Chapter 2The Firebrand Scholar: Trading the Scaffold for the Summit

Amelia’s apartment was a rented two-bedroom.

The room with the best sunlight was always reserved for Skylar.

I walked into the room, seeing all the familiar items of the original owner.

The Suttons favored Brooke.

But Amelia clearly favored Skylar.

Regardless of wealth, motherly love was equally precious.

I flipped through a stack of books on the desk, my heart warming slightly.

In my past life, I was a farm girl. I learned by listening outside the classroom window while I tended the cows.

I went through countless hardships, borrowing someone else's identity to take the Imperial Examinations.

I had a photographic memory, a true prodigy.

My only failure was being born a woman.

In my past life, even when I topped the exams, I was disguised as a man.

In this life, I could finally study openly.

I will make my name, Skylar Hayes, legitimately top the charts.

No matter the obstacles ahead, I will master every single book.

Nothing will stop my ascent to the summit.