Ms. Niu and Second Uncle berated their two sons as useless for not attending school. They pointed fingers at the main branch of the family, accusing them of favoritism.
"Why didn't Shao Liulang ensure his own sons received an education like he did? If he had, our boys might be esteemed scholars by now…"
Shao Erlang and Shao Silang felt utterly demoralized.
What had they done to deserve constant scolding and trouble?
But studying wasn't something they excelled at, no matter how much envy they harbored.
After finishing their tirade against their sons and daughters-in-law, Ms. Niu and Second Uncle turned their attention to Xianwen, pressuring him to work harder.
Their sons were beyond redemption; they would have to pin their hopes on their grandchildren now.
But how could Xianwen endure such suffering? His protests echoed through the courtyard.
Life in the second branch of the family's household was filled with the sounds of children being reprimanded and punished daily.
