When school let out at noon, Sheng Leyun was walking out with her backpack on, surrounded by a group of what others would call "bad kids."
"Sheng Leyun, we'll all listen to you, but you have to promise that in seven years, we can earn our freedom fair and square!" The kids, their hearts a mix of confidence and anxiety about the future, repeatedly sought her reassurance.
Sheng Leyun nodded. "As long as you're obedient enough, I promise you'll not only get your freedom early, but you'll also become that model child other parents talk about when they scold their own kids!"
'Huh, the model child other parents talk about?'
The kids mulled it over. They were spoiled at home, sure, but they could also be incredibly irritating at times. Their parents had, on more than one occasion, brought up how so-and-so from a certain family was doing so well.
They hated hearing it but couldn't argue back. After all, that other kid really was outstanding and deserved to be held up as a role model.
