《Farm Girl Turns Everything Around: Sly Husband, Let's Farm》


 Chapter 1 - 1 Mother Has Run Away

    1 Chapter 1 Mother Has Run Away


    Trantor: 549690339


    In early spring, the tender greenery adorned Rooster Mountain.


    Qiao Xiaomai, d in threadbare hemp garments, was justing down the mountain path with a bundle of firewood on her back when she heard her neighbor, Aunt Gun, hollering from the distance. ¡°Xiaomai! Hurry home, your mother has run off with the peddler from Chani Vige!¡±


    Zhuang Luhe had run away?


    Qiao Xiaomai was stunned.


    ¡°What are you dawdling for? Go home now!¡± Aunt Gun gestured to her.


    Regaining her wits, Qiao Xiaomai hurriedly jogged towards her home.


    On the run, Aunt Gun exined, ¡°Your mother and your sister-inw Chunhua went to the town to sell sweet potatoes this morning. Next thing we knew, she was nowhere to be found. Someer saw her following that peddler in the direction of County Town!¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai bit her lip, clutching the firewood tighter on her back, and sped up.


    The family home of Qiao Xiaomai was located at the extreme west of Anping Vige. Their new house, made of blue bricks and roof tiles, was particrly eye-catching among the row of run-down earth-walled houses in the vige.


    When Qiao Xiaomai arrived home, a crowd had already gathered. Her father, Qiao Changshun, sat on a stone outside the house, sighing sorrowfully.


    ¡°Father!¡± Qiao Xiaomai rushed over and called out, after which she looked coldly at a long-faced woman among the onlookers. ¡°Sister-inw Chunhua, you went to town with my mother today. Did you see her run away with someone?¡±


    Li Chunhua pped her thigh and raised her voice, ¡°We both went to town today. She went to sell her sweet potatoes, I went to sell my embroidery. We agreed to meet at the town gate at noon.¡±


    ¡°She disappeared at noon. I went to ask around, and some people said she followed a man towards County Town. That man is the peddler who often visits our vige. Many people in town recognize him!¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai nodded, ¡°Thank you, Sister-inw Chunhua, for bringing this news to my father and me.¡±


    She said, pulling Changshun up from the stone and stepping into the courtyard, closing the gate with a ¡°bang¡±, blocking out the gossip and curious gazes from outside.


    She entered the kitchen, put down the firewood from her back, and then lifted the lid of the flour jar to look inside.


    It was empty. The remaining three pounds of ck flour and half a pound of white flour were gone.


    She then ran to the hall, turned over the iron box under Chanshun¡¯s bed to find it empty, with dozens of copper coins missing.


    Staring at the empty iron box, she bit her lip and stood up to check the big wooden cab for clothes. As she had thought, Zhuang Luhe¡¯s dress wasn¡¯t there; all that was left were a few old clothes belonging to Qiao Changshun and Qiao Dami.


    Her previous suspicions were now confirmed.


    Luhe, the biological mother of her body, had indeed eloped with someone.


    ¡°Xiaomai¡­¡± Qiao Changshun stood at the door, his thin, dark face filled with worry. Rubbing hisrge, calloused hands, he looked helpless.


    It was all his fault.


    He had broken his leg six months ago while helping someone build a house. Since then, not only could he not do heavy work, he needed to take medicine regrly. The once modest family was now the poorest in the vige because of him.


    So much so, that Luhe had tired of the poverty and run off with someone else.


    Qiao Xiaomai took a deep breath, closed the cab, and said, ¡°Father, life must go on.¡±


    Changshun looked at her calm face in bewilderment. If this had happened to anyone else, they would be in tears, yet Qiao Xiaomai merely furrowed her brows.


    He started anxiously, ¡°Xiaomai, is it¡­¡±


    Before he could finish his sentence, there was a knock on the door. ¡°Changshun,e out. I heard that your damn wife has run off with a strange man. Mother hase to see you!¡±

 Chapter 2 - 2: Going to be sold to the Brothel

    2 Chapter 2: Going to be sold to the Brothel


    Trantor: 549690339


    Hearing this sharp and unpleasant voice, Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s eyes shed with disgust. The person who had arrived was her aunt, Zhu Cuiying, who was notoriously greedy and unscrupulous.


    Upon hearing the knock at the door, Qiao Changshun, ignoring Qiao Xiaomai, hobbled toward the entrance.


    Seeing this, Qiao Xiaomai furrowed her delicate eyebrows even more, staying still at her spot.


    The courtyard gate swung open, and Qiao Changshun¡¯s mother from the Sun family walked in, followed by his elder sister-inw, Zhu Cuiying.


    As soon as Zhu Cuiying entered the courtyard, she yelled out loud, ¡°Changsun, did that wicked mother of yours really run away with a rogue?¡±


    Sun¡¯s narrow eyes red at Qiao Changshun, cursing, ¡°I told you long ago that woman was up to no good. Look now, she has crippled you and run off with a wild man, not only ruining your reputation but also disgracing our entire Qiao family!¡±


    ¡°That meddling woman deserves a miserable fate. The Spring Tax is almost due, and your family has neither silver nornd. She just carefreely left, and all those times I advised you to divorce her, you would not listen. Let¡¯s see what you¡¯re going to do now!¡±


    She pointed an using finger at Qiao Changshun, her voice was drowned in the spit that flew out.


    Qiao Changshun looked down, only rubbing hisrge hands, silent, with the wrinkles on his face deepening.


    In truth, there were still over two months left before the spring tax was due. However, his family was so poor that not even a copper coin could be found, and both the granary and the cer were so empty that not even a mouse would visit. How could he muster up the tax money, or even the grains, in two months?


    This¡­


    This is like pushing someone onto a path of death!


    Zhu Cuiying was assessing the threerge rooms, her face filled with unconcealed greed, which, whenbined with her pockmarkedplexion and ugly features, made her look even more hideous.


    Having finished sizing up the ce, she turned to Qiao Changshun, her words imbued with a tone of delight at his misfortune.


    ¡°We thought of marrying Xiaomai off to the third son of the Jiang family in exchange for some dowry to use as tax money. But now that Zhuang Luhe has run off with a rogue, with such a mother, even if Jiang¡¯s third son is a fool, old Jiang would never agree to Xiaomai¡¯s marriage!¡±


    The Jiang family were the vige butchers, they ughtered pigs daily to sell in the town. They were the wealthiest in the vige second only to the Vige Chief¡¯s family, and even owned a small courtyard in town.


    Jiang¡¯s third son, Jiang Zhuangzhuang, was mentally challenged, having the mental age of a six or seven-year-old, and was often violent.


    Yet, even so, there were girls in the vige who wanted to marry him simply because the Jiang family was well-off and meals there always included meat.


    However, Jiang Zhuangzhuang fancied Qiao Xiaomai.


    What he appreciated was not Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s physical appearance but her cooking skills. Zhuang Luhe was famous in the vige for her culinary skills, and she was the go-to person whenever there were events, whether happy or sorrowful.


    Having learned from Zhuang Luhe since a young age, Qiao Xiaomai had also developed excellent cooking skills. Jiang Zhuangzhuang once had a taste of her pork dish and was taken. Since then, he has wanted to marry her.


    But both Zhuang Luhe and Qiao Xiaomai disagreed. They would rather live in poverty than marry a mentally challenged man.


    But now¡­


    Now that Zhuang Luhe has run off with a rogue, even if Qiao Xiaomai were willing to marry Jiang Zhuangzhuang, the Jiang family would disagree.


    On hearing Zhu Cuiying¡¯s words, Qiao Changsun was taken aback, his back more hunched.


    Qiao Xiaomai was already fifteen years old and it was time to start discussing marriage. This scandal would make it hard for Qiao Xiaomai to find a suitor in the future.


    ¡°The way I see it, you don¡¯t need to worry as much. If the Jiang family doesn¡¯t want Xiaomai, you could sell her to a wealthy family in the town, they are always looking for maids,¡± spoke out Zhu Cuiying again, her eyes now fixated on Qiao Xiaomai with unconcealed loathing.


    ¡°Sell, you say? Which wealthy family would want a girl of her age, except for a brothel?¡± spoke Mrs. Sun, her words even more venomous than Zhu Cuiying¡¯s.


    Upon hearing these words, Qiao Changsun finally looked at Mrs. Sun, shaking with rage. ¡°Mother, you are Xiaomai¡¯s biological grandmother. How could you curse her so cruelly?!¡±

 Chapter 3 - 3: Ulterior Motive

    3 Chapter 3: Ulterior Motive


    Trantor: 549690339


    Sun Family¡¯s matron exaggeratedly eximed, ¡°I¡¯m racking my brain for your benefit, and you use me, your wife, of cursing you? My good intentions have truly gone to the dogs!¡±


    ¡°Without selling Xiaomai, how will you pay the Spring Tax!¡±


    With her exaggerated tone, the spit from her words sttered all over Qiao Changshun¡¯s face.


    ¡°Based solely on Xiaomai¡¯s looks alone, she could fetch at least twenty taels of silver in the brothel. That¡¯s more than enough to pay your Spring Tax and even re-purchase thend you previously sold for your medical bills!¡±


    ¡°Mother, Xiaomai is your own granddaughter!¡± Qiao Changshun¡¯s body trembles as if sifting chaff, his normally darkplexion turning red with anger.


    ¡°Enough with this talk of selling someone off, let¡¯s sit down and discuss. It hasn¡¯te to the point of selling a daughter,¡± Zhu Cuiying interjected as a mediator.


    ¡°Besides Xiaomai, the Qiao Family still has valuable things. It¡¯s not like we¡¯re at a dead end. Why must we resort to selling off a daughter? This kind of gossip will just fuel backbiting!¡± She said, ncing over the three-room tiled house.


    Qiao Xiaomai watched the two women¡¯s charade with cold eyes, a corner of her mouth curling into a smirk. ¡°Grandmother, haven¡¯t you always been iming to outsiders how much you dote on my father, your son? Now that he¡¯s being pressured into selling his daughter, why won¡¯t you take out some money to help him over this hurdle?¡±


    Pay from her own pocket?


    Sun Family¡¯s matron took a pause when she heard this. Snapped a harsh re at Qiao Xiaomai, she then pped her thigh and wailed, ¡°Oh heavens, my life is such a misery!¡±


    ¡°Breaking my heart every day for Changshun¡¯s family, and now being used of neglecting Changshun by a little brat, oh God, open your eyes! Cast down a thunderbolt and strike down those heartless wretches!¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai stood still, watching the Sun Family¡¯s matron¡¯s crying jag with cold eyes and not moving.


    Qiao Changshun bowed his head and remained silent.


    He¡¯s always been dutiful and honest, but now his wife has run off with another man, and Sun Family¡¯s matron is pushing him to sell his daughter. He no longer had the patience to appease her as he had before.


    His family has always been his bottom line. He¡¯s willing to endure hardship, but he would absolutely not sell his daughter.


    Zhu Cuiying, seeing this, cast another nce around the bright and spacious tiled house belonging to Qiao Xiaomai. ¡°Changshun,¡± she began advising, ¡°your mother is only thinking for your good. If you don¡¯t pay the tax, you might have to do hardbor.¡±


    ¡°Look, you don¡¯t have to sell Xiaomai. Doesn¡¯t your family still have this house? It was newly builtst winter. If you sell it, you could get at least ten taels of silver.¡±


    ¡°Coincidentally, your nephew is also about to get engaged. We, the Qiao family, have no ce to live in the old courtyard, so why don¡¯t you sell this house to me and your brother? Then our parents could also move in.¡±


    ¡°We¡¯re all family, for our parents¡¯ sake, you could ask us for a little less, how about five taels of silver?¡±


    Upon hearing this, Qiao Xiaomai couldn¡¯t help but let out a coldugh. As expected, the so-called n to sell her was just a smokescreen. Qiao Changshun wouldn¡¯t do such a thing. Sun Family¡¯s matron¡¯s and Zhu Cuiying¡¯s real goal was her tiled house.


    The house, which cost twenty taels to buildst winter, they now wanted for just five taels. What calction!


    Tired of arguing with these two shrewish women, she said, ¡°Father, go and invite the vige chief over. Let him mediate this dispute. Tell him that just after my mother¡¯s death, my grandmother is already forcing you to sell me off to the brothel, and my aunt is pressuring you to sell our house.¡±


    ¡°Oh my!¡± Upon hearing this, the Sun Family¡¯s matron let out a sharp shriek and simply plopped down on the ground, wailing, ¡°Oh heavens, I can¡¯t live anymore! My good intentions are being twisted into a plot for property. God, please strike down this disrespectful wretch!¡±


    Distaste etched on her face, Qiao Xiaomai was about to urge Qiao Changsun again when a tall figure appeared at the gate. To her surprise, it was Tong Sang, the Vige Chief¡¯s son.

 Chapter 4 - 4: Scared

    4 Chapter 4: Scared


    Trantor: 549690339


    Tong Sang still held Qiao Dami¡¯s hand, signalling to the women huddled at the entrance to make way, as he stepped into the courtyard.


    Qiao Xiaomai hurriedly approached, ¡°Dami, did you fall into the river?¡±


    Seven-year-old Qiao Dami was soaking wet, clutching a broken pottery jar in his hand with a dozen fish as long as an adult¡¯s finger.


    ¡°I wanted to catch fish to make soup for Dad.¡± Qiao Dami lowered his head. Fear was evident on his thin, dark face as he weakly exined, ¡°Tong Brother was the one who saved me.¡±


    ¡°Thank you, Tong Brother,¡± Qiao Xiaomai hastily expressed gratitude.


    Qiao Changshun also approached, thanking him repeatedly, ¡°Sang, thank you, thank goodness you saved Dami.¡±


    Tong Sang¡¯s tranquil, dark eyes swept over the Sun and Zhu Cuiying, released Qiao Dami¡¯s hand, and looked at Qiao Changshun, ¡°I just happened to be passing by. What¡¯s the matter?¡±


    Qiao Changshun took hold of Qiao Dami¡¯s hand and lowered his head.


    Family shame is not to be aired in public, whether it was his wife eloping with a rogue or his mother forcing him to sell his house and daughter, all of these made it impossible for him to raise his head.


    Contrarily, Qiao Xiaomai didn¡¯t care about these things and quickly said, ¡°Tong Brother, it¡¯s good you¡¯ve arrived. My grandmother is forcing my father to sell me to the brothel, and my aunt is nning to buy our house for five taels of silver. Could you please judge for us how to deal with this situation.¡±


    Tong Sang fixed his gaze on Qiao Xiaomai, surprise flickering in his calm eyes, his eyebrows furrowing slightly as he began, ¡°ording to the Daqi Laws, those guilty of selling people are subjected to a carving punishment, which involves carving off flesh, breaking arms and legs, and finally severing the throat.¡±


    Sun¡¯s and Zhu Cuiying, who was about to refute Qiao Xiaomai, were taken aback.


    Tong Sang continued, ¡°Daqi Laws also state that those who confiscate others¡¯ properties through violence, coercion, or other means are subjected to a caning punishment ording to severity, and sentenced to serve a three to five-yearbor service.¡±


    Sun¡¯s and Zhu Cuiying¡¯s bodies both shivered.


    Tong Sang looked back at Qiao Xiaomai, speaking, ¡°If you wish to sue them, I can go find my grandfather right away, who will send some people to escort these two to the government office.¡±


    ¡°Sue!¡± Qiao Xiaomai nodded firmly.


    Sun immediately shrieked, her voice piercing: ¡°Tong Sang, you can¡¯t word it like that! I was doing this for Changsun¡¯s sake! If he can¡¯t pay his taxes, he will have tobor! How did I and Cuiying turn out to be the bad people in the mouth of that ungrateful wench?!¡±


    ¡°My father doesn¡¯t need your kind of help. Don¡¯t worry about the tax silver,¡± Qiao Xiaomai retorted.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry? And how are you and Changsun going toe up with enough tax silver?!¡± Zhu Cuiying shrilly countered.


    ¡°Why should I tell you our means of making money?¡± Qiao Xiaomai squinted her eyes, turning her gaze to Tong Sang, ¡°Tong brother, please be sure to invite the Vige Chief. I want to sue them, they want to sell me to the brothel, I will risk my life to sue!¡±


    Tong Sang recognized the determination on her pretty face and acknowledged, ¡°Alright.¡±


    He then strode towards the exit of the courtyard.


    Zhu Cuiying, witnessing this, started to panic and hastily tugged at Sun¡¯s sleeve.


    Sun¡¯s aged face alternated between dark and bright clouds. She stood, pping the dirt off her body, and spoke bitterly, ¡°Tong Sang, wait, we¡¯ll leave it be this time.¡±


    ¡°Changsun,¡± she said, ring at Qiao Changshun, ¡°the offer stands, if you really can¡¯t pay the tax silver, return to your old home, the five taels of silver are ready. You can take it anytime you wish.¡±


    ¡°What isn¡¯t yours, better not keep holding on to it, lest there be more retribution.¡±

 Chapter 5 - 5: I Have Ways to Make Money

    5 Chapter 5: I Have Ways to Make Money


    Trantor: 549690339


    Qiao Changshun shivered at the words ¡°retribution,¡± keeping his head down without a word.


    Sun Family hmphed, walking toward the door.


    Zhu Cuiying red at Qiao Xiaomai and said, ¡°There will be a time when you beg me!¡± With these words, she stormed off angrily.


    Qiao Xiaomai approached and thanked Tong Sang once more.


    Tong Sang didn¡¯t reply, only gave her a nod and then left.


    Left in the courtyard were Qiao Xiaomai, Qiao Dami, and Qiao Changshun.


    Qiao Xiaomai closed the courtyard gate again, blocking out the curious eyes.


    ¡°Xiaomai¡­¡± Qiao Changshun finally spoke up, his dark face wrinkled, ¡°If it trulyes to that, we will just have to sell the house. What we don¡¯t deserve, we shouldn¡¯t take.¡±


    ¡°Dad, don¡¯t listen to the vige gossips.¡± Qiao Xiaomai walked to Qiao Dami, taking the broken pottery jar in his hands and added, ¡°I will figure out the tax silver issue.¡±


    ¡°What can you do?¡± Qiao Changshun sighed heavily, his back hunched and face filled with worry. ¡°Don¡¯t push yourself too hard. We can sell the house. I promise, even in death, I will not lead you into the fire.¡±


    ¡°Talk about dying! Dad, bring out the small mill. I promised I have a way to earn money, I¡¯m not bluffing.¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡± Qiao Changshun was puzzled.


    ¡°Just follow my instructions.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai poured the dozen or so small fish from the pottery jar into a basin of water and found ayer of river snails at the bottom. She put them together, ¡°Dami, go inside and change your wet clothes.¡±


    Qiao Dami had expected to be scolded by Qiao Xiaomai. Hearing her words, he breathed a sigh of relief and scampered into the house.


    Qiao Xiaomai entered the Grocery Room and brought out a dozen sweet potatoes.


    That was all she had left at home now.


    She peeled and chopped the sweet potatoes into small pieces, then put them into the small mill about a foot long, adding water, and bit by bit ground them into sweet potato paste.


    ¡°Xiaomai, what are you doing with this?¡± Qiao Changshun, sitting by the side, asked curiously.


    Qiao Dami also tilted his small head, his shiny eyes unwaveringly fixed on her actions.


    ¡°I am preparing to make sweet potato starch and turn it into jelly to sell in town.¡± Qiao Xiaomai replied.


    Sweet potatoes only arrived in Daqi a few years ago. Rumor has it that seafarers brought them from overseas. Because they are easy to grow, have high yields, they quickly spread throughout Qi Country.


    However, most people here either roast or boil them, the variety of ways to consume them was limited. So her sweet potato starch was a novel item to sell in town, surely it would bring in some earnings.


    ¡°Will this method really work?¡± Qiao Changshun was somewhat dubious.


    ¡°You¡¯ll see when I finish it.¡± Qiao Xiaomai replied.


    Qiao Changshun looked at her, his lips trembling slightly before he asked hesitantly, ¡°Xiaomai, your mother, she¡­¡±


    ¡°Life goes on whether she is here or not.¡±


    Although she had only been here for three days, she understood Zhuang Luhe¡¯s actions. For Luhe to hold on till now, she was already very benevolent.


    Qiao Changshun looked at her and sighed heavily.


    Qiao Dami didn¡¯t know about Zhuang Luhe¡¯s departure. He tilted his head and asked, ¡°Sis, didn¡¯t mom go to town? When will she be back?¡±


    ¡°Mom went to County Town to work and earn silver, so she won¡¯t be back for a long time.¡± Qiao Xiaomai casually made up a lie. Dami was only seven years old. When he got older, she would tell him the truth. She didn¡¯t have the patience to deal with children now.


    She was leading afortable life in the future when she was inexplicably hit by a car and sent here, and she had yet to vent her frustration at meeting this problematic family.


    ¡°Dami, grandma will definitely say mom abandoned us, don¡¯t believe her or the vige rumors. And don¡¯t tell anyone that mom has gone to earn money, otherwise, grandma will definitelye asking for money. Got it?¡±


    As Qiao Xiaomai turned the mill, she reminded him, ¡°Don¡¯t mind those people, you just have to listen to your sister.¡±

 Chapter 6 - 6: Field Snails

    6 Chapter 6: Field Snails


    Trantor: 549690339


    Qiao Dami obediently responded, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, sister, I won¡¯t tell!¡±


    When silver was mentioned, Qiao Dami nodded heavily.


    Seeing this, Qiao Changshun couldn¡¯t help but sigh, ¡°Perhaps it was best that she left, it wasn¡¯t her fault.¡±


    Zhuang L¨¹he had been married to him for sixteen years, never spending a single day at ease, he had failed her.


    Qiao Xiaomai, hearing these words, raised her head to give him a look, ¡°Father.¡±


    Her tone was tinged with a subtle dissatisfaction.


    With Qiao Dami still there and Qiao Changshun saying these things, hadn¡¯t he exposed the lie she just made up?


    Qiao Changshun raised his rough hand and pped his dry, cracked lips, his expression somewhat regretful. ¡°You continue grinding here, I am going to take some sweet potatoes to your Aunt Gun¡¯s ce and exchange them for some dark flour.¡±


    Dark flour is not actually ck, it is wheat bran ¨C the residue from ground wheat, also known as bran. Its texturepared to carefully-ground fine flour is far inferior.


    ¡°Alright,¡± Qiao Xiaomai responded, her mouth¡¯s motion not stopping.


    Qiao Changshun quickly stood up, went to the kitchen to grab roughly ten pounds of sweet potatoes, and headed over to Aunt Gun¡¯s house on the east side, where he exchanged it for two pounds of dark flour.


    As sweet potatoes are high yield, their price is low. Therefore, five pounds of sweet potatoes could only be exchanged for one pound of dark flour.


    But Aunt Gun was kind-hearted. In addition to the dark flour, she gave him half a pound of millet.


    Millet is actually small rice grains, yellow in color. It could either be cooked into porridge or steamed and eaten in. Millet held the same staple position in people¡¯s diets as wheat.


    Seeing the things in Qiao Changshun¡¯s hands, Qiao Xiaomai said, ¡°Father, you grind the grain. I¡¯ll go wash the river snails that Dami fished up.¡±


    ¡°It was not me who fished them, it was Brother Tong. I only caught a few tiny fish,¡± Qiao Dami said truthfully.


    Qiao Xiaomai red at him upon hearing his words, her little face stern, ¡°I didn¡¯t scold you earlier because it was chaotic at home, but if you dare to go to the river alone again, see if I don¡¯t wack you!¡±


    Upon hearing this, Qiao Dami shrunk his head in fear and admitted his mistake with a bowed head, ¡°Sister, I won¡¯t dare next time.¡±


    ¡°Dami was only trying to bring home some extra food,¡± Qiao Changshun took over grinding the sweet potatoes from Qiao Xiaomai and tried to soothe her at the same time.


    ¡°He is still young. If we want to supplement our meals, I will catch them tomorrow.¡± Qiao Xiaomai said, standing up and walking towards the kitchen.


    She took out an old wooden basin used for washing vegetables, lifted the cover off the bowl containing pig fat, dropped a few droplets of oil into the basin with a spoon, and then sprinkled in some coarse sea salt from the jar.


    She carried the wooden basin outside the kitchen and slipped a bunch of TR?NG ESCARGOT snails from another bowl into the basin, then she poured the water out and ced the empty wooden basin on top, like a lid.


    She held two wooden basins in her hands, shaking them as if she were rolling dice.


    This was a clever method of quickly cleaning escargot that she had frequently used before.


    Both Qiao Changshun and Qiao Dami found her movements novel. Qiao Changshun asked, ¡°Why do you wash them like this?¡±


    ¡°This method is faster. I want to use these escargots to cook a dish to thank Tong Sanlong.¡±


    Tong Sanlong was the Vige Chief¡¯s grandson and was highly regarded by the chief. Living in the vige, it was necessary to maintain good rtions with the Vige Chief. Besides, Tong Sanlong had saved Qiao Dami¡¯s life today, so cooking a dish to thank him was onlymon courtesy.


    Qiao Changshun agreed with this thinking. He said to Qiao Dami, ¡°Go and help your sister stoke the fire.¡±


    Qiao Dami stood up and jogged into the kitchen.


    In those days, there were no matches or lighters. To start a fire, one had to use a flint, which involved striking two stones together to create sparks which would then fall onto tinder. Only then, by adding other firewood carefully, would the fire start sessfully.


    Although Qiao Dami was young, he was quite adept at starting fires. After getting the fire going as instructed, he added more water to the pot ording to Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s instruction and started to heat it up on a high me.


    By the time Qiao Xiaomai had finished washing the thirty or so snails, he had just managed to bring the water to a boil.

 Chapter 7 - 7: You Are Deliberately Seducing

    7 Chapter 7: You Are Deliberately Seducing


    Trantor: 549690339


    Qiao Xiaomai poured the snails into the pot to cook them for a while. Once the meat was cooked, she removed the snails from the pot. After that, she carefully removed the snail meat, pairing it with a small amount of chopped pork, and added salt and other seasonings to the mince.


    She then stuffed the seasoned mince back into the snail shells.


    Indeed, she intended to make Brewed Snail.


    For the Qiao family, who usually relied on boiled vegetables for their meals, this dish was incredibly intricate. Qiao Dami watched Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s movements with wide eyes, breathing in the delicate fragrance wafting from the kitchen, constantly swallowing his saliva.


    ¡°Sister, you are making such a good dish?¡± he asked.


    Snail was a type of meat dish,bined with pork, it must be really delicious!


    Qiao Xiaomai turned around and looked at him, and smiled, ¡°Brother Tong saved you. Of course, we have to offer our best to thank him. Besides, your sister will soon be able to earn enough pork.¡±


    Three days ago, there was a wedding in the vige. She and Zhuang Luhe helped to prepare the feast, and the host had given them two kilograms of pork as a thank-you gift. That was where the pork oil and the meat she¡¯d just chopped came from.


    Zhuang Luhe was frugal and usually only boiled her vegetables, adding very little salt. However, now that Luhe had left, the Qiao¡¯s kitchen was under Xiaomai¡¯s charge, and she could prepare food however she wished.


    After hearing her exnation, Qiao Dami echoed in slight shame. He¡¯d only thought about the pork and forgotten about Brother Tong¡¯s kindness¡­


    Qiao Xiaomai nced at him again, knowing what he was thinking, and continued to instruct him while busying with her tasks.


    When the minced meat was all stuffed back into the snail shells, she poured the meat-stuffed snails back into the pot and stewed them over low heat, adding seasonings such as green onions, ginger, garlic, soy sauce, and Cornelian Cherry.


    There were no chili peppers in this time and space, and any spice in their food came from ginger and Cornelian Cherry, which was difficult for the spice-loving Qiao Xiaomai to adjust to.


    Although she had chili peppers in her space, she didn¡¯t dare to bring them out, so she had to endure.


    The Brewed Snail was quickly ready, and the aroma filled the entire kitchen. Qiao Changshun, who was grinding sweet potatoes at the kitchen door, couldn¡¯t help but praise, ¡°Your cooking skills have improved again.¡±


    Meanwhile, Qiao Dami was staring intently at therge pot, his eyes burning with desire.


    Qiao Xiaomaiughed and responded. When the soup in the pot was almost reduced, she lifted the lid and transferred the snails to a te.


    Just over thirty snails, enough for a te. She picked up five with chopsticks and ced them in a bowl, ¡°We¡¯ll eat this when we get back. Now let¡¯s quickly deliver this te to Third Brother Tong before it gets cold.¡±


    ¡°Alright!¡± Qiao Dami responded brightly.


    Then, Qiao Xiaomai put the te of Brewed Snail into a small basket, called out to Qiao Changshun, then took Qiao Dami by the hand and headed towards the Vige Chief¡¯s home.


    The Vige Chief¡¯s house was on the east side of Anping Vige, and the tall brick-tiled house was very conspicuous. As Qiao Xiaomai led Qiao Dami there, they attracted many stares along the way.


    In ancient times, entertainment was scarce, especially when it came to gossip like a wife running away with another man. Zhuang Luhe¡¯s story spread through Anping Vige at lightning speed.


    Qiao Xiaomai appeared unaffected, carrying the basket in one hand, and holding Dami¡¯s hand in the other, they arrived at the doorway to the Vige Chief¡¯s house in about fifteen minutes.


    By this time, it was getting dark. As Qiao Xiaomai was about to knock on the metal door, it opened from the inside and Zhu Cuiying walked out.


    Qiao Xiaomai frowned slightly, pulling Qiao Dami a few steps back.


    Upon seeing Qiao Xiaomai and Qiao Dami, Zhu Cuiying was taken aback. Then, with a mocking tone, she said, ¡°Well, what brings you here?¡±


    ¡°We are here to express our gratitude to Third Brother Tong for saving Dami.¡± Qiao Xiaomai replied softly, not wanting to stir up trouble at someone else¡¯s doorstep.


    ¡°Tsk.¡± Zhu Cuiying looked Qiao Xiaomai up and down, then scoffed, ¡°It seems like you¡¯re using the excuse of expressing gratitude to lure in a good catch. With Third Brother Tong¡¯s good qualities, how could a cunning vixen like you pass him up?¡±

 Chapter 8 - 8: Fight Back

    8 Chapter 8: Fight Back


    Trantor: 549690339


    Qiao Xiaomai ¡°¡­¡±


    Because Jiang Zhuangzhuang liked the original owner and the original owner¡¯s appearance didn¡¯t look much like a virtuous woman, she got a nickname called Qiao Fox, given by those who secretly wanted to marry Jiang Zhuangzhuang.


    Qiao Xiaomai didn¡¯t mind, this nickname was a roundabout recognition of the original owner¡¯s looks. Qiao Fox sounded better than Qiao Ugly Monster.


    But under the present circumstances¡­.


    Qiao Xiaomai looked at Zhu Cuiying¡¯s contemptuous eyes, and the mole on her face, blinked and said, ¡°What you think inside is what you see outside. Aunt, it turns out that what you have on your mind is all about seducing men, huh?¡±


    ¡°You!¡± Zhu Cuiying¡¯s face changed, and she cursed, ¡°I guess Dami deliberately fell into the river today and tempted Tong Sang to save her, giving you this vixen an opportunity to take the initiative to make ingratiating moves!¡±


    ¡°No wonder you never wanted to marry stupid Jiang Zhuangzhuang¡¯s son; turns out you set your sights on Tong Sang. Well nned indeed!¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai ¡°¡­¡±


    Pure imagination is a disease that needs to be treated!


    The expression on her little face suddenly darkened, saying, ¡°Aunt, if you say Dami deliberately fell into the water, then show me the evidence, otherwise, I will take this matter to the Vige Chief.¡±


    The negative impact this incident had on Zhuang L¨¹he and herself was huge. If Zhu Cuiying could conjure up so much in front of her, Heaven knows what she might say behind her back.


    This matter must be rified today!


    Zhu Cuiying snorted, ¡°Anyone with clear eyes can see the intentions of you siblings. Do you guys really believe that others are blind?!¡±


    Just as Qiao Xiaomai was about to retort, a voice was heard from behind the iron gate. The tone was very cold, ¡°Aunt Zhu, it turns out that you know more about this matter than I do. Did you witness the time they were discussing this?¡±


    With that, Tong Sang¡¯s tall figure appeared in the doorway, his handsome face as grim as water.


    Seeing Tong Sang, Qiao Xiaomai swallowed the words she was about to say.


    Zhu Cuiying was startled, she turned around and seeing the grim face of Tong Sang, quickly restrained the hateful expression on her face and forced a smile, ¡°Sang, howe you are out? I was just joking with this girl.¡±


    Joking?


    Qiao Xiaomai rolled her eyes when she heard this and asked, ¡°Aunt, when my father jokes with my cousin and cousin sister, does he also start by saying my cousin is sly and my cousin sister is seducing men?¡±


    ¡°What are you talking about, you girl!¡± Zhu Cuiying¡¯s face changed.


    ¡°I was following your lead in joking.¡± Qiao Xiaomai stared at her innocently.


    Being reproached by Qiao Xiaomai in front of Tong Sang, Zhu Cuiying was somewhat annoyed and embarrassed ¡°I just casually said a few words and you are making a big deal out of it. I am your elder after all, is this how you talk to your elders?¡±


    Before Qiao Xiaomai could respond to her words, Tong Sang spoke first, ¡°Aunt Zhu, Xiaomai just mentioned the issue at hand, you are the one making a big fuss out of it and teaching her a lesson. She is your niece after all, is this how you joke with your niece?¡±


    Zhu Cuiying ¡°¡­¡±


    She never expected that Tong Sang would use her own reasoning against her.


    ¡°Sang, I¡­¡±


    ¡°Aunt Zhu, no need to say more. If you can¡¯t correct your gossiping habit, you shouldn¡¯te to the Tong¡¯s house in the future. I, Tong Sang, can¡¯t stand your fabrications,¡± Tong Sang¡¯s face was grave, his words shocked Zhu Cuiying.


    She often visited the Tong family, because she had important things to do!

 Chapter 9 - 9: Let’s Run First!

    9 Chapter 9: Let¡¯s Run First!


    Trantor: 549690339


    ¡°Sang, listen to me¡­¡±


    Zhu Cuiying was about to exin, but she was interrupted by Qiao Xiaomai this time.


    Qiao Xiaomai quickly walked up to Tong Sang, handed him the basket she was holding, and spoke loudly and quickly, ¡°Brother Tong San, thank you for saving Dami today. I specially made a dish for you, please try it.¡±


    As she said this, she thrust the basket containing the brewed snail into Tong Sang¡¯s hands before he could refuse, then grabbed Qiao Dami and started running, ¡°Brother Tong, our father is waiting for us to eat at home, we have to go!¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai had no choice but to run. Zhuang Luhe¡¯s departure was indeed a disgrace for her and Qiao Dami. Although Zhu Cuiying was ndering them, she couldn¡¯t guarantee that Tong Sang wouldn¡¯t harbor any misconceptions.


    Tong Sang¡¯s previous words seemed to help her, but there was also a hint of disassociating himself from the situation.


    So now that Zhu Cuiying had been scolded, there was no need for her to stay any longer.


    To avoid any misunderstanding, Qiao Xiaomai ran as fast as she could. She ran for a few minutes and finally stopped when she no longer could see Tong Sang¡¯s figure after rounding a bend.


    Qiao Dami was panting as he held her hand and asked, ¡°Sister, aren¡¯t we going to take our dish back?¡±


    Even though it was a crude ceramic dish that was of no value, their family was so poor¡­


    Qiao Xiaomai ¡°¡­¡±


    She had been so focused on getting away that she had forgotten about the dish!


    If the Tong family returned the dish, Zhu Cuiying and others like her would definitely construe her actions as coquettish!


    Maybe even Tong Sang would think so!


    Moistening her lips, Qiao Xiaomai set down the basket she was holding and instructed Qiao Dami, ¡°You go get the dish back, hurry up, I¡¯ll wait for you here.¡±


    Qiao Dami obediently responded and then ran towards the Tong family¡¯s house.


    After ten minutes, Qiao Dami returned with Tong Sang following him.


    Qiao Dami was holding a dish, and Tong Sang was carrying a sack.


    Qiao Xiaomai was surprised and her peach blossom eyes opened wide in astonishment. What was going on?


    ¡°Sister!¡± Qiao Dami ran a few steps towards her, happily taking her hand and said looking up, ¡°Brother Tong said he would lend us a sack of grain, and we can give it back when we have it.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Qiao Xiaomai subconsciously asked, ¡°Did you plead poverty?¡±


    ¡°No!¡± Qiao Dami quickly shook his head.


    ¡°Dami didn¡¯t beg, it was grandfather who initiated the offer.¡± Tong Sang exined, ¡°My grandfather, the vige chief, has an obligation to help his fellow vigers in times of difficulty.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai ¡°¡­¡±


    How did the vige chief know that her family had run out of grain?


    Unknown to her, before she went home, Qiao Changshun had already inspected the flour jar at home, and the women who were watching the scene at the door saw it.


    So not only did the news of Zhuang Luhe running out on them spread throughout the vige, but also the fact that she took away all the family property.


    ¡°Thank you, Brother Tong, but my family is getting by for the time being. If we really run out of food, I¡¯ll ask Brother Tong for help.¡± Qiao Xiaomai said.


    Searching the previous host¡¯s memories, she found that the vige head had never offered a hand when the Qiao family faced difficulties in the past. What did he want to do by helping so actively this time?


    Moreover, with her around, the Qiao family could get through this difficulty. Debt of gratitude was the hardest to repay, it wasn¡¯t owed if it could be avoided.


    With that in mind, Qiao Xiaomai took the dish from Qiao Dami¡¯s hand and put it back in the basket. Then she took Qiao Dami¡¯s hand and started running, ¡°Brother Tong, we¡¯re going home! Our father is waiting for us to eat!¡±


    Tong Sang, holding a sack of millet, was left speechless ¡°¡­¡±

 Chapter 10 - 10 Her Background

    10 Chapter 10 Her Background


    Trantor: 549690339


    When Qiao Xiaomai and her brother returned home, Qiao Changshun had already ground all the sweet potatoes into a pulp, filling a whole bucket with the moist residue.


    Qiao Xiaomai washed a couple handfuls of corn kernels for Qiao Dami to make into porridge while she found arge piece of hemp cloth to use as a filter screen. She and Qiao Changshun screened the sweet potato residue together, a crucial step in making sweet potato starch.


    Watching Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s adept movements, Qiao Changshun harbored some doubts, ¡°Xiaomai, how do you know doing it this way can get that ¡­what do you call it, starch?¡±


    ¡°I tried it randomly before, I just didn¡¯t get a chance to tell mother.¡± Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s answer was incredibly perfunctory.


    Both Zhuang L¨¹he and the person she reced were good at cooking, so this excuse worked quite well.


    True enough, once she said that, Qiao Changshun immediately made the connection with Zhuang L¨¹he. He sighed, stopped questioning her and simply did as she instructed.


    By the time they finished filtering the sweet potato residue, Qiao Dami had also finished cooking the millet porridge.


    The amount of rice grains Qiao Xiaomai had added were few, making for a thin, watery dish that served only to fill their bellies with liquid.


    She only drank half a bowl of the watery soup, leaving the rice grains and the five river snails for Qiao Dami and Qiao Changshun.


    It¡¯s not because her affection for her stepfather and half-brother ran deep. She had something to eat in her space; she could sneak in a mealter in the evening.


    After eating a simple dinner, the family of three went to bed.


    The Qiao Family¡¯s residence consisted of three tile-roofed rooms: the central hall was the living room; the room to the left was for Qiao Changsun and Zhuang L¨¹he; the room to the right was Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s.


    Even though money was tight, the oilmp was briefly lit during mealtime, only to be quickly extinguished afterwards. That night, with the help of the moonlighting from the window, Qiao Xiaomai secretly ate some bread from her spatial storage.


    She was originally just a recent university graduate. She belonged to a well-off family and battled her stepmother, terrible father, and useless younger brother for more than ten years. She finally caught her stepmother¡¯s affair and threw out her stepmother and lousy brother. Her awful father also copsed due to this incident.


    Just when she was about to seize control of the family, she was hit by a car and time-traveled.


    Not only did she time-travel, but she also ended up in the body of a poor girl whose family was rmingly downtrodden.


    With food scarcity and her mother leaving them, her father disabled and her brother young, the responsibility fell upon her to shoulder the family¡¯s burdens.


    What a depressing situation!


    At this thought, she chewed her bread with greater fervor.


    Well, she managed to kick out her useless stepmother and brother. Her terrible father was paralyzed, and in doing so, she avenged the mistreatment suffered by her biological mother and herself over the years.


    With nothing left for her in her modern life, she decided to start afresh here.


    Reminiscing these thoughts, Qiao Xiaomai wiped her mouth and resisted the urge to have another piece.


    Her spatial storage was coincidentally acquired and only about the size of a ser field. It wasn¡¯t very useful in modern society, and aside from storing daily necessities, most of what she stored was food.


    She loved cooking and was quite the foodie. However, no matter how much food she had stored, it would eventually run out, so she had to eat sparingly.


    Now that Zhuang L¨¹he had left, and Qiao Changshun was na?ve andcked ambition, and Qiao Dami was young, she had to n for their future survival.


    With her mind filled with a jumble of thoughts, she atst fell into a deep slumber after a long while.


    The next morning, after waking up, she first went to check on the sweet potato starch that they had prepared the previous night.


    The starch had settled at the bottom of the water bucket. She poured out the clear water, scooped out the starch, ced it in a wooden basin, and left it to dry in the sun.


    It was a beautiful day with plenty of sunshine. By evening, she could begin making starch jelly.


    The thought invigorated Qiao Xiaomai. She quickly washed up and began to prepare breakfast.

 Chapter 11 - 11: Jelly

    11 Chapter 11: Jelly


    Trantor: 549690339


    The most abundant food at home right now was the sweet potato, and so breakfast was Xiaomi sweet potato porridge with wheat bran pancakes.


    A lot of the ck flour Qiao Changshun traded for in Aunt Gun¡¯s home was wheat husk; she mixed in the sweet potato pulp filtered out the night before, and used oil to fry three pancakes.


    Seeing her extravagance, Qiao Changshun couldn¡¯t help but interject, ¡°They can be steamed as raw dough in the pot.¡±


    Frying with oil was a waste.


    They had to pay taxes in a month¡¯s time, they had to save where they could.


    Qiao Xiaomai suppressed her urge to roll her eyes. Qiao Changshun was especially capable of enduring hardship, but the money and food he saved, apart from barely keeping them, a family of four, from starving, were all given to the Sun family.


    Zhuang Luhe had tolerated this for so many years before running away, truly reaching the limit of both benevolence and righteousness.


    ¡°Dad, things are not saved, they are earned. Let¡¯s eat at ease, we will have money soon.¡± Qiao Xiaomai persuaded him patiently.


    ¡°Can that starch really make money?¡± Qiao Changshun was somewhat incredulous.


    ¡°Wait until you taste what I make tonight.¡± Qiao Xiaomai said, pinching a pancake and handing it to Qiao Dami, ¡°Eat up quickly, and thene with me to gather firewood.¡±


    Qiao Dami didn¡¯t think as much as Qiao Changshun, he happily epted the pancake, thanked his sister, and started eating.


    The wheat husk didn¡¯t have a good mouthfeel, it was irritating to the throat, and the sweet potato pulp was also somewhat throat-irritating, but food with this kind of texture was always staple food in the Qiao family, and Qiao Dami had long gotten used to it.


    Now there was a bit of oil, fragrant, the taste was marvellous!


    Seeing Qiao Dami eating so sweetly, Qiao Changshun¡¯s eyes got a little hot and he stopped talking.


    Oh well, it was a rare splurge after all.


    After eating an irritating breakfast, Qiao Xiaomai took a length of rope, carrying a basket and went with Qiao Dami to the mountain to gather firewood. When it was evening, she saw that the starch had dried, and started making bean jelly.


    The dried starch were white and fine. The chunky starch was ground into powder, water was added and stirred into a paste.


    Then, a certain amount of water was added to the pot. When the water boiled, the starch paste was slowly added to the pot, constantly stirring with chopsticks.


    Once the water in the potpletely solidified, bing the brown bean jelly, it could be taken out of the pot.


    Qiao Changshun and Qiao Dami looked at this scene, the father and son were both a bit surprised, ¡°Xiaomai, this starch is white, howe it turns this color once heated?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know either. As long as it¡¯s not poisonous and can be eaten.¡± Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s answer was simple and crude.


    She scooped the bean jelly out of the pot, cut it into small pieces, then added oil, salt, and Cornelian sauce, and simply mixed it cold.


    After getting it ready, she took a bite with her chopsticks. Natural and pollution-free. The taste was quite good, it¡¯s just that the vor of the Cornelian wasn¡¯t as authentic as chili.


    ¡°Sis, is it tasty?¡± Qiao Dami watched her eagerly.


    Qiao Xiaomai couldn¡¯t help but startughing. She took out two pairs of chopsticks and gave them to Qiao Changshun and Qiao Dami to let the two of them try it out.


    It was soft, springy, andpletely free from the taste of sweet potato, but it tasted good. For the father and son of the Qiao family who were used to eating irritating food, this delicate bean jelly was as good as meat!


    ¡°Xiaomai, this tastes really good.¡± Qiao Changshun praised.


    ¡°Tasty, tasty, tasty.¡± Qiao Dami¡¯s little head was nodding like a chicken pecking at rice; his chopsticks were working non-stop, his cheeks were bulging out.


    There was more to Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s soft and beautiful face¡¯s smile, ¡°Dad, now do you believe that the bean jelly can make money?¡±


    ¡°It can sell, it can sell, Xiaomai is really clever and capable.¡± Qiao Changshun praised. He said it and put down his chopsticks, ¡°I will go grind some more sweet potatoes, to make more starch.¡±

 Chapter 12 - 12 Seller’s Son

    12 Chapter 12 Seller¡¯s Son


    Trantor: 549690339


    Qiao Xiaomai didn¡¯t stop Qiao Changshun, she also put down her chopsticks and went to help wash a sweet potato.


    ¡°Dad, I n to go to town tomorrow. The sweet potato starch I made tonight won¡¯t be ready in time.¡±


    ¡°Why the rush? Aren¡¯t you waiting to make some more to sell?¡± Qiao Changshun was surprised.


    ¡°No, I n to sell the recipe directly to the restaurant.¡±


    It¡¯s now the start of spring, and there isn¡¯t much stored sweet potato remaining in each household. If she sets up a stall, it won¡¯tst long before she runs out.


    Moreover, setting up a stall requires a variety of items. The mostmon method of making jelly is by frying, which requires a cart, charcoal fire, salt, oil, and other seasonings. Given the Qiao Family¡¯s poverty, and the urgent need to pay the Spring Tax, it¡¯s better to just sell the recipe to the restaurant.


    Qiao Changshun looked at Qiao Xiaomai in shock, ¡°You want to sell the recipe? Do you understand how valuable a recipe can be¡­¡±


    ¡°I know how valuable a recipe is.¡± Qiao Xiaomai interrupted Qiao Changshun, sharing her thoughts with him, ¡°This is abor-intensive job which requires money. The three of us can¡¯t handle it, and it¡¯s not long until we have to pay the Spring Tax.¡±


    ¡°But¡­¡± Qiao Changshun¡¯s face, which had just rxed, creased again. By holding onto the recipe and slowly umting wealth, their family¡¯s situation could certainly improve. It¡¯s not easy to develop a unique recipe and selling it just like that seemed like killing the goose thatys the golden eggs.


    ¡°It¡¯s OK, I have other ways of making money. If I sell this, I won¡¯t feel bad about it.¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡± Qiao Changshun was even more perplexed.


    ¡°Sweet potatoes can be ground like this, so can beans. Let me try it after I sell the recipe.¡± said Qiao Xiaomai.


    There was no such thing as tofu in the previous host¡¯s memories. Since it didn¡¯t exist, she would have to make it and earn money from it.


    Qiao Changshun ¡°¡­¡±


    He looked at Qiao Xiaomai with astonishment, examining her from head to toe as if he didn¡¯t recognize her, ¡°Xiaomai, you and before¡­¡±


    The previous Qiao Xiaomai only knew how to work quietly, rarely speaking up.


    Yet now, she had her own ideas and ways to make money. This was such a big change.


    ¡°If I don¡¯t stand my ground, the three of us would definitely be picked clean by those people at the Old Yard.¡± As she said this, Qiao Xiaomai kept on cleaning the mud off the surface of the sweet potato.


    In this family, the only person who was really shrewd was Zhuang Luhe.


    Now that Zhuang Luhe was gone, her off-hand made-up reasons could easily fool both Qiao Changshun and Qiao Dami.


    As expected, upon hearing her words, Qiao Changshun instantly felt ufortable.


    He had always been obedient and filial, but despite that, he had not managed to earn the Sun Family¡¯s affection for decades. Even his wife had run away.


    How did ite to this?


    He had clearly tried his best.


    Qiao Xiaomai looked at Qiao Changshun¡¯s wrinkled old face, saying nothing more.


    Qiao Changshun had been honest for arge part of his life, and was oppressed by the Sun Family and Zhu Cuiying for just as long. Now his wife had run away, his own leg was crippled, and his household was so poor they might need to sell the house any day now.


    Feeling upset? He must be. Only when one is upset does one start to think about why things turned out this way.


    With thoughtes change.


    Dinner was still simple millet porridge, still so clear you could use it as a mirror. But now that they had the jelly as well, the three of them had a satisfying meal.


    That night, Qiao Xiaomai didn¡¯t sneak any extra food. After waking up from a good night¡¯s sleep, she cooked Sweet Potato Millet Porridge again, and fried cakes made from wheat bran and sweet potato pulp. She filled her back basket with three jins of starch and a piece of jelly, and then began her journey on foot towards Bailu Town.


    Anping Vige was arge vige, with a poption of more than five thousand people. Old man Han in the vige owned a donkey cart, which he used tomute to and from the town every day. Each ride only cost one copper coin, but the Qiaos didn¡¯t even have a single copper coin, so she had to walk.

 Chapter 13 - 13: Unexpected Encounter at Jiewei Residence

    13 Chapter 13: Unexpected Encounter at Jiewei Residence


    Trantor: 549690339


    The sun rose, and the early morning in March still carried a bit of a chill. Qiao Xiaomai, with a basket on her back, encountered quite a few people heading towards the town along her journey.


    She didn¡¯t take the initiative to greet others, but if someone called out to her, she¡¯d return a smile and then continue on her way with her head lowered.


    Most of the people in the vige still had kind hearts. Though their gazes at her were a bit peculiar, they wouldn¡¯t intentionally pry into her wounds.


    Anping Vige was twenty li away from Bailu Town. Walking such a long distance at once left her somewhat breathless.


    After taking a break by the roadside, she headed into the town.


    Bailu Town was named after Bailu Academy, with a poption of more than thirty thousand. Its size couldpete with arge county town. It had three long streets running in each direction, and countless small alleys. Shops lined both sides of the streets, full of life and activity.


    The town had two restaurants, Jiwei Mansion and Zuixian Building, located at opposite ends of the main road, one east, and one west.


    Qiao Xiaomai walked from the east to the west and then back again, feeling indecisive.


    She didn¡¯t know much about these two restaurants. Which one should she sell her products to?


    In business, you must seek out someone who¡¯s honest and reliable.


    While she was vaciting about whether to ask both restaurants, a man walked out of Jiwei Mansion. He had a tall and straight figure, handsome features, healthy honey-colored skin, and a pair of serene ck eyes that held a hint of confusion. He approached Qiao Xiaomai and asked, ¡°Miss Qiao, what are you doing here?¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s eyes widened slightly, ¡°Brother Tong Third.¡±


    Tong Sang made a sound of acknowledgement. His gaze moved over the basket she was carrying and asked, ¡°Are you here to sell something?¡±


    It was not mealtime yet, and given the Qiao family¡¯s situation, they would not havee to Jiwei Mansion just to eat.


    Recalling the money-making method that Qiao Xiaomai told him about the day before, the only remaining possibility was that she had something to sell.


    Qiao Xiaomai made an affirmative sound. Her peach blossom-like eyes passed over Tong Sang¡¯s body. A light smile appeared on her face, and her corner lips held a faint dimple. She seemed extremely charming, ¡°I made some food and want to sell it for some silver. Brother Tong Third, how is Jiwei Mansion?¡±


    ¡°Very good. I asionally go hunting on the mountain, and the game I catch is always sent to Jiwei Mansion. The shopkeeper¡¯s reputation is quite good. If you¡¯re selling something, I can introduce you.¡± Tong Sang replied.


    Hearing this, Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s eyes lit up. She eagerly said, ¡°Yes, yes, thank you, Brother Tong Third.¡±


    Tong Sang turned and went into the door of Jiwei Mansion, saying ¡°Come in.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai hurried to keep up.


    Inside Jiwei Mansion, a waiter was wiping the tables and cleaning the floor in preparation for opening. Tong Sang greeted the wait staff cheerfully before leading Qiao Xiaomai to the backyard to meet the manager of the Jiwei Mansion.


    As they walked, he exined to Qiao Xiaomai, ¡°Jiwei Mansion has over twenty branches in Qi Country. The real owner is a prominent figure in the capital city. The daily affairs are managed by the shopkeeper, so if you ever have any fresh food to sell, you can bring it here.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai hastily nodded in agreement and thanked him again.


    The original owner of the body was merely a vige girl who was only aware of grinding away at work and cooking, having a very limited understanding of the world. This information was exactly what she needed at this point.


    The manager of Jiwei Mansion was a middle-aged man in his forties. His features weremon, his demeanor gentle, and he had a goatee. Dressed in a satin robe with a square hat on his head, he didn¡¯t look like a businessman, but rather a schr.


    ¡°This is Shopkeeper He.¡± Tong Sang introduced Xiaomai, ¡°Shopkeeper He, this is Miss Qiao from our Anping Vige. She¡¯s good at cooking. She brought some food today. You can take a look and see how much silver it¡¯s worth.¡±

 Chapter 14 - 14: I Want Fifty Tael

    14 Chapter 14: I Want Fifty Tael


    Trantor: 549690339


    After hearing Tong Sang¡¯s words, Shopkeeper He smiles at Qiao Xiaomai, ¡°Youngdy, what kind of food did you make?¡±


    A slightly nervous smile appeared on Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s face, she first greeted Shopkeeper He, then peered into her basket and said, ¡°This is the starch I made, which can be used for many dishes. This, liangfen (cold noodle jelly), is one of them.¡±


    The liangfen, slightlyrger than an adult¡¯s palm and weighing about a pound, was brown in color. Shopkeeper He and Tong Sang saw it for the first time.


    Qiao Xiaomai took out the big coarse porcin bowl filled with liangfen and ced it on the table, exining, ¡°It can be served cold or stir-fried. Shopkeeper He, you can let your chef try it with garlic sprouts. It tastes very good.¡±


    Shopkeeper He curiously pressed his hand on the liangfen, felt its soft and springy texture, and pointed to the white starch in the basket with surprise, ¡°You made this with this flour-like starch?¡±


    ¡°Yes,¡± Qiao Xiaomai responded hastily, ¡°I can demonstrate how it¡¯s made.¡±


    ¡°Oh? Are you nning to sell the recipe?¡± Shopkeeper He understood her intention.


    Tong Sang looked at her deeply without speaking.


    Qiao Xiaomai gave an embarrassed smile, ¡°Yes, I urgently need money for my home¡­¡±


    Shopkeeper He stroked his beard, ¡°I see. Youngdy, wait a moment, I will have someone make this liangfen. We will talk about the price after tasting it.¡±


    ¡°Okay,¡± Qiao Xiaomai quickly agreed.


    Then, Shopkeeper He gestured to a waiter to take the liangfen to the kitchen.


    Soon, delicious stir-fried liangfen was served. The liangfen was cut into small pieces, looking oily andbined with green garlic sprouts, its aroma went straight into the nostrils.


    Shopkeeper Heplimented the aroma first, then picked up his chopsticks and started tasting it with a smile.


    The Liangfen was tender, delicate, and tasted quite delicious. As heid down his chopsticks, he asked Qiao Xiaomai, ¡°Youngdy, can this starch be used for other recipes?¡±


    ¡°Yes. It can also be made into noodles for stir-fry or soup, it tastes great,¡± Qiao Xiaomai nervously watched Shopkeeper He.


    Earlier, she was pretending to be nervous, but now she was truly so. This was her first business deal, after all.


    Shopkeeper He, who was still smiling, looked approachable, but anyone who could manage such arge establishment couldn¡¯t be as easy-going as he appeared.


    As expected, Shopkeeper He asked again in a jovial tone, ¡°Youngdy, can you tell me how this starch is made? What ingredients does it require?¡±


    Blinking her watery peach blossom eyes that carried a glimmer of hope, Qiao Xiaomai inquired, ¡°Are you nning to buy it?¡±


    ¡°Of course, this liangfen tastes very good,¡± said Shopkeeper He, nodding and exining, ¡°It¡¯s a novel delicacy, but I need to know the ingredients and the method before I can offer you a fair price.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, our restaurant has an excellent reputation. We will definitely offer you a fair price.¡±


    ¡°The two of you should continue your discussion, I will leave now,¡± said Tong Sang, very tactfully, as he started walking out of the room.


    Wait till Tong Sang left, Qiao Xiaomai finally said, ¡°The main ingredient is sweet potatoes, it¡¯s cheap. But whether it¡¯s liangfen or noodles, the taste is good, and will definitely make a lot of money for the restaurant. I¡¯m selling you the dish along with the recipe. This is my offer.¡±


    She extended her hand with five fingers, ¡°Fifty taels.¡±


    Although sweet potatoes had been in Qi Country only for a few years, it was easy to cultivate and produce, so its price was very lowpared to other crops.


    However, the process of making liangfen and noodles was not simple. Asking for fifty taels wasn¡¯t too much.


    With over twenty branches of the restaurant throughout Daqi, it wouldn¡¯t be difficult to earn fifty taels back.

 Chapter 15 - 15 Calculating Accounts

    15 Chapter 15 Calcting ounts


    Trantor: 549690339


    Shopkeeper He stared at Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s callused fingers without uttering a word of protest. Instead, he stroked his beard, took out his abacus, and started calcting Xiaomai¡¯s ount.


    ¡°As for this stir-fried cold jelly, I think we should set the price at five Wen per serving. Miss, you¡¯re asking for fifty taels. One tael is a thousand Wen, so fifty taels would be fifty thousand Wen. If each serving costs five Wen, we would need to sell ten thousand servings to make fifty thousand Wen.¡±


    ¡°Taking all the misceneous costs into ount, I estimate we¡¯d need to sell twenty thousand servings to make fifty taels.¡±


    After the sound of the abacus beads clicking ended, Shopkeeper He raised his head, showing a troubled look on his face. ¡°Miss, we¡¯re almost at the end of spring now. Every household¡¯s stores of sweet potatoes aren¡¯t sufficient. It¡¯s going to be tough to earn those fifty taels back.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai, with her clear peach-blossom eyes, replied, ¡°But there¡¯s also the noodles. If we split the fifty-thousand goal between noodles and jelly, each would need to sell ten thousand servings. Spread that across the twenty-plus branches of Extreme vor Restaurant, each would only need to sell a little over five hundred servings.¡±


    ¡°Five hundred servings¡­ considering the business of Extreme vor, it could be done in just one or two months.¡±


    ¡°Shopkeeper, in just one or two months we could gain a recipe that will bring in money indefinitely. It¡¯s an important investment. If my family weren¡¯t in urgent need of silver, I wouldn¡¯t dream of letting it go.¡±


    Shopkeeper He stared at Xiaomai¡¯s expressive face and was momentarily stunned. Then, he burst outughing.


    He had deliberately inted the numbers to highlight the difficulty of profit, intending to lower the price.


    However, Xiaomai had managed to reduce his lofty fifty-thousand figure to just a month or two. Interesting, she was interesting.


    ¡°Miss, let¡¯s settle on fifty taels then,¡± said Shopkeeper He.


    At his words, Xiaomai felt her heart finally drop. But seeing the smile on Shopkeeper He¡¯s face, she couldn¡¯t help feeling vexed again. Had she asked for too little?


    Recouping fifty taels in just one or two months felt like too much of a bargain and she was indeed losing out.


    Noticing her disgruntled look, Shopkeeper He stroked his beard again and said, ¡°Miss, by the time I spread the news to the other branches, we¡¯ll probably have run out of sweet potatoes. If we want to make a profit, we¡¯ll have to wait until winter after the sweet potato harvest.¡±


    ¡°Throughout this time, we have to ensure the recipe doesn¡¯t leak out. Plus, there are all the costs of ingredients andbor. Trust me, earning money is not that easy.¡±


    Listenting to his words, Xiaomai showed a shy smile.


    For a restaurant chain with over twenty branches nationwide, how could earning fifty taels be difficult? His words were nothing but nonsense and held no convincing power at all.


    However, if she were to set up her own stall, who knows when she would make fifty taels? Considering her family¡¯s poverty back home and the spring tax due in a month, her frustration lessened somewhat.


    On thinking it through, she realized that she could also make tofu. And with the money, they could settle the urgent matters at hand, hence the fifty taels would suffice as spring tax and startup capital. All good.


    ¡°Let¡¯s draft a contract. It should state you won¡¯t resell this recipe on how to make starch cold jelly noodles to anyone else, and you also can¡¯t sell the food for profit.¡±


    ¡°Of course, I will only make it for my family,¡± Xiaomai agreed without objection, then added after a moment, ¡°I might give some to my neighbors to try.¡±


    ¡°As long as you are not doing it formercial profit and on arge scale, that¡¯s fine,¡± nodded Shopkeeper He in understanding. ¡°We¡¯ll get Tong Sang, who is literate. He can witness this.¡±


    ¡°Sure,¡± Xiaomai promptly agreed.


    As the original owner could not read, she would need Tong Sang, the grandson of the Vige Chief, to review this contract.

 Chapter 16 - 16: Let’s Go Together

    16 Chapter 16: Let¡¯s Go Together


    Trantor: 549690339


    Shopkeeper He took out his writing brush and paper, swiftly wrote the contract in traditional characters, which Qiao Xiaomai was able to read.


    As Shopkeeper He handed the finished document to Tong Sang, she immediately looked up to him, her always teary peach blossom eyes filled with anticipation.


    Tong Sang nced at the contract, read it aloud once, and said, ¡°There is no mistake, you can stamp your seal.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s face lit up with joy and she quickly expressed her gratitude.


    After the contract was stamped, Shopkeeper He asked, ¡°Youngdy, how are you nning to carry these fifty taels of silver back home?¡±


    ¡°Give me forty-five taels of silver and five strings of copper coins will do.¡±


    A string of copper coins weighs about six catties and five strings weigh about thirty catties.


    A tael of silver is approximately thirty-seven grams. Forty-five taels would be over three catties. Adding those altogether would be just over thirty catties, which is lighter than a bucket of purified water, she could totally handle it.


    ¡°Okay,¡± Shopkeeper He agreed readily. But he changed the subject and asked, ¡°Lady, when are you going to teach us how to make starch jelly noodles?¡±


    ¡°Right now is fine,¡± Qiao Xiaomai replied.


    ¡°Then you two continue, Miss Qiao, once you¡¯re done, you can find me at Tong¡¯s Vinegar Shop in the town. I came here by ox-cart and I can take you home then,¡± Tong Sang offered.


    ¡°Oh no, I wouldn¡¯t want to burden you, Brother Tong,¡± Qiao Xiaomai immediately shook her head.


    This Tong Sang was too enthusiastic.


    ¡°It¡¯s not a trouble at all. The load is heavy, it will be hard for you to carry, besides, it¡¯s not safe,¡± Tong Sang stared at Qiao Xiaomai with his ck eyes, his handsome face resolute.


    Qiao Xiaomai was left speechless¡­


    She could not only carry it, but she also had room to spare!


    ¡°Then I have to trouble Brother Tong,¡± she said with a light smile. As she spoke, two adorable dimples appeared at the corners of her mouth.


    Forget it, she did have something to ask him, so they might as well go together.


    Tong Sang nodded at her and, after bidding Shopkeeper He a farewell, he left.


    Once he was gone, Qiao Xiaomai started teaching Shopkeeper He the process. ¡°Bring somerge sweet potatoes and a grindstone,¡± she instructed.


    Shopkeeper He ordered his men to fetch these items and Xiaomai began demonstrating the procedures. The process of making starch was easy, as was making jelly.


    The jelly noodles were a bit moreplicated. She used to make them at home with a noodle machine. But since there wasn¡¯t one here, she used a rolling pin to tten the heated, paste-like brown starch into a sheet and then cut it into fine strips with a knife.


    ¡°You can use adle for this. Punch many small holes at the bottom of thedle and then pour the paste into it. The paste will flow out from the bottom of thedle, like thin threads one after the other. The taste of the noodles made in this way is much better,¡± Qiao Xiaomai exined.


    She had learned this technique from the inte. Rural handmade sweet potato vermicelli noodles were made in this way.


    ¡°I¡¯ll have someone punch holes in adle right away,¡± Shopkeeper He said.


    Since Qiao Xiaomai had given suggestions, of course, she had to demonstrate it once. After all, the fifty taels of silver she had got should not be wasted.


    By the time Qiao Xiaomai finished everything and left the Extreme vor House, it was already mid-afternoon.


    The starch had not yet fully precipitated. Shopkeeper He therefore withheld five taels of silver, asking her toe again the next day to confirm that the starch was perfect. Only then would he give her the remaining five taels of silver.


    Carrying over thirty catties of silver and copper currency, Qiao Xiaomai rushed to the pastry shop. Since she was going home by Tong Sang¡¯s ox-cart, she felt obligated to give him something in return.


    She bought three catties of green bean cake and three catties of cloud cake. Cloud cake is made of glutinous rice. Since local production of glutinous rice was scarce, the price was nearly the same as pork. These cakes would be absolutely appropriate as a thank-you gift.


    While asking directions along the way, she hurried over to Tong¡¯s Vinegar Shop. Passing by a grain store, she bought five catties of soybeans. Now, her basket was forty catties heavy. She stopped buying more things and went straight to Tong¡¯s Vinegar Shop.

 Chapter 17 - 17: The Overwhelming Power of Filial Piety

    17 Chapter 17: The Overwhelming Power of Filial Piety


    Trantor: 549690339


    The vinegar shop was run by the Tong Family, usually managed by Tong Sang¡¯s elder brother, Tong Dng, and his family. It was not located on any of the main streets but in a small alleyway.


    From afar, Qiao Xiaomai saw Tong Sang standing at the entrance of the alley. Although he was wearing grey, coarse hemp clothing, his tall stature and handsome face stood out in the crowd. As she was about to approach him, he took the initiative toe over to her.


    When he reached her, his face was calm, and he asked, ¡°Did Shopkeeper He give you any trouble?¡±


    ¡°No.¡± Qiao Xiaomai quickly shook her head, adding a faint smile with dimples.


    ¡°Then I will go to the backyard to get the ox cart, wait for me here.¡± Tong Sang turned and entered the alley after speaking.


    Qiao Xiaomai hummed in acknowledgment, standing in ce without moving.


    Tong Sang had actually stood here waiting for her, which seemed excessively considerate¡­


    She squinted slightly thinking about the original host¡¯s bitter hardships for over a decade.


    Something unusual must be wrong.


    Before long, Tong Sang came back leading the ox cart. He gestured for Qiao Xiaomai to get on.


    The ox cart was quite clean. Qiao Xiaomai lifted her coarse robe and stepped onto it. Tong Sang also got on, and the two started to head out of town.


    It was gettingte, and the once busy road was practically devoid of people. There were wheat fields on both sides of the road, and mountains could be seen in the distance. Qiao Xiaomai looked at the sky, then she nced at Tong Sang¡¯s broad back in front of her, and brought out two pounds each of green bean cakes and cloud cakes from her basket.


    ¡°Brother Tong San, thank you for today. Please take these cakes, don¡¯t reject them.¡±


    If she were on her own, it would bepletely dark by the time she got home, deserted mountains and wild valleys without light or people. She would be rather unnerved.


    Tong Sang, hearing her voice, turned around in surprise. He looked at the items in her hands, then turned back, ¡°The snails you gave were pretty good.¡±


    ¡°Back then, it was to thank you for saving Dami. This time, it¡¯s to thank you for your help today. Also¡­I hope you can keep today¡¯s matter a secret.¡±


    Making so much silver all at once would certainly stir up a sensation in Anping Vige, and by then, Sun Family would definitely make a fuss.


    When Tong Sang heard Qiao Xiaomai say this, he turned his head back again, taking the cakes from her and putting them in his own basket, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I won¡¯t tell.¡±


    ¡°Thanks, Brother Tong San.¡± Qiao Xiaomai thanked him crisply, ¡°I¡¯ll make some more cold jelly noodles tomorrow and bring some over to you.¡±


    ¡°No need.¡± Unexpectedly, Tong Sang refused, adding, ¡°Jiwei House will start selling it, so if you don¡¯t want others to know you came up with this method, then only your family should make it and not give it to others.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai, ¡°¡­¡±


    She almost forgot about this!


    Originally, she was thinking of giving some to Aunt Gun who lived next door, but now it seemed she had to give up on that idea.


    However¡­


    Thinking of the tofu toe, her eyebrows furrowed, ¡°Brother Tong San, the other day I saw you mention the ¡®Daqi Law¡¯. How does the ¡®Daqi Law¡¯ dictate filial piety?¡±


    That day, Tong Sang had used the ¡®Daqi Law¡¯ to get rid of Sun Family and Zhu Cuiying. The vige of Anping was a mix of different surnames with no ancestral hall. Therefore, in this time and space that ced heavy emphasis on filial piety, the only thing that could stand against filial piety was the ¡®Daqi Law¡¯, promulgated by the Emperor.


    Therefore, it was necessary for her to thoroughly understand the ¡®Daqi Law¡¯.


    Listening to her words, Tong Sang couldn¡¯t help but turn his head to nce at her.


    Seeing her brows slightly furrowed and the gloom in her peach blossom eyes, he could not help but respond, ¡°It depends on the severity of the situation. Minor cases have their boards beaten, serious cases are imprisoned or exiled, and the most severe cases are beheaded.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai, ¡°¡­¡±


    A twitch appears at the corner of her mouth as she asked, ¡°Are there any regtions that protect children?¡±


    ¡°As long as the parents don¡¯t kill their children, the government generally won¡¯t intervene.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai, ¡°¡­¡±


    So, Sun Family¡¯s oppressive actions towards Qiao Changsun and Zhuang L¨¹he were actually legal?


    Damn it! This wicked feudal society!

 Chapter 18 - 18 All About Acting

    Chapter 18: All About Acting


    Trantor: 549690339


    Qiao Xiaomai cursed silently in her heart, then asked again, ¡°How exactly is unfilial behavior defined?¡±


    Sensing the deep resentment in Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s words, Tong Sang waved his whip and exined, ¡°It prohibits cursing or reporting grandparents and parents.


    ¡°No private wealth is to be held while parents are alive. But since your Qiao family has split, this rule can be ignored.¡±


    ¡°Those who do not dutifully support their grandparents and parents, hide the period of grandparents and parents¡¯ death, or get married, take leave or drink alcohol during mourning, or beat grandparents and parents to death.¡±


    ¡°These are the specific rules, but the only one that might threaten you is neglecting to support. The others, you need not worry about.¡±


    How does one define not dutifully supporting? There is no specific rule. If the Sun family arbitrarily imed that Qiao Changshun was neglectful and unfilial, then Qiao Changshun would be in big trouble.


    Qiao Xiaomai fell silent¡­


    Damn it!


    ¡°However, ordinary people wouldn¡¯t want to go to the County Government Office without reason. Sun family probably won¡¯t think of using you over this.¡± added Tong Sang.


    ¡°Moreover, Sun family hasn¡¯t read ¡°Daqi Law¡± and probably doesn¡¯t know about this. Daqi has been founded for fifty years and there hasn¡¯t been such a case. So, you can rx.¡±


    ¡°Besides, since your family has split, your property is your own. Even your elders can¡¯t seize it.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai forced a smile and said, ¡°Thank you, Brother Tong San.¡±


    Tomorrow, she would have to go to the town Bookstore to buy a copy of ¡°Daqi Law¡± and study it carefully.


    She was going to earn a lot of money in the future, enough to make the Sun family go mad.


    She had toe up with a good defensive strategy.


    Tong Sang said no more. It was not appropriate for him to interfere further in someone else¡¯s family matters.


    But¡­


    The changes in Qiao Xiaomai left him astonished. After holding back for a while, as they were almost at the vige, he finally couldn¡¯t help but ask, ¡°You came up with this n recently, didn¡¯t you?¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai understood what he meant, and immediately switched to a choked voice, ¡°Yes, I thought of it in the past few days. My father broke his leg and everyone has been upset. 1 originally wanted to give my mother a surprise, so 1 kept it a secret, but then¡­¡±


    Then Zhuang Luhe ran away.


    She reddened her eyes at the right time, ¡°It¡¯s all my fault¡­¡±


    Tong Sang fellpletely silent.


    Telling Qiao Xiaomai to look for Zhuang Luhe wouldn¡¯t be appropriate. What if the Qiao family no longer liked Zhuang Luhe?


    So, he remained silent.


    With Tong Sang keeping quiet, Qiao Xiaomai also kept her head down and said nothing.


    The atmosphere became heavy.


    By the time they reached the vige entrance, it was almost dark, and from afar, Qiao Xiaomai saw two figures, one tall and one short, waiting at the entrance. They were too far away to see their expressions, but she could imagine their worry and anticipation.


    Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s long eyshes quivered and an unusual feeling swept through her.


    Since her mother had passed away when she was ten, no one had waited for her like this.


    Lifting her uncontroble arm, she waved and shouted loudly, ¡°Dad! Dami!¡±


    Hearing her voice, Qiao Changshun hurried over, pulling Qiao Dami with him, limping as they went.


    Seeing what was happening, Tong Sang whipped his beast faster.


    Upon reaching them and realizing that he had brought Qiao Xiaomai back, both Qiao Changshun and Qiao Dami were astonished. However, this was not the time for questions. Qiao Dami softly called out ¡®Brother Tong¡¯, while Qiao Changshun thanked Tong Sang..

 Chapter 19 - 19: Who Will Do This Job?

    Chapter 19: Who Will Do This Job?


    Trantor: 549690339


    Qiao Xiaomai got down from the ox cart and took off her carry basket, which weighed dozens of pounds. Struggling, she spoke to Tong Sang, ¡°Brother Tong San, thank you for today. You may head back now. The three of us will take our time walking home.¡±


    It¡¯s best to avoid any affiliation with Tong Sang in front of the vigers.


    Tong Sang gave a nod, drove off his ox cart and departed. Qiao Xiaomai hoisted the basket on her back and said, ¡°It¡¯s sold, we¡¯ll discuss when we get home.¡±


    These words were enough to bring joy to both Qiao Changshun and Qiao Dami. They couldn¡¯t delve into details in public and only waited until they arrived home. Before Xiaomai could even lower her basket, Dami could barely contain himself and asked, ¡°Sister, did we really sell it?!¡±


    ¡°Xiaomai, you must be famished; I¡¯ve made some food. Let¡¯s eat first.¡± Qiao Changshun went into the kitchen to light the oilmp.


    ¡°Right. Indeed, Sister. You should eat first. Father has made porridge and vegetable dough balls,¡± Qiao Dami also said.


    ¡°Here, have some cakes.¡± Qiao Xiaomai ruffled his little head and opened the basket. She took out a green bean cake wrapped in parchment paper.


    Qiao Changshun¡¯s vegetable dough balls were made of rough flour mixed with wild vegetables, then steamed on top of a sieve. They had a bitter taste and were hard to swallow. But he had made them for his children to nourish them.


    The cakes were a much better option.


    Qiao Dami let out an excited sound at the sight of the green bean cakes under the faint kitchen light. He pinched a piece off and offered it to Qiao Xiaomai. ¡°Here, sister.¡±


    ¡°Give it to father.¡± Qiao Xiaomai nodded her head towards the kitchen.


    Qiao Dami nodded and ran off into the kitchen with the cake.


    Qiao Xiaomai followed suit with her piece of green bean cake.


    Qiao Changshun was just about todle some sweet potato millet porridge into a bowl when he saw the cakes. Out of habit he said, ¡°Why did you buy cakes? You should eat them.¡±


    He had always been thrifty, but if something had been bought, he wouldn¡¯t make a fuss.


    Although he wouldn¡¯t eat, he left everything for the two children.


    Qiao Xiaomai knew of his nature and said, ¡°Father, I sold the medicinal recipe for fifty taels. You won¡¯t have to save so much as before. In the future, we will be able to afford white flour and rice.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai.


    Qiao Dami.


    The names symbolized the desire for a better life that Qiao Changshun and Zhuang Luhe held.


    With the presence of Qiao Xiaomai, who had traveled through time, this aspiration had now turned into a reality in minutes.


    However, upon hearing the words ¡°fifty taels,¡± Qiao Changshun froze with his scoopingdle.


    It was as if Qiao Xiaomai hadn¡¯t noticed his surprise and continued, ¡°We can buy back the farnd that was sold and use the remaining money as capital to start a small business.¡±


    Farnd.


    The word seemed to bring Qiao Changshun back to his senses. He quicklydled the porridge into the bowls on the small wooden table, along with a few steamed vegetable dough balls, before sitting down. ¡°Are we buying back all the farnd we sold?¡±


    Under the ¡°Daqi Law¡±, women were not entitled to farnd while each grown man was entitled to one hundred acres ofnd. However, Bailu Town had arge poption and limited farnd, thus each person was actually allocated only thirty acres.


    Previously, to treat Qiao Changshun¡¯s leg injury, all theirnd had been sold.


    ¡°Buy so much? Who¡¯s going to farm it?¡± Qiao Xiaomai put the green bean cake she was eating on the table and sat down with Qiao Dami.


