Chapter 618 - 251 Match (Part 1)
February was still a season with a hint of chill, and at this time the flowers had not yet bloomed; only the fresh green of the treetops burst forth against the cold, heralding the news of spring.
Ma Chengteng rushed to find Yueyao and said, "Yueyao, Qingfeng Bookhouse is holding an art exhibition." Each year during March and April, Qingfeng Bookhouse held an art exhibition featuring the works of some famous painters. But this time, the exhibition was different from the past.
It took Yueyao quite a while to understand that the art exhibition organized by Qingfeng Bookhouse was less an exhibition and more a competition. Qingfeng Bookhouse allowed anyone who enjoyed painting and was confident in their own work to submit their pieces to the Bookhouse. Several masters from the painting circles would then critique the submissions, and the top pieces would be selected. The top fifty works would be put on display.
For many painters, this exhibition was a rare opportunity. Achieving a high ranking could bring fame within the industry, and if they were lucky enough to catch the favorable attention of the masters, their future prospects would be bright. Hence, the exhibition was highly coveted.
Yueyao was somewhat tempted—this was a chance to make a name for herself. In any profession, fame was essential; without it, no matter how excellent one’s paintings, nobody would take notice.
No one could escape the word "utility," and Yueyao was no exception.
Yueyao was very tempted, but she had her own principles for how to conduct herself. After thinking it over, she said, "Uncle, I have to ask my mentor first. If he agrees, I will participate, but if he doesn’t..." If her mentor disagreed, it would mean she wasn’t ready yet. It would be a pity, but she would still choose not to participate.
Ma Chengteng was puzzled by why Mr. Yu Shan was unwilling to formally accept Yueyao as a student. Mr. Yu Shan tutored Yueyao with great care yet refused to take her as his apprentice. Ma Chengteng really couldn’t understand what Mr. Yu Shan ultimately wanted to do. He hesitated and said, "What if Mr. Yu Shan doesn’t let you participate? It would be such a shame to miss out on such a good opportunity."
Yueyao paused for a moment before responding, "If the mentor doesn’t agree, it must be because my skills are not up to standard, so I shouldn’t participate."
Ma Chengteng sighed softly. Although Yueyao hadn’t formally become a disciple, Mr. Yu Shan was indeed, in effect, her teacher. If the teacher didn’t agree, the student should not go against his wishes.
Yueyao wanted to go to the manor. Although things were calm at Ma’s Mansion now, she still longed for the mountains, where she felt less confined than in the back courtyard and enjoyed a greater sense of freedom.