Time flew quickly, over a month had passed, and Lu Zheng went to the cave twice but did not see the old man again.
He didn't take the stalactite essence, only collected a few bottles of stalactite spring water, returned home, gave some to Zhi Ma for recovery, some to Liu Qingyan, and used some to brew reishi mushroom wine to enhance its effect.
...
By June in the ancient times, Lu Zheng and Liu Qingyan were strolling in the county town, noticing an increasing number of scholars.
"The county examination is about to start."
"I wonder how many scholars Tonglin County will produce this time."
"It's tough, tough, tough. Although it's called a local examination, it's actually magistrates from Lingbei Dao who conduct it, and the requirements aren't low."
"There are quite a few scholars from towns and villages; while they are in the city, we should take this chance to really gouge them."
