Thus, Ma Liang was no stranger to Deng Ai.
Deng Ai was also surprised upon hearing Ma Liang's name. "You are Ma Jichang, one of the Ma Clan's Five Constants? Forgive my discourtesy."
As he spoke, he hurriedly cupped his hands and bowed to Ma Liang.
Of the Ma Clan's Five Constants, the White-Browed One Is the Finest.
Ma Liang enjoyed great renown for his talent. He had skipped primary and middle school and gained admission straight into university, then spent two years honing himself before entering the Imperial Academy with the highest score.
Even in the Imperial Academy, where talented people emerged in abundance, Ma Liang was undoubtedly outstanding. Instructors in many subjects thought highly of him.
"We are fellow students, Brother Shizai. Why stand on ceremony?"
Ma Liang reached out to raise Deng Ai from his bow, invited him into his room, and personally brewed him a cup of tea.
Deng Ai thanked him and accepted the tea. Looking around the room again, he asked, "Brother Jichang, why are you studying and reviewing at an inn? Isn't it noisy?"
Books were piled everywhere in the room, and with the Imperial Academy's graduation examination approaching, it was not hard to guess that Ma Liang was preparing for it.
Ma Liang smiled faintly. "My younger brother is taking this year's Military Examination. I came to keep him company."
"As for the noise, I do not mind. So long as the heart is still, where is there not a place to read?"
Filled with admiration, Deng Ai said, "Your realm of understanding is lofty indeed, Brother Jichang. I cannot match it."
"I too am preparing for the graduation examination. I have not slept well for several days because of it. My heart is truly uneasy, for I do not know whether