    One acre is approximately 600 square meters. If all the fields were bought back, it would be a lot of hard work.


    Sowing, fertilizing, weeding, watering, and harvesting. Every single task required hard work. Unlike in the future, there were no convenient farming tools; everything had to be done manually.


    Who could handle suchborious tasks single-handedly, with thisrge a piece ofnd? Especially since Qiao Changshun was disabled, she herself had no experience in farming, and Qiao Dami was just seven years old.


    Who would do the work?

 Chapter 20 - 20: Living on Rice and White Flour

    Chapter 20: Living on Rice and White Flour


    Trantor: 549690339


    ¡°I¡¯ll handle the farming. It might be a slow process, but we always manage to grow enough for the tax in grain.¡± Qiao Changshun answered without hesitation.


    Nowadays, taxation is mainly on food grain and cloth.


    If you choose to pay with silver instead of food grain and cloth, you¡¯re subjected to themercial tax rate. Given that his Majesty of today doesn¡¯t favor businessmen over farmers, if you adopt the merchant¡¯s standard, you¡¯d end up paying a lot more in silver.


    For instance, if tax is paid in food grain, two bushels will suffice.


    However, if it¡¯s paid in silver, if two bushels of grain is worth one tael silver, the tax would then be two taels silver, twice the cost.


    ¡°You¡¯ll also need to help me with the business. There isn¡¯t time for you to farm.


    1 think buying back five acres is enough.¡±


    Knowing that to farmers thend is everything, Qiao Xiaomai carefully exined to Qiao Changshun, ¡°Dad, the task of grinding the beans is tooborious. We need to rotate it. Plus, delivery of the tofu to the town is also my responsibility. I won¡¯t be able to do all of it alone.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll help sister!¡± Before Qiao Xiaomai could finish, Qiao Dami quickly jumped in, her voice loud and clear.


    She had a piece of green bean cake in her mouth, causing her chubby cheeks to puff out like a squirrel¡¯s.


    Qiao Xiaomai smiled, cing a bowl of porridge in front of her, ¡°Eat slowly, don¡¯t choke.¡±


    She ruffled Qiao Dami¡¯s hair before looking back at Qiao Changshun, ¡°Dad, farming is too tiring and doesn¡¯t yield enough. Let¡¯s do business instead. Look at the Tong family and Jiang family in the vige who are running businesses; they¡¯re doing quite well.¡±


    ¡°All?¡± Qiao Changshun looked at Qiao Xiaomai in surprise, his mind unable to keep up, ¡°Business? Are you serious?¡±


    Feeling a bit exasperated, Qiao Xiaomai retorted, ¡°Or you n to farm for the rest of your life?¡±


    ¡°This¡­ business¡­ this¡­¡± Qiao Changshun opened his mouth but couldn¡¯t get the words out.


    He had spent his entire life toiling in the fields, ustomed to the daily grind of farming. Asking him to change, to embark on apletely new path, he instinctively resisted.


    The word ¡°business¡± was fearful and alien to him.


    Qiao Xiaomai took a deep breath, mustering patience as she asked, ¡°Dad, don¡¯t you want us to eat white flour and drink white porridge every day?¡±


    ¡°I do.¡± Qiao Changshun¡¯s reply was instinctive.


    ¡°Can farming alone allow us to eat white flour and drink white porridge every day?¡± asked Qiao Xiaomai again.


    After a moment of silence, Qiao Changshun responded, ¡°No.¡±


    ¡°Then let¡¯s go into business,¡± Qiao Xiaomai made the decision, ¡°We¡¯ll grind the beans and see if we can make something like starch out of it. If we can, then we¡¯ll sell it to Ji Wei Ju in the town. I think the shopkeeper there seems pretty decent.¡±


    She originally had ns to set up a small stall in town but now that she had He Zhanggui as a potential customer, she was better off selling to him.


    Running a stall seemed too much trouble. Once they earned enough silver, they could buy a shop front in the town and talk about the restter.


    Making money should be done one step at a time.


    With that in mind, Qiao Xiaomai happily dragged the basket over, taking out the silver and copper coins and cing them on the small table.


    The silver shone warmly in the dim light, attracting Qiao Dami¡¯s eager gaze, ¡°Wow, that¡¯s a lot!¡±


    ¡°It is, but remember this, you absolutely mustn¡¯t tell anyone that we have silver. Otherwise, Those people from the old courtyard wille and rob us.¡± Qiao Xiaomai cautioned her seriously.


    Qiao Dami immediately nodded her head, ¡°I won¡¯t say.¡±


    Her encounter where the Sun family forcefully took her things had left too deep of an impression on her. She would never reveal this secret, even if she were beaten to death!


    However, recalling what Qiao Xiaomai had said yesterday, she couldn¡¯t help but ask, ¡°Sister, since we now have silver, can we bring mother back home? There¡¯s no need for her to work and earn silver anymore..¡±


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    Chapter 21: She Takes the Silver


    Trantor: 549690339


    Upon hearing this, Qiao Changshun, who was already quite confused, felt his mind go whirling into a nk nothingness.


    Qiao Dami¡¯s unintentional remark was like a sharp dagger, ruthlessly plunging into his chest.


    They had been married for over ten years, but he would never again see that familiar figure at home¡­


    Wiping his eyes, he slowly got up and limped towards the kitchen, ¡°You two siblings go ahead and eat, 1 need to step out for a moment.¡±


    Confused, Qiao Dami, his hand on the table while holding a vegetable bun that he was about to stuff into his mouth asked, ¡°Sister, what¡¯s wrong with Dad?¡±


    ¡°Nothing, let¡¯s eat our dinner.¡± Qiao Xiaomai took the vegetable bun from his hand, instead stuffing him a piece of green bean cake, ¡°Eat this, leave the vegetable bun for Dad.¡±


    Qiao Dami¡¯s sensibilities made her heartache. Such a small child, yet able to restrain himself to only eating one piece; what hardships had he experienced?


    ¡°Aren¡¯t we saving this forter?¡± Qiao Dami eyed the green bean cake but didn¡¯t take it.


    ¡°No need to save it, we eat this now and buy more tomorrow.¡± Qiao Xiaomai pushed the oiled paper package containing the green bean cake towards him. ¡°Enjoy it. We have money now.¡±


    Qiao Dami, now reassured, took the green bean cake and began to eat happily. While eating, he nced at Qiao Xiaomai and exuberantly dered, ¡°It¡¯s delicious!¡±


    ¡°Eat as much as you like.¡± Qiao Xiaomai pinched his thin cheek, her smile dampened by the mncholy in her eyes.


    Qiao Dami was easy to fool; he could be sidetracked by any simple excuse.

 Chapter 21 - 21 She Takes the Silver

    Chapter 21: She Takes the Silver


    Trantor: 549690339


    Upon hearing this, Qiao Changshun, who was already quite confused, felt his mind go whirling into a nk nothingness.


    Qiao Dami¡¯s unintentional remark was like a sharp dagger, ruthlessly plunging into his chest.


    They had been married for over ten years, but he would never again see that familiar figure at home¡­


    Wiping his eyes, he slowly got up and limped towards the kitchen, ¡°You two siblings go ahead and eat, 1 need to step out for a moment.¡±


    Confused, Qiao Dami, his hand on the table while holding a vegetable bun that he was about to stuff into his mouth asked, ¡°Sister, what¡¯s wrong with Dad?¡±


    ¡°Nothing, let¡¯s eat our dinner.¡± Qiao Xiaomai took the vegetable bun from his hand, instead stuffing him a piece of green bean cake, ¡°Eat this, leave the vegetable bun for Dad.¡±


    Qiao Dami¡¯s sensibilities made her heartache. Such a small child, yet able to restrain himself to only eating one piece; what hardships had he experienced? ¡°Aren¡¯t we saving this forter?¡± Qiao Dami eyed the green bean cake but didn¡¯t take it.


    ¡°No need to save it, we eat this now and buy more tomorrow.¡± Qiao Xiaomai pushed the oiled paper package containing the green bean cake towards him. ¡°Enjoy it. We have money now.¡±


    Qiao Dami, now reassured, took the green bean cake and began to eat happily. While eating, he nced at Qiao Xiaomai and exuberantly dered, ¡°It¡¯s delicious!¡±


    ¡°Eat as much as you like.¡± Qiao Xiaomai pinched his thin cheek, her smile dampened by the mncholy in her eyes.


    Qiao Dami was easy to fool; he could be sidetracked by any simple excuse.


    However, it seemed that Qiao Changshun was somewhat attached to Zhuang Luhe.


    In this era, people didn¡¯t fuss overly much about the interactions between men and women. It was eptable for unmarried couples to meet and exchange gifts, and for widows to remarry. However, society still roundly scorned women who would elope.


    But it seemed that Qiao Changshun didn¡¯t care about this¡­


    Qiao Xiaomai sighed internally, picked up a piece of the green bean cake, and began to eat as well.


    She had eaten a bowl of Yangchun Noodles offered by Shopkeeper He at noon. By now, she was quite hungry again.


    Never mind, let¡¯s eat first.


    The taste of the green bean cake was not as good as the ones in the future. After eating one piece and drinking half a bowl of porridge, she went to call Qiao Changshun for dinner.


    Qiao Changshun was sitting in a trance on a stone at the entrance of their house.


    After a moment¡¯s hesitation, Qiao Xiaomai ventured, ¡°Dad, should we go look for her?¡±


    ¡°Where would we look?¡± Qiao Changshun responded with a hoarse voice that caught in his throat.


    Qiao Xiaomai fell silent.


    Bailu Town was under the jurisdiction of Huai¡¯an County. The county had arger poption than Bailu Town did, and due to the presence of Bailu Academy, the county was well-connected with the surrounding regions. Who knew where Zhuang Luhe had gone?


    > (<sup>y</sup> v <) <sub>r</sub>


    ¡°Never mind, we¡¯ll talk about thister.¡± Qiao Changshun stood up¡ªhis back a little more hunched, the wrinkles on his face deepened, reminding her of a withered tree bark. For a man not yet forty, he seemed to have aged to his sixties.


    Qiao Xiaomai pursed her lips, and followed him into the house.


    After a simple dinner, Qiao Dami, burdened by tiredness, washed up and climbed into bed to sleep.


    Qiao Xiaomai put a basket filled with silver in front of Qiao Changshun, telling him very clearly, ¡°Dad, I¡¯ll keep the silver. If you need anything, ask me.¡± ¡°You¡¯ll keep it?¡± A surprised expression appeared on Qiao Changshun¡¯s usually grim face.


    Qiao Xiaomai nodded. ¡°1¡¯11 keep it. In a few days, it will all be handed over to Grandma.¡±


    Qiao Changshun was foolishly filial. The Sun Family often demanded money and grain from him in various names, resorting to lying on the ground crying, rolling around, and throwing tantrums if he refused. As a result, Qiao Changshun always ended up agreeing to their demands.


    This situation needed to change going forward, or else all the silver she earned would end up in the pockets of the Sun Family.


    The change had to start with Qiao Changshun being broke.


    Without grain or money, she wanted to see how he wouldply with the Sun Family¡¯s demands in the future..

 Chapter 22 - 22 It’s Great to Be Rich!

    Chapter 22: It¡¯s Great to Be Rich!


    Trantor: 549690339


    Hearing Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s words, Qiao Changshun rubbed his rough hands, bowing his head in shame.


    ¡°You keep the money you earned.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai nodded, logically picking up her basket and heading towards her room. Along the way, she said, ¡°Dad, Dami and I are going to go to town tomorrow to buy some things.¡±


    ¡°Alright,¡± Qiao Changshun nodded, having no objections.


    He knew to keep his head down and work. Before, housekeeping was managed by Zhuang Liihe, and now it was handed over to Qiao Xiaomai. He had no objections.


    Qiao Xiaomai entered her room without lighting themp. Using the moonlight shining through the window, she put the silver and copper coins from her basket into her pocket, leaving only a hundred copper coins out.


    When they had lived in the thatched hut, Sun Family hade to their home several times to search for money. She had to keep it safe.


    She did not enjoy the taste of the Green Bean Cake, so she had not eaten her fill. She gnawed on a piece of bread and after finishing, she climbed into bed and pulled out her shlight and notebook to start nning her future.


    After writing and drawing into thete night, she put her shlight and notebook back in her pocket and was preparing to sleep when she faintly heard sobbing.


    It was Qiao Changshun.


    The man who had spent half his life in filial piety was finally unable to bear the dual pressure of his broken leg and his wife¡¯s departure.


    Qiao Xiaomai closed her eyes and fell asleep.


    She wouldn¡¯t console him. It would be better for him to feel the pain, maybe then he would change.


    The following morning she woke early, to have Sweet Potato Porridge with pancakes. After breakfast, she soaked the five pounds of yellow beans she had bought the day before, then she put her basket on her back, took Qiao Dami, and started walking towards the town.


    She still received many strange looks along the way, but she ignored them all.


    Qiao Dami was young and so they made frequent stops. By the time they reached the town, the sun was high in the sky.


    There were quite a few food stalls on the street. The steamed buns were piping hot, the Egg Pancakes were fragrantly delicious, and the oil-drenched fried cakes had a variety of scents that infiltrated her nostrils.


    Qiao Xiaomai led Qiao Dami to a bun stall, spending two copper coins to buy four meat-filled Steamed Buns. The meat was pork, but most of the filling was made up ofrge scallions. The shell was made of white flour and didn¡¯t contain any wheat skin, just like buns in the future world.


    Qiao Xiaomai and Qiao Dami nibbled on their buns as they leisurely headed towards the Exotic vors Inn.


    Qiao Dami quickly finished his two buns, his small mouth smeared with quite a bit of oil. He patted his belly contentedly, ¡°I¡¯m so full.¡±


    He wasn¡¯t full from drinking water.


    He wasn¡¯t full from the sharp and dirty taste of wild vegetables and bran, either.


    For breakfast, he had eaten delicate Green Bean Cake with Sweet Potato Porridge, and now he enjoyed two oily meat buns. Licking his lips, he looked up at Qiao Xiaomai with a bright smile, ¡°Sister, it¡¯s great to have money!¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai looked at his bright eyes and couldn¡¯t help butugh as she touched his little belly, ¡°Yes, that¡¯s why we¡¯re working hard to make money. And we can¡¯t tell Grandma that we have money.¡±


    At the mention of the Sun Family, the smile on Qiao Dami¡¯s face disappeared. He nodded his small head firmly, his little face full of determination, ¡°Alright!¡±


    When they arrived at the Exotic vors Inn, Shopkeeper He greeted them with a bright smile. The starch had already been dried outside, and whether it was jelly or noodles, the taste was excellent.


    He had already sent people to collect sweet potatoes the day before, the entire courtyard was filled with a two months¡¯ worth, all for the Exotic vors Inn.


    ¡°Here, five taels of silver, take it.¡± There was no problem with the starch, so paying was a breeze.


    Qiao Xiaomai took the money, and thinking about the pork and scallion filled buns she had just eaten, said, ¡°Shopkeeper, the noodles with pork can be used to make steamed buns, it¡¯s really delicious.¡±


    The taste of the scallions was too domineering and lingered in the mouth. The noodle and pork buns were better..

 Chapter 23 - 23 Buy Buy Buy

    Chapter 23: Buy Buy Buy


    Trantor: 549690339


    Upon hearing these words, Shopkeeper He beamed even brighter. ¡°I¡¯ll have the kitchen try it out today.¡±


    ¡°Sir, I wille to see you again when I have more new dishes,¡± Qiao Xiaomai said further.


    ¡°No problem, you¡¯re wee anytime,¡± Shopkeeper He cheerfully agreed. ¡°Practice makes perfect. Next time, I¡¯ll surely give the youngdy a better deal.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai responded with a bright smile. She would bring tofu over tomorrow!


    Seeing that Qiao Xiaomai had offered another recipe, Shopkeeper He gave her a pound of maltose as a thank-you gift.


    Maltose is not as sweet as sugar, but due to thegging sugar production technology of this era, sugar was expensive and maltose was whatmoners ate.


    However, for the Qiao Family, even maltose was a rare treat.


    Other than the asional wild fruit they could pick in the mountains, the Qiao Family rarely tasted sweetness throughout the year.


    Qiao Xiaomai put the maltose into her basket and led Qiao Dami out the back door of the restaurant. Once the door closed behind them, she immediately unwrapped the maltose, tore off a piece, and handed it to Qiao Dami. ¡°Taste it now!¡±


    Qiao Dami reached out his small hand to take it, then licked it with his little tongue, his face showing a look of amazement. ¡°Wow, it¡¯s so sweet!¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai, watching his joyful face, couldn¡¯t help butugh.


    Although maltose isn¡¯t much sweeterpared to sugar, seeing Qiao Dami¡¯s delighted expression, she ruffled his little head, ¡°Come on, let¡¯s go shopping.¡±


    The main purpose of her visit to Bailu Town today was to shop. The Qiao Family was so poor, there were many things they needed.


    First, she went to the grain shop and bought five pounds of flour and one pound of rice.


    After buying the grains, she went to a bookstore and bought a copy of the ¡°Daqi Laws¡±. Seeing that they sold rice paper, she hurriedly bought some.


    To be honest, one of the most awkward issues for Qiao Xiaomai after going back in time was what to use to clean herself after using the bathroom.


    The technology of paper-making in this era was underdeveloped, and paper was valuable, so mostmoners used bamboo strips to clean themselves after defecating. This was historically known as ¡®toilet tally¡¯.


    The toilet at the Qiao house had four of these bamboo strips. You would scrape with a bamboo strip after defecating, then wash it clean with water for next time¡¯s use.


    At the beginning of her transition, Qiao Xiaomai was shocked by this situation.


    In order to use the toilet paper she stored in her space, she had been going to the mountain to defecate for the past few days.


    The Qiao family¡¯s toilet habit had to be changed!


    After leaving the bookstore, she went to buy some seasonings.


    The avable seasonings here were quitepletepared to the future, including oil, salt, soy sauce, vinegar, peppercorns, and star anise, etc. Qiao Xiaomai bought some coarse salt and white vinegar, then went to a pastry shop.


    Having finished the green bean cake, she bought a red bean cake this time.


    She gave a piece to Qiao Dami, and finally visited the pork stall.


    By this time, the best cuts had been sold out, so she carefully selected a pound of lean meat and a pair of pig¡¯s feet.


    Her current body was good looking, but too nutritionally deficient. At fifteen, she hadn¡¯t even started her menstruation yet, so she needed to nourish her body.


    With this thought, she bought an old hen and after binding it properly and stuffing it in her carrying basket, she finally went home, leading Qiao Dami by the hand.


    Old man Han¡¯s ox cart was outside the town, but all of the vige people were waiting there. Considering the basketful of goods she was carrying, she decided not to go there.


    It took half an hour to reach Anping Vige. It was noon, and the sun was scorching hot. Qiao Xiaomai was a bit thirsty, and Qiao Dami mentioned he was thirsty as well, making the siblings unconsciously quicken their pace.


    However, when they turned into the street where their home was located, they saw two people sitting at the entrance from the distance.


    One was Qiao Changshun.


    The other was Zhu Cuiying..

 Chapter 24 - 24: Do you want to steal money?

    Chapter 24: Do you want to steal money?


    Trantor: 549690339


    Zhu Cuiying had been eyeing the road closely and instantly lit up at the sight of Qiao Xiaomai. She straightway rose from her bench.


    Seeing Qiao Xiaomai leading Qiao Dami towards herself, Zhu Cuiying quickened her pace to wee them. She revealed a smile, her face filled with pockmarks. ¡°Xiaomai, are you on your way to town?¡± she asked.


    Qiao Xiaomai responded with an extremely indifferent grunt.


    Zhu Cuiying kept silent, just smiling at Qiao Xiaomai.


    Her face was pockmarked, her small eyes gleaming with hidden schemes. She grimaced, revealing yellow-stained teeth. Her coarse and dullplexion revealed a clear loathing for Qiao Xiaomai ¨C so intense it was as if she¡¯d willingly sell her to a brothel. Yet now, she strained a pleasant smile.


    She gave Qiao Xiaomai goosebumps all over.


    Only when she saw Xiaomai and Dami approaching the entrance of their house did Zhu Cuiying speak again. ¡°Oh, what a full basket you have there. What did you buy?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s none of your business,¡± Qiao Xiaomai replied even more coldly.


    Zhu Cuiying kept smiling, her demeanor even friendlier than before, which only meant her gummy, yellowish teeth were even more exposed now. ¡°Why should it not concern me? You haven¡¯t paid this month¡¯s filial piety money yet.¡± Filial piety money?


    Qiao Xiaomai paused, turning to Qiao Changshun. ¡°Dad, was it supposed to be paid already?¡±


    Qiao Changshun grunted, ¡°Today is the fifth, it is time to pay.¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡±


    ¡°Alright,¡± Qiao Xiaomai acknowledged.


    The filial piety money was a rule set by the Sun Family when the Qiao Family divided ten years ago ¨C fifty wen each month.


    Apart from the filial piety money, another fifty wen was set as subsidy money.


    The youngest son of the Sun Family, Qiao Changshun¡¯s younger brother Sun Junyan, was studying at Bailu Academy in town. As the Qiao Family was poor, Sun Junyan¡¯s tuition was covered by Qiao Changshun and his other brothers, with the expectation that Sun Junyan would pay them back and look after his brothers once he seeded in the Imperial Examination.


    The filial piety money plus the subsidy added up to a total of one hundred wen.


    ¡°Wait a bit, I¡¯ll get it for you at home.¡± Qiao Xiaomai, leading Qiao Dami, moved towards their house.


    Zhu Cuiying stretched out her arm to block her, ¡°Didn¡¯t your mother take all the money from your home?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s none of your business,¡± Qiao Xiaomai red at her coldly.


    ¡°As your aunt, it¡¯s only right that I care for you.¡±


    All she wanted to know was the amount of money left in Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s house so she could continue to exploit them.


    For more than a decade, she and the Sun Family had done exactly that allowing Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s family just enough to live and wresting away every other resource.


    ¡°Heh¡ª¡± Qiao Xiaomai snorted, leading Qiao Dami a step to the left, trying to bypass Zhu Cuiying.


    The moment they began to eclipse each other, Zhu Cuiying darted her hand to lift the cloth covering Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s basket.


    Anticipating this move, Qiao Xiaomai quickly dodged to the side, ¡°Auntie, are you trying to rob me?¡±


    ¡°What do you mean rob? 1 just wanted to have a look,¡± Zhu Cuiying justified herself, tilting her chin high and meeting Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s icy gaze.


    Zhu Cuiying was ustomed to Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s family being easily bullied, and although Qiao Xiaomai had behaved slightly differently these days, in her opinion, she hadn¡¯t crossed any lines.


    In the end, she¡¯s still that little girl. What is there to fear?


    ¡°Then 1 should also check your house, maybe even rummage your money box. How does that sound?¡± a cold smirk danced on Xiaomai¡¯s face.


    At Xiaomai¡¯s words, Zhu Cuiying¡¯s forced smile finally faltered, and she began to scold instead, ¡°You shameless girl, we were just talking about your basket and you bring up my home. I bet you¡¯ve been coveting my family¡¯s silver for a while!¡±


    ¡°What, are you going to steal because you can¡¯t pay the tax?¡±

 Chapter 25 - 25: You Are The Thief!

    Chapter 25: You Are The Thief!


    Trantor: 549690339


    Qiao Xiaomai scoffed lightly, staring at the ugly yellow face in front of her. She rolled her eyes and retorted, ¡°Not everyone is like you, only thinking about stealing and seducing and the like.¡±


    The word ¡®seducing¡¯ reminded Zhu Cuiying of her experience at the door of the Tong Family, causing her face to change and she rebuked, ¡°Rubbish! 1 think it was you who stole my family¡¯s silver!¡±


    Upon hearing this usation, Qiao Changshun who had been sitting by the door couldn¡¯t help but stand up, his face turning red with anger, ¡°Sister-inw, how can you say that?!¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m speaking the truth! Everyone in the vige saw the day that shameless person took everything from your home and fled. Now, this wretch returns from town with a basket filled with goods, where did she get the silver to buy all those things?¡±


    ¡°Just yesterday, I lost five taels of silver from my home, I suspect she is the thief!¡±


    Facing the honest Qiao Changshun, Zhu Cuiying raised her voice considerably, standing with one hand on her hip and the other pointing at Qiao Xiaomai, spitting as she spoke aggressively, like an abrasive woman.


    She has been keeping in mind how Qiao Xiaomai had imed she could make money that day.


    So she had been quietly observing Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s family thesest few days, noting Qiao Xiaomai regrly making trips to town, something that many in the vige also saw, especially today with her returningden with goods.


    She had been sitting here all morning just to discover how Qiao Xiaomai was making money.


    Of course, if she could swindle some silver out of this as well, it would be even better.


    With this thought, Zhu Cuiying¡¯s voice grew louder, ¡°I am going to search your home to find where my five taels of silver are hidden, move out of my way!¡±


    As she spoke, she tried to reach out and rummage through Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s basket.


    Qiao Xiaomai dodged quickly, deftly grabbing Zhu Cuiying¡¯srge hand, which was dry and coarse like tree bark. Using a bit of force, Zhu Cuiying instantly let out a scream like a ughtered pig, ¡°Let me go, you brat!¡±


    As she spoke, she tried to use her other hand to scratch Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s face.


    She had long been irritated by Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s attractive face and thought it would serve her right if she destroyed it!


    Qiao Xiaomai snorted coldly, her other hand swiftly reaching out to grab Zhu Cuiying¡¯s hand, then with a twist, she had both of Zhu Cuiying¡¯s hands bound behind her.


    Zhu Cuiying had never been subjected to such treatment in her entire life. The abuseing from her grew louder, ¡°Let go of me, you shameless woman!¡±


    ¡°Auntie, you¡¯re using me of stealing your family¡¯s silver without any proof, we should take this matter to the Vige Chief. We may be poor, but neither Dami nor 1 have ever harboured such crooked thoughts,¡± Qiao Xiaomai ignored Zhu Cuiying¡¯s curses, holding her hands tightly.


    Against Zhu Cuiying, who bullied the weak and feared the strong, she had to show some strength.


    Besides, now that she was working on earning silver, for the sake of peace, she had to take a tough stance.


    With that, she looked towards Qiao Changshun standing at the door, ¡°Dad, close the door, let¡¯s go to the Vige Chief¡¯s house.¡±


    Hearing this, Qiao Changshun actually closed the door and locked it.


    Seeing this, Zhu Cuiying struggled more violently, ¡°Let go of me, you wretch! You must have stolen my family¡¯s silver, your whole family are thieves, all dishonourable people!¡±


    ¡°How dare youy a hand on me, 1 will beat you to death, let go of me!¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai held on to Zhu Cuiying tightly, striding quickly towards the Vige Chief¡¯s house, ¡°Auntie, you can say that in front of the Vige Chief.¡±


    ¡°Let go of me, you wretch!¡± Unable to break free, Zhu Cuiying twisted her head, trying to spit at Qiao Xiaomai.


    Qiao Xiaomai frowned, quickly sidestepping, while lightly pushing with her arms, shoving Zhu Cuiying away.


    A glob of thick salivanded on the ground. Zhu Cuiying staggered a few steps backward, almost falling..

 Chapter 26 - 26 Help! Someone is going to be killed!

    Chapter 26: Help! Someone is going to be killed!


    Trantor: 549690339


    Zhu Cuiying didn¡¯t even wait until she was steady, she turned around and lunged at Qiao Xiaomai, her face a mask of ugliness.


    Even Zhuang Luhe had never dared to touch her, but now Qiao Xiaomai almost made her fall on the ground like a dog.


    This grievance, she must avenge.


    ¡°You brat! I¡¯ll kill you!¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai rolled her eyes and immediately ran towards the vige chief¡¯s house.


    Perfect, it saves her the trouble of dragging Zhu Cuiying there.


    As expected, Zhu Cuiying immediately started chasing her, cursing and swearing, ¡°You little wretch, stop right there!¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai had a basket on her back and kept running forward without a word.


    Upon seeing this, Qiao Dami wanted to follow, but seeing Qiao Changshun limping, she had to suppress her urge and slowly walked towards the vige chief¡¯s house beside him.


    ¡°Little wretch, Stop! I swear I¡¯ll kill you!¡± Unable to catch up, Zhu Cuiying began to pick up clods of soil from the roadside and throw them at Qiao Xiaomai.


    Qiao Xiaomai had no choice but to run and dodge at the same time.


    It was noon, and people in the vige were all eating at home. However, the vigers liked to squat at the door when they ate, and thus the two of them attracted many nces.


    Seeing this, Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s eyes glittered, and she shouted, ¡°Come and see! Aunt is using me of stealing her money. She¡¯s hitting me because I won¡¯t admit it. Everyone,e and judge!¡±


    Despite yelling like this, she didn¡¯t show any intention of stopping her run.


    Zhu Cuiying was furious and cursed even harsher, ¡°You wretch, just like your slutty mother, your mother seduces men, you steal money, there¡¯s not a good one in your family! 1 swear I¡¯ll kill you!¡±


    With this conversation taking ce, quite a few people followed, eager to see themotion.


    When Qiao Xiaomai ran to the Tong Family¡¯s gate, there were dozens of curious people following her.


    Seeing Zhu Cuiying was still ten meters or so away from her, Qiao Xiaomai hurriedly knocked on the Tongs¡¯ heavy iron gate, ¡°Vige Chief, help me! Someone wants to kill me!¡±


    She knocked hard, and the Tong Family¡¯s iron gate immediately echoed with a loud ng.


    Those of the Tong Family, who were eating in the hall, all looked towards the door.


    Hearing Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s voice, Tong Sang put down his chopsticks and steamed bun and stood up, ¡°I¡¯ll go and see.¡±


    Tong Sang¡¯s grandfather, Tong Tiehu, also stood up, ¡°Let me see as well.¡±


    As the grandfather and grandson walked towards the door, Zhu Cuiying had caught up. She held a dry tree branch she picked up somewhere and ran towards Qiao Xiaomai, cursing violently.


    Seeing this, Qiao Xiaomai had to run in circles while still shouting, ¡°Help, she wants to kill me!¡±


    When Tong Sang and Tong Tiehu came out, they saw this scene: Qiao Xiaomai dodging left and right, Zhu Cuiying looking furious, with many surrounding vigers watching.


    ¡°Vige Chief, help!¡± Seeing Tong Tiehu, Qiao Xiaomai quickly squeezed behind him.


    ¡°You brat,e out!¡± Zhu Cuiying, gasping for breath, pointed at Qiao Xiaomai with the tree branch in her hand.


    However, because Tong Tiehu was standing in front of Qiao Xiaomai, she was essentially pointing at Tong Tiehu.


    Immediately, Tong Tiehu¡¯s face went cold, ¡°Zhuang Changfu¡¯s family, are you trying to beat this old man as well?¡±


    At his words, Zhu Cuiying hurriedly threw the branch in her hand and dropped her fierce look, exining, ¡°Uncle Tong, I was just trying to discipline this brat. She not only stole my family¡¯s silver but also pushed me just now, almost breaking my bones.¡±


    ¡°I have to teach this ungrateful wretch a lesson today!¡±

 Chapter 27 - 27: Qiao Fox is the Village Belle

    Chapter 27: Qiao Fox is the Vige Belle


    Trantor: 549690339


    As Zhu Cuiying finished her sentences, Qiao Xiaomai, standing behind Tong Tiehu, quickly retorted, ¡°You say 1 stole money, then bring forth the evidence, or 1 will use you of false charges!¡±


    ¡°And about pushing you, there¡¯s not even a speck of dirt on you, I didn¡¯t shove you to the ground at all, everybody saw it, you don¡¯t have to be so ruthless in your usations!¡±


    This was also the main reason why Qiao Xiaomai insisted oning to the Vige Chief¡¯s house.


    To use Zhu Cuiying of nder, the best oue would be to force Zhu Cuiying into submission, she needed peace to make money.


    She did not know why Tong Sang had suddenly sided with her, but she had to seize this opportunity to discipline Zhu Cuiying more.


    Upon hearing Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s words, Tong Tiehu¡¯s gaze swept over Zhu Cuiying. Her deep blue linen clothes indeed showed no spots of dirt. He immediately sternly said, ¡°Changfu¡¯s family, you¡¯re her elder, and it¡¯s not right to make baseless usations against her. If you ruin her reputation, what good will you get?¡±


    ¡°Vige Chief, if my reputation is ruined, I won¡¯t be able to get married with Tong Sang. Then it will be her turn, her sister Qiao Ying. Remember, I¡¯m Qiao Xiaomai.¡± Qiao Xiaomai spoke up before Zhu Cuiying could.


    Qiao Xiaomai, another term could be the vige belle.


    The original belle was indeed Qiao Xiaomai, while Tong Sang could be considered the vige bachelor. Although the two had never crossed paths, as long as Tong Sang remained unmarried, she had a chance with him.


    Because of her appearance, the original belle was the public enemy of all unmarried women in Anping Vige.


    Zhu Cuiying and the Sun Family both had unmarried daughters, so of course, they saw Qiao Xiaomai as a threat.


    Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s words were shocking, but her face showed no signs of embarrassment, she wasposed.


    On the other hand, Tong Sang was somewhat surprised after hearing what she said, and gave her a puzzled look.


    Qiao Xiaomai, unaware of Tong Sang¡¯s gaze, continued from behind Tong Tiehu, ¡°ndering me for stealing silver is all for extorting every silver coin from my family. Then forcing my father to sell me, or sell the house to pay the tax.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t underestimate my family because we¡¯re poor, we have plenty that¡¯s worth her scheming over!¡±


    Zhu Cuiying¡¯s mind was thoroughly guessed by Qiao Xiaomai, leaving her fuming. She bent down to pick up a tree branch, intending to beat Qiao Xiaomai. ¡°Nonsense! You dare to make false usations, I¡¯ll tear your filthy mouth apart!¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai dodged quickly, shouting, ¡°You told grandmast time that 1 should be sold to the brothel, many people heard that, Tong Sang knows about it too!¡±


    ¡°You wanted Qiao Ying to marry Tong Sang, I overheard you and uncle talking! But you dare not offend my aunt and grandmother, so you didn¡¯t say it openly!¡±


    Zhu Cuiying has a fourteen-year-old daughter named Qiao Ying, who is ordinary-looking but has a melodious voice like her name suggests.


    For the sake of Qiao Ying¡¯s marriage, she had gone to great lengths. As Tong Sang was the most outstanding young man in the surrounding viges, naturally, he was on her list of potential suitors.


    However, she had a younger sister-inw named Qiao Meipan, who was seventeen this year, the younger daughter of Sunshi and Qiao Qinghe.


    At seventeen and unmarried, she was truly an old maid. Sunshi was extremely worried about Qiao Meipan¡¯s marriage.


    Qiao Meipan had her eyes on Tong Sang, Sunshi had someone propose this to the Tong family, but Tong Sang did not agree.


    But Qiao Meipan did not give up, so her marriage was postponed.


    With Qiao Meipan in the way, Zhu Cuiying naturally couldn¡¯t speak of Qiao Ying. She could only grumble to Qiao Changfu in private, but the original host had heard it.


    All this was now revealed by Qiao Xiaomai in front of everyone.


    Thinking of Qiao Meipan¡¯s persistence and Sunshi¡¯s ruthlessness, Zhu Cuiying¡¯s heart trembled, ring hatefully at Qiao Xiaomai, she snarled, ¡°You little wretch, just like your lewd andscivious mother, you¡­¡±


    ¡°Enough!¡± Seeing that Zhu Cuiying¡¯s words were getting increasingly malicious, Tong Tiehu promptly interrupted her, ¡°This is not a ce for you to throw tantrums! Make a scene again, and go back home!¡±


    Tong Tiehu, as the Vige Chief of Anping Vige, held great authority among the vigers. His stern words made Zhu Cuiying stand still on the spot.


    However, she was still fuming and ring at Qiao Xiaomai, her eyes bloodshot as if she couldn¡¯t wait to pounce on and bite her..

 Chapter 28 - 28: Punishment for False Accusations!

    Chapter 28: Punishment for False usations!


    Trantor: 549690339


    ¡°Uncle Tong, this wretched girl is making things up, you can¡¯t protect her just because she¡¯s young!¡±


    Zhu Cuiying protested.


    ¡°Vige Chief, Aunt falsely uses me of stealing her silver, you need to stand up for me!¡± Qiao Xiaomai wouldn¡¯t back down, and spoke up right away.


    Tong Tiehu¡¯s brow was so furrowed that he could¡¯ve squished a mosquito in between. He knew many girls wanted to marry his grandson, but looking at Zhu Cuiying in front of him and then thinking about the Sun Family, all he felt was disgust.


    There was absolutely no way he¡¯d allow his family to be tied to such people!


    But, this wasn¡¯t an appropriate time for such discussions, so he focused on the second issue Xiaomai had mentioned.


    ¡°Changfu¡¯s family, you imed Xiaomai stole your silver, where¡¯s your evidence?¡± He red at Zhu Cuiying.


    ¡°The evidence is the stuff in her basket! Everyone in the vige knows that slut Zhuang Luhe ran off with a random man and took all the belongings from her house, leaving them so poor they had to sell their people and house. Yet today, this wretched girl bought so many things. Everyone, tell me, where did she get the money to buy these things!¡±


    ¡°Just because my family was poor before and now that we have money to buy things, that makes this money stolen, you¡¯re talking nonsense!¡± Qiao Xiaomai rolled her eyes and, after swearing at Zhu Cuiying, turned her attention back to Tong Tiehu, ¡°Vige Chief, you need to stand up for me!¡±


    Hearing her words, Tong Tiehu¡¯s expression darkened further, he continued to re at Zhu Cuiying, ¡°This is your so-called evidence?¡±


    ¡°Isn¡¯t this enough?¡± Zhu Cuiying stubbornly shot back.


    Under Tong Tiehu¡¯s piercing gaze, Zhu Cuiying felt somewhat unsettled.


    But thinking about Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s method of earning money, she regained her confidence.


    As long as she could exploit this method, the Sun Family wouldn¡¯t mind her meddling in Qiao Ying¡¯s marriage affairs.


    ¡°Of course not! Just by these simple things you use her of stealing your silver, then 1 could say that a few days earlier my house also lost some silver, and on that particr day only you visited, so the silver must be stolen by you!¡±


    After Tong Tiehu finished saying this, even Qiao Xiaomai, who was originally quite indignant, nearly burst outughing.


    This was the same tactic that Tong Sang had used against Zhu Cuiying, turning her ill-founded conclusions against her.


    Like grandfather, like grandson!


    While Qiao Xiaomaiughed, Zhu Cuiying was nearly hopping mad, her voice even louder, ¡°Uncle Tong, don¡¯t make usations without evidence!¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m merely repeating your words, you¡¯re the one without evidence, why are you using Xiaomai of stealing your silver?¡± Tong Tiehu stood with hands behind his back, his tone somewhat chilling, ¡°Changfu¡¯s wife, if you can¡¯t present evidence, then you¡¯re guilty of false usation.¡±


    ¡°ording to the ¡®Daqi Law¡¯, false usations are punishable by beating!¡±


    ¡®Daqi Law¡¯ again!


    And yet another beating!


    Zhu Cuiying was truly panicked now, ¡°Uncle Tong, she really did steal our silver, all the things in her basket were bought with our silver!¡±


    If making false usations meant a beating, then she could only insist on her im that Qiao Xiaomai stole the silver.


    ¡°How much did you lose? When did you lose it? Was Xiaomai at your house when you lost the silver? Who saw her when she went to your house?¡± Tong Tiehu¡¯s sharp gaze caught Zhu Cuiying¡¯s panic, and he coldly interrogated her.


    ¡°She, she, she¡­ she¡­¡± Zhu Cuiying was at a loss.


    She¡¯d only decided to use Qiao Xiaomai of stealing on a whim, and she had been too busy chasing after Xiaomai to think about how to substantiate her false usation.


    Now that Tong Tiehu was asking about details, she obviously couldn¡¯t answer him..

 Chapter 29 - 29: Bring out the evidence!

    Chapter 29: Bring out the evidence!


    Trantor: 549690339


    ¡°Well, auntie, when you¡¯re trying to spin a lie, you should at least concoct the specific details as well. Can¡¯t make it sound believable in front of all these people? How embarrassing.¡± Qiao Xiaomai coldly and mockingly popped out from behind Tong Tiehu.


    Hearing this, Zhu Cuiying narrowed her eyes and shot back, ¡°Nonsense! Who can¡¯t give an answer? It was you who broke into my home and stole my silverst night, then went to town early this morning to spend it!¡±


    ¡°At night? When exactly? And how much was taken?¡± Tong Tiehu pressed for details.


    ¡°Just as it was getting dark, around dinnertime. The whole family was over at Cousin¡¯s house, there was nobody at home. This damn girl took the opportunity to steal!¡± Zhu Cuiying exined, her hands on her hips and chin held high in certainty, ¡°Little Xiaobao from Cousin¡¯s house was ill, the whole family went to visit him, and there was nobody at our house!¡±


    ¡°Rubbish! 1 had just returned from town then, how could 1 be at your house? Who saw me going there? Where¡¯s your witness?¡± Qiao Xiaomai countered, quite taken aback.


    ¡°No witnesses but you were just asking about looking through my money box. Why bring it up if you weren¡¯t so sure of yourself? You clearly did go through my money box!¡±


    Upon hearing this, Qiao Xiaomai rolled her eyes. But before she could respond, the so far reticent Tong Sang spoke up, ¡°Xiaomai and I returned from town together yesterday evening. Uncle Changsun and Dami were waiting for her by the entrance to the vige when we arrived. She couldn¡¯t have gone to your house to steal.¡±


    These words struck Zhu Cuiying and she stared incredulously at Tong Sang, ¡°You went to town with this wretch?¡±


    God, could her longstanding worries being true?


    When did this damn girl get in with Tong Sang?


    ¡°We didn¡¯t go together. We just happened to run into each other in town yesterday. I was selling game, she was selling her recipes. The money she used to shop with, was earned by selling those recipes. If you don¡¯t believe, you can ask the shopkeeper at Extreme vors Residence.¡±


    Zhu Cuiying¡¯s astonishment turned to rage. Tong Sang knew exactly what she was angry about.


    But arguing with a shrew like this was just a waste of time for him.


    He didn¡¯t care for this kind of petty squabble.


    He preferred to solve problems the simple, crude way.


    ¡°You say Xiaomai stole your silver, present the evidence. All these people are watching, the elder will handle it impartially. If you¡¯re just making unfounded usations¡­¡± He paused and turned his jet ck eyes to Tong Tiehu who stood next to him.


    Tong Tiehu, his face stern, grunted, ¡°False usations will be punished with a beating.¡±


    The vige chief of Daqi was essentially a minor official at the grassroots level, elected by the vigers to handle simple disputes among them in line with the ¡°Daqi Law¡±.


    But as Tong Sang had previously pointed out, for serious matters such as human trafficking and property usurpation, the vige chief had no authority; these had to be reported to the government office.


    However, in the case of Zhu Cuiying and Qiao Xiaomai, it was a minor issue. When Tong Tiehu said that she would be beaten for her false usations, he indeed had the authority to do so.


    Zhu Cuiying, of course, was aware of this. She trembled slightly, just as she was about to speak, Tong Tiehu grunted dismissively, ¡°Enough of your nonsense, everyone is busy eating and doesn¡¯t have time to listen to your bber. Make another baseless usation without evidence, and that is a false charge.¡±


    Zhu Cuiying, who had been preupied with Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s recipes, was now thoroughly flustered.


    It was indeed a false usation. How could she provide any evidence?


    Her gaze quickly shifted to a beautiful young woman who was standing next to Tong family¡¯s iron gate.. Seeing her, her eyes suddenly lit up, and she called out instantly, ¡°Hongyun!¡±

 Chapter 30 - 30: Fight!

    Chapter 30: Fight!


    Trantor: 549690339


    The young woman standing at the door was Zhu Hongyun, Tong Sang¡¯s second sister-inw, whose parents were from the same vige as Zhu Cuiying¡¯s parents.


    Because of this rtionship, Zhu Cuiying often visited the Tong family, on one hand to build rtionships, on the other hand to gather information about Tong Sang.


    Now she was facing the danger of being beaten, in her panic, she saw Zhu Hongyun as a lifesaver, ¡°Hongyun, you should reason with Uncle Tong¡­¡± ¡°Enough! Don¡¯t exploit your connections. If you can¡¯t provide any evidence, 1 ammanding that you be beaten!¡± Tong Tiehu interrupted her with an icy re.


    Zhu Hongyun was originally eating dinner, only attracted by Zhu Cuiying¡¯s loud voice, she grabbed a few pieces of meat with her steamed bun and ran to the door to watch themotion.


    She received a desperate pleading look from Zhu Cuiying, and was just about to speak up, but was taken aback by the harshness of Tong Tiehu.


    She bowed her head, focusing on her steamed bun.


    Seeing her in this state, Zhu Cuiying waspletely deste.


    Initially, her task was merely to collect the monthly remembrance money for the Sun Family, then she happened to see Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s basket, and thought about extorting some silver while finding out how to earn money. But how did she end up being sentenced to be beaten just after a few words?!


    That damn Qiao Xiaomai, when did she be so cunning?


    Where did that stupid girl who couldn¡¯t even fart with multiple beatings disappear off to?


    She muttered a string of obscenities in her head, but under the threat of being beaten, Zhu Cuiying¡¯s brain worked at unprecedented speed and made a quick decision.


    She took a deep breath, looked at Tong Sang and asked, ¡°You said this wretch went to the Jiwei House to sell her produce. What produce is she selling?!¡±


    Even if she couldn¡¯t avoid being beaten, forcing out the produce information might still be beneficial.


    ¡°She signed a confidentiality agreement with the shopkeeper, she can¡¯t tell anyone.¡± Tong Sang replied.


    Zhu Cuiying¡¯s beady eyes widened to their maximum, ¡°Sang, you¡¯re defending this wretch so eagerly, you couldn¡¯t have really taken a liking to her, could you? Her and her coquettish mother are birds of a feather, don¡¯t be fooled by her!¡±


    Tong Sang furrowed his eyebrows while Tong Tiehu red, ¡°Stop your nonsense!¡±


    He pointed to a few onlooking women, ¡°Detain her, and beat her!¡±


    The pointed at women passed their food bowls to a passerby and rolled up their sleeves, marched toward Zhu Cuiying.


    Zhu Cuiying panicked, disregarding her usations at Tong Sang, she threw a fearful look at Qiao Xiaomai, ¡°You ungrateful girl, I am your elder and you n to have them hit me, you are being unfilial!¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai,¡±¡­¡±


    Although she did indeed have such thought, those were clearly orders given by Tong Tiehu!


    ¡°The ¡®Daqi Laws¡¯ define filial piety as confined to grandparents and parents. You are just her aunt, even if you are her elder, you are not entitled to oppress her with the charge of ¡®unfilial piety.¡± Tong Sang said in a low voice.


    In the scenario of the niece and aunt rtionship between Qiao Xiaomai and Zhu Cuiying, the ¡®Daqi Laws¡¯ didn¡¯t explicitly stipte, thus it could only be restrained by moral or ancestral ethics.


    Yet, in a ce like Anping Vige which is mixed with various surnames, ancestral constraints do not exist.


    As for morals, Zhu Cuiying¡¯s false usationes first, so she would not have the upper hand. Hence her usations against Qiao Xiaomai are utterly absurd.


    Tong Tiehu became impatient listening to Zhu Cuiying¡¯s nonsense, his face dark, he urged, ¡°Get on with it!¡±


    At hismand, the women who were pointed at earlier immediately seized Zhu Cuiying.


    Seeing this, Tong Sang returned home. After a while, he came back holding a long bench in one hand, and a stick used for carrying loads in the other.


    Upon seeing this, the women immediately pushed Zhu Cuiying face down onto the long bench, buttocks upward, the strongest looking woman holding the stick, aiming it at Zhu Cuiying¡¯s buttocks..

 Chapter 31 - 31: It’s pointless to reason, you must fight

    Chapter 31: It¡¯s pointless to reason, you must fight


    Trantor: 549690339


    ¡°Ouch!¡±


    As the stick fell, Zhu Cuiying let out a shrill scream.


    The robust woman was not really going hard, but being beaten in front of so many people, Zhu Cuiying felt the most painful part was not her buttocks, but her face.


    In the fifty years since Anping Vige was established, only a few idle rascals had been beaten.


    She was the first woman to be beaten.


    She couldn¡¯t bear this unique honor.


    Her buttocks burned, her face seared, Zhu Cuiying yelled, ¡°Qiao Xiaomai, you base wench, just like your ungrateful mother who eloped with a strange man, you will face retribution. Heaven won¡¯t let you get away with this! You deserve to be struck by lightning!¡±


    At this curse, Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s expression remained unchanged.


    Vulgar insults were the acts of the weak. Those who were truly capable would not bother with such wasted words. Only the weak choose such an annoying way to vent their anger.


    Qiao Xiaomai remained silent, but Tong Tiehu couldn¡¯t help himself. His face grew even darker, and he sternly reprimanded, ¡°If God really were to strike someone, it would certainly be you, rumormonger who likes to nder the younger generation!¡±


    ¡°Still in the mood to curse? It seems you haven¡¯t learned your lesson. Continue the punishment!¡±


    At the end of Tong Tiehu¡¯s words, the robust woman immediately increased her strength.


    Zhu Cuiying¡¯s shrill cries grew louder, ¡°Uncle Tong, I speak the truth! Zhuang Luhe is an ungrateful wretch, and because of her, Changsun broke his leg! Everyone in the vige knows this!¡±


    ¡°Nonsense! Changsun and his wife are decent people! If you spread this baseless rumor again, don¡¯t me me for being ruthless!¡± This matter reminded Tong Tiehu and made him more stern.


    Zhu Cuiying screamed even louder, ¡°Uncle Tong, every word 1 said is true! Everyone in the vige knows! I tell the truth and get beaten for it. Uncle Tong, you can¡¯t really see this dead girl as your granddaughter-inw, can you?!¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai¡±¡­¡±


    Tong Sang¡±¡­¡±


    This woman is desperate to marry her daughter to Tong Sang, every single sentence revolves around this!


    Tong Tiehu¡¯s beard stood on end with anger, ¡°Gag her mouth! Give her another twenty strokes!¡±


    At his words, a woman holding down Zhu Cuiying pulled a sweat towel from her bosom and stuffed it into Zhu Cuiying¡¯s mouth.


    An indescribable stench of sweat and sourness was immediately filled her mouth. Zhu Cuiying cursed inwardly and moved her tongue trying to spit the towel out.


    The woman pressing her shoulders saw this and quickly covered her mouth with her hand.


    Zhu Cuiying tried to struggle, but no matter how strong she was, she could not break free from a few women¡¯s hold.


    So she endured dozens of strokes as they came.


    After the beating, her face, now full of mumps, turning deathly pale, sweat beads appearing on her forehead, and her cloth clothes also stained with blood. Her vitriolic ranting stopped as well, and she only could groan in pain faintly.


    She no longer had the strength to curse at Qiao Xiaomai.


    Looking at Zhu Cuiying in this miserable state, Qiao Xiaomai finally felt vented.


    There¡¯s no use reasoning with people who like to create chaos, they just ought to be beaten.


    Tong Tiehu snorted coldly, scanned the spectators, and then said, ¡°The kind of people Changsun and his wife are is evident to all of you. Every family has its burdens; you should understand this couple¡¯s circumstances.¡±


    ¡°If you can¡¯t understand, and insist on prying, don¡¯t let me hear it.¡±


    ¡°All of us vigers of Anping Vige are kind-hearted folk.. If anyone wants to spread rumors and stain our vige¡¯s reputation, then the Changfu family¡¯s fate will be your fate!¡±

 Chapter 32 - 32 Truth of the Rumors

    Chapter 32: Truth of the Rumors


    Trantor: 549690339


    As Tong Tiehu finished speaking, immediate echoes arose from the crowd.


    ¡°Vige Chief, rest assured, everyone knows the character of Changsun¡¯s couple well, we won¡¯t listen to some people¡¯s idle gossip.¡±


    ¡°Exactly, Vige Chief, don¡¯t be angry, although our vige has many people, everyone is kind, don¡¯t stoop to the level of a few spoil-sports!¡±


    ¡°Vige Chief, you can¡¯t be nice to such nuisances, feel free to teach them a lesson!¡±


    Listening to thesements, Qiao Xiaomai showed a hint of surprise in her eyes.


    Tong Tiehu¡¯s prestige in the vige was even higher than she had imagined!


    When he heard the vigers¡¯ments, Tong Tiehu¡¯s stern countenance lightened somewhat. ¡°Rumors concerning Changsun¡¯s couple end here. Inform others about this. I¡¯ve said my piece. Anyone found gossiping again will not be let off lightly.¡±


    The vigers all responded affirmatively.


    ¡°Alright, disperse. It¡¯s noon already, go home and eat.¡± Tong Tiehu waved his hand signaling everyone to go home.


    ¡°Also, whoever lives near Changfu¡¯s house, tell him to get his wife.¡± He added.


    The vigers answered and then dispersed.


    Earlier when Zhu Cuiying was chasing after Qiao Xiaomai, they were just spectators, remaining silent. However, now that the matter of the stolen silver was rified, and Tong Tiehu made a statement about the gossip.


    From now on, they were not allowed to spread rumors about Qiao Changshun¡¯s family.


    Only Tong Tiehu, Tong Sang, Qiao Xiaomai, Zhu Hongyun and Zhu Cuiying were left standing at the door.


    Qiao Xiaomai thanked Tong Tiehu and Tong Sang, ¡°Thank you, Grandpa Tong and Brother Sang!¡±


    As she spoke, she bowed respectfully to the two.


    Truly, her gratitude was heartfelt.


    The rumor that Qiao Changshun broke his leg due to the retribution from Luhe¡¯s unfilial piety had been circting in Anping Vige for half a year, it¡¯s aplicated story.


    During the summer ofst year, Qiao Changshun sold eggs in the town and found a jade ornament on the street. He didn¡¯t keep it for himself but waited for the owner toe back.


    The owner was a wealthy man, seeing Changshun¡¯s honesty rewarded him with fifty taels silver as a token of gratitude.


    Some other vigers were with him at that time. When they returned to the vige, this incident caused a sensation in Anping Vige.


    Fifty taels, that was a considerable sum!


    The Sun family quickly learned of this. She went to their house iming she needed to buy stationery for Sun Junyan and tried to take all fifty taels of silver.


    The normally quiet and gentle Luhe surprisingly stood her ground. She only gave the Sun family twenty taels, and with the remaining thirty taels she built a brick house, bought furnishing for their home, and spent everything.


    Because of this, the Sun family criticized Luhe vehemently and even gave her a severe beating, also publicized her and Qiao Changshun as unfilial, implying they would face retribution.


    Not long after the house was built, Qiao Changshun broke his leg while building a house in the County Town, to pay for his medical treatment, all the newly acquired items were sold to buy medicine.


    The payback came so swiftly, it was astonishing.


    The Sun family strutted around like a victorious rooster,mbasting Qiao Changshun and Luhe, and out of jealousy, because the new house wasn¡¯t hers, she beat Luhe again.


    After the beating, she continued to spread rumors that Luhe¡¯s unfilial actions resulted in Qiao Changshun¡¯s leg injury.


    This kind of thing, even in the future society could be believed, let alone here. Thus, in the past half a year, Qiao Changshun and Luhe endured countless strange and rming looks..

 Chapter 33 - 33: Going Home!

    Chapter 33: Going Home!


    Trantor: 549690339


    In Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s view, Zhuang Luhe¡¯s actions were justifiable.


    Years ago, when the Qiao Family divided their house, Qiao Changshun and Zhuang Luhe were given just fifteen acres of farnd, two bags of millet, and a few bowls and chopsticks, leaving them essentially destitute.


    At that time, Qiao Changshun and Zhuang Luhe lived in a tiny straw hut with a young child for two months during the summer, only able to build a modest thatched cabin in the fall.


    The simple thatched cabin had been their home for more than ten years. It required constant repair and would leak when it rained, with cold winters and hot summers, their living conditions were extremely harsh.


    Therefore, Qiao Xiaomai thought that what Zhuang Luhe did was right, persistently building a house despite enduring a beating and immense pressure.


    However, she did not believe in the rumors, but Zhuang Luhe did.


    Thus, Zhuang Luhe could not bear the pressure and life¡¯s hardship and ran away.


    Qiao Changshun did not initially believe it, but now he did. His leg was broken, his wife left, so when Zhu Cuiying proposed to buy his house a couple of days ago, he didn¡¯t react explosively.


    If he had taken things that he shouldn¡¯t have, retaliation was inevitable.


    Thinking about these upsetting matters, Qiao Xiaomai heaved a sigh and looked at Tong Tiehu and his son, apologizing again, ¡°Grandfather Tong, Brother Tong, please feel free to ask for my help in the future.¡±


    Tong Tiehu¡¯s reputation in the vige was even greater than she had anticipated, and now he had dered that no further discussion about rumors concerning her family would be tolerated.


    Now she can focus on making money untroubled.


    As to why Tong Tiehu didn¡¯t impose this ban before, she didn¡¯t care. She would face whateveres her way.


    ¡°Okay, you should go home. Now that you are the pir of your family, work hard.¡± Tong Tiehu looked at her, his eyes filled withpassion.


    His son also looked at her and said, ¡°If you need anything,e to grandpa. He is the Vige Chief and will stand up for you.¡±


    ¡°Great!¡± This was what Qiao Xiaomai wanted to hear, she replied crisply.


    ¡°Go home,¡± Tong Tiehu waved his hand, gesturing her to go home.


    A smile crept up on Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s face, ¡°Goodbye, Grandfather Tong, Brother Tong!¡±


    After that, she turned and ran in the direction of her home.


    When she hade to the Tong Family, Qiao Changshun and Qiao Dami had followed her. Now that the matter was resolved, they were nowhere to be found. Could they still be halfway here?


    Her guess wasn¡¯t wrong. The Qiao Family was in the west and the Tong Family in the east. She needed to walk a quarter of an hour to cover this distance herself, let alone the limping Qiao Changshun.


    When she turned the corner, she ran right into Qiao Changshun and Qiao Dami.


    Limping along, Qiao Changshun was already drenched in sweat. Seeing Qiao Xiaomai, he hurriedly asked in concern, ¡°Are you okay?!¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m fine, don¡¯t worry.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai went over to support him, ¡°Let¡¯s go home, we can talk on the way.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Qiao Changshun took a deep breath, his heart sinking back into his stomach.


    Qiao Dami also took a deep breath, he had been quite worried!


    Seeing his worried expression, Qiao Xiaomai couldn¡¯t help butugh, ¡°Let¡¯s go. We¡¯re going to make something delicious at home!¡±


    The old hen in her basket had been moving all along!


    ¡°Great!¡± A joyful look appeared on Qiao Dami¡¯s face, they had not only the hen but also pork hocks!


    Qiao Changshun, unlike Qiao Dami, didn¡¯t forget about everything else after hearing about the tasty food. He couldn¡¯t resist quietly asking, ¡°What about your aunt?¡±


    ¡°She got beaten and is immobile, lying at the vige chief¡¯s door, waiting for uncle to pick her up,¡± Jing Xiaomai said of the incident¡¯s oue quite nonchntly.


    Qiao Changshun was stunned!!

 Chapter 34 - 34: Stirring Up Trouble Again

    Chapter 34: Stirring Up Trouble Again


    Trantor: 549690339


    In the past decade or so, Qiao Changshun had seen plenty of Zhu Cuiying¡¯s domineering unruliness and irrational behavior, especially just now when she had tried to pin a theft on Xiaomai, venting her wrath as if she would like to tear Xiaomai apart alive.


    But now, Xiaomai imed that Zhu Cuiying has been beaten and couldn¡¯t move a muscle!


    God!


    Seeing Qiao Changshun¡¯s wide-eyed, tongue-tied astonishment, Xiaomai exined, ¡°Grandfather Tong has taken our side and ensured justice for me. He also issued a decree preventing further spection about our family.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Qiao Changshun became even more astonished.


    Had Tong Tiehu really helped his family this much?


    ¡°I was puzzled too, but if Grandfather Tong is willing to help us, that¡¯s a good thing,¡± said Xiaomai.


    Qiao Changshun¡¯s brows furrowed into a knot, ¡°Perhaps because we hadn¡¯t considered asking him to establish justice before¡­¡±


    Throughout the past years, when the Sun Family and Zhu Cuiying hade to create amotion and seize properties, they had swallowed their grievances.


    They never asked, so Tong Tiehu never got involved?


    ¡°That¡¯s most likely the reason,¡± Xiaomai nodded.


    At her response, Qiao Changshun¡¯s face further crumpled but he remained silent.


    Seeing his distress, Xiaomai ceased speaking with him and instead discussed with Dami what to have for lunch.


    As they walked and talked, the three of them soon arrived home.


    Qiao Changshun opened the courtyard door, and Xiaomai and Dami ran to the kitchen together, each pouring a bowl of well water.


    They had been thirsty since returning from the town. The sweet well water flowed down their throats bringing great satisfaction.


    After cing the bamboo basket down, Xiaomai took out the flour. She asked Qiao Changshun to start the fire, and quickly baked twelve pancake-sized tbreads.


    Pure white flour, without any bran, added with plenty of oil, plus Xiaomai¡¯s excellent cooking skills ¨C made twelve pancakes. Each of them had four, satisfying them thoroughly.


    Dami, holding a pancake in her small hand, was nibbling at it and smiling at Xiaomai, her mouth round and puffed up, looking rather adorable.


    ¡°Why are youughing?¡± Xiaomai asked in wonder.


    ¡°The pancakes are delicious, hence 1 feel likeughing!¡± Dami¡¯s answer was loud and clear.


    ¡°Then your sister will make youugh every day,¡± Xiaomai said, a hint of sadness in her voice.


    ¡°Great!¡± The smile on Dami¡¯s face widened.


    Qiao Changshun watched his two children from the side, the wrinkles on his face rxed slightly.


    After gobbling down four pancakes and drinking another bowl of boiled water, both Xiaomai and Dami were feeling full.


    Especially Dami, his little belly was puffed out. He was patting his belly while asking Xiaomai, ¡°Sister, does it look like the bamboo ball that dad wove?¡±


    ¡°Yes!¡± Xiaomaiughed and patted his little belly, ¡°Go rest for a while, we are going up the mountain to gather firewoodter.¡±


    The earthen stove consumed a lot of firewood. They needed to stew chicken and boil soy milk in the evening, so their home was short of firewood.


    ¡°Ok!¡± said Dami, and then he went to find a rope and a carrying basket.


    Going up the mountain, not only to collect firewood, but also to forage for wild vegetables and mushrooms.


    Xiaomai also brought out a small grinding stone, instructing Qiao Changshun to grind soy milk like grinding sweet potato chunks.


    ¡°Understood, you two go ahead up the mountain,¡± Qiao Changshun nodded.


    After giving a few more instructions, Xiaomai prepared to leave the house with Dami.


    Just as they opened the courtyard door, arge, yellow hand full of wrinkles reached out and almost struck Xiaomai¡¯s face.


    Startled, she swiftly pulled Dami back to dodge.


    At that moment, the courtyard gate was kicked open, and in strode Madam Sun with a thunderous expression on her face.


    Following behind her was Zhu Cuiying.


    Of course, Zhu Cuiying was lying on a wooden nk, being carried in..

 Chapter 35 - 35: Teaching You How to be a Person

    Chapter 35: Teaching You How to be a Person


    Trantor: 549690339


    The ones carrying Zhu Cuiying were Qiao Changfu and his son, Qiao Dazhu. Behind them trailed Qiao Ying.


    Upon seeing Qiao Xiaomai, the Sun Family and Qiao Changfu almost simultaneously opened their mouths to berate her, ¡°You despicable girl, aren¡¯t you going to apologize to your aunt right now!¡±


    Qiao Ying¡¯s face darkened like a stormy sky, she red viciously at Qiao Xiaomai, alsoshing out, ¡°You wretch, kneel and kowtow to my mother!¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai looked around at them all. Of the four people present, other than Qiao Dazhu, Sun Family, Qiao Changfu, and Qiao Ying all looked as if they could consume her out of sheer malice.


    She curled up the corners of her mouth, giggling softly. A pair of adorable dimples appeared at the corners of her mouth, drawing noticeable attention. ¡°She falsely used me of stealing silver, yet now you demand 1 apologize, where¡¯s the logic in that?¡±


    ¡°If it weren¡¯t for you, how could your aunt have been beaten!¡± Sun Family¡¯s face darkened, her thin body charging animately towards Qiao Xiaomai, her expression was fierce. ¡°Getting others to attack your aunt, wasn¡¯t that clever of you!¡±


    ¡°You wretched creature, I¡¯ll knock you dead!¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai quickly dodged, ¡°She was beaten because she lied about me stealing silver, this is what she deserved! If you don¡¯t believe it, go ask the Vige Chief. What are you doing flexing your power in my home!¡±


    On hearing the mention of the Vige Chief, The Sun Family exploded, ¡°You think the Vige Chief will protect you? Today, 1 will beat you half to death and let¡¯s see what he has to say!¡±


    Sun Family was extremely intolerant of Qiao Xiaomai using Tong Tiehu to intimidate others. Did she really think that brown-nosing the vige chief would grant her protection?


    Humph, she was eager to test if this Protective Charm truly worked!


    Watching the ferocious Sun Family charging over, Qiao Xiaomai couldn¡¯t help but curse in her mind. As long as grandparents and parents do not abuse their children to death, it would be alright as Tong Sang had said!


    Zhu Cuiying couldn¡¯t suppress her with the moral duty of filial piety, but Sun Family could!


    Letting go of Qiao Dami¡¯s hand, Qiao Xiaomai quicklymanded, ¡°Go fetch Grandfather Tong, tell him grandma wants to kill me!¡±


    Qiao Dami acknowledged and ran towards the Vige Chairman¡¯s house.


    Qiao Ying, who was standing at the doorway, seeing this, lifted her leg to chase, ¡°Qiao Dami, you stay where you are!¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai in front of everyone wouldn¡¯t dare to fight back against Sun Family, but she had no such qualms about Qiao Ying. She took a few quick steps, grabbed Qiao Ying by the hair, and gave her a kick in the back.


    Iler strength was quite impressive. Qiao Ying let out a cry of surprise, her body lurched forward a few steps and she fell face-forward into the dirt.


    ¡°I¡¯m your cousin and you dare to call me a slut, this kick serves as a lesson on how to behave.¡± Qiao Xiaomai squinted her eyes; they sparkled with a cold light.


    She had struggled for over ten years to kick her stepmother out of the house, but before she could take any big leap, she was met with the hardships of Sun Family and Zhu Cuiying!


    A sleeping tiger doesn¡¯t show its power, do they really think she¡¯s dough that can be kneaded at will!


    A ball of fire seemed to be about to explode in her chest. She turned around abruptly and red at the charging Sun Family, shouting loudly, ¡°Grandma, if you dare touch a single hair on my head, tomorrow I¡¯ll go to Bailu Academy in the town to find Uncle¡¯s teacher! I¡¯ll publicize all the atrocious things you¡¯ve done to my parents!¡±


    ¡°If you¡¯re not afraid of disgracing uncle, then by all means, go ahead and make a scene!¡±


    The ¡®uncle¡¯ Qiao Xiaomai was referring to is Sun Junyan, the youngest son of the Sun Family, who has always been her pride and joy. Now Qiao Xiaomai was using Sun Junyan as a threat.


    It was more effective than Tong Tiehu.


    The response was apparent. Sun Family froze for a moment, then suddenly exploded, even her hair seemed to stand on end.


    [It will be exined why Sun Junyan carries the surname ¡®Sun¡¯ter a_a]

 Chapter 36: Run!

    36 Chapter 36: Run!


    "You wretch, I''ll kill you today!" Sun Family''s member rushed towards Qiao Xiaomai like a cannonball, her expression fierce.


    Qiao Xiaomai promptly said, "I''m off to find Uncle''s tutor in town now. If you aren''t afraid of Uncleining about you, then just make a fuss!"


    Sun Family''s member was best at making a scene unreasonably, but she was not without a soft spot.


    Her vulnerability was Sun Junyan; she has always been hoping for Sun Junyan to pass the Imperial Examination. That way, she would be superior to others and not have to scratch a living from thend anymore.


    Schrs valued their reputation highly, and now Qiao Xiaomai was going to ruin Sun Junyan''s reputation. From her point of view, this act was no different from hacking at Sun Junyan with a knife.


    Sun Junyan had been nurtured by the entire Qiao Family for ten years. Qiao Xiaomai was going to end all of their hopes!


    A shrill scream came from Sun Family''s throat as she charged even faster at Qiao Xiaomai.


    With her overwhelming momentum, Qiao Xiaomai turned and ran.


    Seeing Qiao Ying trying to get up from the corner of her eye, she stepped on Qiao Ying''s back, forcing her back to the ground.


    Qiao Ying let out a scream, "You wretch..."


    Qiao Xiaomai didn''t bother to engage her, only keeping an eye on Sun Family''s member.


    Seeing her chasing, she continued to run.


    At this time, Qiao Changshun who was grinding soy milk in the kitchen came out. Seeing the situation between Qiao Xiaomai and Sun Family, he rubbed his hands together and kept silent.


    Seeing this, Qiao Changfu scowled and reprimanded. "Changshun, did you hear Xiaomai''s words? Daring to target Junyan, look at your good daughter! Call her over now!"


    Qiao Changshun bowed his head and did not utter a word, as if he hadn''t heard Qiao Changfu''s words.


    As Zhu Cuiyingy on the wooden board, she was moaning softly in pain and cursing, "This damn girl is rebellious. You, the head of the family, go and catch her. If she doesn''t get beaten to within an inch of her life today, who knows what she might do in the future!"


    "Alright, I''m going now!" Qiao Changfu also cursed and strode towards Qiao Xiaomai.


    On seeing this, Qiao Changshun hurriedly lifted his head. "Big brother, Xiaomai is just talking nonsense, you..."


    "Shut up!" Qiao Changfu turned back and red at him, "You can''t even control your own daughter. No wonder your sister would run away with a stranger. What use are you as a father!"


    At these words, Qiao Changshun''s chapped lips opened and closed. n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    He bowed his head again, staying silent.


    By this time, Sun Family''s member had chased Qiao Xiaomai around the bend and onto the main road leading out of Anping Vige. Qiao Xiaomai was running with her head down, while Sun Family''s member was chasing and cursing behind her, "Stand still, you brat! I''ll kill you today!"


    Qiao Xiaomai kept quiet but was always keeping an eye on Sun Family''s member.


    If she got tired and stopped chasing, and instead went to find trouble with Qiao Changshun, Xiaomai would have to go back to save him.


    But right now, Sun Family''s member was so blinded by anger that all she could think of was catching Qiao Xiaomai and beating her to death. Tired?


    She felt an endless burst of energy in her body!


    "Stop, you little brat!"


    Qiao Xiaomai rolled her eyes and kept running. Seeing that Qiao Changfu had also caught up, she slightly increased her pace, putting some distance between her and Sun Family''s member.


    "Changfu, run faster and catch her!" Upon seeing this, Sun Family''s member was so angry that she sputtered.


    With a long face, Qiao Changfu sprang into action to chase Qiao Xiaomai, kicking up clouds of dust.


    So a somewhatical scene unfolded on the main road leading out of Anping Vige: Qiao Xiaomai was running, Qiao Changfu was chasing, and Sun Family''s member trailed behind, cursing and swearing.

 Chapter 37: They Have Arrived

    37 Chapter 37: They Have Arrived


    After about as long as it takes to make a pot of tea, the Sun Family was the first to give in, copsing on the road, panting heavily from exhaustion.


    A momentter, Qiao Changfu himself also couldn''t keep going, his run turning into a walk, his mouth starting to let slip a string of curses.


    With the two of theming to a stop, Qiao Xiaomai slowed down as well, maintaining about twenty meters distance from Qiao Changfu, leisurely on her way.


    If before she had been merely trying to scare the Sun Family, to keep them from stirring up trouble for naught, then now, she truly wanted to get to town to find Sun Junyan''s master. n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    The Sun Family was always causing uproar over nothing, she may well cause a major uproar in return!


    "You wretches, stop!", eximed Qiao Changfu when he saw Qiao Xiaomai walking again and, gathering his breath, started running after her.


    Seeing this, Qiao Xiaomai also began running again, maintaining a distance of no more than thirty meters from Qiao Changfu.


    Seeing her handling the situation so well, Qiao Changfu was so frustrated he felt light-headed, but he was helpless.


    To race after her, but not being able to catch up.


    But to not chase her, that was absolutely out of the question. After spending ten years of his earnings on Sun Junyan''s education, holding out hope that Sun Junyan would make a name for himself, Sun Junyan''s future absolutely could not be ruined by Qiao Xiaomai!


    The Sun Family also held this belief, thus they doggedly panted after Qiao Changfu, running a bit and walking a bit, always following behind Qiao Changfu.


    Soon enough, the three of them had travelled half the distance and the town wasn''t far off.


    At this point, the sound of a bullock cart and a voice calling out from behind them reached their ears, "Miss Qiao, wait a moment!"


    Hearing a voice that was bing all too familiar, Qiao Xiaomai widened her eyes in disbelief, stopped in her tracks and turned to look behind her.


    Tong Sang was seen driving the ox cart, crossing in front of Sun Family and Qiao Changfu, and was heading towards her, on his handsome face was a trace of urgency which was hard to detect.


    Qiao Xiaomai''s eyes widened even more, this man was actually in pursuit on an ox cart!


    "Ah!", Tong Sang reined in his ox cart as soon as he pulled up alongside Qiao Xiaomai, making the cart stop.


    "Brother San in the Tong Family, why are you here?" Qiao Xiaomai asked, her voice filled with wonder.


    "Dami went to find my grandfather, then my grandfather and I went to your home, heard what transpired, and my grandfather asked me toe after you," Tong Sang exined. Once he reached her and saw that Qiao Xiaomai had only broken out in a light sweat with no signs of exhaustion, the urgency on his face disappeared.


    He returned to his usual calm andposed demeanor.


    "Let''s go back. My grandfather will be there and he will see that justice is done."


    "Thank you for your kindness, Brother San in the Tong Family, and Grandfather Tong. However, I still want to go to the town," Qiao Xiaomai said, her lips tightening as she watched the Sun Family and Qiao Changfu running towards her.


    "This is not the best solution, and it''s not good for your reputation," Tong Sang said disapprovingly.


    Although the Sun Family went overboard, they were elders, and they had the advantage of seniority. In ruralmunities, it was normal for elders to reprimand or scold younger generations.


    As a younger generation, Qiao Xiaomai''s running to town and disrupting the Qiao family''s hope would only make her seem ruthless in the eyes of others.


    Even if some people sided with Qiao Xiaomai, with the Qiao family visibly in distress on one side, and Qiao Xiaomai perfectly fine and full of energy on the other side, the contrast was far too stark.


    Only when there is no other option should one act in such a way.


    Qiao Xiaomai understood the ins and outs of this. Unlike future times where one could close their doors and live life on their own, in ancient viges, it was important to maintain good rtionships with the vigers, and having a good reputation was crucial.


    Moreover, she was nning to sell tofu and conduct business in the vige.


    She took a deep breath and nodded, "Alright."


    This time, she chose to back down!

 Chapter 38 The Family

    38 Chapter 38 The Family


    Qiao Xiaomai tolerated it and stepped onto the oxcart.


    At this point, Qiao Changfu finally came rushing over. He waved to Qiao Xiaomai while greeting Tong Sang, "Sang, why are you here?"


    Tong Sang''s handsome face was cold. He raised his hand, urately catching Qiao Changfu''s descending arm, "Uncle Changfu, my grandfather asked me to take Miss Qiao home. If there''s any issue, let the old man decide after we get back."


    As he finished speaking, he forcefully pushed Qiao Changfu away.


    Staggering backwards a few steps, Qiao Changfu looked incredulously at Tong Sang, "Sang, are you really interested in this damned girl?"


    Qiao Xiaomai, "..."


    Indeed, he and Zhu Cuiying think alike!


    Tong Sang did not answer, but grabbed the reins again, turning the oxcart towards Anping Vige.


    Qiao Changfu yelled from behind, "Her mother ran off with another man and cuckolded Changsun. Aren''t you afraid that she''ll do the same to you in the future?"


    Qiao Xiaomai, "..."


    She put a hand over her face.


    Damn!


    This is so embarrassing!


    Tong Sang, as stoic as ever, whipped the ox, quickening their pace. n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om


    The oxcart kicked up dust, spraying it all over Qiao Changfu''s face.


    At this point, Lady Sun came over. Her face was pale from exhaustion, she didn''t even have the energy to scold Qiao Xiaomai, "Sang, you....."


    Before she could utter the words "Stop and let me get on", Tong Sang whipped the ox once more.


    The sharp whip sound rang out, and the ox pulling the cart started to run even faster.


    As a result, more dust was kicked up, again covering Lady Sun''s face.


    With a mouthful of dirt, Lady Sun quickly spat onto the ground.


    Upon hearing this, Lady Sun spat harshly onto the ground, "A toad wants to eat swan meat, this wretched girl wants totch onto the Tong Family, no way!"


    09:12


    By the time she lifted her head again, Tong Sang and Qiao Xiaomai were already far away.


    Just about to scold, Qiao Changfu walked over, wondering, "Mother, do you think Tong Sang could have really taken a liking to that wretched girl?"


    Whether it is his daughter Qiao Ying or his younger sister Qiao Meipan, it would be good if either could marry Tong Sang.


    Upon hearing this, Lady Sun spat harshly onto the ground, "A toad wants to eat swan meat, this wretched girl wants totch onto the Tong Family, no way!"


    "Let''s go, back home!"


    With a coldugh, ideas of punishing Qiao Xiaomai shed through Lady Sun''s mind as she walked towards Anping Vige.


