Chapter 38: Chapter 38: Reincarnation is a Technical Affair
To speak of reincarnation, itâs truly an art form; landing a good reincarnation spot relies on oneâs fate. Among the second generation of the Song Family brothers, none reincarnated better than Fourth Master Song Zhiyu.
Unlike his elder brothers Song Zhiyuan and Song Zhicheng, who experienced hardship growing up, starting from humble beginningsâor even the third son, who was born when the Song Family was just beginning to prosperâSong Zhiyu was born during the peak of the familyâs glory, truly born with a silver spoon in his mouth as the youngest in the family. His cherished status was evident.
Song Zhiyuâs fate was foretold by a high monk at birth; he was destined for wealth and good fortune, the kind where a flower pot would fall from above but be blown off course by the wind, missing him entirely.
However, he lacked the fate for officialdom, so as of now, Song Zhiyu is merely a Tongsheng after passing the child exam twice unsuccessfully, still studying in the Qingyang Academy.
Yet no one considers this a problem. For the Song Family, Song Zhiyu passing the scholar or even the palace exam would be merely the icing on the cake. He is born into wealth and leisure, and doesnât need to strive for a career to enjoy a lifetime of prosperity.
Even if he tried, the Song Familyâs status doesnât require it. After all, the family already boasts two Jinshi scholars, with the eldest son being a Prime Minister, and a stepbrother who holds a Fifth Rank official position. The Song Family is already flourishing and doesnât need more eyes on them.
Thus, under the deliberate or inadvertent influences of the Song Family, Song Zhiyu has been pampered since youth, excelling in none of the scholarly pursuits, yet leading in fighting, climbing trees, and cricket battles, becoming one of the little overlords in the circle of noble children in the capital.
But the Song Family doesnât mind these little scoundrels, as itâs a reality in many aristocratic families, and is most reassuring to the Emperor. Otherwise, would a lone family dominate the nation and win national acclaim, seeking to overturn the heavens?
Moreover, though Song Zhiyu is a overlord, he has his limits; he doesnât engage in heinous acts like rape, plunder, or murder. After all, he has a legitimate older brother more ferocious than any parental figure to watch over him.
Under the upbringing from his family, Song Zhiyu understands his place too, living a carefree life. If the sky falls, the tallest will bear the brunt. He developed an optimistic, amiable disposition, being generous, and liked by everyone.
Furthermore, Fourth Master Song is quite charming. With a smile, his eyes filled with affection, even the maids blush.
Song Ci looked at the grinning youngster, thinking that the genes from that pudgy old man turned out alright after all. The adults and children alike were all quite pleasing to the eye.
"Mother, why arenât you saying anything? Do you still blame Fourth Brother for returning late? Actually, besides the boat ride, I rushed back on horseback, to the point my thighs are chafed." Song Zhiyu complained pitifully.
Song Ci handed over a cup of tea, "Why would I blame you? Mainly, you ramble so much I canât get a word in. Donât say another word; Iâm dry-mouthed for you. Quickly, have a drink to soothe your throat. Nanny Gong, have someone prepare a bath for Fourth Master, with some herbal sachets to relieve his fatigue."
After a pause, she remembered she had a eldest grandson too, and asked, "Did you return by yourself? Whereâs your eldest nephew?"
Just as she finished speaking, a little maid came in cheerfully, saying, "Madam, the eldest young master is back too."
Song Ci looked over, and a handsome teenage boy walked in, rushing over to kneel in front of her, "Suâer asks grandmother for forgiveness; Suâer is late."
My goodness, another beautiful youth.
Looking at her eldest grandson, Song Ci thought that her familyâs young men could form a performing group.