Chapter 416: The Crown Prince’s Vicious Plan
In ancient times, the selection of a new Primus was governed by four essential criteria.
The first requirement revolved around physical appearance; the candidate needed to possess a handsome countenance. A pleasing appearance was highly regarded and often added extra points to one’s candidacy. When the newly chosen Primus rode into the capital on a stately horse, it was common for many women to become enamored. The new Primus was frequently considered a potential suitor for the princess.
Su Bin’s appearance fully satisfied this initial condition.
The second condition pertained to the candidate’s ability to articulate thoughts eloquently. The individual had to be exceptionally well-spoken. Su Bin also fulfilled this requirement, as he displayed his eloquence while explaining his answers to the Emperor earlier.
The third stipulation revolved around the candidate’s handwriting; beautiful penmanship could also garner additional points.
The fourth condition assessed the candidate’s literary capabilities.
Su Bin met all four criteria and was deemed a worthy selection.
Su Bin was taken aback by his appointment as the Primus, and he felt a surge of excitement.
As the new Primus, he could gain direct entry into the Hanlin Academy, securing a position as a fourth-rank official. Provided he steered clear of errors, he stood a strong chance of advancement, with a 99% likelihood of remaining in the capital. This position would greatly benefit his efforts to support the Third Prince and undermine the Crown Prince. Additionally, it would enable him to finally work towards his father’s well-being.
With his newfound strength, Su Bin could convey to the Old Marquis that he no longer needed to rely solely on his status as the Marquis Mansion’s heir to attain a position of prominence.
What made him the happiest was that he could spend his wedding night with his beloved wife!
Su Bin put on a red robe, a mask, and a Primus hat. There was a big red flower on his chest as he rode a tall horse out of the palace. Behind him were the second and the third.
In front of them, officials were beating gongs and drums.
In the capital, the streets filled with people who had rushed out of their homes to witness the commotion. Among the onlookers, the girls and newly-wedded wives were particularly enthusiastic.
The allure was the common knowledge that every Primus was a handsome man. Upon seeing Su Bin’s true appearance, the crowd’s excitement reached a fever pitch. Some even hurriedly spread the news:
“The new Primus has arrived in the capital!”
“Come and catch a glimpse, the new Primus is astonishingly handsome!”
“He’s like a figure from a painting.”
“The lucky girl who marries this Primus must be truly blessed.” Amid the chatter, one voice chimed in with amusement:
“Are you living under a rock? The new Primus is Su Bin, and he’s already married!”
“His wife, Qin Zhenzhen, is a renowned divine doctor who once cured the Empress Dowager’s persistent headache.”
“Su Bin himself has an esteemed background. His father was once the heir of the Marquis Mansion.”
“The two of them are truly a match made in heaven.”
“People with daughters can only watch in envy and jealousy of the new Primus.’
The Crown Prince harbored a deep sense of discontent over Su Bin’s appointment as the new Primus. As he contemplated Qin Zhenzhen’s enchanting presence, he plotted a devious scheme.
He commenced by presenting a portrait of Su Bin to his fifth sister, who shared the same mother with him.
“Fifth Sister, what do you make of this man?”
Upon laying eyes on Su Bin’s likeness, the fifth princess was captivated by a certain aspect, her cheeks flushing crimson. She had never encountered such a strikingly handsome man in her life.
“Who is he?”
The Crown Prince couldn’t conceal his delight. He was well aware that showcasing Su Bin’s portrait to his fifth sister would elicit her fascination. He knew that Fifth Sister held a particular penchant for handsome men.
Despite being born from the same mother, the Third Prince’s superior looks had overshadowed him. Consequently, Fifth Sister often chose to play with the Third Prince rather than pay heed to her own biological brother.
The Crown Prince had even enlisted the assistance of one of the girls close to Fifth Sister, who had revealed that Fifth Sister had clandestinely stashed away several pictures of handsome men..