Tang Jing offers mint candy during provincial exam interview
Tang Jing, a candidate in a provincial civil service examination, offered a mint candy to a competitor during the interview waiting period.
The interaction occurred in a waiting room as candidates prepared for the drawing of lots. The recipient of the candy, who claimed to see supernatural “bullet comments” warning that the candy could swap intelligence and eloquence, did not consume the mint. Instead, the candidate hid the green-wrapped candy in a sleeve after pretending to eat it.
A history of competition between Tang Jing and the protagonist
The tension between the two candidates stems from previous academic interactions. The protagonist noted that they attended the same interview training class, where the protagonist scored 91 points on a simulation while Tang Jing scored 78.
Records of their previous encounters include an incident where Tang Jing borrowed the protagonist’s answer notes and subsequently claimed to have lost them. Shortly after, Tang Jing used those same case studies during a full-scale simulation, receiving praise from instructors for her rapid progress. At that time, Tang Jing attributed her performance to the quality of the teaching.
Stakes for the single available position
The interview process is for a position that only accepts one candidate. During the exchange, Tang Jing suggested that the protagonist might have to retake the exam next year, a comment the protagonist interpreted as a lack of goodwill.
The protagonist identified two distinct threats to their success in the examination: Tang Jing’s alleged use of unconventional methods to secure an advantage and a male candidate in the waiting room, described as the son of a local district deputy chief.
The candy exchange attempt
Tang Jing repeatedly urged the protagonist to eat the mint to “relax” before the drawing of lots. The protagonist declined to eat it immediately, stating they would wait until just before their number was called for maximum effect. Tang Jing initially dismissed the idea of the candy having any medicinal effect, but she remained close to the protagonist throughout the wait.
As the staff began verifying the drawing box, the protagonist used the movement of drinking water to conceal the candy inside a sleeve. The protagonist then noted the coolness of the mint to Tang Jing, who appeared relieved that the candy had been accepted.
Questions regarding the exam interview
What happened to the mint candy?
The protagonist did not eat the candy. Instead, they tucked the green-wrapped mint into their sleeve while pretending to consume it during a sip of water.
How many people are being hired for this role?
The protagonist confirmed that the specific job posting is only recruiting one person.
What was the previous score difference between the candidates?
During a training simulation, the protagonist earned 91 points, while Tang Jing earned 78 points.
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