Chapter 8, Cui's words wounded self-esteem

Now, Awu has learned these things from the Cui family. With her abilities, how could she not manage the two of them? Under the combination of grace and power, Zishan naturally submitted. It is also because Ziyan and Zishan are still just young girls; Ziyan is only thirteen, and Zishan is merely ten.

Cui took a deep breath, called out to Awu, bid farewell to his family, and sat in the carriage with Awu without speaking a word along the way

Cui Zhixing stroked his beard and said, "My dear girl, you are aware that I married you off to the third master of the Duke's residence, and all the silver in the household was used to prepare your dowry. Now, it happens that it has been three years since your father took the examinations, and all the connections in the capital need to be arranged. Once we get past this hurdle, I will return to Qingzhou and make arrangements for you."

Awu mainly wants to find if there are any contemporary writings produced by Xu Lizhai, as well as the articles he wrote when he served as a seat instructor for the imperial examination in the fifteenth year of the Longqing era. Additionally, she needs to look at the articles from recent years as she has not engaged with these for a long time and needs to familiarize herself again. Although she once took an interest in the art of contemporary writing and received praise from her teacher, it was ultimately not something a woman should pursue, and she only studied it for a little over a year before giving it up.

"That won't do, if my wife finds out, she will hit me." Rong Zhen did not seem to be easily fooled.

Upon seeing Cui's hesitation, Cui Zhixing smiled without pressing further. He had already inquired about the situation of the Duke of Anguo's residence during his time in the capital and felt that marrying off a daughter was a loss, offering no assistance whatsoever. Now, witnessing her demeanor, he understood even more clearly.

Rong Jie has a serious temperament and is not easily deceived, so A Wu turned his attention to Rong Yan.

Thus, in the end, Awu dismissed all the serving maids in her courtyard, and after running about ten laps with the rabbit lantern, exclaiming in delight, she finally came to a stop. Of course, in front of others, she resumed her dignified demeanor.

On the evening of the sixteenth, Mrs. Cui, along with her two sisters-in-law, planned to go for a stroll to cure ailments. However, Ah Wu was still too young, and her delicate appearance resembled that of the jade maiden beside the Guanyin goddess, which made them worry that she might accidentally get lost, causing great distress. Naturally, Mrs. Cui was unwilling to take her out under any circumstances.

Awu was furious, wishing she could slap him, but she knew she could not. Cui likely sensed this as well, so she sent Awu away and had Ziyan take her to play in the western corner, not daring to let her go too far for fear that she might be bullied without her being able to see.

Only Cui Zhixing's words put the Cui family in a difficult position. They know their own family's affairs; not to mention that their uncle and the others are of no help, even if they could assist, they might not be willing to do so. As for the old master, he has not been involved in affairs for many years, and they do not dare to trouble him. As for her husband, it is even more unnecessary to mention; Master Rong San does not hold a favorable view of this old father-in-law's way of governing, considering him greedy, contemptible, slick, and cunning.

"I can't help but want to see what kind of flowery and ornate articles you all usually create," said Awu, pouting. This action, combined with her soft and plump round face, was exceedingly adorable, and Rongjie could hardly refuse his little sister. Even when Awu was as unremarkable as before, they cherished her like a treasure, let alone the current Awu.

You?" Rong Jie smiled and said, "Are you looking for a tracing book? You are still young, and you must not go out by yourself. If you need any books, just tell your brother, and he will find them for you.

You young girl, at such a tender age, what are you reading those contemporary writings for? This is not something you should be looking at. If you find it boring, you might as well read some poetry or play with your sisters.

Awu enjoys such lively occasions even more and is increasingly determined to preserve the vibrancy of the Duke of An's residence.

Originally, Awu did not intend to intervene in Rong Jichang's examination matters, believing that it was a national talent selection event that should not be marred by fraud. After all, it was her uncle's domain, and she naturally leaned towards that side, thus she had not made any preparations.

Cui's family hesitated for a moment, only intending to return and discuss it with the father-in-law. Amidst countless difficulties, they finally mustered the courage to express their intentions. Even Ah Wu, who was listening from behind, felt embarrassed, unable to believe that their household had fallen to such a dire state, having to ask Cui the governor for money to spend.

