Zhu Shunyao let out a breath of relief upon hearing Zhu Yanli’s idea. She had genuinely worried that she might follow her father-in-law to learn opera. It wasn’t that she looked down on opera singers, but she simply did not want her daughter to endure such hardship.
Ten minutes on stage requires ten years of practice off stage. Opera roles demand solid foundational skills, and mastering those skills requires absolute endurance of hardship. Zhu Shunyao had long noticed that his eldest daughter possessed a certain talent for music. Especially with opera, she could quickly hum along after hearing others sing just once. However, considering the bitterness of opera training, he had never mentioned this aspect. Now, hearing his daughter’s ambition, although opera differed somewhat from general music, it was still a career involving melody and tone. Moreover, becoming a teacher offered stability.
After some thought, Zhu Shunyao said seriously, "Father has no objections. However, you must discuss this with your Grandpa. If Grandpa agrees, then it is settled."
Zhu Yanli naturally knew she needed to speak with Xie Zhong, so she replied, "Yes, I will tell Grandpa tomorrow."
"You have class tomorrow," Zhu Shunyao pointed out.
"Let Ani tell Grandpa," Zhu Yanli suggested. Who said Zhu Yanli wasn’t smart? Zhu Yanyi would definitely try to push her forward as a shield. Fortunately, Zhu Yanyi knew that Xie Zhong loved her deeply and also liked Zhu Yanli. Learning music was not a bad thing, so Xie Zhong would surely agree if she knew.
The next day, after Zhu Yanyi told Xie Zhong about the matter, she agreed without hesitation. Although she was not very familiar with modern music knowledge, she could read books and teach the basics. Thinking of music, she glanced at Zhu Yanyi and considered that she could also start learning. She said, "Ani, Grandpa will teach you the four arts: zither, chess, calligraphy, and painting."
Zhu Yanyi nodded. Taking advantage of her young age, she had originally planned to learn more. "Yes, I want to learn the four arts from Grandpa."
From that day on, Zhu Yanyi truly became busy. She woke up early to learn characters and memorize basic medical texts. In the afternoon, she studied the zither for one hour, chess for one hour, and painting for one hour. In the evening, she practiced calligraphy for one hour. Zhu Yanyi’s life became rich and full. By the time Zhu Shunyao noticed, Zhu Yanyi had already grown accustomed to this routine. She rejoiced at her daughter’s intelligence and diligence, yet also felt a pang of sympathy for her enduring such hardship at such a young age.
Days passed steadily until the twentieth day of the lunar year. This day marked the occasion for the Zhu and Cheng families to establish a sworn kinship.
Early in the morning, Xie Xinlian dressed Zhu Yanli and Zhu Yanyi in new clothes. "Remember not to dirty these new clothes. You need to wear them during the New Year. If you get them dirty now, they will become old clothes by then."
"Understood, Mama," Zhu Yanli and Zhu Yanyi said, particularly happy.
Zhu Shunyao sighed with emotion nearby, "It is all because of me that you mothers and daughters have suffered. One day, I will ensure you have as many clothes as you wish, and can wear new clothes whenever you want."
"Yes, I believe you," Xie Xinlian responded with a smile.
Zhu Shunyao indeed did not forget the words he spoke that day. Later, when he finally gained the ability, he realized that he had possessed the motivation to earn money so early on. This drive was born from the desire to create better conditions for his family.
Zhu Shunyao looked at Xie Xinlian with concern again, "Are you feeling okay today?"