    When she and Qiao Changfu arrived at Qiao Xiaomai''s house, Qiao Xiaomai was leisurely drinking sweet well water from a bowl, sitting on a small stool. Her peach-blossom eyes were bright and moist, her cheeks flushed, a stark contrast to them, covered in dust and dirt.


    Lady Sun immediately exploded in anger again, taking a step forward, she tried to strike Qiao Xiaomai, "You damned girl..."


    "Old woman, stop!" A stern voice rang out, startling Lady Sun into immobility.


    It was Qiao Qinghe, the head of the Qiao family.


    Unlike the gaunt Lady Sun, Qiao Qinghe was tall and handsome. Even as a middle-aged vige man who toils in the fields, his inherent gentle demeanor made him stand out in a crowd.


    "Head of the family, when did you arrive?" Lady Sunughed dryly, lowering her raised arm.


    Earlier, she got so angry, focusing only on Qiao Xiaomai and hadn''t even noticed Qiao Qinghe''s presence.


    Qiao Qinghe snorted coldly, scolding, "If I hadn''te over, would you really have beaten Xiaomai to death?!"


    When Qiao Xiaomai was mentioned, Lady Sun''s lowered voice immediately raised again, "It''s clearly that girl with a wicked heart trying to harm our Xiaowu, what do you mean by this?!"


    "Enough, go home. Aren''t you ashamed enough yet!" Qiao Qinghe raised his voice, showing unprecedented harshness in his expression.

 Chapter 39 - 39: Shameless

    Chapter 39: Shameless


    Trantor: 549690339


    Qiao Qinghe rarely lost his temper, and seeing his face turn stern, Madame Sun subconsciously shrank back.


    However, thinking of the two things Xiaomai had done today, her fear immediately turned into anger. She put her hands on her hips, stiffened her neck and yelled at Qiao Qinghe, ¡°Clearly it¡¯s this wicked girl, ck-hearted and evil-hearted, inciting others to beat her own aunt, and even nning to stir up trouble at the academy in town so that Xiaowu can¡¯t study. Look around, in all the eight or ten viges around, which girl is so vicious!¡±


    ¡°She dares to do this just because we chided her a bit, next time will she straight up attack people with a knife? If we don¡¯t beat her hard today, instill fear in her, who knows what she¡¯ll do in the future!¡±


    ¡°Shut up! If it weren¡¯t for Cuiying falsely using her of stealing silver first, why would she go looking for the Vige Chief! You only saw Cuiying getting beaten, didn¡¯t you see how Cuiying was spreading rumors and trying to ruin her first?¡± Qiao Qinghe was even angrier, his face turning a little red due to fury.


    ¡°Junyan is about to be engaged, yet you are stirring up trouble here. Aren¡¯t you afraid that your actions will tarnish Junyan¡¯s reputation at the academy someday?¡±


    ¡°Repeatedly behaving disrespectfully, are you not afraid that the Vige Chief will punish you too!¡±


    If the previous sentence was not enough to make Madame Sun take things seriously, thest sentence certainly made her heart jump.


    Madame Sun was stunned and she incredulously looked at Tong Tiehu.


    Tong Tiehu pulled a stern face, saying solemnly, ¡°As long as you vite the ¡®Daqi Law¡¯, regardless if you¡¯re old or a child, you¡¯ll be punished! And it¡¯s not just punishment, if it exceeds what I as a Vige Chief can manage, you¡¯ll be sent to the government office to face justice!¡±


    His voice was cold, his gaze sharp. Coupled with his intimidating aura and respect for ¡®Daqi Law¡¯ and the government office, all of this caused Madame Sun to shiver imperceptibly.


    With both the Vige Chief, and her head of household giving her stern looks, the fear in Madame Sun¡¯s heart rose again.


    However, upon thinking about the two things Xiaomai had done today, she remained stubborn, ¡°Whatw am I viting by hitting my own granddaughter? This wicked girl dares to set her sights on my Junyan, even killing her won¡¯t alleviate my anger!¡±


    ¡°Fine, then kill her. Afterwards, you¡¯ll be caned fifty times and locked up for three years! With a mother in prison, I¡¯d like to see how Xiaowu will continue studying at the academy!¡±


    Madame Sun gritted her teeth, apparently this was the consequence of killing someone!


    However, Qiao Xiaomai felt a chill in her heart, oh crap! So this was the consequence of killing someone.


    God, the Protection Policy for Minors is really necessary here!


    However, upon thinking that the age of adulthood here was fifteen, Xiaomai couldn¡¯t help but curse again, being a parent sure is great!


    ¡°Who said I actually wanted to kill her? I was just speaking out of anger, I¡¯ve always been most fond of Changsun, she¡¯s Changsun¡¯s daughter, could 1 really kill her?¡± Madame Sun snorted, her arrogant air somewhat deted.


    Qiao Xiaomai


    This woman¡¯s shamelessness was far worse than her previous stepmother¡¯s.


    ¡°If you really cared about my dad, would you publicize his unfilial deeds throughout the vige? If you really cared about my dad, would you have exploited him all these years? Controlling the food, keeping him neither full nor starving, clinging to him like a leech sucking his blood, is that something a loving mother would do?¡±


    ¡°My dad is not even thirty-five yet, but standing next to my grandpa, he looks older than my grandpa. Grandma, is this what you call caring for him?¡±


    ¡°In front of Elder Tong, how could you have the audacity to utter such words?!¡±

 Chapter 40 - 40: Stir up a Separation again!

    Chapter 40: Stir up a Separation again!


    Trantor: 549690339


    The constant mantra that Qiao Xiaomai had exposed in front of everyone, especially the stark contrast between Qiao Changshun and Qiao Qinghe, was exactly as she had described it.


    Sun Family immediately stamped her foot, raising her previously lower arm to p Qiao Xiaomai. ¡°You ungrateful girl, always talking back to your elders, are you tired of living!¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai swiftly stands up and takes two steps back.


    But her words won¡¯t stop, ¡°Grandma, don¡¯t go around spouting nonsense about how much you love my dad. He can¡¯t handle your kind of love!¡±


    ¡°You ungrateful wretch¡­!¡± Sun Family¡¯s face darkens even more upon hearing these words. She was about to curse, but Qiao Qinghe¡¯s stern shout interrupts her. ¡°Enough! If you continue to make a fuss, I will move out and live on my own. I can¡¯t control you, from now on we¡¯ll split up, and you can do whatever you want!¡±


    As soon as these words came out, Sun Family, who was baring her teeth and ws, seemed to be struck by lightning. Her body stiffens and she can¡¯t believe it as she turns her head to look at Qiao Qinghe.


    Qiao Qinghe takes a deep breath, his pitch-ck eyes staring at Sun Family, he says word by word, ¡°If you continue to make a fuss, I will move into Xiaowu¡¯s house right now and split up!¡±


    When a manes of age in the vige, a plot ofnd is allocated for him to build a new house for his future marriage.


    Sun Junyan has alreadye of age, and he also has a plot ofnd in the vige, but it is only a wastnd, without a house built.


    But Qiao Qinghe would rather live in the deste house without anything than live under the same roof with Sun Family, which shows the degree of his anger.


    Sun Family finallyes to her senses, pping her thigh, and instantly thought of sitting on the ground crying, ¡°Oh my God¡­¡±


    ¡°Shut up! If you say another word, we¡¯ll divorce!¡± Qiao Qinghe interrupts her.


    Divorce.


    For Sun Family, this is a lethal weapon. Once these words are spoken, the voice in Sun Family¡¯s throat instantly disappears. She stares at Qiao Qinghe with her mouth agape, dumbfounded.


    Seeing that Sun Family finally knows fear, Qiao Qinghe turns his gaze to Qiao Changfu, ¡°Take your wife back home now! How dare you show your face after framing Xiaomai and having her beaten!¡±


    Having been scolded, Qiao Changfu feels wronged. He points at Zhu Cuiying who is lying on the wooden board, ¡°Father, even if Cuiying is wrong, this wretch shouldn¡¯t just stand by and watch her get beaten. Moreover, now Cuiying is beaten like this, this wretch must pay for Cuiying¡¯s medicine.¡±


    This is Sun Family and Zhu Cuiying¡¯s main goal: to beat Qiao Xiaomai half to death, and then snatch the silver coins from Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s vegetable selling.


    Now Qiao Xiaomai¡¯splexion is rosy and she¡¯s hopping around, while he¡¯s panting heavily from exhaustion.


    And Qiao Ying has taken a couple of kicks, and they haven¡¯t even seen a single copper coin.


    How could he leave!


    ¡°You!¡± Qiao Qinghe¡¯s face turns even redder with anger at Qiao Changfu¡¯s shamelessness. He looks at Qiao Dazhu crouching nearby, and exhales, ¡°Dazhu, carry your mother back!¡±


    Qiao Dazhu reacts with an ¡®oh¡¯, stands up, and steps over to Zhu Cuiying to carry her.


    Qiao Dazhu is the eldest son of Zhu Cuiying and Qiao Changfu. At seventeen this year, he is of marriageable age. With his square face andrge ears, he is honest and simple, and doesn¡¯t take after Qiao Changfu and Zhu Cuiying at all.


    He also feels that his parents are in the wrong, but his opposition is ineffective, so he can only obey.


    Now the head of the Qiao Family has spoken, so he quickly hoist up Zhu Cuiying onto his back,pletely ignoring his mother¡¯s struggle.


    Seeing this, Qiao Changfu quickly curses, ¡°Stupid idiot, if you don¡¯t get money from that wretch, what will you use to buy medicine for your mother?¡±

 Chapter 41 - 41: Key Threats

    Chapter 41: Key Threats


    Trantor: 549690339


    ¡°We do have some money,¡± retorted Qiao Dazhu with a gruff voice.


    ¡°What money? Not even enough for you to get married! Now put down your mother. This damn girl just sold some vegetables, she¡¯s notcking silver, you don¡¯t need to pity her!¡± said Qiao Changfu, taking steps to pull Zhu Cuiying off Qiao Dazhu¡¯s body.


    Qiao Ying, who had been covering her mouth, finally couldn¡¯t help but speak, ¡°Big brother, look at the blood on our mother, then think about our family¡¯s situation! You can¡¯t even get married!¡±


    Though she spoke, her right hand was still covering her mouth.


    Qiao Xiaomai had caused her to fall and she bit her lip resulting in some bleeding.


    Feeling slightly ashamed, she didn¡¯t want Tong Sang to see her looking dishevelled, so she kept her mouth covered.


    ¡°This is not your ce to speak! A maiden, who is yet to be married, causing trouble in your uncle¡¯s house ¨C have you no shame!¡± Qiao Qinghe retorted, ring at her.


    The word ¡°married¡± was a sensitive subject for Qiao Ying who wanted to marry Tong Sang; she self-consciously looked at him.


    Tong Sang¡¯s handsome face was expressionless, not even giving her a nce.


    However, Tong Tiehu did speak up, ¡°Qinghe, you need to have some control over your household. Don¡¯t mention vige reputation, let¡¯s talk about your son Junyan, he is a schr, he highly values reputation. If these affairs get out, how would he hold his head high among his peers?¡±


    When he remarked on ¡®them¡¯, Tiehu pointed at everyone ¨C the Sun Family, Qiao Changfu, Zhu Cuiying, and Qiao Ying ¨C with a stern expression on his face.


    His frivolous finger-pointing stunned Qiao Ying, and shame surged up in her heart. She lowered her head and ran home, her mouth still covered.


    She had not only lost face in front of Tong Sang but also in front of Tong Tiehu. Marrying Sang seems even more difficult now!


    As Qiao Ying ran away, Tong Tiehu continued to speak. In an earnest tone, he said, ¡°Qinghe, Junyan is just a student now, but his mother and uncle are already causing so much chaos. If he bes an official, wouldn¡¯t they bully everyone under his jurisdiction?¡±


    ¡°The current emperor rules with benevolence and values a person¡¯s character more than their talent. With family members like these, even if Junyan has the capability to be an official, thinking about the people under his rule, the emperor will not let him be one.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Qiao Qinghe¡¯s face grew serious, while the Sun Family and Qiao Changfu uncontrobly shivered, faces coloured with fear.


    Seeing this, Tong Tiehu huffed, ¡°Don¡¯t think I¡¯m just babbling nonsense. If you don¡¯t believe it, ask Junyan when hees back!¡±


    The Sun family had never thought the situation could escte so severely. She looked at Qiao Qinghe in horror.


    Qiao Qinghe¡¯s face was more solemn than ever, ¡°Get lost!¡±


    The Sun family did not utter a word; she obediently left.


    Qiao Dazhu also left, carrying Zhu Cuiying on his back.


    Zhu Cuiying, who was initially trying to struggle, became quiet after hearing this. Sheid down on Qiao Dazhu¡¯s back without making a sound.


    Only Qiao Changfu was left. His lips quivered, trying to say something, but Qiao Qinghe chastised him, ¡°Get lost!¡±


    ¡°Dad, this month¡¯s filial piety money¡­¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll give it to grandfather,¡± Qiao Xiaomai said as she ran back to the courtyard, took out a hundred copper coins from her pocket, held them in her hands, and gave them to Qiao Qinghe.


    Qiao Qinghe frowned, hesitated for a moment, but finally epted the money.


    Seeing this, Qiao Changfu no longer had a reason to stay. He left reluctantly.


    ¡°Thank you, Elder Tong!¡± Once the troublemakers left, Qiao Xiaomai immediately bowed and thanked Tong Tiehu.


    Having such a vige chief is wonderful!


    Seeing a sense of loss on Qiao Qinghe¡¯s face, Qiao Xiaomai immediately bowed again, ¡°Thank you, Grandpa!¡±


    At her words, Qiao Qinghe¡¯s expression becameplex. He was the reason for the chaos in the first ce, but now Qiao Xiaomai was thanking him..

 Chapter 42 - 42: Making Tofu

    Chapter 42: Making Tofu


    Trantor: 549690339


    Sighing, Qiao Qinghe spoke, ¡°1¡¯11 pay more attention to teaching them in the future.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Qiao Xiaomai only smiled and didn¡¯t say anything. Her pair of bright, moist, peach blossom eyes kept staring at him.


    Her gaze was clear and pure. It made Qiao Qinghe¡¯s heart ache. He pursed his lips, turned to Tong Tiehu to offer a greeting, and then stalked off withrge strides.


    Tong Tiehu watched his retreating figure, then turned to Qiao Xiaomai, ¡°Alright, after all thismotion, I and Third Son are heading back.¡±


    ¡°Thank you, Grandpa Tong and Third Brother Tong.¡± Qiao Xiaomai expressed her thanks again.


    Qiao Changshun and Qiao Dami, who had remained silent, also expressed their gratitude.


    Tong Tiehu waved his hands, signaling they didn¡¯t need to thank him any further. Then he climbed into the oxcart and let his third son lead the ox back home.


    The entrance of the Qiao Family home returned to its usual quiet state.


    Qiao Xiaomai, with her big coarse porcin bowl of water, returned to the courtyard. ¡°Dad, you continue grinding the soy milk. Dami and 1 will go to the mountains to gather firewood.¡±


    ¡°Xiaomai, you ¡­¡± Qiao Changshun looked guilty.


    He was useless, couldn¡¯t protect his daughter, couldn¡¯t stop his wife from leaving.


    He had heard Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s usations against the Sun Family earlier. ¡°Barely enough to keep hunger at bay, but not enough to starve.¡± These six words were an apt description from Xiaomai.


    ¡°That¡¯s enough, don¡¯t say anything more. Let¡¯s continue with our work. Now that we can earn money, our lives will certainly get better and better.¡± Qiao Xiaomai picked up her basket again and led Qiao Dami out of the courtyard.


    By threatening the Sun Family with Sun Junyan¡¯s future and Qiao Qinghe¡¯s marriage, she managed to get the Sun Family to quiet down for a time and saved the money they earned from selling starch.


    That was good.


    Yes, once the tofu is made tonight, she would send a portion each to the Tong Family and the Qiao Family.


    Seeing Qiao Xiaomai leave the house as if everything was normal, Qiao Changshun stood on the spot for a while. Then, with a heavy sigh, he turned and headed towards the kitchen.


    By the time Qiao Xiaomai returned, carrying a basket of wild vegetables and arge bundle of firewood, Qiao Changshun had already ground five pounds of soybeans into soy milk.


    The soy milk had been ground very finely, it was white, just like milk.


    Qiao Dami expressed her astonishment, ¡°Soybeans are yellow, this is white!¡±


    ¡°Yes, this is white. It will be sweet and fragrant once it¡¯s cooked,¡± Qiao Xiaomaiughed.


    She took out a cloth to filter the soy milk. Although the soybean residue didn¡¯t seem significant, there was quite a bit of it.


    Setting the residue aside, she started cooking the filtered soy milk.


    Qiao Changshun stoked the fire, a high me raging over the wood. Soon, the soy milk was ready. As she had predicted, the kitchen filled with the pleasing aroma of soybeans.


    Qiao Dami kept sniffing with her small nose, ¡°Big sister, this smells good.¡±


    ¡°And it tastes good too.¡± Qiao Xiaomai signaled for Qiao Changshun to put out the fire. She lifted the pot lid and scooped the steaming hot soy milk into a basin.


    This was for the three of them to drink.


    The aroma of the soy milk was too tempting. Qiao Dami held her bowl and started sipping without waiting for it to cool.


    Qiao Xiaomai also picked up her bowl for a sip. Hmm, it was very rich and fragrant. It would definitely be even better with some cane sugar added.


    Sipping from his bowl, Qiao Changshun couldn¡¯t help but exim, ¡°All these years of eating soybeans, I had no idea there was this way to consume them.¡±


    Soybeans, also known as beans, are usually cooked with millet, forming a dish called bean rice.


    Or they¡¯re used to make miso paste.


    But eating too many soybeans can cause bloating, so not many people use them as a staple food. Here, people mostly consumed wheat and millet.


    ¡°There are even better ways to eat it.¡± After finishing her bowl of soy milk quickly, Qiao Xiaomai started making tofu.


    Qiao Xiaomai didn¡¯t have gypsum or bittern. She used white vinegar to curdle the soy milk.


    As a cooking enthusiast, she made her own starch, and making tofu was certainly no exception. She had done this many times before and was proficient in the technique, slowly stirring as she poured vinegar into the pot.


    Soon, the soy milk coagted, and tofu pudding formed..

 Chapter 43 - 43 Sweet and Salty Tofu Pudding

    Chapter 43: Sweet and Salty Tofu Pudding


    Trantor: 549690339


    The white and tender tofu pudding in the ck iron pot looked very tempting.


    Dami scooped out three bowls with a spoon, and then she took out the maltose she had bought in the morning, ¡°Dad, Dami, this is tofu pudding. If you want to eat salty ones, you can add soybean sauce. If you want to eat sweets, just add maltose.¡±


    As she spoke, she scooped up a bit of soybean sauce and put it in the bowl. When it came to tofu pudding, she preferred salty.


    Qiao Dami couldn¡¯t wait to pinch a piece of maltose and threw it into the bowl. Sweet taste was precious to the Qiao Family, and he wanted to eat sweet!


    Qiao Changshun hesitated for a moment, but also pinched a piece of maltose.


    Seeing this, Xiaomai spoke up, ¡°Next time we go to town, I will buy some cane sugar. Maltose is not as good as cane sugar.¡±


    ¡°Maltose is very good.¡± Qiao Changshun subconsciously wanted to save money.


    Qiao Dami also nodded, ¡°Maltose is very sweet!¡±


    In response, Xiaomai remained silent. In the future, she should just buy whatever she wanted without seeking their opinions.


    Upon tasting the tofu pudding, it was tender, smooth, and fragrant. Xiaomai narrowed her eyes in satisfaction; her throat still preferred this delicate dish.


    ¡°It¡¯s delicious, it¡¯s delicious, it¡¯s delicious!¡± Dami, leaning on the stove, pounced the tofu pudding into his mouth with chopsticks, and his cheeks became puffy from the food, making him look like a cute little squirrel.


    ¡°Sister is so amazing!¡± His small face turned to Xiaomai, his shiny big eyes full of admiration.


    These two days, he had eaten as much good food as he had in a year!


    ¡°There are even more amazing things.¡± Xiaomai put down her bowl, found a piece of gauze and put it into the bamboo basket. Then she scooped all the tofu pudding in the pot into the bamboo basket.


    After wrapping all the tofu pudding in the gauze, she found a wooden board the same size as the bamboo basket to cover it. Then she ced the Stone Mill on top of the board, using its weight to press out the water content from the tofu pudding.


    ¡°Good, just wait, and the tofu wille out quickly.¡± She pped her hands, picked up the bowl and continued to eat her tofu pudding.


    By this time, Changshun and Dami had finished their tofu pudding and were continuing to drink soy milk.


    Dami was as usualvish with his praises, while Changshun¡¯s eyes were unusuallyplex as he watched Xiaomai.


    ¡°Xiaomai, is this your idea?¡±


    If she made the soymilk using the method of making starch, then what about this tofu pudding and tofu¡­


    People have been eating soybeans for thousands of years, but this method has never been seen before.


    In response to Changshun¡¯s question, Xiaomai calmly nodded, ¡°Yes, it is my idea. Our family is poor and my cooking skills are good, so every day 1 ponder on how to make food. The soy milk is made using the method of making starch, but the tofu was discovered identally when I poured vinegar while boiling soy milk. That¡¯s how I found out this way of eating soybeans.¡±


    ¡°I originally nned to reveal this on Dami¡¯s birthday, but¡­¡±


    In a few more days, Dami would be celebrating his seventh birthday. Her exnation madeplete sense.


    As expected, Changshun no longer doubted her. The brow that he had just rxed furrowed again.


    Xiaomai didn¡¯t care about his difort, she quickly finished the tofu pudding in her bowl, and then began to pour soy milk into the pot again.


    The soy milk made from five kilograms of soybeans was a lot, she couldn¡¯t boil all of it in one pot, so she had to do it in two batches.


    Seeing this, Changshun sat down in front of the stove, preparing to start a fire.


    ¡°Dad, you start the fire, I will wash the pig¡¯s feet and stew it.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Dami hurriedly asked, ¡°What about the old hen?¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s eat that tomorrow, 1 can¡¯t handle it today.¡±


    ¡°Okay!¡± Dami crisply agreed.


    Good things should be eaten slowly; if everything was eaten in one day, there would be nothing left for tomorrow..

 Chapter 44 - 44 Continue Running!

    Chapter 44: Continue Running!


    Trantor: 549690339


    On the left of the Qiao family¡¯s small courtyard was a vegetable patch, and beside it was a well. By the well stood a simple stove, used by Qiao Changshun to boil medicine.


    As therge iron pot was upied by soy milk, Qiao Xiaomai had to use the small stove to cook the pig¡¯s feet.


    She cleaned the pig¡¯s feet, cut them into pieces, then ced them in a pottery jar, added water, and began to heat it over high heat.


    After removing the blood from the pig¡¯s feet, she retrieved them and poured the water out of the pottery jar, then filled it again with clean water.


    She put the pig¡¯s feet back in, and also added green onions, ginger, and soybeans.


    ¡°Dami,e and keep the fire going.¡± Qiao Xiaomai called Qiao Dami over, ¡°Use a small me and let it burn for a while.¡±


    Qiao Dami, who had been hovering around Qiao Xiaomai, obediently sat next to the well and tended the fire.


    It was already evening by then. The sun was hanging in the west, emitting an orange glow that bathed the little courtyard of the Qiao family in beautiful colors.


    After all the chores, Qiao Xiaomai finally took a moment to catch her breath.


    It had been quite a tumultuous day.


    Thinking back to the incident at noon, she took a stool into the kitchen.


    ¡°Dad, 1¡¯11 take the tofu to the Tong family and our ancestral houseter. I¡¯ll handle the Tong family, and you go to the ancestral house.¡±


    ording to Qiao Dami, Tong Tiehu not only had Tong Sang drive the ox cart to chase after her, but he also specifically prohibited people from viewing the noon spectacle.


    With such consideration from Tiehu, regardless of his reasons for helping her, she must express the gratitude she owed him.


    As for the old yard of the Qiao family, Qiao Qinghe had helped her, and he was an elder. So, the tofu had to be delivered.


    However, if she did not go to the old yard, Zhu Cuiying might use her of stealing silver. If she did go, there was no telling what Zhu Cuiying might invent. So, it was more appropriate for Qiao Changshun to deliver the tofu to the old yard.


    Qiao Changshun agreed to this, saying simply,¡±Okay.¡±


    After waiting a bit longer, Qiao Xiaomai looked at the bamboo basket and a faint smile appeared on her face.


    The tofu was ready!


    She moved the stone mill aside, took the wooden board away, and then lifted the gauze cloth.


    The pure white tofu had been pressed into the size of the bamboo basket, soft and springy to the touch.


    She broke off a small piece and tasted it. The smile on her face broadened.


    The taste was good, she could sell tofu to make money now!


    It was gettingte. She quickly cut tworge pieces, ¡°Dad, 1¡¯11 go to the Tong family first. You can bring this piece to the old yard after the soy milk is done.¡±


    Qiao Changshun agreed.


    Qiao Xiaomai left the house and went straight to the Tong family, arriving there a quarter of an hourter as the night hadpletely fallen.


    The moon rose, casting a blurred veil over the entire Anping Vige.


    Qiao Xiaomai was not in the mood to appreciate the moonlight, she knocked on the iron gate of the Tong family.


    Footsteps approached, and the familiar voice of Tong Sang was also heard, ¡°Who is it?¡±


    ¡°Tong Sang, it¡¯s me,¡± Qiao Xiaomai replied.


    Upon hearing her, Tong Sang moved faster towards the gate. He opened the iron gate and, in the moonlight, scrutinized Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s face, ¡°What, your grandmother caused trouble again?¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai stammered, ¡°¡­1¡­ I¡¯m here to deliver tofu.¡±


    She raised the basket in her hand towards Tong Sang, ¡°Just like the jelly, this is a new food that I havee up with. I brought some for Grandpa Tong and you to try.¡±


    Tong Sang looked inside the basket at the tofu, then reached out his hand.


    Qiao Xiaomai, in her hurry, handed the tofu over. This time, she didn¡¯t use a te; she just put the tofu directly into the basket.


    ¡°It tastes good, whether it¡¯s eaten cold, stir-fried, or boiled. They¡¯re made from soybeans,¡± Qiao Xiaomai exined, then hurried her speech, ¡°You should go back, Tong Sang. My dad and Dami are waiting for me at home, I need to go back for dinner.¡±


    Before he could respond, she turned around, grabbed her basket, and ran away..

 Chapter 45 - 45 She must have fallen in a funny way

    Chapter 45: She must have fallen in a funny way


    Trantor: 549690339


    However.


    With darkness falling and eager to return home, she didn¡¯t notice the small stone under her foot.


    The moment she stepped on it, her foot slipped, causing her body to uncontrobly stagger forwards.


    She cursed fiercely in her mind!


    Just as she was about to fall face first into the dirt, an arm appeared from behind, urately seizing her shoulder.


    The strong arm pulled her stumbling body right back up from its impending fall.


    It was Tong Sang.


    Standing just about a step away from Qiao Xiaomai, he had swiftly reached out and pulled her up as he saw her about to fall over.


    ¡°It¡¯s dark, and the path is slippery, Miss Qiao. You should go back slowly.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai¡±¡­¡±


    Her face suddenly flushed with embarrassment. This was extremely awkward!


    With a voice barely louder than a mosquito buzz, she wrenched herself free from Tong Sang¡¯s grip, not turning back or saying thanks, and continued on her way.


    ¡°Miss Qiao, let me walk you home.¡± Tong Sang offered, looking at her frail figure.


    ¡°No need!¡± Qiao Xiaomai hurriedly refused.


    The reason she wanted to flee was due to the series of chaotic events that unfolded today, that somehow involved her, Zhu Cuiying, Qiao Changfu, and Tong Sang.


    Although she had no choice, she couldn¡¯t deny the fact that she was somehow tied up with Tong Sang now.


    And it was indeed a terribly embarrassing situation.


    Thus, she was not eager to spend any more time with Tong Sang.


    Just as she nned to speed up and leave, lo and behold, a tiny stone just had to appear under her feet and make her stumble!


    She was trying to leave, but then!!!


    Despite not having personally witnessed the situation, she knew her near fall must have beenical!


    The terrifying part was, would Tong Sang think she was doing this deliberately to gain his attention?


    It seemed that she was using some kind of strategy to attract him!


    Considering this possibility, she gritted her teeth, kept her eyes on the ground, and quickened her pace.


    She must avoid seeing Tong Sang for a while, definitely must!


    Lost in her thoughts, she didn¡¯t notice the tall and sturdy figure trailing behind her.


    Halfway around a corner, she finally noticed the shadow behind her.


    Startled, she instinctively wanted to retrieve a knife from her bag, but paused when she got a clearer look.


    Rubbing her face vigorously, she continued walking with her head down.


    Upon reaching her doorstep, she halted, turned back to the figure who had been maintaining a ten-metre distance from her, and said, ¡°Wait a moment, Brother Tong, I¡¯ll cut you a slice of tofu.¡±


    She paused, then added, ¡°As a protection payment.¡±


    It was dark and the road was long; his silentpany had an obvious protective air, which she appreciated.


    Tong Sang didn¡¯t respond, but he did stop walking.


    Taking his silence as agreement, Qiao Xiaomai quickly went into the kitchen, cut half the tofu she just made, and brought it to him with both hands, ¡°Here.¡±


    Looking at therge piece of tofu, Tong Sang¡¯s mouth twitched as he received it.


    Qiao Xiaomai turned and walked home without uttering a word.


    Tong Sang, cradling the tofu in both hands, nced at her retreating figure, and headed home himself.


    Once Qiao Xiaomai entered the courtyard and shut the door behind her, she took a deep breath of relief.


    Praying to avoid any unintentionally suggestive actions, she sincerely wished not to casually run into Tong Sang again.


    Really, she just wanted to be a quiet girl making her money!


    She swore by heaven and earth, she had no ulterior motives towards the vige bumpkin, Tong Sang!

 Chapter 46 - 46 Tong Family

    Chapter 46: Tong Family


    Trantor: 549690339


    Qiao Dami was sitting on a small stool, stoking the fire. Seeing Qiao Xiaomai leaning against the courtyard door and taking deep breaths, he asked out of curiosity, ¡°Sister, what are you doing?¡±


    ¡°Nothing.¡± Qiao Xiaomai rubbed her face with her hand and walked towards him, ¡°Hasn¡¯t father returned yet?¡±


    ¡°No.¡±


    ¡°It smells so good!¡± Qiao Xiaomai took a deep breath, the aroma of the pig¡¯s trotters was already wafting out.


    Although she had just eaten tofu pudding and drank soy milk, she was still hungry.


    ¡°We¡¯ll start eating when father returns! I¡¯ll go and light up the tofu.¡±


    ¡°Good, good.¡± Qiao Dami nodded vigorously. He wasn¡¯t hungry, but the fragrance of the pig¡¯s trotters had enticed all the gluttonous worms in his stomach!


    Qiao Xiaomai rubbed his little head and stepped into the kitchen.


    Meanwhile, with Tong Sang.


    He carried therge tofu weighing seven or eight jins back home. Zhu Hongyun had already prepared the previously brought tofu into a cold dish.


    Simply sprinkling some scallions, pouring in sesame oil and salt, the taste was already wonderful.


    Upon seeing Tong Sang carrying back such arge piece of tofu, Zhu Hongyun couldn¡¯t help but be surprised, ¡°Sang, could it be that Qiao Xiaomai really has her eyes on you?!¡±


    Tong Sang washed his hands and sat down by the dining table in the hall, simply saying, ¡°She is just thanking me for sending her home.¡±


    Zhu Hongyun clicked her tongue a few times, ¡°The timing of her offering tofu is really good. Clearly, she wanted you to escort her home at this hour.¡± ¡°Sang, many girls in the vige have given you handkerchiefs, but nobody has evere over at this time. You be careful, now I see how cunning she is.¡± ¡°Enough, can¡¯t you shut up even while eating?¡± Tong Tiehu ckened his face. ¡°What nonsense are you talking about! Your grandfather just said today that we are not allowed to discuss her family¡¯s matters.¡± Tong Tiehu¡¯s wife, Qian Family, also threw a disapproving nce at Zhu Hongyun.


    Zhu Hongyun lowered her head, muttering in a low voice, ¡°I¡¯m also thinking of what¡¯s best for Sang, his marriage should not be taken lightly.¡±


    ¡°Enough, eat your food.¡± Tong Eng red at her.


    At this, Zhu Hongyunpletely stopped talking.


    With her silence, the Tong Family started to eat their meal.


    The parents of Tong Sang went with Tong Dng to manage the family¡¯s shop in town, so at this time only Tong Tiehu, Qian Family, Zhu Hongyun, Tong Eng, and Tong Sang were present at the Tong family residence.


    The Tong Family was the wealthiest family in the vige. Every meal included white flour, and every meal also had meat.


    Zhu Hongyun, Tong Eng and Qian Family¡¯s chopsticks all pointed towards the dish of Fried Pork, while Tong Tiehu and Tong Sang reached for the dish of scallion tofu.


    Tong Sang was carefully appreciating the taste of the tofu, a sh of surprise in his eyes.


    Presenting two different types of fresh food within a few days was surprising.


    Tong Tiehu swallowed the tofu in his mouth, nodded his head, and praised, ¡°Xiaomai¡¯s cooking skills are good.¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡± Tong Sang agreed wholeheartedly.


    Seeing this, Zhu Hongyun couldn¡¯t help but say, ¡°Grandpa, being skillful is one thing, but character is another. At such a young age, she¡¯s already so ruthless. Which family would dare to have such a girl?¡±


    At these words, Tong Tiehu red at her and said, ¡°What does her behavior have to do with you?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m just reminding Sang, this meddler would surely stir up trouble every day if any family married her.¡± Zhu Hongyun chewed on her pork while belittling Qiao Xiaomai, ¡°Our family¡¯s life is peaceful, we should keep away from such people.¡±


    ¡°Moreover, considering her mother, who knows¡­¡±


    ¡°Shut up!¡± Tong Tiehu mmed down his chopsticks with a stern expression, ¡°I said at noon that I didn¡¯t want to hear discussions about her family, did you take my words as wind passing by your ears? If you don¡¯t want to eat, go to your room!¡±


    ¡°Eng, control your wife, or else she¡¯s no different than those gossipy women in the vige!¡±

 Chapter 47 - 47 Dispute

    Chapter 47: Dispute


    Trantor: 549690339


    Gossipy woman.


    The term made Zhu Hongyun¡¯s face turn red, ¡°Grandfather, I am your granddaughter ¨C in ¨Cw!¡±


    ¡°What of being a granddaughter-inw? Can you treat my words as if they are nonsense?!¡± Tong Tiehu spoke unabashedly, his face tightly drawn, ¡°Cut your connections with the Changfu household! Look at what you¡¯ve learned from them!¡±


    ¡°Grandfather¡­¡± Tong Eng saw tears welling up in Zhu Hongyun¡¯s eyes and couldn¡¯t help pleading for her, ¡°Hongyun was speaking the truth, whether it¡¯s about filial piety or elopement, the Qiao Family was originally¡­¡±


    ¡°Shut up!¡± Tong Tiehu immediately directed his anger at him, ¡°A grown man, gossiping like a woman, it¡¯s disgraceful! Additionally, blindly following the crowd without knowing the full story, did a pig eat your brain?!¡±


    Tong Eng¡±¡­¡±


    Angry, he threw down the chopsticks and the steamed bun in his hand onto the table and abruptly stood up, ¡°I¡¯m not eating anymore.¡±


    To stand up for the Qiao Family, who had be the vige¡¯s joke, and bully him, his own grandson, he¡¯s so mad he could die!


    Tong Tiehu stared at the half-eaten steamed bun, his rage ring up even more, ¡°Sang, take your second brother back to his room! Tomorrow, supervise him and his wife as they weed the wheat field. From tomorrow until the wheat harvest ends, they¡¯re not allowed to ck off!¡±


    Upon hearing these words, Tong Eng, whose face was still clouded by anger, was suddenly stunned. He cried out in disbelief, ¡°Grandfather!¡±


    Mrs. Qian looked at Tong Tiehu and tried to persuade him, ¡°My husband, we have dayborers to work ournd, there¡¯s no need for Eng to do it.¡±


    Not only did the Tong Family own a vinegar shop in the town, but they also had over a hundred acres of farnd. It made them smallndlords.


    With so much farnd, the Tong Family couldn¡¯t manage it all on their own, hence they hired people to work the fields.


    However, over the recent years, the Tong Family had be well off. So now, the Tong Family members only managed the hired workers, not entering the fields themselves.


    But Tong Eng had beenzy since childhood, and had almost never worked in the fields.


    Without having worked hard in the fields and broken the sweat, he naturally did not value the food. Moreover, since he had sided with Zhu Hongyun, Tong Tiehu had established this disciplinary measure.


    ¡°Such a big man, loafing around all day, even participating in womanly gossip. If he isn¡¯t corrected, who knows what he¡¯ll turn into! No need to convince me, I¡¯ve made up my mind. Sang, take your brother back to his room.¡±


    Tong Sang stood up, extended his long arm, grabbed Tong Eng¡¯s shoulder, and advised him, ¡°Second Brother, go back to your room first, Grandfather is in a rage.¡±


    Hearing this, Tong Eng, who initially wanted to resist, grunted harshly and with a sullen face, went back to his room.


    Seeing this, Zhu Hongyun¡¯s teary eyes finally overflowed, she grabbed a steamed bun, and quickly followed him.


    Tong Tiehu watched the couple¡¯s retreating figures, and instructed Tong Sang, ¡°First thing tomorrow morning, watch them as they work in the field. Show no mercy.¡±


    Tong Sang nodded in agreement.


    ¡°Alright, sit down and continue eating.¡± Tong Tiehu beckoned him, ¡°The tofu that Xiaomai made tastes pretty good, suitable for someone my age.¡±


    Soft and vorful.


    Seeing this, Mrs. Qian voiced her displeasure, ¡°She gave so many things, obviously trying to curry favor with our family, hoping totch onto us. That whole family of hers is full of degenerates. Sang, stay away from them in the future.¡±


    She didn¡¯t dare to say these words directly to Tong Tiehu, so she only warned Tong Sang.


    Tong Sang agreed, picked up his chopsticks, and reached for the tofu again.


    Tong Tiehu nced at Mrs. Qian and looked at Tong Sang, ¡°Tomorrow afternoon, go up the mountain to check if there¡¯s any game in the traps. If there is, take it to the town to sell.¡±


    ¡°Alright.¡± Tong Sang nodded..

 Chapter 48 - 48: Spiritual Spring

    Chapter 48: Spiritual Spring


    Trantor: 549690339


    Qiao Xiaomai had no idea about the dispute that had arisen in the Tong Family because of her. She was preparing tofu by the dim light of the kitchen oilmp, and by the time Qiao Changshun returned with a limp, she had already pressed the stone mill again.


    By then, the yellow soybean and pig¡¯s foot soup was ready. Qiao Xiaomai carried the pottery jar back into the kitchen, made some cold tofu, and the three family members began to eat dinner around the small dining table.


    ¡°Dad, the folks from the old courtyard didn¡¯t give you a hard time, did they?¡± Qiao Xiaomai asked, while savoring the fragrant pig¡¯s foot soup.


    Qiao Changshun shook his head, ¡°No trouble, your grandfather simply said to distribute some tofu to your third and fourth uncles¡¯ families tomorrow.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai let out a breath of relief after hearing this.


    ¡°Later, we¡¯ll send some to Aunt Gun, and the rest will be delivered to the town tomorrow.¡±


    ¡°Alright.¡± Qiao Changshun agreed.


    Then, Qiao Xiaomai and Qiao Changshun discussed some trivial matters to take care ofter. After dinner and when the tofu in the bamboo basket was ready, they cleaned up the kitchen, and the three of them retired to their rooms for the night.


    Now it was March, and the tofu would be fine sitting out overnight. Xiaomai had eaten plenty for dinner and did not add more to the meal, but she still instinctively delved into her consciousness, checking the contents of her space.


    Whether for eating or using, each item kept in this space-time was precious. If an item was gone, it would bepletely gone and could not be reproduced.


    ¡°Eh?¡± She uttered in surprise.


    In the middle of space, a spring the size of a fist suddenly appeared on the grass.


    Fresh clear water was gushing from the spring, flowing about a meter away onto the grass, which automatically depressed to form a small water pit.


    Qiao Xiaomai stared at the small water pit for a while, her lovely peach-blossom eyes suddenly widened. Her space originally only had storage capacity, but now a spring had sprung, could it have upgraded from a storage space to a spiritual spring space?!


    The thought of this possibility made her heart pound.


    A spiritual spring space!


    The legendary spiritual spring space!


    Her eyes gleaming, she promptly filled a thermos cup with the water.


    Hiding under her nkets, using the light of a shlight, she examined the water in the thermos cup ¡ª it was crystal clear. She leaned over and carefully took a sip.


    Blurring her eyes, a look of confusion appeared on her face.


    The taste was strikingly simr to well water at home, and it was at a striking contrast to the legendary sweet, like the Immortal Dew and the spiritual spring water which could cure all diseases.


    She pursed her lips and took another big gulp, the taste was same as before ¨C not at all ¡°spiritual¡±.


    > (<sup>y</sup> v <) <sub>r</sub>


    She then emptied the entire thermos cup of spring water.


    While the taste was simr to well water, it was a product of her space and she assumed it couldn¡¯t harm her.


    After finished drinking the water, Qiao stretched (fix me!) Xiaomai stared at the small water pit for a while, her mind full of thoughts, but due to the vigorous activities during the day, she quickly sumbed to her fatigue and fell asleep deeply.


    That night, she had to get up twice to use the restroom.


    That¡¯s the consequence of drinking too much water before sleep.


    However, though she woke up twice during the night, Qiao Xiaomai was in good spirits. She assigned tasks to Qiao Changshun and Qiao Dami. Then she packed up the tofu she madest night in a carry basket, and headed towards the town.


    It wasn¡¯t the time for wheat harvesting yet, so there wasn¡¯t much work in the fields. Many people went to town looking for work, and some were going to the town to buy things, so there were still many people on the road.


    However, thanks to Tong Tiehu¡¯s words yesterday, the people no longer shot her looks like they used to.


    This made Qiao Xiaomai feel much morefortable. In her heart, she made a mental note of Tong Tiehu¡¯s kindness. If given an opportunity, she would repay this favor..

 Chapter 49 - 49 Selling Tofu

    Chapter 49: Selling Tofu


    Trantor: 549690339


    Upon reaching the town, Qiao Xiaomai headed straight towards The Extreme Taste Residence.


    It was morning and The Extreme Taste Residence had just opened. Shopkeeper He was checking the ount books in the backyard. Upon hearing that she had arrived, he put down his pen, stood up, and came to the door.


    Seeing that Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s bamboo basket was full, he asked with a beaming smile, ¡°Miss Qiao, what good items have you brought this time?¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai also returned his smile, ¡°It seems that the cold jelly noodles and fried noodle strips are selling well.¡±


    ¡°Rather average,¡± Shopkeeper He responded, not divulging too much.


    However, his smile broadened even more, not just because they were selling well, but because they were selling extremely well.


    Following Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s suggestion, he provided each customer with a small dish of cold jelly noodles or fried noodle strips to try. These dishes were soft and fragrant, suitable for both young and old. After tasting, almost all customers asked for the price and considering its affordability, a majority of them ced an order.


    Those who tasted the cold jelly noodles and fried noodle strips spread word around, attracting more customers.


    Although it had only been two days, a stall selling fried cold jelly noodles and noodle strips had already been set up at the front of the Extreme Taste Residence. Precisely yesterday, they¡¯d sold a thousand meals in a single day.


    Considering that Bailu Town only had a poption of over 30,000, the sales ratio wasmendable!


    Shopkeeper He believed that in half a month, just the sales from The Extreme Taste Residence in Bailu Town would allow him to earn back the fifty taels he¡¯d given to Qiao Xiaomai.


    The current stock of sweet potatoes was dwindling and would notst for long. However, once a new crop was harvested in autumn, the cold jelly noodles and fried noodle strips would surely be distributed throughout Qi Country via the Extreme Taste Residences across thend.


    Then, it would be a time of rolling wealth!


    Moreover, there were more ways to prepare cold jelly noodles and noodle strips than just frying them. Especially the fried noodle strips, they were excellent as a stuffing for steamed buns or aponent for soups!


    Once he mastered this skill, he would earn quite a sum even if he only sold cold jelly noodles and noodle strips!


    Transforming ubiquitous sweet potatoes into such delicacies, Shopkeeper He looked at Qiao Xiaomai with increased benevolence.


    ¡°Miss Qiao, what have you brought this time?¡±


    ¡°Tofu.¡± Seeing Shopkeeper He¡¯s unabashedly ted face, Qiao Xiaomai put down her bamboo basket and took out a piece of tofu.


    ¡°You can serve it cold, but it¡¯s mostly fried or added to soups. You can taste it first.¡±


    A surprised look appeared on Shopkeeper He¡¯s face. Yet another unheard-of delicacy!


    Giving a sweeping nce over Qiao Xiaomai in her coarse hemp dress, he refocused his attention on this lower-ss young girl.


    ¡°Alright, 1 will have someone prepare it.¡± He summoned a waiter and instructed him to send the tofu to the kitchen.


    The procedure was the same asst time. After a short wait, the waiter served a dish of fried tofu.


    The original white tofu had turned golden brown, with vivid green scallions as a garnish. It was appealing and emitted a strong fragrance.


    Shopkeeper He took a deep breath of the aroma. He picked up a piece with his chopsticks, ced it in his mouth, and chewed it slowly.


    Even though the taste couldn¡¯tpete with the cold jelly noodles and fried noodle strips, it was quite delicious.


    It was delicate but also slightly resilient. After enjoying three pieces, Shopkeeper He put down his chopsticks and said, ¡°Miss Qiao, it tastes good¡­ but it¡¯s not as good as the cold jelly noodles and fried noodle strips.¡±


    A dimple appeared on Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s face as she smiled, ¡°That¡¯s because you prefer the taste of cold jelly noodles and fried noodle strips, right?¡±


    Shopkeeper He stroked his beard but didn¡¯t confirm her remark. He just asked, ¡°Are you also selling the recipe this time?¡±


    ¡°No, I¡¯m only selling tofu.¡± Qiao Xiaomai shook her head.


    Selling a recipe was too much of a loss. Tofu could be used to extend into a variety of soy products. She intended to umte a substantial fortune through this and pull the Qiao Family from poverty to affluence..

 Chapter 50 - 50: Bargaining

    Chapter 50: Bargaining


    Trantor: 549690339


    Upon hearing that, Shopkeeper He concealed his disappointment and asked, ¡°How do you n to sell this tofu?¡±


    ¡°Six wen per catty.¡± Qiao Xiaomai stated the number she had already nned in her mind.


    A catty of soybeans is three wen, which can make about three catties of tofu. Three catties of tofu costs eighteen wen. Aside from the cost of soybeans and firewood, vinegar, andbor, Qiao Xiaomai believed that her quoted price was very fair.


    ¡°This price is a bit high. A serving of stir-fried bean jelly only cost five wen.¡± He Zhanggui lost his smile and took on a serious posture. He then took out his abacus to calcte for Qiao Xiaomai, ¡°A catty of live chicken only costs seven or eight wen, and your tofu is almost the same price as meat. If I have to fry it or make a soup, plus the cost of various seasonings andbor, a te of tofu alone will have to be sold for at least twelve wen.¡±


    ¡°Miss Qiao, in my restaurant, a serving of ordinary meat only costs less than twenty wen. Your tofu is catching up with the price of meat.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s called tofu and it¡¯s made from beans, right? Soybeans? A catty of soybeans only costs three wen. With a lot of water added, a catty of soybeans can probably make five or six catties of tofu. If we count six catties, it would be thirty-six wen.¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s round that up to forty wen. Miss Qiao, you¡¯re turning three wen into forty wen. That¡¯s outrageous profit!¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai,¡±¡­¡±


    This shopkeeper really likes to exaggerate the numbers!


    She cleared her throat and began her own calction, ¡°Shopkeeper He, a catty of soybeans can only make three catties of tofu. I earn eighteen wen from three wen, but I have to deduct the essential costs for making tofu. I have to go up the mountain to collect firewood. 1 have to do a lot of work, and finally, I have to carry a basket on my back for half an hour to deliver it to you.¡±


    ¡°My father isme, my younger brother is only seven years old, and I¡¯m the backbone of my family. 1 do almost all of these tasks, deduct all the costs andbor, what I actually earn is just a few wen.¡±


    ¡°We don¡¯t have any farnd at home and we only rely on a few wen for living. Times are really tough for us, this price is truly the lowest I can offer.¡±


    ¡°Shopkeeper He, considering that we will have regr cooperation in the future, and that I am a honest person, let¡¯s settle for this price.¡±


    He Zhanggui,¡±¡­¡±


    As a merchant, haggling over price is his habit.


    However, just likest time, this youngdy greatly reduced his inted number and even yed the sympathy card.


    Especially thatst line indirectly questioning his honesty.


    This reaction was nothing like the simple-minded girls from the countryside.


    ¡°Alright, let¡¯s go by your price,¡± He Zhanggui stroked his beard and nodded his agreement.


    ¡°But once the tofu is sold to me, you can¡¯t sell it to others.¡±


    ¡°That won¡¯t do, 1 also n to do business elsewhere in the vige.¡± Qiao Xiaomai shook her head in refusal.


    ¡°Why bother with all that trouble? We can take all of your tofu. It would be much faster than selling it in small amounts.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai considered this, then nodded, ¡°That can work, but since only your restaurant will have it, then 1 need to raise the price.¡±


    If only his restaurant has tofu, he will definitely sell it at a high price. Considering this, she felt somewhat at a loss.


    Originally, she nned to sell some tofu in the vige every day, letting vigers taste something new, improving her reputation and changing the vigers¡¯ impression of her family.


    Since his restaurant wants to monopolize the supply, she won¡¯t be able to improve her reputation. He has topensate for this loss.


    He Zhanggui, ¡°¡­how much do you n to increase?¡±

 Chapter 51 - 51 Raise the Price

    Chapter 51: Raise the Price


    Trantor: 549690339


    Qiao Xiaomai gave it serious thought and said, ¡°Well¡­ let¡¯s increase the price to ten copper coins per pound.¡±


    Given the limited quantity and Jingwei Ju¡¯s intention to monopolize the supply, it is inevitable that ordinary people will not be able to enjoy this delicious tofu for the time being.


    So, let¡¯s take the high-end route for now.


    When the quantity produced increases, the price can be lowered again.


    With this in mind, Qiao Xiaomai extended his ten fingers towards Shopkeeper He, ¡°Ten copper coins per pound.¡±


    Shopkeeper He,¡±¡­¡±


    The price has increased by four cash all at once, that¡¯s enough for a serving of cold stirred ss noodles. Who just imed to be an honest man?


    Seeing Shopkeeper He¡¯s speechless, Qiao Xiaomai exined, ¡°Anyway, 1 can only produce so much every day. You can just sell to those wealthy people.¡±


    Bailu Town was originally just a field, but twenty years ago, Emperor¡¯s tutor, Zhang Wenjian, had grown tired of the hustle and bustle of the Imperial City. Therefore, the Emperor took out the map of Daqi to choose a peaceful ce for him to retire.


    After much consideration, Bailu Town was chosen to be the ce.


    When Bailu Academy was established, the Emperor himself advertised it, attracting schrs from all over Daqi toe here.


    Since the schrs were far away from their homes, the wealthy among them boughtnd and built houses in Bailu Town, sending servants to take care of their sons who were studying there.


    Thus, Bailu Town, which was originally a field, was established in this way. After twenty years of development, it has grown to the scale of a county town.


    Due to the presence of students from Bailu Academy, there are many wealthy people in the town, as Qiao Xiaomai had mentioned.


    Shopkeeper He said, ¡°Even the rich are not fools. The soybeans are so cheap, if we sell a serving of tofu for over twenty coins, who would buy it?¡±


    ¡°You can package it, like in the case of the Jadeite Soup. Use this tofu along with some green vegetables to cook the soup. As long as it tastes good, people would be willing to buy it, even if you charge thirty coins.¡± To persuade Shopkeeper He, Qiao Xiaomai gave him a recipe.


    Shopkeeper He,


    He twitched the corners of his mouth, looking at Qiao Xiaomai with even more surprise in his eyes.


    ¡°Shall we settle it like this?¡± Qiao Xiaomai looked at Shopkeeper He with her sparkling eyes, her small face full of expectation.


    Shopkeeper He stroked his beard, hesitated for a moment, then nodded, ¡°Alright.¡±


    As Qiao Xiaomai said, what is rare is valuable. Moreover, the tofu tastes good, and he is confident that it can be sold after packaging.


    ¡°Let¡¯s write down an agreement.¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s not do that for now. 1 can¡¯t read.¡± Qiao Xiaomai shook her head, ¡°From tomorrow, 1 will bring it to you every morning.¡±


    Shopkeeper He, ¡°¡­Are you worried 1¡¯11 write nonsense and trick you?¡±


    ¡°No.¡± Qiao Xiaomai immediately exined her family¡¯s situation. For them, making tofu was too slow with their small millstone. She couldn¡¯t guarantee how much they could make each day.


    The production tool wasn¡¯t efficient enough, and if people from the old courtyarde to make trouble, that would make it even more uncertain how much they could make each day.


    So, it would be better to deliver as much as they can produce each day.


    After listening to her exnation, the eyes of Shopkeeper He rolled a bit and he suggested, ¡°How about you tell me a few more recipes and I¡¯ll give you a big millstone as a reward?¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai was taken aback, not expecting Shopkeeper He to say such a thing.


    Her ck eyes spun, and she declined, ¡°But my dad is crippled, and my family doesn¡¯t have a donkey. We can¡¯t push the big millstone.¡±


    Shopkeeper He,¡±¡­ Then I¡¯ll lend you a donkey for the time being.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai fluttered her long eyshes, somewhat puzzled, ¡°Shopkeeper, what is rare is precious. If there is too much tofu, it won¡¯t fetch a high price.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll deliver it to Jingwei Ju nearby.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Qiao Xiaomai responded with an ¡°Oh¡±, nodding, ¡°Alright, thank you, Shopkeeper He..¡±

 Chapter 52 - 52: The Shadow Area is Too Large

    Chapter 52: The Shadow Area is Too Large


    Trantor: 549690339


    In the end, Qiao Xiaomai did not sign the contract, and instead got a donkey, a board cart, and arge millstone sat on the cart.


    Since Qiao Xiaomai didn¡¯t know how to drive a donkey cart, Shopkeeper He had a waiter apany her back to Anping Vige.


    To allow Qiao Xiaomai to focus on tofu making, Shopkeeper He said that he would send someone to collect the tofu every day so she wouldn¡¯t have to deliver it to the town.


    Touched by such consideration, Qiao Xiaomai naturally expressed her gratitude, and told them about several dishes made with tofu.


    By the time they returned to Anping Vige it was nearly noon. Qiao Xiaomai enthusiastically invited the waiter to stay for lunch, but he needed to return to the shop. Out of gratitude, she gifted him a bag of pastries she had just bought.


    After bidding the waiter farewell and closing the courtyard door, Qiao Changshun finally asked, having contained his confusion for a while, ¡°Xiaomai, what¡¯s going on?¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai briefly exined, ¡°In order for us to make more tofu, Shopkeeper He gifted us a millstone and loaned us a donkey.¡±


    ¡°Wow! Now we have a donkey!¡± Qiao Dami pped her hands and circled the donkey cart several times. Her face beamed with excitement as she finally hopped onto the cart and bounced a few times.


    These past few days, not only had they been eating well, but they now also had a donkey cart. Her sister was truly amazing!


    Unlike Qiao Dami, Qiao Changshun did not share in the excitement, but was rather frowning, ¡°Xiaomai, that Shopkeeper He is so generous. Could there be a trap?¡±


    As he spoke, he limped around the donkey cart. The cart was used for transporting goods from the shop, hence slightly decrepit, but the donkey seemed in fine fettle, robust and energetic.


    ¡°Does this donkey have any diseases?¡± he voiced his suspicions.


    If the donkey is sick ¨C and dies ¨C he would have to pay silver.


    Qiao Xiaomai¡±¡­¡±


    ¡°Dad, don¡¯t worry, Shopkeeper He wouldn¡¯t swindle us for a donkey. Besides, even if he wanted to, he couldn¡¯t. 1 didn¡¯t leave any fingerprints. If there¡¯s really something wrong with the donkey, we just deny it,¡± sheforted.


    Upon hearing her words, Qiao Changshun felt a little bit embarrassed, rubbing his hands together, ¡°I¡¯m poor, so I¡¯m afraid.¡±


    Thest time something simr to a pie falling from the sky happened was the fifty taels silver incident, which resulted in him breaking his leg and Luhe running away.


    He had a big shadow in his heart about this kind of thing.


    His first response was not joy, but horror.


    Qiao Xiaomai, unaware of Qiao Changshun¡¯s inner thoughts, reassured, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, things are going to get better and better for our family!¡±


    As she spoke, she picked up the basket she had left in the kitchen and called Dami over, ¡°I bought a lot of food today. Look, this is sugar cane, it¡¯s so sweet and delicious when added to soy milk or tofu pudding.¡±


    ¡°I want to try!¡± Dami quickly jumped off the cart.


    Qiao Xiaomai handed the sugar cane wrapped in parchment paper to him, ¡°Pour it into a bowl. There are a few steamed buns 1 made this morning. It¡¯s delicious when you eat it with the buns.¡±


    Dami crisply agreed, and took the sugar cane into the kitchen.


    Qiao Xiaomai then brought out the melon seeds, pork bones, flour, and eggs she bought. She also bought two pieces of silk cloth.


    Everyone in the vige wore linen, but the linen here was not as light and soft as it was in the future. If the linen here was a bit finer, it was okay. But if it was roughly made, it was almost like a hemp rope, very ufortable to wear.


    Previously, the Qiao Family could only afford to wear the cheapest type of linen. Later, when they found silver, Luhe bought some finer linen for everyone.


    This type of cloth was what people in the vigemonly wore.


    But for Qiao Xiaomai, even the finer linen was very ufortable. Her skin, ustomed to various soft fabrics, couldn¡¯t tolerate it.


    So she specifically bought the silk cloth, nning to wear it as undergarments..

 Chapter 53 - 53 Buying Soybeans

    Chapter 53: Buying Soybeans


    Trantor: 549690339


    Qiao Changsun saw the two pieces of silk fabric and immediately felt a little heartache, ¡°Why did you buy these?¡±


    ¡°Of course they are for wearing.¡± Qiao Xiaomai put the groceries in the kitchen and carried the two pieces of silk fabric back to her room. ¡°Linen clothes chafe the skin, and the silk fabric is for wearing inside. Dad, stop worrying about money, our family now makes money every day.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s noon now, time to prepare lunch. If you have nothing to do, you can start the fire.¡±


    Qiao Changsun sighed and ceased persuading Qiao Xiaomai.


    Lately, Qiao Xiaomai had been changing rapidly,ing up with all sorts of ideas, and she was earning all the money.


    ¡°Let Dami start the fire. I¡¯ll go cut some fresh grass to feed the donkey.¡± Their home was on the west side, close to Rooster Mountain. It was springtime and wild grass was all over the ce.


    ¡°Go ahead, go ahead.¡± Qiao Xiaomai waved her hand.


    She was just worried that the donkey might be sick, but now she had started showing concern for it. Farmers indeed care deeply about their livestock.


    Qiao Xiaomai put things away and went into the kitchen to make lunch.


    She made a big bone soup and stir-fried tofu. She reheated the steamed buns from the morning and lunch was ready.


    Simple yet delicious.


    After lunch, Qiao Changsun fed the donkey and then tidied up the cluttered storage shed at home. The millstone was too heavy. He went next door to ask Aunt Gun for help.


    Aunt Gun¡¯s real name is Yang Gun. Her husband, Lin Dacheng, was a genuine and honest man. When he saw the donkey and the millstone, his eyes lit up and he eagerly inquired about what had happened.


    After hearing Qiao Changsun¡¯s exnation, he patted Qiao Changsun on the shoulder and said, ¡°Changsun, work hard, your family¡¯s good days areing.¡±


    Yang Gun joined the conversation, ¡°Isn¡¯t that the truth? With Xiaomai¡¯s diligence, it won¡¯t be long before your family bes one of the richest in the vige.¡±


    Among the over five thousand people in Anping Vige, only the Tong Family who sold vinegar and the Jiang Family who sold pork did business. Now Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s family became the third one to start a business, and they were selling tofu, a fresh food product.


    Their wealth would gradually increase!


    Qiao Xiaomai smiled and nodded, not responding to Aunt Gun¡¯s words. Instead, she asked, ¡°Aunt, making tofu needs soybeans. How many soybeans do you have left? I want to buy.¡±


    ¡°There are still about thirty to forty kilograms left.¡± Yang Gun replied.


    The taxes only required Xiaomi and wheat, not soybeans. So, the vigers did not nt too many, with each family growing several tens of kilograms for cooking or making soybean paste.


    ¡°Since you want to buy, I will sell all to you. After the wheat is harvested, we can continue to nt soybeans. We don¡¯t need them for now.¡± Yang Gun said.


    ¡°Good!¡± Qiao Xiaomai nodded with a smile.


    Qiao Xiaomai bought all thirty-eight kilograms of soybeans from Yang Gun¡¯s family at a price of three pennies per kilogram. She had Qiao Changsun clear up the shed and tried to use the donkey to pull the millstone.


    She then went up the mountain to gather firewood.


    This time she brought a hemp rope with the n to gather more. Without natural gas or electricity, cooking and boiling water had to rely on firewood. Because they needed to make tofu at home, they needed to collect more firewood.


    Rooster Mountain wasn¡¯t tall, only over three hundred meters high. Qiao Xiaomai climbed up along the path, scanning her surroundings in search of dry branches.


    She also had a basket on her back, picking up wood ear mushrooms whenever she encountered them.


    Of course, she also saw pheasants and rabbits. Although Rooster Mountain wasn¡¯t high, it was home to quite a few wild animals.


    However, these little creatures were very alert. Any slight disturbances from Qiao Xiaomai would startle them, and she could only see their retreating backs.


    This caused Qiao Xiaomai a bit of regret.


    After almost two hours on the mountain, the sun was about to set. She tied up the collected firewood with the hemp rope, then with one hand dragging them, she leisurely made her way down the mountain..

 Chapter 54 - 54: Followed by a Person

    Chapter 54: Followed by a Person


    Trantor: 549690339


    Not long after Qiao Xiaomai descended the mountain, Child Third reappeared from behind arge tree.


    His gaze settled on therge pile of firewood, his expressionplex.


    Qiao Xiaomai had wandered on the mountain for nearly two hours, gathering dried wood in both thick and thin sizes. Thick pieces were asrge as an arm, like a small tree, the thinnest about the size of a thumb. All this together was a heap of firewood taller than her.


    By Child Third¡¯s estimation, the pile of firewood must have weighed close to a hundred jin.


    Yet Qiao Xiaomai, grabbing the hemp rope with one hand, walked down the path with ease. From time to time, she would even hop joyfully as though she was in a good mood.


    It was evident that carrying thirty-four copper coins had tired her out during theirst encounter. How had she suddenly be so strong now?


    And she even hopped¡­


    With a wild chicken in hand, Child Third walked towards his home with aplicated expression in the twilight hour.


    Unbeknownst to Qiao Xiaomai, there was a person trailing behind her. Now that there was a start to her small business, whether it be food or a ce to stay, she could just about manage. This allowed her previous feelings of frustration from just having time-traveled to dissipate. Therefore, when a butterfly flew by in her line of sight, she could not resist bounding forward to catch it.


    But as they neared the vige, the merriment on her face vanished. She acted as though it was challenging work, pulling the rope with force and trying hard toe home, her face turning red from exertion.


    Child Third


    After a moment¡¯s hesitation, he hid behind a tree.


    Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s abrupt change of demeanor suggested that she didn¡¯t want others to know how strong she was.


    He decided it was best not to show himself yet.


    Only after Qiao Xiaomai and therge bundle of firewood disappeared from sight did he proceeded on his way home.


    Qiao Xiaomai was obliviously followed by someone who saw her whole act y out. She strained herself, pulling therge bundle of dried wood home, sweat dotting her forehead.


    Upon seeing this, Qiao Changshun was heartbroken, ¡°Why did you pick up so much? It¡¯s too heavy,e and rest.¡±


    Qiao Dami promptly brought a bowl of well water to her, ¡°Sister, drink some water!¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai gratefully took the bowl, draining the drink in one swig. Only then did she speak, ¡°We use a lot of wood for making soy milk every day. If 1 collect more, we won¡¯t have to go up the mountain for several days.¡±


    At her words, a look of shame washed over Qiao Changshun¡¯s face, ¡°It¡¯s all because I¡¯m of no help.¡±


    When he was not crippled, there was never a shortage of firewood at home. The courtyard was always piled with neatly chopped wood. But since he broke his leg, he became incapable of doingborious chores, barely more useful than a wastrel.


    Qiao Xiaomai¡±¡­¡±


    She wasn¡¯t tired at all, but yet he felt pitiful!


    Touching her nose, sheforted him, ¡°It¡¯s fine, I am not tired. Rest assured, things at our house are going to get better.¡±


    ¡°These are all strenuous tasks, not fit for you, a young girl¡­¡± As Qiao Changshun started to sigh, he added, ¡°Aigh, your hands are all covered in callouses. What if it impedes your marriage prospects?¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai¡±¡­¡±


    Her lips twitched, noticing the stark disparity between her modern mentality and the thinking of the ancient world inhabitants. The conversation had somehow pivoted.


    ¡°Our home is improving. Maybe in a few days, 1 can invite a matchmaker toe over?¡± he continued.


    Qiao Xiaomai, ¡°¡­wait until our business stabilizes before we discuss this.¡±


    In order to stop Qiao Changshun from pursuing his line of thought, she deftly changed the topic, ¡°Is dinner ready?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s ready, millet porridge, cold mixed tofu, steamed buns, and leftover bone soup from noon.¡± Qiao Changshun immediately replied.


    ¡°Alright then, let¡¯s have dinner.¡± Qiao Xiaomai headed towards the kitchen.


    Once she was not facing Qiao Changshun, her face instantly deted.


    Marriage?


    Ha, ha..

 Chapter 55 - 55: Her Secret

    Chapter 55: Her Secret


    Trantor: 549690339


    After dinner, Qiao Xiaomai soaked ten pounds of soybeans, then casually cleaned up before heading back to her room to sleep.


    In front of Qiao Changshun and Qiao Dami, she didn¡¯t show any unusual behavior. However, once she was alone in her room, her little face was instantly covered by a frosty mask.


    Getting married?


    She pulled out a piece of hemp cloth, and from her space, she took out a Swiss Army Knife. She pulled out the small scissors from the knife and cut the hemp cloth into pieces with resentment.


    Gazing at the shredded hemp cloth, the frosty veil on her face started to slowly melt away.


    When she finished cutting the cloth, she emotionlessly put the knife and the pieces back into her space.


    Next moment, a bizarre smile suddenly spread across her face.


    ¡°I am the head of the household, my word is final, I don¡¯t want to get married, no one can force me.¡±


    After saying these words, the strange smile on her face disappeared instantly. She returned to her emotionless demeanor, blew out the oilmp, and quickly crawled into her nket.


    She sank her consciousness into her space, checked the items inside one by one, and finally set her sights on the small puddle in the middle.


    She filled a thermos cup halfway, drank it in one go, and then went to sleep.


    She had a good night¡¯s sleep, didn¡¯t use the bathroom, and when she woke up, it was already bright outside. She habitually took out her watch to check the time, then suddenly opened her eyes wide and sat up abruptly.


    Shopkeeper He was supposed to send someone today to collect tofu, and they would be here soon, but she was still in bed!


    She quickly dressed up, put on her shoes and rushed out of her room.


    Qiao Changshun was in the courtyard, sweeping with a big broom made of bamboo. Seeing here out, he said, ¡°You¡¯re awake?¡±


    ¡°I am!¡± Qiao Xiaomai nodded, running to the kitchen, ¡°Dad, stop sweeping, we need to grind the soy milk!¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t rush, I¡¯ve already done it, and cooked a pot in the kitchen. Just make tofu from it,¡± said Qiao Changshun.


    Qiao Xiaomai halted in her tracks, looking somewhat surprised, ¡°You¡¯ve finished grinding it all?¡±


    ¡°Yes,¡± replied Qiao Changshun nodding. Since they got a donkey and began their tofu business, he couldn¡¯t sleep half the night in excitement and got up at the first crow of the rooster.


    Both leading the donkey and grinding the soybeans took time, but he did it with joy.


    ¡°Why didn¡¯t you wake me up, Dad?¡±


    ¡°I can handle it on my own. You need your sleep. If theyeter, it¡¯s not urgent,¡± said Qiao Changshun,ughing cheerfully. The wrinkles on his face, simr to old tree bark, seemed to smooth out.


    Qiao Xiaomai was silent for a moment and, remembering Qiao Changshun¡¯s words fromst night, pursed her lips and said, ¡°Wake me up next time anyway.¡±


    Making tofu is tough. You have to get up very early to grind and cook the beans, and then make and press the tofu. It¡¯s a tiring process.


    Seeing that Qiao Changshun was about to argue, she cut in, ¡°You should rest more so you don¡¯t overwork your legs. If they start hurting, you¡¯ll have to take medicine.¡±


    Upon hearing the mention of medicine, Qiao Changshun backed down and just said, ¡°Alright.¡±


    Taking medicine costs money, and that¡¯s an expense they can¡¯t afford.


    Satisfied, Qiao Xiaomai moved into the kitchen to make tofu with vinegar.


    Once the tofu solidified, she went to call Qiao Dami for breakfast.


    Everyone had a bowl of fresh tofu pudding, then pressed more tofu and continued to cook the soy milk.


    When the servant from Shopkeeper He¡¯s ce arrived with a horse cart, they had just finished making thirty pounds of tofu.


    The person who came was the same servant from yesterday, Yuan Ding. He wasn¡¯t very tall, but he had a round face and was always smiling, which made him quite likable.


    Qiao Xiaomai called him Brother Yuan. In order to promote their tofu pudding, she specifically saved two bowls, ¡°Brother Yuan, try this. And take this bowl back to Shopkeeper He..¡±

 Chapter 56 - 56 She Earned this Money Without Regrets

    Chapter 56: She Earned this Money Without Regrets


    Trantor: 549690339


    ¡°What¡¯s this?¡± Yuan Ding asked in surprise, looking at the big rough ceramic bowl in Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s hand, curiosity evident on his round face.


    ¡°It¡¯s called tofu pudding. Do you want it sweet or savory? For sweet, we add cane sugar, and for savory, we add soybean paste,¡± Qiao Xiaomai exined. ¡°Both taste pretty good.¡±


    ¡°Add cane sugar,¡± Yuan Ding quickly replied.


    For him, a waiter, cane sugar was quite a preciousmodity, not to mention its sweet taste was much more appealing.


    Qiao Xiaomai immediately scooped a spoonful of cane sugar into the bowl, ¡°Go ahead, give it a try.¡±


    After giving his thanks, Yuan Ding took the bowl, stirred it a bit until the sugar dissolved, and then hesitantly tried a mouthful.


    His eyes widened in surprise. He looked at Qiao Xiaomai, nodding vigorously, ¡°Delicious!¡±


    It was richly vored with the fragrance of soy, very sweet, smooth, and delicate!


    Seeing his reaction, Qiao Xiaomai grinned and asked, ¡°So, Brother Yuan, you think we can make money selling this, don¡¯t you?¡±


    ¡°Absolutely!¡± Yuan Ding nodded again, more firmly this time.


    A wider smile spread across Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s face. ¡°Well then, let¡¯s head to town with Brother Yuanter and talk to Shopkeeper He about it.¡±


    ¡°Sure,¡± Yuan Ding agreed with a nod.


    And so, once the tofu was loaded onto the horse cart, Qiao Xiaomai and Qiao Dami climbed in as well. Of course, she still held another bowl of tofu pudding in her hands.


    The horse cart moved quite swiftly, albeit a bit bumpy. It was unavoidable. The roads at that time were all dirt tracks, and the wheels of horse carts didn¡¯t have tires for shock absorption. You just had to put up with it.


    Upon arriving at Jiweiju Restaurant, they entered the courtyard through the back door. Yuan Ding took off the wooden vat loaded with tofu, ¡°Miss Qiao, Dami, get off quickly. I¡¯ll go fetch Shopkeeper He.¡±


    ¡°Thank you, Brother Yuan.¡± Qiao Xiaomai delicately climbed down the horse cart, carefully cradling her bowl of tofu pudding, while Qiao Dami jumped down.


    Upon hearing that Qiao Xiaomai had arrived and brought tofu pudding with her, Shopkeeper He immediately stepped out, grinning from ear to ear, ¡°Miss Qiao,e on in.¡±


    As Qiao Xiaomai walked in, carrying the bowl, a smile also appeared on her face, ¡°Shopkeeper He, I¡¯m back again.¡±


    ¡°Wee, wee.¡± Shopkeeper He stepped aside, gesturing for Qiao Xiaomai to enter, while patting Qiao Dami¡¯s head affectionately and tossing him some melon seeds from the table.


    ¡°Thank you, Shopkeeper He,¡± Qiao Dami responded earnestly, then took his seat on a small bench and started to crack the melon seeds.


    Qiao Xiaomai handed the bowl to He Zhanggui, ¡°Give it a try. You can either put sugar or soybean paste.¡±


    Having already heard from Yuan Ding about the deliciousness of the tofu pudding, Shopkeeper He called over a waiter. He divided the bowl of tofu pudding into two, adding sugar to one half and soybean paste to the other.


    As the tofu pudding had cooled down, it didn¡¯t taste as good as when it was freshly made.


    However, this didn¡¯t affect its silky-smooth texture, which left Shopkeeper He spooning up everyst bit from both halves of the bowl.


    Afterwards, he wiped his mouth with a handkerchief andmented, ¡°Not bad.¡±


    ¡°Does it taste better than the tofu?¡± Qiao Xiaomai asked.


    Having only tasted three pieces of the stir-fried tofu yesterday, Shopkeeper He had now finished an entire bowl before speaking.


    Shopkeeper He cleared his throat slightly, ¡°1 suppose so. How much are you nning to sell it for?¡±


    ¡°For a bowl this size,¡± Qiao Xiaomai tapped therge ceramic bowl on the table, ¡°Ten wen per bowl.¡±


    Despite preparing himself for Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s potentially high price, Shopkeeper He still couldn¡¯t help but show a slight twitch in his facial expression, ¡°Miss Qiao, this is made from soybeans too, right?¡±


    ¡°But I¡¯m the only one who knows how to make it,¡± Qiao Xiaomai asserted, her clear, watery eyes unwavering.


    Why didn¡¯t Qiao Changshun curdle the soymilk into tofu after boiling it today?


    Because he simply didn¡¯t know how to!


    Scarcity makes a thing precious!


    She was merely taking advantage of the wealthy!


    After all, this wasn¡¯t a staple food. Ordinary folks wouldn¡¯t starve if they couldn¡¯t afford it.. She earned this money without the slightest bit of guilt!

 Chapter 57 - 57: So Much Money!

    Chapter 57: So Much Money!


    Trantor: 549690339


    Shopkeeper He


    He was truly speechless at this.


    But haggling was second nature to him, so he assumed a solemn tone, ¡°Miss Qiao, since I¡¯ve already gifted you therge grinding stone, the amount of tofu and bean curd you can make must have increased. Can¡¯t you produce more to let more people enjoy it?¡±


    If the quantity is up, the price can be lowered.


    ¡°No, even though I have the grinding stone, there are only three people in my family, and I¡¯m the only one who can do the work. 1 can¡¯t make much tofu and bean curd by myself.¡±


    ¡°Then you could consider selling the recipe.¡± Shopkeeper He suggested urgently.


    Upon hearing this, Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s smile intensified, ¡°How much are you willing to pay for it? Today¡¯s thirty kilos of tofu is three hundred wen. 1 can earn three hundred wen a day, which amounts to nine thousand wen a month.¡±


    ¡°A year¡¯s worth is one hundred and eight thousand wen, and a decade is a million. I n to do this my whole life, and pass this down. You know how much that amounts to in the end.¡±


    Shopkeeper He


    This girl is actually learning from him, magnifying the numbers!


    With a long sigh, he dismissed the idea of buying the recipe, ¡°Alright, we¡¯ll stick with the price you suggested.¡±


    No matter how high the price Qiao Xiaomai quoted, he could always sell out her entire production.


    Upon hearing this, the smile on Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s face grew more sincere, and a pair of adorable dimples appeared at the corners of her mouth. ¡°1 knew you¡¯re a straight-shooter, Shopkeeper!¡±


    Shopkeeper He¡¯s mouth twitched, ignoring herpliment, he asked, ¡°How much bean curd can you make every day?¡±


    ¡°Hmm¡­ With suchrge pots, let¡¯s say two pots.¡± Qiao Xiaomai gestured a size about two feet high,¡±How many bowls it would be exactly, we can measure when I bring it over.¡±


    ¡°No need, whatever you say will be fine, 1 trust you.¡± Shopkeeper He said.


    ¡°Shopkeeper, you¡¯re very honest. Trust me, I¡¯m just as straightforward.¡± Qiao Xiaomaiughed.


    Shopkeeper He also smiled, a very sincere fake smile, ¡°Then it¡¯s settled.¡±


    ¡°If there¡¯s nothing else, Dami and 1 will take our leave.¡± Having concluded the business, Qiao Xiaomai prepared to leave.


