The Su family has a tiny, cherub-faced baby, with big, twinkling eyes like black grapes, so adorable you can hardly stand it.
His father, who transmigrated and is now studying hard: My Zhe'er is so lovely. Of course he should be pampered. I'll pass the imperial exams and make sure you live a life of comfort.
His gifted, competitive older brother: My little brother is frail. Once I'm a powerful minister, I'll find the best medicine to cure him.
Su Wenzhe, a naturally gifted top student: If I can lie flat, then I will. This is a guaranteed win.
But things gradually start to go off course...
His father and brother pass the exams and make a name for themselves, boldly speaking their minds at court and advising the emperor on this and that.
Before long, letters arrive from home: Little brother, come bail us out.
Su Wenzhe sighs. So much for lying flat.
He's barely finished cleaning up his brother's mess when his father's letter arrives: My son, I write these words in tears. Take care of yourself. These are my last words from prison.
Su Wenzhe: ...So you're really not going to let me rest, huh?
Fine, I'll bail you out again.
The third time, it's his younger brother... or his father: Son! Su Wenzhe: All right, I get it.
As he keeps bailing them out, Su Wenzhe suddenly realizes he's become prime minister. Whatever happened to lying flat and enjoying the good life?
Guide:
Inspired by the Three Su writers. The plot is fictional, and it's probably a mix of raising kids, the imperial examinations, and food. The whole family works hard together. The setting is based on the Song dynasty, but please don't nitpick the historical details.
Theme: As long as life goes on, so does the struggle.
