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墨書 Inktalez
The Qintian Observatory was enveloped in silence.
Seated in the main position, Lord Zhang held a volume of celestial records, his brow furrowed. Hearing footsteps, he looked up to see Liu Ying entering. "Have you brought the observation records from last night?"
"Yes, my lord," Liu Ying replied, respectfully presenting a notebook she had taken from her sleeve.
Lord Zhang accepted it and began to flip through the pages, his gaze lingering on a particular section for quite some time. Suddenly, he asked, "You mentioned that there were unusual movements in the Purple Forbidden Enclosure; is this what you are referring to?" He pointed to a passage in the notebook.
Liu Ying stepped forward for a closer look and nodded. "Indeed. At the third watch of the night, I observed a guest star entering the Purple Forbidden Enclosure, accompanied by strange colors swirling about. According to astronomical calculations, there may be significant changes ahead."
"Hmm." Lord Zhang pondered for a moment. "Your observation aligns with Zhao Mingyuan's records; he also noted this anomaly."
Upon hearing Zhao Mingyuan's name, Liu Ying's expression shifted slightly. Though he was a few years older than her, they often found themselves in silent competition over their astronomical calculations. She hadn't expected him to observe the same phenomenon this time.
"What do you think this anomaly signifies?" Liu Ying asked cautiously.
Lord Zhang set down the notebook, his expression serious. "There are already rumors in court suggesting that this year's Top Scholar will surely come from the north. Do you think there is any truth to that?"
Liu Ying felt a chill run down her spine. The imperial examination was always of great importance; while the Qintian Observatory did not participate directly, any related prophecy could have far-reaching consequences. She considered her words carefully before responding, "Though the celestial phenomena are unusual, their specific implications require further analysis. However…" she paused, "if it pertains to the imperial examination, it is certainly possible."
"Do not speak of this matter publicly for now," Lord Zhang advised firmly. "There has been too much gossip in the capital lately; the Qintian Observatory must not become embroiled in it."
"Understood," Liu Ying replied but noticed Lord Zhang retrieving another document from his desk.
"This is a new edict from His Majesty," Lord Zhang said, his tone significant as he looked at Liu Ying. "The Qintian Observatory is tasked with selecting an auspicious date around Qixi for calculating marriage prospects for unmarried women of suitable age in the capital."
Liu Ying was taken aback. "My lord, this… but this is a matter of state; I fear I may not be able to…"
"Your skills in astronomical calculations are well recognized throughout the Qintian Observatory," Lord Zhang interrupted her. "Moreover, your expertise in Qimen Dunjia makes you the most suitable for this task."
Liu Ying was about to decline again when hurried footsteps echoed outside. Zhao Mingyuan rushed in and merely nodded at Liu Ying before addressing Lord Zhang directly. "My lord, we have observed another anomaly; Tai Bai has appeared during the day!"
"What?" Lord Zhang sprang to his feet. "Are you certain?"
"Absolutely," Zhao Mingyuan replied gravely. "Furthermore, Tai Bai's light is unusual; it appears blood-red. This is an omen of great change!"
Liu Ying felt a stir within her. The daytime appearance of Tai Bai had always been an important omen in astronomical lore. Coupled with last night's observations… She instinctively glanced out the window where a star flickered faintly in the morning light—it was Venus.
"Prepare immediately; I want to see detailed analysis results before noon," Lord Zhang instructed in a low voice. "Also, keep this matter under wraps for now."
As Liu Ying exited the Council Hall, her mind remained unsettled. Two consecutive anomalies and the impending marriage calculations seemed to signal something significant ahead. What fate awaited her under that shimmering star?
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