Pages 286-296 Summary

After only a short time, the results of the palace exam are posted. Chen ranks at the very top of the list, a position called Hui-Yuan, or "top graduate." He attends a great banquet hosted by the emperor where the top ranked scholars receive their diploma from the Minister if Rites. As top graduate, however, Chen is handed his diploma by the emperor himself. On the same day, Ni Fenglin is found assassinated.

As the top graduate, Chen is offered a number of official positions. He considers taking a position as a magistrate, but Hong tells him that he cannot imagine Chen handing out punishment to anyone. Chen is patient in considering his options, while Hong is impatient, convinced that Chen will never make up his mind. Finally, Chen is invited to meet with Tang Wangai, who tells him that Wei...