    The payment for the tofu, three hundred wen, was already given to her when Yuan Ding was in Anping Vige.


    ¡°Take care, miss.¡± Shopkeeper He dispatched them unenthusiastically.


    Qiao Xiaomai responded cheerfully, then beckoned to Qiao Dami. The siblings left the restaurant.


    ¡°Sister, have some sunflower seeds.¡± Qiao Dami said, before opening his hand. He had not eaten the sunflower seeds he¡¯d been shelling, but had held them all in his palms.


    ¡°You eat them. We¡¯re going shopping now.¡± Qiao Xiaomai patted his little head.


    She needed to buy soybeans and pots for storing the bean curd. Also, making tofu had left a lot of leftover soybean dregs. Qiao Changshun had suggested they raise some chickens, which would not only consume the dregs, but also provide eggs and meat.


    With the shopping list in mind, Qiao Xiaomai rented a bullock cart from the town gate. They went from shop to shop, purchasing the items on their list. By the time they were done, it was almost noon, and they hastily hitched a ride home.


    When they arrived home, they paid the fare and unloaded their purchases.


    She bought four pots, ten chicks, one hundred kilos of soybeans, arge bathtub, and an iron pot.


    She hadn¡¯t taken a bath since crossing over to this world. She would have preferred a shower to a bathtub, but there was no option for that here.


    ¡°Why did you buy another pot?¡± Qiao Changshun asked.


    ¡°Specifically for boiling soy milk.¡± She used to use the pot for cooking rice to boil soy milk, which messed up their breakfast schedule.


    ¡°Then I¡¯ll build another stove.¡± Qiao Changshun said immediately.


    As a country gentleman, he was pretty much a jack-of-all-trades. A task like this was no challenge for him..

 Chapter 58 - 58: Earning Money Is Easy

    Chapter 58: Earning Money Is Easy


    Trantor: 549690339


    They had some leftover bricks from building the housest winter, which were enough to build a stove.


    Qiao Changshun prepared to start work while Qiao Xiaomai ced the ten chicks they had bought in the chicken coop.


    In order to spend all their silver and extinguish the Sun family¡¯s hopes, Zhuang Luhe had not only built a chicken coop, but also a pigsty, and bought chicks and piglets.


    However, Qiao Changshun broke his leg, and before the chicks and piglets could grow, they had to sell them all, leaving only empty nests.


    After putting the chicks in the coop, Qiao Xiaomai took out a ceramic pot and started boiling soybean pulp.


    She heard that raw soybean pulp should not be directly fed to chickens. Despite being unsure, she took precautions and decided to boil it before feeding.


    ¡°You have to cook it first?¡± Qiao Changshun was a little surprised.


    ¡°Hmm, we¡¯ve never done it before, so let¡¯s boil it first,¡± said Qiao Xiaomai.


    Qiao Changshun didn¡¯t say anything, but he was already regretting buying the chicks.


    Boiling the soybean pulp would require firewood, which was a hassle.


    With hisme leg, he couldn¡¯t go up the mountain to pick up firewood and had to rely on Qiao Xiaomai.


    With that thought in mind, Qiao Changshun silently carried on with his work, trying his best to lighten Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s burden.


    Qiao Xiaomai was unaware of Qiao Changshun¡¯s thoughts. She asked Qiao Dami to boil the soybean pulp while she went into the kitchen to cook lunch.


    They had been eating steamed buns and pancakes for the past few days, and she felt like having some noodles.


    She scooped out some flour from the jar, kneaded it into dough, rolled it into noodles, cut it into thin strands, and then called Qiao Dami in to start the fire.


    After finishing a delicious bowl of noodles, Qiao Dami patted her stomach and eximed, ¡°That was really tasty.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai nodded in agreement. She had made soup noodles and added a few eggs.


    Whether it was the eggs or the chewy noodles, the taste was absolutely delicious.


    However, making noodles here was too much of a hassle without a noodle machine.


    After lunch, Qiao Changshun continued building the stove while Qiao Xiaomai washed a few ceramic pots and a bathing tub.


    Thankfully, they had a well at home, otherwise carrying water would have been a big issue.


    Qiao Dami picked up a broken ceramic pot and said, ¡°Sister, 1 want to pick snails. 1 want to eat Brewed Snail.¡±


    Despite having had plenty of good foodtely, he could not forget that night¡¯s Brewed Snail!


    The fragrance was simply irresistible.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go together tomorrow,¡± Qiao Xiaomai wouldn¡¯t let him go alone. ¡°We might also catch some small fish while we¡¯re at it.¡±


    Since they didn¡¯t have any farnd now and only needed to make tofu each day, she could afford to spend some time with Qiao Dami.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go cut some grasster to feed the donkey,¡± she outlined her ns.


    Qiao Dami agreed, ¡°Then let¡¯s go cut some grass!¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai gave him a pleased look and continued her work.


    She ced the ceramic pots and bathing tub under the sun to dry, took a hemp bag, put on a carrying basket, and went to cut grass at the foot of the mountain with Qiao Dami.


    The day passed by like this. In the evening, she boiled arge pot of hot water and took a hot bath.


    By this time, Qiao Changshun and Qiao Dami were already asleep, so shefortably took the bathing tub full of water and poured it out in the courtyard.


    It was good to be strong!


    Before going to bed, she set an rm on her phone to ensure she woke up early.


    With the rm, she woke up quite early and made thirty taels of tofu and two pots of tofu pudding with Qiao Changshun.


    When pouring the tofu pudding into the ceramic pots, she specially measured it with a bowl. One pot held twenty-six bowls.


    Each bowl cost ten copper coins, which made two hundred and sixty coins for twenty-six bowls. So, two pots of tofu pudding amounted to five hundred and twenty coins, plus three hundred for the tofu, making a total of eight hundred and twenty coins.


    Seeing eight hundred and twenty copper coins stacked together, Qiao Changshun had aplex expression on his face.


    He wondered, was making money always this easy¡­

 Chapter 59 - 59: Delicious!

    Chapter 59: Delicious!


    Trantor: 549690339


    ¡°We used to struggle for our lives, barely making ends meet, but now¡­¡± Qiao Changshun sighed as he spoke.


    ¡°That¡¯s because you give everything you earn to the old courtyard.¡± Qiao Xiaomai didn¡¯t sugarcoat her words, speaking very directly.


    The current emperor is benevolent, the taxes are not heavy, and Anping Vige is near Bailu Town where they can find odd jobs. Plus, the money Zhuang Luhe earns from preparing feasts for others and the thank-you gifts she receives are enough to ensure that this family of four does not starve.


    Qiao Changshun appears docile and so stepped upon, hence why the family had to endure such a miserable life.


    Her words being so straightforward, upon hearing them, the wrinkles on Qiao Changshun¡¯s face deepened, and he felt as if a heavy stone was pressing on his chest, making it difficult for him to breathe.


    His son and daughter both are obedient and sensible. From the moment Zhuang Luhe, his daughter-inw, married him, she never lived a good day. Yet, over the years, she neverined. When he was bedridden, she took care of him as best she could. Even when they were so poor that they couldn¡¯t afford to pay taxes, she was still buying him white flour and pork¡­


    Rubbing his face, Qiao Changshun stood up. ¡°I¡¯m going to clean the chicken coop.¡±


    Seeing him upset again, Qiao Xiaomai let out a sound of acknowledgement and put away the copper coins.


    Being upset is good. It serves him right for making the original owner and lovely Dami suffer so much out of his foolish filial piety, tsk.


    It¡¯s mid-morning now. She called for Qiao Dami, preparing to take him up the mountain.


    The baskets at home weren¡¯t enough, so she nned to get some willow branches for Qiao Changshun to weave a few more.


    On the way up the mountain, they would pass by the small river in the vige. Qiao Dami wanted to eat Brewed Snail, so she brought along a broken pottery jar.


    Just as the siblings were headed up the mountain, Yuan Ding brought tofu and tofu pudding to Extreme vor Residence in his carriage.


    Shopkeeper He specially wrapped a few pieces of cloth around the two pottery jars containing the tofu pudding to keep it warm.


    Seeing Yuan Dinge in, he immediately ordered two servants cleaning vegetables in the backyard to carry the jars into his room.


    In his room, several small bowls filled with various seasonings were already set up.


    Picking up a spoon, he scooped a full spoonful from one of the jars and began to eat with satisfaction after adding cane sugar to it.


    The tofu pudding was still hot, its taste much better than the day before. Thebination of the tofu vor and sweetness made Shopkeeper He squint his eyes in contentment.


    The cold jelly noodles he had before were extremely delicious in his eyes, the tofu was a bit inferior, but it was still tasty.


    But the tofu pudding¡­ two words: breathtaking.


    So delicious!


    Almost wolfing down a bowl, he took another, this time with scallion and Cornelian Sauce. The hot and spicy vor, coupled with the smooth tofu pudding sliding down his throat without needing to chew ¨C superb!


    Awesome!


    But thinking how a bowl of tofu pudding was going to cost ten coin, Shopkeeper He¡¯s satisfaction immediately took a hit.


    With a dampened mood, he ate another bowl noisily.


    This time he added meat sauce, and the taste was also quite nice.


    After eating three bowls in a row, his belly was full to bursting.


    Wiping his mouth contentedly, he ordered the servants to take the jars and soak them in warm water.


    In half an hour, Extreme vor Residence would start doing business. He nned to use the same strategy as the cold jelly noodles and provide a small portion for customers to taste first. However, this time, his target audience would be the rich.


    Qiao Xiaomai sold it to him for ten coins a bowl. He had to sell it for at least twenty coins per bowl to soothe the pain in his heart..

 Chapter 60 - 60 He Wants to Earn the Money Back!

    Chapter 60: He Wants to Earn the Money Back!


    Trantor: 549690339


    The first floor of Jiwei Residence served as a dining area for themon people, while the second floor was home to private rooms.


    Bamboo was used for the walls of these private rooms, decorated with hung up calligraphy masterpieces from the masters of Bailu Academy, as a feast for the eyes of the dining students.


    The rooms were further adorned with the ¡°Four Treasures of Study¡±, allowing enthusiastic students to express their creativity over a meal.


    Furthermore, each room featured a flower stand, disying silk-made plum, orchid, and chrysanthemum flowers, perfectlyplementing the bamboo walls, a symbol of noble character.


    Essentially, ording to Shopkeeper He Zhanggui, this was all done to cultivate an elegant and refined atmosphere, while cunningly enticing the schrs out of their silver.


    Due to the cold jelly noodles, queues formed outside the entrance of Jiwei Residence before noon. Townsfolk patiently waited with their own bowls or pots.


    Others directly went inside, choosing between the first and second floors.


    Those going to the second floor were primarily students of Bailu Academy.


    Soon enough, all ten private rooms were filled with guests.


    He Zhanggui, beaming, knocked on the door of one private room. Behind him was a waitress carrying a tray, on which were several delicate dishes filled with tofu pudding and sauce.


    The portion of tofu pudding was modest, enough for only two mouthfuls.


    ¡°Young masters, our restaurant has introduced a new delicacy, named ¡®White Jade Flower¡¯. You may wish to give it a try.¡±


    As he finished speaking, he signaled the waitress to serve the tofu pudding to the three students in the room.


    One of them, who appeared naively honest with a square face andrge ears, picked up a small dish and curiously inquired, ¡°White Jade Flower?¡±


    Shopkeeper He, still grinning, nodded, ¡°Yes, Master Fan, please have a taste.¡±


    As he said this, he pointed towards the cane sugar and soy sauce ced on the table.


    This Master Fan was Fan Jia, the son of Fan De¡¯an, an official in the royal court. Recognizing him, Shopkeeper He was respectful in his manner.


    In addition, Fan Jia was known to be a gourmet, which was why He Zhanggui approached him first.


    The other two students were the sons of wealthy merchants but received equal respect from Shopkeeper He.


    Taking his advice, Fan Jia picked up a spoon and sprinkled some cane sugar onto the tofu pudding. His ssmates followed suit, tasting the tofu pudding to their liking.


    The pudding was tenderly smooth, delightfully sweet, and had already slipped down their throats before they could even chew, leaving a wonderful aftertaste of soybean and sweetness.


    Smacking his lips, Fan Jia turned to Shopkeeper He, ¡°Bring another round, actually, make it two.¡±


    Having tasted the cold jelly noodles and tofu before, Fan Jia did not question further but ordered the required servings outright.


    The remaining two students also echoed his request, ordering two more servings each. They all felt that the small dishes were simply too small; their taste buds barely got a chance to savor the vor when it was already gone.


    At this, Shopkeeper He promptly instructed the waitress behind him to prepare the food.


    Shortly after, the tofu pudding arrived, elegantly presented in a palm-sized bowl that was visually appealing.


    Indeed, following much thought, Shopkeeper He decided to sell two bowls in ce of one, while maintaining the same price. For something this exclusive and delectable, it wouldn¡¯t be fair to offer it too inexpensively.


    Fan Jia and his mates were unaware of the underlying profit-making scheme. Nheless, they earnestly savored the tofu pudding with their little spoons.


    After finishing a bowl, Fan Jia put down his spoon and turned to Shopkeeper He, ¡°What is this ¡®White Jade Flower¡¯ made of? And why this name?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s made from soybeans, hence the name ¡®White Jade Flower¡¯ owing to the resemnce of white jade,¡± Shopkeeper He elucidated. ¡°Due to its restricted avability, it¡¯s only served at noon. If you miss the timing, you¡¯ll have to wait until the next day..¡±

 Chapter 61 - 61: He Has a Powerful Backing, He is Proud

    Chapter 61: He Has a Powerful Backing, He is Proud


    Trantor: 549690339


    Fan Jia gave a thoughtful sound then sized up Shopkeeper He with an amused smile, ¡°Your Extreme Taste Residence has been introducing a lot of new delicacies recently, a new one every day.¡±


    The smile on Shopkeeper He¡¯s face broadened, ¡°I¡¯m grateful for your attention, young master.¡±


    Fan Jia clicked his tongue thoughtfully, ¡°Is there an Extreme Taste Residence in the Capital City?¡±


    ¡°We have already sent the cold jelly noodles. However, whether we can continue to supply it depends on the storage of sweet potatoes. Currently, only White Deer Town¡¯s Extreme Taste Residence offers the tofu and this Jade Flower dish,¡± Shopkeeper He responded.


    ¡°That¡¯s a bit of a pity then.¡± Fan Jia tapped his fingers on the table.


    His grandpa was more than eighty years old and had lost nearly all his teeth.


    The Jade Flower dish would certainly suit his pte.


    ¡°Do you sell this recipe?¡± he asked.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Master Fan, we can¡¯t sell the recipe,¡± Shopkeeper He hastily replied, a knot forming in his heart.


    Fan Jia tapped the table again thoughtfully. The owner of the Extreme Taste Residence was the Left Chancellor of the current imperial court. Although his father was a close minister to the emperor, he wasn¡¯tparable to the Left Chancellor.


    With evident disappointment, he added, ¡°Bring two more bowls.¡±


    Shopkeeper He readily agreed, ¡°Master Fan, if there¡¯s nothing else, 1 will take my leave now.¡±


    Fan Jia casually nodded.


    Shopkeeper He bowed respectfully to him and then carefully retreated from the private room.


    He wiped non-existent perspiration from his forehead, his face a mixture of emotions.


    Originally, he had just wanted to promote the tofu pudding. However, as the appeal of the tofu pudding exceeded his expectation, he almost couldn¡¯t keep it to himself. If not for his strong backing, he could have lost it.


    He clicked his tongue, feeling a bitter yet proud sense of victory.


    With these mixed emotions, he knocked on the door of the next private room.


    He needed to establish the reputation of tofu pudding. Such delightful food deserved to be sought after by the masses.


    So he went about, from one private room to another promoting it. By the time he made it to the tenth room, both containers of tofu pudding had been sold out.


    He paid Qiao Xiaomai 520 wen. After deducting the cost of the three bowls he ate and two bowls he sent out as tasting samples, he made a profit of 1,800 wen.


    This was equivalent to over three hundred servings of stir-fried cold jelly noodles.


    This was good business indeed.


    Considering today¡¯s demand, tomorrow¡¯s supply of tofu pudding would certainly not meet the demand.


    ¡°Sigh¡­ How can I convince Qiao Xiaomai to produce more?¡± he wondered.


    Initially, he had nned to distribute the tofu to the nearby Extreme Taste Residence branches. However, even the supply for Bailu Town alone was insufficient.


    Even though he had provided arge grindstone and loaned a donkey, Qiao Xiaomai only produced this little, not even enough to fill a small gap between teeth!


    A minimum of a hundred catties per day would be much better!


    And how to supply to the Capital City? As a loyal subordinate, he should send the best goods to the Capital City.


    Qiao Xiaomai was unaware of Shopkeeper He¡¯s predicament, nor did she know that he had sold her tofu pudding, priced at ten wen per bowl, for forty wen per bowl. She picked enough willow branches on the mountain and then descended with Qiao Dami.


    On their way down, they stopped by a small river.


    The vige¡¯s river was just over two meters wide, and its clear water allowed you to see finger-long small fish swimming freely. The little fish that Qiao Dami caughtst time were deep-fried by her and it tasted quite good.


    Vigers who wanted to catch small fish would either jump directly into the river as the shallow water wasn¡¯t enough to drown a person, or stand on the rocks in the shallow water with a basin to scoop.


    Qiao Xiaomai wasn¡¯t nning to go into the water. She stood on a rock, holding her broken y pot, ready to catch some fish.


    Anyway, this was just for Qiao Dami to whip up something delicious, so catching a few would be more than enough..

 Chapter 62 - 62: She Has Special Fishing Skills

    Chapter 62: She Has Special Fishing Skills


    Trantor: 549690339


    Although the idea was good, implementation was challenging. She stood on the stone, immobilized, and could only wait for Little yuyu to swim towards her.


    But after waiting a long time, not a single one swam into the y pot.


    ¡°Dami, why don¡¯t you dig a pit in the twig and catch fish to throw into it,¡± she suggested with a sly twinkle in her eye to Qiao Dami.


    Qiao Dami agreed and began to dig the pit.


    Seeing Qiao Dami was not paying attention to her, she raised an eyebrow and reached toward the little fish swimming towards her.


    Then the fish entered her space. While Qiao Dami was not looking, she quickly threw the fish into the y pot.


    In the past, her space couldn¡¯t contain living things ¨C anything alive that went in would immediately die ¨C but ever since she had acquired the little water pit, it could contain living creatures.


    Using her space as an unfair advantage, none of the little fish that swam past her managed to escape.


    When Qiao Dami finished digging a small water pit about a foot wide, and saw that more than twenty small fishes were already in the y pot, he couldn¡¯t help but exim, ¡°Wow, my sister is amazing!¡±


    A satisfied smile spread across Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s face. Naturally, she was great; after all, she had a space.


    Having also collected some river snails, the siblings returned home.


    She spilled the fish and snails into the wooden basin, allowing them to spit out the dirt and sand, then rolled up her sleeves and began preparing lunch.


    Qiao Dami expressed his desire to eat noodles, so she kneaded dough, rolled it out, sliced it, and put it in the pot to cook.


    After finishing a delicious bowl of noodles, Qiao Xiaomai cleaned the pot and dishes, while Qiao Changshun started weaving baskets.


    After finishing her kitchen chores, Qiao Xiaomai returned to her room and took out two pieces of silk she had bought yesterday to make underwear.


    The previous owner had some basic embroidery skills. After her transmigration, she inherited these memories and awkwardly managed to do some work.


    But to save trouble, she created a simple piece of underwear modeled after a sweatshirt from her previous world. It was to be worn inside, so as long as it could prevent the clothes from scratching her skin, it would suffice.


    She spent the whole afternoon making a small sweatshirt and a pair of small pants for Qiao Dami, who was so overjoyed, he didn¡¯t want to take them off.


    They¡¯re so soft!


    This is the first time wearing silk clothes!


    Seeing the peculiar style, Qiao Changshun asked Qiao Xiaomai, ¡°Why is it designed this way?¡±


    ¡°This way is faster. We need to earn money, so we¡¯ll do whatever is quickest,¡± she answered.


    This reasoning made Qiao Changshun silent for a moment. ¡°Don¡¯t always think about earning money. You should practice embroidery too. You¡¯re of age; when you get married, if you can¡¯t handle needlework, you may be belittled by your inws.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai was lost for words,¡±¡­¡±


    This body hadn¡¯t even reached its fifteenth birthday yet!


    She decided to change the subject quickly, ¡°Dad, when can we buy back thend we sold to the Vige Chief?¡±


    Previously, to pay for Qiao Changshun¡¯s medical treatment, the whole fifteen acres ofnd was sold to Tong Tiehu. Now that she had money at home, they might as well buy it back.


    After the wheat was harvested, they could start nting soybeans. It wasn¡¯t feasible to keep on buying soybeans. Growing them on their own would be more economical.


    As expected, the mention ofnd drew Qiao Changshun¡¯s attention immediately, ¡°Fine!¡±


    ¡°But¡­¡± He paused and added, ¡°We should first prepare the wheat and linen needed for the spring tax. It¡¯ll be a relief once these things are bought back.¡±


    He didn¡¯t n to pay with silver; it was twice as expensive in the long run.


    ¡°Alright, let¡¯s go to town together in a few days,¡± Qiao Xiaomai agreed, ¡°Let¡¯s prepare a bit more tofu and bean curd for tomorrow.¡±


    Whether it¡¯s buyingnd or buying wheat and linen, they¡¯ll need money.


    There was only limited silver in her hand, she needed to earn more.


    Qiao Changshun has no objection to this; he wished they could prepare more tofu and bean curd every day.


    Therefore, before going to bed that night, Qiao Xiaomai soaked twenty pounds of soybeans..

 Chapter 63 - 63 - My marriage, my decision

    Chapter 63: ¨C My marriage, my decision


    Trantor: 549690339


    As they needed to grind more soybeans, Qiao Xiaomai and Qiao Changsun woke up even earlier. It took them over two hours to make the tofu and bean curd.


    They weren¡¯t particrly skilled at using a donkey to turn the millstone, but as they became more ustomed to it, they were able to work faster.


    When Yuan Ding arrived and learned that there were four jars of bean curd this time, he was very pleased.


    ¡°Miss Qiao, when I was on my way here, the shopkeeper asked me to ry a message to you. He said that the bean curd sells well and hopes you can produce more. You made four jars today, he will definitely be delighted!¡±


    ¡°So, how much does your shopkeeper sell a bowl of bean curd for?¡± Qiao Xiaomai asked curiously.


    ¡°For each bowl, he splits it into two and sells each for twenty wen.¡± Yuan Ding answered truthfully without hiding anything.


    Qiao Xiaomai,


    Unsurprisingly, he¡¯s a merchant!


    ¡°Miss Qiao, I didn¡¯t bring enough silver today, let¡¯s settle the rest in the afternoon.¡± Yuan Ding added.


    He usually pays daily, but he wasn¡¯t prepared for Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s sudden increase in production.


    There were only four jars in Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s house, so he would have to return the jars in the afternoon.


    Qiao Xiaomai nodded, ¡°Okay.¡±


    After helping Yuan Ding load the tofu and bean curd onto the cart, Qiao Xiaomai turned and headed back to the courtyard.


    After making undergarments for Qiao Dami yesterday, it was time to make her own today.


    She brought a stool into the courtyard and sat under the sun, sewing swiftly. Qiao Changsun finished feeding the chickens and then gathered the dirtyundry, sitting beside the well to wash them.


    Qiao Dami also brought a small stool over and sat next to the well. Using a little brush made from a willow twig, he began to clean the river snails they caught yesterday.


    Qiao Changsun¡¯s attention was always on Qiao Xiaomai. Seeing her sewing only caring for speed without considering aesthetics¡ªhe frowned even more, ¡°Xiaomai, if you keep on sewing like this, you will be despised by your future inws.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai, who had been concentrating on her work was,¡±¡­.¡±


    She opened her mouth somewhat helplessly, ¡°Father, why do you keep thinking about this?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re of marrying age, how can 1 not think about it?¡± Qiao Changsun sighed.


    In the past when they were poor, other than the Jiang family who had once proposed marriage for their foolish son, no matchmaker had ever visited.


    Now that their family¡¯s situation had improved, Zhuang Luhe had eloped with a rogue.


    The bad influence this incident brought was much worse than being poor.


    He genuinely worried that Qiao Xiaomai wouldn¡¯t be able to get married, and even if she did, he feared she would be mistreated by her inws.


    ¡°All. it¡¯s all my fault.¡± Qiao Changshun murmured, sighing deeply. The


    wrinkles on his face deepened, and inbination with his dark, sallowplexion, he looked even older. ¡°I¡¯ve never considered for you threedies before. It¡¯s my fault¡­¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai,¡±¡­.¡±


    She held her forehead in exasperation, ¡°Father, can we not talk about this?¡±


    ¡°How can we not talk about it? You¡¯re bound to get married someday. We have to arrange it as early as possible, or else all the good men will be chosen by others. Should I arrange for someone to keep an eye out for potential suitors?¡±


    ¡°I will not get married.¡± Qiao Xiaomai declined categorically.


    ¡°How can you not get married?!¡± Qiao Changshun was astonished.


    ¡°What¡¯s so good about getting married? To meet a mother-inw like grandma and be bullied for a lifetime?¡± A glimmer of coldness shed through Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s face. And men, when in love, they would take vows and make grand promises, but when the passion faded, they would start to cheat.


    Qiao Changshun,¡±¡­.¡±


    With the bloody example of Zhuang Luheid inly before his eyes, Qiao Changshun found himself unable to refute Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s words.


    After a long silence, he finally muttered, ¡°1 will make sure to choose a good one for you.¡±


    ¡°No need, I will decide my own marriage. Father, don¡¯t bring this up again. No matter what you say, I won¡¯t listen.¡± Qiao Xiaomai rose to her feet, took her sewing basket back to her room.


    With a gloomy face, she carried a basket on her back, took a hemp bag and walked towards the courtyard gate, ¡°I¡¯m going to chop some grass for the donkey.¡±


    Before the echoes of her words died down, she had already left the courtyard.


    Qiao Changshun was left, stunned..

 Chapter 64 - 64: Forget About It

    Chapter 64: Forget About It


    Trantor: 549690339


    Xiaomai Qiao left her home and ran up the hill.


    After making sure nobody was around, she clenched her lips, raised her foot and forcefully kicked the ck locust tree next to her, as big as a bowl.


    With a ¡°crack¡± sound, the ck locust tree broke off from where she had kicked, falling over in the opposite direction.


    The trees on the hill were lush and close to each other, and the toppled ck locust was stopped by the other trees, preventing it from fallingpletely to the ground.


    She expressionlessly took out a mountain axe from nowhere, wielded it with both hands, and fiercely chopped at the ck locust tree.


    The dull sound of the axe hitting the tree echoed, and a quarter of an hourter, several uneven chunks of the ck locust tree had fallen to the ground.


    Gazing at the pile of fallen ck locust tree chunks, the fire in her heart finally found a way to vent.


    She then took out a stool from nowhere, and sat on it, panting heavily.


    When her emotions had fully subsided, her facial expression returned to normal. She put the axe and stool away, then went to a spot where the wild grass was lush to start cutting it.


    Let¡¯s now turn to Qiao Changshun back at home.


    Xiaomai Qiao¡¯s sullen departure only deepened his already sinking mood.


    Due to his previous foolish filial piety, his wife had run away.


    And his daughter had developed a negative impression of marriage.


    It was all his fault!


    While he was stuck in these difficult thoughts, his always quiet son Dami Qiao finally spoke up, ¡°Dad, 1 don¡¯t want sister to get married.¡±


    ¡°Why?¡± Qiao Changshun looked at his son in surprise.


    ¡°I can¡¯t bear to let sister go. Besides, mom¡¯s now gone to earn money. If sister gets married too, it¡¯ll just be the two of us left.¡± With ck and white clear eyes, Dami Qiao was earnestly expressing his reasons.


    H ii


    The words tugged at Changshun Qiao¡¯s heartstrings.


    He sighed deeply, nodded, and said, ¡°All right, we won¡¯t rush your sister to get married, then.¡±


    The whole thing with Zhuang Luhe must have left a shadow on Xiaomai Qiao. It¡¯s normal for her to feel apprehensive and resistant towards the idea of marriage now.


    Besides, with Zhuang Luhe gone, Xiaomai Qiao must be grieving. The three of them are all each other has now. If Xiaomai Qiao were to get married and leave, it would just be him and Dami Qiao left.


    When Xiaomai Qiao returned, Qiao Changshun was there, ready to apologize, ¡°1 was wrong, if you don¡¯t want to get married, then don¡¯t.¡±


    Seeing the change in his attitude, Xiaomai Qiao was puzzled, ¡°You¡¯re not rushing me anymore?¡±


    ¡°No, I¡¯m not. It¡¯s just the three of us left in our family, I don¡¯t want you to get married too soon. Whenever you feel ready to get married, you can.¡±


    Xiaomai Qiao responded with a long ¡°oh¡±, understanding his point.


    A smile then spread across her young face, ¡°I also can¡¯t bear to be apart from dad and Dami.¡±


    Hearing this, Changshun Qiao felt relieved. A smile appeared on his usually wrinkled face and he rubbed his hands, asking, ¡°You must be tired from your trip up the mountain, what would you like to eat? I¡¯ll cook it.¡±


    Before Xiaomai Qiao could answer, Dami Qiao cut in, ¡°Dad, your cooking isn¡¯t as good as sister¡¯s. 1 want Brewed Snail.¡±


    He had already washed the snails and readied them!


    Seeing the hopeful look in his brother¡¯s eyes, Xiaomai Qiao¡¯s smile broadened, ¡°Okay, we¡¯ll have Brewed Snail for lunch.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll start the fire!¡± Dami Qiao immediately volunteered, ¡°I¡¯ll learn to make Brewed Snail too. Once I¡¯ve learned, I¡¯ll cook it for dad and sister!¡±


    ¡°You little one.¡± Xiaomai Qiao ruffled his hair, ¡°Just stick to starting the fire.¡±


    ¡°Then 1 will learn.¡± Changsun Qiao replied.


    Now that he couldn¡¯t work in the fields or climb the mountains, he was supposed to take over the kitchen duties anyway.


    Xiaomai Qiao nodded, ¡°Alright.¡±


    Sometimes, she also wanted to bezy. Having Changsun Qiao cook would be convenient..

 Chapter 65 - 65: The Darling Lump Returns

    Chapter 65: The Darling Lump Returns


    Trantor: 549690339


    So the family of three entered the kitchen, with Qiao Dami making the fire, and Qiao Changshun learning to cook alongside Qiao Xiaomai.


    In addition to the Brewed Snails, Qiao Xiaomai also sliced some pork and made a dish of Stewed Pork with Vermicelli.


    The vermicelli was brought by Yuan Ding, who had run out of sweet potatoes at home and had to buy them from Jiwei Inn. Yesterday she agreed with Yuan Ding to bring some, and today she brought them, a full five catties, enough for her family to eat for a long time.


    When the lunch was ready, Qiao Changshun moved the small table to the middle of the courtyard, and the family of three gathered around the small table for lunch.


    White steamed buns, greasy Brewed Snails, and fragrant Stewed Pork with Vermicelli, Qiao Dami ate so much that her mouth was full, ¡°It¡¯s like Chinese New Year!¡±


    ¡°Eat slowly, from now on, every day in our house will be like Chinese New Year.¡±


    Qiao Dami nodded vigorously, the smile on her small face never ceasing.


    Qiao Changshun grabbed a chopstick full of vermicelli, eating it with a slurping sound like eating noodles. Compared to liangfen (bean jelly), he preferred vermicelli, which had a nice aroma, was soft, and filled his stomach.


    Just as the family of three was thoroughly enjoying their meal, the Qiao Family¡¯s old courtyard, which had been quiet for two days, became lively again.


    The youngest son of the Qiao Family, Sun Junyan, had returned.


    Sun Junyan, eighteen this year, went to study at the Bailu Academy at the age of eight and passed the Child Student Test at the age of fifteen.


    ording to the ¡°Daqi Laws¡±, before schrs participate in the official Imperial Exam, they must first pass a preliminary examination called the Child Student Test. Once they pass, they acquire the status of a child student and can participate in the subsequent County-level Examination.


    After Sun Junyan became a child student that year, he happened to encounter the County-level Examination which happens once every three years. If he passed that, he would earn the status of a xiucai, a degree holder.


    A xiucai does not need to kneel when seeing the county magistrate and can also enjoy tax exemptions, which are many benefits for rural people.


    With the hopes of the Qiao Family, Sun Junyan went to County Town to participate the County-level Examination.


    Perhaps the exam questions were too difficult or he was too young and inexperienced, either way, he failed and did not pass.


    However, the Qiao Family and he did not lose heart. He was only fifteen years old, there was still a lot of time ahead.


    After dedicating himself to his studies for three years, there is another County-level Examination this autumn. In order to concentrate on his studies, Sun Junyan, from the time of Chinese New Year to now, has returned for the first time in three months.


    The family¡¯s hopes had returned. Despite being scolded, Sun¡¯s family and the beaten Zhu Cuiying were all pleased. Sun¡¯s family called back Qiao Chang¡¯an, the third oldest, and Qiao Changkang, the fourth oldest, to the old Qiao Family courtyard. The entire family gathered around the table, livelily enjoying a reunion meal.


    In the past, such reunion meals were prepared by Zhuang Luhe. Although her cooking skills were not as good as those of the restaurant chefs in the town, they were definitely much better than the others.


    But now Zhuang Luhe was no longer around, and Zhu Cuiying didn¡¯t want to enter the kitchen because of her injured hip, so the task of cooking was shared by Qiao Chang¡¯an¡¯s wife, Zhao Shufen, and Qiao Changkang¡¯s wife, Wu Yinfeng.


    As for Sun Junyan, Sun¡¯s family had always been generous. Eggs, pork, and chicken were all servedvishly, like it was Chinese New Year.


    However, when these ingredients ended up in the hands of Zhao Shufen and Wu Yinfeng, they did not bring out the usual wonderful taste.


    At the dining table, Sun Junyan¡¯s gaze drifted around the more than ten people present and he asked in surprise, ¡°I was so busy chatting with my father and brothers just now that I didn¡¯t notice the absence of my second brother and sister-inw. Where are they?¡±


    At these words, the dining table went silent for a moment.


    Sun¡¯s family withdrew their smiling faces, revealing a look of scorn. She snorted coldly and said, ¡°That cheap woman, Zhuang Luhe, ran off with some random man. She is not your sister-inw. As for your second brother, even though I¡¯ve always pampered him the most, he provoked the Vige Chief to hit your eldest sister-inw. He¡¯s a treacherous and unfilial thing. In the future, if you see his family, stay away and don¡¯t deal with them..¡±

 Chapter 66 - 66: Exposure

    Chapter 66: Exposure


    Trantor: 549690339


    Sun Junyan was stunned. ¡°What?¡±


    Qiao Qinghe put on a stern face, threw his chopsticks onto the table with a ¡°ng,¡± and scolded, ¡°Keep your nose out of Changsun¡¯s business.¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s the one who¡¯s done it and I can¡¯t even say anything?¡± Anger red in Madam Sun¡¯s heart. The memory of Qiao Qinghe¡¯s words about division of the house fanned the mes. She too threw her chopsticks on the table and spoke with an aggressive tone, ¡°Xiaowu, you be the judge. Who¡¯s in the right here?¡±


    As his parents started to argue, Sun Junyan quickly said, ¡°Mother, calm down, take it slow.¡±


    ¡°I can¡¯t calm down!¡± Madam Sun mmed on the table and began to tell all that had happened.


    From the day Zhuang Luhe ran off, she and Zhu Cuiying clearly went to upy the house. But in her narrative, they were trying to help alleviate Qiao Changshun¡¯s family problems.


    It was Qiao Xiaomai who was ungrateful and even deliberately tried to taint her and Zhu Cuiying¡¯s reputation, moring to see an official. What a foul wench!


    Then there was the incident on the fifth day. Zhu Cuiying went to give respects and offered money.


    Even though Zhu Cuiying was being used of stealing silver and consequently beaten, ording to her, Zhu Cuiying saw the penniless Qiao Xiaomai suddenly bing extravagant and warned her out of concern. But this ungrateful wretch Qiao Xiaomai took her incidental remark to the vige chief.


    She even nned to make a scene at the academy in town to distract Sun Junyan from his studies.


    After going through the whole series of events, Madam Sun¡¯s face became distorted with rage, ¡°Xiaowu, your elder sister-inw and I were clearly considering for Changsun¡¯s sake, but ended up being reprimanded and beaten. How can I not be angry?¡±


    Sun Junyan was gobsmacked.


    This story hardly seemed like something his quiet and hard-working niece could stir up.


    ¡°Mother, calm down, take a sip of soup.¡± Sun Junyan picked up the bowl in front of Madam Sun, filling it with chicken soup.


    Then he turned to Zhu Cuiying, ¡°Elder sister-inw, are you alright?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m fine, I¡¯m fine.¡± Zhu Cuiying quickly shook her head.


    She never threw tantrums in front of her brother-inw. She dared not defile his schrly elegance.


    Sun Junyan gave a small smile and turned back to Madam Sun, gently asked, ¡°Without discussing who is right or wrong for now, Mother, did you say Xiaomai sold her vegetable recipes to Jiwai?¡±


    Madam Sun¡¯s anger subsided a little with Sun Junyan¡¯s considerate gesture of pouring soup. She picked up the bowl and took a sip to moisten her throat, then said, ¡°That¡¯s what Tong Sang said. Who knows if he was lying, he¡¯s been bewitched by that wench, he might be making up stories to help her.¡±


    Hearing this, Sun Junyan pointed to the Fried Cold Noodles and Fried Noodle Strips on the table, ¡°These two dishes are newly introduced at Jiwai. They¡¯ve taken over Bailu Town in just a few days.¡±


    ¡°The timeline of Xiaomai selling vegetable recipes and these two dishes appearing matches perfectly. If what Tong Sang said is true, these two dishes must be Xiaomai¡¯s innovations.¡±


    Every time he returned home, he would bring some delicacies for Qiao Qinghe, Madam Sun, and the children of the Qiao family. The Fried Cold Noodles and Fried Noodle Strips are very popr in entire Bailu Town, they are cheap and delicious, so he brought them home this time.


    He hadn¡¯t expected these two dishes are the creativity of his niece.


    Interesting.


    Madam Sun


    She choked on the chicken soup in her mouth and started coughing violently..

 Chapter 67 - 67: Mind Filling

    Chapter 67: Mind Filling


    Trantor: 549690339


    ¡°Cough cough cough¡­ What did you say? These two dishes were created by that wretch?!¡± eximed Sun from the Sun Family, clutching Sun Junyan¡¯s arm, her veins bulging notably from the back of her hand due to her agitation.


    Sun Junyan nodded, ¡°Yes, these should be the two. They cost only five Wen each, delicious and affordable, many people are buying them. In these two days, long queues formed in front of Jiwei Residence, and I overheard someone mention that they could sell over a thousand portions daily.¡±


    ¡°I heard that the main ingredients for these two dishes are sweet potatoes, transforming sweet potatoes into this form, that girl Xiaomai is really brainy.¡±


    Sun from the Sun Family was dumbstruck.


    The others present were all dumbstruck, too.


    They quickly calcted in their heads, a portion costing five Wen, a thousand portions would amount to five thousand Wen, adding up two dishes, that would be ten thousand Wen!


    Converted into silver, that would be ten taels of silver!


    Making ten taels of silver a day, good heavens!!!


    ¡°That vile girl, 1 am going to confront her!¡± Zhu Cuiying abruptly stood up, her buttocks still hurt from the injuries, she had pretended to be frail these past days, pushing all household chores and fieldwork unto Qiao Ying.


    But looking at her now, flushed with anger, grinding her teeth, she seemed far from injured.


    Her face was red with fury.


    She was gritting her teeth in envy.


    Dish recipes that could earn ten taels daily, that wretch must have made a fortune selling them, maybe at least a thousand taels?


    No no no, a thousand taels could be earned shortly.


    That wretch couldn¡¯t be that naive, she probably made several thousand taels, inside the three-tiled rooms, probably a pile of silver!


    At the thought of a mountain of glittering silver, Zhu Cuiying not only flushed, but her eyes were also red.


    She was even having trouble breathing!


    ¡°Confront her! Indeed, that heartless girl is hoarding piles of silver and only willing to give us a hundred Wen, utterly disrespectful!¡± Sun from the Sun Family also stood up angrily.


    ¡°Stop!¡± Qiao Qinghe¡¯s face darkened, ¡°How much silver she makes, what¡¯s that to do with you two? Especially you, the oldest, a grown woman, what do you intend to do by confronting her? You once reached into Changsun¡¯s house, have you forgotten those dozens of strokes by the Vige Chief?¡±


    ¡°Dad, I¡¯m considering for you and mom, look at our meals, then look at Changsun¡¯s, there¡¯s absolutely no way we should be eating frugally while they dine on delicacies!¡± being scolded, Zhu Cuiying wisened up and used Qiao Qinghe and Sun from Sun Family as her shield.


    ¡°Eating in food?¡± Qiao Qinghe¡¯s face darkened even more, ¡°Point to me, out of all the dishes on this table, which one is in, which one is wild.¡±


    Zhu Cuiying, ¡°¡­.I was merely speaking for effect, even though we don¡¯t have in or wild food, our living condition,pared to Changsun¡¯s, is far less well-off, you and mum are older, Changsun should offer you gifts, it¡¯s only fair and right.¡±


    Anping Vige is adjacent to Bailu Town, buying, selling and working are all convenient, except for the especiallyzy, the vigers of Anping Vige lead decent lives.


    However, due to Sun Junyan¡¯s presence, the Qiao Family¡¯s living condition is a bit tighterpared to the others.


    Except for when Sun Junyanes back home, it was rare to see meat dishes on the table.


    Now that Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s house has got a pile of silver, they must be enjoying sumptuous meals daily, how could the younger generation be dining on luxurious food while the elders make do with coarse tea and light meals! ¡°Exactly!¡± Sun from Sun Family echoed Zhu Cuiying¡¯s words.


    Qiao Meipan also nodded vigorously, she wanted to marry Tong Sang, yet now Qiao Xiaomai used some unknown means to hook up with this handsome young man, she had the strong urge to choke life out of Qiao Xiaomai!

 Chapter 68 - 68: 68: For a Bite to Eat

    Chapter 68 - 68: 68: For a Bite to Eat


    Trantor: 549690339


    ¡°Shut up, do you think I am unaware of what you are nning?¡± Qiao Qinghe snorted coldly, his gaze shifting between the Sun Family and Zhu Cuiying, ¡°Changsun has already handed out his hundred wen of monthly filial piety money. If you want Changsun to provide more silver, then you and the third and fourth should also increase your filial piety money.¡±


    ¡°You and Changsun are brothers. What he gives, you should too. Don¡¯t think you can always take advantage of him just because he is honest.¡±


    At this, Qiao Changfu, Qiao Chang¡¯an, and Qiao Changkang all spoke up.


    Qiao Changfu, ¡°Father, Dazhu doesn¡¯t have enough money for his wife yet. The hundred wen a month is what Cuiying and 1 saved by tightening our belt.¡±


    Qiao Chang¡¯an, ¡°Father, filial piety should be determined based on the circumstances. If someone has more money, they should contribute more. If they have less, they should contribute less. Your equal treatment may seem fair, but it¡¯s actually difficult for us brothers.¡±


    Qiao Changkang, ¡°Father, isn¡¯t the silver we took from Changsun eventually spent on you and mother? My elder brother, third brother and 1 can¡¯t get a single wen. My big sister-inw is also considering for you and mother.¡±


    Qiao Changkang¡¯s words were not without merit; over the years, the money umted by the Sun Family had mostly been spent on Sun Junyan.


    Even if it hasn¡¯t been spent now, it will be in the future: going to the capital for the examination requires arge amount of silver!


    Aside from Qiao Meipan, it was almost impossible for anyone else to get silver from the Sun family.


    Qiao Qinghe, taking in all these words, responded sternly, ¡°Your mother and 1 don¡¯t need Changsun¡¯s filial piety. We have enough to eat and wear. We¡¯re not struggling. Stop thinking crooked thoughts!¡±


    He believed in Qiao Changshun¡¯s filial piety. If the family really hit hard times, Changshun would be the first to help, readily providing silver without a second thought.


    With that attitude, he had no other wishes.


    ¡°You may not need it, but I do! I¡¯m sick of eating this every day, it feels like I have bird feathers in my mouth. And Xiaowu, he¡¯s studying so hard that he¡¯s be skin and bones! He should be preparing for the local exams this fall and needs extra nourishment! Without money, how can we afford that?¡±


    The Sun Family pointed at Sun Junyan, firmly asserting her point.


    ¡°What¡¯s more, it¡¯s not like we¡¯re simply taking from him. Once Xiaowu gets a position in the government, we¡¯ll pay him back!¡±


    Each of the Qiao brothers gave fifty wen each month to support Qiao Qinghe and the Sun Family, and another fifty for Sun Junyan¡¯s education.


    However, the money given to Sun Junyan was not simply a gift; every penny was recorded and was to be repaid once Junyan secured a government position.


    That¡¯s why over the years, the Qiao brothers had willingly given the money.


    However, how much truth there was in what the Sun Family said, only she herself knew.


    ¡°So, you want to make a scene, huh? Fine, I¡¯ll move out right now then.¡± Qiao Qinghe also stood up, striding towards his room with an air of packing his things and leaving at any moment.


    Seeing this, the Sun Family got a bit flustered, ¡°My husband, you clearly favor Changsun too much. Even if it¡¯s for Xiaowu¡¯s sake, you can¡¯t act like this!¡±


    Sun Junyan had a panicked look, he hurried to stop Qiao Qinghe, ¡°Father, let¡¯s talk this over. I¡¯m a grown man now, I won¡¯t starve. Please sit down and don¡¯t get angry. Mother only meant well.¡±


    Zhao Shufen, who had been silent all this time, swiveled her eyes and chimed in, ¡°Father, let¡¯s forget about the silver for the moment.. Regarding the food, since this idea came from Xiaomai, our family surely won¡¯t need to buy it with more money, will we?¡±

 Chapter 69 - 69: 69: More Imagination

    Chapter 69 - 69: 69: More Imagination


    Trantor: 549690339


    ¡°Indeed, indeed.¡± Wu Yinfeng also spoke up, in a soft and gentle manner she said to Qiao Qinghe, ¡°Dad, since it¡¯s made from sweet potato, these two dishes are not expensive, it just takes a little effort. We have so many people, if each person takes one bite, it will be gone. The adults aren¡¯t so eager, but there are so many children.¡±


    ¡°The recipes that we¡¯ve thought of ourselves, shouldn¡¯t we let our own family have enough to eat? 1 think we should go to Changsun¡¯s house and ask for a bit.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s exactly it.¡± Zhao Shufen looked at Wu Yinfeng, the two of them made eye contact, quickly looked away, and together turned their gaze on Qiao Qinghe.


    If they can¡¯t get the silver, can they at least get some food?


    ¡°I want to eat!¡± Qiao Xiaobao from Qiao Chang¡¯an¡¯s family mmed the table and yelled.


    He is Qiao Chang¡¯an¡¯s youngest son, only ten years old, always spoiled like a cherished gem. When Zhu Cuiying falsely used Qiao Xiaomai of stealing silver, she said that the whole family went to visit Xiaobao, referring to this Qiao Xiaobao.


    ¡°I want to eat!¡± Qiao Meipan spoke up, as she said this, she even stood up, ¡°1 want to go find Xiaomai.¡±


    She want to see how this wily girl won over young master Tong!


    ¡°Head of the household, you see, don¡¯t you? The children are crying out to eat. You¡¯re not going to stop this, are you?¡± The matriarch of the Sun family asked with a stern face.


    Qiao Qinghe really had no rebuttal.


    The cold jelly noodles are made from sweet potatoes, and sweet potatoes are the cheapest food. Eating a little of Qiao Changshun¡¯s sweet potato really doesn¡¯t amount to much.


    Seeing that Qiao Changshun didn¡¯t object, Zhao Shufen¡¯s eyes rolled again and she began to speak, ¡°Dad, didn¡¯t Xiaomaie up with something about tofu too? Made from yellow beans, it tastes pretty good too. 1 heard there¡¯s been a horse-drawn carriage going to her house to buy tofu these past few days.¡±


    ¡°Since the cold jelly noodles are so valuable, then the tofu must be worth something too. Now, Changsun¡¯s home is not like before, and it¡¯s not a big deal for the children to eat a little of his food.¡±


    Previously, Qiao Xiaomai made tofu and not only sent some to Yang Gun, but also to Qiao Qinghe.


    Then, she sent some to Qiao Chang¡¯an and Qiao Changkang as well.


    The matter of Yuan Ding driving a carriage to Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s house to buy tofu had already spread throughout Anping Vige, but since Zhu Cuiying had just been punished, Zhao Shufen didn¡¯t dare to say.


    Now, there¡¯s this opportunity, so she brought it up as if casually, her eyes on Qiao Qinghe, but she was actually paying attention to Sun Junyan.


    Sure enough, when she finished speaking, a look of surprise appeared on Sun Junyan¡¯s face, ¡°What, the tofu was also made by Xiaomai?!¡±


    ¡°Yes, it was sent to us parents to taste, it tastes pretty good.¡± Zhao Shufen said.


    Sun Junyan sighed deeply, ¡°Then my second brother¡¯s family is really about to change their luck. The dishes made with tofu can sell for twenty or thirty Wen each, besides tofu there¡¯s another food called White Jade Flower, which I¡¯ve heard is made from beans too, also called tofu pudding, a small bowl can sell for twenty Wen.¡±


    ¡°This tofu and tofu pudding are sold at such high prices, ordinary people can¡¯t afford them, only people in the private rooms on the second floor of Jiwei Residence order them, 1 just identally overheard the son of the Fan family mentioning this.¡±


    Twenty to thirty Wen!!!


    A small bowl, twenty Wen!!!


    Each word felt like a needle, heartlessly piercing through the bodies of many present, making them breathe heavily with crimson eyes.


    This is another mound of silver, a mound of silver!


    ¡°Changshun sent two catties over before, I heard it was made from yellow beans, so I didn¡¯t think much of it, but it turned out to be sold at such a high price¡­¡± Qiao Chang¡¯an muttered to himself, his brain stunned by the gentle light emitted from the mound of silver.


    Zhao Shufen took a deep breath, raised her hand and fiercely pinched her thigh. She looked at Qiao Qinghe, squeezing a smile on her face, ¡°Dad, since Changshun has such a money-making method, eating a few bites of his cold jelly noodles won¡¯t make him poor.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll go now!¡± Qiao Meipan ran towards the courtyard gate.


    That girl, who always kept her head down and didn¡¯t speak, was suddenly getting rich quietly, she had to see it with her own eyes!

 Chapter 70 - 70: 70: Breaking into the House

    Chapter 70 - 70: 70: Breaking into the House


    Trantor: 549690339


    Qiao Meipan vanished out of sight, and Sun Family hastily followed suit,pletely ignoring Qiao Qinghe¡¯s scolding.


    She snorted. With Sun Junyan at home, she didn¡¯t believe Qiao Qinghe would really pack up his things and move out.


    Seeing this, Qiao Qinghe stamped his foot in anger and rushed towards Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s house.


    Last time when Sun Family, Qiao Changfu, and Zhu Cuiying wreaked havoc at Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s house, he was not at home. By the time he returned, Tong Tiehu had already arrived.


    Having such an embarrassment happen once was enough, he had no desire for a second time!


    After the elders in Qiao Family left, the remaining siblings and their wives nced at each other, stood up and walked towards the door one after another. Zhao Shufen didn¡¯t forget to give a chicken leg to Qiao Xiaobao before going.


    If not eaten now, it would all be cold when theye back.


    Seeing this, Wu Yinfeng quickly took two steamed buns, stuffed each with a few pieces of pork and gave it to her two sons. If there¡¯s food, why not eat it?


    So, the perfect family reunion dinner for a dozen or so people waspletely abandoned due to a few casual remarks by Sun Junyan. They all headed towards Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s house.


    Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s family of three was sitting in the courtyard having lunch. White steamed buns, brewed snail, and stewed pork with vermicelli, all tasted delicious. Suddenly the courtyard door was pushed open with a ¡°bang¡±.


    The courtyard main doors in the vige were generally left unlocked as long as someone was at home, just closed casually.


    All three of Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s family looked towards the door.


    A red-faced and panting Qiao Meipan barged in.


    She ran in a few steps to the small table, her gaze sweeping everything on the dining table quickly.


    White steamed buns, only the Vige Chief and Jiang family in the entire vige could afford to eat them every day. As for her household, aside from the days when Sun Junyan was back, they usually ate coarse steamed buns, with wheat husk scratching the throat!


    Brewed snail, she didn¡¯t know the name of this dish, but it looked oily and surely would be delicious. In the past, all Zhuang Luhe¡¯s cooking were boiled and salted haphazardly!


    And then thatrge pot of stewed pork with vermicelli, it looked way tastier than just fried noodle strips!


    Comparing her family¡¯s food to these dishes in front of her, Qiao Meipan became even angrier. She pointed harshly at Qiao Xiaomai and scolded, ¡°Just like your shameless mother, unfilial, lowly!¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai¡±¡­¡±


    They were eating just fine until this lunatic ran over, greatly affecting their appetite.


    She put down her chopsticks, stood up and dragged Qiao Meipan away; she didn¡¯t want the battlefield to be at the dining table. This lunatic¡¯s spit might fall on the food and that would make her feel sick.


    Last time Zhu Cuiying wanted to spit a thick phlegm at her. This disgusting act left a shadow on her, making her always notice the saliva of people in the old courtyard when they spoke.


    > (y v <) r


    Qiao Meipan was forcefully dragged away by Qiao XiaoMai and immediately began to make a racket, ¡°What are you doing?!¡±


    ¡°I should ask you, what are you doing? Suddenly ran over here to curse at someone, what did I ever do to you?¡± Qiao Xiaomai disregarded her struggles and pulled her out the door.


    If people are going to barge in without knocking, next time she¡¯ll definitely lock the door from the inside!


    After dragging Qiao Meipan outside of the house, she finally asked, ¡°What are you here for? Speak up, or else I¡¯m closing the door.¡±


    Qiao Meipan¡¯s face was even redder with anger from her rude actions. ¡°I¡¯m your aunt!¡±


    ¡°My father is your older brother too, so what? An unmarried woman like you running to your brother¡¯s house to make a fuss, don¡¯t you care about your reputation?¡±


    These words made Qiao Meipan so angry she felt like breathing fire, she really wanted to scratch that irritating face!


    Without this pretty face, she was curious how this wretched woman was going to seduce Tong Tiehu!

 Chapter 71 - 71: 71: So, This is the Tactic!

    Chapter 71 - 71: 71: So, This is the Tactic!


    Trantor: 549690339


    Qiao Meipan was irritated by the mention of ¡®reputation¡¯ for a reason. During


    New Year, the Sun Family had proposed a marriage alliance to the Tong Family on her behalf, only to be rejected by Tong Sang. This had be a thorn in her heart.


    And now, Qiao Xiaomai was involved with Tong Sang, even unting it in front of her.


    Yes, to Qiao Meipan, Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s words were mere showing off.


    Qiao Xiaomai, despite her terrible reputation, managed to get involved with Tong Sang, while she herself, having a good reputation, was rejected by him.


    This was tant boasting.


    Unbearable!


    Qiao Meipan, fiery eyes fixed on Qiao Xiaomai, wanted to destroy her face. This face, this damn face!


    In her rage, she instinctively raised her hand, her long nails aiming for Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s face, ¡°You slut! We¡¯ll see you seducing men now!¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai swiftly retreated and avoided Qiao Meipan¡¯s strike. She abandoned the n of closing the gate, and ran out past Qiao Meipan, ¡°Help! Help! My auntie¡¯s trying to ruin my face! Can someonee and sort this out?¡±


    If Qiao Meipan was discarding her reputation, Qiao Xiaomai would spread the news about this. She remembered that during the previous rumours about Zhuang Luhe¡¯s impiety, Qiao Meipan had a hand in it.


    It was mealtime and Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s shouts were loud. Consequently, folks from four or five houses came out with their bowls in their hands.


    Some of them cared for Qiao Xiaomai. The Yang Gun family, for instance.


    Some were there for the drama. Li Chunhua, for instance. She had missed thest debacle when Zhu Cuiying tried to stir up trouble at the Sun Family residence and Tong Tiehu ordered a ban on onlookers, which she regretted missing.


    ¡°What¡¯s going on?!¡± Yang Gun came out, saw Qiao Meipan¡¯s fierce chase of Qiao Xiaomai, and shouted towards the Qiao Family house, ¡°Dami, quickly go and get the Vige Chief!¡±


    Qiao Dami had already run out, and he gasped out an acknowledgement, hurrying towards the Tong Family¡¯s side.


    Tong Tiehu, after suppressing the Sun Family and Zhu Cuiying, was one of the most prominent figures in his mind!


    For any issues, they had to find Grandpa Tong!


    Seeing this, Qiao Meipan was further enraged, ¡°Shameless! You sly fox!¡±


    Running to Tong Sang for every trivial thing, no wonder this slut managed to hook up with Tong Sang! It infuriated her!


    ¡°What on earth have I done to warrant such malicious cursing and your attempt to ruin my face?¡± If Qiao Meipan stopped chasing, Qiao Xiaomai would stop running, standing her ground to confront Qiao Meipan.


    ¡°You seduced Tong Sang!¡±


    ¡°When did I seduce him? Don¡¯t use me of such scandalous rumors!¡± Qiao Xiaomai was exasperated.


    She knew Qiao Meipan was doing all this because of Tong Sang, but she truly didn¡¯t want to have anything to do with him!


    ¡°If you didn¡¯t seduce him, why would he keep helping you?¡± Remembering what the Sun Family said about the two returning from town together, and Tong Sang rushing after Qiao Xiaomai with his oxcart, she wished she could tear Qiao Xiaomai to shreds right then and there.


    Qiao Xiaomai rolled her eyes, ¡°You all came to sell me to the brothel, seize my house, and even framed me for stealing silver. If he wasn¡¯t going to help me, was he supposed to help you?¡±


    Qiao Meipan choked briefly, then her face turned an even deeper shade of red in anger, ¡°It¡¯s because you seduced him! You slut!¡±


    Unable to stand it any longer, Yang Gun intervened, ¡°Meipan, perhaps it¡¯s best if you forget about Tong Sang. You¡¯re not young anymore. Instead of wasting your time on him, you should be looking for other young men. Otherwise, you¡¯ll end up an old maid.¡±


    Qiao Meipan was sixteen that year. If she continued entangling herself with Tong Sang, she would indeed be an old maid..

 Chapter 72 - 72 They, the Qiao Family, are going to make a fortune!

    Chapter 72: They, the Qiao Family, are going to make a fortune!


    Trantor: 549690339


    Yang Gun¡¯s words struck a nerve with Qiao Meipan.


    Because she had a brother like Sun Junyan, she nned to find a schr with great potential to be a future official.


    The families of schrs she found were too poor for her liking, and the wealthier ones did not fancy her, thus her marriage was dyed as a result.


    One dayst year, she happened upon Tong Sang killing a wild boar with a bow and arrow while picking wild fruits on the mountain and had fallen in love at first sight,pletely disregarding all the schrs she had previously considered.


    Compared to those who were aiming to take part in the Imperial Examination, Tong Sang was merely a vige boy, hence she believed that based on her looks and with a brother like Sun Junyan, Tong Sang would undoubtedly agree.


    But!


    Tong Sang rejected her without a moment¡¯s hesitation!


    Even after the heartbreak, she did not lose hope and instead, became even more infatuated with Tong Sang.


    But now Yang Gun knowingly brought this up to provoke her, mocking her as an old spinster, her face flushed bright red as she turned to her abuser and retorted, ¡°Who do you think you are? Stay out of my business!¡±


    On hearing this, Yang Gun also lost her temper and shouted, ¡°Why don¡¯t you go find Tong Sang, what are you bothering Xiaomai for? If you use Xiaomai of seducing Tong Sang without evidence, it¡¯s nder, and you¡¯ll be beaten for it!¡±


    Initially, the vigers of Anping were unfamiliar with the term ¡®nder¡¯, but after Zhu Cuiying was beaten for false usations against Qiao Xiaomai, the term suddenly became a heavy, daunting word in their minds.


    And it wasmanding.


    Hearing this, Qiao Meipan couldn¡¯t help but seethe with anger, her teeth biting down hard on her lips in silence.


    She certainly did not want to give Qiao Xiaomai a reason to approach Tong Sang!


    She had also witnessed the miserable state of Zhu Cuiying being beaten in front of Tong Sang, a sight so disgraceful that she would rather die than experience.


    Seeing Qiao Meipan silent, Yang Gun sneered before turning to Qiao Xiaomai and called out, ¡°Xiaomai, let¡¯s go home for dinner, ignore her.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai shook her head, ¡°1 have to go bring Dami back.¡±


    There was no need for Tong Tiehu to deal with Qiao Meipan as she could be easily subdued.


    It was around this time that she heard Qiao Dami¡¯s call from behind, ¡°Sister!¡±


    As Qiao Xiaomai turned around, she saw Qiao Dami rushing towards her with both Sun Family and Qiao Qinghe following behind.


    They encountered the two on their way to the Tong family, both Sun family and Qiao Qinghe tried to stop him from going, hence, they returned.


    Qiao Xiaomai reached out to hold his little hand, looked up to Sun Family and Qiao Qinghe and asked, ¡°Grandpa, why did youe?¡±


    Deliberately ignoring the Sun Family.


    Qiao Qinghe¡¯s face showed signs of embarrassment, ¡°I came to call your aunt home.¡±


    ¡°Home! What about the tofu and cold jelly noodles!¡± Sun Family yelled out immediately.


    The issue with Qiao Meipan was only a side matter, the main goal was the recipe for Silver Mountain spine!


    ¡°Get back home!¡± Qiao Qinghe angrily demanded, reaching out to pull her.


    ¡°I¡¯m not going back! Changsun, this unfilial son, stays at home all day enjoying his life without a thought of respecting us! I¡¯ve wasted all these years caring for him!¡± Sun Family nimbly dodged Qiao Qinghe¡¯s outreach, scurried towards the gate of Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s house.


    ¡°Changsun,e out!¡± she shouted full of valor while running.


    Along the way, she had figured out a way to make hundreds or even thousands of taels a day, considering the daily returns of tofu, bean curd, and Silver Mountain. With such earning potential, she couldn¡¯t care about Tong Sang any longer!


    Against the backdrop of mountains of gold and silver, Qiao Meipan¡¯s various negative emotions surfaced due to Tong Sang were trivial!


    Their Qiao Family was on the verge of making a fortune!

 Chapter 73 - 73 Ransacking the Cabinet

    Chapter 73: Ransacking the Cab


    Trantor: 549690339


    Qiao Changshun was already standing at the door. Upon hearing Sun Family¡¯s words, he looked at Qiao Xiaomai.


    The head of the Qiao Family was now Qiao Xiaomai, not him.


    Qiao Xiaomai turned to Qiao Changshun directly, ¡°Grandpa, what does grandma mean by this?¡±


    Not wanting to meet Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s clear gaze, Qiao Qinghe turned his head to re at Sun Family, ¡°Old woman, get back here!¡±


    Acting bold because of Sun Junyan¡¯s support today, she dismissed his words, stormed into Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s house like a gust of wind, ¡°We need to clear things up today about the cold jelly noodles & tofu and bean curd! Having a feast without me, the mother, you unfilial son!¡±


    As she passed Qiao Changshun, she didn¡¯t forget to extend her hand and poke him hard.


    Due to hisme right leg, Qiao Changshun was unsteady. Under her forceful poke, he staggered a few steps to the side, almost falling over.


    Seeing this, Sun Family scoffed, stormed into the courtyard.


    She nced at the dining table, muttering under her breath, but never stopping her movement. Just like in the past, she walked straight into the hall, opened up Qiao Changshun¡¯s bedroom door and started rummaging through.


    When Qiao Changshun¡¯s family used to live in the thatched hut, she¡¯s done this quite often.


    To ensure that Qiao Changshun¡¯s family remained poor and unable to eat their fill was a delicate operation for her. She needed to urately assess exactly how much money and grain this family possessed.


    Upon opening the box kept at the foot of the bed, she only found a few pieces of clothing and not a single cent.


    Still not giving up, she squatted down to check under the bed, beneath which there were only shoes owned by Qiao Changshun and Qiao Dami -nothing else.


    Her muttering grew louder. Leaving Qiao Changshun¡¯s room, she stormed into Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s room.


    Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s room was same as Qiao Changshun¡¯s ¨C a table, a bed, a box for clothes and nothing else. In order to pay for Qiao Changshun¡¯s medical treatment, they had sold everything else they could.


    The freshly-tiled house looked new from the outside, but it was actually very simple inside.


    Even after turning Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s room upside down, she didn¡¯t find a single cent.


    Just as she was about to examine the bricks under the bed, one by one, to see if any of them was loose, Qiao Qinghe entered.


    Seeing all the clothes and beddings thrown onto the floor, he felt dizzy from anger.


    ¡°Old woman,e out! If you don¡¯t, I¡¯m going to call for the vige chief!¡± He took a deep breath and leaned against the wall for support.


    Sun Family, about to crawl under the bed,pletely ignored his threat.


    She was absolutely sure that Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s family had a fortune hidden somewhere, but she didn¡¯t find a single cooper coin, so where could Qiao Xiaomai have hidden all the silver!


    Qiao Qinghe watched her undignified behavior, nearly choking on his anger. Gasping for air, he staggered outside, ¡°Xiaomai, Xiaomai! Quickly, call for the vige chief, hurry!¡±


    He couldn¡¯t control Sun Family anymore, he needed Tong Tiehu to intervene.


    Qiao Xiaomai and Qiao Dami were standing next to Qiao Changshun, supporting him from each side. Upon hearing this, Qiao Xiaomai looked towards Qiao Dami, who immediately said, ¡°1 will go!¡± and started running towards the vige chief¡¯s direction.


    The scene of Sun Family storming into their rooms was all too familiar, they knew what was happening inside.


    Qiao Changshun anxiously looked at Qiao Xiaomai. In the past, no matter where Zhuang Luhe hid the silver, Sun Family would always find it.


    Qiao Xiaomai gave him a reassuring look.


    All her possessions were in her space. Sun Family wouldn¡¯t even be able toy her eyes on a single copper coin..

 Chapter 74 - 74: Lack of Education is Truly Terrifying

    Chapter 74: Lack of Education is Truly Terrifying


    Trantor: 549690339


    But, letting the Sun family brazenly rampage through her home like this is inexcusable.


    She looked at the spectators by the door and said, ¡°Dami has already gone to fetch the vige chief, please stay and testify for meter.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, we all saw everything.¡± Yang Gun said.


    She had seen this scene many times as a neighbor in the past, but at that time, no one from Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s family fought back. If the victims didn¡¯t resist, then as a neighbor, she couldn¡¯t say much either.


    But now Qiao Xiaomai has changed!


    Looking at Qiao Xiaomai, she unconsciously felt proud, after suffering for so many years, finally she could fight back!


    Li Guihua also chimed in, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, don¡¯t worry, we¡¯re all neighbors here, we will definitely help you.¡±


    We must help. She will regret missing such a spectacle if she doesn¡¯t stay as a witness and Tong Tiehu clears the scene.


    Apart from them, others were nodding their heads too. The Sun family¡¯s actions were too much; even as elders, they shouldn¡¯t have made such a mess in the younger generation¡¯s house.


    Qiao Meipan, standing to the side, looked at Qiao Xiaomai like this, stomped her foot in frustration, and scuttled back into the room.


    Let Tong Sang¡¯s case be put aside for now; let¡¯s find Golden Mountain and Yin Mountain first!


    With the same thought in mind, Sun¡¯s family and Qiao Meipan inspected every brick in the three tile houses without finding anything loose. Then they rushed into the kitchen, which was also built with green bricks, but not as grand as the three halls.


    Sun¡¯s family and Qiao Meipan opened all the flour jars and pottery jars. If it had been before, they would¡¯ve certainly taken all the food they found, but now, looking for Golden Mountain and Yin Mountain, they have no time to bother about these things.


    Even the stove was searched, but not a single copper coin was found, and the two of them went out to the courtyard again.


    The tofu shed, vegetable plot, the toilet, the pigpen, and the chicken coop, the mother and daughter pair, turned Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s home upside down.


    They sweated profusely yet didn¡¯t find a single copper coin.


    At the door, a crowd of people looked at them with scorn, like watching a monkey performing tricks.


    What a distasteful sight.


    Sun¡¯s family couldn¡¯t care less about how people around them viewed her. She watched Qiao Xiaomai with bloodshot eyes and demanded, ¡°Where did you hide the silver!¡±


    ¡°What silver?¡± Qiao Xiaomai asked casually.


    ¡°Don¡¯t y dumb! Xiaowu told me everything. You sell a thousand jelly noodles a day, making ten taels a day! And your tofu and bean curd, they earn a few hundred taels every day!¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai¡±.. ¡±


    People in the crowd gasped, ¡°Oh my God!¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai twitched her mouth, feeling drained. Reasoning with such a stupid person was a real struggle.


    Such an imagination, it¡¯s terrifying to be uneducated.


    Rolling her eyes, she exined, ¡°The cold jelly noodles were recipe that 1 sold. Shopkeeper He bought the recipe from me for thirty taels, now how much Extreme Taste Inn makes is not rted to me at all.¡±


    ¡°As for tofu and bean curd, with a stone mill this size, I can only make a few dozen jin a day, just enough to earn a living. I sell to the Extreme Taste Inn at a fixed price, how much they sell for has nothing to do with me.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t just figure out how much my family earns from hearsay. If 1 really make that much, first of all, I would hire people to guard the door.. Anyone who dares to break into my house, we¡¯ll throw them right out!¡±

 Chapter 75 - 75: Hypocrite

    Chapter 75: Hypocrite


    Trantor: 549690339


    Anger and scorn filled Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s words, which the spectators all clearly observed.


    But this didn¡¯t include the Sun family.


    The recipe that earns ten taels of silver a day was sold by Qiao Xiaomai for only thirty taels. This upset her more than being sliced flesh from the bone. ¡°You prodigal!¡± she cried.


    She jumped up and rushed towards Qiao Xiaomai, determined to beat her until she barely had a breath left. Anything less wouldn¡¯t satisfy her rage!


    Qiao Xiaomai nced at the Sun family¡¯s woman, face grimy from scouring beneath the bed, the hearth, and the chicken coop, and scoffed silently, ¡°What does it matter to you how much silver 1 sell it for? 1 came up with the recipe!¡±


    As she said this, she signaled to the onlookers to make way for her to leave.


    She couldn¡¯ty a hand on the Sun family¡¯s woman, but she didn¡¯t want to just stand there and take a beating, either. Her only option was to run.


    Upon hearing Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s words, the woman from Sun family was even more furious. ¡°You little bitch, as long as your surname is Qiao, everything you have belongs to the Qiao Family. How dare you squander our silver! 1¡¯11 beat you to death, you spend-thrift!¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai silently cursed in her heart and kept moving.


    ¡°Bitch, stop right there!¡± the Sun family woman chased relentlessly.


    Just as Qiao Xiaomai was about to bolt towards the Tong family¡¯s ce, she saw a group from the Qiao family appear at the corner of her street.


    At the front, walking briskly, were Sun Junyan and Qiao Changfu, looking anxious.


    Qiao Xiaomai:


    These people have all been summoned!


    At this moment, Sun Junyan also spotted Qiao Xiaomai and hastened his steps. ¡°Xiaomai!¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai took a deep breath and stopped moving.


    In the original owner¡¯s memory, Sun Junyan was a gentleman. However, after her careful observation, she discovered that the word ¡®fake¡¯ needed to be added before ¡®gentleman¡¯.


    The Sun family woman was a true viin, ruthless, and easily seen through.


    But Sun Junyan was subtly siphoning from behind her, making her do all the dirty work while he yed the good guy.


    However, a fake gentleman had one advantage. Like now, he would certainly stop the Sun family woman from going berserk.


    Her spection was correct. When Sun Junyan saw the Sun family woman, he quickened his pace and tried to calm her down. ¡°Mother, stop!¡±


    His words were more effective than those of Qiao Qinghe. The aggressive Sun family woman stopped when she heard his voice. She was still fuming, gruffly saying, ¡°Xiaowu, this little bitch just sold her cold jelly noodle recipe to Ji Wei Ju for thirty taels!¡±


    A recipe which could earn ten taels a day was sold by this bitch for only thirty!


    Sun Junyan was stunned.


    The people from the Qiao family behind him were also stunned.


    Then, they all showed a pained expression. The golden mountain of silver, just like that, was gone?


    Sun Junyan quickly snapped out of it. His brow furrowed as he looked at Qiao Xiaomai. ¡°Xiaomai, you should have discussed this with your grandparents first.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomaiughed coldly. ¡°My grandmother wants to sell me to the brothel, my aunt wants to take over my house, and Shopkeeper He bought my recipe when I had nowhere to turn. Discuss? Should I discuss several dozens of taels of silver with you?¡±


    ¡°Uncle Wu, 1 would be really stupid if I discussed things with them.¡±


    Sun Junyan¡¯s brows furrowed deeper upon hearing this. ¡°When did this happen?¡±


    ¡°Ask Grandmother.¡± Qiao Xiaomai pointed her chin toward the Sun family woman.


    The Sun family woman wanted to spring up and p her again.. ¡°You wench, quit talking nonsense and go get the silver back from Ji Wei Ju! I won¡¯t let it end like this if that shopkeeper dares to swindle people like this!¡±

 Chapter 76 - 76: Xiaomai, You’ve Grown Up

    Chapter 76: Xiaomai, You¡¯ve Grown Up


    Trantor: 549690339


    Sun Family initially intended to find their personal gold and silver mines and then severely beat Qiao Xiaomai.


    Now that their gold and silver mines are gone, they no longer have the inclination to hit Qiao Xiaomai.


    The shopkeeper of that particr taste house must¡¯ve fooled Qiao Xiaomai.


    The urgent priority is to recover that silver!


    Qiao Xiaomai¡±¡­¡±


    She didn¡¯t believe the part about earning ten taels a day.


    Besides, even if it were true, what of it?


    At the time, Shopkeeper He resolved her family¡¯s dilemma of not even daring to eat a filling meal, turning her from absolute poverty, her family, with not even a penny to their name, rapidly into a moderately wealthy unit¡ªa family with dozens of taels of silver in savings.


    She was very content.


    The method of making cold jelly noodles wasn¡¯t her original innovation; she was merely making money off the wisdom of her predecessors. The low initial offer was on her for underestimating the allure of those noodles, she didn¡¯t me Shopkeeper He.


    Now Sun Family wants to retrieve the silver she allegedly duped from them¡ªthese people¡­


    Are so foolish, she doesn¡¯t even feel like cursing them.


    ¡°My things, my rules, you all stop wagging your fingers here. Dami has already gone to call the Vige Chief. We¡¯ll discuss everything when the Vige Chief is here.¡±


    In this state, Sun Family was even more seething and wanted to rush up and hit her, ¡°You little harlot, as long as yourst name is Qiao, you¡¯re part of the Qiao Family!¡±


    Always using Tong Tiehu to override others, she detested Sun Family¡¯s approach.


    ¡°Mom, stop!¡± Sun Junyan hurriedly spoke up to prevent Sun Family¡¯s actions, ¡°We can discuss this inside the Courtyard.¡±


    He was well-versed in the ¡°Daqi Law¡±, Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s family has already split and be an independent unit. The head of the household is Qiao Changshun. Although Sun Family is Qiao Changshun¡¯s elder, her previous words wereplete nonsense.


    ¡°We don¡¯t need to go inside. We can discuss this out here, let everyone make their own judgment.¡± Qiao Xiaomai interrupted Sun Family, ¡°Just now, my grandmother and younger aunt ransacked my house to look for the silver, they want to forcibly take our property, and that disorderly scene in the courtyard is proof of it.¡±


    ¡°This matter, it¡¯s up to the Vige Chief to decide. He is familiar with the ¡°Daqi Law¡±, and he will surely ensure justice for us.¡±


    These past few days, she has also taken the time to get through the ¡°Daqi Law¡±. Sun Family and Qiao Meipan¡¯s actions can be strictly construed as trespassing on private property and seizing others¡¯ possessions, and these are not problems that can be settled with a mere beating.


    Upon hearing these words, there was a sh of surprise in Sun Junyan¡¯s eyes.


    He restrained Sun Family with a look, who was about to lose her temper again. His gaze became sharper, ¡°Xiaomai, your grandmother was just a little hasty because you didn¡¯t realize the mistake you were making. After all, with so much silver going missing, she must have been both furious and anxious.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai raised her eyebrows. Look at how eloquent this guy is¡ªmanaging to distort Sun Family¡¯s thuggish behavior into concern for her.


    ¡°Uncle Wu, wait for the Vige Chief to arrive.¡± She looked at Sun Junyan, her lips curling into a chilly, humorless smile.


    Compared to before, Xiaomai had changed so much it was as if she had be a different person, and that made the surprised look in Sun Junyan¡¯s eyes even brighter.


    However.


    He remarked, ¡°The ¡®Daqi Law¡¯ states that one cannot sue their grandparents.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not suing. I¡¯m just waiting for Grandpa Tong to settle this. All the decisions will be up to him.¡± Qiao Xiaomai denied the im, her smile more sincere, ¡°1 didn¡¯t even mention the word ¡®sue¡¯. Uncle Wu, please don¡¯t construe things ording to your whims because you can read. I¡¯m just a country girl¡ªI can¡¯t shoulder such grave usations.¡±


    Sun Junyan squinted, ¡°Xiaomai, you¡¯ve really grown up.¡±


    ¡°Or should I just wait for you all to suck me dry little by little?¡± Qiao Xiaomai asked, with a sly grin..

