Chapter 53: The Young Master of the Du Family

“Sister, sister!” No sooner had Liu Yitiao and his companions reached the writing desk than Zhang Chuwen hurried after them. He rushed to Zhang Chuchu’s side, slightly out of breath, and reproached her, “Why did you come here alone? It’s dangerous for a girl to wander off like this.”

“Brother Chuwen! I never expected to meet you here,” Liu Yitiao greeted him with a cupped hand, then turned to Zhang Chuchu. “May I ask if this young lady is Miss Chuchu? What a pleasure, I salute you.”

“Salutations, Young Master Liu.” Zhang Chuchu nodded gently, her face flushed with a rosy hue where the blue robe did not cover.

“Chuchu! It really is you!” Liu Xiaohui exclaimed with delight in Liu Yitiao’s arms. “I nearly recognized you earlier! Why are you covering your face, Sister Chuchu? I almost didn’t realize who you were.”

Zhang Chuchu laughed, “Xiaohui, veiling one’s face in public is customary. You’re still young now, but when you grow up, you’ll have to cover your face too.”

Just then, Zhang Chuwen noticed Liu Yitiao’s presence and hurried to return the greeting. “So even Brother Yitiao is here. No wonder Chuchu wandered off for no reason, haha…”

“Brother!” Zhang Chuchu protested shyly, “I only came because the lanterns here are more exquisite, not for—”

“Enough, enough, I understand,” Zhang Chuwen cut her off with a smile, then turned to Liu Yitiao. “Did you come to the lantern contest as well, Brother Yitiao? Come, I know this place well. There are ink, brush, and paper on the table over there. You can compose poetry here. In just a little while, Du Wei—Young Master Du Zhigui—will arrive to judge them personally. His literary talent is renowned, a true heir to Du Yan’s tradition. To have your poetry critiqued by him is a rare opportunity.”

It was clear that Zhang Chuwen held Du Zhigui in great admiration. Liu Yitiao waved his hand, “No need for poetry or verse; I’m only here to join the festivities. I’ve heard Young Master Du is among the most talented in Sanyuan County—I’d like to see him for myself.”

“Indeed, Du’s writing truly impresses me,” Zhang Chuwen said, as if finding a kindred spirit, launching into a passionate account of Du Zhigui’s accomplishments.

Du Wei, courtesy name Zhigui, was born into a prominent family. His grandfather, Du Yan, was famed throughout the land for his literary achievements and served as Imperial Censor. Du Wei was clever and courteous from an early age, understanding propriety and filial piety, earning Du Yan’s deep affection and careful tutelage.

Du Wei did not disappoint. Diligent and eager to learn, by age fifteen he had mastered a third of his grandfather’s teachings, earning a reputation as a gifted youth in Sanyuan County and some renown in Chang’an as well.

As for Du Zhigui’s talent, Liu Yitiao had never seen it for himself and could not judge. But judging by Zhang Chuwen’s esteem, it must be considerable. Zhang Chuwen was still a pure scholar, full of youthful idealism—what might be called a ‘passionate youth’ nowadays—and would never flatter Du Zhigui merely for the power of the Du household.

Young, wealthy, influential, and genuinely admired by scholars of humble origin such as Zhang Chuwen—Du Zhigui must either be an utterly kind-hearted soul or a masterful schemer adept at hiding his true intentions.

That was Liu Yitiao’s verdict. Yet in his heart, he leaned toward the latter. One’s environment shapes one’s character, and Liu Yitiao did not believe a child raised in official circles could be so purely benevolent. This lantern contest, he suspected, was more for show than anything else.

Hearing Zhang Chuwen’s endless praise of Du Zhigui, Zhang Chuchu interjected, displeased, “Brother, I’ve told you before—never place too much trust in the sons of officials like Du Wei, or you’ll surely regret it someday.”

Zhang Chuwen chuckled, not refuting her, only smiling gently. “Sister, let’s not discuss Young Master Du’s character—it’s hard to say. I admire only his writing. For talent, his is unmatched in Sanyuan County. Compared to him, I am as earth to heaven, far removed.”

“Haha, Brother Chuwen, don’t belittle yourself. You’re one of the few tribute scholars in our region, destined for official rank someday. Don’t let a few essays cloud your judgment. Remember: for an official, ability matters most. Talent brings fleeting fame, but ability brings real benefit to the people. To the common folk, only practical benefit makes a good official.” Seeing Zhang Chuwen’s self-doubt, Liu Yitiao recalled modern debates about education and competence, and shared his thoughts to reassure him.

Zhang Chuchu’s eyes sparkled at Liu Yitiao’s words, and her fondness for him grew.

Zhang Chuwen, as if awakened, felt his mind clear. He bowed to Liu Yitiao, “Your words are most true, Sir Liu. I am enlightened.”

“Haha, just idle talk—take it as you will, Brother Chuwen, and don’t take it too seriously,” Liu Yitiao replied politely.

Zhang Chuwen grew earnest. “Your words are sound, Sir Liu. I was vain just now.”

Liu Yitiao nodded with a smile, saying nothing more. He noticed a young gentleman in splendid attire being escorted toward them by a crowd, and pointed him out, “Brother Chuwen, is that Young Master Du Zhigui?”

Zhang Chuwen followed his gaze and nodded, “Yes, that’s Du Zhigui.” His tone was calm, no longer stirred as before whenever Du Zhigui was mentioned. He had evidently come to terms.

Liu Yitiao observed carefully. Du Zhigui was about the same age as Liu Ertiao, around fifteen, with fair skin untouched by sunlight, and handsome features. Though not quite as striking as Li Rusi, whom he had seen previously, he was enough to stir envy in many men. His face bore a gentle, amiable smile—not the foolish grin of Liu Ertiao, but one that inspired warmth.

He was indeed impressive. No wonder so many young women along the way cast flirtatious glances his way. Liu Yitiao glanced at Zhang Chuchu and found her secretly observing Young Master Du as well, but the expression on her face was one of disdain!

Seeing this, Liu Yitiao felt relieved—his future bride was not someone easily dazzled or vain.

At that moment, the scholars at the desk eagerly welcomed Du Wei’s arrival, while Liu Yitiao and his companions watched quietly from the side. Unexpectedly, rather than being greeted, Du Zhigui approached them directly.

Young Master Du parted the crowd and walked up to Zhang Chuwen and Zhang Chuchu, greeting them with cupped hands, “Brother Chuwen, Miss Chuchu, Du offers his respects.”