Chapter 190: House in the Prefecture
Translator: Henyee Translations Editor: Henyee Translations
After the rankings were announced, the governor hosted another poetry recital, specifically for the Cultivated Talents of the year. The governor revealed the names of the Best Performers, and interestingly, only five of them managed to secure positions in the top ten of the institutional examination.
These top five performers received remarkable rewards. Not only did they receive a bonus from the governmental office, but they were also granted free admission to the prestigious prefectural school. Additionally, they were provided with a monthly living allowance. This meant that if they managed their expenses wisely, they wouldn’t need to burden their families with the cost of studying in the abbey.
Among the Best Performers, Su Bin secured the first rank, which was an impressive achievement. He held the top position on the Double List, which entitled him to receive the highest bonus of 100 liang. Moreover, in the county, he was entitled to an additional 50 liang. His exceptional intelligence allowed him to earn money by being a top student in ancient times, and this was indeed a fortunate advantage.
Adding to Su Bin’s resources, he had an additional 200 liang, thanks to a payment he received from that woman from brothel. Having 200 liang in his possession was no small sum.
Su Bin accompanied Qin Zhenzhen as they inspected the house and provided helpful references. Eventually, when both of them were content with the choice, Qin Zhenzhen made up her mind to purchase the property.
To proceed with the purchase, Su Bin offered his money to Qin Zhenzhen and said, “Use my money to buy the house.”
However, Qin Zhenzhen disagreed with the idea and replied, “You should keep your money for your studies.”
Su Bin explained, “I am studying at the prefectural school, and I don’t need to worry about tuition fees. Moreover, I receive a monthly allowance, so it won’t burden me much.”
He also shared his plan of not living in the academy but instead residing at home, which was conveniently close to the abbey. At the academy, two people typically shared one room, so living at home would provide a more comfortable arrangement.
Although Qin Zhenzhen was aware that Su Bin would not return to the Marquis Mansion, she was still taken aback to learn about his decision to study in the academy.
Any college in the capital is better than the one here. Also, if you are the Young
Master of the Marquis Mansion. you are qualified to join the Roval College.”
“The teachers from the Royal College are all from the Hanlin Academy. Are you sure you don’t want to study in the capital?”
Su Bin shook his head firmly, stating, “Even if we make peace with them, I plan to study in the prefectural school. I can waive the tuition fees and get subsidies. I don’t need to owe anyone anything.”
Concerning the idea of putting on a show together, he pointed out the practicality of their separate living arrangements, asking, “We live separately, how can we work together?”
Qin Zhenzhen was taken aback, realizing that there must be a significant reason behind Su Bin’s decision not to go to the capital to study.
Su Bin continued, reflecting on his father’s advice, “Even if you want to keep me company in the capital, I will have to think about it. My father told me to work hard and make a name for myself, and I will bear that in mind.”
Curiosity still lingering, Qin Zhenzhen asked him about his brothers and sisters, questioning whether he would allow them to go to the capital.
Su Bin responded, “I won’t force them, but I think they will remember what father said.”
With that response, Qin Zhenzhen found herself unable to say anything more on the matter.
She had no intention of accompanying Su Bin to the capital, firmly deciding against it. However, she still did not want to accept Su Bin’s money. “Then give your money to your brother and sister,” she suggested.
Upon hearing this, Su Bin’s expression darkened. “Are you trying to get rid of me now?” he asked defensively.
Seeing his reaction, Qin Zhenzhen had to find a compromise. “Then we can share half,” she proposed, asking for 100 liang from Su Bin.
Although Su Bin did not ask for his name to be included on the house, Qin Zhenzhen added it anyway. As she was married into the Su Family, she couldn’t open an account to buy a house alone, nor could she put the house under her name. Her only options were to include her husband’s name or her mother’s name.
Since she needed to make use of Su Bin’s identity, she couldn’t argue with him on this matter. She understood that Su Bin insisted on paying because he didn’t insist on having his name on the house. However, she couldn’t fully comprehend his true intentions..