Font Size:
Shen Youfu observed Shen Zi’an and Su Zhi with the three children seated on the edge of the kang, while the couple themselves stood politely to the side. He didn’t perceive his son and daughter-in-law as particularly respectful; he sensed their distance and lack of closeness. Their refusal to sit in his presence, despite their courteous demeanor, only highlighted their detachment.
Reflecting on this, Shen Youfu harbored a dislike for his son, who had never been close to him since childhood, and for his daughter-in-law, who had brought gossip to the family and later compelled Shen Zi’an to separate. However, despite his disapproval, they were living the best among his children, forcing him to maintain a certain level of decorum, especially considering the task he had for them. As Shen Youfu attempted to smile at Shen Zi’an and the others, his face, unaccustomed to smiling at his son for many years, appeared somewhat strained. Seeing Yueyue’s round, wide eyes fixed on him, he found it difficult to continue smiling and reverted to his usual expressionless demeanor.
Upon hearing Shen Zi’an’s inquiry about the reason for their gathering, Shen Youfu spoke up.
“Zi’an, I heard Li Zheng has spoken to you about the Rain Worship Festival, selecting these three children as young participants. Is that correct?”
Shen Zi’an replied, “Yes, that’s what Li Zheng mentioned. However, the final selection will need to be made again.”
The additional selection process involved Li Zheng taking the chosen young participants and the Rain Goddess to the town, where the village head and esteemed individuals from various areas would collectively choose one Rain Goddess and nine young participants from each village.
The Rain Worship Festival was a joint effort of eleven villages, with each village being able to nominate up to three Rain Goddesses, young male participants, and young female participants. The total number of participants would be gathered together. It was a grand event, with the best not necessarily guaranteeing victory, as the chosen participants from other villages could outshine one’s own. The ultimate victors remained unknown until the end.
This is also why Shen Zi’an and Su Zhi considered Sun Shi’s idea as far-fetched. What basis did she have to believe that by Xiaori and Xinger giving up a spot for Wulang, he would automatically become the chosen Rain Worship Festival young participant? The town’s officials were not easily fooled, especially when it pertained to rain-making rituals and the year’s weather patterns. They would naturally select the most suitable individuals for the roles of Rain Goddess and young participants.
Shen Zhang Shi gently caressed Yueyue’s cheerful face, remarking, “These three children look so lively and joyful; they’re sure to be selected. If they aren’t chosen, then those decision-makers must be blindfolded.”
Shen Zhu chimed in agreement. At that moment, a faint cough was heard outside. She called out to her younger brother and, lifting the curtain, Shen Ziju walked in.
Su Zhi glanced at Shen Ziju, noticing he appeared slightly thinner these days, with hints of fatigue under his eyes, indicating that exam time was approaching. He seemed to be intensifying his studies. Su Zhi maintained a supportive attitude towards Shen Ziju’s academic pursuits. Despite his display of solidarity during the separation of property, he hadn’t acted against them otherwise, showing respect and gentleness. As long as he didn’t cause trouble for them, Su Zhi hoped for a bright future for him. Having a family member in a position of authority was always a positive development.
“Fifth Brother, you seem to have lost weight lately. Take care of yourself; only when you’re in good health can you focus on your exams,” Shen Zi’an advised Shen Ziju, showing his concern. In the household, he was closest to Shen Zifu and Shen Zigui, harboring disdain for Shen Ziping and his wife. While he wasn’t particularly close to his younger brother, he still showed care and concern, especially witnessing the effort Shen Ziju was putting into preparing for the imperial exams.
“Thank you, Fourth Brother, for your concern. I understand,” Shen Ziju responded gratefully.
Shen Zhang Shi intended to offer Shen Ziju a seat, but seeing Shen Zi’an standing, she refrained from insisting. Instead, she expressed her concern, “I’ve been telling you to take care of your health. Look how much weight you’ve lost. If you fall ill like last time, what will we do?”
Shen Youfu interjected with a cough, questioning, “Why bring this up?”
Shen Ziju reassured, “Dad, Mom is just showing her concern. I will take better care of myself and won’t let what happened last time repeat itself.”
Upon hearing this, Su Zhi realized that Shen Ziju was a talented student, not an imperial scholar, and had missed the opportunity due to his illness. It explained why people often praised Shen Ziju’s talent. At less than sixteen years old this year, had he not fallen ill last time, he could have achieved the title of imperial scholar at such a young age!
Shen Zhu chuckled and interjected, “Parents, let’s not dwell on gloomy thoughts. Little Brother will surely pass the imperial exams smoothly this time, then become a government scholar in the autumn, and perhaps even win the top scholar title in the capital next year. You will be so proud then!”
Shen Zhang Shi and Shen Youfu brightened up at Shen Zhu’s words.
Shen Ziju laughed at Shen Zhu’s optimism and remarked, “Winning the top scholar title isn’t as easy as you make it sound. Not to mention our county, even the provincial capital has never produced a top scholar, let alone a second or third place. If you go around saying these grand claims, you’ll only be seen as boastful. Let’s not talk like that in the future.”