 Chapter 77 - 77: Do You Really Think I’m Stupid?

    Chapter 77: Do You Really Think I¡¯m Stupid?


    Trantor: 549690339


    ¡°Xiaomai, what do you mean by that?¡± The expression on Sun Junyan¡¯s face didn¡¯t change.


    ¡°As a well-read man like Uncle Five, you should be able to understand my meaning.¡±


    ¡°Are you using your grandmother of abusing you?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t dare to use the word ¡¯use¡¯. Uncle Five truly is a schr, every sentence is putting abel on this country girl.¡± Qiao Xiaomaiughed.


    Sun Junyan¡¯s furrowed brow rxed, his gaze turned to Qiao Changshun standing at the door, a faint smile appeared on his face, ¡°Big Brother, are you too going to listen to Xiaomai¡¯s wishes and report our mother to the vige chief?¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s words were impervious to oil and salt, he could only shift his attention to Qiao Changshun.


    Qiao Changshun rubbed his hands, ufortably stating, ¡°Cold jelly noodles, tofu and bean curd are all Xiaomai¡¯s ideas, she decides on this matter.¡±


    Hearing up to this point, Mrs. Sun couldn¡¯t hold it back any longer, ¡°You wretched girl, you think it¡¯s reasonable to wholesale our recipe?!¡±


    The pressing matter now is to find shopkeeper He and get back the silver he swindled, why are they wasting time arguing about this!


    ¡°Exactly, forget about reporting or not reporting, the most important thing is to get the silver back!¡± Qiao Changfu spoke up.


    Mrs. Sun and their purpose ofing was to find Golden Mountain and Silver Mountain, this was straying too far from the main topic, wasn¡¯t it?


    ¡°It¡¯s my recipe, even if I wholesale it, it¡¯s my business. Besides, I¡¯ve already made a written agreement with He Zhanggui. What exactly are all of you trying to achieve bying here with such aggressive attitudes? Do you want to take the silver I made from selling the recipe, or do you want to swallow my tofu business?¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai looked at the group of people, a cold smile hanging on her lips.


    ¡°What nonsense are you talking about!¡± His thoughts being stabbed, Qiao Changfu started to argue back, his excuse was righteous and stern, ¡°This is a big issue, your grandparents should be informed. This could have been a great opportunity to improve our family¡¯s situation if it hadn¡¯t been wholesaled by you!¡±


    ¡°Changshun, Xiaomai is an ignorant child, are you also ignorant! This is simply nonsense!¡±


    The word ¡®nonsense¡¯ was used, the originally disdainful onlookers instantly had a new thought.


    In the vige, the Tong family slowly developed by selling vinegar, the Jiang family made a fortune from selling pork, if Qiao Xiaomai didn¡¯t wholesale her recipe but made steady profits, the Qiao Family could have been the third prosperous family in the vige.


    Wholesaling a recipe that could influence the fate of a family, such action can indeed be described as nonsense.


    Qiao Changshun rubbed his hands again, his expression more troubled, ¡°If this matter were informed to you, how many copper coins would Xiaomai get? You all even thought about selling Xiaomai to a brothel¡­¡±


    Initially, he had no feelings about this matter, but this thought suddenly made him feel that his worries were correct.


    If they asked for the recipe of cold jelly noodles and tofu, would these people directly sell Qiao Xiaomai quietly and monopolize this recipe?


    At these words, Mrs. Sun immediately jumped up, ¡°Xiaomai is my granddaughter, how could I possibly sell her to a brothel!¡±


    Qiao Changshun stayed silent, lowering his head.


    Qiao Xiaomai startedughing, ¡°Grandma, selling me to the brothel was what you said yourself, don¡¯t deny it, a lot of people heard it, if I really take out the recipe, you would sell me even faster.¡±


    ¡°The recipe is my idea, how 1 choose to use it is my business. After years of oppression from all of you, none of you have the right to use me now.¡±


    ¡°When my family was poor, you all came to suck us dry, now that my family can make some money, youe talking about family, do you think we¡¯re stupid?¡±

 Chapter 78 - 78: Did You Read Your Books into a Dog’s Stomach?

    Chapter 78: Did You Read Your Books into a Dog¡¯s Stomach?


    Trantor: 549690339


    ¡°Xiaomai is not stupid, what she did is not wrong at all.¡± A voice, old yet dignified, rang out, drawing everyone¡¯s attention.


    It was Tong Tiehu.


    Following him was Tong Sang, who was cradling Qiao Dami.


    Qiao Dami had described the situation as very serious, so the three of them had rushed over. Tong Tiehu¡¯s breath was somewhat uneven, while Tong Sang appeared unaffected.


    Taking a deep breath, Tong Tiehu regained hisposure, ced his hands behind his back, and walked a few steps toward Sun Junyan.


    His stern eyes surveyed Sun Junyan before he coldly asked, ¡°Your whole family has turned up. Is it silver you¡¯re after, or to steal someone¡¯s tofu business?¡±


    Put on the spot, Sun Junyan quickly responded, ¡°Uncle Tong, Junyan wouldn¡¯t dare to.¡±


    ¡°Wouldn¡¯t dare?¡± Tong Tiehu chuckled coldly. His gaze shifted from Sun Junyan to the crowd, ¡°Tell us what happened.¡±


    Yang Gun sighed and quickly recounted the events.


    She waspletely unbiased, uratelyying out what had happened.


    With his grim face, Tong Tiehu appeared intimidating. The Sun Family recalled their previous encounter, and as Yang Gun finished speaking, the sharp gaze from Tiehu forced the insults on the lips of the Sun family back down their throats.


    By now, Tong Tiehu was standing at Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s front door. He nced into the courtyard, then turned to the Sun Family, ¡°You and your daughter broke into a civilian¡¯s home in an attempt to seize their property. There is evidence and witnesses for this grave matter, it¡¯s beyond my control as the vige chief.¡±


    ¡°Sang, lead Xiaomai¡¯s donkey out and hitch it to the cart.¡± He then pointed out a few women in the crowd, ¡°Arrest the Sun Family and Qiao Meipan. We¡¯re going to see the county magistrate.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Tong Sang, holding Qiao Dami, walked towards Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s house.


    The women Tong Tiehu called out stepped forward to apprehend the Sun Family and Qiao Meipan.


    The Sun Family and Qiao Meipan started screaming.


    The always silent Qiao Qinghe didn¡¯t utter a word but lowered his head, his teeth clenched.


    The Qiao brothers were left dumbfounded. Tong Tiehu¡¯s handling of the matter was decidedly straightforward. They instinctively looked to Sun Junyan for guidance.


    Sun Junyan frowned, took a few steps forward, and said, ¡°Uncle Tong, the Daqi Laws stipte that younger generations should not curse or tattle on their grandparents. Otherwise, it¡¯s considered unfilial. You wouldn¡¯t want Xiaomai and my second brother to bear such a reputation, would you?¡±


    Tong Tiehu looked at him without expression, ¡°Report? Who said Changsun and Xiaomai are going to use the Sun Family?¡±


    ¡°Dami invited you here, going to see the county magistrate, we need someone to file thewsuit, no?¡±


    ¡°As the vige chief who happened toe across this situation, I am obliged to speak up for Changsun¡¯s family. 1 am the intiff. Changsun and Xiaomai don¡¯t need to show up.¡± Tong Tiehu stared at Sun Junyan, his stern face unyielding.


    ¡°You¡¯ve been educated, yet look at your actions. You see money and even lead your family to create trouble at your own brother¡¯s house. Did you feed all your education to the dogs?!¡±


    At this, Sun Junyan could no longer maintain hisposure. His face turned beet-red.


    Never in his life had he been reprimanded so harshly.


    This statement was a great loss to his dignity!

 Chapter 79 - 79: A Serious Slap in the Face

    Chapter 79: A Serious p in the Face


    Trantor: 549690339


    ¡°Uncle Tong, your words are too harsh!¡± Sun Junyan exined with a flushed face, ¡°1 just came back from the academy today and brought home some cold fried jelly and fried noodle strips. I identally found out that these two foods may be rted to Xiaomai. Meipan and my mother are a bit impulsive, so¡­¡±


    ¡°Enough of your useless chatter.¡± Tong Tiehu brutally interrupted him, his tone filled with undisguised mockery, ¡°All 1 see is how your Qiao family aggressively came to seize Changsun¡¯s property!¡±


    ¡°Our vige has only a mere schr, and I originally had high hopes for you. Who knew your character would be so uneptable! Youpletely twisted tant robbery into concern for Xiaomai. Do you really think you¡¯re smarter than others because you¡¯ve read a few more books?¡±


    ¡°So, everyone else here is a fool except for you?¡±


    These two rhetorical questions, like two ps, harshly struck Sun Junyan¡¯s face, turning him pale.


    And to call him of all people, of poor character!


    These four words are too heavy for a schr to bear. He opened his mouth, wanting to argue, ¡°Uncle Tong¡­¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t tell me you¡¯re unaware that your mother has been abusing your second brother and his wife all these years?!¡± Tong Tiehu interrupted his exnation again, rudely questioning back, his sharp gaze pinned on him, making him feel terribly ufortable.


    ¡°I¡­¡± Sun Junyan opened his mouth, but all the words in his chest were stifled under Tong Tiehu¡¯s piercing gaze, unable to voice them.


    Although those eyes were old, they were not murky, his words should reallye out.


    The humiliation he would face if he did, would be even more severe.


    The two rhetorical questions just now were already ps in the face, anything harsher would be like being beaten with a shoe¡­


    Embarrassed in front of so many people, he was unable to defend himself.


    Although he was a schr and respected by the vigers, he was just a student, a young student who had just obtained the qualification for the Imperial Examination. Tong Tiehu, though a low-ranking official in Daqi, was officially registered in the government office andpletely outranked him.


    How could this be¡­


    Tong Tiehu never interfered with Qiao family matters before!


    He clenched his fist in secret, dropped his eyes, take a deep breath, and said, ¡°Uncle Tong, my second brother is my mother¡¯s own son after all, she truly loves him.¡±


    ¡°Stop beating around the bush! Just tell me if you knew it or not!¡± Tong Tiehu ignored his nonsense, demanding a clear answer.


    Sun Junyan took another deep breath and squeezed a few words out of his mouth reluctantly, ¡°I tried to dissuade her.¡±


    ¡°Huh¡ª ¡± Tong Tiehu sneered, his face and words filled with even deeper


    ridicule, ¡°Such persuasion as just now, twisting property seizure into loving care?¡±


    Sun Junyan¡¯s face turned from pale to flushed, ¡°Uncle Tong, my mother really loves my second brother¡­¡±


    As soon as he said this, he heardughter.


    Usually, people wouldn¡¯t dare tough at him. His status as a schr was enough tomand the respect of most people in Anping Vige. Moreover, his extraordinary temperament ensured that apart from the Tong family, everyone else was always polite to him.


    He subconsciously looked towards the source of theughter.


    It was Qiao Xiaomai.


    This unexpectedly changed niece,pletely unexpected niece.


    Qiao Xiaomai saw him looking over, chuckled, and asked in return, ¡°Both Grandma and Uncle Five say that they love my dad, can 1 ask for some specifics about how you love him?¡±

 Chapter 80 - 80: She Has a Special Way of Showing Affection

    Chapter 80: She Has a Special Way of Showing Affection


    Trantor: 549690339


    Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s questioning made several people in the room instantly ufortable.


    Unaware, Qiao Xiaomai continued, ¡°I really am curious about this. You all seem like you could chew my dad down to bones, so why do you keep proiming your deep love for him?¡±


    ¡°What exactly have you done to show your love for my father?¡±


    Her earnest questioning made a number of people in the room even more ufortable.


    Tong Tiehu, however, chuckled and kindly answered her question, ¡°It¡¯s a long story.¡±


    ¡°Then cut it short, Grandpa Tong.¡± Qiao Xiaomai immediately turned to him, her peach blossom eyes glinting with anticipation.


    ¡°Back then, your third uncle had a crush on your mother, but she had eyes only for your father. Your third uncle nned to elope with her, but she refused, causing quite a scene. Eventually, your grandmother stepped in and betrothed your mother to your father.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s one of the specific instances of your grandmother¡¯s supposed love for your father.¡±


    ¡°The second one is that she promised that when your fifth uncle bes an official in the future, he¡¯ll provide a major promotion for your father.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai¡±¡­¡±


    The first issue¡­ her eyes instinctively moved to Qiao Changshun.


    Qiao Changshun leaned against the doorframe, his head hung low, not saying a word.


    She couldn¡¯t help but nce at Qiao Chang¡¯an and Zhao Shufen as well.


    Qiao Chang¡¯an looked embarrassed, while Zhao Shufen was expressionless.


    ¡®So these people had such melodramatic pasts,¡¯ she thought to herself.


    As for the second matter, it¡¯s justughable. Dreaming of getting promoted even before passing the Imperial Examination¡ªanyone who believes Sun Family¡¯s usual behavior would fall for it must be a fool.


    ¡°Uncle Tong, it¡¯s all in the past, why bring it up again?¡± Qiao Chang¡¯an couldn¡¯t help butin.


    ¡°Ashamed now, are you?¡± retorted Tong Tiehu coldly, ¡°You all had no shame when you came here stirring up trouble.¡±


    Qiao Chang¡¯an blushed and took a step back, falling silent amidst the crowd from the Qiao family.


    Tong Tiehu not even sparing Sun Junyan, he could only swallow his insult.


    Seeing this, Qiao Xiaomai turned to Sun Junyan, ¡°Fifth uncle, if grandma really loved my dad, she should have treated him like she treats you, providing for his meals, clothing, and education like she was ready to give her heart and soul. Talking about how much grandma loved my dad, you really take us all for fools, huh?¡±


    Sun Junyan took a deep breath, ¡°Xiaomai, I think there must be some misunderstandings.¡±


    ¡°Still resisting even now?¡± Tong Tiehu scoffed, pointing behind him.


    By then, Tong Sang had already harnessed the donkey cart, and several women had tied up Sun Family and Qiao Meipan, even gagging their mouths.


    ¡°I thought you had some sense,¡± Tong Tiehu shook his head as he talked, clearly disappointed, ¡°You¡¯re taking advantage of your educated status to oppress your second older brother, treating your own family like they¡¯re beneath you. If someone like you were to be an official, who knows what you might do.¡±


    At these words, Sun Junyan shuddered.


    For him, who¡¯s ambitious to be an official, these words were too heavy!


    It was like a curse!


    ¡°Uncle Tong, I¡­¡±


    ¡°No need for anymore exnation, I don¡¯t want to hear it.¡± Tong Tiehu ordered the women to throw Sun Family and Qiao Meipan onto the donkey cart, ¡°Sang, let¡¯s go to the County Town.¡±


    With that, he went to the donkey cart, preparing to get in.


    Seeing this, Qiao Xiaomai couldn¡¯t help but apud for Tong Tiehu, his efficiency at handling matters was impressive!

 Chapter 81 - 81: Forget It

    Chapter 81: Forget It


    Trantor: 549690339


    ¡°Wait a minute!¡± Seeing Tong Tiehu about to get on the donkey cart, Sun Junyan, whose face was alternating between green and white, spoke up, ¡°Second brother, are you going to just stand by and watch Uncle Tong take mother away? She is your birth mother, who brought you up with toil and suffering. Is this how you repay her?¡±


    Despite being publicly ridiculed by Tong Tiehu, he was not too embarrassed to stop thinking quickly.


    This was not the time to quibble over details ¨C Sun family and Qiao Meipan absolutely could not be taken to the County Government Office.


    Absolutely not.


    He turned his fiery gaze to Qiao Changshun, ¡°Second brother, mother was momentarily confused, there¡¯s no need to be so ruthless.¡±


    Although Qiao Changshun still kept his head down, his expression seemed to soften.


    While he was angry with the Sun family, he had never thought about sending them to jail for punishment.


    He rubbed his hands together, raised his awkward looking face towards Tong Tiehu, but avoided meeting his gaze. ¡°Uncle Tong, let¡¯s just¡­ let it go, shall we?¡±


    Just a fright, to make the Sun family think twice next time. That would be enough¡­


    Seeing this, Qiao Xiaomai let out a silent sigh in her heart. She knew Qiao Changshun would give in.


    Tong Tiehu, who was about to mount the donkey cart, paused. He pointed towards the Qiao family¡¯s messy courtyard. ¡°Just let it go? Aren¡¯t you afraid of a repeat?¡±


    ¡°She is, after all, my mother¡­¡± Tong Tiehu¡¯s voice carried no hint of joy or anger. Qiao Changshun, dared not gauge his reaction, and lower his head again.


    Qiao Dami had invited Tong Tiehu over, but now, when Tong Tiehu was ready to carry out justice, Qiao Dami was having second thoughts.


    He felt embarrassed, but he really couldn¡¯t bear to watch members of the Sun family being taken away.


    ¡°Uncle Tong, let¡¯s just let it go. We have already caused you much trouble today.¡±


    Tong Tiehu said nothing and turned towards Qiao Xiaomai, whose face was simrly emotionless. ¡°Xiaomai girl, what do you think?¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai sighed inwardly again. With a troubled look on her face, she replied, ¡°Uncle Tong, although my grandmother would happily sell me to a brothel and take over my house, and even presently ransacked my home looking for money, she is, after all, my grandmother.¡±


    ¡°Because she is my elder, she can do as she pleases, but my father and I can¡¯t stoop to her level. Our family cares about our reputation and we are always grateful for her bringing us up.¡±


    ¡°As long as she promises not to steal from our home and our tofu business in the future, then¡­ let¡¯s just let it go.¡±


    In ancient times, people had to restrain themselves. To retaliate more harshly, unless done behind closed doors, it wouldn¡¯t be fitting for such a situation. She couldn¡¯t afford to sever rtions.


    However, after she stated her condition, a smile passed through the eyes of Tong Sang, who was holding the donkey.


    He clearly observed her unwillingness and reluctance in her own eyes. Recounting her long list of grievances so clearly, she really was a smart girl.


    Sun family never restrained from spreading rumors about Zhuang Luhe. If her words were retold enough to spread throughout the vige, then this small act of revenge would be achieved.


    That was exactly what Qiao Xiaomai had in mind.


    Values of filial piety could hold people down. She had to swallow this humiliation for now.


    But in the future, she would definitely im it back.


    ¡°Thank you, Grandpa Tong and Tong San foring to stand up for my family¡¯s rights. However, 1 think my grandmother and aunt have realized their mistakes now. Please, let them go¡­¡±


    ¡°This is your family matter. Since you and your father have spoken so, let¡¯s draw a line under this matter.¡± Saying this, Tong Tiehu took a few steps back..

 Chapter 82 - 82: She Won’t Spend This Fifty Cents

    Chapter 82: She Won¡¯t Spend This Fifty Cents


    Trantor: 549690339


    Sun Family¡¯s woman and Qiao Meipan suddenly struggled more violently, writhing back and forth on the Donkey Cart like two worms.


    Upon seeing this, Sun Junyan, too, disregarded his verbal dispute with Qiao Xiaomai, hastily took a few steps, and untied the ropes for them.


    The Sun Family¡¯s woman and Qiao Meipan, having gained their freedom, dared not to wail any longer. No matter how disheveled their hair and clothes were, they swiftly got off the Donkey Cart and jogged towards the crowd of the Qiao family.


    It was terrifying, too terrifying!


    They were merely ordinarymon folks. When had they ever been treated like this? Being so close to the Yamen, it was too terrifying!


    The overbearing authority of Tong Tiehu was terrifying!


    Any considerations for face or pride, at this moment, they couldn¡¯t recall any of it, they even forgot their anger and annoyance. The only thought in their minds was to hide!


    To hide far away!


    ¡°Stop.¡± Tong Tiehu said coldly.


    The footsteps of the two women immediately froze.


    ¡°After making a mess in someone else¡¯s Courtyard, you thought you could just leave?¡±


    ¡°No, no, no, I¡¯ll clean it up myself, thank you for your kindness, Master Tong.¡± Qiao Xiaomai quickly interjected. If these twoy their hands on it, she would worry they¡¯d make her family¡¯s Courtyard dirtier.


    ¡°Well, we can¡¯t simply let them off cheaply,¡± Tong Tiehu furrowed.


    ¡°Let it be, let it be, they are my elders,¡± Qiao Xiaomai shook her head.


    Tong Tiehu nced at her, ¡°Are you really going to let it go?¡±


    ¡°Yes, I won¡¯t hold it against them. My dad and I are both filial people.¡±


    Tong Tiehu sighed deeply, and turned to Qiao Qinghe, who had been standing quietly at the gate, ¡°Qinghe, as the head of the household, if you don¡¯t toughen up, your entire family will fall into disarray.¡±


    Upon hearing these words, Qiao Qinghe felt shame, ¡°Yes.¡±


    Tong Tiehu shook his head, and gestured for the onlooking crowd to disperse, ¡°Let¡¯s disperse, the show¡¯s over, but you should all have a clear understanding now, right?¡±


    ¡°Yes, yes, yes.¡± Yang Gun promptly nodded.


    Li Chunhua also nodded continuously. They all understood Tong Tiehu¡¯s meaning.


    ¡°Let¡¯s disperse.¡± Tong Tiehu waved his hand in satisfaction.


    Then, the onlooking crowd each returned to their homes.


    The third son of Tong led the Donkey Cart back to Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s house, tied back the donkey to the stable, parked the cart against the wall, and then walked out.


    ¡°Grandpa, can we go home now?¡±


    ¡°Wait, I also want to ask Master Tong and the third son of Tong to be witnesses,¡± Qiao Xiaomai hurriedly said. But while she said this, she didn¡¯t look at the third son of Tong. The words Qiao Meipan used to scold her were also mentioned when Yang Gun was recounting the incident.


    The innocent third son of Tong was dragged into the matter again, which deepened her embarrassment towards him. At this moment, she was too embarrassed to look at him.


    But the third son of Tong was looking at her straightforwardly, asking, ¡°What kind of witness?¡±


    ¡°From now on, my family will only give fifty wen per month (wen is a unit of Chinese money) for respecting grandpa and grandma. As for the fifty wen for the studies of the fifth uncle, my family will not pay it anymore. As Master Tong said earlier, even in the presence of human and physical evidence, the fifth uncle can still distort right and wrong, ck and white, 1 really can¡¯t believe that he will protect our family in the future if he bes an official.¡±


    ¡°The fifth uncle takes us for fools just because he has read some books. The past was the past because we are a family, and there are always times when clouds part to reveal the moon. However, the actions of the fifth uncle today really chilled our hearts.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t want to give this fifty wen. As for the wen given in the past, 1 will erase them altogether. I don¡¯t expect the fifth uncle to repay it, I just hope he will leave our family alone from now on.¡±


    ¡°Master Tong, you were present when the family was divided and this rule was established. Today, you are also here. Will you agree to my idea?¡±


    Trouble today was entirely brewed up by Sun Junyan. She must settle the score with him right here and now..

 Chapter 83 - 83: My Copper Coin, My Rules

    Chapter 83: My Copper Coin, My Rules


    Trantor: 549690339


    As soon as Qiao Xiaomai spoke, everyone from the Qiao family was frozen on the spot.


    The next instance, the originally shrinking Sun Family member started moring immediately, ¡°No way! Absolutely not!¡±


    A small smile spread over Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s face, ¡°My copper coins, my decisions. If I say I won¡¯t give, then I won¡¯t.¡±


    Seeing thedy from the Sun family ready to pounce on her again, her smile deepened, ¡°Grandmother, are you nning to rob me? Grandpa Tong and Brother Tong are still here.¡±


    Recalling the fear of being tied up earlier, thedy from the Sun family shrank behind Sun Junyan, only revealing her tousled head, she stubbornly said, ¡°It was a condition we agreed upon years ago, you can¡¯t change it!¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m changing it today, what of it?¡± Qiao Xiaomai said, her eyes then shifted to Sun Junyan, she looked him up and down, chuckled lightly, ¡°Uncle Five, if you don¡¯t get the fifty wen from my house, can¡¯t you pass the examination to be a schr?¡±


    Sun Junyan¡¯s face, which had been alternating between green and pale, had returned to normal. ¡°Since this was the condition set back then, it naturally cannot be changed arbitrarily. Right, Uncle Tong?¡± He turned to Tong Tiehu towards the end of his statement.


    Tong Tiehu raised his hand to stroke his beard, maintaining a straight face, ¡°This is your family affair, the agreement back then was verbal, I¡¯m just a witness. Now if the little Xiaomai doesn¡¯t want to give, can I force her?¡±


    ¡°Grandpa Tong is right.¡± Xiaomai nodded with a grin.


    Sun Junyan¡¯s face which had regained its normal color, became ugly again, his face creased, with none of his usual gentleness.


    Qiao Qinghe, standing aside, rubbed his face and said, ¡°If she doesn¡¯t want to give, then she doesn¡¯t.¡±


    ¡°Old man, that¡¯s fifty wen!¡± Thedy from the Sun family couldn¡¯t help but exim.


    ¡°If they don¡¯t have this fifty wen, can Xiaowu not pass the schr exam?¡± Qiao Qinghe¡¯s tone became stricter.


    ¡°Grandpa is right, fifty wen, it¡¯s not arge sum. If Uncle Five can exchange his silk robe for a linen one, he¡¯ll have saved fifty wen.¡± Xiaomai still carried a smile.


    Sun Junyan¡¯s brow furrowed tighter and tighter.


    He turned to Tong Tiehu again, ¡°Uncle Tong, even verbal agreements should be kept, right? Otherwise, the Qiao family will need to reunite.¡±


    When the Qiao family split up, the condition was that the four Qiao brothers promised to give Sun Shi a hundred wen each month. Fifty wen as a gift to Qiao Qinghe and Sun Shi, and fifty wen to lend to Sun Junyan for his studies. Otherwise, Sun¡¯s family wouldn¡¯t agree to split.


    Now Qiao Xiaomai didn¡¯t intend to give this fifty wen, so Sun Junyan mentioned this.


    ording to the ¡°Daqi Law,¡± parents are present, private wealth is not allowed.


    This means that if they hadn¡¯t split, the money earned by several Qiao brothers on weekdays would all have to be given to the Sun family.


    Under these circumstances, the Sun family naturally didn¡¯t want to split.


    But the Qiao family wasrge, and at that time all four of the Qiao brothers were married. Together with Sun Junyan and Qiao Meipan, there were over twenty people living in the small courtyard of the Qiao family, it was very crowded and conflicts were frequent.


    Moreover, at that time, the Sun family wanted to send Sun Junyan to the Academy, which would require ten taels of silver for expenses each year.


    Ten taels was arge sum for the Qiao family.


    So Zhu Cuiying, Zhao Shufen, and Wu Yinfeng kicked up a fuss. They all had children too, they also wanted their children to study. Their children were no worse than Sun Junyan, why could Sun Junyan go to the Academy while their children couldn¡¯t?


    Not only did these three women create a fuss, Qiao Changfu, Qiao Chang¡¯an and Qiao Changkang all thought the same.. At that time Sun Junyan was only eight years old, taking ten taels of silver every year, how long would they have to provide for him?

 Chapter 84 - 84: Six Hundred Wen Coins

    Chapter 84: Six Hundred Wen Coins


    Trantor: 549690339


    Despite the pressure of filial piety, under the upheaval of the three brothers Fu Ankang, Qiao Qinghe made the final decision: to divide the family.


    A separation agreement was produced: each family should contribute one hundred wen each month, half as a token of respect to the elders, and the other half for Sun Junyan¡¯s education.


    Now, Qiao Xiaomai was reluctant to give this money. Considering this, Sun Junyan uttered those words.


    Qiao Xiaomai sneered, ¡°Uncle Five, you should ask if your brothers and their wives agree.¡±


    It was ridiculous to even suggest such a thing.


    Zhu Cuiying, Zhao Shufen, and Wu Yinfeng¡¯s eyes darted around nervously. Zhu Cuiying subtly nudged Qiao Changfu, who softly coughed, trying to mediate, ¡°Junyan, if Xiaomai doesn¡¯t want to give the money, let her be.¡± Although he was still living with Qiao Qinghe and the Sun family, his small family only had to contribute one hundred wen per month, the rest was theirs. Having tasted the benefits of being the head of a household and having savings, he had no desire to go back to the past.


    ¡°Junyan, listen to your elder brother,¡± Qiao Chang¡¯an also chimed in.


    Qiao Changkang nodded in agreement, ¡°Fifty wen, we can scrape it together.¡±


    Sun Junyan tightened his lips and remained silent, his eyes dark and brooding.


    Upon hearing the words of the three brothers, Sun¡¯s wife couldn¡¯t help but blurt out, ¡°Bullshit! You make it sound so easy! Xiaowu¡¯s school fees cost ten taels of silver each year. On top of that there are various other expenses. Fifty wen a month totals six hundred wen a year. Where am 1 supposed to find six hundred wen for him?¡±


    The hundred wen each of the four brothers ¨C Qiao Fu, Qiao Shun, Qiao An, and Qiao Kang ¨C contributed every month essentially all went to Sun Junyan.


    A hundred wen a month equalled twelve hundred wen a year. The collective contribution of the four brothers was four thousand and eight hundred wen a year, less than five taels of silver.


    The remaining five taels were provided by Qiao Qinghe and Sun¡¯s wife.


    This was just the annual tuition. Beyond that, they had to provide Sun Junyan with clothes. All the students at the academy were from affluent families; they couldn¡¯t have him wearing hemp, he needed to wear silk.


    Furthermore, from time to time, they had to buy books and paper, and entertain his friends. All this required money.


    After adding up misceneous costs, the total was fifteen taels of silver a year.


    Of the fifteen taels, the four thousand and eight hundred wen that the four brothers contributed were deducted, leaving the rest to be provided by her and Qiao Qinghe.


    In the past, she could plunder from Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s house, transporting silver and grain to her own home. Now, she could no longer plunder; the remaining ten taels of silver all had toe from her and Qiao Qinghe .


    And now Qiao Xiaomai wanted to cut six hundred wen, it was like cutting her flesh!


    ¡°Changsun, the fifty wen isn¡¯t charity, it¡¯s a loan! Xiaowu will pay it back one day!¡± After scolding the three brothers, Sun¡¯s wife turned to Qiao Changsun in hopes of ying the emotional card, ¡°Besides, Xiaowu is your own little brother. Now that you have money, yet refuse to help. What if Xiaowu can¡¯t continue his studies because of this? You¡¯re ruining his whole life!¡±


    With such a heavy usation, Qiao Changsun hesitated.


    Fifty wen was indeed not much for Qiao Xiaomai now. But if Sun Junyan really couldn¡¯t continue his studies because of this fifty wen¡­


    He would have it on his conscience for the rest of his life.


    His lips parted as if to speak, ¡°Xiaomai, you see¡­¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai interrupted him with a cold smile, ¡°I only see my grandmother and aunt overturning our house, 1 only see that because of the fifty taels of silver you foundst year, grandmother almost beat my mother half to death, 1 only see my grandmother spreading rumors about my mother¡¯s unfilial behavior.¡±


    ¡°I only see my grandmother trying to sell me off to a brothel, 1 only see Uncle


    Five squeezing our family of four dry for the sake of his career..¡±

 Chapter 85 - 85: The End of Affection

    Chapter 85: The End of Affection


    Trantor: 549690339


    ¡°Ten years, living in that rotten thatched hut for ten years, with our family starving yet not dying, and frequently facing insult and abuse. That¡¯s all 1 saw.¡± Qiao Xiaomai spoke, her eyes narrowing into a resentful re as she directed them at Sun Junyan.


    Yes, even though it was not her who lived in that body for the past ten years, the memories of the original owner¡¯s painful days now sparked rage in her heart.


    The me grew more potent, eventually transforming into hatred.


    ¡°We¡¯re feeding our uncle¡¯s schooling with our family¡¯s blood and sweat. If you wish to support him, go ahead, but I, Qiao Xiaomai, refuse. Look at your legs, think of our mother, and tell me how many peaceful days have we lived before you softened and thought about helping our uncle?¡±


    ¡°He wouldn¡¯t be unable to study just because of this six hundred wen. He could save it easily by dressing in fewer silk clothes and entertaining his schoolmates less.¡±


    She did not bother to hide the resentment in her tone, her face also adorned with a look of anger.


    Qiao Changshun was taken aback.


    He opened his mouth, attempting to say something. However, the scenes of the past ten years that kept shing in his mind couldn¡¯t lend any support to his faltering words.


    He raised his hand to rub his face, then closed his mouth again.


    He had no rebuttal to what Qiao Xiaomai had said.


    ¡°You insolent child, is this how you talk to your father?!¡± Seeing how begrudgingly lenient Qiao Changshun was and how easily he was persuaded by Qiao Xiaomai, Sun¡¯s fury reignited, and she wanted tosh out again.


    ¡°No matter what I say, from now on, 1 will only contribute fifty wen per month.¡± Qiao Xiaomai switched her gaze to Sun Junyan, her burning anger instantly shifting to a cold smirk. ¡°Uncle, you¡¯ve been living off our family¡¯s blood for ten years, dressedfortably and eating delicately. Have you ever contemted how this family of four is living?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯smendable that you¡¯re ambitious and want to pass the Imperial Examination, but stepping on your older brother¡¯s sacrifices to climb up? I¡¯m really contemting whether to ask your teacher in the academy if this was something they taught.¡±


    Sun Junyan¡¯s face darkened instantly, looking disgustingly hideous as if he had swallowed a dead rat. Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s sharp and piercing words felt like a sword, ruthlessly stabbing him.


    However, looking at Qiao Xiaomai, he sneered, ¡°What can a country girl like you understand.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai chuckled, her smirk fading to disdain, ¡°Yes, I don¡¯t understand, but I know how to be a person. Even if you¡¯ve shown the slightest kindness to my family, I wouldn¡¯t have denied the fifty copper coins each month.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve said before, this fifty wen is what I borrowed from you all. If I achieve anything in the future, I will return it, and repay you all.¡±


    ¡°Sure¡ª who can¡¯t say pretty words? I don¡¯t look at what you¡¯ve said; I only look at what you¡¯ve done.¡± The disdain on Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s face intensified, ¡°Don¡¯t think that just because you¡¯ve read a few books, you can fool others. Nobody is a fool. If my parents showed no resistance before, it was because they truly cared about you as their brother and devotedly respected Grandma.¡±


    ¡°But you think they¡¯re foolish and treat them recklessly. Uncle, our family¡¯s feelings toward you have reached their limit.¡±


    The affection, the respect, and the sentiment had long exhausted.


    These words made Sun Junyan pressed his lips together, his face turning even grimmer.


    There was a lump of anger in his chest that he couldn¡¯t spit out or swallow.


    Even though he knew that out of all his brothers, Qiao Changshun was the most honest and affectionate towards him, what use was mere affection?


    He needed to study, sit for the Imperial Examination, and make a name for himself.


    Each year, the Bailu Academy required tuition fees of ten taels of silver, an enormous amount for the Qiao Family. ording to the inheritance agreement, Qiao Qinghe and Sun needed to give ten taels of silver sufficient to cover his expenses.


    And that was only under his most frugal circumstances..

 Chapter 86 - 86: Thank You Gift

    Chapter 86: Thank You Gift


    Trantor: 549690339


    With only the meager output from the fields and the pitiful earnings from casualbor, Qiao Qing and the Sun family could not gather enough silver to support his pursuit of education.


    Unavoidably, he had to rely on Qiao Changshun and Zhuang Luhe for support.


    His other brothers and sisters-inw were all shrewd and the Sun family had never been fond of Qiao Changshun, thus, he had no choice but exploit Qiao Changshun and his wife.


    Thanks to the contributions from that couple and Qiao Qing and the Sun family, he was able to persevere in the academy.


    He didn¡¯t want to do this, but seeing his ssmates dressed in extravagant clothes and eating well-prepared food while he could only wear rough clothes and eat the academy¡¯smunal meals. No, he could not go on like this; he wanted respectable clothes, he needed money for social engagement.


    All these ssmates were either rich or noble. They were the connections he would need in his future pursuit of an official career; he had to win them over.


    At first, seeing Qiao Changshun¡¯s increasingly aging face filled Junyan with guilt, nning in his heart topensate him in the future.


    But ten years blinked by, wearing down his guilt over time.


    Now, his every thought was focused onworking with his ssmates and quickly escaping this shabby vige.


    Sun Junyan shouldn¡¯t be living this way, there was a broad world outside waiting for him to venture into.


    Today, he returned to the vige as usual, and by chance, he found out that things like cold jelly noodles, tofu and bean curd were made by Qiao Xiaomai. At that moment, sitting at the dinner table, he was ecstatic. With this way of making money, his thorny path to pursuing studies could be smoothed out.


    He struggled to keep his expression under control, not letting his thoughts show on his face; as for what the Sun family said about Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s changes, he didn¡¯t take it to heart at all.


    A person weak for ten years, even if they toughened up, were still soft at heart. He could shape her as he liked.


    Qiao Meipan darted out, so did the Sun family. He had seen this kind of situation too many times, so he slowly stood up and followed the Qiao family.


    Along the way, he had to take several deep breaths to resist the urge to run. Mountains of gold and silvery ahead, waiting for him!


    But when he actually arrived, things were not as he had expected. Qiao Changshun was still the same, but Qiao Xiaomai was the variable.


    The quiet girl who usually kept her head down and worked without a word dared to talk back to him, even using words to mock him.


    It¡¯s worth noting that she used to not dare look him in the face!


    Moreover, a bigger surprise was Tong Tiehu. The Qiao family had been bullied for ten years while Tiehu turned a blind eye, but now he was defiantly standing up for the Qiao family.


    What happened here?


    A flush of green and white washed over Sun Junyan¡¯s face, Qiao Xiaomai saying what she wanted to say without regarding what he was thinking. She looked at Tong Tiehu, and said, ¡°Grandpa Tong, thank you for the trouble today, wait a moment.¡±


    She quickly ran back home and took the vermicelli from the basin.


    This was what Yuan Ding had brought today, a total of five jin. They had made stewed pork with vermicelli for lunch and there was much left. She found a basket and put the vermicelli in it.


    ¡°Grandpa Tong, this is vermicelli, made from sweet potato. We ran out of sweet potatoes at home, so I bought these from Jiwei Ju. 1 hope you won¡¯t mind. Take it home and have a taste, it¡¯s quite nice.¡± Saying this, she handed the basket to Tong Tiehu, smiling pleasantly with dimples by her lips..

 Chapter 87 - 87: Everyone Returns Home

    Chapter 87: Everyone Returns Home


    Trantor: 549690339


    Tong Tiehu looked at Qiao Xiaomai and did not refuse, stretching out his hand to take the basket.


    ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll go back and try your cooking skills.¡±


    ¡°You can stir fry or boil it, but before stir frying it, you¡¯ve to first soften these noodles in hot water,¡± Qiao Xiaomai informed him of the cooking method.


    Tong Tiehu grunted in acknowledgment, casually handed the basket over to Tong Sang who was standing behind him. His gaze swept over the members of the Qiao family, finally resting on Sun Junyan. ¡°When your Qiao family split up, I was just a witness. Now, I am also a witness. 1 can¡¯t interfere with what Xiaomai does.¡±


    ¡°But, if any of you make a fuss under the guise of being elders, as long as it vites the Daqi Laws, I¡¯ll immediately take you to the County Town to meet the county magistrate.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Sun Junyan¡¯s face changed colors rapidly between green and white.


    Tong Tiehu snorted loudly and left with big strides.


    Tong Sang followed after him, at the same time signaling Qiao Dami, ¡°Dami,e here, pick up the basketter.¡±


    Qiao Dami responded with a sound of acknowledgement and ran over happily.


    Qiao Xiaomai watched Qiao Dami¡¯s figure, then walked towards her house. Seeing Qiao Changshun still standing at the door, she said, ¡°Dad, don¡¯t just stand there, let¡¯s clean up the courtyard.¡±


    ¡°Let me do it.¡± Qiao Qinghe raised his hand to rub his face, his voice full of remorse.


    ¡°No need, grandpa, you all should go back.¡± Qiao Xiaomai rejected his offer.


    She really did not want to spend another moment with the people from the old courtyard, including Qiao Qinghe.


    Qiao Qinghe looked at her in shock, sighed heavily, his face weary. He didn¡¯t insist, instead he turned to look at Sun Junyan, his face full of disappointment, ¡°Let¡¯s go home.¡±


    After he finished speaking, he silently walked towards his house, his once upright back now bent.


    Sun Junyan took a deep breath and followed behind him.


    Seeing that the head of the family and her cherished son had left, Sun¡¯s wife could not help stomping her feet, ¡°Six hundred wen, just giving up on six hundred wen?¡±


    No one answered her. Qiao Changfu and others followed the footsteps of Qiao Qinghe with their heads down. Tong Tiehu, like a cold and hard stone, pressed them down so hard they didn¡¯t dare to resist.


    Qiao Xiaomai pulled Qiao Changshun into the house and ¡°bang¡± ruthlessly closed the courtyard gate.


    Soon, only Sun¡¯s wife and Qiao Meipan were left in front of the courtyard door.


    The two of them were filthy and disheveled, covered in dust and their hair was messy, looking very embarrassed.


    After exchanging a nce, Qiao Meipan¡¯s tears fell like rain. It was over. After today¡¯s incidents, there was no chance for her and Tong Sang.


    Sun¡¯s wife grumbled irritably, ¡°What are you crying for? Let¡¯s go home!¡± After saying this, she also left cursing and swearing.


    Qiao Meipan sniffled a few times, then stomped her foot and ran to catch up.


    Qiao Meipan and Sun¡¯s wife were eager and angry when they came, but left with their tails between their legs. Now, the front of Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s house waspletely quiet.


    There was no one outside the gate, but the courtyard was a mess. Qiao Xiaomai sighed and began to clean up.


    The courtyard was paved with green bricks, and Sun¡¯s wife and Qiao Meipan, this insidious mother-daughter duo, had touched every brick, including those in the toilet. Things were thrown all over the ce, and those that should be picked up were picked up, those that should be washed were washed, and those that should be cleaned were cleaned.


    Qiao Changshun silently started to work, not saying a word.


    Qiao Xiaomai nced at him and was rtively satisfied with his performance today.


    His heart had softened for a moment, butpared to the past, there was definitely great progress.


    However, recalling the dramatic gossip Tong Tiehu had mentioned earlier, her eyes rolled a few times, before she finally said, ¡°Dad, was what Grandpa Tong said about Third Uncle wanting to elope with mom true?¡±

 Chapter 88 - 88: Giving You a Chicken

    Chapter 88: Giving You a Chicken


    Trantor: 549690339


    Qiao Changshun was cleaning up the dried grass from the chicken coop, which the Sun Family had just torn out, scattering it all over the courtyard. Upon hearing Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s words, he was taken aback, with the image of his first meeting with Zhuang Luhe appearing in his mind.


    Instantly, his heart felt as though it was being crushed by a huge rock, making it difficult for him to breathe.


    ¡°It¡¯s all in the past.¡± His voice was low, clearly unwilling to borate.


    ¡°So Uncle and Aunt have been treating Mom strangely all these years because of this?¡± Qiao Xiaomai asked further.


    ¡°Maybe.¡± Qiao Changshun¡¯s voice dropped even lower.


    Qiao Xiaomai responded with a drawn-out sound of understanding. She had originally thought that Zhao Shufen simply disliked Zhuang Luhe. She didn¡¯t expect this.


    However, Zhuang Luhe indeed had the charm to make men risk everything for her. Despite being oppressed by the Sun Family for so many years, and suffering harsh living conditions for so long, time hadn¡¯t left too many traces on her.


    Herplexion was still fair, with only a few lines appearing when she smiled. Her facial features were refined. Compared to years ago, she had gained a more mature charm.


    And still¡­ there are men who are willing to leave with her now.


    Seeing that Qiao Changshun was really unwilling to borate, she changed the topic. ¡°Dad, if Grandmaes over to cry andin to you in the future, you mustn¡¯t give in.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll manage the family¡¯s funds. As for food, let¡¯s not buy the corn used for taxes for now. We will buy only as much as we eat for daily consumption.¡±


    The Sun¡¯s Family hoarded everything. Now, if she reduced their money by fifty ten-thousandths each month, they would definitely want to touch the food storage. She was not willing to give even a single grain of rice to this madwoman!


    Qiao Changshun responded in a low voice, ced all the dry grass back into the chicken coop, and then stood up to level out the vegetable patch¡¯s soil. The Sun Family had not spared it earlier, uprooting quite a few newly sprouted garlic sprouts and green onions.


    Seeing that he really didn¡¯t want to talk any further, Qiao Xiaomai stood up and went to the kitchen.


    The kitchen was also a mess, with things thrown all over the ce. The oil bowl and the dish containing salt grains had been overturned, leaving oil all over. She gritted her teeth, cursed lowly, and started cleaning.


    When she had tidied up the kitchen, Qiao Dami returned, hopping around with a basket in his hand. In the basket, there was a brightly colored wild chicken.


    ¡°Brother Tong said he hunted this in the mountains and sent it for our family to eat.¡±


    The soup made from the old hen we boughtst time was so delicious, he wanted to eat chicken legs!


    Looking at Qiao Dami¡¯s sparkling eyes, Qiao Xiaomai frowned slightly and asked, ¡°What else did Brother Tong tell you?¡±


    ¡°He said the tofu was very delicious. Grandpa Tong said we cane to him if we have any problems in the future. He also said that once our family has earned more money, you can send me to the Academy.¡± Qiao Dami shook his little head, summarizing the words of Tong Sang and Tong Tiehu.


    Qiao Xiaomai raised her curved eyebrows. She had sent tofu noodles to thank Tong Tiehu for his help. Tong Sang sent over a wild chicken. Could it be that he thought the tofu was too precious and didn¡¯t want to take advantage of her?


    Thinking of his calm eyes, she dismissed the thought from her mind.


    Since he had given it, she would ept it with peace of mind.


    Taking the basket from him, she reached up and rubbed Qiao Dami¡¯s head. ¡°Do you want to go to school?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t want to.¡± Qiao Dami¡¯s response was without hesitation.


    ¡°Why?¡± Qiao Xiaomai yfully pinched his cheek, ¡°If you study, you can be a high-ranking official.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Qiao Dami blinked his big eyes, his long eyshes fluttering, ¡°I don¡¯t want to leave you and Dad, even if it¡¯s to go to school. Let¡¯s wait until Momes back to talk about it.. Sister, now that our family has money, can we ask someone to send a letter to Mom telling her toe back?¡±

 Chapter 89 - 89: Things of the Past

    Chapter 89: Things of the Past


    Trantor: 549690339


    Looking at Qiao Dami¡¯s dark and shiny eyes, Qiao Xiaomai smiled slightly and said, ¡°Dami, mother said she went out to work, but in reality, she wanted to escape. Grandma always scolds her behind her back. She doesn¡¯t want to stay in the vige right now, so she went out to work.¡±


    ¡°When Grandma no longer dares to cause trouble in our house, we can bring mother back, okay?¡±


    ¡°Is that so¡­¡± Disappointment shed across Qiao Dami¡¯s face.


    However, recalling the ferocious image of Mrs. Sun beating Zhuang Luhest year, he heavily nodded his small head, ¡°OK!¡±


    ¡°Good boy, go and cook some soybean residue for the chicks. If you are hungry, eat a piece of pastry.¡± Qiao Xiaomai was satisfied and gently rubbed his head.


    All the food that was ced on the table earlier was thrown onto the floor by Mrs. Sun, along with the broken bowls. They hardly ate at lunch, so dessert was their only choice.


    Qiao Dami gave another affirmative response and ran into the kitchen.


    Qiao Changshun was bending over to pick up the pile of firewood that Qiao Xiaomai had dragged backst time. Hearing the conversation of the two siblings, he couldn¡¯t help but feel his nose sting, and the corners of his eyes bing warm.


    It¡¯s all his fault¡­


    Qiao Xiaomai, unknowing of his distress, went into her room after busy work in the kitchen.


    The bedding on the bed as well as the clothes in the box were all thrown out by Mrs. Sun and Qiao Meipan, randomly scattered on the ground with footprints left on them. She took a deep breath. Damn, in the past, she could get rid of them in no time. But now, living in such a rundown ce, despite having money, there was nowhere to buy new ones.


    Wash!


    As Qiao Xiaomai was doingundry, Tong Sang and Tong Tiehu were sitting in the courtyard talking.


    Tong Eng and Zhu Hongyun went to the fields to weed, and Mrs. Qian had also gone with them.


    Tong Sang poured a cup of tea for Tong Tiehu, and continued eating his lunch.


    He was still eating when Qiao Dami ran over earlier. At eighteen, he¡¯s at the age when he¡¯s growing, so his appetite wasrger than most people.


    ¡°Grandpa, what happened with Uncle Changshun¡¯s wife back then?¡±


    Tong Tiehu took a sip of tea. The bitter taste spread in his mouth. He squinted his eyes and hummed, ¡°Before your Aunt Changshun got married, she was known as a beauty. Qiao Chang¡¯an once encountered her in town while working and was instantly captivated. He then asked Mrs. Sun to propose a marriage.¡±


    ¡°Mrs. Sun looked down on the Zhuang Family for their poverty, and was unwilling to arrange a marriage. But since Qiao Chang¡¯an had set his heart on her, she had no choice but to send the matchmaker to propose.¡±


    ¡°Your Aunt Changshun secretly came to our vige to investigate the Qiao Family¡¯s situation and Qiao Chang¡¯an¡¯s character. She was spotted by the local rogue Lai San. Coincidentally, your Uncle Changshun saw what happened and helped her, so she took a liking to your Uncle Changshun.¡±


    ¡°Qiao Chang¡¯an obviously wouldn¡¯t ept this, and even fought with your Uncle Changshun. Then, he invited your Aunt Changshun out under your Uncle Changshun¡¯s name, intending to elope with her. Aunt Changshun didn¡¯t agree, and he came up with wicked ideas to impose his will on her.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Tong Sang¡¯s eyebrows lifted slightly, ¡°Such a thing happened?¡±


    ¡°Indeed,¡± Tong Tiehu sneered, mockery all over his face, ¡°At that time, the incident caused a big stir in the vige. The Zhuang Family also sent people over, causing a hugemotion. In the end, your Aunt Changshun got married to your Uncle Changshun. Ever since then, Qiao Chang¡¯an has been hostile to them as a couple, and Mrs. Sun also despised your Aunt Changshun.¡±


    ¡°She never liked your Uncle Changshun in the first ce. Now, with your Aunt Changshun added into the equation, she utterly despises them both.¡±


    Tong Sang¡¯s eyes spun, swallowing the steamed bun in his mouth, and asked, ¡°Why doesn¡¯t Mrs.. Sun like Uncle Changshun?¡±

 Chapter 90 - 90: The Reason

    Chapter 90: The Reason


    Trantor: 549690339


    Tong Tiehu frowned, ¡°I¡¯m not sure of the specific reason, but when your Uncle Changshun was young, the Sun Family was quite fond of him.¡±


    A look of surprise flickered across Tong Sang¡¯s handsome face, ¡°The Sun Family used to be fond of Uncle Changshun?¡±


    This¡­


    Such a situation was simply unimaginable!


    Tong Tiehu nodded, ¡°Yes, but they suddenly didn¡¯t like him anymore. I don¡¯t know the specific reason.¡±


    ¡°So all these years, Grandpa Qiao just watched as the Sun family bullied Uncle Changshun?¡± Tong Sang asked again.


    ¡°There¡¯s no other way, Qiao Qinghe iscking in confidence. He was an outsider who came to Anping Vige alone many years ago. He didn¡¯t have a penny and even came down with a high fever. It was the father of the Sun family who took him in. Later, he settled down in the vige after recovering, and the Sun family helped him a lot during that time.¡±


    ¡°The Sun family only had this one daughter, Sun. The family line was dying out and then¡­¡±


    Tong Tiehu paused here, sipped some tea, and slowly savored it.


    ¡°What happened then?¡± Sensing the amusement in his grandfather¡¯s tone, Tong Sang¡¯s curiosity was piqued.


    Tong Tiehu chuckled, ¡°At one point, Qiao Qinghe went to the Sun family and got drunk with the father of Sun. He ended up taking advantage of Sun.¡±


    ¡°Puff!¡± The steamed bun in Tong Sang¡¯s mouth almost choked him. He coughed a few times, quickly poured himself a ss of water, and started drinking.


    Tong Tiehu looked at him andughed, his eyes full of affection, ¡°Was that shocking?¡±


    Tong Sang nodded, putting down the teacup, ¡°I never would¡¯ve expected Grandpa Qiao to do something like that.¡±


    Qiao Qinghe was quite a handsome man, even as he grew older and had been living in the vige for decades, he still stood out for his distinctive demeanor when among the vigers.


    As for Sun, judging from her current appearance, she must have been average-looking when she was young.


    Knowing now that it was Qiao Qinghe who took advantage of Sun when he was drunk, had these two really mixed up their stories?


    ¡°Anyway, that¡¯s how the Sun family tells it and he conceded. He eventually married Sun and moved into the Sun family home, in effect bing a son-inw who had married into his wife¡¯s family. The vige also repossessed his originalnds. Due to his marrying into the family, his son Sun Junyan bears the Sun surname, preserving the family line.¡±


    ¡°Years ago, his health wasn¡¯t good and he needed to take medication regrly. Sun took care of most of the housework. Therefore, he doesn¡¯t stand tall in front of Sun.¡±


    Tong Sang paused, ¡°Even though Sun treats Uncle Changshun and his family so poorly, even if he doesn¡¯t have the backbone to stand up to her, he wouldn¡¯t bepletely indifferent, would he?¡±


    ¡°Privately, he has been secretly supporting your Aunt Changshun. As for anything else, I really can¡¯t figure out what he¡¯s thinking.¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s been supporting Aunt Changshun and her family?¡± Surprise crossed Tong Sang¡¯s handsome face again.


    ¡°Hmm, otherwise, considering Sun¡¯s tyrannical behavior, Uncle Changshun¡¯s family wouldn¡¯t be able to hold on.¡± Tong Tiehu finished the tea in his mouth, got up and said, ¡°Okay, 1 am going to check on your second brother, to see if he is working diligently.¡±


    ¡°Your second brother was spoiled when he was young. Just don¡¯t let him turn into another Sun Junyan.¡±


    ¡°He won¡¯t. My second brother is fundamentally good, just a bitzy. Sun Junyan is rotten to the core. My second brother is not in the same league as him.¡±


    ¡°That was the old days. Now he has a wife, his ear is softer than tofu.¡± Thinking of Zhu Hongyun, Tong Tiehu¡¯s face turned stern again, ¡°You go back to your room to studyter. I will check on it when I return.¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡± Tong Sang replied.


    Tong Tiehu nodded in satisfaction and stepped out of the house.


    Tong Sang quickly finished his lunch, washed the pots and dishes, and then returned to his room, sitting by the window to read.


    The sunlight passed through the windowttice and fell on his long eyshes, adding a brightyer to his handsome face, making him extraordinarily handsome..

 Chapter 91 - 91 His Life Shouldn’t Be Like This

    Chapter 91: His Life Shouldn¡¯t Be Like This


    Trantor: 549690339


    Qiao Family.


    Qiao Qinghe walked into the house, silently picked up the bucket and shoulder pole kept behind the door and headed towards the exit.


    Sun Family spoke, ¡°Old man, where are you going?¡±


    She was exhausted after themotion, and had just managed to eat a few mouthfuls of lunch.


    ¡°The wheat fields need watering, I¡¯m going to do that,¡± Qiao Qinghe replied.


    ¡°But you haven¡¯t eaten yet!¡±


    ¡°I am not eating,¡± said Qiao Qinghe and stepped out of the courtyard.


    She stomped her foot and gave Qiao Changfu, who was standing next to her, a shove, ¡°Aren¡¯t you going to help him?¡±


    Qiao Changfu stumbled from the push, and clutched his stomach, ¡°Mother, I haven¡¯t eaten yet either, let me have a bite first.¡±


    He said and headed towards the hall.


    ¡°Mother, I have to water my wheat too, I should go home now,¡± Fearing being stopped by Sun family, Qiao Chang¡¯an cowered, bent over to pick up ten-year-old Qiao Xiaobao, and quickly walked towards the exit.


    Qiao Xiaobao wriggled in his arms, unwilling to leave, ¡°1 want to eat chicken legs! I want to eat chicken legs!¡±


    ¡°Eat what!¡± Qiao Chang¡¯an pped his butt, but it was just a sound and didn¡¯t hurt at all.


    So Qiao Xiaobao yelled even louder, ¡°1 want to eat stir-fried cold noodles, 1 want to eat meat!¡±


    Zhao Shufen grinned at the Sun Family, ¡°Mother, we should go back too,¡± she said, pulled her daughters Qiao Zhaodi and Qiao Yindi along and left.


    After Qiao Chang¡¯an¡¯s family left, Qiao Changkang quickly led his wife and children away as well.


    So,only Qiao Changfu¡¯s family and Sun Family, Sun Junyan, Qiao Meipan were left in the courtyard.


    She stomped her foot again and couldn¡¯t help but start cursing again, ¡°A pack of idlers, ungrateful wretches! I wasted my time raising you all, 1 should¡¯ve strangled you at birth!¡±


    Seeing this, Qiao Dazhu said, ¡°I¡¯ll go.¡±


    When the Qiao family split, Qiao Chang¡¯an, Qiao Changshun and Qiao Changkang moved out. Qiao Changfu¡¯s family and Sun Family, Qiao Qinghe, Sun Junyan, Qiao Meipan lived together and usually worked and ate together.


    Seeing Qiao Dazhu going to fetch the water, Zhu Cuiying, with a stern face, stopped him, ¡°You haven¡¯t eaten yet. Come on, eat something first, then we can go to the field together.¡±


    Qiao Dazhu scratched his head, went to the hall, picked up two mixed flour buns, and started gnawing on one as he walked away.


    Sun Family nced at Qiao Changfu and Zhu Cuiying, who were sitting next to the dining table sipping chicken soup, and couldn¡¯t help but curse again, ¡°Eat, eat, eat, that¡¯s all you know. It would serve you right to choke on it!¡±


    Qiao Changfu and Zhu Cuiying remained silent, just continuing to sip their soup with their heads lowered.


    ¡°Stop eating, all of you, go work in the field!¡± With a ck face, Sun Family took the chicken soup and Red Braised Fish and Stir-Fried Pork from the table.


    Normally she would be reluctant to take out these dishes, but now with the situation as it is, better save these for Sun Junyan to eat.


    Seeing this, Zhu Cuiying drank her chicken soup even faster and kept cursing internally.


    Their fields were right next to Qiao Qinghe and Sun Junyan¡¯s, but the only ones really working were Qiao Qinghe and her husband. Their family provided all thebor, yet now they couldn¡¯t even have a bowl of soup, damn puritanical woman!


    Sun Junyan stood there, looking coldly at this family. He felt an anger rising in his chest that made him feel like he might explode.


    This group of people, each with their own schemes, were vulgar, disgusting, yet were his closest blood rtives, his life wasn¡¯t supposed to be like this¡­


    ¡°Mother, when did the vige chief start siding with second brother?¡± He frowned and broke the silence.


    Today¡¯s variables were firstly, on Qiao Xiaomai and secondly, on Tong Tiehu.


    When did these two start working together?

 Chapter 92 - 92: He Has An Idea

    Chapter 92: He Has An Idea


    Trantor: 549690339


    Due to these two people, not a single one of his objectives was achieved.


    Let alone any gold or silver mountain, he couldn¡¯t even get to taste cold jelly noodles, tofu, or bean curd.


    He used to appreciate the Sun Family¡¯s bandit-like behavior of just barging into Qiao Changshun¡¯s house and taking whatever they pleased, but today, he ended up taking a big fall because of this behavior.


    If the Sun Family could sit down and talk calmly, then Tong Tiehu wouldn¡¯t have had an excuse to take her to the County Town.


    Selling cold jelly noodles brought him no profit, but tofu and bean curd were being made every day, so if the Sun Family could take over this business¡­


    It was all due to the nonsense of the Sun Family and Qiao Meipan!¡±


    While he was thinking, Qiao Meipan started to speak bitterly, ¡°It¡¯s all because that witch got involved with Tong Sang, so the vige chief is helping her!¡±


    ¡°Exactly, that witch made Dami fall into the water, intentionally causing Tong Sang to save her. Then, she prepared some food to thank him, and before they knew it, they were hooked together!¡± Zhu Cuiying eagerly agreed, as a person who saw Qiao Xiaomai delivering food to the Tong Family house, she had a say in this matter.


    ¡°So that¡¯s what happened¡­¡± Sun Junyan¡¯s brows furrowed more tightly.


    He knew about Qiao Meipan being turned down by Tong Sang for marriage. It turned out that Tong Sang had set his sights on Qiao Xiaomai.


    Though Tong Tiehu was the lowest-ranking official, he was, after all, an official, and his family had a shop in the town, which would have made him a decent catch for Qiao Meipan.


    Thinking about the vegetable recipe that Qiao Xiaomai had created, he pondered for a moment and made up his mind.


    ¡°Let¡¯s eat first. After eating, I¡¯ll go help Dad carry water to the fields.¡± he sat down at the dining table.


    Watering the fields was hard work, as they had to carry each bucket of water from the well to their own field. Hearing him say this, Sun Family immediately said, ¡°You can rest at home, studying at the academy is tiring enough. You don¡¯t have to work on the rare asion that you¡¯re home.¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s no fun in just resting, I want to help dad.¡± Sun Junyan said with a gentle smile.


    Seeing that he genuinely wanted to help out, the Sun Family put all three meat dishes in front of him, ¡°Eat more to replenish your strength.¡±


    After saying this, she looked at Qiao Changfu, Zhu Cuiying, Qiao Erzhu, Qiao Ying, and Qiao Meipan who were sitting at the table, her face darkened again, ¡°Eat quickly, and then we¡¯ll go to the fields!¡±


    Qiao Meipan opened her mouth, wanting to object.


    She never had to do heavybor like carrying water to the fields before. She was a youngdy, always running around in the fields would make her skin rough and dark, how would she find a husband?


    But looking at the Sun Family¡¯s stern face, she swallowed the words that were on the tip of her tongue.


    Forget it, she would tolerate it for today.


    She was not clear about the twists and turns at the old courtyard, as she was sitting next to the well, vigorously washing clothes at the moment.


    The quilt cover was toorge to fit in the small wooden basin, so she decided to wash it in the bath bucket.


    Qiao Changshun and Qiao Dami were out cutting green grass for the donkey, leaving her alone at home. She lifted the bath bucket filled with water quite easily by herself.


    Just as she was almost finished, faint hoofbeats could be heard from outside the door, along with Yuan Ding¡¯s voice, ¡°Xiaomai, open the door, I¡¯m here with the earthen jars!¡±


    This morning, Qiao Xiaomai made tofu pudding in four jars, upying all her newly bought four earthen jars. To ensure that they could be used again in the morning, he had to make an extra delivery to return the jars.


    Hearing the sound, Qiao Xiaomai hummed an acknowledgment and hurriedly stood up to open the door for him.


    Seeing her hands all wet, Yuan Ding asked while moving the jars, ¡°Are you washing clothes?¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai casually responded with a hum, not saying much.. She walked over, ready to carry the earthen jars, ¡°Hey, why are there eight jars?¡±

 Chapter 93 - 93 Earn more silver!

    Chapter 93: Earn more silver!


    Trantor: 549690339


    ¡°The other four are from Shopkeeper He, the tofu pudding is selling very well, he hopes you would make more.¡± Yuan Ding exined with a smile.


    Qiao Xiaomail widened her eyes, ¡°How well?¡±


    ¡°A young master surnamed Fan directly bought a pottery pot, and the remaining three pottery pots were quickly sold out.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai,¡±¡­ This tofu pudding is just a dessert, does that young master eat it as a meal?¡±


    Moreover, the tofu pudding which costs twenty wen a small bowl, was unexpectedly sold out, it seems that there are more wealthy people in Bailu Town than she imagined.


    ¡°That Master Fan is quite wealthy, he bought a house in the town and has servants living in it, he probably bought it for them to taste.¡± Yuan Ding guessed.


    ¡°This young master is quite generous.¡±


    ¡°Isn¡¯t he? He is a regr customer of Jiwiju, and he¡¯s very polite to people.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai agreed, then asked again, ¡°How about the sale of tofu?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s also good, but not as fast as tofu pudding. There are many ingredients and vors of tofu pudding, Shopkeeper He instructed the chef to make more than ten kinds of sauces.¡±


    ¡°I see-¡± Qiao Xiaomai nodded, pondered for a moment, and said, ¡°Then I will make more tofu pudding and less tofu in the future.¡±


    The tofu still needs to be pressed, and this additional step is troublesome.


    ¡°No, don¡¯t do that.¡± Yuan Ding immediately shook his head upon hearing her words, ¡°The tofu is just sold slower than tofu pudding, but it also sells out quickly every day. The best-selling ones are three kinds of soup: jadeite and white jade soup, crucian carp tofu soup, and bamboo shoot tofu soup.¡±


    ¡°In particr, the crucian carp tofu soup, which is as white as milk, is pleasing to the eye and smells delicious, many people order it.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai blinked her eyes, it turns out that people in Bailu Town also love soup.


    ¡°Moreover, the chef came up with a new way of eating today, hollowing out the tofu, filling it with meat, and frying it in a pan. It also tastes good.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai blinked her eyes again, the head chef of Jiwiju is quite smart.


    ¡°Miss Xiaomai.¡± Yuan Ding held two pottery pots, his round face was serious, ¡°When I told you that tofu pudding is selling well, I meant that you should make more tofu pudding while ensuring the quantity of tofu. If Shopkeeper He knew that you were reducing the production of tofu because of my nonsense, he would definitely cut my wages!¡±


    Qiao Xiaomaiughed, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, there won¡¯t be less tofu every day.¡±


    Yuan Ding breathed a sigh of relief, his heart that had been hanging was relieved, he put the pottery pots back into the kitchen, a smile appeared on his round face again, ¡°Miss Xiaomai, whether it¡¯s tofu or tofu pudding, you just make as much as you can. The shopkeeper said, he will sell whatever amount you can make.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai nodded, ¡°Alright. By the way, how is the cold jelly noodles selling?¡±


    Giving that it agitated the Sun Family to create a fuss, the business should be better than she imagined.


    ¡°They are selling very well, Shopkeeper He even went to the surrounding viges today to collect sweet potatoes. Unfortunately, at this time of the year, most households have already run out of them, in my opinion, the cold jelly noodles won¡¯t be selling for long.¡±


    ¡°Then bring me fifty jin of jelly noodles tomorrow.¡± Qiao Xiaomai said as soon as she heard that.


    Now it¡¯s spring, and sweet potatoes won¡¯t be harvested until autumn, she need to stock up on jelly noodles during this time.


    ¡°Alright.¡± Yuan Ding agreed.


    The two chatted for a few more words, Yuan Ding made up the silver coins that were not given in the morning, and then drove off in the carriage.


    Once he left, Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s mood, which had been gloomy for half the afternoon, began to lift.


    Making money, this really is a pleasant and fulfilling activity.


    Huh, she has seen many people like Sun Junyan who have high ambitions and crooked thoughts, she wants to earn more silver to entice him to take the initiative to harm her.


    And next time, she won¡¯t let him off so easily..

 Chapter 94 - 94: She is Rich

    Chapter 94: She is Rich


    Trantor: 549690339


    After sending off Yuan Ding, Qiao Xiaomai continued to wash her clothes and bedding. After washing them, she started to cook dinner so that by the time the sun set and Qiao Changshun and Qiao Dami came back, dinner was ready.


    At the dinner table, Qiao Xiaomai brought up her n, ¡°Dad, can you go see Grandpa Tong about buying somend tomorrow?¡±


    It was time to nt soybeans and sweet potatoes.


    ¡°Okay.¡± When it came tond, the wrinkles on Qiao Changshun¡¯s face seemed to soften a bit.


    ¡°Just like we said before, buy five acres,¡± Qiao Xiaomai continued.


    Qiao Changshun was silent for a moment before nodding slowly.


    Five acres, that seemed rather too little.


    But considering their actual circumstances, that was the best they could do.


    After dinner, Qiao Xiaomai soaked thirty-jin of soybeans, there were too many things they needed to buy, so they needed to earn more money.


    Before going to sleep, she entered her space again, poured herself half a ss of water and drank it down greedily.


    When her consciousness swept past a few pots of chili nts, she raised an eyebrow and took one out.


    As a food lover, chili was one of her favorites. For this reason, she put a few chili nts in her space. The fiery red chilies against the vibrant green leaves left a beautiful sight.


    This time and space had no chili and only cornelian cherries. The cornelian cherries were hot, but there was always a bitter taste which she was not ustomed to.


    Therefore, she must grow these chilies. This was another path for her to achieve wealth.


    Making up her mind, she put the pot back, pulled out a bottle of chili sauce and a piece of toast as well. Despite having had a full dinner, the craving for chili had made her want to eat again.


    The taste of bread and chilli sauce was surprisingly good.


    Such a delicious chili must be grown as soon as possible so she could eat it openly!


    The next day, when the rooster crowed for the first time, she and Qiao Changshun got up. They were busy for two and a half hours until all thirty jin of soybeans were processed.


    Today¡¯s tofu and bean curd were even more than yesterday¡¯s, making Yuan Dingugh with joy.


    He also brought the fifty jin of cellophane noodles that Qiao Xiaomai had asked for. The price that Shopkeeper He had given was very cheap, only one wen per jin, so fifty jin only cost fifty wen.


    After Yuan Ding left, Qiao Xiaomai put away the cellophane noodles and went to the Tong Family¡¯s house with Qiao Changshun.


    Tong Tiehu was not home as he was in the fields supervising Tong Eng¡¯s work. Qian Shi had taken her sewing basket and gone out to visit friends. Only Tong Sang was home.


    Hearing the purpose of Qiao Xiaomai and Qiao Changshun¡¯s visit, Tong


    Sang nodded, ¡°Okay, I will get the deed for you.¡±


    ¡°All?¡± Qiao Xiaomai asked, surprised, ¡°Shouldn¡¯t this kind of thing be reported to Gramps Tong?¡±


    ¡°I can make this decision,¡± said Tong Sang as he went into his room. Soon he came out with a piece of paper.


    The surprise on Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s little face intensified. This precious object was actually kept by Tong Sang?


    ¡°It¡¯s all wastnd. Uncle Changshun, when you sold it, the price was three taels per acre, so five acres would be fifteen taels.¡± Tong Sang handed the piece of paper to Qiao Changshun, ¡°However, there are wheat nted on thend now.


    Until the wheat is harvested, you can take over.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s only right,¡± Qiao Changshun hastily reached out to take the thin piece of paper, hisrge hand trembling slightly, his eyes reddening.


    To him, thend was his lifeblood.


    Observing his emotional state, Qiao Xiaomai raised an eyebrow, then turned to Tong Sang and asked, with clear, dewy eyes, ¡°Tong Sang, if we include the wheat, how much will it cost?¡±


    Given how moved Qiao Changshun was, she decided to buy the wheat as well to make him happy.


    Hearing her words, Tong Sang looked at Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s face, his dark pupils reflected her image and reminded her, ¡°Harvesting wheat is a lot of trouble.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s okay. I¡¯ll hire someone when the timees,¡± Qiao Xiaomai, unaware of Tong Sang¡¯s implication, replied with a faint smile on her face.


    She was rich..

 Chapter 95 - 95: The Answer is Already in the Heart

    Chapter 95: The Answer is Already in the Heart


    Trantor: 549690339


    Seeing Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s audacity, Tong Sang lowered his eyes, his long, dark eyshes concealing the emotions in his eyes.


    The girl in front of him used to always look down, her eyes numb and spiritless, her originally captivating peach blossom-like eyes devoid of any vitality. She was slightly hunched, silent, and even somewhat timid.


    Now, she always stands up straight, the pair of moist peach blossom eyes exuding the expected brightness, and her small face always bears a confident expression.


    Like now, she who originally didn¡¯t intend to buy wheat, is prepared to buy it, having seen Qiao Changshun¡¯s agitation, she even talks about hiring someone.


    The contrast between her grand gestures now and her past frugality begrudging even a penny as if wishing to split it in half ¡ª is truly like night and day.


    Even if it¡¯s due to Zhuang Luhe not being here, and her having to support the family reluctantly, the frugality cultivated due to poverty should still be present.


    But she has none of these habits.


    Besides, she had inexplicably gained considerable strength.


    Her knowledge about vegetables is exinable, but this sudden strength¡­


    Although his thoughts took many twists and turns, Tong Sang kept his expression impassive. He said, ¡°The five acres ofnd are all low-grade fields, an acre of wheat can yield about two hundred jin, one jin costs three cents, one acre is six hundred cents, and five acres is a total of three thousand cents.¡±


    ¡°Plus the fifteen taels for thend, it¡¯s a total of eighteen taels.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Qiao Changshun quickly waved his hand, ¡°Why buy wheat at all? Don¡¯t buy it, don¡¯t buy it. If we buy it, we¡¯ll have to spend more money to hire people to harvest it.¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s buy it. If we buy it now, we won¡¯t have to buy itter. After all, we have to pay taxes and we need to eat on regr days,¡± Qiao Xiaomai insisted.


    She had brought a cloth pouch filled with silver and copper coins. She opened the pouch, took out fifteen taels of silver and then counted three thousand copper coins, ¡°Brother San Tong, could you verify?¡±


    ¡°No need,¡± Tong Sang waved off casually.


    ¡°Do we really not need to inform Grandfather Tong about this?¡± Qiao Xiaomai looked at him, still somewhat uneasy in her heart.


    How could the property deed, such a valuable item, be entrusted to Tong Sang by the Tong Family?


    Tong Sang took a detached look at Qiao Xiaomai, ¡°I have the authority.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai merely replied with an acknowledgement, somewhat embarrassedly touching her nose, ¡°Then Brother San Tong, you go ahead with your chores. My father and 1 will leave.¡±


    Tong Sang nodded his head, his handsome face turning towards Qiao Changshun, revealing a faint smile, ¡°Uncle Changshun, take care.¡±


    As Qiao Xiaomai and Qiao Changshun stepped out of the gate of the Tong Family residence, the smile on his handsome face disappeared. His gaze lingered on the money on the table for a moment. His sharp eyebrows furrowed, his eyes dark.


    What kind of changes will Qiao Xiaomai bring¡­


    Qiao Xiaomai was unaware of the doubts in Tong Sang¡¯s heart that had turned into certainty. As she left the Tong Family with Qiao Changshun, thetter held tight to the property deed, his pace faster than when they came. ¡°Xiaomai, 1¡¯11 go and take a look at the field.¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s go home, we¡¯ll ride the donkey cart there.¡± Qiao Xiaomai stopped him from acting too excitedly, as therge tract ofnd was far from their home. If Qiao Changshun walked there, his legs would definitely hurt again.


    ¡°Yes, yes, I can cut some green grass on the way to feed the donkey.¡± Qiao Changshunughed. The wrinkles on his face smoothed out a bit.


    Upon their return home, Qiao Changshun led the donkey out, hitched it to the cart, and then they all went together to see their newnd..

 Chapter 96 - 96 Her Stupid Methods

    Chapter 96: Her Stupid Methods


    Trantor: 549690339


    It is now mid-March, the wheat has started to spike, and in another month, it will be ready for harvest.


    Qiao Changshun has a little shovel in his hand, walking back and forth in the wheat field, bent over weeding the wheat.


    This task is somewhat challenging for him, but seeing the lush, spiking wheat, the red glow on his dark face never faded away.


    With so much wheat, all he needs to do is wait for the harvest, what a wonderful feeling!


    Qiao Dami is running around the edge of the field with a shovel in hand, cutting wild grass, which he ns to take hometer.


    Qiao Xiaomai stands on the donkey cart, her arms crossed over her chest, her eyes scanning the vast wheat field while silently calcting in her mind.


    After the wheat is harvested, soybeans and sweet potatoes will need to be nted, in addition to that, she needs to find a way to bring the chili seedlings into the open.


    In her space, she has several bottles of hot sauce and dozens of dried heaven-facing chilies.


    She needs to get the seeds out of these dried chilies, but the question is where to nt them afterwards?


    If she secretly nts them in the mountains, grazing animals will definitely eat the seedlings.


    If she nts them in her own fields, she will have to exin the origins of the chili to Qiao Changshun.


    After pondering for a moment, her consciousness sank into her space again to check the few potted chili nts.


    These chili nts are of different varieties, one pot ismon horn pepper, one is heaven-facing chili, and three pots are bell pepper.


    The bell peppers look very beautiful, the bright red chilies look like little bells, very cute, so she has nted more of them.


    For her, however, the ordinary heaven-facing chili is still the most practical. If she had known she would end up in this ce, she would have brought a bunch of heaven-facing chili seedlings with her.


    ¡°Sister, what are you doing standing on the cart?¡± Qiao Dami, who had cut a basketful of wild grass, saw his sister standing on the donkey cart, deep in thought, and couldn¡¯t help asking out of curiosity.


    ¡°I¡¯m just looking at our wheat field.¡± Qiao Xiaomai looked at him, jumped down from the donkey cart, walked over, and took the basket from his hands.


    Unable toe up with a good idea, she could only resort to using a clumsy method¡­


    The trio stayed in the wheat field until noon. Qiao Xiaomai piled all the cut wild grass onto the donkey cart, Qiao Changshun led the donkey cart, and the three returned home.


    Qiao Dami expressed a desire for chicken legs, so Qiao Xiaomai stewed the wild chicken that Tong Sang had given them the day before.


    The wild chicken weighed just over three pounds, and after removing the feathers and the innards, there wasn¡¯t much meat left, the three of them ate it clean.


