"Yes, Siniang, I want to curry favor with my lord; I want him to notice me."
CLAP! CLAP! CLAP! Siniang applauded.
"That's the spirit. Given your unfortunate circumstances, it's only natural to want to climb the social ladder and become a phoenix. But do you know where you went wrong?"
"My lord... is Siniang's, not for a lowly servant like me to touch..."
"Hm, that's one thing indeed. Never mind, let me tell you. Sharpening your axe doesn't delay your woodcutting. You think our lord, as gentlemanly as he appears, wouldn't notice or see through your little tricks? He himself is skilled in playing these games; your moves are too green in his eyes. The most crucial point is, when trying to hook up with a man, or charm him into your control, first you need to take care of your own skin. Look at you now. You've enjoyed a few days of comfort and you're already impatient, right? Embroidery, music, calligraphy, and painting—don't you need to learn them all?"
Fangcao shook her head.
