[He’s the villain in family drama stories, the obstacle in pampering romance novels, and the example of what not to do in imperial examination tales]
Your father joined the army and became a marquis, but the marchioness isn’t your mother. What to do?
Your stepmother seems to be a transmigrator, gentle and virtuous but actually wants to spoil you rotten. What to do?
Your grandmother is biased and opportunistic, wanting you to give up your position as the eldest legitimate son. What to do?
While preparing for the imperial exams, relatives cause all sorts of trouble, hoping you’ll fail. What to do?
— All these answers can be found in “A Complete Explanation of the Negative Textbooks for the Imperial Examinations.” This book covers modules on family disputes, imperial exam difficulties, official career troubles, and rules for powerful officials. It’s suitable for exam candidates aspiring to become villainous high-ranking officials. With this book in hand, you’ll conquer the exams. If it doesn’t teach you, we offer a full refund!
Later, when noble families educate their children, they always use Xiao Jingduo as an example: “Study hard and don’t go astray. Don’t be like him; don’t disgrace the words of the sages.”
People’s opinions of Xiao Jingduo are mixed. His most criticized trait is his apparent lack of scholarly integrity, willingly serving as the Regent Princess’s blade and dedicating his life to her.
Later, Xiao Jingduo marries the Regent Princess.
Court officials: “…No wonder!”