    After dinner, Qiao Dami patted his round belly contentedly, sighing, ¡°Tong gege[Sang] is really good, he can hunt, so we don¡¯t have to spend copper coins to buy meat.¡±


    At his words, Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s dark eyes turned round and round, her naturally smiling eyes curved, ¡°Then I¡¯ll go up the mountainter and see if I can set some traps and catch something like a wild chicken or rabbit.¡±


    ¡°Really? I¡¯m going too, I¡¯m going too!¡± Qiao Dami jumped up excitedly.


    Qiao Changshun shook his head, ¡°Tong Sang has been learning hunting and trapping with the vige chief since he was a child, and there is a technique to setting traps.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s okay, just dig casually. If we can catch something, that would be great, if not, it¡¯s no big deal.¡± Qiao Xiaomai said with a smile.


    ¡°Alright, then you two can go.¡±


    ¡°Let Dami follow you to the fields, if there¡¯s anything, he can run errands.¡± Qiao Xiaomai pushed Qiao Dami to his side.


    Qiao Dami pouted, he wanted to dig traps.


    However, thinking of his father¡¯s limp, he withdrew his pouting little mouth, he¡¯d follow her up the mountain next time.


    Qiao Xiaomai ruffled his hair, ¡°Be a good boy, next time we go to town, I¡¯ll buy you chicken legs.¡±


    At her words, the unhappiness on Qiao Dami¡¯s face disappeared, and his smile returned, ¡°Okay!¡±

 Chapter 97 - 97: Accidentally Witnessed Again

    Chapter 97: identally Witnessed Again


    Trantor: 549690339


    So, the three members of the Qiao family split into two groups, with Qiao Changshun driving the Donkey Cart and Qiao Dami weeding the fields, while Qiao Xiaomai took a carrying basket and hiked up the mountain.


    Last time when she was collecting firewood on the mountain, she had explored around the whole foot of the mountain. This time, she walked straight up along the trail until there was no more road to follow, and that¡¯s when she stopped.


    There were no more paths, she looked around, took out a machete from inside her storage space, and slowly started moving towards the right.


    Her purpose of the mountain trip this time was not to set any sort of trap, but to fabricate an origin story for the white chili nt she had.


    However, to divert attention, she used a small shovel to dig out a small pit about a meter deep and covered it with tree branches she chopped off with the machete.


    This hastily-constructed trap was an utter rudimentary, she pulled out the potted white chili from her spatial storage, dug up the soil it was potted in, wrapped the chili nt in the cloth and carefully ced it in her carrying basket.


    After storing the flower pot in her spatial storage and dusting off the soil on her clothes, she headed down the mountain and back to her home.


    Once she got home, she nned to tell Qiao Changshun that she found the chili nt on the mountain, and would naturally then take out the seeds of the chili to nt in their vegetable garden at home.


    Currently, she only had one nt, butter on, she would surely have more. This process would take a few years, but she was not in a hurry.


    She had plenty of ways to make money.


    She didn¡¯t yearn for extravagant wealth, just settling for an assuredly peaceful life as andy, free from any worries about food and drink, and asionally having the chance of going out for a stroll to admire the scenery ¨C this was a life she would be satisfied with.


    Fantasising about her wonderful future, her steps be lighter. She might asionally leap to catch a moth or kick a chunk of soil as if it were a sandbag. She radiated an aura of bliss and joy.


    Once she hadpletely walked out of the woods, the person who had been following her silently stopped.


    Puzzlement was written on his usually calm face. His thin lips tightly pressed together, hands clenched into fists, his eyes glowed with a scintiting radiance.


    This morning, he was already certain that the being before him had changed at her core. He did not expect another astonishing scene to add to his incredulity. A knife, the likes of which he had never seen before, appeared out of thin air; a nt he had never seen before; a pit that seemed to be a trap but was terribly shoddy.


    What¡­ What was she nning to do?


    Where did shee from?


    What surprising or peculiar attributes did she possess?


    What did she aim to achieve?


    All these questions swirled in his mind without yielding any answers.


    Having hidden behind a tree for quite a while, he slowly made his way out and walked down the trail leading home.


    Qiao Xiaomai had no idea her actions were observed by someone. After reaching home, she collected theundry she had washed the previous day, took out her sewing basket, and prepared to continue sewing clothes.


    Not long after, the faint sound of horse hooves approached. It was Yuan Ding delivering ceramic pots.


    ¡°How did the tofu pudding sell today?¡± Qiao Xiaomai asked as she transferred the ceramic pots from the cart.


    ¡°Just like yesterday, they sold out very quickly.¡± Yuan Ding replied cheerfully, ¡°Miss Qiao, the Shopkeeper asked me to ry to you that tomorrow, try to fill up all eight pots.¡±


    This morning, there were six pots of tofu pudding, Shopkeeper He ate four bowls of it, he¡¯d been having tofu pudding as his meals these few days.


    ¡°I¡¯ll try my best.¡± Xiaomai smiled.


    She had spent eighteen taels on purchasing the field today and had to earn it back as soon as possible!


    After Yuan Ding left, Xiaomai resumed her sewing work.. About fifteen minutester, the sound of galloping horse hooves could be heard outside again, along with a stranger¡¯s voice, ¡°May 1 ask if Miss Qiao is home?¡±

 Chapter 98 - 98: Coming to the Door

    Chapter 98: Coming to the Door


    Trantor: 549690339


    Qiao Xiaomai felt puzzled, put down the needle and thread in her hand, and went to open the courtyard door.


    There were two people standing outside. One was a chubby middle-aged man with a smile like Maitreya Buddha, and the other was a handsome young man dressed in a moon-white long gown. This young man was tall and straight, his features very symmetrical, and was smiling at her, presenting an image of gentle refinement.


    Behind them was a luxurious and exquisite carriage, coupled with their attire, it was clear that they came from lofty backgrounds.


    Qiao Xiaomai felt even more confused and asked, ¡°Who might you be?¡±


    ¡°My name is Shen Bai, nice to meet you, Miss Qiao.¡± The handsome young man opened his mouth to speak with a smile, his voice as pleasing as pearls falling onto a jade te.


    Qiao Xiaomai nodded slightly, returning a light smile, ¡°Nice to meet you too, Mr. Shen. May I ask why you are looking for me?¡±


    ¡°Miss Qiao, this is Shopkeeper Zhou of the Zuixian Building. We¡¯vee to inquire about the cold jelly noodles, tofu, and white jade flower.¡± Shen Bai stated their purpose of the visit straightforwardly.


    Upon hearing this, Qiao Xiaomai finally understood, and all her confusion vanished.


    Bailu Town had two significant restaurants, one was the Ji Wei Ju, and the other was the Zuixian Building. These two restaurants were located at either end of Bailu Town¡¯s main road, facing each other from east to west.


    Now, Ji Wei Ju had a monopoly on the town¡¯s market with its cheap cold jelly noodles and expensive tofu and bean curd. It was within her expectations that the Shopkeeper of Zuixian Building woulde looking for her.


    However¡­


    ¡°I¡¯ve already sold the recipe for the cold jelly noodles to Ji Wei Ju. As for the tofu and bean curd, I make only enough for Ji Wei Ju each day,¡± Qiao Xiaomai exined sincerely.


    Without any change in expression, Shen Bai replied, ¡°Miss Qiao, may Shopkeeper Zhou and 1e in for a chat?¡±


    ¡°Please,e in,¡± Qiao Xiaomai said after a moment¡¯s thought. She moved aside, allowing the two of them into her courtyard.


    When they were seated, she served them well water inrge coarse porcin bowls.


    She had no choice but to use cold water when seeing guests, as there was no hot water bottle and she couldn¡¯t possibly heat the water now.


    Shen Bai nced around the small farmyard. Seeing it was clean and tidy with everything neatly arranged, his impression of Qiao Xiaomai further improved.


    From his investigations, all four dishes were created by Qiao Xiaomai alone. She really was a clever girl.


    ¡°Miss Qiao, are you willing to sell the recipe for Bean Curd and White Jade Flower?¡± Shen Bai got straight to the point, not one for small talk.


    Qiao Xiaomaiughed and started to do the math for him, her words the same as when she refused Shopkeeper He. ¡°I can make fifty catties of tofu every day at ten Wen per catty, so a day¡¯s amount is¡­¡±


    As she spoke, the figure she proposed left Shen Bai and Shopkeeper Zhou stunned.


    ¡°I prefer a steady ie, so I¡¯m sorry for wasting your time,¡± she said.


    Shen Bai stared at her face for a moment beforeughing. His eyes glistened in the sunlight. ¡°Miss Qiao, you could make more of it. Don¡¯t always supply it to Ji Wei Ju. The Zuixian Building is notcking in any aspectpared to them. Shopkeeper Zhou is willing to offer you fifteen wen for each catty.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai widened her eyes in surprise. The price had suddenly increased by five wen. Inparison to Shopkeeper He¡¯s penny-pinching, the person in front of her was seriously generous!


    An extra five Wen per catty would increase her daily earnings by hundreds of Wen. She was genuinely tempted.


    She hadn¡¯t signed any contract with Shopkeeper He for the tofu and bean curd. She could supply them to the Zuixian Building.


    However, she wasn¡¯t sure about the integrity of Zuixian Building. When she first started selling the cold jelly noodles, she had hesitated between the two establishments until Tong Sang rmended Ji Wei Ju..

 Chapter 99 - 99: Each Sentence Strikes the Heart

    Chapter 99: Each Sentence Strikes the Heart


    Trantor: 549690339


    Except¡­


    Qiao Xiaomai looks at therge grinding stone in her own shed.


    Shopkeeper He gifted her this grindstone and loaned her a donkey to increase production. But this increase wasn¡¯t meant for the Zuixian Building.


    ¡°Mr. Shen, Manager Zhou, your price is very tempting, but I¡¯m sorry. The tofu and bean curd that I¡¯m making can only supply to Jieweiju right now.¡± Qiao Xiaomai reluctantly refuses.


    ¡°Twenty wen.¡± Shen Bai increases the price with a smile.


    Qiao Xiaomai¡±!!!¡±


    The amount of copper coin she would receive each day would double!


    She was more than just a little tempted now!


    ¡°Mr. Shen.¡± Qiao Xiaomai points awkwardly to therge grindstone beneath the shed, exining, ¡°This grindstone was given to me by Shopkeeper He, and he also loaned me a donkey. I don¡¯t think it¡¯s right to use what he gave me topete with him.¡±


    A look of surprise appeared on Shen Bai¡¯s serious face as he asked, ¡°Lady, how much silver did you sell your recipe for cold jelly noodles for?¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai blinks and her long eyshes flutter, ¡°Several tens of taels.¡±


    ¡°Jieweiju recouped that amount in just a few days, so Shopkeeper He giving you a grindstone and loaning you a donkey doesn¡¯t begin to make up for the money he took advantage of. Even if he gave you a donkey directly, he¡¯s still benefiting.¡±


    ¡°So you don¡¯t need to feel guilty. We¡¯re discussing business here and tofu bean curd is a rare delicacy, naturally, it goes to the highest bidder.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai stays silent.


    His words sounded quite reasonable.


    Initially, she didn¡¯t care much about the price for her cold jelly noodles, but now she can¡¯t help feeling a bit tricked¡­


    ¡°Let me consider it, I¡¯lle to Zuixian Building in a couple of days.¡± She didn¡¯t refuse this time.


    Shen Bai began tough, ¡°Lady Qiao, are you really not willing to sell your recipe?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not selling.¡± Qiao Xiaomai was quick to refuse this time.


    ¡°Let¡¯s do some calctions, Lady Qiao, the tofu bean curd you are making now can only supply Bailu Town. But beyond Bailu Town, there are vastnds in Daqi, and you alone can¡¯t bring tofu bean curd to those areas.¡±


    ¡°Those areas are just being left empty. Aren¡¯t you considering making money selling tofu bean curd there?¡±


    Looking at the smiling Shen Bai before her, Qiao Xiaomai couldn¡¯t help but want to give him a thumbs up.


    This is what a true businessman looks like, each sentence struck a chord in her heart.


    Compared to Shopkeeper He, who only ever tried to haggle every single penny down, the man in front of her was clearly superior.


    Seeing that Qiao Xiaomai has not obviously rejected him, Shen Bai smiled and continued, ¡°I can assure you that we in Zuixian Building will not interfere in the tofu bean curd trade in Bailu Town, or even in Huai¡¯an County. You can continue to make money from this business.¡±


    ¡°Lady, please name your price. As long as it¡¯s not too outrageous, we at Zuixian Building will ept it.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s the standard for ¡®outrageous¡¯?¡± Qiao Xiaomai asks with sparkling eyes.


    ¡°For example, the number you mentioned earlier, the amount of silver that could be earned in a hundred years.¡± Shen Baiughs lightly, but there is no condescension or disdain in his voice.


    Qiao Xiaomai couldn¡¯t help but touch her nose. All right, she knew what she¡¯d just proposed was a bit excessive.


    ¡°This is a big deal; I need to think about it.¡±


    ¡°Of course. As for the recipe for tofu bean curd, however, I hope that we, the Zuixian Building, can be your first choice over Jieweiju.¡± Shen Bai put away his smile and became serious.


    Qiao Xiaomai tilts her head, looks him up and down and curiously asks, ¡°Mr.. Shen, it¡¯s just tofu and bean curd, is it worth such a big investment?¡±

 Chapter 100 - 100: What About Those Fifteen Acres?

    Chapter 100: What About Those Fifteen Acres?


    Trantor: 549690339


    Tofu, in the future world, is merely a dish.


    Tofu pudding, in the future world, is just a snack, a breakfast item.


    Such a high stake for this? Isn¡¯t it too much?


    Hearing this, Shen Bai showed a smile on his straight face, and exined warmly, ¡°Wherever Ji Wei Ju is located, there must be a Zuixian Building. In Bailu Town, the two businesses were originally on a par. However, now with the fresh food provided by the youngdy, I¡¯m afraid the earnings of Ji Wei Ju this month will multiply several times.¡±


    ¡°I see.¡± Qiao Xiaomai nodded with understanding in her small face.


    ¡°Let me think about it.¡± She also put on a serious face.


    If this deal goes through, the Qiao family will leap from being slightly well-off to bingrgendowners in an instant.


    Upon hearing this, Shen Bai stood up, ¡°Then I¡¯ll wait for the good news from thedy.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai only smiled slightly, not daring to respond casually.


    After these two distinguished guests left, Qiao Xiaomai closed the yard gate and looked at therge mill in the shed. Various thoughts were spinning in her mind.


    Qiao Changshun and Qiao Dami did not return until sunset, their cart full of fresh grass, and both of them smiling. After a whole afternoon¡¯s work, these two were not tired at all, and instead seemed more spirited.


    At dinner, Qiao Xiaomai mentioned the chilli pepper. Qiao Changshun and Qiao Dami only nced at it without saying much. They fully trusted Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s words and thought this pepper was really from the mountains.


    Qiao Changshun, full of enthusiasm, said, ¡°I think it¡¯s time to water the wheat field. Let¡¯s do it tomorrow and bring all the wooden basins and barrels.¡±


    Now with the donkey cart as a tool, the task of watering has be much easier.


    This was the first time doing such an easy task, and he could not wait to try it.


    ¡°There¡¯s no rush. Let¡¯s go to town tomorrow.¡± said Qiao Xiaomai.


    ¡°Right, we¡¯re almost out of soybeans.¡± Qiao Changshun nodded. The hundred pounds of soybeans they boughtst time were gone in three or four days.


    ¡°I think, thend we bought is still too little. If we use so many beans every day, and only nt on five acres, it¡¯s a bit too less.¡± he added.


    ¡°Yes.¡± Qiao Xiaomai nodded.


    At the beginning, she only thought about doing business and didn¡¯t think about farming. But now it seems that she hadn¡¯t thought it through.


    Not only soybeans, sweet potatoes and chilli peppers, but she also has potatoes and corn in her space, which all neednd to cultivate.


    In her opinion, she should buy a hill¡­


    ¡°Don¡¯t rush to buynd. Father, when our family originally divided, we only got fifteen acres of farnd. ording to the Daqi Laws, you should have thirty acres.¡±


    The Daqi Laws stipted that each adult male was granted a hundred acres ofnd, while females and children were not granted anynd.


    At the time of the division, Qiao Changshun, Zhuang Luhe, and the original owner, who was only four or five years old at the time, should have had thirty acres ofnd. But for many years, this family of four only had fifteen acres ofnd.


    The remaining fifteen acres were all upied by the Sun Family.


    Back then, Sun Junyan¡¯s mother upied these fifteen acres ofnd on the grounds that Sun Junyan needed to study, and crying and making a fuss about it, thus upying it for a decade.


    Mentioning this matter, the wrinkles on Qiao Changshun¡¯s face deepened again, ¡°Your fifth uncle¡¯s attempt to study¡­ it¡¯s not easy either¡­¡±


    The morend you have, the more you produce, the more silver you can earn.


    Now his family is not short of silver. This fifteen acres ofnd, just let it go¡­


    The answer of Qiao Changshun was within Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s expectation, and she secretly pursed her lips, ¡°Father, I¡¯ll speak bluntly here, if the people from the old housee and make trouble again, I will definitely take back these fifteen acres ofnd.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s absolutely unreasonable for ournd to be upied by others, and we need to pay out money to buy morend.¡±


    Qiao Changshun stuffed a steamed bun into his mouth and answered vaguely.


    Seeing the wrinkles on his face, Qiao Xiaomai swallowed the harsh words that were on the tip of her tongue.


    Forget it, anyway, she is the head of this family now. As for Qiao Changshun, change wille gradually..

 Chapter 101 - 101: Buy!

    Chapter 101: Buy!


    Trantor: 549690339


    The following day, after Yuan Ding carted away the tofu and bean curd with his horse cart, Qiao Changshun also hitched up the donkey cart, taking his family of three towards Bailu Town.


    This was a new experience for both Qiao Changshun and Qiao Dami.


    In Anping Vige, few families owned a ox or donkey cart. Therefore, the donkey cart they were currently riding on was as valuable as the BMW driven by Qiao Xiaomai in the future.


    Qiao Dami kept smiling, while Qiao Changshun¡¯s face remained serious, but the sound of his whip was very crisp.


    However, all of his whip swings were in vain, not a single one could bear to fall on the donkey.


    Qiao Xiaomai found it amusing. She pinched Qiao Dami¡¯s chubby cheeks, and started cracking and eating sunflower seeds from her knapsack.


    Interestingly, sunflower seeds were rare , they were not avable during the previous dynasty, and were introduced from overseas along with sweet potatoes, costing more than cloud rice cakes.


    Seeing her eating sunflower seeds, Qiao Dami also extended her tiny hand to grab some.


    The wind blowing gently, sunshine over their heads, the donkey cart leisurely entered Bailu Town.


    Qiao Xiaomai first went to see Shopkeeper He.


    When Shopkeeper He saw her, his smile nearly turned him into Shopkeeper Zhou, ¡°Miss Qiao is here, pleasee in!¡±


    When he saw Qiao Changshun, he hastily greeted, ¡°This must be Brother Qiao, nice to meet you.¡±


    It was Qiao Changshun¡¯s first time at Jiwei Residence, so he was slightly restrained. Hearing this, he merely returned a smile, expressed his humility, and then followed Qiao Xiaomai into the building. He was even less rxed than Qiao Dami.


    Shopkeeper He served tea and snacks, then finally turned his gaze to Qiao Xiaomai, ¡°What kind of good money-making scheme do you have this time?¡±


    At his words, a dimpled smile spread across Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s face, making her look both amiable and clever. ¡°Yesterday, Manager Zhou from Zuixian Building came to find me, he said he wants to buy the recipe of tofu and Bean Curd. The price is up to me, as long as it isn¡¯t too outrageous, he will agree.¡±


    ¡°And he also mentioned that I suffered a loss with the previous cold jelly noodles deal, and that you got a huge bargain.¡±


    Shopkeeper He¡±¡­¡±


    His smile froze on his face.


    After a moment, he smoothed his beard with a hand and said solemnly, ¡°Miss Qiao, there is always a trap underneath a great profitable venture, you should be cautious.¡±


    ¡°I have thought about it a thousand times. If it weren¡¯t for the mill and the donkey you gave us, 1 would have agreed on the spot.¡± Qiao Xiaomai looked at him with clear eyes, and her expression was very calm. ¡°I¡¯m a country bumpkin, not very knowledgeable, and it¡¯s hard for me to resist the conditions Zhou proposed.¡±


    Shopkeeper He stared at her, took a deep breath, ¡°Alright, how much silver do you want?¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai was too cunning. He wouldn¡¯t be able to fool her in a few words, to might as well state the conditions directly.


    ¡°Oh, you also want to buy?¡± Qiao Xiaomai was surprised. Looking at the previous actions of shopkeeper He, they were not rted to the word generosity.


    ¡°Buy.¡± Shopkeeper He nodded with a strained expression.


    The tofu and bean curd seemed to be just a dish, but this was not an era of abundant materials like the future. Here, vegetables were scarce, tofu could be mixed with many kinds of meats and vegetables, thus creating many new dishes.


    Moreover, it made full use of soybeans. Previously, soybeans were mostly used to make soy sauce, or cooked into bean rice, but due to the bloating caused by excessive consumption, people¡¯s staple food was wheat and Dami and Xiaomi.


    Now they have tofu, which really brings out the value of soybeans.


    Most importantly, only Qiao Xiaomai knows this method of making tofu and bean curd.


    It¡¯s just a small piece of tofu, but if it monopolized the entire Daqi, the profits it would bring would significantly outweigh the amount of silver spent on buying the recipe.


    Moreover, such a delicious thing should be brought to the Capital City, where the rich and powerful congregate. It was a waste to just exist in Bailu Town. Therefore, he would buy this recipe!

 Chapter 102 - 102: She Wants to Be a Landlady

    Chapter 102: She Wants to Be a Landy


    Trantor: 549690339


    Qiao Xiaomaiughed, ¡°But, 1 don¡¯t want to sell.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Shopkeeper He¡¯s smile froze. If she wasn¡¯t nning to sell, why all the fuss?


    After pondering for a moment, he asked, ¡°Are you worried about offending Zuixian Building?¡± Without waiting for Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s reply, he quickly reassured her, ¡°Don¡¯t worry about that. With Jiweiju on your side, Zuixian Building wouldn¡¯t dare to act against you.¡±


    ¡°The one who visited with Shopkeeper Zhou yesterday, a man named Shen Bai,¡± said Qiao Xiaomai.


    Shopkeeper He was at a loss for words.


    A twitch appeared at the corner of his mouth as he cursed internally. No wonder she had dered her right to set the price. So it was Shen Bai who hade to Bailu Town!


    At the court of Daqi, there were two chancellors. The owner of Jiweiju was the left chancellor, and Zuixian Building was supported by the right chancellor.


    Shen Bai was none other than the sole son of the current right chancellor, Shen Jingsong.


    Anxiety gnawed at Shopkeeper He. The amount of silver Shen Bai could manipte far exceeded his own. In a contest of wealth, he was bound to lose against Shen Bai.


    However, to stand by helplessly while Zuixian Building took over the business of tofu and bean curd would be even more painful than slicing off his own flesh.


    ¡°Miss Qiao, how about waiting a few more days while 1 ry your asking price to the owner? Let¡¯s see how much silver they are willing to pay,¡± he suggested.


    Qiao Xiaomai nodded, ¡°Alright.¡±


    After a moment of pause, she added, ¡°Actually, it doesn¡¯t necessarily have to be money.¡±


    ¡°Hmm?¡± Shopkeeper He widened his eyes, ¡°What do you mean, Miss Qiao?¡±


    ¡°I would eptnd as well¡­.¡±


    ¡°Oh, 1 see.¡± Shopkeeper He stroked his beard in understanding.


    The current Emperor promotes farming overmerce. For most people,nd is the most secure asset, especially for vigers. To them,nd was their lifeline.


    Themon practice was to purchasend whenever one had enough money. Thends yielded profit, which was then used to acquire morends, eventually turning them into majorndlords.


    Among thesendlords, the ambitious ones would build manors, foster armies, and be local tyrants.


    When the Emperor fails in his governance, these tyrants would rise and rebel.


    The fall of the previous dynasty and the establishment of Daqi all happened this way.


    However, because of these incidents, the ¡®Daqi Law¡¯ clearly limits the amount ofnd amon civilian could possess to no more than five hundred acres. This effectively restricts the development ofnded gentry.


    This regtion might work in sparsely popted areas, but in ces like Bailu Town, the rules were practically obsolete.


    ¡°Miss Qiao, Bailu Town has arge poption. If you are nning to trade fornd, you might face some difficulties.¡±


    The poption was so dense that the allocation from the ¡®Daqi Law¡¯, which assigned a hundred acres per person, had been reduced to just thirty acres per person. It would indeed be difficult for Qiao Xiaomai to exchange her recipe for arge plot ofnd.


    ¡°Then, give me an approximate figure in a few days.¡± Qiao Xiaomai seemed aware of this situation and didn¡¯t say more.


    ¡°Alright,¡± Shopkeeper He agreed.


    After thinking for a moment, Qiao Xiaomai added, ¡°1 don¡¯t need that much. I may sell the recipe for tofu and bean curd to both of you. After all, 1 can¡¯t afford to offend either Jiweiju or Zuixian Building.¡±


    Shopkeeper He was at a loss for words again.


    If the other party were Shopkeeper Zhou, he would certainly promise right away. But now the other party was Shen Bai.


    He frowned in frustration, ¡°I will respond after consulting the owner.¡±


    ¡°No need for too muchnd. I want to establish good rtionships with both families, in case I need assistance in the future,¡± Qiao Xiaomai added..

 Chapter 103 - 103: The Treasure of the Town and County

    Chapter 103: The Treasure of the Town and County


    Trantor: 549690339


    In the ancient era, where imperial power was supreme, it was essential to curry favor with the nobility or find a powerful backer.


    Originally, she was selling cold jelly noodles as a means of improving the Qiao Family¡¯s poverty-stricken state. Making tofu was an intuitive next step.


    The tofu she sold in the future was not expensive. Her initial offer was six wen per catty, a very sincere price. She initially nned to umte wealth over time with a steady stream of business.


    But during her dealings with Shopkeeper He, a few words led to a sharp increase in the price, almost reaching that of pork.


    So in just a few days, what was initially a small business of tofu and bean curd unexpectedly became a hotmodity bid upon by top establishments like the Zuixian Building.


    This was something she hadn¡¯t expected at the start.


    After Shen Bai and Shopkeeper Zhou left yesterday, she reassessed the situation and decided to sell the recipe in exchange fornd.


    The people from Zuixian Building were the most prestigious and prestigious people she had met so far. They did not bully her, a simple vige girl, into giving up her valuable creation. With this in mind, she decided to sell the recipe at a half price.


    In the future, she ns to create many more new things and securing a powerful backer is a necessity.


    Shopkeeper He understood Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s meaning, stroked his beard, and solemnly said, ¡°Miss Qiao needn¡¯t have such worries, at least in Bailu Town or even in Huai¡¯an County, you can conduct your business with peace of mind.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai showed a questioning look in her eyes and blinked, ¡°Please exin.¡±


    ¡°Because the headmaster of Bailu Academy resides here. He is the tutor of the current emperor and used to hold the office of Grand Tutor. Even though he has been out of office for many years, his status still carries weight, just like a mountain suppressing all evil spirits in this area.¡±


    ¡°So, you can conduct your business with peace of mind that no one will dare insult you.¡±


    Bailu Academy attracts many official¡¯s sons, even the crown prince woulde to learn from the headmaster every year. Thus, no one would dare to bully or rob in Bailu Town for fear of his status. Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s concerns were, therefore, unwarranted.


    Of course, the actions of the Sun Family from the Qiao family were a domestic issue and did note into this discussion.


    ¡°So that¡¯s how it is¡ª¡± Qiao Xiaomai let out a long ¡®oh¡¯, Bailu Town seemed to possess such a jewel that she was unaware of.


    However, since she had already spoken her mind and genuinely wanted to acquirend, she said, ¡°Thanks for telling me all this, Shopkeeper He. But I still want to exchange the tofu and bean curd recipe fornd. Please discuss with Shopkeeper Zhou of Zuixian Building and see how muchnd you two can give me.¡±


    Shopkeeper He clucked his tongue a couple of times. Qiao Xiaomai usually disyed sharp business acumen, but now she seemed weak, which was unusual.


    ¡°Alright, 1 will send for Shopkeeper Zhou and Young Master Shen right away.¡±


    After he gave his instructions to a waiter, a quarter of an hourter, Shen Bai and Shopkeeper Zhou arrived side by side.


    Shen Bai hadn¡¯t changed from yesterday, tall and aloof, cultured and refined.


    Shopkeeper Zhou too hadn¡¯t changed, still quiet and smiling like the Maitreya Buddha.


    After listening to Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s words, they exchanged a nce, surprise flickering through their eyes.


    However, this oue was within their expectations. Neither of them dared to offend Qiao Xiaomai, so they had to divide the recipe between them.


    Shen Bai was slightly disappointed that they could not monopolize the recipe, but with the Prime Minister backing Zuixian Building having to share the recipe was a better oue than he had anticipated.


    ¡°What kind ofnd would Miss Qiao like?¡± Shen Bai asked aloud..

 Chapter 104 - 104: Finalized

    Chapter 104: Finalized


    Trantor: 549690339


    ¡°Hmm¡­ I want the fields to grow crops, at least a medium quality field.¡± Qiao Xiaomai voiced her thoughts, which she had considered well in advance.


    ¡°Medium quality field.¡± Shen Bai looked at Shopkeeper Zhou.


    Shopkeeper Zhou quickly responded, ¡°We have a hundred acres of top-quality fields under the name of Zuixian Building, but these fields are all upied, producing the grains and vegetables we use daily.¡±


    Shopkeeper He also said, ¡°Same goes for us at Jiwei Residence.¡±


    Shen Bai turned to Qiao Xiaomai, ¡°Miss Qiao, how muchnd do you expect to trade in return?¡±


    ¡°Three hundred acres of medium-quality fields.¡±


    In Bailu Town, the price of low-qualitynd is three taels per acre, medium-qualitynd six taels per acre, and high-qualitynd ten taels per acre. Qiao Xiaomai was half selling, half giving away the recipe, and she estimated each business to provide one thousand taels. So, divide one thousand by six and then multiply by two, she rounded it to a whole number, three hundred acres.


    When she voiced this number, Shopkeeper He, Shen Bai, and Shopkeeper Zhou swiftly calcted the conversion in their minds. ording to the price of tofu and bean curd, a thousand taels was indeed a favorable deal.


    They could recoup this thousand taels within a month from their tofu and bean curd business in the vast Daqi region.


    After thinking, Shen Bai looked at Shopkeeper Zhou and asked with a smile, ¡°Shopkeeper He, what do you think?¡±


    ¡°In response to the young master, 1 need to discuss this with the business owner. I can¡¯t make the decision alone,¡± Shopkeeper He respectfully replied. ¡°Then, 1¡¯11 give these one hundred and fifty acres to Miss Qiao first. If your boss cannot afford it, feel free to seek me.¡±


    Hearing this, Shopkeeper He chuckled dryly but said nothing.


    Shen Baiughed again and turned to Qiao Xiaomai, ¡°Miss Qiao, I will have someone prepare it immediately. Everything can be settled by the afternoon. You can tour around the town ande to Zuixian Building to find me in the afternoon.¡±


    ¡°Sure.¡± Qiao Xiaomai nodded, her impression of Shen Bai improving a bit more.


    No nonsense, generous, and decisive in handling affairs.


    Seriously, an excellent business partner.


    ¡°Then, Master Shen, you can have someone soak some soybeans in clean water. I¡¯ll teach you the recipe at Zuixian Building this afternoon.¡±


    Shen Bai agreed cheerfully. He too appreciated Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s decisiveness.


    Seeing the two had reached an agreement, Shopkeeper He looked at Qiao Xiaomai and chuckled, ¡°Miss Qiao, you¡¯d have to wait a few more days for our side.¡±


    ¡°No problem, I¡¯m not in a hurry.¡± Qiao Xiaomai responded with a faint smile.


    As for farming, she was not worried at all.


    After settling the main issue, Shen Bai and Shopkeeper Zhou left. Qiao Xiaomai left Jiwei Residence with Qiao Dami and Qiao Changshun, nning to wander around the town and buy some things.


    Sitting on the donkey cart, Qiao Changshun wiped his sweaty hands on his body. He and Qiao Dami had been sitting nervously to the side, hardly daring to breathe, while Qiao Xiaomai was cheerfully chatting with the wealthy businessmen. He waspletely soaked with sweat from his brief sit.


    Such a big deal, involving hundreds of acres ofnd, Qiao Xiaomai had settled it in no time.


    Such courage and daring, even if he lived another thirty years, he might not have it.


    His daughter had changed so much.


    ¡°Xiaomai, our family really relies on you.¡± He sighed.


    Qiao Xiaomai smiled, ¡°It¡¯s natural.¡±


    ¡°Sister is amazing!¡± Qiao Dami nodded his little head, fully agreeing with Qiao Changshun¡¯s words.


    Qiao Changshun wiped his body again, waiting for the sweat to dry up in his palms before picking up the whip.


    His mind was still a little dazed. Those amounts of silver and the farnd were circling in his mind, numbers he had never dreamed of before.


    Seeing him in a daze, Qiao Xiaomai said, ¡°Let¡¯s go buy the soybeans first.¡±


    ¡°Sister, didn¡¯t you sell the recipe?¡± Qiao Dami asked curiously..

 Chapter 105 - 105: Her Way of Making Money

    Chapter 105: Her Way of Making Money


    Trantor: 549690339


    ¡°If we can¡¯t make tofu, we can do something else,¡± Qiao Xiaomai said with a grin.


    ¡°How about soybean stew with pork feet?¡± Qiao Dami tilted his head, his big eyes sparkling brightly.


    That dish is so aromatic and delicious!


    ¡°Alright,¡± Qiao Xiaomai agreed, a fond look in her eyes. She reached out and pinched his cheeks. ¡°What else do you want to eat? Just say it out, we¡¯ll buy it all today.¡±


    ¡°Really?!¡± Qiao Dami¡¯s eyes widened with delight.


    ¡°Really!¡± Qiao Xiaomaiughed and nodded.


    With a look of pure joy, Qiao Dami began to count on his fingers, ¡°Chicken legs, pork feet, sugar toys, ribs, fish soup, Glutinous Rice Cake¡­¡±


    Qiao Changshun, who had drifted off, snapped to attention and promptly intervened, ¡°We can¡¯t buy all of that! We won¡¯t be able to eat it all, we won¡¯t be able to eat it all.¡±


    Though Qiao Xiaomai had just closed a significant business deal, it had involved trading their tofu recipe fornd.


    The silver they currently had wasrgely the profits from the recent sale of tofu and bean curd. They still hadn¡¯t paid the spring tax, they needed to hire people to harvest the wheat, and without the tofu business, they couldn¡¯t afford to splurge like this.


    It¡¯s not possible. It¡¯s not possible.


    ¡°Let¡¯s just buy chicken legs for now.¡±


    They had just had a wild chicken yesterday. Eating meat and white flour every single day was a far cry from the days where they could barely fill their stomachs. This kind of diet was pure extravagance.


    Qiao Xiaomai didn¡¯t know what Qiao Changshun was worrying about financially. Seeing the light dim in Qiao Dami¡¯s eyes, she quickly interjected, ¡°Dad, the money is with me, I¡¯m the one who decides.¡±


    Qiao Changshun choked in surprise, then advised with much earnestness, ¡°Now that the tofu recipe is sold, we won¡¯t have steady ieing in. With just thend, it will be some time before we see returns. You need to be careful with the silver in your hands.¡±


    ¡°We will have ie. If we can¡¯t sell tofu or bean curd, we can sell bean sprouts.¡±


    ¡°Bean sprouts?¡±


    Qiao Changshun and Qiao Dami echoed in surprise. What were those?


    ¡°They are the tender shoots thate out after you soak the soybeans in water. They are edible. I tried them in secret before. They tasted good,¡± Qiao Xiaomai exined.


    Yesterday, Shen Bai had offered to make way for her in the markets of Bailu Town, or even the whole Huai¡¯an County. But after a night of consideration, she had decided to stop selling tofu and bean curd, and nned to switch to selling bean sprouts and dried tofu skins instead.


    Bean sprouts, that was easy, she had made them herself before.


    As for dried tofu skins, it would be trouble-free too. Dried tofu skins are simply the skins that formed on the surface of the cooling soy milk. You could pick them out with chopsticks or your hands, dry them, and vo ¨C dried tofu skins.


    Compared to tofu and bean curd, Qiao Xiaomai personally liked dried tofu skins more, whether they were stir-fried or used in soup or hotpot, she loved them all.


    But this would require patience and was more troublesome than tofu or bean curd. With her current pot, mass production was impossible. She nned to umte more first, then sell them at sky-high prices.


    Aside from bean sprouts and dried tofu skins, she could also make dried tofu.


    Dried tofu, as a kind of snack, was more popr than tofu.


    Furthermore, she could marinate tofu and sell dried tofu, which was quite a popr snack inter periods.


    Of course, the mostmon one was deep-fried stinky tofu.


    All in all, just using soybeans, she had several ways of making money. Qiao Changshun really didn¡¯t need to worry about their daily ie.


    ¡°Dad, don¡¯t worry. Though we¡¯ve sold the tofu and bean curd business, we can still make money every day in the future. Feel free to eat and buy, we won¡¯t be short of money.¡± Qiao Xiaomai waved her little hand, reaching into her basket and grabbed a handful of sunflower seeds.


    ¡°Here, eat these as we walk, don¡¯t worry about them being wasted, I¡¯ll buy ten or eight jin when we get back!¡±


    From today onwards, her identity will forever be three words: Rich Woman.

 Chapter 106 - 106 Buying, buying, buying

    Chapter 106: Buying, buying, buying


    Trantor: 549690339


    Qiao Xiaomai spoke with an air of confidence that left Qiao Changshun somewhat dubious.


    Qiao Dami, being younger, hadn¡¯t thought much. He believed whatever Qiao Xiaomai said. He took the melon seeds from Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s hand and began nibbling them one by one, he loved this salty snack!


    ¡°Dad, let¡¯s go, let¡¯s buy some soybeans first,¡± Qiao Xiaomai suggested.


    He didn¡¯t seem to believe her now, but once she actually produced the goods, he surely would.


    Qiao Changshun paused for a moment, then slowly drove the donkey cart towards the grain shop.


    After buying two hundred catties of soybeans, rice, and flour, the cart was half full. Then they bought a variety of seasonings: oils, salt, soy sauce, vinegar, and finally visited the pork stand.


    Bones had to be bought; bone soup was nutritious and delicious.


    Pig intestines, she also craved a bit of this. Buy it.


    Pork belly ¨C she hadn¡¯t realy indulged in meat since they arrived. Buy it. Make braised pork when they get home.


    And of course, pig¡¯s feet were also necessary.


    Seeing the live chickens being sold, Qiao Xiaomai couldn¡¯t help but salivate; suddenly, she had a strong craving for braised chicken feet, duck neck, and chicken wings.


    Unfortunately, the town didn¡¯t sell these separately, only entire chickens, so she gave up on that idea.


    When all was said and done, several taels of silver were gone and the donkey cart was filled up.


    By this time it was noon, and Qiao Xiaomai felt a bit hungry, so she suggested, ¡°Shall we go to the Zuixian Building for lunch?¡±


    After eating, they could rest there, and then she would teach them how to make tofu.


    After buying a cart full of things, Qiao Changshun was somewhat numbed. Upon hearing Xiaomai¡¯s suggestion, he hesitated for a moment and then headed the cart towards the Zuixian Building.


    They parked the cart behind the Zuixian Building. Qiao Xiaomai went ahead to knock on the door that was opened by a new waiter. After she exined her intentions, he promptly went to call the shopkeeper Zhou.


    Shopkeeper Zhou still wore his warm smile, ¡°Come in,e in.¡±


    Upon seeing this, the young waiter ran to fetch the donkey.


    Once the cart was brought into the courtyard, Shopkeeper Zhou said, ¡°You are our honored guests. We have a private room upstairs, pleasee this way.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai blinked, ¡°Shopkeeper Zhou, any seat on the first floor will do for us.¡±


    ¡°How could that be?¡± Shopkeeper Zhou intentionally feigned displeasure, ¡°We at the Zuixian Building can surely afford to offer a meal, follow me upstairs. When the young master returns from the academy, 1 will send someone to inform you.¡±


    Shopkeeper Zhou persisted in his invitation, and Qiao Xiaomai no longer declined. She followed him to the second floor and into a private room.


    The private room here was simr to one at the Extreme vor House, mainly designed for schrs from the academy. Upon entering, one felt as if they were gaining the air of literacy. The coarse cloth outfit she wore almost seemed to gain some dignity from the refined atmosphere.


    Shopkeeper Zhou was not at all stingy; he had all the restaurant¡¯s signature dishes brought up to fill the table.


    The sight of the beautifully made, great tasting dishes set before them made the eyes of Qiao Changshun and Qiao Dami stare in fascination.


    KQiao Xiaomai picked up her chopsticks and invited them, ¡°Eat all you want. Whatever we can¡¯t finish, we¡¯ll take it to go.¡±


    After having traveled so long, at this moment, she truly felt as if she had returned to the future.


    This was how her life should be.


    ¡°How much does this meal cost¡­¡± Qiao Changshun muttered under his breath.


    He was shocked into numbness once again.


    Following his daughter, he¡¯d seen and experienced more in these few days than in his thirty-plus years of life.


    ¡°Eat up. This meal is on the Zuixian Building,¡± Qiao Xiaomai said as she picked up an enticing rib with her chopsticks and ced it on Qiao Dami¡¯s te, ¡°Go ahead.¡±


    It was just a meal, she could simply reduce the price of the tofu skin she was sellingter on..

 Chapter 107 - 107: The Small Landowner

    Chapter 107: The Small Landowner


    Trantor: 549690339


    Seeing Qiao Xiaomai and Qiao Dami digging into their meals with their chopsticks, Qiao Changshun didn¡¯t hesitate much and also picked up his chopsticks.


    Zhuang Luhe and Qiao Xiaomai both were good cooks, but they had never made such exquisite food before. The enticing color of the food, the beautiful tes and the meticulous presentation were so delicate that he couldn¡¯t bear to touch them.


    The entire meal, he wore an expression of awe on his face.


    Qiao Xiaomai didn¡¯t pay attention to his wonderment. Seeing only half the dishes left, she got two small jars, about half a feet tall, from Shopkeeper Zhou. Cold dishes and hot ones were separated, and all were packed into the two jars.


    In the past, when she used to assist Zhuang Luhe in catering for banquets, beyond the gratuity, sometimes they¡¯d also be given leftover dishes.


    Although they were all vegetarian dishes, they were still rather tasty when mixed together.


    By now, it was afternoon. Shen Bai had not returned from the Academy. Though he was the son of a minister, he still had to follow the rules in Bailu Town. Regarding the 150 acres of average quality farnd around Anping Vige, he needed to personally handle the matter.


    Seeing the Qiao family sitting in the restaurant with nothing to do, Shopkeeper Zhou walked over and started a casual talk with them.


    Of course, he was mainly chatting with Qiao Xiaomai.


    Conveniently, Qiao Xiaomai also had something to chat with Shopkeeper Zhou about ¨C she really craved braised chicken feet¡­


    ¡°Shopkeeper, how many chickens do you need each day for preparing dishes in Zuixian Building?¡± She asked with a cute smile.


    ¡°Why?¡± Mr. Zhou was confused, ¡°Do you want to sell chickens?¡±


    ¡°No, no, no.¡± Qiao Xiaomai quickly shook her heads, ¡°I¡¯m particrly fond of chicken feet, so 1 was thinking, could you save some for me?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s easy. You cane and get them tomorrow.¡± Shopkeeper Zhou immediately agreed without thinking.


    Qiao Xiaomai quickly thanked him, her eyes curved in gleeful crescents.


    ¡°Miss Qiao, don¡¯t forget about Zuixian Building if you have any new delicacies in the future. Rest assured, the price will be fair, we won¡¯t cheat the young or the old,¡± Shopkeeper Zhou added.


    ¡°Sure.¡± Qiao Xiaomai nodded in agreement, she liked Shen Bai¡¯s efficient and decisive handling!


    While they were speaking, Shen Bai came back, holding the deed ofnd.


    Having got it registered at the government office, now all Qiao Changshun had to do was press his fingerprint onto it.


    ording to the ¡°Daqi Law¡±, since fields weren¡¯t granted to women, unmarried girls couldn¡¯t own any farnd. If they wanted to possessnd, they had to wait until they got married and then have it transferred to their name in the form of a dowry.


    Since Qiao Xiaomai was not married yet, these 150 acres ofnd were all under the name of Qiao Changshun.


    After Qiao Changshun pressed his fingerprint on thend deed, his mind became even more dazed.


    A few days ago, they were so desperate that they considered selling the house. Now they suddenly owned more than a hundred acres of farnd?


    ¡°Miss Qiao, thend deed has been registered at the government office, from now on, these fields are your family¡¯s property. The crops growing on these fields are wheat, we will give that to you as well,¡± said Shen Bai with a beaming smile.


    ¡°No, no, no, we agreed only to the farnd.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not an issue, remember to think of our Zuixian Building first when you have some new delicacies to offer in the future. Even if we are not the first, try not to sell them only to Jiweiju,¡± said Shen Bai, his cheerful face suddenly turning solemn.


    Qiao Xiaomai hurriedly switched to a serious tone too, ¡°Definitely, definitely.¡±


    At the same time, she was a bit puzzled. Even if Zuixian Building and Jiweiju were enemies, was it necessary to be so serious over a dish of tofu and curd?


    Even though she didn¡¯t quite understand, she didn¡¯t show it. After promising she thanked Shen Bai again. 150 acres of wheat, a sizable fortune!


    From now on, her family was truly going to bendowners!

 Chapter 108 - 108: The Richest Man in Anping Village

    Chapter 108: The Richest Man in Anping Vige


    Trantor: 549690339


    After thend deed was transferred, the Huang beans were not yet ready, so Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s family stayed a while longer.


    By the time the beans were ready and she had taught the chief chef of the Zuixian Building how to make tofu and bean curd, it had already gotten dark.


    The family of three hurried home in their donkey cart.


    The road from Anping Vige to Bailu Town was wide enough for three donkey carts to travel side by side. Qiao Changshun whipped the donkey, and the cart took off towards Anping Vige in the twilight.


    The wind had started to blow in the evening, and was getting stronger and stronger, with dust swirling all around. Qiao Xiaomai sat in the donkey cart, hugging Qiao Dami, her good mood from bing a smallndowner in the afternoon hadpletely dissipated.


    The temperature dropped, and the breeze went straight through the fabric to the skin, carrying dust with it.


    The donkey cart was moving fast, but it was also very bumpy. The whole feeling was just terrible.


    Feeling depressed after the transition to a new ce had finally dissipated, but her mood had gotten worse once again. Oh, how she missed modern times!


    Finally, they arrived home, covered in dust.


    Qiao Xiaomai let Qiao Changshun and Qiao Dami carry the things from the donkey cart back to the hall, whilst she went to heat up some water in the kitchen.


    By the time she had taken a bath and climbed into bed, the wind outside was even stronger.


    She had risen very early that day to make tofu and bean curd, and had been busy all day. Now she was exhausted and soon fell asleep in her bed. When she woke up again, she heard the pitter-patter of rain.


    It was raining.


    Spring rain is considered precious, just like oil. The local farmers had been irrigating their wheat fields recently, so this rain came at a very good time.


    Qiao Changshun was sitting in the shed, working on a wooden basket, his face a bit conflicted. Of course, the rain was a good thing, but he really wanted to experience what it would feel like to water the fields with a donkey cart.


    Qiao Xiaomai sat next to him, washing the pig intestines she had bought yesterday.


    She was using flour, salt, and vinegar to scrub it clean. Upon seeing this, Qiao Changshun stopped being conflicted and said, ¡°That¡¯s a little too wasteful.¡± ¡°This is to get rid of the fecal smell.¡±


    Qiao Changshun frowned, ¡°We used to eat it that way all the time.¡±


    Pig intestines are much cheaper than pork. Zhuang Luhe would asionally buy some, but she would never clean them the way Qiao Xiaomai was doing.


    As Qiao Xiaomai continued to wash the intestines, she said, ¡°Dad, we¡¯rendowners now. You need to show some backbone, think of all the things we could do. You should learn from Master Shen.¡±


    Qiao Changshun shook his head, ¡°The Vige Chief is also andowner, but I bet his family doesn¡¯t eat like this.¡±


    ¡°Next time we see Grandfather Tong, I¡¯ll ask him what his family eats every day. We now have 150 acres ofnd. Dad, hold your head high and show some fierceness.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re right, when Jiwei Ju sends over the remaining 150 acres, we¡¯ll be the people in Anping Vige with the mostnd, aligning us with the Tong family.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai¡±¡­¡±


    A match of equals?


    She raised a puzzled head, ¡°What does that mean?¡±


    ¡°Nothing.¡± Qiao Changshun quickly shook his head, ¡°I just suddenly thought of this phrase. I¡¯ve been poor for so long, became andowner all of a sudden, and


    I¡¯m not used to it.¡±


    At this, Qiao Xiaomai uttered an ¡°Oh¡± and continued washing the intestines, now her head lowered again, ¡°You¡¯ll get used to it. Our family will be the richest in Anping Vige.¡±


    Qiao Changshun mumbled in agreement, didn¡¯t say much, and just sped up his pace.


    Of course, when he had mentioned being a good match earlier, it wasn¡¯t said lightly. Those were his genuine thoughts.


    There was a daughter in the family who hadn¡¯t married yet, and he had recently been thinking about suitable suitors in the vige.


    As the grandson of the richest man in Anping Vige, Tong Sang naturally made it to his list of possible matches..

 Chapter 109 - 109: Comparison

    Chapter 109: Comparison


    Trantor: 549690339


    To tell the truth, in his opinion, if it weren¡¯t for the incident involving Zhuang Luhe, Qiao Xiaomai was perfectly suited for Tong Sang.


    Such a money-making daughter-inw was unmatched in dozens of neighboring viges.


    However, despite saying this, the gap between the Qiao and Tong families was huge. He kept his thoughts about marrying into the Tong family to himself, not showing a hint of it on his face.


    But things were different now.


    Despite the negative impact of Zhuang Luhe¡¯s departure, his family had suddenly be the wealthiest in Anping Vige.


    Wealthiest!


    What heavy words, as if a mountain. The weight was totally on par with the suppression that Tong Tiehu imposed on the Sun family¡¯s Zhu Cuiying and others.


    Therefore, he felt a bit restless inside, and the words ¡®matched in social and economic status¡¯ slipped out unconsciously.


    In terms of family wealth, making money, appearance and diligence, besides having a mother with a bad reputation, Qiao Xiaomai was absolutely worthy of Tong Sang.


    However, how can he arrange this match between the two¡­


    Qiao Xiaomai gets upset whenever the topic of marriagees up, and Tong Sang, he has never given an extra look at Qiao Xiaomai.


    Ah, how troublesome.


    Unaware of Qiao Changshun¡¯s intentions towards Tong Sang, Qiao Xiaomai washed the pig intestines and picked a few chili peppers to prepare lunch.


    She asked Qiao Dami to build a fire. She made a soup of pork hock and soy beans, and also fried the pig intestines.


    When the pepper hit the pot, a rich aroma drifted out. Qiao Dami took a deep breath. Although it made him want to sneeze, the smell was so fragrant and enticing!


    Qiao Dami sitting under the shed also smelled it and hurriedly asked, ¡°What¡¯s that smell?¡±


    He said as he stood up, and limped into the kitchen.


    Qiao Xiaomai said, ¡°It¡¯s the red fruit 1 brought back from the mountain.¡±


    ¡°What is it? Is it poisonous?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯ve tasted it, it¡¯s spicy like the Cornelian Cherry, but isn¡¯t bitter.¡±


    Qiao Changshun, hearing this, was immediately rmed, ¡°How can you eat just anything!¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai casually mentioned bringing back the chili, and he didn¡¯t think much about it; who knew Qiao Xiaomai actually ate it!


    How could she consume something of unknown origin!


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯m fine.¡± Qiao Xiaomai said with a smile, ¡°Besides, everything on Rooster Mountain is non-toxic.¡±


    Qiao Changshun choked, and sternly added, ¡°That doesn¡¯t mean you can eat anything.¡±


    ¡°Okay, okay, 1 won¡¯t do it again next time.¡± Qiao Xiaomai responded perfunctorily, her hands continually stirring the intestines in the pot.


    In a short while, the appetizing aroma wafted up, and Qiao Changshun unconsciously sniffed, ¡°It does smell appetizing.¡±


    ¡°Isn¡¯t it? It¡¯ll definitely taste good. I¡¯ve saved all the seeds. I¡¯ll nt them in our vegetable plot in time to sell them.¡±


    At these words, Qiao Changshun¡¯s thoughts started to wander again.


    Of course, he wasn¡¯t thinking about future ie, but about Tong Sang.


    This girl, who could always find valuable things and make money, was indeed a suitable match for Tong Sang!


    ¡°Alright, let¡¯s eat.¡± Seeing Qiao Changshun standing at the door in a daze, Qiao Xiaomai called out, ¡°Dad, go wash your hands.¡±


    Qiao Changshun¡¯s wandering mind was recalled by her voice, and he hurriedly went to wash his hands with Qiao Dami.


    Once he sat at the table and tasted the delicious chili, Qiao Changshun¡¯s thoughts couldn¡¯t help but drift back to the Tong family again.


    This time he was seriouslyparing the Qiao family to the Tong family.


    In terms of character, Qiao Xiaomai and Tong Sang are on par. Both are good individuals.


    In respect to fields, his family has more.


    In terms of money, the Tongs have more, but with Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s clever ideas, surely his family will have more in the future.


    Reputation, well¡­


    Status, the Tong Family holds a minor official position, his family ismoners.


    On making such aparison¡­

 Chapter 110 - no: Face the Reality

    Chapter 110: Chapter no: Face the Reality


    Trantor: 549690339


    Ah, in terms of reputation and status, the two more significant aspects, the Qiao Family falls shortpared to the Tong Family.


    Compared tond and wealth, reputation and status seem to be more important.


    Acknowledging this fact, Qiao Changshun felt depressed. He had previously thought that the two families wereparable in status.


    ¡°Dad, don¡¯t just eat the steamed bun, eat some vegetables.¡± Seeing him only eating the steamed bun, Qiao Xiaomai pushed the dish towards him.


    Qiao Changshun responded lowly, his gaze lingering on Qiao Xiaomai for a moment.


    Then his frustration eased somewhat.


    Their family might not match up to the Tong Family right now, but he had not heard of any girl in the nearby viges who was better than Qiao Xiaomai.


    As long as Tong Sang remains unmarried, Qiao Xiaomai still has a chance.


    With this in mind, Qiao Changshun quickly finished his steamed bun, then started drinking pig trotter soup, ¡°Xiaomai, when do you n to make those bean sprouts you mentioned?¡±


    ¡°Later.¡±


    ¡°And how do you n to sell them once they¡¯re ready?¡± Qiao Changshun continued to ask.


    ¡°Hmm¡­send some to Jiji Residence and Zuixian Building, sell the rest in the vige, at a cheaper price.¡± She initially nned to sell tofu in the vige to build her family¡¯s reputation, aiming to gain poprity.


    Who knew that Shopkeeper He would buy them all, so that idea was scrapped.


    The sprouts can¡¯t be bought out now.


    ¡°That sounds good, sell them in the vige,¡± Qiao Changshun agreed, nodding.


    He also wished to enhance their reputation in the vige, his idea coinciding perfectly with Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s.


    Thus, the n was set. Since it was raining and they couldn¡¯t go anywhere, Qiao Xiaomai began sprouting beans.


    First, select the beans, discard the bad ones, and keep the plump ones. After washing them, pour the beans into a wooden basin, add a small amount of water, just enough to cover the beans, and that¡¯s it.


    ¡°That¡¯s all?¡± Qiao Changshun and Qiao Dami were intrigued.


    ¡°Yes, let them soak first, then they¡¯ll need watering,¡± Qiao Xiaomai nodded.


    ¡°This¡­¡± Qiao Changshun scratched his head. Cold jelly noodles, tofu and bean curd seemed high in technical content in his view, but aren¡¯t these sprouts too simple?


    ¡°It¡¯s that simple. I stumbled upon sprouting soybeans. If it wasplicated, do you think I could¡¯ve tried it casually?¡±


    Qiao Changshun rubbed his hands, this made sense.


    ¡°Dad, you go on weaving baskets, I¡¯ll go make clothes,¡± Qiao Xiaomai stepped into her room.


    It was initially nned to collect chicken feet from the town today, but with the rain, it was naturally out of the question.


    Qiao Changshun went back under the shed and continued to weave baskets with willow strips.


    Qiao Dami squatted beside him, leisurely cracking melon seeds in his hands.


    He didn¡¯t like to run around, especially in the rain. His house had brick flooring, but the outside was all dirt roads, all muddy with one step. Yeah, staying home is better.


    The rain continued for three days, quenching thend, transforming it into a tender green.


    Qiao Changshun couldn¡¯t help but sigh again. This time enough rain was collected, and there would be no need to water the fields before harvest. When can he experience the feel of irrigating a field with a donkey?


    ¡°Dad, shall we go to town?¡± Qiao Xiaomai stood next to the donkey cart and asked.


    She wanted the chicken feet, and also wanted to see how the tofu and bean curd at the Zuixian Building were doing.


    In addition, Shopkeeper He¡¯s 150 acres ofnd, three days have passed, he should give her an answer now.


    ¡°To town.¡± Qiao Changshun responded, thus the three members of the family once again boarded the donkey cart, rollingfortably towards Bailu Town..

 Chapter 111 - in: Emperor Yongan

    Chapter 111: Chapter in: Emperor Yongan


    Trantor: 549690339


    Darning Pce, the Diligence Hall.


    At this moment, it is noon. The rain has just cleared and the windows of the hall are all open. A breeze sneaks through the windows into the hall, bringing the fresh scent of spring.


    On the dark gold Dragon Throne sits a man in a yellow dragon robe. Despite his average appearance and age of over fifty, he exudes an air of dominance and nobility unique to a ruler. In one hand, he¡¯s holding a memorial to the throne. In the other, a brush, which he uses to write instructions, his expression solemn.


    A eunuch dressed in a deep blue robe quietly walks in, halting a meter away from the imperial table. He bows respectfully, ¡°Your Majesty, it is time for lunch.¡±


    ¡°Let it be brought.¡± The man on the Dragon Throne is none other than Emperor Yang Hongbo, the present ruler of Daqi. His era name is Yong¡¯an, so the people call him Emperor Yong¡¯an.


    The eunuch nods, retreats with light steps, and soon returns, followed by three yellow-robed eunuchs carrying food boxes.


    The yellow-robed eunuchs gently ce the food from the boxes on the dining table and then stand still to one side.


    The eunuch dressed in blue, by the name of Fang Hai, ces a copper bowl ready for Emperor Yong¡¯an to wash his hands.


    Emperor Yong¡¯an casually rinses his calloused palm in the bowl a few times, then sits down at the table. His gaze scans over the table, and his solemn expression softens a bit.


    Fang Hai picks up some chopsticks and pinches a delicately small steamed bun. He tears off a small piece and tastes it.


    He is always with Emperor Yong¡¯an, the eunuch who is entrusted with testing the emperor¡¯s food for poison. The first bite of the emperor¡¯s food has always been tasted by him.


    Today is no exception. The small bun has a soft outer skin, and the filling of cold jelly noodles and ground meat inside is aromatic and tender. He smiles at Emperor Yong¡¯an and says, ¡°Your Majesty, the skills of the Imperial Kitchen staff have improved again.¡±


    Emperor Yong¡¯an takes the partially eaten small bun and takes a bite. After swallowing it, he slowly nods, ¡°Have these been sent to the Emperor Emeritus?¡±


    The Emperor Emeritus, now eighty-six years old, can only eat soft food like cold jelly noodles.


    ¡°Yes, they have. The staff of the Imperial Kitchen have recently devised many new dishes. This cold jelly noodle dish was right on time.¡± As Fang Hai speaks, he lifts another small bun and takes a bite, which brings an even bigger smile to his face. ¡°Your Majesty, you should taste this.¡±


    Emperor Yong¡¯an nces at the small bun in Fang Hai¡¯s hand and notices little white cubes in the bun filling, a sight he has never seen before. He takes the bun and tastes it.


    The taste and texture of the bun is delightfully soft like the earlier one, but the taste is refreshingly different and incredibly delicious. Fie can¡¯t help but ask, ¡°Is this a new dish created by the Imperial Kitchen?¡±


    ¡°Yes, this is called tofu pudding and the recipe was just submitted by the Prime Minister to the court. It¡¯s made from soybeans.¡± As Fang Hai responds to Emperor Yong¡¯an¡¯s question, he hands Emperor Yong¡¯an a small jade ss, revealing the snowy tofu pudding inside once he removes the lid.


    ¡°This is Floral Dew, also made from soybeans. It can be eaten with sauces; which one would you like to taste, Your Majesty?¡± Fang Hai points at the small dishes of various sauces on the table.


    Emperor Yong¡¯an points at the sugar cane. Fang Hai adds a spoonful of sugar cane to the small ss. He takes a taste first and then hands it to Emperor Yong¡¯an, ¡°Your Majesty, it¡¯s as good as cold jelly noodles.¡±


    ¡°Oh?¡± Emperor Yong¡¯an tasted it and raised his eyebrows in surprise. Its delicate taste truly rivals cold jelly noodles.


    Cold jelly noodles are made from sweet potatoes. The smooth delicacy of sweet potatoes is inherent, but it¡¯s surprising that the soybeans used to make the Floral Dew could also yield such an enticingly delicate vor..

 Chapter 112 - 112: In Name Only

    Chapter 112: In Name Only


    Trantor: 549690339


    ¡°And this.¡± Fang Ii continued the introduction for Emperor Yongan. He took a palm-sized,ke blue bowl from the food box. The bowl contained rich soybean paste, knowing the emperor¡¯s preference for cane sugar, he proactively added some, ¡°This is soymilk, in which dried soybeans are soaked and then ground on a stone mill into a paste, then it¡¯s boiled. This is how soymilk is made.¡±


    Emperor Yongan was somewhat surprised, ¡°So many variations?¡±


    ¡°Indeed, the people in the Imperial Kitchen say that this food is no worse than cold jelly noodles.¡± Fang Hai put the bowl in front of Emperor Yongan.


    Upon hearing this, a slight smile touched the corner of the emperor¡¯s mouth. ¡°The prime ministers are so considerate.¡±


    Creating more variations from two inexpensive ingredients like soybeans and sweet potato, which couldn¡¯t be used as staple food, was also a kind of contribution.


    ¡°Has it been poprized?¡± He asked.


    ¡°Your Highness, the cold jelly noodles are exclusive to Jimei¡¯s restaurant, only sold for five coins per serving. The price is not high. The tofu pudding, also known as ¡®white jade flower¡¯, is a bit more expensive and is currently only sold at the Zuixian Building and the Jimei restaurant in Bailu Town.¡±


    ¡°Oh?¡± Emperor Yongan raised an eyebrow.


    Fang Haiughed, gently exining the whole sequence of events.


    When the right prime minister offered the recipe for the jelly noodles, he just mentioned that he had obtained this delicious food and thought of Emperor Yongan and his retired father, so he offered it up.


    The recipe was indeed good, developing an alternative way to eat sweet potatoes, which was also suitable for his retired father, so he received a reward.


    Now the left prime minister presented the tofu recipe, disclosed everything about the origin, current status, and when Emperor Yongan asked, he told everything he knew.


    Emperor Yongan was quite surprised, ¡°Did all thise from a little country girl?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡± Fang Hai replied.


    ¡°Not bad, clever and skillful.¡± Emperor Yongan praised, ¡°However, it seems like Jimei¡¯s restaurant has taken advantage of her?¡±


    Fifty taels, that was really too little.


    If Qiao Xiaomai offered this recipe directly to him, he would have rewarded her with hundreds of acres ofnd.


    Fang Haiughed softly and didn¡¯t reply.


    ¡°Never mind, the girl has made her fortune with this recipe. Keep an eye on her in the future and make sure she is not bullied.¡±


    Including the hundred and fifty acres of farnd from Jimei¡¯s restaurant, the Qiao family now had a total of three hundred acres ofnd. In Bailu Town wherend was scarce, they were now considered middle-ssndowners. In the future, they could live fairlyfortably just on the rent.


    Fang Hai agreed.


    And so the matter was settled, leaving only the faint noise of Emperor Yongan eating his meal in the Diligent Rule Pce Hall.


    Bailu Town.


    Unaware that she, Qiao Xiaomai, had been brought up in a conversation with the Daqi Emperor over these two recipes, she traveled to the town with her family on a shaky donkey cart after half an hour¡¯s journey.


    There was nothing they could do. It had been raining for three days; the roads were muddy, causing the donkey cart to travel at a very slow pace.


    Once they reached the town, they first went to the Zuixian Building.


    The shopkeeper of the Zuixian Building, Mr. Zhou, greeted her with a warm smile, ¡°Miss Qiao is here,e in please, we¡¯ve been keeping these chicken feet for you these past few days.¡±


    ¡°Eh?¡± Qiao Xiaomai was surprised. Given the weather, how long could they keep the cut-off chicken feet?


    Seeing her doubts, Shopkeeper Zhou exined, ¡°We¡¯ve been freezing them.¡±


    Of course, a ce like the Zuixian Building would have ice cers to store winter ice for an entire year. Freezing chicken feet for Qiao Xiaomai was nothing.


    Qiao Xiaomai was thrilled, thanking him hurriedly, ¡°Thank you very much, shopkeeper!¡±


    Ice!


    The moment she mentioned the word, several kinds of food came to mind.


    What a great thing!

 Chapter 113 - 113: Land Acquired

    Chapter 113: Land Acquired


    Trantor: 549690339


    Seeing Xiaomai¡¯s eyes light up, Shopkeeper Zhou was taken aback, and then he understood. It seemed that Miss Qiao really liked chicken ws!


    With that thought, he waved his chubby hand magnanimously and said, ¡°There are over a hundred, all for Miss Qiao.¡±


    Chicken ws, if a customer ordered a whole chicken, naturally it couldn¡¯t be missing, but the rest of the dishes could save some, in three days, they had gathered more than a hundred and fifty.


    This time it was Xiaomai¡¯s turn to be stunned, but she swiftly shook her head, ¡°No, no, no, you better sell it to me at the normal price.¡±


    She insisted on settling ounts clearly, she didn¡¯t like being in someone¡¯s debt.


    ¡°It¡¯s just a bit of chicken w, don¡¯t mind it.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s a lot to me, I have to mind.¡± Xiaomai was resolute.


    Seeing this, Shopkeeper Zhou had no choice but to go along with her, ¡°Alright, three for a penny, give me fifty pennies.¡±


    There was no market price for chicken ws sold separately, so the price of this transaction was naturally determined by him.


    Xiaomai thought about it, did not refuse, and counted out fifty copper coins from her pocket and handed them to Shopkeeper Zhou.


    So Shopkeeper Zhou ordered his staff to bring the chicken ws out of the ice cer and put them on the donkey cart.


    Xiaomai then asked how the tofu and bean curd were selling.


    The answer, naturally, was only two words: Very good.


    These past few rainy days, Xiaomai hadn¡¯t delivered tofu and bean curd to Extreme Taste House, so all the original business of Extreme Taste House had been snatched by Zuixian Building.


    Moreover, Zuixian Building quickly spread the way to make tofu and bean curd to its branches throughout the country, and even presented it to Emperor Yongan. Now, the earnings of Zuixian Building had doubled.


    ¡°Miss Qiao, you must think of Zuixian Building for any good opportunities in the future.¡± Before parting, Shopkeeper Zhou stuffed a packet of pastries into Dami¡¯s hand, and instructed Xiaomai.


    ¡°Alright.¡± Xiaomai nodded.


    The bean sprouts will be ready today, and if everything goes well, she will start delivering them to Zuixian Building in a few days.


    Leaving the Zuixian Building, the family of three drove the donkey cart to Extreme Taste House.


    Learning that she hade, Shopkeeper He rushed out to greet her, ¡°Oh, Miss Qiao, you¡¯re finally here!¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s been a few days, how have you been, Shopkeeper He?¡± Xiaomai greeted him cheerily.


    ¡°Not good, not good!¡± Shopkeeper He pped his thigh and hurriedly led Xiaomai and her family to the room, ¡°Come,e,e, thend deed is prepared, you quickly press your handprint on it, and start teaching the chef how to make tofu and bean curd!¡±


    Without the tofu and bean curd business, he was heartbroken.


    He couldn¡¯t swallow his pride to buy from Zuixian Building, and without the delicious bean curd, his stomach hurt.


    Now that the rain had stopped and Xiaomai hade, this matter had to be done quickly!


    There could be no more dys!


    Three days was enough time for Shen Bai to bring the recipes for tofu and bean curd to the Pce.


    Sigh!


    He hoped that the Emperor would not bear a grudge for Extreme Taste House¡¯s previousck of respect in not offering recipes. It wasn¡¯t that he didn¡¯t want to offer them, but at that time, he had no way to obtain them if Xiaomai wouldn¡¯t sell!


    ¡°Miss Qiao, have a look at this.¡± Shopkeeper He took out thend deed and handed it to Xiaomai.


    Xiaomai took it and said, ¡°1 don¡¯t know how to read.¡±


    ¡°Forgot!¡± Shopkeeper He pped his forehead, and exined, ¡°This piece ofnd is not in Anping Vige.¡±


    Anping Vige had thousands of people, equating to the poption of ten other viges. Because it was so crowded, the surroundingnd was all taken up. Moreover, with Shen Bai¡¯s efforts to collect a hundred and fifty acres, when his employer decided to make a move, thend he acquired was somewhat distant from Anping Vige.


    There was no choice, the vigers didn¡¯t want to sell and they certainly couldn¡¯t resort to stealing..

 Chapter 114 - 114: Misunderstanding

    Chapter 114: Misunderstanding


    Trantor: 549690339


    ¡°Miss Qiao, well¡­ aspensation, the master has bought those three knolls next to thend and is giving them to you as well. 1 hope you don¡¯t mind.¡±


    Thend in Bailu Town isn¡¯t an endless in. Besides Rooster Mountain, there are asional knolls and slopes. The parcel ofnd that Master Jiwei procured is located in the southeast of Anping Vige, about ten miles away from the vige, beside a river, with three consecutive knolls.


    The knolls don¡¯t cover much ground, with all threebined only measuring fifty acres. They are not high either, only a little over a hundred meters. Rather than calling them knolls, they are more like dirt slopes, overgrown with weeds and barren.


    Knowing that these slopes are of no significant use, Shopkeeper He coughed softly and made a somewhat timid suggestion. ¡°Actually Miss Qiao, you could nt fruit trees there. Our master is willing to provide apple tree saplings for free.¡±


    ¡®Nai Zi¡¯ is just the local term for apple.


    Qiao Xiaomai thought about it and nodded. ¡°Okay.¡±


    With three more slopes, adding up to fifty acres, it would be good to nt some apples.


    Seeing that Qiao Xiaomai agreed without any signs of displeasure on her face, Shopkeeper He felt relieved,ughing cheerfully, ¡°Then hurry up and press your handprint. 1¡¯11 send someer to show you thend.¡±


    After Qiao Changshun pressed his handprint, Shopkeeper He joked with a smile, ¡°Qiao brother, when Miss Xiaomai gets married, this title deed will have to be part of her dowry.¡±


    Qiao Changshun was stunned briefly but then nodded. ¡°Of course.¡±


    Everything the family had was earned by Qiao Xiaomai. Whatever she wants to take with her when the timees, she can take.


    Hearing this, Qiao Xiaomai rolled her eyes in private.


    What business of the shopkeeper is it whether she gets married or not?


    However, as Shopkeeper He was still a business partner, Qiao Xiaomai didn¡¯t show scorn like she did with Qiao Changshun previously. She just withdrew her smile, intending to leave immediately with Qiao Changshun and Qiao Dami.


    Shopkeeper He quickly stopped her. ¡°Miss Qiao, we need to send someone to guide you to thend!¡±


    ¡°No need.¡±


    ¡°Then the tofu recipe?¡±


    ¡°Start soaking the soybeans. i¡¯ll be back this afternoon.¡± Qiao Xiaomai spoken as she returned the title deed to the desk. ¡°You can hold onto this.¡±


    Without waiting for Shopkeeper He to say anything else, she swiftly took Qiao Changshun and Qiao Dami and left.


    Shopkeeper He was left feeling quite perplexed. Which part of what he said had upset the girl?


    Was she not satisfied with the three extra slopes?


    Um¡­


    He pped his forehead and ordered his staff to soak the soybeans. This matter should be taken care of by the master. As shopkeeper, it was not his duty.


    Upon leaving Jiwei Residence, Qiao Xiaomai wore a stern face as she boarded the donkey cart. Qiao Changshun observed her expression, deciding to postpone revealing his intention to set her up with Tong Sang.


    If she ever found out he had already selected a suitable match for her despite her angry expression at Shopkeeper He¡¯s ce, well¡­


    Thinking about Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s grim look, Qiao Changshun rubbed his hands together and got on the donkey cart, ¡°Where to?¡±


    ¡°To buy a fish.¡± Qiao Xiaomai responded coldly.


    Tonight they would be able to eat bean sprouts, and she wanted to have poached fish.


    Qiao Changshun nodded and drove the donkey cart slowly towards the fish market.


    Having bought two plump grass carps, the family of three had nothing else to do in town and decided just go home.


    There were a lot of chores waiting at home. After three days of rain, there was no green grass left for the donkey and the firewood was all wet. The chili seeds needed nting, the wheat field needed weeding. For farmers, there was never a truly leisure moment.


    Sitting in his establishment, waiting silently for Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s return, Shopkeeper He¡±¡­¡±


    His lips twitched.. Ah, had she actually gotten angry?

 Chapter 115 - 115: Boiled Fish

    Chapter 115: Boiled Fish


    Trantor: 549690339


    Now that Qiao Xiaomai had said she would teach the main chef at Jiwaiju how to cook tofu in the afternoon, she would naturally go ahead. At the moment she hade home early because there was nothing to do in the town, so she decided to do some chores around the house.


    As for being angry, of course she was angry, she had stealthily crushed a handful of melon seeds while walking back home with her hand in her basket.


    After turning the seeds into dust, the sulking within her was ventually gone.


    When she got home, it was not yet noon. It seemed like the whole family went out for the market day.


    Qiao Xiaomai went into the hall to check the bean sprouts. They had grown as long as a finger, and thus were ready to be eaten.


    She scraped off the scales of two grass carps, excised their internal organs, and sliced the meat into pieces. Next, she marinated the slices in egg whites and seasoning.


    She got Qiao Dami to light the fire. When the pot was hot, she poured in oil and added ginger, garlic, hot pepper, Sichuan pepper and other seasonings. After stir frying the seasonings until they became fragrant, she put in the fish heads and sauteed them. Then soup was added and the pot was left to simmer.


    When the water was boiling, shedled the fish slices and added them in to continue boiling.


    Since there was only soybean paste made from soybeans avable here, without any doubanjiang (a kind of broad bean sauce), she didn¡¯t use any paste.


    While the pot simmered away with the fish slices, she turned over a pottery pot to cook the sprouts.


    By the time the sprouts were cooked, the fish slices were also ready. She first put the cooked sprouts at the bottom of a bowl and then slowly poured the boiled fish slices into the bowl. This boiled fish dish was now considered prepared.


    The water-boiled fish she made didn¡¯t look very enticing, but it tasted great. The fish didn¡¯t have any odd taste, but were fresh and fragrant, with a tint of numb and spiciness.


    The fish was much more delicious than the little fish they had caught in the small river, each of which was only as long as a finger.


    With some steamed buns, the three of them ate a whole basin of water-boiled fish.


    The two fish, weighing a total of over six kilograms, were all polished off in one meal!


    Qiao Dami patted her bulging belly, generous with her praise. ¡°Sister, your cooking is getting better and better!¡±


    Qiao Changshun, who sat nearby, nodded again and again, ¡°If anyone elsees to invite you to cook a vige feast, bring these sprouts with you. They¡¯re tasty.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai just grunted in acknowledgement.


    In truth, she didn¡¯t very much like eating sprouts. But this type of sprouts were not unpleasant to eat. Even if she didn¡¯t like them, others did, and moreover, one kilogram of soybeans could produce seven to eight kilograms of sprouts. It was quite a profitable business.


    Upon thinking of this, she spoke, ¡°Later, let¡¯s send some to Aunt Gun¡¯s house and to Grandpa as well.¡±


    She had only soaked one kilogram of soybeans initially, but now there were plenty of sprouts, making it possible for these to be given away freely.


    Qiao Changshun nodded, ¡°Alright, we¡¯ll send some to the Vige Chief¡¯s house too. And ask him to announce it to the whole vige so that everyone can know about our food.¡±


    ¡°Okay,¡± Qiao Xiaomai had no objections to this.


    So, after the meal, she and Qiao Dami first went to Aunt Gun¡¯s house and then to the old Qiao Family courtyard.


    When she and Qiao Dami arrived, the people at the old courtyard were preparing to work in the fields. Seeing here over, everyone, except Qiao Qinghe and Qiao Dazhu, stared at her like enemies with unfriendly expressions.


    Qiao Xiaomai could not be bothered to deal with them, just handing the basket in her hand to Qiao Qinghe. ¡°Grandpa, this is the new bean sprouts I¡¯ve made from soybeans. They are good for stir-fry or stew and taste pretty good. Please try some.¡±


    Hearing that there were gifts, Sun Family¡¯s facial muscles which had been taut rxed. She came over to look at the sprouts and harrumphed, ¡°So, you¡¯vee up with a new dish again.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai did not even grunt in response, and instead directly handed the basket to Qiao Qinghe.