Shen Zhu playfully tugged at Shen Ziju’s sleeve, saying, “Brother, I’m just wishing you good luck!”
Shen Zhang Shi jokingly added, “Come on, you’re a grown girl now, still here acting cute with your brother. If you really become the Rain Goddess, won’t people laugh at you?”
Shen Zhu quickly replied, “Of course not. I only act like this in front of you, Brother, Sister-in-law, and parents. In front of others, I am very dignified and proper.”
“That’s more like it,” Shen Zhang Shi nodded and turned to Shen Zi’an, “Zi’an, with these three children going to be selected as young participants and Zhu’er going to be chosen as the Rain Goddess, why don’t you all go together? Look out for your sister.”
Shen Zi’an agreed. For him, looking out for Shen Zhu meant ensuring she wouldn’t be mistreated by others; beyond that, he didn’t dwell on it much.
Shen Youfu added, “Zi’an, if you can assist in selecting the Rain Goddess, lend a hand.”
Listening nearby, Su Zhi thought to herself that it seemed like they were about to intervene, not unlike Sun Shi’s earlier intentions. They had wealth and the Sacred Beast, but they wouldn’t resort to bribery or coercion. The Rain Goddess would be chosen based on suitability. While Su Zhi didn’t mind using connections or shortcuts when necessary, she preferred not to get involved when it came to matters concerning deities, as the concept of reincarnation made her wary of divine involvement.
“Father, Mother, rest assured, Zi’an and I will certainly lend a hand. I’ve made a new outfit that I think looks quite nice. Zhu’er can wear it when selecting the Rain Goddess, adding a touch of charm,” Su Zhi suggested.
When selecting the Rain Goddess, it’s essential to dress appropriately, Su Zhi deliberately steered the conversation in this direction.
“We, Zi’an and I, are just rural farmers, newly settled in this area. We can only offer this much help. Zhu’er, please don’t be disappointed. We truly have limited capabilities beyond this,” Su Zhi expressed.
Upon hearing this, Shen Zhu thanked Su Zhi. Although she sensed Su Zhi might be trying to appease her with a new outfit, she couldn’t help but feel a bit uneasy. However, the idea of having a new outfit was still appealing, especially considering Su Zhi’s impeccable taste in clothing, which always made her look more refined than a typical rural farmer.
Shen Zhang Shi glanced at Shen Youfu, signaling for him to speak up.
Shen Youfu continued, “Zi’an, when selecting the Rain Goddess, it’s not only about the woman’s qualities but also her background and family’s conduct. With Zhu’er having a literate person like your younger brother by her side, it’s good. However, your additional support would be even better. With your three children also participating as young participants, and Zhu’er as the Rain Goddess, it would be a significant joy for our Shen family.”
Shen Ziju chimed in, “Having two young male participants, one young female participant, and the Rain Goddess all from one family is truly remarkable. It’s a great story.”
“Yes, it’s a wonderful tale,” Shen Youfu nodded in agreement, clearly pleased with the term, a hint of a smile lighting up his face. He enjoyed events that brought honor and glory to the Shen family.
Su Zhi didn’t want Shen Zi’an to outright reject this family’s proposal. She thought it would be best for her to handle it; a disobedient daughter-in-law and son posed different challenges to maintaining harmony in the household. Su Zhi felt for Shen Zi’an and didn’t want him to endure further distress in front of this family.
“Dad, earlier Third Sister-in-law mentioned using the Sacred Beasts to intimidate the people selecting the Rain Goddess in the town. I disagree with this approach. While the Sacred Beasts reside in our home, we mustn’t command them. They possess spiritual sensitivity, and I fear they might resent being used as tools if they were aware. So, if this method is proposed to support Zhu’er, we truly are powerless in this matter,” Su Zhi explained.
Shen Youfu’s expression darkened.
Shen Zhang Shi quickly spoke up, “Zi’an, if you don’t want to involve the Sacred Beasts, you could speak with Qian Dahu. During the Lantern Festival, when you assisted in catching those kidnappers, Qian Dahu’s family surely benefited. He owes you a favor. He has a strong influence over the Rain Worship Festival, and if he gives his approval, Zhu’er becoming the Rain Goddess is almost guaranteed!”
Su Zhi and Shen Zi’an exchanged a glance, realizing the true intention behind their plan!
Shen Zi’an hesitated to seek Qian Dahu’s help for such matters; he wasn’t inclined to use backdoor methods.
Su Zhi, observing the gaze of the elderly members of the Shen family and Shen Zhu, uttered, “Father, Mother, advocating to Qian Dahu doesn’t seem appropriate to me.”
Upon hearing Su Zhi’s words, Shen Youfu’s face darkened even further, resembling a storm cloud. He glared at Su Zhi and abruptly slammed his hand on the table.