In his youth, Ning Fangsheng had passed the provincial examinations in the Qian State but had never gone to the imperial capital to continue with the higher levels.
"Elder Ning, that is a harsh statement. The Great Yan previously had no imperial examinations; this was our failing, and we have wronged scholars like you."
"Your Majesty, you speak too gravely."
Minister Ning instantly knelt.
"Enough, enough. Rise, Elder Ning. What I mean is that I plan to establish the imperial examination system next year, and I hope you will oversee it. As for this Memorandum of Resignation, please take it back for now. Elder Ning, you know my temperament. I truly have no patience for the whole charade of repeated invitations and refusals."
"This servant, on behalf of all scholars of Great Yan, thanks Your Majesty for this profound grace!"
Minister Ning reached out to take back the Memorandum of Resignation he had previously submitted.