    Sun Family observed all this and became even angrier. ¡°You impudent girl, what¡¯s with your attitude?!¡±


    ¡°Shut your mouth!¡± Qiao Qinghe gave her a stern nce, ¡°If you don¡¯t say anything, no one will think you¡¯re mute!¡±


    As he spoke, he took the basket and quickly returned home to pour the sprouts into a wooden basket.


    After being scolded, Sun Family¡¯s anger red up even more, and she was tinged with resentment. Just as she was about tounch a new scolding tirade, Zhu Cuiying squeezed over.. Her pockmarked face was full of smiles and her tone was very friendly, ¡°Xiaomai, how much are you selling these new sprouts for?¡±

 Chapter 116 - 116: Stabbing the Heart

    Chapter 116: Stabbing the Heart


    Trantor: 549690339


    ¡°One penny per pound.¡± Qiao Xiaomai answered.


    She had settled on this price after discussing it with Qiao Changshun. Yellow beans cost three pennies a pound and could grow seven or eight pounds of bean sprouts. It was simply a matter of consuming some water and manpower. In the end, she would profit.


    Moreover, a price of one penny was eptable to the vigers. There are a lot of bean sprouts in a pound, enough for several meals for households with fewer members.


    ¡°Oh, this isn¡¯t expensive at all!¡± Zhu Cuiying pped her thigh, her smile bing friendlier, ¡°What about your tofu business? Managing two businesses must be tiring for you alone, right?¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai nced at her skeptically, unnoticeably retreating a couple of steps, ¡°I sold the recipe for my tofu to Extreme vor Residence and Zuixian Building. From now on, I¡¯ll only sell bean sprouts.¡±


    A single sentence, like glue, seemed to freeze the superficial smile on Zhu Cuiying¡¯s face.


    Or, seen another way, as sudden as a deafening thunderp, it left the people present stunned.


    A business that sold for tens of pennies a pound and twenty-three pennies a bowl was sold by this girl?


    How many mountains of gold and silver would it take to trade away such a recipe?


    As if she could already see the gentle glow emanating from a mountain of gold and silver, the eyes of the Sun Family¡¯s Matron widened dramatically, her voice bing raspy with excitement, ¡°Then how¡­ how much silver did you sell it for?!¡±


    She was flustered and in her hurry, she inadvertently spat as she spoke.


    Disgusted, Qiao Xiaomai moved two more steps back.


    At this point, Qiao Qinghe came out carrying a basket. He handed the basket to Qiao Xiaomai. Glimpsing the unusual expressions of the people at the door out of the corner of his eye, he asked in confusion, ¡°What happened?¡±


    ¡°I sold the tofu recipe.¡± Qiao Xiaomai exined, ¡°They¡¯ve been like this since they heard.¡±


    ¡°You sold it?¡± A look of astonishment crossed Qiao Qinghe¡¯s face at her words.


    Qiao Xiaomai nodded, taking the basket from his hand, ¡°I can only make a little every day, it¡¯s too little. Just right, someone from Zuixian Building came to buy the recipe. They wanted to make tofu elsewhere. So I sold it. From now on, I¡¯ll only do the bean sprouts business. Grandfather, if you find the taste agreeable, I can bring more over.¡±


    Qiao Qinghe pondered for a moment before asking, ¡°Did you get a fair price?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s alright.¡± Qiao Xiaomai did not wish to say more. Even though the fact that she swapped the recipe for quite a lot ofnd was impossible to hide, she wanted to keep it a secret for as long as she could.


    ¡°That¡¯s good then, you two should go home now.¡± Qiao Qinghe patted Qiao Dami¡¯s little head with an affectionate voice.


    Qiao Xiaomai nodded in response, leading Qiao Dami along the same path back home.


    Once they disappeared from sight, the Matron of the Sun Family finally came back to her senses. She was about to explode, ¡°Dear husband, that girl came back with a mountain of silver!¡±


    Qiao Changshun red at her, ¡°What¡¯s it to you?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m her grandmother! She should provide for me!¡± The Matron of the Sun Family rebutted righteously.


    Junyan, her son, had just briefed her on the filial obligations outlined in the ¡°Daqi Laws¡±. Even though they had divided the family, Qiao Xiaomai should still provide for her!


    ¡°Are you short of the fifty pennies she provides every month?¡± Qiao Qinghe asked coldly.


    ¡°She has a mountain of silver at home, yet she only gives me fifty pennies every month! When Junyan left, I didn¡¯t even have extra silver to give him as pocket money!¡± Remembering the terrible state of Junyan when he left, the Matron of the Sun Family was so upset that she clutched her chest.


    Qiao Xiaomai owned a mountain of silver, but only gave her fifty copper coins each month. Was this filial piety?


    This was charity given to a beggar!


    Qiao Xiaomai had a donkey cart, yet when Junyan left, he had to walk. It was a twenty miles journey! The dust on the road was bound to soil his shoes and clothes! Her son was as precious as a deity. How could he bear such hardship!


    The more she thought about it, the more she felt wronged.. The Matron of the Sun Family wanted to chase after Qiao Xiaomai immediately, ¡°That wretchedss, I need to confront her!¡±

 Chapter 117 - 117 Bring me a bowl of fat meat!

    Chapter 117: Bring me a bowl of fat meat!


    Trantor: 549690339


    ¡°Stop right there!¡± Qiao Qinghe quickly stopped her, berating her with a stern expression, ¡°Do you really want to be tied up and sent to the County Town?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll ask Changsun for some food, he won¡¯t refuse!¡± Madame Sun threw down these words, and ran off towards the direction where Qiao Xiaomai had left.


    Qiao Qinghe stomped his foot and hurried to follow her, calling Qiao Dazhu on his way, ¡°Dazhu,e and drag your grandmother back!¡±


    Although he is the head of the Qiao Family, he hasn¡¯t been able to assert his authority over the years, so much so that he can no longer control Madame Sun or his sons.


    Shouting is useless, all he can do is forcefully drag Madame Sun back.


    Qiao Dazhu acknowledged and quickly went after Madame Sun.


    Being young, he ran fast, overtaking Qiao Qinghe in a few steps and reaching Madame Sun. He was about to reach out to grab her when Madame Sun retaliated by scratching violently at his face.


    He was so frightened that he immediately retreated a few steps, giving Madame Sun the opportunity to continue running.


    Zhu Cuiying saw all this, screamed, and quickly ran over, berating, ¡°You foolish boy! Stop right there! You already have trouble finding a wife; if you ruin your face who will marry you now!¡±


    While verballyshing out at Qiao Dazhu, she held a deep resentment for Madame Sun in her heart, always treating only Sun Junyan as precious, while everyone else was just worthless mud in her eyes!


    Thinking about Madame Sun¡¯s past behavior, Zhu Cuiying quickly held back Qiao Dazhu. The bigger themotion, the better. After all, with Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s newfound abilities, she¡¯d take pleasure no matter who suffered between the sanctimonious old woman and that wretched girl.


    With this idea in mind, she called over a few people standing at the doorway and they all followed.


    They jumped in when opportunities arose, otherwise, they just enjoyed the spectacle. Either way, they didn¡¯t lose anything.


    Thus, Qiao Ying, Qiao Meipan, Qiao Changfu, and Qiao Erzhu all followed, and a crowd ran towards Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s house.


    Qiao Xiaomai and Qiao Dami were back home, where Qiao Changshun was washing more than a hundred chicken feet by the well, and casually asked as he saw them return, ¡°Your grandma didn¡¯t give you a hard time, did she?¡±


    ¡°No, grandpa was there.¡± Qiao Xiaomai entered their house, filled a basket with three kilograms of bean sprouts, and prepared to send them to the Tong Family.


    Qiao Changshun saw her leading Qiao Dami about to go out, and suddenly said, ¡°When you go to the townter, get some fabric.¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡± Qiao Xiaomai was puzzled.


    ¡°For you and your brother to make some clothes.¡±


    Last year, when some silver was found, Zhuang Luhe got several pieces of hemp fabric and made new clothes for the whole family.


    But hemp clothing can¡¯tpare with silk. Given that Qiao Xiaomai inherited Zhuang Luhe¡¯s good looks, once she puts on bright and attractive clothing, he didn¡¯t believe Tong Sang wouldn¡¯t give Qiao Xiaomai a second look.


    Of course, he didn¡¯t dare to share these thoughts with Qiao Xiaomai.


    ¡°We have money now, you and your brother can dress better.¡± His tone was of concerned, sounding very natural.


    Qiao Xiaomai didn¡¯t think much about it, she agreed, and pushed open the big door of the courtyard.


    Just as the siblings had stepped a few feet away, Madame Sun appeared from around a corner, running over while panting heavily.


    Qiao Xiaomai narrowed her eyes, sensing trouble, pulled Qiao Dami back to the doorway.


    Madame Sun noticed her movements, huffed coldly, ran over a few more steps, sat down at Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s doorstep, and shouted loudly, ¡°Changsun, Changsun, Changsun! Come out here!¡±


    When Qiao Changshun heard her voice, it rmed him. He hastily stood up, forgetting to wipe the water off his hands, limped to the doorway, and seeing Madame Sun sitting on the ground panting heavily, asked anxiously, ¡°Mother, what¡¯s wrong?¡±


    Madame Sun rolled her eyes at him, ¡°1 didn¡¯t eat enough at lunch, bring me a couple of in steamed buns, and a bowl of fatty meat!¡±

 Chapter 118 - 118: Changing Strategy

    Chapter 118: Changing Strategy


    Trantor: 549690339


    When Qiao Changshun heard this, he was troubled.


    He had gone to town today and bought two grass carps and a pile of chicken feet. They had eaten the two grass carps for lunch and the chicken feet were still raw, just defrosted.


    Three days ago, he had gone to town and bought big bones, pork intestines, pork belly, and pigs¡¯ feet. But it had been raining thesest few days, and his family of three had eaten all of these up.


    ¡°Mom, we have steamed buns but no fatty meat,¡± he answered honestly.


    ¡°Your family is as rich as a silver mine, and now when your father and 1 havee, you can¡¯t even bear to share some fatty meat with me?!¡± The matriarch of the Sun family nted her eyes, her face ferocious, her tone rude. ¡°You unfilial son, I have spoiled you in vain before!¡±


    Upon hearing this, Qiao Xiaomai rolled her eyes.


    She had previously exposed the so-called affection of the matriarch of the Sun family in front of everyone, but who knew that she would still have the face to bring it up again. A shameless person is really invincible.


    ¡°No, we don¡¯t have any fatty meat at home at the moment, only steamed buns,¡± Qiao Changshun exined with his head down.


    ¡°Then what does your family have at the moment!¡± The matriarch of the Sun family demanded.


    ¡°Uh¡­ just the steamed buns.¡±


    For someone who used to struggle with regr meals, leftovers?


    Oh no, there¡¯s no such thing in his life.


    These days, the quality of their meals had improved a lot, so he was eating more. Unless Qiao Xiaomai really made too much, his family did not have leftovers.


    Conveniently, the lunch was boiled fish. He and Qiao Dami, who had never tasted this delicious food before, ate till their stomachs were round. Six jin of fish meat, arge pot full, the three of them ate it clean, even wiping the bottom of the pot clean with the steamed buns, leaving no traces of oil.


    ¡°You ungrateful son, hurry up and prepare it for me! I want to eat the pork and ss noodles 1 sawst time,¡± the matriarch of the Sun family scolded.


    ¡°We don¡¯t have any pork at home.¡±


    ¡°Then go buy some from the Jiang family!¡± The matriarch of the Sun family spurted out her words, seeing Qiao Dami standing next to her without a word, she ordered, ¡°Dami, go bring me a bowl of water.¡±


    She had run all the way and was dying of thirst!


    Qiao Changshun looked helplessly at Qiao Xiaomai. The Jiang family ughtered pigs every day, the majority of which were carted off to sell in town. Nevertheless, they kept some at home for the vigers to buy.


    But since Zhuang Liihe had previously rejected the proposal of Jiang Zhuangzhuang, buying meat there right now¡­


    It was inconvenient!


    ¡°What are you standing around for? Go!¡± Seeing the three of them standing still, the matriarch of the Sun family was even more irritable.


    Qiao Xiaomai patted Qiao Dami¡¯s head, and Qiao Dami ran home. After a while, she came out with a bowl of water.


    The matriarch of the Sun family took it and gulped it down, then red at Qiao Changshun, ¡°Heat an egg with hot water, add cane sugar!¡±


    Thest time she hade, she had seen everything that was in the Qiao family¡¯s kitchen.


    Qiao Changshun rubbed his hands nervously, still looking at Qiao Xiaomai.


    Qiao Xiaomai raised an eyebrow, the matriarch of the Sun family used to snatch whatever she could when she visited before, but now she only wanted food. Had she changed her strategy?


    Thinking of this, she spoke up, ¡°We¡¯ll pack some steamed buns for you, along with a few chicken feet and eggs. You go back home and make yourself something, Grandma. My Dad and 1 are pretty busy.¡±


    Honestly, given their situation, she didn¡¯t mind giving the matriarch of the Sun family some food.


    Who could change the fact that she was her grandmother?


    Who could change the fact that, among the Qiao brothers, her family was the richest right now?


    The richest one naturally has to offer the most to respect their elders. Back in her previous life, whenever her despicable dad returned to his hometown, he would bring all sorts ofrge and small packages to fill the trunk of the car, pushing money on them as if they were desperate for it. He took more gifts home than his brothersbined.


    She knew this principle.


    But when it came to the matriarch of the Sun family, it only applied to food. She wouldn¡¯t give her anything that could be sold for money.


    The matriarch of the Sun family had changed her tactics, but she wasn¡¯t dumb either..

 Chapter 119 - 119: Need to Eat and Wear

    Chapter 119: Need to Eat and Wear


    Trantor: 549690339


    Hearing Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s words, Mrs. Sun pped her thigh and started wailing, ¡°You¡¯re heartless! Even though your family sits on a mountain of gold and silver, you want to dismiss me with just a few steamed buns and eggs. You¡¯re such a heartless and unfilial son!¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai raised a brow, toozy to deal with such talk.


    Qiao Changshun just kept his head bowed, staying silent.


    Where in his family was there a mountain of gold and silver? They could hardly afford to pay someone to harvest the wheat now.


    The cold jelly noodles sold for fifty taels, and they started making tofu and bean curd less than ten days ago. The money they earned each day was less than one tael on slow days, and just about two taels on good ones. So the money they had earned these days was merely around sixty to seventy taels. However, buying thend cost eighteen taels, and plus all the other stuff they had bought in these days, quite a bit of money had been spent.


    Based on his estimation, Qiao Xiaomai only had about thirty to forty taels of cash.


    In the future, they would have three hundred acres of wheat. It would cost quite a bit to hire people to harvest it.


    Seeing that both Qiao Changshun and Qiao Xiaomai didn¡¯t respond, Mrs. Sun stopped wailing, her face hardened, and she was about to continue ranting.


    Qiao Qinghe appeared, panting heavily at the entrance, followed by Qiao Dazhu, Zhu Cuiying and others.


    Upon seeing these people, Mrs. Sun quickly swallowed the curses on her lips. She red at Qiao Changshun, ¡°Where are my steamed buns and eggs? Bring them here!¡±


    That¡¯s right, before Sun Junyan left, he kept reminding her not to do tant robbing which might get her bound and sent to the County Town as a bandit.


    Sun Junyan had asked her to change her strategy. If Qiao Xiaomai was insistent on not giving her any cash, then she would demand goods, regardless of whether it was food or clothing.


    As for goods, eggs could be sold for money.


    And white steamed buns, these were something the Qiao family couldn¡¯t afford.


    Seeing that Qiao Qinghe was about to catch her and take her back, Mrs. Sun quickly switched her tactics, stopping her cursing and wailing. First, she would take the goods away!


    Hearing this, Qiao Changshun was stunned. Why was she so easy to talk to this time?


    ¡°What are you waiting for!¡± Mrs. Sun saw him standing still and quickly urged him on.


    Coming back to his senses, Qiao Changshun turned around and walked towards the kitchen.


    Just then, a breathless Qiao Qinghe arrived at the door. He bent down to grab Mrs. Sun, ¡°Get back home, stop making a fool of yourself!¡±


    ¡°I just asked Changshun for some food, how is that making a fool of myself!¡± Mrs. Sun dodged his arm, quickly standing up. She dusted off her clothes, squared her shoulders and started arguing with Qiao Qinghe, ¡°Changshun has money now. It¡¯s not a disgrace for him to get something tasty to respect his mother. How is that a disgrace?!¡±


    Qiao Qinghe¡¯s eyebrows furrowed. He looked at Qiao Xiaomai, ¡°She just wanted some food?¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai nodded.


    Qiao Qinghe was shocked; just a moment ago, Mrs. Sun was shouting about mountains of gold and silver, and now she just wanted food?


    Had she changed her nature?


    Not only was he shocked, the Qiao family members following him were also surprised. It was strange that Mrs. Sun, who usually acted like a bandit, was asking so little this time!


    While they puzzled over this, Qiao Changshun came out with a basket.


    He brought out all of the remaining five white steamed buns and ten eggs.


    Seeing what was in the basket, Mrs. Sun dissatisfiedly said, ¡°Is this all? It¡¯s not even enough to fill my teeth spaces!¡±


    Qiao Changshun awkwardly exined, ¡°We only have these five buns left, and just these few eggs.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai usually bought a variety of items, but they were never inrge quantities.


    ¡°Then give me a bag of white flour, I¡¯ll make steamed buns at home!¡± Mrs. Sun said with a grim face, ¡°Also, that tofu; as its mother, 1 want to have a taste, you won¡¯t refuse that, right?!¡±


    ¡°Also, the weather is getting hot. I need to change this short shirt.. Give me a cloth roll!¡±

 Chapter 120 - 120:1 Will Buy It For You Tomorrow

    Chapter 120:1 Will Buy It For You Tomorrow


    Trantor: 549690339


    Cloth, in this era and space, there is no cotton. Cloth is generally divided into two types, hemp and silk.


    ording to the ¡°Daqi Law¡±, taxes should be paid in hemp, so cloth is a hard currency in Daqi that can be directly used to buy things.


    A piece of cloth here is about thirty meters long, even the roughest kind of hemp, it costs several hundred copper coins.


    Flour too, a bag of white flour, the usual kind in a hemp bag, also costs several hundred copper coins per bag.


    When Mrs. Sun said this, Qiao Xiaomai became more convinced that her strategy had changed.


    ¡°Grandma, we don¡¯t have any white flour or cloth in our house right now, let alone tofu. Let¡¯s wait until tomorrow, I¡¯ll go to town and buy some for you.¡± Qiao Xiaomai spoke timidly.


    Qiao Changshun nodded again and again, ¡°Let¡¯s wait for tomorrow!¡±


    At this moment, the house was indeed out of stock.


    Seeing that Qiao Xiaomai agreed so readily, Mrs. Sun became suspicious. She looked Qiao Xiaomai up and down and warned, ¡°Don¡¯t try to fool me with rotten goods!¡±


    ¡°You shut up!¡± Before Qiao Xiaomai could speak, Qiao Qinghe cut her off. He stepped out, grabbed Mrs. Sun, and dragged her back. He didn¡¯t forget to remind Qiao Xiaomai, ¡°Xiaomai, don¡¯t listen to her nonsense. Don¡¯t buy the flour or cloth.¡±


    Being tugged by him, Mrs. Sun stumbled but didn¡¯t resist. She just told Qiao Meipan, ¡°Meipan, take the basket from your second brother.¡±


    Even a mosquito¡¯s meat, however small, is still meat!


    Qiao Meipan agreed and walked forward, taking the small basket from Qiao Changshun¡¯s hand.


    Her gaze swept over Qiao Xiaomai, a shadow shed in her eyes. She vowed to destroy that bewitching fox-like face!


    So, Mrs. Sun¡¯s group came in hurriedly and left quietly.


    Apart from Mrs. Sun¡¯s few wails, everyone else was quiet.


    Hearing themotion, Yang Gun came out from her house, uttering noises of surprise. It was really strange, too strange.


    Seeing Yang Gun, Qiao Xiaomai smiled and asked, ¡°Auntie, aren¡¯t you going to work in the fields?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m about to go.¡± Yang Gun chatted with Qiao Xiaomai for a while, then turned back home.


    It had just rained, which was a good time for weeding. Once the weeding was done, they could just wait for the wheat harvest.


    Seeing this, Qiao Xiaomai also didn¡¯t leave for the Tong Family¡¯s. She put the bean sprouts back in the house and helped Qiao Changshun wash the chicken feet.


    After washing the chicken feet, the three of them rode on a donkey cart back to town.


    Once they arrived at the town, the three of them went straight to Jiwaiju.


    This surprised Shopkeeper He a bit, this youngdy wasn¡¯t angry anymore?


    But he did not want to directly admit that he had sent people to watch this family¡¯s movements, he had to pretend he didn¡¯t know that this family had returned to Anping Vige, andughed, ¡°Oh, you¡¯re here, please sit down, why didn¡¯t youe to Jiwaiju for lunch? I¡¯ve been expecting you and preparing good food and wine!¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai smiled generously, ¡°We had lots of chores to do at home, so we returned home for a bit. Shopkeeper, are the soybeans ready?¡±


    ¡°All ready, just waiting for you.¡± Seeing Qiao Xiaomai getting to the point, Shopkeeper He naturally didn¡¯t banter, leading her to the room where the stone mill was kept.


    Meanwhile, he didn¡¯t forget to pull out the deed from his bosom and hand it to her.


    Qiao Xiaomai took the deed and began teaching how to make tofu. By the time the tofu was shaped, the sun had already set.


    This family of three didn¡¯t want to eat dinner at Jiwaiju. Shopkeeper He packed a few dishes in a small jar for them to take home.


    With that, the tofu and bean curd business was officially sold. From now on, Qiao Xiaomai couldn¡¯t use tofu and bean curd for profit, except for her own consumption..

 Chapter 121 - 121: Braised Chicken Feet

    Chapter 121: Braised Chicken Feet


    Trantor: 549690339


    By the time they arrived home, it was already pitch dark. After eating the meals provided by Shopkeeper He, Qiao Xiaomai started to cook braised chicken feet.


    Since they had already eaten the chili pepper taken from the dimension, she didn¡¯t use any chili.


    She first boiled the chicken feet in a pot, then took them out and poured out the water from the pot.


    Refilling it with water, she ced a bundle of scallions, ginger, and anise together with the chicken feet into the pot to boil. After the chicken feet were done, she added soy sauce for color, continued boiling it for a bit, and the braised chicken feet were ready.


    This was the simplest method, but the taste wasn¡¯t bad. The chicken feetpletely melted in the mouth, bones and meat easily separating with a gentle bite.


    Qiao Xiaomai stood by the stove, chewing on three before she stopped.


    Qiao Dami also enjoyed it, his face smeared with pot liquor and didn¡¯t bother to wipe it away.


    Qiao Changshun ate several of them, praising, ¡°Xiaomai, your cooking skills are getting better and better.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai nodded, that was natural.


    However, if she had chili, it would be even better.


    ¡°Take these chicken feet to the Zuixian Building tomorrow. Sell them for one copper coin each. See if Shopkeeper Zhou wants them.¡±


    As for the Extreme vor House, because of what Shopkeeper He said about the dowry, she didn¡¯t want to go there for the time being.


    ¡°Okay.¡± Qiao Changshun nodded. There were over 100 of them, and the three of them couldn¡¯t finish all. They definitely needed to sell them.


    After the three family members had the chicken feet, they simply washed up and plunged to their respective rooms to sleep.


    Without the need to make tofu, Qiao Xiaomai and Qiao Changshun slept in until dawn. Since they ran out of steamed buns, Qiao Xiaomai made fried cakes for breakfast, fed the chicks, put the chicken feet into earthen jars, and the three of them rode the donkey cart to town.


    Yesterday, during the tofu making, Shopkeeper He had said that the donkey was given to Qiao Xiaomai. From this point on, this donkey cart had be an asset of the Qiao Family.


    Upon arriving in town, the three headed straight to Zuixian Building.


    The chicken feet had soaked in the brine overnight, further absorbed its vor, andpletely lost the brackish taste. After tasting one, Shopkeeper Zhou immediately said, ¡°I¡¯ll take both jars of these.¡±


    There were a total of 100 chicken feet in the two jars, which amounted to 100 copper coins. Qiao Xiaomai only took 50 copper coins, then asked with slight embarrassment, ¡°Shopkeeper, can you exchange these 50 copper coins for steamed buns?¡±


    The Sun Family wanted white flour, but she would purposefully only give them white steamed buns.


    She didn¡¯t believe that the Sun Family would carry a basket to the town to sell white steamed buns.


    Even if the Sun Family had this intention, Qiao Qinghe would definitely not agree.


    Shopkeeper Zhou was momentarily stunned, but quickly nodded, ¡°No problem.¡±


    The Zuixian Building, as a restaurant, also steamed white buns. Two for one copper coin, so 50 copper coins would be 100 buns.


    He ordered someone to get a clean hemp sack and bagged up the 100 steamed buns.


    He then discussed with Qiao Xiaomai about the small business of the braised chicken feet. Qiao Xiaomai would collect the chicken feet every three days, cook them, and then deliver them.


    After leaving the Zuixian Building, Qiao Xiaomai went to the fabric store to buy two sets of linen clothes for Qiao Qing and the Sun Family.


    She wouldn¡¯t give them the fabric. If the Sun Family sold the ready-made clothes, she definitely wouldn¡¯t give them anymore next time.


    Even if it was to show respect to the elders, one cannot keep buying things all the time. Her own family stuff was not all together yet.


    After buying the clothes, the family went to buy eggs and grass carps before driving the donkey cart back home.


    Once home, Qiao Xiaomai and Qiao Dami went to the mountains to gather firewood; after Qiao Changshun nted the chili peppers, he started making the wooden boxes needed for sprouting soybeans. If they nned to sprout soybeans on arge scale in the future, they needed to be prepared.


    For lunch, they had the delicious boiled fish again, but this time Qiao Xiaomai served a bowl to Qiao Qing and let Qiao Changshun stay at home for lunch. She and Qiao Dami then went to the old court of the Qiao Family..

 Chapter 122 - 122: He Feels Guilty in His Heart

    Chapter 122: He Feels Guilty in His Heart


    Trantor: 549690339


    To Qiao Xiaomai, carrying one hundred steamed buns wasn¡¯t a burden. A sack hung over her shoulder, and four sets of clothesy in the basket on her back. Qiao Dami held a small basket, which contained a bowl of boiled fish and a te of braised chicken feet. The siblings appeared at the old courtyard gate of the Qiao Family.


    People in the old courtyard were having lunch. Zhu Cuiying had cut the five white steamed buns Qiao Xiaomai had given her the day before into pieces, and stir-fried them with wild vegetables in a pan, serving a spoonful to each person.


    Besides the fried steamed buns, there were also coarse flour steamed buns and thin Xiaomi porridge that could serve as mirrors.


    Seeing the Qiao siblings, Qiao Qinghe put down his bowl and stood up. His brows furrowed tightly, ¡°What are you two doing here? Go back home!¡±


    Sun Family¡¯s matriarch was sitting at the courtyard¡¯s entrance. Upon hearing Qiao Qinghe¡¯s words, she dropped therge, coarse bowl in her hands and rushed over to Qiao Xiaomai, ¡°You young girl, what¡¯s in this bag?¡±


    As she spoke, she took the small basket from Qiao Dami. Her movements were so abrupt that much of the broth from the boiled fish spilled out.


    Seeing this, Qiao Dami silently moved behind her older sister without uttering a word.


    Qiao Xiaomai set down the sack on her shoulder, ¡°In here are steamed buns, made from white flour.¡±


    Upon hearing this, the Sun Family matriarch¡¯s face fell immediately, ¡°1 asked for flour!¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai put down the basket behind her and retorted, ¡°You don¡¯t want it this time and there won¡¯t be anything next time.¡±


    Upon hearing this, the Sun Family matriarch quickly grabbed the sack.


    Although the desired result wasn¡¯t obtained, it didn¡¯t matter because at least something was received.


    Having done so, she noticed the clothes in the basket. She only gave a slight hum instead of cursing, and said, ¡°Wait here.¡±


    Having said this, she turned and was about to take the basket and sack back to her house.


    Qiao Qinghe came out at this moment, his face dark, and said, ¡°Give it back to Xiaomai!¡±


    ¡°Give back what! Changshun has money now; what¡¯s wrong with paying his respects to us with some white steamed buns? You are his biological father! A few white steamed buns won¡¯t make him poor!¡± The matriarch of the Sun family circumvented him and entered her house.


    Zhu Cuiying came over with a beaming face, ¡°Mother, where should I put this?¡±


    ¡°Where to put it? Just eat it directly!¡± The harlot, all these are things that can¡¯t be taken to the town to give to Sun Junyan. It¡¯s definitely deliberate!


    ¡°Okay.¡± Zhu Cuiying¡¯s eyes narrowed into slits as sheughed, seeing both fish and chicken feet, these wretches must indeed be rich!


    ¡°Grandpa, these are clothes bought for you and grandma.¡± Qiao Xiaomai handed the clothes to a visibly embarrassed Qiao Qinghe, ¡°Grandma is right, these are things my father should give, so you can ept it with peace of mind.¡±


    Her eyes were clear and her expression genuine, making Qiao Qinghe even more ashamed, ¡°No, no, no, please take it back.¡±


    He felt guilty.


    Initially, when they settled in Anping Vige, he was suffering from numerous health problems due to pent-up frustrations. At that time, it was the Sun family who supported this family, and so he always felt inferior before them.


    Thus, he also neglected the upbringing of his children. By the time he paid attention, aside from Qiao Changshun and Sun Junyan, all the other children had gone astray.


    He felt guilty towards the Qiao Family siblings.


    However, at that time, to let Sun Junyan go to school, he tacitly epted the Sun family¡¯s bandit-like behavior for many years. This made his guilt towards Qiao Changshun even worse.


    He had privately given aid to Zhuang Luhe, but his aid turned out to be futile.


    Qiao Changsun was crippled, Zhuang Luhe had left. His second son¡¯s family had almost broken up.


    When Qiao Xiaomai pointed out that Qiao Changsun looked older than him, he was left speechless.


    He had made a mistake and his guilt towards Qiao Changsun¡¯s family deepened.


    This kind of guilt made him unable to ept Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s respect with ease..

 Chapter 123 - 123: Snatching Food

    Chapter 123: Snatching Food


    Trantor: 549690339


    ¡°Grandpa, you¡¯re the elder here, and this is something Dad is giving out of respect to you. If you don¡¯t ept it, Dad will definitely feel bad,¡± Qiao Xiaomai persuaded.


    Indeed, as the Sun Family had said, Qiao Qinghe is Qiao Changshun¡¯s biological father. To respect and honor one¡¯s father with gifts is nothing unusual.


    As for the past grievances, let them go. Whenpared with the Sun Family, Qiao Qinghe¡¯s faults could be brushed aside.


    ¡°Dami and I will be leaving now. Our dad is still waiting for us to eat at home.¡± Qiao Xiaomai didn¡¯t n to take the sacks, bowls, and baskets, she passed the clothes in her hands to Qiao Qinghe, grabbed her basket with one hand, and took Qiao Dami¡¯s hand with the other and left.


    Qiao Qinghe stood there dumbfounded, watching the siblings leave. His lips moved, but he said nothing.


    Qiao Xiaomai was right, he is the elder. Qiao Changshun¡¯s family is now affluent. If they didn¡¯t disy some form of respect towards him as an elder, it would be seen as unfilial.


    He had to ept these things.


    Over the past ten years, he had turned a blind eye to the Sun Family¡¯s plundering of Qiao Changshun¡¯s household, and now, Qiao Changshun was voluntarily bringing him items.


    He owed too much to this second son of his.


    Clutching the four sets of clothes that felt as heavy as a thousand pounds, Qiao Qinghe turned around to enter his home. Zhu Cuiying had put the boiled fish and chicken feet on the table, while the Sun Family had unravelled the sack, revealing the steamed buns inside.


    Qiao Meipan, Qiao Ying, Qiao Changfu, and Qiao Erzhu all gathered around. Some were picking at the fish and chicken feet while others were grabbing at the white steamed buns.


    The previous five white buns, which were served with a side of stir-fried wild vegetables, were hardly enough to fill their appetites. Now suddenly, there were sacks of white buns, and they certainly intended to eat their fill.


    Then there was the boiled fish, glistening with oil. They could never afford to use that much oil in their own cooking. Earlier, the buns ended up ckened because of theck of oil.


    And those chicken feet, usually served when boiling chicken, had more bone than meat and were thus less favoredpared to other parts. But Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s braised chicken feet were vorful and tender. After having one, they couldn¡¯t help but want another.


    ¡°This girl¡¯s culinary skills are even better than Zhuang Luhe¡¯s!¡± Zhu Cuiying muttered. In her left hand, she held a white bun stuffed with two pieces of fish, while her right hand held a chicken foot she was gnawing at.


    Upon hearing this, the pleasure of enjoying the benefits quickly faded from Qiao Meipan and Qiao Ying¡¯s faces, their expressions collectively darkening.


    This damn girl was able to get close to Tong Sang by constant food offerings. Now that her cooking skills had improved even more, it was infuriating!


    Qiao Changfu was also nibbling on a chicken foot, and he casually remarked, ¡°Changshun¡¯s food isn¡¯t bad at all. Mom, I think you and dad should eat there every meal.¡±


    Zhu Cuiying, hearing this, promptly elbowed him.


    Damn nonsense!


    If the Sun Family and Qiao Qinghe started dining at Qiao Changshun¡¯s house, they wouldn¡¯t be able to enjoy these benefits anymore!


    Whatever benefits the Sun Family would get from Qiao Changshun would surely all be kept for Sun Junyan. There¡¯s no way they¡¯d think about their own family!


    After being jabbed by Zhu Cuiying, Qiao Changfu finally snapped back to his senses. He quickly added, ¡°Mom, the bean sprouts in this fish are pretty good.¡±


    The bean sprouts Qiao Xiaomai had brought yesterday were nched by Zhu Cuiying and served cold.


    With little addition of oil and salt, the delicate vor of the bean sprouts was far better than wild vegetables. The whole family had enjoyed them, so seeing the bean sprouts mixed with the fish, Qiao Changfu immediately suggested, ¡°Mom, let¡¯s get some more bean sprouts from Changshun¡¯s house!¡±


    ¡°Will do in a bit,¡± the Sun Family¡¯s matriarch nodded in agreement.


    As for dining at Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s house¡­


    Well, that¡¯s something worth considering..

 Chapter 124 - 124 Break Your Leg!

    Chapter 124: Break Your Leg!


    Trantor: 549690339


    Qiao Qinghe watched the scene before him, a sense of suffocation constricting his chest, the clothes he held in his hands feeling even heavier.


    These people, his own offspring and wife, ming him, ming him¡­


    Years ago, when a flood struck his hometown, he led his wife, children, and fellow vigers to seek refuge in the north. However, one day, his wife, who was carrying their young son, identally fell into the rapid currents. Despite his desperate attempts to rescue them, he returned empty-handed.


    Sunk in despair, he spent his days in a daze, eventually losing track of his group, ending up in Anping Vige.


    At that time, he was feverish and copsed on the roadside. It was his father-inw, the patriarch of the Sun Family, who took him in, paid for his treatment, helped him settle down, and then, through a drunken mistake, he was forced to marry into the Sun family as a son-inw.


    It seemed he had found a new life, but he never truly recovered from the death of his wife and son.


    Gradually, the true colors of the Sun Family began to emerge: their kindness had been feigned, a ploy to keep him with them.


    Back home, the Qiao Family had been fairly well-off, and he was a schr preparing for the exams to be a gifted schr. Now, he had be an inw of the Sun Family in this strange ce.


    His once gentle and virtuous wife had been reced by the shrewish Mrs. Sun.


    His lively and lovely son, never got the chance to explore the world before he passed away.


    His once lofty ambitions were crushed into dust by harsh reality.


    For the first few years, he was gued by a trapped sense of depression, which affected his health, often requiring medication, and he neglected the education of his children.


    He had treated Sun Junyan as his lost eldest son, yet, in order to allow Sun Junyan to study, he had condoned Mrs. Sun¡¯s bullying of Qiao Changshun and his family.


    Only when he heard Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s reprimand to Sun Junyan after yet another attempt to rob Changshun¡¯s family, did he realize the gravity of his mistakes.


    Amongst his children, the only one who had turned out decent was Qiao Changshun.


    Yet, he, as their father, had allowed Changshun to be oppressed for all these years.


    It was his fault for misjudging character.


    It was his fault for oppressing one son for the sake of another. With such a disgruntled family, he deserved this¡­


    Returning the clothes to the room, he silently walked into the courtyard. Only a small portion of fish and chicken ws was left ¨C what Mrs. Sun had specially saved for him.


    Over the years, no matter how unruly Mrs. Sun became, she had always served him dutifully.


    ¡°Old man, eat,¡± Mrs. Sun mouthed, while stuffing a steamed bun into her mouth, signaling him to start eating.


    ¡°Dazhu,e here,¡± he ignored Mrs. Sun, beckoning Qiao Dazhu over, and handed over the remaining fish and chicken ws to his eldest grandson.


    Of his family gathered here, his eldest grandson Dazhu was the only one who had turned out decent.


    Seeing this, Mrs. Sun pouted and grumbled, ¡°Why not let us have our meals at Changshun¡¯s house in the future?¡±


    ¡°During the split, you insisted on following Junyan,¡± retorted Qiao Qinghe coldly.


    Typically, the parents would live with the eldest son after the family separates; but back then, Mrs. Sun insisted on living with Junyan.


    ¡°I am following Xiaowu, but what¡¯s wrong with going to Changshun¡¯s house for a meal? I am his biological mother, I raised him through hardship,¡± Mrs. Sun defensively reasoned.


    No matter how much she had neglected Qiao Changshun, at the very least, he had grown up safe and sound. This debt of motherhood weighed heavier than a mountain!


    Qiao Qinghe¡¯s expression froze, his gaze sharp as a knife, ¡°If you dare to go, I¡¯ll break your legs!¡±


    After being blindsided and oppressing Qiao Changshun¡¯s family for over a decade, it was now his turn to make up for it..

 Chapter 125 - 125: Fight!

    Chapter 125: Fight!


    Trantor: 549690339


    In front of the Sun family, he had never stood with a straight backbone, owing to the many favors he had received from them.


    But now he chose to stand by his second son, Qiao Changshun.


    Therefore, he had to be tough against the Sun family.


    When Qiao Qinghe spoke, not just the Sun family, but everyone in the courtyard was stunned.


    Over the years, Qiao Qinghe had neverid a hand on anyone, yet now he was uttering such serious threats!


    The Sun family¡¯s matriarch pulled herself together, tossed the steamed bun she was holding onto the table, sprung up to argue with Qiao Qinghe, ¡°I am Changshun¡¯s biological mother I¡­¡±


    ¡°Shut up!¡± Qiao Qinghe suddenly raised his voice, cutting off her shouting, ¡°You know well what you¡¯ve done over the years! From now on, you can take whatever Changshun is willing to give you. But if you dare mess around when he¡¯s not willing, I will break your legs for real!¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t think I¡¯m frightening you. When Qiao Qinghe says something, he keeps his word!¡±


    To keep his guilt from drowning him and to satisfy the father¡¯s heart that had been selfish for over a decade, he had to be tough.


    Feeling that he was weak and thus allowing the Sun family¡¯s actions to go unchecked, even intending to divide the property and live apart, was not the right approach.


    Very inappropriate.


    These people were his family. Even if they had strayed, they were still his rtives by blood. He had to exert his authority as a family patriarch, discipline these people, and prevent them from making mistakes further. He couldn¡¯t let these misaligned beings trouble the only upright one.


    He couldn¡¯t, absolutely not.


    The Sun family¡¯s matriarch had never seen Qiao Qinghe like this before. His face was as cold as ice and his eyes as sharp as a knife. Her heart trembled subconsciously, then a sense of grievance welled up in her heart. Who was she doing all of this for?


    The food she needed, the clothes she wore, weren¡¯t they all for Qiao Qinghe and their little Xiaowu in the end?


    Thinking of all the efforts she had put into the family over the years, the Sun family¡¯s matriarch felt a surge of sadness, ¡°Oh God!¡± She pped her thigh and copsed onto the ground, wanting to have a good cry.


    Qiao Qinghe didn¡¯t stop her from crying. He just stepped into the kitchen and then came out holding a firewood stick as thick as a baby¡¯s arm and one meter long, ¡°It seems you never realised your mistakes. So today, I¡¯ll painstakingly exin each one.¡±


    Looking at the ckened firewood stick, the Sun family¡¯s matriarch was dumbfounded. All her words were stuck at the back of her throat and she couldn¡¯t say a thing.


    ¡°Changshun is your biological son, but you¡¯ve treated him like an enemy, constantly exploiting him over the years. This is not being kind.¡± Qiao Qinghe¡¯s face was cold as he raised the firewood stick and hit the Sun family¡¯s matriarch on her back. His voice was as cold and ruthless as ice.


    ¡°Oh!¡± A heartbreaking scream pierced the sky.


    The stick firmly hit her back and the pain immediately spread throughout her body. The Sun family¡¯s matriarch jumped up, trying to dodge, but Qiao Qinghe had no intention of letting her go.


    He never hit people, especially his wife. But this time, he had to establish his authority as the head of the household, he had to make the Sun family¡¯s matriarch fearful.


    Therefore, the old Qiao family courtyard became lively with the wails of the Sun family¡¯s matriarch echoing everywhere.


    It wasn¡¯t fake crying this time, real tears were streaming down.


    People like Qiao Meipan and Qiao Changfu huddled to one side, keeping their heads down, trying to make their presence as small as possible.


    But how could Qiao Qinghe let them go when he was setting the house in order? Qiao Changfu also received several strokes of the stick, including Qiao Meipan who was unmarried, as her offense was rummaging through Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s housest time.


    Zhu Cuiying, the daughter-inw, was not hit by Qiao Qinghe, however, he did give his fourteen-year-old son Qiao Erzhu a stroke of the stick. A strayed person needed a stick to be forcefully straightened.


    However, he had also been wrong over the years, so in the end, he also hit himself a few times, showing no mercy.


    His body was in pain, but he felt relieved in his heart.


    The guilt, somewhat dissipated..

 Chapter 126 - 126: Too Cheap

    Chapter 126: Too Cheap


    Trantor: 549690339


    Qiao Xiaomai was unaware of themotion in the old courtyard. She came back home with Qiao Dami and then started to have lunch.


    Boiled fish, chicken feet, and white steamed buns; the taste was excellent!


    However, ever since she came here, she had been eating noodle-based dishes. As she chewed on her fish, she started to crave steamed white rice.


    She was ustomed to eating noodles, but she also liked white rice. If she went too long without it, she found herself longing for it.


    Deciding to act on her craving, after lunch, she scrubbed the iron pot, washed a pound of rice, put it in the pot, added water, and started to steam it.


    Taking advantage of the break while the fire was lit, she packed two pounds of bean sprouts into a basket and gave them to Qiao Dami to deliver to the Tong Family.


    She was expecting Tong Tiehu to promote her bean sprouts business in the vige. Besides, considering Tong Tiehu¡¯s past help, she was obliged to send these bean sprouts.


    ¡°Sister, why don¡¯t youe with me?¡± Qiao Dami pulled at her clothes and asked.


    ¡°I have to tend to the fire.¡± And besides, she really didn¡¯t want to see Tong Sang again.


    Qiao Xiaomai ruffled Qiao Dami¡¯s hair and urged, ¡°Go on, make it quick. Once the rice is cooked, I¡¯ll make you some fried rice.¡±


    ¡°What is fried rice?¡± Qiao Dami asked curiously, his big eyes shiny and ck.


    Zhuang Luhe rarely bought rice, and even when she did, it was for making porridge. So, he not only had he never eaten fried rice, he hadn¡¯t even heard of it.


    ¡°You¡¯ll know when youe back.¡± Qiao Xiaomai purposely held back the exnation.


    Qiao Dami nodded happily, and raced out the door, ¡°I¡¯m off then!¡±


    ¡°Slow down, don¡¯t trip.¡± Qiao Xiaomai couldn¡¯t help but advise.


    ¡°I know-!¡± Along with these words, Qiao Dami¡¯s small figure quickly disappeared from view.


    Qiao Xiaomai chuckled, then returned to the kitchen to focus on tending to the fire.


    This was her first time using therge iron pot to cook rice, so she had to keep a close eye on it.


    Qiao Dami, holding a small basket filled with two pounds of bean sprouts, hopped and skipped all the way to the Tong residence, arriving quickly.


    The small boy went up and knocked on the door, ¡°Brother Tong, Brother Tong!¡±


    Tong Sang, was sitting in his room reading a book, with Tong Tiehu having apanied Tong Erhu and Zhu Hongyun down to the fields, and Qian leaving with them, Tong Sang was the only one left at home.


    Hearing the shout, he put the book in his hand down, walked over and opened the door to the courtyard.


    Qiao Dami was looking up at him, his small face beaming and his hands holding up the small basket, ¡°Brother Tong, these bean sprouts were grown by my sister from yellow beans, I came to let you taste them!¡±


    Tong Sang nced at the bean sprouts, and a kind smile appeared on his handsome face, ¡°Your sister hase up with a new food again?¡±


    He wasn¡¯t surprised, not in the slightest.


    Being able to produce a weapon from thin air, and even nts he had never seen before, she definitely harbored immense secrets.


    A bit of food, was nothing inparison.


    ¡°Yes!¡± Qiao Dami nodded emphatically, ¡°Sister used the fish to make boiled fish, it was so fragrant and delicious!¡±


    Tong Sang looked at his childish disy, the smile on his handsome face deepening, ¡°Come in.¡±


    He took the basket in one hand, and led Qiao Dami into the courtyard with the other.


    ¡°You sit down first.¡± He made sure Qiao Dami wasfortably seated on a stool, then he went into the kitchen to empty the bean sprouts into a wooden basin. His gaze swept over the kitchen, where he saw a basin of sheep¡¯s milk on the stove, which he put into the basket.


    Then, he cut two pounds of meat and ced it in the basket as well.


    The tofu and bean curd that Qiao Xiaomai had made previously were very valuable. This bean sprout is a new food, and the return gift he gives must be generous.


    When he came out holding the basket, Qiao Dami eximed, ¡°Brother Tong, I can¡¯t ept this.¡±


    ¡°This is a return gift, a gesture of reciprocity.¡± Tong Sang exined.


    ¡°It¡¯s too much, sister said these bean sprouts cost one coin for a pound.¡± Qiao Dami exined as well.


    Despite Qiao Xiaomai not having told him this, he had his own measure in mind. Two pounds of bean sprouts costed two coins, and the piece of meat could exchange for lots and lots of bean sprouts!


    Tong Sang was slightly taken aback, somewhat surprised.. Were the bean sprouts really that cheap?

 Chapter 127 - 127 Eat the Food Cooked by Your Sister

    Chapter 127: Eat the Food Cooked by Your Sister


    Trantor: 549690339


    ¡°Brother Tong, hand me the meat and the basket,¡± Qiao Dami said.


    He was craving for fried rice at home!


    Tong Sang responded with a slight smirk, ¡°Here you go. We have plenty at home anyway. If you feel shy, you can bring me something delicious next time.¡±


    Qiao Dami let out a sound of agreement, his face lit up with a bright smile, ¡°My sister is steaming rice at home. She¡¯s making fried rice. The food she cooks is delicious. She¡¯s also stewed some chicken feet. They smell so good!¡±


    With that, the bright smile on his face good froze for a moment, quickly reced by a look of regret. Oh no!


    He forgot to bring some chicken feet for Brother Tong!


    ¡°Brother Tong, next time I visit, I¡¯ll definitely bring you some chicken feet!¡± he promised, his small fists tightly clenched.


    He was introverted and didn¡¯t have many friends. Though he had a lot of cousins, there was only one who was friendly, but that kind Qiao Dazhu was too old to y with him.


    Each time he came to Tong Family due to some family matters, Tong Sang was always very gracious, pampering him like a loving elder brother.


    He quickly took a liking to this older brother!


    Whenever he had anything delicious, he naturally wanted to share it with this brother, but it wasn¡¯t possible for this brother toe over to his house for meals.


    Therefore, his small face showed genuine regret. ¡°Brother Tong, you can¡¯t taste my sister¡¯s cooking because you¡¯re not at my house. That¡¯s such a shame.¡±


    The smile on Tong Sang¡¯s handsome face deepened as he ruffled Qiao Dami¡¯s head, saying, ¡°There will be a chance.¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡± Qiao Dami looked at him with a puzzled expression, tilting his little head.


    ¡°Your Grandpa Tong is about to celebrate his sixtieth birthday soon. At that time, we can invite your sister to cook for the birthday banquet, then I can taste your sister¡¯s cooking.¡±


    ¡°Oh, 1 see!¡± Qiao Dami understood, then nodded vigorously. ¡°Okay, okay, okay, at that time, I¡¯ll have my sister cook Tofu, Bean Curd, and Bean Sprouts. Brother Tong, you and Grandpa Tong must taste it well!¡±


    ¡°Alright,¡± Tong Sang nodded indulgently.


    ¡°Brother Tong, I am heading home now!¡±


    ¡°Carrying the basket, be careful not to spill the goat milk,¡± Tong Sang reminded him.


    ¡°I won¡¯t spill it!¡± Qiao Dami promptly confirmed, then he picked up the basket and left.


    Tong Sang watched his small figure disappear, arched his thick eyebrows and turned back into his room to continue reading.


    Now that Qiao Xiaomai has appeared in Anping Vige, he naturally had to take care of it.


    He should get closer to them and understand their situation better.


    The distance between the Tong and Qiao Family was quite far. By the time Qiao Dami managed to carry home the goat milk carefully, the aroma of rice was already wafting through their courtyard.


    He cheerfully cried out and went into the kitchen with the goat milk, quickly repeating everything Tong Sang had told him.


    Qiao Xiaomai was a bit surprised.


    After crossing over, she was so busy trying to make money that she almost forgot about her identity: she was the daughter of the vige¡¯s head chef. Whenever there were asions in the vige, people woulde to invite Zhuang Luhe, and she used to assist.


    In the past, she mostly assisted, and the main dishes were prepared by Zhuang Luhe. Now that Tong Sang had mentioned it, did he mean to hand the position of head chef for the birthday banquet over to her?


    She felt slightly nervous.


    She only ever cooked in her own kitchen and had never faced such a big event!


    Thinking this, her gaze fell on the pot of goat milk.


    She leaned over to take a closer look. The goat¡¯s milk had been boiled and the goaty smell had already been removed; it only needed to be heated up.


    She clicked her tongue a few times. This was certainly something even better than cow milk ¨C good for the five organs, nourishing the heart and lungs, treating weakness, benefiting the skin, and promoting healthy hair. As recorded in ancient texts, drinking goat milk regrly gave one a youthful appearance.


    Running her hand over her somewhat coarse cheek, Qiao Xiaomai felt that it was absolutely necessary to raise a goat..

 Chapter 128 - 128: Who Took My Sheep Milk

    Chapter 128: Who Took My Sheep Milk


    Trantor: 549690339


    As a vige girl ustomed to tough manualbor, Qiao Xiaomai had inherited Zhuang Luhe¡¯s good looks and fairplexion. But when it came to the delicacy of her skin, it was far from the smoothness of a peeled egg.


    Even her palms were covered with light calluses.


    Plus, due to chronic malnutrition, despite being nearly fifteen, she was short and her developmentgged behind. Without any feminine curves, she was t as a board, and even her female cycle had yet tomence.


    So, when she now suddenly saw this small pot of sheep¡¯s milk, her innate love for beauty was instantly stirred.


    With no worries about food and clothing, she could now consider other things!


    Thinking this, Qiao Xiaomai put the pot of sheep¡¯s milk on the stove, nning to drink itter tonight.


    The rice in the pot was already steamed and ready to eat.


    The fragrant, fluffy white rice, full and tender, tempted Qiao Changshun and Qiao Dami¡ªwho had just had lunch¡ªto eat another half bowl each. They devoured the in white rice without any side dishes, simply relishing it.


    After tasting a bite, Qiao Xiaomai nned to make fried rice.


    Unable to help but burp, Qiao Changshun said, ¡°Make it in the evening; I really can¡¯t eat any more now.¡±


    At his side, Qiao Dami nodded enthusiastically.


    Although he really wanted to eat the fried rice, there was simply no room in his little stomach at this point.


    Qiao Xiaomai thought for a moment, then nodded, ¡°Alright.¡±


    Thus, the three family members left the kitchen, each busy with their own tasks. Qiao Changshun continued making the tools needed for growing raw bean sprouts, while Qiao Dami and Qiao Xiaomai headed out to collect firewood and cut green grass.


    Farmers, they were always busy with chores.


    Tong¡¯s House.


    At dusk, the few who had gone to work in the fields returned home.


    Having toiled in the fields all day, Zhu Hongyun and Tong Erhu were smudged with dirt, both looking rather ill.


    Ever since their previous argument, except for the three rainy days, Tong Tiehu had indeed forced them to work in the fields every day.


    Since marrying into the Tong family, Zhu Hongyun had never tilled the fields. And, this was the first time Tong Erhu was working so diligently. After a few days, the couple was so exhausted they could barely straighten their backs.


    With a quick rinse of her hands, Zhu Hongyun stepped into the kitchen.


    Her throat was a bit parched. There was leftover sheep¡¯s milk from lunch, and she wanted a sip to moisten her throat.


    However, the pot of sheep¡¯s milk that had been left on the stove was gone. Standing at the kitchen entrance, she asked Tong Sang, who wasing out of the room, ¡°Sang, did you drink the leftover sheep¡¯s milk from lunch?¡± ¡°Dami came by to deliver the bean sprouts, so I gave her the pot of sheep¡¯s milk as a token of appreciation. I also gave her some pork,¡± replied Tong Sang.


    Upon hearing this, Zhu Hongyun¡¯s already gloomy face turned even darker.


    Influenced by Zhu Cuiying, she had always disliked Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s family.


    The root of theirst argument had been Qiao Xiaomai, and they were being punished with fieldwork because of her as well.


    Now, Qiao Xiaomai had taken her sheep¡¯s milk!


    A fury ignited within her, bursting forth, Zhu Hongyun couldn¡¯t help but blurt out, ¡°You know how precious this sheep¡¯s milk is. She casually brings something over and you give her both pork and sheep¡¯s milk in return. Are you really interested in her?¡±


    ¡°We can milk the sheep every day. Dami taking the trouble to bring the bean sprouts, our family should give something in return. For Grandfather¡¯s sixtieth birthday, we¡¯ll be inviting her to prepare the banquet, giving a bit of sheep¡¯s milk and pork doesn¡¯t count for much to us.¡±


    Tong Sang¡¯s handsome face didn¡¯t show any anger; he calmly exined.


    While he was not angry, Tong Tiehu was, his originally mild expression instantly turning severe. He reprimanded, ¡°Are you that desperate for your sheep¡¯s milk? If you¡¯re thirsty, tell Erhu to go milk it.¡±


    ¡°Stop spewing nonsense.. One month from now, you will also participate in the wheat harvest, and I don¡¯t want to see you cking off for even a single day!¡±

 Chapter 129 - 129: Running Away from Home

    Chapter 129: Running Away from Home


    Trantor: 549690339


    Tong Family reared two goats, so they could milk them anytime they wanted.


    The goat milk today was specially hand-milked by Tong Sang. He had added almonds to it to neutralize the smell. After cooking a small pot, the remaining milk was left unattended since it was not finished at noon.


    Now Zhu Hongyun was giving Tong Sang a stern look because of this trivial matter. Tong Tiehu naturally got angry. What petty family squabbles!


    Upon hearing this, Zhu Hongyun immediately felt wronged, ¡°I¡¯m doing this for Sang¡¯s sake. He¡¯s young, and 1 fear he might be seduced by unscrupulous women.¡±


    ¡°Who he takes a liking to is none of your concern. He¡¯s grown up, and he can¡¯t even handle a bit of goat¡¯s milk?¡± Tong Tiehu snorted heavily, very dissatisfied with Zhu Hongyun¡¯s previous questioning.


    Tong Eng noticing his wife being reprimanded again, couldn¡¯t help but defend her, ¡°She¡¯s just being frugal. Even though our family is better off than others, it doesn¡¯t mean we can just give stuff away¡±


    ¡°Shut up! So now you know the value of things. What about earlier when you would just throw away food that you didn¡¯t want to eat?!¡± Tong Tiehu red at him, ¡°And you will join in the wheat harvest, if I catch you cking off, I¡¯ll break your legs.¡±


    Tong Eng was starting to feel heated from these words, ¡°Grandfather, why do you prioritize a girl of bad repute over Xiaoyun and 1?¡±


    Is this even necessary?


    For a lowly girl who had nothing to do with them, wasn¡¯t the punishment they had to endure over the past few days enough?


    Who exactly has the Tong family name?


    As for Tong Sang, he usually shows little interest in girls, but he now makes an exception for Qiao Xiaomai. If this isn¡¯t because of some interest in Qiao Xiaomai, then what is it?


    What his wife said wasn¡¯t wrong. What was grandfather yelling about?


    ¡°What nonsense!¡± Tong Tiehu was truly enraged, about to curse loudly, but Tong Sang hurriedly stopped him, ¡°Grandpa, don¡¯t get mad, let¡¯s talk slowly.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t need you to y the peacekeeper,¡± snapped Tong Eng. He swiftly approached the kitchen door, grabbed Zhu Hongyun¡¯s arm and turned toward the courtyard gate, ¡°Since this family doesn¡¯t appreciate us, we¡¯ll go to the town to find our parents.¡±


    Tong Family¡¯s parents lived at the vinegar shop in the town with Tong Dng. Tong Eng had been feeling suffocated these few days. Seeing Tong Tiehu and Tong Sang talking in unison, he couldn¡¯t stand it anymore and decided to go to the town to seek justice from his parents overnight.


    Zhu Hongyun had this thought for a while but dared not voice it. When Tong Eng finally came around to this idea, she silently rejoiced and followed quietly behind him.


    ¡°Brother and sister-inw, wait a moment.¡± Tong Sang was taken aback by his actions. He hurriedly tried to stop them.


    ¡°Don¡¯t go!¡± Tong Tiehu stopped him with cold sternness, ¡°If they want to leave, let them. Humph, ingrates!¡±


    It was simply goat milk, didn¡¯t his grandson have the right to deal with it?


    He had clearly warned them earlier not to make up nonsense about Qiao Xiaomai or even mention her and Tong Sang together. Yet, Zhu Hongyun was spreading rumors out of nowhere.


    Having done wrong, they dared y the runaway game. Tong Tiehu¡¯s face darkened, ¡°What has a good child turned into? I knew this would happen, he should have never married Eng¡¯s wife!¡±


    Although Tong Eng had beenzy earlier, he still had a decent nature.


    But ever since he started being with Zhu Hongyun, whenever he made a mistake, instead of reflecting on it, he started shing with him, ¡°While he hasn¡¯tpletely deviated, 1 must set him straight this time!¡±


    Tong Sang frowned, ¡°Grandpa, you¡¯re being too harsh.¡±


    Tong Eng was stubborn, so exining gently was the way forward, not harsh scolding..

 Chapter 130 - 130: The Tong Family Has a Big Secret

    Chapter 130: The Tong Family Has a Big Secret


    Trantor: 549690339


    Tong Tiehu nced at him, snorted, ¡°He¡¯s all grown up, and I still have to coddle him? Go read your books, stay out of these trivial matters.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll go and bring back my second brother,¡± suggested Tong Sang, wanting to head towards the door.


    ¡°Your parents will definitely bring him back tomorrow, you don¡¯t need to worry,¡± Tong Tiehu rxed his tone, ¡°If you don¡¯t want to study, then go prepare that bean sprout dish, taste Xiaomai¡¯s new recipe.¡±


    ¡°Also, when you go to the Qiao¡¯s tomorrow, mention that we would like Xiaomai to cater for the banquet next month.¡±


    The matter was set with Qiao Xiaomai, but informing her through Qiao Dami seemed too informal, Tong Sang was required to personally ry the message.


    Tong Sang paused in his step, ¡°Alright.¡±


    Madam Qian, who had been silent all along, couldn¡¯t help but voice her thoughts, ¡°You really want that girl to cook? She¡¯s never been in charge of a kitchen.¡± There¡¯s also her mother who has a bad reputation, this is a joyous asion for a sixtieth birthday, why spoil the mood with bad influences?


    ¡°The food she cooks tastes good. Her mother used to be in charge, but she has always been assisting, she should be familiar with everything required, so it¡¯s settled,¡± Tong Tiehu waved hisrge hand dismissively, pointing to Madam Qian, ¡°You go rest, Sang will take care of dinner.¡±


    This unpredictable factor of Qiao Xiaomai, who knows what she will bring, it¡¯s best to get closer to her.


    Madam Qian, used to Tong Tiehu¡¯s unteral decisions, grumbled a bit and went to rest.


    Only Tong Tiehu and Tong Sang were left in the courtyard.


    Tong Tiehu headed towards the kitchen, ¡°I¡¯ll start the fire.¡±


    Tong Sang followed, ¡°What would you like to eat, Grandpa?¡±


    ¡°That bean sprout dish; 1 want to taste this new recipe.¡±


    ¡°Dami said that she sells these bean sprouts for a penny per jin.¡±


    Tong Sang washed his hands and started cleaning the bean sprouts.


    Tong Tiehu took a seat by the stove, stuffed some stalks into the stove, lit a me, and said, ¡°The recipe for this bean sprout dish is likely simple.¡±


    ¡°I believe she has other ways to make money.¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s no rush, we just need to keep an eye on her since she¡¯s residing in our Anping Vige.¡±


    Tong Sang was quiet for a moment, ¡°I think she¡­ means no harm, right?¡±


    ¡°We can¡¯t lower our guard, especially on our territory, we cannot afford any mistakes.¡±


    ¡°She has that strange divine power, if she did something behind closed doors, we wouldn¡¯t have a clue.¡±


    Tong Tiehu fell silent this time, and after a while, he sighed, ¡°If only we knew this earlier, we would have allocated that piece ofnd to someone else.¡±


    ¡°Should we consider relocating in secrecy?¡± Tong Sang suggested.


    ¡°Where to? Forget about it, we shouldn¡¯t startle the snake in the grass.¡± Tong Tiehu shook his head.


    Tong Sang fell silent again.


    ¡°Dami and Qiao Changshun are trustworthy, try to get to know them better,¡± suggested Tong Tiehu.


    Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s ability and background were unknown, and what could happen was even more uncertain.


    Apart from being vignt, he really had no better solution.


    ¡°Alright,¡± Tong Sang replied.


    The topic concluded, and Tong Sang started to talk about other things, with Tong Tiehu asionally responding.


    The next day, after breakfast, Tong Sang went to Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s house.


    Knocking on the door, it was promptly opened.


    ¡°Oh, it¡¯s Brother Tong,e in!¡±


    Qiao Dami opened the door and, upon seeing Tong Sang, excitedly took his hand and led him into the courtyard, ¡°Brother Tong, we are just having a meal, you shoulde and taste the food my sister cooked; it¡¯s delicious!¡±


    Tong Sang curved his lips into a smile, ¡°Alright.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai stood at the kitchen door, looking at the handsome young man before her, forcing a smile onto her face, ¡°Brother Sang is here.¡±


    ¡°Yes, my grandfather is celebrating his sixtieth birthday banquet next month, and he would like to invite you to cook. 1 am here today to discuss the menu with you,¡± Tong Sang stated his intentions sinctly.


    Justing to notify her wouldn¡¯t allow him to get closer.


    Under the guise of discussing the menu, he could justify staying longer..

 Chapter 131 - 131: Enthusiasm

    Chapter 131: Enthusiasm


    Trantor: 549690339


    ¡°Come in,e in.¡± Before Qiao Xiaomai could respond to Tong Sang¡¯s words, Qiao Changshun hurriedly spoke up to wee Tong Sang in.


    ¡°Sang, have you eaten yet? Sit down and join us for a meal.¡± Qiao Changshun was very enthusiastic, this man was his prospective son-inw after all. He should take the opportunity to get closer whenever he could!


    ¡°I¡¯ve eaten already.¡± Tong Sang responded with a shallow smile, his tone was gentle.


    ¡°You can still try some food even if you¡¯ve eaten. Try this dish of Bean Sprouts.¡± Without a second thought, Qiao Changshun took a few steps, grabbed Tong Sang¡¯s arm, and practically dragged him to the kitchen.


    ¡°Xiaomai, quickly get a pair of chopsticks for Sang.¡± Qiao Changshun said, as he energetically pointed to the food on the dining table, ¡°This is Milk Steamed Bun, made with the sheep¡¯s milk that you brought yesterday. It is fragrant and soft. Have a taste.¡±


    Tong Sang, hearing these words, nced at the buns in the basket. The faint aroma of milk that wafted out was quite pleasant.


    Qiao Dami sat next to Tong Sang, pointing to the te of Bean Sprouts Stir-fried with Pork on the table and said, ¡°Brother Tong, try this. It¡¯s made with the pork you brought yesterday. My sister cooked it so deliciously!¡±


    ¡°And this one, Brother Tong, have you ever had tofu pudding? We only gave you tofust time and forgot about the tofu pudding. Oh, my sister just made this one. Have a taste!¡±


    ¡°And this one, too, this is dried beancurd sticks. My sister spent several days to make this small amount, but it¡¯s definitely tasty. Have a taste!¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai¡±¡­¡±


    She twitched the corner of her mouth, wanting to roll her eyes. Weren¡¯t this father and son being a bit too enthusiastic about Tong Sang?


    Especially Qiao Dami, he¡¯d been wearing these for quite some time now, and it was the first time she¡¯d heard him talk so much.


    ¡°Xiaomai, why are you just standing there? Quickly get a pair of chopsticks for Sang.¡± Seeing Qiao Xiaomai standing still, Qiao Changshun urged her.


    Qiao Xiaomai responded with a sound and slowly fetched a pair of chopsticks to hand to Tong Sang.


    Tong Sang epted them with a smile, ¡°Thank you, Miss Qiao.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai raised her eyebrow secretly, she thought Tong Sang would refuse.


    ¡°Xiaomai, get a bowl for Sang.¡± Qiao Changshun instructed again, he pushed the basket filled with Milk Steamed Buns toward Tong Sang, intending to serve him some tofu pudding.


    Qiao Xiaomai responded with another sound and took her time fetching a clean coarse porcin bowl to pass to Tong Sang.


    Tong Sang gave her another grin, this one more radiant than before.


    His dark pupils were glittering, his perfect facial features were quite charming.


    However, Qiao Xiaomai did not focus on his smile, she lowered her gaze and sat down next to Qiao Dami.


    ¡°You girl, why didn¡¯t you simply serve Sang some tofu pudding yourself.¡± Qiao Changshun shot her a nce, took the bowl from Tong Sang¡¯s hand, and served him a full bowl of tofu pudding, ¡°Have a taste. This is tofu pudding with cane sugar and soybean paste. Try this with that.¡±


    Tong Sang thanked him, showed no modesty at all, lifted a spoonful of sugar into the bowl, stirred it to dissolve the sugar, then started eating.


    ¡°How is it? Tastes good, right?¡± Qiao Changshun asked with a smile.


    ¡°Yes, it¡¯s very good.¡± Tong Sangplimented.


    ¡°Of course, my Xiaomai¡¯s cooking is the best. Let me tell you¡­¡± Qiao Changshun started bragging about the meals they¡¯d been having at home recently, his tone full of pride.


    He had to highlight the advantages of Qiao Xiaomai!


    Tong Sang slightly tugged at the corner of his mouth, he enjoyed such homely conversations..

 Chapter 132 - 132: Testing

    Chapter 132: Testing


    Trantor: 549690339


    Qiao Xiaomai listened to Qiao Changshun¡¯s praises of her cooking skills without expression, stuffing Milk Steamed Bun into her mouth and staying silent till the end of breakfast, without uttering a single word.


    Tong Sang, who had finished his breakfast, had quietly eaten two bowls of tofu pudding amidst Qiao Changshun¡¯s ceaseless prattling.


    He also tried a few bites of tofu skin, a look of surprise shing across his deep dark eyes.


    He had mentionedst night that Qiao Xiaomai must have other ways of making money. He just hadn¡¯t expected to witness it this very morning.


    After Qiao Changshun finished speaking, he swept his gaze over her pretty face, his lips curling into a small smile, ¡°Knowing Miss Qiao¡¯s culinary skills, I¡¯ve decided to let her take care of our grandfather¡¯s sixtieth birthday celebration.¡±


    ¡°Rest assured, the dishes she makes will definitely satisfy everyone.¡± Changshun patted his chest in guarantee.


    ¡°Let¡¯s discuss the dishester.¡±


    ¡°Alright, let Dami clean up the pots, you two should go out and make your ns.¡±


    Tong Sang turned towards Qiao Xiaomai, ¡°Miss Qiao, shall we go out and have a chat?¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai nodded and stood up, leaving the kitchen.


    There was a willow tree in the Qiao Family¡¯s courtyard which was already sprouting green leaves. Under the swaying shadow of the willow tree, Qiao Xiaomai and Tong Sang sat with a small wooden table beside them.


    Tong Sang pulled out a sheet of paper from his chest with a finger length charcoal stick, ¡°Miss Qiao, this is the menu I¡¯ve nned.¡±


    ¡°I can¡¯t read.¡± Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s eyes swept across the paper once and shook her head.


    ¡°How did you memorize all the different dishes before?¡± Tong Sang asked.


    ¡°I remember them in my head.¡± Qiao Xiaomai pointed to her head casually.


    Tong Sang chuckled, ¡°Should I read it out for you?¡±


    ¡°Sure.¡± Qiao Xiaomai nodded.


    ¡°Since it¡¯s a sixtieth birthday celebration, my grandfather and I decided on six cold dishes, six hot dishes, and six desserts or soups to make a total of eighteen dishes,¡± Tong Sang started. His dulcet, maic voice detailed each dish patiently.


    ¡°The first cold dish is the Cold Mixed Cucumber.¡± Tong Sang pointed to the words ¡®Cold Mixed Cucumber¡¯ with his charcoal stick.


    Qiao Xiaomai responded affirmatively, her gaze alsonding on the paper.


    Her illiteracy was a pretense. Tong Sang wouldn¡¯t leave this menu behind, so she needed to take a longer look tomit it to memory.


    However, as a literate person, she had already skimmed through the entire menu by the time Tong Sang¡¯s charcoal was still pointing to the Cold Mixed Cucumber.


    All eighteen dishes were something she knew how to cook.


    Relieved, Xiaomai returned her gaze to the Cold Mixed Cucumber.


    ¡°The second dish is the Cold Mixed Radish Strips. The radishes were ntedst year, but we still have some stored in our cer, which should be enough for the banquet,¡± Tong Sang continued.


    Qiao Xiaomai nodded.


    ¡°Oh, right, the radishes need to be stir fried with Pork Belly,¡± Tong Sang added.


    Qiao Xiaomai simply responded, and her gaze involuntarily moved downward, sweeping over the Radish with Pork Belly in hot dishes, and Radish with Stewed Ribs in the soup category. She then quickly scanned through the remaining soups on the menu.


    Tong Sang noticed her small movement.


    She does know how to read after all.


    Considering that she could conjure up such a beautiful knife and unearthed unheard of nts, it made sense that a person with such magical abilities would indeed know how to read.


    Now that his suspicions were confirmed, Tong Sang didn¡¯t bother to test her further. However, in order to extend their interaction, he patiently read out all the dishes on the menu.


    After he finished, he concluded, ¡°Of course, this is just what I¡¯ve prepared. We¡¯ll be ughtering three pigs for the celebration. If you have any signature dishes in mind, feel free to make them..¡±

 Chapter 133 - 133: The Man Skilled in Creating Opportunities

    Chapter 133: The Man Skilled in Creating Opportunities


    Trantor: 549690339


    Tong Sang came this time, partly to probe into getting closer to Qiao Xiaomai, and partly because he genuinely wanted to prepare Tong Tiehu¡¯s birthday banquet well.


    There had been a change in Qiao Xiaomai, and recently she has been constantlying up with new dishes, he believed she had even more novel ideas.


    Qiao Xiaomai was unaware that Tong Sang had just probed her, and upon hearing this, she was slightly moved.


    Three pigs¡­


    Images of delicacies like pork blood, pork trotters, pork liver, pork heart, pork lungs, pig tail, and pig head meat quickly shed through her mind.


    Compared to lean and fat meat, she preferred these pork offal.


    Zhuang Luhe and the original host would prepare the pork dishes, but their methods were quite simple, they would stew everything together with various seasonings, then add Zhuang Luhe¡¯s special sauce, so the taste was quite good.


    Jiang Zhuangzhuang fell in love with the original host because of this.


    But in Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s eyes, this method was too crude.


    Also, with the pork shoulder, pork chops, pork spine, pork tenderloin and all, Zhuang Luhe and the original host would either stir-fry, stew, or steam them. Their taste was delicious inparison to an average person, but in Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s current perspective, it¡¯s a bit crude too.


    The key point is, there¡¯s no Braised Pork here.


    Braised Pork, also called Braised Pork Belly, such a dish, is nowhere to be found here!


    Thinking of the deliciousness of the Braised Pork, saliva unconsciously appeared in Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s mouth, who had just had breakfast.


    She had cooked it once before, it¡¯s been several days now, and she was craving it again.


    Aside from that, all sorts of meat dishes like Preserved Vegetable Braised Pork, crispy pork roast, Steamed Pork with Rice Flour, etc. also flew past quickly in her mind. So much meat!


    Qiao Xiaomai got excited, three pigs, for her to y with!


    As a foodie, and a foodie that loves to personally make all kinds of delicacies, this was truly a pleasing thing!


    ¡°Miss Qiao?¡± Seeing that she did not respond, and that her long eyshes kept trembling, and her shiny ck eyes kept moving around, Tong Sang couldn¡¯t help but speak.


    ¡°Ah?¡± Hearing the call, Qiao Xiaomai snapped back from pig heaven. She looked up at Tong Sang, regret shing in her peach blossom eyes.


    She was actually daydreaming!


    ¡°I¡¯m asking, if you have any dishes you want to prepare, let me know.¡± Tong Sang repeated.


    Coughing lightly twice, Qiao Xiaomai struck a serious and solemn pose, ¡°Um¡­I have a lot.¡±


    ¡°What are they all?¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai began to count on her fingers, ¡°Pork Belly, I want to try a new pattern, and also those pig offal, I also want to change the pattern.¡±


    ¡°If you¡¯re not confident in me, I can go buy some pig offal first, and let you and Grandpa Tong taste it after I¡¯ve cooked it.¡± Afraid that Tong Sang wouldn¡¯t believe her, Qiao Xiaomai added.


    Tong Sang chuckled lightly and said, ¡°I trust your cooking skills, but this matter concerns my grandfather¡¯s reputation, um¡­you can go ahead and prepare some for me to taste first, what do you need?¡±


    After saying this, without waiting for Qiao Xiaomai to speak, he continued, ¡°Are you busyter? If not, let¡¯s go to town together, you can pick out the items, and I¡¯ll pay for them, how about it?¡±


    See, by using this excuse, he could extend their time together.


    Upon hearing this, Qiao Xiaomai hesitated. She nned to go with Qiao Changshun to check the wheat fields today. Jiji Residence had given her the wheat fields and the slope, but she hadn¡¯t gone to see them yet.


    Qiao Changshun was sitting in the shed making the wooden boxes needed for sprouting beans, all the while eavesdropping on Tong Sang and Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s conversation. Seeing Qiao Xiaomai not speaking now, he hurriedly said, ¡°She¡¯s not busy, she¡¯s not busy at all. Xiaomai, a young girl, doesn¡¯t have much to do. You guys go to town.¡±


    Such a good opportunity to be alone, he definitely couldn¡¯t refuse..

 Chapter 134 - 134 Let’s Go to the Town Together

    Chapter 134: Let¡¯s Go to the Town Together


    Trantor: 549690339


    However, fearing that Qiao Xiaomai would discern something, and aware that it wouldn¡¯t be proper for a single man and woman, he continued, ¡°Take Dami with you too. Conveniently, he mentioned he wanted to eat fish. Bring back two fish.¡±


    Qiao Dami had just finished cleaning the kitchen. Hearing this, his small head bobbed as if pecking like a chicken, ¡°Sis, sis, get two more fishes! Brother Tong has never tasted spicy boiled fish; let him have a taste!¡±


    The wonderful taste of spicy boiled fish, he wouldn¡¯t tire of it, even if he ate it daily!


    ¡°Eh¡­ didn¡¯t we agree to go check the wheat fields? If we are to buy fish, we can let Brother Tong bring them back.¡± Qiao Xiaomai was unwilling to go.


    To be honest, she really didn¡¯t will to interact with Tong Ting a lot.


    She had agreed to cater for the birthday banquet because Tong Tiehu had helped her out many times. Furthermore, she wanted to express herself. These three pigs, she¡¯d regret if she missed this opportunity.


    But preparing the banquet was one thing, going shopping with Tong Ting was another.


    Without her, couldn¡¯t Tong Ting still buy the pork offal?


    ¡°We can go tomorrow, it¡¯s not urgent. Ting is a youngd, he doesn¡¯t understand kitchen matters. It will be better if you go and explore with him. The items are for your use after all, it¡¯s best if you go along.¡± Qiao Changsun persuaded.


    ¡°Yeah, yeah, sis, let¡¯s go to the town with Brother Tong!¡± Qiao Dami ran over, grabbing Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s hand and acting coy. The siblings were going shopping with their favorite brother Tong, how exciting!


    ¡°Miss Qiao, let¡¯s go together. 1 don¡¯t have much experience in buying food.¡± Tong Ting chimed in a word of persuasion.


