Chapter 176 – Officials That Arent Officials
The Grand Ruen Dynasty's Imperial Capital.
On the twenty-fifth day of the first lunar month, the festive New Year atmosphere had gradually faded, and ordinary civilians had returned to their daily routines.
Su Yi had to go to the Imperial Academy Hall today. He walked down the street wearing the official robes of the Grand Tutor of the Crown Prince, a prestigious first-rank position. His attire was eye-catching. Ordinary people rarely saw dignitaries wearing robes such as these because they usually traveled in carriages instead of making their way about on foot.
Su Yi glanced around, and those who had been staring quickly lowered their heads, afraid that Su Yi might catch them in the act of sneaking glances.
He smiled wryly to himself. Judging by their reactions, he guessed that he was probably the only official in the capital to go out without a carriage. A child’s innocent, clear voice sounded from behind him.
"The crane he's wearing is so pretty!"
Su Yi paused for a moment, turning toward the voice. He saw a woman covering her child’s mouth, trying to keep him quiet.
When she noticed Su Yi looking her way, she quickly knelt to apologize, repeatedly saying, "Forgive us, my lord. My son is young and doesn’t know any better. He didn’t mean to offend..."
Su Yi walked over to help the woman up, and gestured for her not to worry. He looked at the boy beside her, a thin, fragile child of around four or five, dressed in a patched linen shirt. The child, realizing he might be in trouble, looked timidly at Su Yi.
"What were you trying to say?" Su Yi asked the child with a gentle smile.
"I... I..." The child looked helplessly at his mother, unsure if he should answer Su Yi’s question.