Eastern Han Dynasty, not the Three Kingdoms

The next day, the sun was shining brightly, and Cai Yong and Guan Ning went to Lu Zhi's residence together to visit their old friend.

When Lu Zhi saw them, a delighted smile appeared on his face, and he quickly went to greet them, "Brother Yong, Brother Ning, why are you here together?"

Cai Yong smiled and said, "Brother Lu, we have heard that Ma Chao is an exceptional child, so we have come to visit today to meet this legendary young talent."

Guan Ning also nodded and agreed, "Yes, Brother Lu, we also want to test his knowledge of the Four Books and Five Classics to see how talented he is."

After hearing this, Lu Zhi was very happy. He was also quite confident in Ma Chao's talent, so he took them to the hall.

When Ma Chao saw Cai Yong and Guan Ning, he bowed respectfully.

Cai Yong smiled and nodded slightly, his eyes revealing gentleness and admiration. He said softly to Ma Chao, "Ma Chao, I heard that you are quite knowledgeable about the Four Books and Five Classics. Seeing you today, I can see that you are indeed an extraordinary person. I wonder what your opinion is on the line from the Analects, 'To learn and to practice what one has learned is a delight, isn't it?'"

Ma Chao lowered his head slightly in thought for a moment, his eyes firm and focused. Then he raised his head and replied confidently, "Sir, I think this sentence emphasizes the importance of learning. Continuous learning and timely review can bring people joy and satisfaction."

Guan Ning stood tall, his hands clasped behind his back. His gaze held a hint of anticipation as he continued, "Well, that's a unique perspective. So, what are your thoughts on the Mencius verse, 'When Heaven is about to confer a great responsibility on a man, it will first test his mind and will, and toil his muscles and bones.'"

Ma Chao's expression was resolute, his hands clenched into fists, as if expressing his inner resolve. He replied, "I think this sentence tells us that those who want to achieve great things must endure various trials and tribulations and strengthen their will and body."

The admiration in Cai Yong's eyes grew stronger. He patted Ma Chao on the shoulder, nodded in praise, and said, "Very good, very good. It's rare for you to have such a profound understanding. So, how do you understand the 'cultivation of self, regulation of family, governance of state, and peace under heaven' in the Great Learning?"

Ma Chao frowned slightly, lost in thought. After a moment, a look of relief crossed his face, and he replied, "Sir, as I understand it, 'self-cultivation' is fundamental. Only with high moral character can one manage a family well and, in turn, contribute to the country and the world."

Guan Ning's face also showed a hint of a smile. He took a step forward, and with a tone of affirmation, he asked, "Very good. Then, do you have your own experience with the 'moderation' mentioned in the 'Doctrine of the Mean'?"

Ma Chao straightened up, his eyes gleaming with determination and wisdom, and replied, "As I understand it, the way of 'neutrality' is to maintain inner balance and harmony, and to act impartially and appropriately."

Cai Yong and Guan Ning smiled at each other. Cai Yong folded his arms across his chest and said with satisfaction, "Ma Chao, your answer satisfies us greatly. It's truly rare for someone of your age to possess such profound insights. You must continue to work hard and never slack off."

Ma Chao bowed respectfully and replied sincerely, "Thank you both for your guidance, gentlemen. I will definitely keep it in mind and live up to your expectations."

Next, Cai Yong and Guan Ning took turns asking questions. Ma Chao was quick-witted and answered fluently. His answers were clear and insightful, which made Cai Yong and Guan Ning nod in praise frequently.

After the exam, Cai Yong praised him, saying, "Ma Chao, your talent is truly extraordinary. Given time, you will surely become a great man."

Guan Ning also smiled and said, "Brother Lu, your disciple is truly a rare talent and lovable."

Lu Zhi's face was filled with a proud smile. "Ma Chao is not only a child of outstanding talent and learning, but also of noble character. He is truly a man of great potential."

Ma Chao said gratefully, "Thank you both for your compliments. I will definitely work harder and live up to your expectations."

In the following time, Cai Yong and Guan Ning had a very pleasant conversation with Ma Chao. They shared many experiences and insights in studying, and Ma Chao benefited a lot.

Time passed quietly as the host and guest got along happily and had a great conversation.

Cai Yong smiled, patted Ma Chao on the shoulder, and said kindly, "Ma Chao, I am truly delighted to speak with you today. Your intelligence and talent are truly impressive. If you have free time in the future, please come to my home often. We can discuss knowledge together and we will surely benefit from it."

Guan Ning nodded in agreement, his eyes gleaming with admiration. "Ma Chao, you have unique insights and a quick mind. You are truly a rare talent. I welcome you to visit my home often. We can learn from each other and make progress together."

Upon hearing this, Ma Chao was filled with joy. He quickly bowed and said gratefully, "Thank you both for your kindness and appreciation. I, Ma Chao, am deeply honored. I will certainly visit you often in the future to seek your guidance."

Cai Yong laughed heartily, "You're welcome. You're so eager to learn, you'll definitely become a great man in the future."

Guan Ning also smiled and said, "Ma Chao, your talent and hard work are beyond the reach of ordinary people. I hope you can maintain your original aspirations and keep making progress."

Ma Chao thanked them again: "I will definitely remember your teachings and live up to your expectations."

Afterwards, Cai Yong and Guan Ning said goodbye to Lu Zhi and left with admiration for Ma Chao.

After the two men left, Lu Zhi looked at Ma Chao with a pleased smile on his face. He said slowly, "Ma Chao, what happened today was actually intentional on my part."

Ma Chao was slightly startled, a hint of doubt in his expression. He stared at Lu Zhi and asked softly, "Master, why did you arrange it this way?"

Lu Zhi sighed softly and continued, "Although I have considerable experience in government affairs and military management, I am not a top scholar in the true knowledge of the Four Books and Five Classics. However, you are gifted and have a deep understanding of the Four Books and Five Classics. I firmly believe that you will make great achievements in this area."

Lu Zhi paused, then looked at Ma Chao with a determined gaze. "I recommend you to the circle of scholars because I hope you can make friends with wise and virtuous people there, learn from them, and make progress together, thereby gaining a reputation and laying a solid foundation for your future development."

Upon hearing this, Ma Chao was deeply moved, tears glistening in his eyes. He said with a choked voice, "Master, you have truly spared no effort for me. I am deeply grateful! Without your careful cultivation and support, I would hardly have the opportunity I have today."

Lu Zhi smiled, patted Ma Chao's shoulder, and said earnestly, "You and I are master and apprentice, just like father and son. I have high hopes for you and will naturally do my best to help you. I see your talent and hard work, and I believe you will surely make a name for yourself among the scholars."

Ma Chao nodded solemnly, his eyes filled with determination. "Master, rest assured. I will live up to your expectations, study hard, and continuously improve my knowledge and cultivation. I will repay your kindness with concrete actions and bring honor to you!"

Lu Zhi looked at Ma Chao with eyes full of love and expectation. He believed that Ma Chao would definitely become an outstanding talent.