Lin Zezu could not help but sigh to himself. Those in ancient times who managed to pass the exams for *xiucai*, *juren*, or *jinshi* were truly no ordinary people, to say nothing of those who attained the rank of top scholar or runner-up.
Fortunately, he had the benefit of the old codger Wang Kan, who had sent over a good number of past examination papers, along with model essays from the top ten students of each session, which Lin Zezu could use for practice. They also helped broaden his perspective, allowing him to discern patterns in their choice of words and classical allusions, saving him from being completely in the dark about how to start.
"All excellence begins with imitation," Lin Zezu resolved.
Chapter 135