Everyone pondered, trying to grasp Mr. Liu’s intent. Suddenly, Qingqing clapped her hands, “Ah, I understand!” Seeing the Emperor’s knowing smile as he sipped his tea, she said, “Your Majesty indeed guessed the answer early on.” The Emperor chuckled, “It’s of no use for me to know; Mr. Liu is testing you.” Qingqing bowed and said, “I have an answer, I’m not sure if it’s correct.” The Emperor encouraged her, “Go ahead.” Qingqing explained, “I believe the second snowman represents the best approach. One should not let matters pass through one ear and out the other, nor should they ignore the people’s concerns. Instead, one should take these matters to heart and keep them in mind.” Everyone agreed that her answer made sense, though it was a simple test they hadn’t initially grasped. Mr. Liu looked as if he had anticipated Qingqing’s answer all along.
The Emperor was pleased, “The daughters of the Lin family have outdone my Crown Prince. Very well, a reward!” As soon as he spoke, an eunuch approached with a box, which the Emperor handed to Qingqing, saying, “Qingqing, this is my gift to you.”
The Imperial Academy (Part One)
Qingqing did not dare to refuse and accepted the gift. The Emperor continued, “From now on, both of Lin’s daughters will study in the palace daily, to also keep company with the princesses.” This was an immense honor, and even Master Lin knelt, saying, “My daughters are not very clever, I fear they might hinder the studies of the princes and princesses.” The Emperor waved it off, “The children of Lin are all clever. It’s just that rules prevent men from casually entering the palace, otherwise, Lin Gongzi could join as well.”
