Fortune Across the World

Chapter 57: Numbers and the Unveiling of Talent (Part 2)

Ding Qiyu nodded and replied, "Yes. According to your problem, we can break down the field area into three parts. The first part is divisible by both five and seven, but leaves a remainder of two when divided by three; the smallest number meeting this condition is thirty-five. The second part is divisible by both three and seven, but leaves a remainder of three when divided by five; the smallest number is sixty-three. The third part is divisible by both three and five, but leaves a remainder of two when divided by seven; the smallest number is thirty. Adding these three parts, thirty-five plus sixty-three plus thirty gives one hundred twenty-eight. So, one hundred twenty-eight is also a solution. Additionally, three times five is fifteen, and fifteen multiplied by seven is one hundred five. Combining one hundred five with the previously obtained one hundred twenty-eight does not affect the conditions, so subtracting one hundred five from one hundred twenty-eight gives my master's answer of twenty-three acres. One hundred twenty-eight plus one hundred five, plus multiples of one hundred five, can yield multiple solutions that satisfy the problem's conditions." Ding Qiyu explained her solution clearly and confidently. The surrounding whispers grew louder, with those who understood nodding in admiration, while those who didn't remained confused.

The stern expression on the teacher's face finally softened, the sharpness in his eyes replaced with appreciation, a slight smile tugging at his lips as he stroked his beard. "Very well explained, both clever and thorough. Well done," he commended Ding Qiyu, then gestured for her to sit and added, "What's your name?"

About to sit, Ding Qiyu stood straight and bowed, "Student Ding Qiyu. 'Qi' as in unique, 'Yu' as in feather."

The teacher nodded, "Alright, sit down," and resumed his lecture with his previous serious demeanor.

Once seated, Ding Qiyu received a thumbs-up from Lu Weiming, who beamed as if he had been in the spotlight himself. Leaning over, he whispered, "Brother Yu, you're amazing! Did you see? The teacher actually smiled at you! How did you get so smart? Your future is bright, very bright, haha..."

Embarrassed by the praise, Ding Qiyu chuckled, "I just encountered a similar problem before; it's not something I came up with myself."

Lu Weiming nudged her playfully, "Haha, no need to be modest~ Don't I know your talents?" He firmly believed in Ding Qiyu's bright future and hoped Brother Yu would soon achieve success, which would make things smoother with their parents regarding him and Weixi.

Touched by Lu Weiming's trust, Ding Qiyu chatted briefly with him before returning to her study of mechanical arts.

Lu Weixi, having just withdrawn her gaze from Ding Qiyu, lowered her eyes slightly. The confident and composed Qiyu quickened her heartbeat. Thoughts of Qiyu's serious demeanor, confidence, immersion in music, and gentle kindness filled her mind. Such a wonderful Qiyu, who liked her... She glanced at Ding Qiyu once more, a sweet smile playing on her lips.

Behind Lu Weiming, Yun Yi continued to watch Ding Qiyu's focused figure, lost in thought. Young Master Ding was truly remarkable; even as a companion, no one could dim his brilliance. Yet his glow wasn't blinding; it was warm... She recalled Ding Qiyu's words in Yun Zhi Pavilion, and that warmth spread through her heart again.

Ding Qiyu's earlier display had made her a focal point, introducing the talented companion of the Lu family's second son to those who hadn't noticed her before. Coupled with her attractive appearance, she successfully captured the attention of many young ladies and drew some jealousy and disdain from young masters. Tan Yu, in particular, was furious; his attempt to deflect attention failed, giving Ding Qiyu a chance to shine instead.

That evening, driven by longing, Ding Qiyu sought out Lu Weixi. On her way, several unfamiliar young ladies nodded in greeting, leaving her a bit bewildered. After knocking on the gate, she admired her handiwork from the previous night while waiting for someone to answer.