Xingzhou, Yan Residence.
As the end of the year approached, Madam Li was bustling about so much that her feet barely touched the ground. She had to prepare for the New Year's gifts, attend banquets hosted by various households, and tally the income from the manorial stores—she was so busy that she even roped in Daohua to help out.
"With your father promoted to Prefectural Governor this year, the gift exchanges have increased several-fold compared to last year," Madam Li remarked as she examined the list of New Year's gifts from other households, chatting with her daughter who was busy with the accounts.
Daohua kept her head down and responded, "When an official rises in rank, of course more people will try to ingratiate themselves."
Madam Li glanced at her daughter and scolded with a smile, "Don't talk like that outside."
Daohua looked up and stuck her tongue out, playfully replying, "I'm not foolish."