Compared to the subtle and shy demeanor of the Cui family, my grandfather was straightforward and direct: "Young lady, you know that your father has gone to the capital this time for the examination. Could you possibly ask your husband to think of a way to ensure that your father can remain in his original position?"

Rong Jie got up to fetch for A Wu, while A Wu stayed behind him, saying, "Alright, Fifth Brother, I will find it myself."

Cui was on the verge of tears upon hearing this; she thought that Awu was merely saying it to comfort her, yet she already felt a sense of relief in her heart. Unexpectedly, Awu was far from just speaking casually.

Fortunately, my own Awu has finally grown up, and now she is becoming increasingly well-mannered. In terms of etiquette, even the palace matrons praise her without reservation. Her ability to navigate social interactions has also improved significantly, managing everything in her quarters smoothly, even the little troublemaker, Zishan, has become obedient.

Rong Jie lightly tapped Awu's forehead. Awu instinctively wanted to flinch; she had a peculiar habit of disliking being touched by others and was extremely fastidious about cleanliness. Nowadays, apart from occasionally approaching the Cui family, she would never allow anyone else to touch her. However, due to her current needs, she endured it this time.

"My cousin is really adorable," said Cousin Cui Er with a cheerful smile

Awu felt anxious inside, deliberately brewing her emotions, and soon tears began to flow, presenting a look of having suffered a great injustice

One person counts as short, while two people count as long. Indeed, the two of them found an opportunity, which was the Lantern Festival. During the Lantern Festival, there is a custom for women to walk to dispel ailments, and the Cui family would also attend that day. With no adults at home to supervise, Awu could seize the chance to go out with Rongzhen.

In fact, the Cui family was not unaware of the matter regarding Ziyan and Zishan from the beginning. It was just that she had only these two maids and their family firmly in her grasp, and she felt at ease only by placing them in the Awuwu. Therefore, she did not mention replacing them, but frequently reprimanded the two. However, despite this, the former identity of Awuwu was still unable to suppress the subordinates.

After the New Year, Rong Jichang personally made three lanterns for his three children. Awu received a rabbit lantern, with red eyes and a three-petal mouth, exquisitely crafted. It had four legs with wheels, allowing it to be pulled along. For Awu, who grew up in a wealthy family, this ordinary rabbit lantern from a common household was a truly novel experience

On the second day, Awu sought out Rongjie, insisting that he show her the collection of contemporary essays, which consisted entirely of the current examination-style essays.

It is a pity that Rong Jichang does not appreciate the ornate writings favored by Xu Lizhai, and the books selected for Rong Jie do not include them. Awu felt a bit disappointed, gazing into Rong Jie's eyes, and thought of finding an excuse to encourage Rong Jie to visit the bookstore and search for them.

However, nowadays, the situation for the San family is extremely difficult. Rong Si has also made those remarks, and A Wu must inevitably consider the future. A person without long-term concerns will surely face immediate worries. Moreover, Rong Jichang is not without talent; he is merely unappreciated. In terms of both talent and character, he is truly exceptional.

Ah Wu is not infatuated; her heart has already "followed" Rong Zhen.

Awu recently acquired a lamp and initially wanted to run with it, but upon reflection, she realized that this was not in line with her ladylike demeanor. After all, she was once the most esteemed noblewoman in the capital, known for her talent and grace, the model of elegance that everyone emulated, the esteemed Princess Kangning.

Here, Cui Zhixing also sent away two grandsons. The Cui family sat down on a row of chairs to the left of Cui Zhixing, inquired about the well-being of the lady of the house, and upon hearing that all was well, they exchanged some trivialities before concluding the conversation

"Fifth Brother, when you go to the bookstore, could you take me along as well? I would like to find a few books too." Awu opened her big, watery eyes, making good use of her advantage in appearance, her expression becoming increasingly innocent and carefree

As for Cousin Cui, although he pretended to be older, his eyes seemed to be glued to Awu, and that gaze made Awu feel quite uncomfortable. However, Cui Huaiyu was already fourteen years old, his grandfather was a magistrate, and he was considered one of the most prominent figures among the younger generation in Qingzhou. He had already been teased about matters between men and women, and having read some idle books, he was aware of the romantic affairs between cousins. His gaze towards Awu carried a hint of scrutiny and criticism; although he appeared somewhat younger, he was still quite satisfied with her in other respects.

