Chapter 353: Chapter 353

The autumn wind brings a refreshing coolness, but in the courtyard, it is a heated debate.

The scholars’ debate is like a grand event, attracting more and more spectators, and arousing their emotions to an ever greater pitch.

This debate will leave a painting in the long stream of their lives; even if they have no hope of passing high exams in the future, they will still be stirred when recalling this debate.

They do not yet know that this debate will later lead to the Great Qing’s economic boom, making it a truly prosperous and economically developed nation.

Song Ci might also, perhaps many years later, think of this scene and still break into a knowing smile.

If she indeed has a future.

Even if she doesn’t, they will have one.

Song Ci glanced at her few young grandchildren sitting beside her, her gaze gentle.

This debate had lasted for two hours and was nearing its end; it was time to return home.

Song Ci wanted to leave, but someone held her back, smiling and asking: "The Grand Madam has stayed for so long, I wonder if you have gained anything? Or any insights for the young ones?"

Song Ci turned her head, narrowed her eyes, when did this arrogant eunuch arrive? Read full story at novel~fire~net

Yes, the one asking was Wei Cheng, who almost got engaged to Wang Qiuman, still attired in purple, exuding a handsome and gentle demeanor.

Yet, no matter how noble his attire, compared to Cui Changxiao not far behind him, he was still reduced to nothing.

Song Ci looked at him with a complex gaze; of all people, he sought her out... is he resenting her for meddling in his engagement with Wang Qiuman?

Oh, blaming others for one’s own misconduct?

Hehe, then don’t blame Old Song for ruthlessly countering.

Wei Cheng furrowed his brows at her gaze: "Grand Madam?"

Song Ci did not look at him, but instead turned to Cui Changxiao: "Young Cui, could it be that someone is upset because I brought my grandchildren to a free lecture and didn’t pay tuition?"

Cui Changxiao was startled: "What do you mean, Grand Madam?"

"Everyone knows, I am a farmer’s wife by birth, and the few words I recognize were taught by my son, but this child wants my insights? Isn’t that making things difficult for me?" Song Ci pointed at Wei Cheng and said, "Is asking for my insight giving me too much credit, or do you think these scholars are less valuable than a farmer’s wife?"

The scholars, hearing this, indeed furrowed their brows slightly, somewhat displeased.

Wei Cheng’s expression changed slightly, but he maintained his smile and said: "Grand Madam is too modest, I was merely observing the Prime Minister’s excellent literary skills, surely due to family heritage..."

"You are mistaken. As everyone knows, our Song Family hails from a Poor Family, where could we have any family heritage? If you ask why my son succeeded, it was due to his own effort and intelligence, the result of studying diligently for ten years." Song Ci shook her head and said, "Don’t speak of family heritage; no one can succeed casually. Without intelligence, even if the family invests ample resources in you, it is just a waste."

Wei Cheng’s smile froze.

Song Ci continued her critique: "The family provides resource cultivation, which can be considered support, but ultimately one must be strong themselves. If one is like a puddle of mud, unable to shape themselves, no amount of support will help. Therefore, first one must have talent and intelligence, and with added support, success comes much easier. What, you don’t understand this? No way, any family head with a brain would cultivate those with inherent abilities, otherwise what a waste of the family assets?"

Wei Cheng clenched his fists and said: "The Grand Madam’s words are correct."

"You are wrong again, I am not lecturing you. Lecturing is generally reserved for one’s own progeny; I am not well-acquainted with you, why would I lecture you? No need to be blamed for meddling in others’ affairs."

Song Ci spoke innocently, yet that old face might as well have said ’lecturing to make you change? I don’t care what happens to you.’