Since returning from the picnic, Bai Shuzhi had also paid a visit, and Wenheng had tagged along to a few gatherings.
As they got to know each other, Wenheng learned that Bai Shuzhi was an authentic southern scholar. His home was only a day's journey from Sea City, where Wenheng's family had previously lived.
Bai Shuzhi's family were well-known wealthy merchants in their local area. He had come to participate in this special imperial examination without much confidence in his chances.
In his own words, he was here to broaden his horizons, gain some experience, and hopefully pass the next examination to become an Advanced Scholar.
Wenheng was stunned when he heard this. 'This is basically a mock exam from the future,' he thought. 'Except the stakes are much higher—this guy is using a special imperial examination for practice!'
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