"That's right, that's right! Let's all pitch in!"
The neighbors were full of enthusiasm. They moved clutter, swept the floor, and sprinkled water, instantly turning the small courtyard into a hub of bustling activity.
Chen Wen, rubbing his bleary eyes, stumbled out of the inner room and was startled by the scene. "Father? What… what's going on? Did we get robbed?"
Sister Lin, grinning from ear to ear, chimed in, "Second Uncle Chen! Are you still half asleep? It's wonderful news! Your Xiaoheng has passed the Martial Scholar exam! The Official bringing the good news will be at the door any minute!"
"He passed?! Xiaoheng really passed?!"
Chen Wen was instantly wide awake, his eyes as round as saucers. An immense wave of ecstasy washed over him. His son's official rank was his support for the rest of his life.
'My retirement? I don't have to worry about it anymore!'