Awu could not sit still in the west corner, signaling to Ziyan with her eyes to remain silent, while she leaned on the window lattice to listen carefully to the conversation of the three people, including the Cui family.

This statement left Cui feeling utterly humiliated. She rarely spoke up, and now she had been rejected. Cui was well aware of the situation at home; the wealth of the Cui family was such that, not to mention covering her own dowry, even if there were ten more like her, the dowry would still be insufficient. It was clear that they were unwilling to help, and there was an underlying threat: if he could not succeed in Qingzhou, he would likely face legal troubles.

On this day, Rong Sheng came to visit A Wu. She complained while holding the small trinket that Rong Sheng had given her: "The things my brother gives me are all things that you boys like. How about you take me to choose something for myself one day?" A Wu tugged at Rong Sheng's collar.

During the New Year, Rong Jichang naturally returned home, and the family was lively and cheerful. On New Year's Eve, Awu joined her brothers in setting off firecrackers and watching fireworks, creating a festive atmosphere. She had never had this opportunity when she was younger; at that time, she was frail and could not withstand the thunderous sounds of the firecrackers, so she would be locked inside the house, wrapped up in her blanket.

Awu sat with her head lowered, her small hand gently stroking the hand that Cui had placed on her knee, causing a pang of emotion in Cui's heart. She was also a strong-willed person; had it not been for her husband and children, she would not have dared to speak to her father. She never expected that familial affection could be so weak.

Rong Yan was completely swayed by Awu's well-reasoned arrangements, nodding repeatedly without realizing that she was being led by the nose by Awu, believing instead that it was her own idea.

Cui Zhixing and Cui Liren glanced at Awu, but did not say much. However, those two cousins were still quite young; upon seeing Awu, they were overjoyed. The younger one, who appeared to be no more than ten years old, reached out to pinch Awu's cheeks, but fortunately, she managed to dodge quickly

In the second month of the year, the spring examination is approaching, and time is rather tight. Awu is uncertain whether she can compose a piece of eight-legged essay that meets Xu Lizhai's standards within such a short period. However, she does have her advantages; at the very least, she has more time to write and revise than those candidates who are preparing for the examination.

She is most aware of the virtues of the entire Cui family.

This remark caused Awu to regard him with a higher level of esteem; this Prefect Cui is indeed a self-aware individual, understanding the depths of the capital. A small shrimp like him cannot make a splash, and it is better to remain in Qingzhou where he can live freely, with benefits not inferior to those of officials in the capital. He does not seek a transfer to other more prosperous provinces, which does not appear greedy. No wonder he has been able to stand firm for decades without faltering

Rong Jichang, having repeatedly failed in his own endeavors, placed even greater emphasis on the education of his son, Rong Jie. At the outset of Rong Jie's studies in the arts, Master Rong selected several exemplary contemporary writings he had encountered for him to study, and he also added a considerable number of new books for his learning.

Rong Yan could hardly bear this, hurriedly wiping away A Wu's tears, "Alright, alright, brother will think of a way."

"Mother, do not worry, everything will be fine." Awu comforted Cui.

Currently, Awu has not yet grown tall, her body is short and stout, and her forehead just reaches the edge of the table. Even so, she still wants to find a book by herself, which makes Rong Jie smile. Watching her struggle while trying to maintain a ladylike demeanor as she attempts to climb onto the chair, Awu's cuteness overwhelms Rong Jie with affection. She reaches out and lifts Awu onto the chair, saying, "Alright, alright, you can flip through it yourself, I will place the current literature on the table for you."

This Prefect Cui, known as Awu, is somewhat aware that after turning over in his position as prefect for a term, he has not seen any promotion, yet his position remains extremely stable. Later, even amidst the competition among several dragons, he was able to navigate the situation skillfully. When the new emperor ascended the throne, he was even transferred to serve in the Jiangsu and Zhejiang regions.