Translator: Henyee Translations Editor: Henyee Translations
Eldest Uncle, concerned about Shao Liulangs absence, paid a visit to the third section of the family to inquire about his whereabouts. He approached Third Uncle and Ms. Ma, expressing his desire for Shao Liulang to return so that Yunduan could offer him assistance, Eldest Uncle believed that Yunduan's connections and guidance could potentially help Shao Liulang find success. He held a genuine hope that the two boys could achieve greatness together.
Third Uncle and Ms. Ma, upon hearing Eldest Uncle's words, felt a surge of motivation.
The stark reality they faced left no room for self-deception. They understood the importance of taking action and confronting the challenges ahead.
Reluctantly, Third Uncle and Ms. Ma acknowledged that Shao Liulang could benefit from Shao Yunduan's assistance in his journey forward.
They had privately conveyed this notion to Shao Liulang, but he adamantly refused to accept it. He was unwilling to confront the truth.
Shao Liulang held onto the belief that Shao Yunduan would never genuinely help him. He was convinced that any aid offered would come with strings attached, reducing him to the role of a lowly servant, while Shao Yunduan secretly mocked his efforts.
In his mind, he had resigned himself to the fact that he would never receive genuine support, not even in his wildest dreams.
So he resolutely refused to bow down to Shao Yunduan.
Third Uncle let out a heartfelt sigh, "Liulang is incredibly intelligent and well-read. However, he has encountered misfortune and failed the examination twice. It has left him feeling deeply distressed."
"The success of Yunduan only exacerbates Liulangs sense of guilt and sadness. Elder Brother, you can empathize with his situation. If Liulang were to return now, he would face humiliation. Unless… Yunduan personally goes to retrieve him and aids in building his reputation…"
Eldest Uncle sighed in understanding.
He had a conversation with Shao Yunduan about this matter.
"…Liulang has faced numerous failures in the examinations, and as his cousin, you should understand him and accommodate his temperament. Help him to the best of your ability so that when he achieves success in the future, both of you can support each other… wouldn't that be a marvelous thing?"
"He may appear annoyed, but deep down, he desires to be closer to you. Aid in building his reputation and personally bring him back home. What are your thoughts on this?"
Shao Yunduan smiled. "Dad, if it were Cousin who had succeeded in the examination today, do you think he and his parents would take care of me, understand me, or come to our door to flaunt their success?"
"Do you still remember that when I was falsely accused by the college, he laughed so gleefully, and his parents even advised you to stop my studies because they believed I would never achieve success academically. They even suggested I work in the fields instead!"
"But now that I have become the Provincial Champion, I have never humiliated or mocked him. So why does he feel so humiliated? Why should I go and coddle him, flatter him? It all seems rather peculiar!"
Eldest Uncle felt a sense of humiliation. "How can you say that… You are the
Provincial Champion, and you can show inclusivity…" "But I am not going to lower myself for him. He is not deserving of it."
"Dad, just let go of everything and enjoy your happiness!
Eldest Uncle stood there in silence, unable to utter a word as he watched his son walk away. He sighed deeply, feeling a profound sense of hurt. Why was there no one who understood him? He meant no harm. All he wanted was for everyone to do well.
Yunduan was experiencing success now, and he had a good chance of advancing further in the spring examination. He even had a supportive father-in-law who could assist him on his journey. A bright future awaited him!
He had everything he needed.. But why couldn't he show inclusivity and encourage Liulang to strive harder? Why get caught up in trivial matters?