    Although he could cook, he didn¡¯t know how to buy vegetables and meat.


    ¡°Sis, let¡¯s go!¡± Seeing Qiao Xiaomai still silent, Qiao Dami embraced her, practically clinging to her, his tone almost pleading.


    Qiao Xiaomai looked at his eager little face, thought for a moment, and nodded, ¡°Alright.¡±


    She could visit the wheat fields tomorrow.


    ¡°Oh! Sis is the best!¡± Qiao Dami was overjoyed. His face lit up with a big smile. He unclung himself from Qiao Xiaomai and went trotting into the hall. Soon, he came back out holding a small cloth bag.


    Qiao Xiaomai had sewn him a simple bag. It had twopartments ¨C one for the melon seeds and snacks, and the other for copper coins ¨C which thrilled him to no end.


    He wanted to go to town this time to experience the feeling of shopping with his bag.


    Seeing how excited Qiao Dami was, Qiao Xiaomai also went back to her room and fetched a bag.


    ¡°Should 1 go back home now and fetch the oxcart?¡± Tong Ting asked upon seeing this.


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°Xiaomai, you and Dami go with him, so he doesn¡¯t have to make the round trip.¡± Qiao Changsun started, ¡°Carry the basket on your back. Buy two fish and two pieces of cloth.¡±


    Last time he asked Qiao Xiaomai to buy cloth to make clothes, but she didn¡¯t buy any.


    She now had a good chance with Tong Ting apanying her. She could ask for his suggestions.


    ¡°We¡¯ll see.¡± Qiao Xiaomai shouldered the basket. She wasn¡¯t very interested in buying cloth, particrly when there was a handsome young man by her side.


    ¡°Well then, buy as you see fit.¡± Upon seeing this, Qiao Changsun didn¡¯t push her. As long as they were going to the town together, that was enough.


    There was no hurry for this, they could take their time.


    Thus, Qiao Xiaomai and Qiao Dami followed Tong Ting to the Tong¡¯s house. After Tong Ting and Tong Tiehu exchanged greetings, he lead out the oxcart, and the two elder ones and the youngster made their way to the town, together.


    On the way, Tong Ting initiated the conversation, ¡°Miss Qiao, can we make tofu and bean curd for the banquet? And that dried tofu too.¡±


    ¡°I think so, let me ask the shopkeepers of both families.¡± Qiao Xiaomai replied.


    Her agreement with the Zuixian Building and Extremely Delicious Foods was that she couldn¡¯t make money through tofu and bean curd. But if she was preparing for a vige banquet, it should not be considered a vition of the agreement.


    Listening to their conversation, Qiao Dami munched on seeds and said, ¡°Brother Tong, you also think bean curd is delicious, right? Sis¡¯s dishes are all delicious- It¡¯s a pity you don¡¯t live at our ce, otherwise, you could eat them every day.¡±


    Brother Tong is so good, how wonderful it would be if he could live at their house..

 Chapter 135 - 135 Little Angel Dami

    Chapter 135: Little Angel Dami


    Trantor: 549690339


    What a pity you don¡¯t live in my house?


    Upon hearing Qiao Dami¡¯s words, Qiao Xiaomai pinched his little cheek with an expressionless face, saying: ¡°Just focus on eating your sunflower seeds.¡±


    ¡°Oh!¡± replied Qiao Dami, resuming his eating, but that didn¡¯t stop him from talking. ¡°Sis, now we have so many fields, let¡¯s grow some sunflower seeds too!¡±


    Before Qiao Xiaomai could answer, he turned his little face to look at the broad back of Tong Sang. ¡°Brother Tong, you probably don¡¯t know yet? My sister sold the recipe for tofu and bean curd and traded it for lots of farnd. From now on, we can have white flour every day!¡±


    Eating white bread and noodles and cakes every day, how lovely!


    Upon hearing his words, without looking back, and with no surprise crossing his handsome face, Tong Sang simply replied with a ¡°That¡¯s nice.¡±


    ¡°Isn¡¯t it? Now, we have lots ofnd at home. Sis, let¡¯s grow some sunflower seeds. They¡¯re salty, but can you make them sweet?¡± Qiao Dami, being young, didn¡¯t speak with a clear train of thought. He babbled on and quickly turned the conversation to goat milk.


    ¡°Sis, the milk buns were really delicious this morning, can you make them again?¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai twitched the corner of her mouth and forced out a less than brilliant smile. After being here for so long and having the former owner¡¯s memories of more than ten years, she hadn¡¯t realized that the little fellow in front of her was a chatterbox.


    ¡°Sunflower seeds can be sweetened. We can check if there are seeds for sale in townter.¡± Sunflower seeds had just been introduced to Daqi in recent years; she was unsure if they were avable in Bailu town.


    She hadn¡¯t decided what to nt on those three terraces yet. If she could nt arge field of sunflowers, that would be nice.


    ¡°What about the milk buns?¡± Qiao Dami asked, lifting his small face.


    ¡°We can¡¯t buy goat milk.¡± There certainly wouldn¡¯t be a ce selling only cow milk or goat milk in town. If you wanted to drink it, you had to raise cows or goats yourself.


    ¡°If Dami wants to drink it, you can take some from my house.¡± Tong Sang spoke up.


    ¡°No need.¡± Qiao Xiaomai quickly refused.


    ¡°It¡¯s not for free, you can exchange something for it, like bean sprouts or something.¡±


    ¡°Alright, alright!¡± Qiao Dami agreed first before Qiao Xiaomai could reply; he enjoyed visiting the Tong family and wanted them to try his family¡¯s food. ¡°Brother Tong, your idea is great!¡±


    Tong Sang chuckled but remained silent.


    Qiao Xiaomai¡±¡­¡±


    She covertly rolled her eyes, ¡°1 might as well get a sheep.¡±


    ¡°I know where to buy cows and sheep. Miss Qiao, if you¡¯re interested 1 can take you there.¡± Tong Sang replied casually, hearing her speak this way.


    ¡°Just tell me the ce and next time I¡¯ll go with my father. Today we¡¯ll only buy pork tripe.¡±


    ¡°That works.¡± Tong Sang shared the location.


    Qiao Xiaomai made a note of it and earnestly expressed her gratitude.


    ¡°Wow, sis, are we going to buy cows and sheep for our house?¡± Qiao Dami asked, hisrge eyes gleaming.


    ¡°Of course.¡± Xiaomai nodded.


    Now, her family was the wealthiest in Anping Vige. As a smallndlord who owned over three hundred acres of farnd, she definitely needed more than the current donkey to match herndowner status.


    Besides, when the wheat is ready for harvest, there would definitely be a need for a bull.


    Qiao Dami was eager to imagine good days ahead with a house that was stocked with cows, donkeys, and fields. The smile on his little face grew wider.


    ¡°By the way, sis, can we buy some grass paper when we go to townter?¡± He suddenly remembered. This morning while he was using the toilet, he found that there were only a few pieces of grass paper left, which was uneptable.


    After using grass paper, no one would want to use a toiletry stick again..

 Chapter 136 - 136: She’s Not a Troublemaker

    Chapter 136: She¡¯s Not a Troublemaker


    Trantor: 549690339


    ¡°Okay,¡± Xiaomai responded.


    ¡°What do you need grass paper for?¡± Tong Sang inquired.


    Could it be for writing?


    ¡°Of course, it¡¯s for wiping butts!¡± Dami answered as if it was a matter of course, then he eagerly asked, ¡°Brother Tong, when your family goes to the toilet¡­¡±


    ¡°You can focus on eating your seeds,¡± Xiaomai raised her hand, covering his small mouth to make him swallow back the words he was about to say.


    Discussing such matters while basking in the sunlight and surrounded by the grass is really a mood killer!


    Tong Sang was silent.


    He was a bit surprised.


    It seems as if she¡¯s changed her ways, even using grass paper now.


    Although grass paper is rough, it¡¯s not something ordinary families would typically use.


    Dami obviously didn¡¯t understand Xiaomai¡¯s thoughts. Xiaomai told him to eat seeds, and he obediently did so, but couldn¡¯t help speaking again, ¡°Sister, didn¡¯t you buy a copy of ¡®Daqi Law¡¯st time? Howe you haven¡¯t taken it out to read?¡±


    Speaking of grass paper, he inevitably thought of this. That was his first time entering a bookstore.


    ¡°¡­ Because sister doesn¡¯t know how to read.¡± Xiaomai responded.


    She lifted her hand and pinched Dami¡¯s cheek. This little brat, always speaking without filter!


    All of her deepest secrets were let out in a few short sentences, even seeds couldn¡¯t stop his mouth!


    ¡°You bought ¡®Daqi Law¡¯?¡± Tong Sang turned around, his handsome face and tone filled with surprise.


    ¡°Since Elder Tong mentioned ¡®Daqi Law¡¯ several times, I bought a copy to bring back. I worship it every day, using it as a talisman to protect our home.¡± Xiaomai quickly provided an exnation.


    Tong Sang responded with an ¡°Oh,¡± and looked ahead again.


    However, his response sounded a bit profound in Xiaomai¡¯s ears.


    Xiaomai blinked, regretting agreeing to go to town together.


    Dami was being too talkative!


    ¡°Sister, you¡­¡±


    Just as Dami was about to say something, Xiaomai quickly interrupted him with a smile, ¡°Dami, let me tell you about what Elder Tong will do at the birthday banquet, okay?¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡± Dami¡¯s attention was diverted.


    Thus, Xiaomai started reciting the menu for the banquet ¡ª everything she wanted to eat, a whole pig feast!


    Dami was so engrossed he forgot his fleeting thoughts, and even Tong Sang was captivated.


    However, he did not entirely lose focus and continued to observe Xiaomai.


    The happiness in Xiaomai¡¯s tone did not escape him. Someone who found joy in food would not likely stir up trouble¡­


    However, this could also be an act put on by Xiaomai,


    He should continue observing her cognitive.


    They soon reached the town. Tong Sang, being considerate, drove them straight to the bookstore, saying, ¡°Let¡¯s buy the grass paper first.¡±


    Xiaomai jumped down from the ox cart and let Dami stay on it, while she ran into the bookstore, quickly buying a stack of grass paper before returning.


    Next, Tong Sang drove them to a pastry shop.


    Xiaomai bought some sunflower seeds and some sugar cane.


    Having bought these items, Tong Sang then drove the ox cart to the butcher shop.


    The butcher stall was still busy with the morning markets, so Xiaomai and Dami stayed on the cart while Tong Sang went to buy the meat that Xiaomai had asked for.


    Of course, he only bought part of it.


    On one hand, buying too much would be wasteful, and on the other hand, if Xiaomai cooked everything at once, there would be no reason for them to meet again.


    Before they left, he also bought two fish, and the three of them began their journey back home..

 Chapter 137 - 137 - Fragrance!!!

    Chapter 137: ¨C Fragrance!!!


    Trantor: 549690339


    Even though the ingredients were bought to cook for the Tong Family, the preparation was to take ce at Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s home.


    Tong Sang, driving his ox cart, came directly to the front of Qiao Family¡¯s small courtyard.


    He had bought four pork hocks, eight pig¡¯s feet, a pair of pork intestines, a few pig¡¯s ears, and ten jin of pork belly. He ced these items beside the well and looked at Qiao Xiaomai with a slight smile on his handsome face. ¡°Miss Qiao, it¡¯s your turn to show off your skills.¡±


    ¡°No problem.¡± Qiao Xiaomai looked at these items, licked her lips, and said, ¡°Brother Tong San, you can go back first. Xiaomai and Dami will deliver it to you once its ready.¡±


    ¡°Yah, sister, if we cook all these, we won¡¯t have enough firewood, right? Why don¡¯t Tong Brother and I go up the mountain to collect firewood?¡± Qiao Dami put her bag back in the room, then went out happily, heading straight for Tong Sang.


    On hearing this, Qiao Changshun kept nodding, ¡°Right, right, right, we need lots of firewood to cook all these. Let Sang and Dami go up the mountain to gather firewood.¡±


    ¡°Then I¡¯ll go with Dami to the mountain.¡± Tong Sang had no objection.


    ¡°Okay!¡± Qiao Dami happily took a hemp rope, then cheerfully dragged Tong Sang out the door.


    Qiao Xiaomai¡±¡­¡±


    ¡°Xiaomai,e, I¡¯ll be your assistant. Get started.¡± Qiao Changshun spoke. He had finished making all the necessary open wooden boxes for sprouting beans, so he was free.


    Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s eyes swept over the meat, and then she put Tong Sang out of her mind and started to work.


    She was reluctant to interact with Tong Sang for several reasons: firstly, she felt embarrassed; secondly, she was afraid of gossip; thirdly, the Tong Family¡¯s assistance seemed a bit inexplicable to her.


    But with Tong Tiehu¡¯s sixtieth birthday approaching, she had to interact with him even if she didn¡¯t want to.


    Never mind, looking at the current situation, she was still inferior to Tong Sang. If she, the vige woman, interacted with Tong Sang, the one who needed to worry was Tong Sang.


    She didn¡¯t want to think too much. Just let it be.


    First, she worked on the pork hocks, which took a long time to cook. She nned to make soy-braised pork hocks.


    Cleaning the hair off the hocks, nch the hocks in a pan of boiling water, then set them aside.


    Add more water to the pan, put in condiments such as scallions, ginger, Sichuan peppercorns, star anise, and then all the four pork hocks. After that, start boiling over high heat.


    As Qiao Changshun was looking after the fire, Qiao Xiaomai put the pork hocks aside and began to make pig¡¯s feet soup with soybeans.


    She had made this soup several times; given the Qiao family¡¯s current living standards, even if they had it ten or eight times in a row, they wouldn¡¯t get tired of it.


    With fires burning on both sides, Qiao Xiaomai even found time to clean the pot she used to boil soy milk before and began to prepare braised pork.


    The method of making braised pork is nearly the same everywhere. Qiao Xiaomai chose a simple method. She first washed the pork belly, cut it into small pieces, nched it in a pot, then set it aside and poured off the water. She then put oil in the pot, put in the pork belly, and started to stir-fry.


    When the pork turns a golden brown, add scallions, ginger, soy sauce, star anise, and other seasonings, stir fry until fragrant, then add water.


    Then simmer for one hour over a low heat.


    The soy braised pork hocks that Qiao Changshun was tending also began to simmer slowly. In addition to the pig¡¯s feet and soybean soup in the y pot, the two had to watch over three stoves. But Qiao Xiaomai was not flustered, she even found time to cleanse the pig¡¯s intestines with flour, preparing to stir-fry themter.


    By the time Tong Sang and Qiao Dami returned, the courtyard was already filled with a delicious aroma.


    Tong Sang carried arge bundle of firewood, and Qiao Dami had a small bundle symbolically on her back. As the two entered the courtyard, they instinctively took a deep breath.


    Delicious!


    The strong aromas of soy-braised pork hocks, pig¡¯s feet with soybean soup, and braised pork mixed together, prating the nostrils.


    Qiao Dami let out a ¡°Wow¡±, dropped the firewood on her back, and ran toward the kitchen.


    Tong Sang stood still on the spot.


    Being a well-traveled man has allowed him to taste the craft of the chef in the Imperial Kitchen, but he had never experienced this kind of dominant aroma before..

 Chapter 138 - 138: Gourmet Food Conquers His Stomach

    Chapter 138: Gourmet Food Conquers His Stomach


    Trantor: 549690339


    Yes, overbearing.


    lie wasn¡¯t a glutton whatsoever, but the smell that now filled his nostrils was enough to make his mouth water and his stomach growl longing for food. He couldn¡¯t help but want to imitate Qiao Dami, who was bustling around the three stoves.


    Only a smell this overpowering could provoke such an irresistible burst of appetite in him.


    This Qiao Xiaomai¡­


    He knew she was a good cook, but he hadn¡¯t expected her to be this exceptional.


    Earlier on his trek up the mountain with Qiao Dami, he had quietly gathered all the trivial details of Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s daily life.


    He thought he had achieved some preliminary understanding of her. However, looking back now, everything he had learned only scratched the surface.


    This woman, he was sure she would continue to surprise him in the future.


    ¡°Brother Tong, don¡¯t just stand there,e join us!¡± After bustling around the three stoves, Qiao Dami was so content she felt like floating away. Seeing Tong Sang just standing around, she hurriedly called him over.


    At her words, Tong Sang took a deep breath, stepped under the awning, and set down the firewood from his back.


    He looked at Qiao Xiaomai, his voice deep as he asked, ¡°Do you need my help?¡±


    ¡°Just sit down, you can rest.¡± Qiao Xiaomai decided she didn¡¯t need his assistance.


    The pig trotter soup was done, the braised pork just needed the addition of sugar for zing, and the sauce-braised pork knuckles were about to be ready. The busiest time had already passed.


    While thinking this, she scooped the braised pork out of the pot. She had used five taels of pork belly, filling an entire bowl. The aroma was captivating and the color irresistible.


    She took a clean bowl, scooped half of it with braised pork, and handed it to Tong Sang, ¡°Brother Tong, have a taste.¡±


    Tong Sang epted therge crude porcin bowl.


    The smell now seemed to drill into his nose more intensely. He nced at Qiao Dami, ¡°Dami,e join us.¡±


    Qiao Dami crisply agreed and grabbed a pair of chopsticks. She seated herself next to Tong Sang under the willow tree and took a piece of meat, blew on it half-heartedly, and then eagerly ced it into her mouth.


    It was fragrant and tender with a mild sweetness¡ªabsolutely not greasy.


    Qiao Dami closed her eyes in bliss, wishing she could swallow her tongue as well because of how delicious it was!


    Tong Sang was more restrained, his expression revealing no notable changes. Having swallowed the meat, his gaze involuntarily shifted toward Qiao Xiaomai.


    Qiao Xiaomai had entered the kitchen and was currently removing the pork knuckles from the pot.


    The pork knuckles were now a vivid red, and with a light press of her chopsticks, she could easily prate the skin and touch the bone within.


    She scooped out four pork knuckles into a bowl, cleaned the pot, and began to stir-fry pork intestines.


    Afterpleting that dish, she started stir-frying pig¡¯s ears.


    Although she preferred pig¡¯s ear sd, she didn¡¯t have enough time now and had to settle with a simple stir-fry.


    When the pig¡¯s ear was done, she had finished cooking everything Tong Sang had bought today.


    She filled a bowl with braised pork for Qiao Changshun and handed it to him to taste her culinary skills while she moved under the willow tree.


    ¡°Um¡­Brother Tong, everything¡¯s ready. You should take it home. Hurry before the food cools off, as it won¡¯t taste as good.¡±


    Tong Sang swallowed thest bite of braised pork, ¡°Alright.¡±


    Given the quantity of food he purchased, it was only fitting that he took some home.


    However, he insisted on leaving some for the three members of the Qiao family as a token of appreciation for their hard work.


    Furthermore, after witnessing Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s cooking skills, he, who had seen the grandeur of the world, felt inexplicably humble.


    He had always considered Qiao Xiaomai to be a vige girl. But looking around now, the real bumpkin might just be him¡­


    His so-called insights were utterly negligible in front of Qiao Xiaomai¡­.

 Chapter 139 - 139: What exactly is going on between you and her?

    Chapter 139: What exactly is going on between you and her?


    Trantor: 549690339


    With his admittedly naive thinking, Tong Sang put some dishes onto the ox cart and then drove the cart home.


    It was midday when he arrived home. His father, Tong Xingda, was sitting in the courtyard scolding Tong Eng. Tong Tiehu was sitting to one side with a stern face, while Qian Shi, his mother Zhang Shi, and Zhu Hongyun were cooking lunch in the kitchen.


    Upon seeing him return, Tong Xingda frowned, ¡°Didn¡¯t you go to the store in town?¡±


    ¡°No,¡± Tong Sang exined, ¡°I was in a hurry toe back and cook these dishes, so 1 didn¡¯t go to the store.¡±


    ¡°What dishes?¡± Tong Xingda asked, his face still somewhat unpleasant.


    He had heard about the incident from Tong Engst night. While he had strenuously reprimanded Tong Eng for defying Tong Tiehu, he also wanted to reprimand Tong Sang for getting close to Qiao Xiaomai.


    With a mother who had eloped with another man, a girl with such a poor reputation could be trampled upon by anyone. While he had noints about Vige Chief Tong Tiehu¡¯s upright attitude and non-discrimination, he would never agree if Tong Sang nned to marry her into their household.


    Recognizing his father¡¯s resistant attitude, Tong Sang didn¡¯t say much. He just picked up the y jars he had ced on the ox cart.


    Fearing that the food would cool down on the way, Qiao Xiaomai had specially put it in the y jars.


    There were more than a dozen y jars of various sizes in her house, just right for packing these dishes.


    ¡°Grandfather, Dad, try this craftsmanship,¡± he directly brought down the two y jars with pork knuckles and braised pork and ced them in front of Tong Tiehu and Tong Xingda.


    He turned around and brought down another two small jars, one containing pig¡¯s trotter soup and the other mixed pig intestines and ears,


    After getting a table, he put all the jars on the table, lifted the lids, and a rich aroma wafted out.


    Tong Tiehu immediately put on a friendly expression, ¡°Xiaomai¡¯s cooking skills have improved again.¡±


    Tong Xingda¡¯s face froze.


    He had seen the wider world too, but looking at the color of the meat and smelling its aroma, this was something he had never seen nor smelled before.


    He had originally thought Qiao Xiaomai was just a pretty vige girl, but now it seemed he had been mistaken.


    With just these cooking skills, she is well qualified to be the head chef at the Capital City¡¯s Premier Taste House.


    The previously impatient Tong Eng instinctively took deep breaths. The fragrance was somewhat intoxicating!


    ¡°I¡¯ll go to the kitchen to get chopsticks. Erbrother, bring a jug of wine.¡± Observing the expressions of the three people present, Tong Sang spoke indifferently.


    Hearing this, Tong Eng red at him, but still went inside to fetch the jug of wine.


    Tong Sang smiled and headed to the kitchen.


    In the kitchen, the three women were busy with the meals. Four dishes were already prepared on the stove. Tong Sang told them not to bother, the dishes he had brought back alone were enough for their family to eat.


    ¡°Saner, what¡¯s going on with you and Qiao Xiaomai?¡± Zhang Shi wiped her hands on her apron and asked with a frown.


    ¡°Mother, there¡¯s nothing between me and her. I¡¯ll exin in detail after we eat,¡± Tong Sang replied.


    He really had no interest in Qiao Xiaomai.


    Before discovering her secret, he saw her as a pitiful little girl,


    After discovering her secret, he was always worried that she would cause trouble and disrupt his ns. So he was always on guard against her and saw her as a danger.


    But today, his confidence was shaken. Based on these cooking skills alone, he could be sure that she had seen a bigger world than he had.


    There were also the superhuman strength and magical ability to conjure things out of thin air.


    This girl¡­


    If she really wanted to stir up trouble, he probably couldn¡¯t stop her..

 Chapter 140 - 140: Argument Erupts Again

    Chapter 140: Argument Erupts Again


    Trantor: 549690339


    Therefore, if asked how he truly feels about Qiao Xiaomai at present, his response would be one and only: to continue observing and monitoring her with a bit of curiosity.


    As for the secret affections that the Sun Family, Qiao Changfu, Zhu Hongyun and others might entertain, it really doesn¡¯t exist.


    Upon hearing this, Mrs. Zhang¡¯s furrowed brow didn¡¯t rx, though she didn¡¯t pursue the matter further and took the dishes out of the kitchen.


    As the family gathered around the dining table, everyone took a bite of the fragrant meat and immediately fell silent ¡ª Tong Eng, Zhu Hongyun, Tong Xingda, Mrs. Zhang, and Mrs. Qian.


    The Tong Family was never short on meat. They had it every meal. However,paring to what they ate before, the three women present all believed they weren¡¯t cooking, but were wasting food in the past.


    Tong Xingda and Tong Eng also thought they hadn¡¯t been eating, but have been consuming pig food instead.


    Tong Tiehu didn¡¯t care about the thoughts of these people. Eating meat and drinking wine joyfully, his eyes half-closed, his face devoid of any of the usual solemnity.


    ¡°Grandfather, isn¡¯t Miss Qiao¡¯s cooking quite good?¡± Tong Sang had a bowl of wine in front of him too, but he wasn¡¯t drinking it, just tasting the dishes prepared by Qiao Xiaomai.


    ¡°Good, it¡¯s very good. With her leading the kitchen, the banquet will definitely be lively.¡± Tong Tiehu showed a slight smile on his face, as if he could already see the scene on the day of the birthday banquet.


    Tong Xingda was silent for a moment, then turned to Tong Sang, ¡°1 heard from your second brother that the cold jelly noodles, tofu, and bean curd sold at the Jiwiju in the town were all concocted by Qiao Xiaomai?¡±


    ¡°Yes,¡± responded Tong Sang, ¡°She has already sold the recipes for tofu and bean curd to Zuixian Building and Jiwiju. She didn¡¯t ask for silver, but for farnd, now her family owns morends than ours.¡±


    The Tong Family had not separated, currently, it had fivend-serving men, Tong Tiehu, Tong Xingda, and Tong Da, Er, Sanng. Thend obtained by these five men together was one hundred and fifty acres, and with the added purchasednd, the total was almost two hundred acres, making them the family with the mostnd in Anping Vige.


    But now, because of the tofu and bean curd recipes, Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s family suddenly owned more farnd than theirs, bing the family with the most farnd in Anping Vige.


    The title of the richest, was snatched away.


    The people present started feeling uneasy.


    Tong Xingda said, ¡°She really knows how to make money.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Zhu Hongyun sneered, feeling a sour bubbling in her heart.


    As the daughter-inw of the Tong family, she originally thought Qiao Xiaomai was just a weed by the wayside. However, now Qiao Xiaomai had earned so much just by lifting her hand, the sparrow was about to fly onto the branch and press down all the maidendies and wives in the vige, this feeling was truly irritating.


    Mrs. Zhang¡¯s previously rxed brows furrowed again, ¡°We are not short on money.¡±


    Reputation is critical, obedience is critical, yet look at what Qiao Xiaomai has done: causing a ruckus at the academy in the town, attempting to disrupt Sun Junyan¡¯s studies, scheming to get Zhu Cuiying punished, nearly getting Sun¡¯s family and Qiao Meipan tied up to the County Town, and shamelessly trampling on Sun Junyan¡¯s pride in public.


    She never stands at a loss, and can¡¯t wait to cause an uproar at the slightest discontent.


    She could never dare to have such a daughter-inw.


    ¡°No shortage of money? Do you think our family has a lot of silver?¡± Tong Xingda nced at her.


    Mrs. Zhang retorted, ¡°At the very least, we won¡¯t worry about necessities.¡±


    Even if their three sons were to part ways in the future, their family base would still be stronger than the rest of the vige.


    Tong Xingda scoffed, ¡°A woman¡¯s thoughts.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Mrs. Zhang immediately felt discontent, ¡°What do you mean? Just because of these goods, you want her to marry Sang?¡±


    ¡°These goods?¡± Tong Xingda snorted, ¡°That¡¯s because she is not smart enough, with those recipes she made, if we were to sell them, we would certainly win a mountain of gold..¡±

 Chapter 141 - 141: Mention It Again and Get Lost

    Chapter 141: Mention It Again and Get Lost


    Trantor: 549690339


    ¡°Are you really nning to marry her off to Sang?!¡± Seeing that Tong Xingda wasn¡¯t joking, Madam Zhang could not help but raise her voice, ¡°In view of her reputation and personality, 1 disagree!¡±


    Tong Xingda snorted, picked up a piece of elbow meat and threw it in his mouth, chewing heartily.


    ¡°Dad, all of Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s wheat has been sold, just because she used to make money does not guarantee she¡¯ll continue to do so.¡± Zhu Hongyun slowly spoke.


    Although Qiao Xiaomai had outdone the Tong Family innd cultivation, when it came to overall wealth, the Tong Family definitely had the upper hand.


    Based on Tong Sang¡¯s status, he couldpletely marry a girl in town; he didn¡¯t have to necessarily choose Qiao Xiaomai.


    Hearing this, Tong Xingda snorted again, but since it was his daughter-inw, he disyed a bit of patience. He pointed at the meat dishes on the table and said, ¡°Even the top chefs in the Capital City¡¯s ¡®Extremely Tasting Residence¡¯ would have to admit defeat in front of this culinary skill.¡±


    Zhu Hongyun paused, Tong Tiehu had made it a habit to visit Capital City every few years and naturally, Tong Xingda had been there several times too.


    Seeing the world of Capital City had given him the standards to make such aparison.


    However, her heart sank even more upon hearing this. She said softly, ¡°At the end of the day, she¡¯s just a cook¡­¡±


    Upon hearing these words, the little patience Tong Xingda had instantly vanished. He snorted coldly, picked up his chopsticks, and helped himself to another piece of braised pork.


    This taste was truly good; he had eaten more than ten pieces of fatty meat in a row and hadn¡¯t felt tired of it yet.


    Based on the standard of these few dishes, if it was promoted widely in Daqi, he could earn back a golden mountain.


    He heard that Qiao Xiaomai had invented something called bean sprouts; she had developed a new type of food nobody else could have thought of in their whole lifetime. In just one month, she had made so many of them. This girl herself was a golden mountain.


    Tsk.


    Surely, a group of fools.


    What did reputation matter? He should first bring home this golden mountain.


    ¡°Why are you all making a fuss? Eat,¡± Tong Tiehu sipped his wine; the pleasant expression on his face disappeared, and his stern demeanor returned.


    Madam Qian, Madam Zhang, and Zhu Hongyun all greatly disliked Qiao Xiaomai, and were acting as if they were afraid that Qiao Xiaomai would stick to them. Hah, what a joke.


    Qiao Xiaomai might not even consider Tong Sang worthy of her.


    ¡°I¡¯ll say it again, no more talk about Sang and Xiaomai. If anyone brings it up again, get out of the Tong Family.¡± By the time Tong Tiehu said this, his tone had turned severe. ¡°It just so happens, it¡¯s about time our family separates.¡±


    Once these words came out, the dining table immediately fell silent.


    Everyone stopped chewing. These words¡­ were quite harsh.


    Separate the family over this matter?


    Isn¡¯t that a bit too exaggerated?


    After mulling it over for a bit, Tong Sang continued eating without lifting his head. Tong Xingda frowned but did not speak, he raised his bowl of wine, and drained it in one gulp.


    The remaining people all frowned fiercely, the vor of the food in their mouths greatly diminished.


    Qiao Xiaomai had no idea the Tong Family was nning to separate over her. After Tong Sang left, she started having lunch with Qiao Changshun and Qiao Dami at the table.


    Tong Sang had left behind a te of braised pork and an elbow, as well as three bowls of pig trotter soup. Adding the fat intestines and pig ears to the table, there was enough food for the three of them.


    Qiao Changshun and Qiao Dami did not even lift their heads as they ate, it was too delicious, they had never known meat could taste this good!


    ¡°Xiaomai, it¡¯s a waste if you don¡¯t open a restaurant with this skill.¡± Qiao Changshun cleaned his te with a steamed bun and spoke between burps.


    A restaurant?


    Qiao Xiaomai raised an eyebrow, ¡°Dad, let¡¯s wait till we harvest the wheat.¡±


    They had three hundred acres of wheat.


    They have to enjoy their meals one bite at a time, and wealth was to be gathered bit by bit as well..

 Chapter 142 - 142: The Perfect Plan

    Chapter 142: The Perfect n


    Trantor: 549690339


    Qiao Xiaomai owned this muchnd for the first time and was currently interested in being a smallndowner.


    She also had crops like chilli and corn in her space.


    Chilli was just a vegetable, non-essential.


    But corn was different; corn was a staple food.


    Before sweet potatoes were introduced to Daqi, themon people there led a difficult life. Despite the emperor¡¯s light taxes, thend was barren, there was no fertilizer, and allbor had to be done manually leading to low efficiency.


    Furthermore, there were continuous disasters, with floods in the east and locust gues in the west.


    Anyway, before the introduction of sweet potatoes, ordinary people were struggling to sustain basic living.


    These days she had been indulging a bit, Qiao Changshun would often reminisce about the harsh old days, like when they would eat wild vegetables for most of the year, steam buns made from ground tree bark mixed with flour, and so on. It was a hard time.


    However, after the introduction of sweet potatoes, the situation improved greatly, at the very least, no one was starving anymore.


    But, sweet potatoes could not rece wheat or rice after all, eating too much of it was not good either.


    Therefore, the importance of corn to Daqi goes without saying.


    Like sweet potatoes, corn was easy to grow, had high yield, and was delicious too. If it could be promoted on arge scale, the quality of life of the people of Daqi could be improved even further.


    Qiao Xiaomai had already nned her development for the next few years: nt chillies to earn money.


    nt corn and dedicate it to Emperor Yongan.


    As the emperor was the ultimate authority in ancient times, currying favor with the emperor was very necessary.


    Under the protection of the emperor, she couldfortably farm, earn money and enjoy food.


    This n was perfect.


    As for getting married, when the timees, she¡¯ll be the head of the Qiao family. Whether she finds a man or not, who could force her?


    Heh.


    After revising her ns once more, Qiao Xiaomai washed a batch of soybeans, ready to grow bean sprouts.


    When she finished this, her day was almost over.


    They had something light for dinner, made Xiaomi porridge, and after the family of three had finished their meal and casually chatted for a bit, they retired to their respective rooms to sleep.


    The next day, after breakfast, Qiao Changshun saddled the donkey cart and took Qiao Xiaomai and Qiao Dami with him. The family of three headed towards town.


    Today was the day to collect the chicken feet, and Qiao Changshun was really thinking of buying a cow or a sheep.


    On reaching the town, they first went to Zuixian Building.


    As soon as the shopkeeper of Zuixian Building saw them, he happily greeted them, ¡°Ah, you¡¯ve finallye!¡±


    The chicken feet sold very well!


    The chicken feet that Qiao Xiaomai had sent over were sold out the same day.


    He alone had gnawed on more than a dozen!


    ¡°Miss Qiao, I¡¯ve prepared more than five hundred for you over these few days. Take them back quickly. Once you¡¯ve prepared them, deliver them tomorrow. Many customers have been asking about them.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai was not surprised at all.


    There were definitely many people like her who loved to gnaw on chicken feet and duck necks. Just looking at the number of duck neck shops inter generations would tell you.


    After loading the chicken feet onto the donkey cart, Shopkeeper Zhou looked at her hesitantly, ¡°Miss Qiao, are you really not going to sell this recipe? Zuixian Building is willing to offer a high price and will definitely not let you suffer a loss.¡±


    This kind of delicious food should be eaten every day and should be avable at every branch of Zuixian Building.


    Appearing only in Bailu Town, and only able to eat it once every few days, it was too distressing.


    Upon hearing this, Qiao Xiaomai smiled and shook her head.


    She sold the recipes of cold jelly noodles, tofu and bean curd for a loss, and unless necessary, she wasn¡¯t going to do this kind of shooting oneself in the foot again.


    ¡°Shopkeeper, not just the chicken feet, but also duck necks, duck wings, duck intestines, chicken wings, you can keep all of these. 1 can prepare them all.¡± She said before leaving.


    Relying solely on chicken feet was a bit monotonous, and she wanted to eat these other things as well.


    Farm hernd and make some sideline deals like this one. Perfect..

 Chapter 143 - 143: Closing a Small Deal

    Chapter 143: Closing a Small Deal


    Trantor: 549690339


    ¡°More than just chicken feet?¡± Upon hearing this, Shopkeeper Zhou quickly said, ¡°Miss Qiao, how about this, I¡¯ll give you some chickens and ducks, you prepare them however you want, and then bring them to me, how does that sound?¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s the meaning?¡± Qiao Xiaomai asked, intrigued.


    ¡°Well, 1 mean 1 won¡¯t charge you for these items. After you finish preparing them, bring them to me and 1¡¯11 pay you in silver for your effort. Does that sound good?¡± Shopkeeper Zhou exined.


    Qiao Xiaomai responded with a long, understanding ¡°Oh¡±. She realized she only needed to do the cooking, since the supplies were provided by the Zuixian Building.


    In all honesty, she didn¡¯t have a lot of silver on hand. She¡¯d need to hire quite some workers when it¡¯s time to harvest from the 300 acres of wheat field, and the expenses would be quite substantial.


    She had been contemting how to quickly earn more silver these past few days. Shopkeeper Zhou¡¯s proposition was exactly what she needed.


    ¡°How would you calcte mybor fee?¡± she asked.


    ¡°Um¡­how about five wen for a chicken?¡± Shopkeeper Zhou considered before offering a price.


    ¡°Prepare a chicken for five wen?¡± Qiao Xiaomai asked.


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s a bit low. Those spices are expensive. How about six wen?¡± Qiao Xiaomai haggled.


    Spices like cardamom, anise, cassia bark, brown sugar, Sichuan pepper, star anise and so forth were quite pricey. Everyone knew adding these spices made food taste better, but not many were willing to purchase them.


    When she cooked, she used all kinds of seasonings; even with reused marinade, plus the cost of firewood and transportation, five wen was a bit too low.


    ¡°Deal.¡± Shopkeeper Zhou agreed readily, it was only a wen- minor expenses for the Zuixian Building.


    ¡°Well then, I¡¯ll give miss ten chickens and ten ducks for today. Also, miss, you don¡¯t need to buy these chicken feet, just bring them tomorrow. A wen for each chicken foot, how does that sound?¡± Shopkeeper Zhou said.


    ¡°How much would you sell each chicken foot for?¡± Qiao Xiaomai asked.


    ¡°I n to sell them like tofu and bean curd, only for the wealthy.¡± Shopkeeper Zhou said with a smug smile.


    At a wen each, they¡¯d sell like hotcakes. But for the Zuixian Building, it wouldn¡¯t bring in much profit.


    Anyway, they were a scarcemodity. Naturally, the rarer the item, the higher it can sell for.


    ¡°Well, that puts me at a disadvantage.¡± Qiao Xiaomai blinked her dewy eyes at Shopkeeper Zhou.


    ¡°Oh, Miss Qiao, even if I set a high price, how much could chicken feet be?¡± Shopkeeper Zhou said.


    ¡°What about the chicken and duck? You can sell these for a high price, right?¡± Qiao Xiaomai asked again.


    Obviously, she was providing the key technology here. Even if she didn¡¯t split the profits with Zuixian Building, she shouldn¡¯t be given less than deserved, right?


    ¡°Fair enough. How about we raise it to seven wen for each chicken and two wen for each chicken foot?¡± Shopkeeper Zhou said with a pained expression, ¡°Miss Qiao, everyone knows the price of chicken meat. Even if I sell it at a high price, it can¡¯t be outrageous.¡±


    This wasn¡¯t like tofu and bean curd. Everybody knew they were made from soybeans. But if it came to the technique, aside from Miss Qiao, nobody knew, so Zuixian Building and Extreme Taste Residence could name their price.


    But braised meat was a different story. At the end of the day, it was still chicken. Plus, he let his chef taste the marinated chicken feet, and the chef had been researching these past few days ¨C the vor was not nearly as good as Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s, but not far behind either.


    So, when it came to price, he really didn¡¯t want to go too high.


    Qiao Xiaomai understood this and nodded, ¡°Then we¡¯ll go by this price.¡±


    So, it was settled. Qiao Xiaomai left the Zuixian Building with ten chickens, ten ducks, and more than five hundred chicken feet.


    As the family of three was about to head to the livestock market, a man appeared in front of the donkey cart. His round face beamed a friendly smile, it was Yuan Ding.


    ¡°Miss Qiao, the boss is waiting for you at Extreme Taste Residence. He said he has some pear saplings for you..¡±

 Chapter 144 - 144: Speak Nicely!

    Chapter 144: Speak Nicely!


    Trantor: 549690339


    ¡°Isn¡¯t there a rush?¡± Qiao Xiaomai furrowed her brow.


    nt trees? How long would it take her and Qiao Changshun to nt them?


    Seemingly perceiving Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s concern, Yuan Ding reassured her with a smile, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, miss. The shopkeeper will send people over to help you nt. And this batch of apple seedlings isn¡¯t too much, just two hundred.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s great!¡± Qiao Xiaomai and Qiao Changshun eximed in unison.


    ¡°Of course, when Shopkeeper He does things, he does them most properly.¡± The smile remained unchanged on Yuan Ding¡¯s round face.


    After a moment of consideration, Qiao Xiaomai nodded, ¡°Alright then.¡±


    Since Shopkeeper He nned to be fully helpful, she naturally couldn¡¯t refuse. In her view, this help with the apple seedlings was part of the previous tofu and bean curd biscuit trade, nothing to do with owing personal favors.


    So, Qiao Changshun took the donkey cart to the Jinwei Residence.


    Shopkeeper He was standing by the back door. Seeing the three members of the Qiao family arrive, he immediately burst intoughter, just like Shopkeeper Zhou, ¡°Ah, Miss Qiao, Brother Qiao, long time no see!¡±


    Qiao Changshun returned a constrained smile, without answering.


    Qiao Xiaomai forced out a simrly Buddha-like smile, ¡°Shopkeeper He, long time no see.¡±


    ¡°Come in for a cup of tea.¡± Shopkeeper He moved to the side, inviting the Qiao family inside.


    ¡°No need, we have things to do at home. What about the apple seedlings?¡± Qiao Xiaomai asked.


    ¡°Uh¡­shall we talk about it on the way?¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s about the chicken feet.¡±


    Putting on a look of deep concern, Shopkeeper He began his patient exnation to Qiao Xiaomai, ¡°Look, this donkey, these apple seedlings, and your family¡¯s millstone, as well as that one hundred and fifty acres ofnd, all were given as a gift by Jinwei Residence. And the cold jelly noodles, tofu, and bean curd biscuits sold by Jinwei Residence are your gifts.¡±


    ¡°Look, you and Jinwei Residence have such an intimate rtionship. Now that you have ess to a new delicacy, you can¡¯t give Jinwei Residence an exclusive supply, but at least you shouldn¡¯t deprive us right off the bat.¡±


    Speaking frankly, Shopkeeper He was frustrated. Very frustrated.


    He didn¡¯t know that his initialment about dowry offended Qiao Xiaomai. Thinking that Qiao Xiaomai was upset about the one hundred and fifty acres ofnd, he offered to deliver and nt the apple seedlings as a bonus when she got them.


    But looking at Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s current expression, it was a forced smile. How irritating to look at.


    Qiao Xiaomai has many novel ideas for making money. This gap between them must be bridged today. With that thought in mind, he made his tone even more sincere and earnest than before, ¡°Miss Qiao, the one hundred and fifty acres ofnd are far from Anping Vige. This is not our shopkeeper¡¯s intention. But the vigers of Anping Vige won¡¯t sell theirnd. Our shopkeeper can¡¯t rob them, can he?¡±


    Upon hearing these words, Qiao Xiaomai was taken aback, then sheughed, ¡°I¡¯m not angry.¡±


    ¡°Then why didn¡¯t youe to Jinwei Residence when you got the new food, and instead went to Zuixian Building? After all, your first cooperation was with Jinwei Residence. Moreover, we also have a rtion with Tong Sang. He oftenes here to sell wild game, and I¡¯m quite familiar with him.¡±


    Shopkeeper He was confused as he tried to establish a connection.


    ¡°Shopkeeper, you¡¯re really well informed.¡± Instead of answering Shopkeeper He¡¯s question, Qiao Xiaomai sighed.


    Two jars of chicken feet, a hundred in total, were sold out casually, yet this trivial matter was uncovered by Shopkeeper He as her doing.


    Zuixian Building and Jinwei Residence surely arepeting fiercely.


    ¡°Next time, I¡¯ll definitelye to Jinwei Residence.¡± She said, ¡°I¡¯m too busy to


    supply both of you with chicken feet at the same time..¡±

 Chapter 145 - 145: The Valuable Sheep

    Chapter 145: The Valuable Sheep


    Trantor: 549690339


    Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s family only had two pots. One for cooking meals and the other for seasoning these items, and she really couldn¡¯t keep up with the work.


    Moreover, the profit she got wasn¡¯t that high, if she was busy one day, she might just stop doing it.


    The thing she most wanted to make at the moment was tofu skin.


    The technique involved wasn¡¯tplex, but it was a lot more trouble than making tofu.


    With that in mind, she nned to use the proceeds from the tofu skin sales to cover her recent expenses: buying cattle and sheep, hiring workers, and everything else.


    Shopkeeper He reacted a bit ufortably to Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s words.


    Although his suspicions hadn¡¯t been cleared up, it was good enough that Qiao Xiaomai was willing to bring fresh food over.


    Thinking about it, he gave a long sigh, ¡°Right, I¡¯ll remember what you said.


    Miss, do not forget to bring food to Ji Weiju next time.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai nodded, ¡°I won¡¯t forget.¡±


    After they had finished discussing official matters, Shopkeeper He ordered his people to load the 200 mer saplings and followed Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s donkey cart towards the three slopes.


    He had originally nned to buy cattle and sheep, but that would have to be postponed.


    The three slopes were situated on the southeast side of Anping Vige, next to a small river. Since it was spring, the weeds were growing profusely, reaching waist-high in some areas on the slopes.


    Shopkeeper He didn¡¯te over, and it was Yuan Ding who was responsible for the nting of the mer seedlings.


    Qiao¡¯s family of three sat in the donkey cart as Yuan Ding issued instructions, and the ten people who had apanied them immediately went up to cut the grass with spades.


    The three slopes totaled over fifty acres in area. They definitely wouldn¡¯t clear it all, just enough to nt the mer seedlings.


    Qiao Xiaomai got down from the donkey cart, squinted her eyes and observed for a while, then asked Yuan Ding, ¡°Brother Yuan, do I need to provide lunch for these workers?¡±


    ¡°No need, Shopkeeper He will send someone to deliver it. If you have nothing else to do, you can go home directly. Come over tomorrow and take a look. Don¡¯t worry, we¡¯ll definitely handle everything properly.¡±


    With that, Qiao Xiaomai felt relieved and went home with Qiao Changsun.


    There was no way, the chicken feet and poultry that were on the cart needed to be seasoned. Her being there was purely a waste of time.


    Once at home, Qiao Xiaomai didn¡¯t rush to cook, but went up the mountain to gather firewood.


    The earth stove burned through a lot of wood, especially with the food they made the previous day.


    Although Rooster Mountain wasrge, it couldn¡¯t handle all the people in Anping Vige using it for firewood. Therefore, firewood gathering wasn¡¯t an easy job, she had to travel further into the mountain.


    After roaming around the mountain for half an hour, she came down carrying arge bundle of firewood.


    But to make sure she could gather dry wood quickly for the next time, she brutally snapped three saplings the size of a bowl with her bare hands before leaving, and carelessly threw them on the ground to dry. The next time she came, she just had to drag the three trees down the hill.


    When she got home, she first cooked lunch. The two grass carps bought yesterday hadn¡¯t been eaten yet, so they were cooked into a fish soup. After lunch, Qiao Xiaomai began to season the five hundred chicken feet and ten each of chickens and ducks. She was busy all afternoon until dusk.


    The family ate dinner early and went to bed early. The next day, the three of them rode the donkey cart to the town.


    Five hundred and thirty-two chicken feet, two coins each, totaled to a thousand and sixty-four coins.


    Each chicken cost seven coins, the prices for chicken and duck were the same, twenty in total amounted to one hundred and forty coins.


    They had been busy all day yesterday and earned one thousand two hundred and four coins in total.


    Qiao Changshun breathed a sigh of relief. They had been spending money for the past few days, and he was starting to worry.


    Since they made money, the three of them went to the ce where cattle and sheep were sold.


    This ce was on the edge of Bailu Town, in arge courtyard. There were both cattle and sheep avable, and they all looked good, fat and strong.


    However, not only did these livestock look good, but their prices were also quite impressive. The price of a milk-producing ewe was as high as eight taels of silver..

 Chapter 146 - 146: The Tofu Skin and Bean Sprouts are Ready

    Chapter 146: The Tofu Skin and Bean Sprouts are Ready


    Trantor: 549690339


    Eight taels of silver, this was more than Qiao Xiaomai had expected.


    The total of copper coins and chunks of silver in her hands did not even amount to forty taels, and she was about to spend eight taels of silver on a sheep that was only to be used for milking¡­


    She was somewhat hesitant.


    In recent days, they had been living with an abundance of fish and meat, owning three hundred acres of farnd, and even iming to be the wealthiest in Anping Vige.


    But now, she was even reluctant to buy a sheep worth eight taels of silver¡­


    Once again, Qiao Xiaomai had a deep realization of her poverty, and the previous sense of urgency returned.


    ¡°WelL.let¡¯s wait until we have harvested our wheat to buy it?¡± She asked Qiao Changshun for his opinion.


    They had three hundred acres of wheat, after paying taxes and saving enough for the family, they could sell the rest.


    ¡°Alright.¡± Qiao Changshun had no objections. He could estimate the amount of silver Qiao Xiaomai had on hand, and spending eight taels of silver on a sheep was also a reluctance for him.


    If both of them were hesitant, then naturally they did not buy it.


    Qiao Xiaomai exined this to Qiao Dami, who nodded in understanding, ¡°Well buy itter!¡±


    It seemed like they wouldn¡¯t be eating Milk Steamed Buns for a while, but it didn¡¯t matter. They would definitely be able to eat them in the future!


    So, the family of three left Bailu Town. Once back home, Qiao Changshun took Qiao Dami to walk around the wheat field, while Qiao Xiaomai stayed at home to make tofu skin.


    She had soaked soybeans the day before, so she could use them now.


    First, she ground the soybeans, then poured them into the pot to start cooking. When the soy milk was about to boil, she turned off the heat. After a while, the soy milk in the pot gradually solidified, with ayer of skin appearing on top.


    She took the skin out, let it dry in the sun, and then it became tofu skin.


    It was aplex task. After she solidified ayer of soybean skin, she had to heat the soy milk, turn off the heat, wait for it to congeal, dry the skin in the sun, and then continue to add heat until the soy milk in the pot was used up.


    This job did not require much expertise, but it was indeed cumbersome.


    Because of this, tofu skin had always been priced high, especially the handmade ones, which could sell for dozens of yuan per catty in the future.


    For three consecutive days, Qiao Xiaomai was busy making tofu skin. The tofu skin had to be dried after being made, so on the day she had to collect chicken ws from Zuixian Building, she could only bring the three catties of tofu skin she made on the first day.


    However, her bean sprouts were finally ready to be sold.


    During these days, her room and Qiao Changshun¡¯s room were filled with boxes of bean sprouts. This time when she went to town, she brought a total of one hundred catties.


    The rest, she nned to sell in the vige.


    Upon reaching the town, Qiao Xiaomai still went straight to Zuixian Building.


    Having collected over five hundred chicken ws and ten chickens and ducks, Qiao Xiaomaiid out the tofu skin and fifty catties of bean sprouts.


    ¡°Shopkeeper, these bean sprouts cost two wen per catty, you can let the chef stir-fry them.¡±


    ¡°This is tofu skin, one tael of silver per catty, it needs to be soaked in water first, but the taste is very good.¡±


    Shopkeeper Zhou stroked his beard, his eyes revolving around the two food items.


    One was two wen per catty.


    The other was one tael of silver per catty.


    This difference was too much.


    ¡°Why¡­ Why is there such a big price difference?¡± Shopkeeper Zhou asked.


    ¡°Because one is easy, the other is troublesome.¡±


    Moreover, neither of the two required any special skills.


    Ordinary people might not have the patience to investigate it, but ces like Zuixian Building would definitely be interested in researching it.


    Especially with tofu skin, which is simple to make. If someone at the Zuixian Building or other establishments identally figured out how to make it, she wouldn¡¯t be able to sell it for much anymore.


    Therefore, while she could still sell these as exclusive items, she would try to earn as much as she could..

 Chapter 147 - 147: Sold Out-!

    Chapter 147: Sold Out-!


    Trantor: 549690339


    ¡°Howbor-intensive could it be to make such a huge price difference?¡± Shopkeeper Zhou, always a smiley man, widened his eyes in astonishment. Tofu and bean curd, which required high technical expertise and tasted delicious, sold for only twenty coins a bowl. And this tofu skin cost a tael of silver per catty, could it really involve countless procedures?


    ¡°Anyway, it¡¯s veryborious. It took me days to make this much,¡± Qiao Xiaomai reluctantly borated.


    ¡°Then can I ask what it¡¯s made of?¡± Shopkeeper Zhou asked.


    The bean sprouts were obvious, judging by both their name and appearance, they were clearly made from soybeans.


    But this tofu skin, he really couldn¡¯t figure it out.


    ¡°That¡¯s a secret, but it¡¯s edible and tastes really good,¡± Qiao Xiaomai refused to disclose the ingredient.


    There was no other way; this was indeed too intriguing.


    Once you learn how to make soy milk, tofu and bean curd, with a little thought, you can make tofu skin.


    ¡°OK, I¡¯ll have my men try it,¡± Shopkeeper Zhou didn¡¯t push further. He called over a waiter and ordered him to take the bean sprouts and tofu skin to the kitchen.


    Of course, only a strip of tofu skin was given for the test, as it seemed to be well-preserved and couldst for a long time. If it tasted good, he would have to think about how to get its maximum value.


    ¡°So, Shopkeeper, can I deliver these bean sprouts to Jiweiju now?¡± Qiao Xiaomai didn¡¯t want to wait any longer.


    Upon hearing this, Shopkeeper Zhou instantly threw on a dazzling smile, ¡°Miss Qiao, Zuixian Building can easily handle these little things. There is no need for you to run around.¡±


    ¡°Well, I¡¯ve sold the tofu skin to you, but let¡¯s split the bean sprouts evenly between our houses. As you know, I can¡¯t offend them either,¡± Qiao Xiaomai looked troubled.


    ¡°Fair enough.¡± Shopkeeper Zhou nodded regretfully.


    Both houses have been inpetition for years, and whenever one invents something new, the other will surely know it at once.


    Even if he wanted to monopolize, it would never work out.


    Now that Qiao Xiaomai has sold him the chicken feet and tofu skin, Zuixian Building has the upper hand in thispetition.


    With this realization, Shopkeeper Zhou¡¯s spirits lifted. He waved his hand generously, smiling widely, ¡°Go ahead,e back for your silverter.¡±


    By saying this, he had implicitly agreed to purchase the tofu skin.


    And indeed, there was no poorly-tasting food that came from Qiao Xiaomai.


    Therefore, Qiao Xiaomai left Qiao Changshun and Qiao Dami waiting at Zuixian Building, while she took a sack to Jiweiju by herself.


    Of course, to keep a low profile, she pretended to be exhausted. By the time she reached Jiweiju, she was panting and sweating.


    Shopkeeper He was very interested in the bean sprouts. After tasting a raw one, he immediately paid for them without having the chef try out first.


    With a hundred coin in her pouch, Qiao Xiaomai returned to Zuixian Building.


    By then, stir-fried bean sprouts and tofu skin had been prepared.


    The bean sprouts tasted good. Shopkeeper Zhou nodded approvingly. There was another dish that could be put on the menu.


    When he tasted the tofu skin, he chewed each mouthful for a dozen times or more, like he was savoring some heavenly delicacy.


    Unfortunately, even after he finished his small te of stir-fried tofu skin, he still couldn¡¯t figure out what the ingredient was.


    But he was certain that tofu skin was delicious¡ªit was better than tofu and could definitely stand shoulder to shoulder with bean curd.


    ¡°Miss Qiao, are you sure you¡¯re not going to sell the recipe?¡± He couldn¡¯t help but ask again.


    ¡°No,¡± Qiao Xiaomai answered firmly.


    If the price was high, then it wouldn¡¯t work because it didn¡¯t require suchplex techniques.


    And if it was low, well, she deemed it unfair.


    So, it was most reasonable for her to earn as much as she could before Zusixian


    Building figured out the trick..

 Chapter 148 - 148: He Thinks She is Quite Stupid

    Chapter 148: He Thinks She is Quite Stupid


    Trantor: 549690339


    As a result, Qiao Xiaomai finally left Zuixian Building with three taels of silver and a hundred copper coins, thrilled. Qiao Changshun was quite pleased, too.


    One tael of silver for one pound!


    ¡°Xiaomai, let me take over making the dried tofu in the future?¡± he asked, rubbing hisrge hands excitedly.


    Whether he was out collecting wood or weeding the fields, his legs were always a burden. Making the dried tofu required only watching over the stove, which was quite easy for him.


    ¡°Alright.¡± Qiao Xiaomai nodded.


    She hoped to make as much silver as possible from the dried tofu before Zuixian Building could figure out how to make it themselves.


    The family of three returned home, where it was not yet noon.


    They still had a few dozen pounds of bean sprouts left at home which they could sell in the vige. She filled a basket with two pounds and started heading towards the Tong Family.


    When she arrived, Tong Tiehu, Tong Sang, Tong Xingda, Mrs. Zhang, Mrs. Qian, Tong Eng and Zhu Hongyun were all there. Mr. and Mrs. Tong Xingda generally lived in town, but due to the matter between Tong Sang and Qiao Xiaomai, they had chosen to stay this time.


    Even though Tong Tiehu had explicitly stated that Tong Sang and Qiao Xiaomai were not to be matched, Tong Xingda, being the sole child of Tong Tiehu, had no fear of his father¡¯s anger. After all, he was the one Tong Tiehu would live with regardless of what happened with the family.


    For the past few days, he has been trying to manipte Tong Tiehu: Qiao Xiaomai can make money, big money. In however many decades he had lived, this was the first time he¡¯de across a girl who knew how to make money.


    And she was slow.


    It was foolish of her to trade the recipes for such scant returns. Tong Xingda suspected Qiao Xiaomai was slow-witted.


    But it was easier to control her because of her slowness.


    Even though she was a bit vtile, how far could she really go?


    She¡¯s only a girl, after all. She couldn¡¯t shake the heavens, could she?


    With these thoughts in mind, he kept whispering in Tong Tiehu¡¯s ear, suggesting he let Tong Sang marry Qiao Xiaomai. Naturally, Tong Tiehu didn¡¯t agree.


    He didn¡¯t tell Tong Xingda about the peculiarities Qiao Xiaomai was disying. Only he and Tong Sang knew.


    How could you let a man marry a girl of mysterious origins and abilities?


    It was not okay, absolutely not okay.


    Tong Sang acted oblivious to his father¡¯s thoughts. Each day consisted of studying, going up the mountain, and thinking on how to approach Qiao Xiaomai for information.


    And today, while he was considering whether to visit the Qiao Family tomorrow to renegotiate the birthday banquet menu, Qiao Xiaomai showed up without warning.


    His handsome face broke out into a mild smile; neither excessively enthusiastic nor too indifferent, ¡°Miss Qiao, what brings you here?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯vee to deliver the bean sprouts. I hope Master Tong could help spread the word around the vige.¡± Qiao Xiaomai handed the basket in her hand a little further forward.


    ¡°Okay.¡± Tong Sang epted the bean sprouts without hesitation, nning to turn away.


    A hearty voice rang out from behind him, ¡°Oh, isn¡¯t this the oldest daughter of the Changshun family? Pleasee in,e in.¡±


    Tong Sang paused in his steps, a little helpless.


    Qiao Xiaomai was also taken aback. She was unfamiliar with Tong Xingda as he rarely stayed in the vige. Sometimes she wouldn¡¯t see him for a whole year. Moreover, she was often too shy to look up. So her memory of Tong Xingda was a bit fuzzy.


    Currently, looking at an overly enthusiastic Tong Xingda, she turned towards Tong Sang uncertainly. What was happening?


    Tong Sang just stood there as Qiao Xiaomai looked at him, unsure of how to exin.


    Tong Xingdapletely disregarded his reaction, stepping aside and inviting Qiao Xiaomai into the courtyard, ¡°Please,e have a seat.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s face broke into an awkward smile.


    At the same time, she could feel a sharp pain in her lower abdomen..

 Chapter 149 - 149: Period Has Come

    Chapter 149: Period Has Come


    Trantor: 549690339


    She was no stranger to this kind of pain, extremely simr to the cramps she would get when she had her periods before.


    She silently cursed. The previous owner, due to malnutrition, even at the age of fifteen, had not started menstruating yet.


    As a result, after her diet had improved when she crossed over into this body, she got her period in less than a month.


    But since it was an irregr period, the first time it came, the cramps in her lower abdomen swarmed like a raging tide.


    Damn, the pain was so fierce, and there was no gradual onset at all!


    Furrowing her brows, her curved eyebrows knitted together, almost unable to maintain the smile on her face, ¡°No, Uncle Tong, my father and Dami are waiting for me back home to cook dinner.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not even noon yet,e in and sit for a while.¡± Tong Xingda was very enthusiastic. If it weren¡¯t for the gender mismatch, he would have reached out to pull Qiao Xiaomai in.


    ¡°No no no, I really need to go back, maybe next time.¡± Qiao Xiaomai waved her hands in refusal.


    Not to mention the unbearable abdominal cramps, this was her period!


    There would be bleeding down there!


    If she stained her clothes, it would be so embarrassing!


    Thinking about the long distance between Tong¡¯s house and her own, Qiao Xiaomai immediately said, ¡°Uncle Tong, Brother Tong, 1 have to go now!¡±


    After speaking, she turned her head and ran off.


    This situation was so damn embarrassing!


    Seeing her run away, Tong Xingda turned a little upset, while the third master, Tong, was taken aback. He quickly dumped the bean sprouts from the basket onto the table, picked up the basket, and chased after her.


    He had seen Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s momentary frown earlier.


    ¡°Miss Qiao, wait!¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai wanted to cry. Wait for what? The pain in her lower abdomen was bing increasingly unbearable. She wished she could sprout a pair of wings and fly back to her home in an instant.


    Although she didn¡¯t feel any blood flow at the moment, there was still a quarter of an hour¡¯s journey to go. She was wearing a light blue skirt, which was the brightest colored dress among all her clothes.


    If menstrual blood stained it, it would definitely be obvious.


    Why did she have to wear this set today!


    Regretting inwardly, Qiao Xiaomai quickened her pace. Encountering such a situation as a woman was indeed terrifying!


    ¡°Miss Qiao, wait!¡± Seeing Qiao Xiaomai running faster and faster, Tong also quickened his steps.


    Qiao Xiaomai rolled her eyes, what the hell was he chasing her for at this time?!


    ¡°Miss Qiao, your basket!¡± said Tong, clearing up her confusion.


    At his words, she stopped in her tracks.


    Okay, it was the basket.


    When she stopped, the intense exercise from earlier made her abdominal pain worse.


    The intense pain made it difficult for her to stand. She subconsciously bent over, pressing both hands on her lower abdomen.


    At this moment, a warm flow leaked out from below, making her feel both wet and hot.


    ¡°Damn it¡­¡±


    She really wanted to cry now. What should she do about the rest of the journey?!


    ¡°Miss Qiao, are you okay?¡± At this time, Tong reached her. Looking at her slightly pale face, concern could be clearly seen on his handsome face.


    ¡°I¡¯m fine.¡± Qiao Xiaomai squeezed out these words through her clenched teeth, reaching out her right hand to take the basket.


    Tong frowned, ¡°Are you sure you¡¯re alright? Can you make it home safely in this condition?¡±


    ¡°I can.¡± Qiao Xiaomai squeezed out another two words, holding the basket in her right hand, and turned around, preparing to leave.


    Damn, the flow from below was getting more and more intense. This was her first time, why was the flow so heavy!


    Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s eyes were blurred with tears. While bending over and bearing the pain, gritting her teeth and carrying the basket, she was about to step forward. Suddenly, a severe pain struck, another flow of blood oozed out, and she let out an agonizing groan. Her body swayed and began to tilt towards the ground..

 Chapter 150 - 150: Bringing Back Home

    Chapter 150: Bringing Back Home


    Trantor: 549690339


    Surprise flickered in Tong Sang¡¯s eyes as he quickly extended his arm, catching Qiao Xiaomai right before she hit the ground.


    A delicate fragrance reached him. It smelled pleasant.


    Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s loose hair brushed against his cheek, tickling him.


    However, seeing the sweat on Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s forehead, his eyebrows furrowed even more tightly. He quickly dismissed any other thoughts from his mind, ¡°Miss Qiao, let me take you to Doctor Wu.¡±


    In a vige as big as Anping Vige, there naturally existed a doctor, and his residence wasn¡¯t far from the Tong Family¡¯s ce.


    Upon hearing this, Qiao Xiaomai quickly reached out to grasp Tong Sang¡¯s arm, gritting her teeth and saying, ¡°No.¡±


    Taking a deep breath, she closed her eyes, not daring to look at Tong Sang¡¯s handsome face that was so close. She quickly blurted out, ¡°I¡­I¡¯m having my period. Go and hitch the cart and take me home.¡±


    Since the situation was already so embarrassing, there was no way she could dodge it any longer.


    So, she just decided to bite the bullet, closing her eyes and making her request.


    As for how Tong Sang would view her, it didn¡¯t matter.


    Previously, because of the Sun Family¡¯s nonsensical talk, she and Tong Sang had already felt awkward towards each other. Now, adding a bit more awkwardness didn¡¯t matter.


    Tong Sang stayed silent for a moment, his expression calm, but he was rendered speechless on the inside.


    Considering Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s ability to conjure things out of thin air, should she really fear this minor monthly cycle?


    With doubt in his heart, he bent down, stretched out his long arm, and scooped Qiao Xiaomai into his arms. ¡°I¡¯ll carry you home, alright?¡±


    The speed of the ox cart was not any faster than walking.


    Additionally, if she returned home now, people at home would surely bombard her with questions. Given how nonchntly Qiao Xiaomai was treating what seemed like her impending death, she definitely didn¡¯t want others to know about this.


    As for how many people would see them on the way¡­


    Well, with his grandpa holding the fort, no one dared to gossip openly.


    Also, considering Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s capabilities, she probably wouldn¡¯t care about her reputation.


    After all, the virtuous can silence nders.


    Qiao Xiaomai would have broken into tears had she known what Tong Sang was thinking.


    What abilities did she have? She just had a space!


    And she was really conscious about her reputation since it would affect her business!


    However, at this moment she didn¡¯t know what Tong Sang was thinking. The severe pain had left her mind in a haze, so she allowed Tong Sang to pick her up without any resistance. Without thinking, she merely said, ¡°Let¡¯s go-¡±


    Such an embarrassing situation, she didn¡¯t want the Tong family to know.


    As for whether people would misunderstand her rtionship with Tong Sang, she couldn¡¯t care about that now. Having lived twice, this was the first time she experienced such excruciating pain. She just wanted to go home, lie in bed, and drink some brown sugar water.


    So, Tong Sang really carried Qiao Xiaomai all the way back to the Qiao Family¡¯s house.


    Since it wasn¡¯t the busy farming season, everyone was out in the fields weeding. The only people who saw them on the street were children ying and old people sunbathing.


    When they encountered children, he walked straight on. When they met old people, he greeted them and exined: Qiao Xiaomai suddenly fainted, so he had to take her home.


    Meanwhile, Qiao Xiaomai buried her face in his chest, her eyes shut and saying nothing.


    She didn¡¯t feel anything, didn¡¯t know anything!


    They quickly reached the Qiao Family¡¯s house. He kicked open the door and called out, ¡°Uncle Changshun, Dami, 1 need some hot water.¡±


    Qiao Changshun was busy with the stove, and Qiao Dami was cleaning the hen house. They both jumped when they saw him carrying Qiao Xiaomai in.


    ¡°What happened?!¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s having her periods. Uncle Changshun, get her a bowl of hot soybean milk.¡± Tong Sang nced at the pot, gave an order, and then carried Qiao Xiaomai into her room.


    Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s room was very simple, with a bed, desk, and a wooden box. The rest of the spaces were filled with bean sprout boxes.


    Tong Sang didn¡¯t nce around, but ced Qiao Xiaomai on the bed.


    Qiao Xiaomai rubbed her feet together, took off her shoes, pulled the nket over her and covered herself.


    Her movements were very swift.


    With her muffled voiceing through the nket, she said, ¡°Thank you, Sang.¡±


    From now on, we really shouldn¡¯t see each other anymore¡­


    This is so embarrassing!

 Chapter 151 - 151: Tong Sanlang Has Caught On

    Chapter 151: Tong Sang Has Caught On


    Trantor: 549690339


    Tong Sang looked at Qiao Xiaomai, wrapped up like a cocoon on the bed, feeling somewhat conflicted.


    He was genuinely puzzled why Qiao Xiaomai could not withstand something as minor as menstruation.


    Being a man, his knowledge about menstruation came from books. He knew it was painful, but Qiao Xiaomai was clearly not an ordinary person!


    He had concluded over these days that if Qiao Xiaomai really wanted to stir things up, he wouldn¡¯t be able to stop her.


    How could someone like that not withstand menstruation?


    Did he misjudge Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s capability?


    Secretly tutting, he banished these jumbled thoughts to the back of his mind, and asked, ¡°Miss Qiao, do you need me to fetch Doctor Wu?¡±


    ¡°No need.¡± Qiao Xiaomai mumbled in response.


    When she used to have her period, all she needed was to drink some hot water.


    She never took any medication.


    Moreover, with the tumultuous journey, her bottomyers of clothing had already been stained red. It was very ufortable sticking to her body.


    Just as she was considering how to ask Tong Sang to leave so she could change her clothes and use a sanitary pad, Qiao Changshun walked in carrying a bowl of steaming soy milk.


    Behind him was a worried-looking Qiao Dami.


    ¡°Xiaomai, are you okay?¡± Holding the bowl, Qiao Changshun looked concerned.


    ¡°I brought you some hot soy milk, have some.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m fine, you guys can leave now,¡± Qiao Xiaomai muttered.


    In a household without a woman, there were three men standing at her bedside. She really wished she could hide under her nket forever.


    Damn!


    ¡°Fine, we¡¯ll leave.¡± Tong Sang spoke. If they didn¡¯t leave, Qiao Xiaomai was likely to stay hidden under the nket.


    As he turned to leave, he was about to bend down to pick up Qiao Dami.


    Then his gazended on the patch of red on his clothes and he froze.


    A bloodstain the size of a fingernail cap was smeared on his lower abdomen. He was wearing a moon-white short shirt today, the bloodstain was not big, but it was quite noticeable on the moon-white attire.


    He stared at the bloodstained for a while before the aromatic scent that had been wafting at the tip of his nose shback to his mind.


    He didn¡¯t know what the smell was, but it smelled really good and inexplicably elevated.


    The Qiaos certainly couldn¡¯t afford incense.


    Could this scent be what they call the virginal scent?


    At the thought of this possibility, an unnatural look shed across Tong Sang¡¯s handsome face.


    The scent that was lingering at the tip of his nose had dissipated and, inexplicably, he felt a moment of emptiness.


    ¡°Sang, let¡¯s go out. I¡¯ll boil a pot of hot water.¡± Qiao Changshun put the soy milk on the table and started to walk out.


    His voice pulled Tong Sang back from his daze. Tong Sang hurriedlyposed his expression, responded with a stable hum, and followed him out of the room.


    As soon as Tong Sang and the others left the room, Qiao Xiaomai abruptly jumped out of bed. She blindly pulled the curtains over, changed out of her clothes and put on clean ones, then padded herself with a sanitary napkin.


    After she finished with everything, she picked up the bowl of soy milk on the table and began sipping it slowly.


    The scalding soy milk entered her stomach, suppressing the excruciating pain.


    However, her stomach was still hurting.


    It wasn¡¯t like her previous life where a cup of hot water couldpletely suppress the pain.


    She rubbed her belly with her hand, her small face crumpled. Does she really need to call a doctor?


    As Qiao Xiaomai was worrying in her room, Tong Sang, who had just left the hall, turned to Qiao Changshun and said, ¡°Uncle Changshun, I think we should call Doctor Wu after all.¡±


    He had severely underestimated Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s ability. She couldn¡¯t even bear with menstruation. Sigh, they¡¯d better call a doctor to have a look..

 Chapter 152 - 152 Relations Improvement

    Chapter 152: Rtions Improvement


    Trantor: 549690339


    Qiao Changshun promptly responded, ¡°I will let Dami get a doctor, and in the meantime, I will heat some water.¡±


    ¡°Dami and I will go together.¡± Tong Sang bent down to pick up Qiao Dami, ¡°Dami, let¡¯s go.¡±


    Qiao Dami nodded enthusiastically, his tiny arms wrapped around Tong Sang¡¯s neck, ¡°Brother Tong, let¡¯s go.¡±


    Qiao Changshun watched their figures as they left, offering no objections.


    He had been hoping for Tong Sang¡¯s assistance all along, so he was pleased that the young man was willing to help.


    Things are moving in the right direction¡ªhe thought.


    Any other young man might have been embarrassed and declined to involve himself in such matters, but Tong Sang had taken the initiative.


    This is promising!


    With that in mind, Qiao Changshun headed into the kitchen to heat water for Qiao Xiaomai.


    After half an hour, Tong Sang and Qiao Dami returned, but Doctor Wu wasn¡¯t with them.


    ¡°I told Doctor Wu about Xiaomai¡¯s symptoms, he said it¡¯s not serious, some herbal medicine should do the trick,¡± Tong Sang said, holding three packets of herbs.


    ¡°I will prepare the medicine right away.¡± Qiao Changshun nodded.


    Qiao Dami hopped off Tong Sang and bounced into the room, calling out, ¡°Sis! Sis!¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai was lying in bed, covered by a quilt with only her pale face showing, asked, ¡°What is it?¡±


    ¡°Brother Tong bought you medicine. It cost one hundred and sixty-three copper coins. Hand me the coins, and I¡¯ll give them to him,¡± Qiao Dami said with a concerned look. ¡°Sis, are you feeling better? Don¡¯t worry, Dad is preparing the medicine right now.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai responded and took out one string of coins.


    ¡°You can give it to him yourself.¡±


    ¡°Wow, Sis, you hide the coins under your quilt?¡± asked Qiao Dami, with surprise on his face.


    Qiao Xiaomai closed her eyes, hummed an acknowledgment, and said, ¡°You better go.¡±


    Qiao Dami picked up the string of coins, dashed over to Tong Sang and told him, ¡°Brother Tong, you count it!¡±


    Tong Sang yfully tousled his hair, counted a hundred and sixty-three coins, threaded the rest back onto the string, and handed it back to him. ¡°Give this to your sister and let her keep it safe. You go and prepare the medicine. Let your Dad cook. Your sister is weak, you should help out more around the house. Got it?¡±


    ¡°Got it!¡± Qiao Dami replied loudly.


    He had always been a diligent boy who never shirked his duties.


    ¡°Good boy.¡± said Tong Sang with a light smile. He took out three coins and gave them to Qiao Dami. ¡°Here, buy yourself something you like.¡±


    Qiao Dami looked at the three coins and then back at his father in the kitchen, ¡°Dad, Brother Tong gave me coins for spending!¡±


    ¡°Well, you keep it then, don¡¯t be shy with your Brother Tong.¡± Qiao Changshun¡¯s voice contained a hint of glee.


    Look, he¡¯s even giving Dami some pocket money now. Their rtionship is advancing rapidly today!


    Qiao Dami epted the coins happily, thanking Tong Sang loudly.


    Tong Sang ruffled his hair again and then excused himself, turning to leave.


    It was noon now; he needed to get back home.


    Not only did he have to deal with his family¡¯s inquiries, but he also had to clean off the bloodstain.


    Darn it, he had been foolish earlier, thinking that the scent lingering on Qiao Xiaomai was that of a virgin¡¯s. Given Xiaomai¡¯s abilities, it wouldn¡¯t be strange for her to have incense at hand.


    He had let himself be sidetracked by the idea of virginity.


    Although, he hadn¡¯t spent much time around girls¡­ maybe it was time for him to start thinking about marriage?


    Tong Sang walked back to the Tong Family estate in a state of chagrin. Tong Xingda and the Zhang Family didn¡¯t look happy. Their son had spent too much time chasing after Qiao Xiaomai.. That flirtatious vixen truly knew how to ensnare men!

 Chapter 153 - 153: What Does it Feel Like to be Held by Brother Tong?

    Chapter 153: What Does it Feel Like to be Held by Brother Tong?


    Trantor: 549690339


    Tong Sang only said that Qiao Xiaomai was unwell, briefly exined a bit, and then stopped speaking.


    Tong Tiehu swept a sharp look around and everyone immediately shut up.


    No matter what they were thinking, at the very least, they couldn¡¯t confront Tong Tiehu to his face.


    The Qiao Family.


    Qiao Changshun heated some water, found a water bag, poured the hot water into it for Qiao Xiaomai to hold against her stomach, then he went to cook, as Qiao Dami was in charge of cooking the medicine.


    After the medicine was ready, Qiao Dami used a cloth to hold the earthen jar as he poured it into a bowl, then he carefully carried the bowl into Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s room, ¡°Sister, it¡¯s time to drink the medicine ¨C it won¡¯t hurt once you¡¯ve drunk it~¡±


    He spoke in a tone that coddled children, much to Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s amusement.


    Compared to the previous tumultuous storm of pain, at this moment, the pain had been suppressed, leaving only small waves ¨C entirely bearable.


    She sat up, leaning against the head of the bed, taking the bowl of medicine from him.


    The medicine in the bowl was dark and thick, giving off a peculiar smell which made her wrinkle her brow instinctively.


    Seeing this, Qiao Dami quickly reminded, ¡°Sister, Doctor Wu said that the medicine should be drink hot!¡±


    Hearing that, Qiao Xiaomai gave up the idea of letting the medicine cool down and drank it reluctantly, taking little sips.


    Her face, which was already pale, turned even paler.


    The indescribable strange taste in her mouth made her miss modern Western medicine. If she had known she¡¯d have menstrual cramps here, she would have bought some medicine in advance!


    Remembering what Tong Sang had told him earlier, Qiao Dami opened his mouth to speak, ¡°Sister, let¡¯s chat!¡±


    Brother Tong had asked him to distract her from the bitterness of the medicine by talking.


    ¡°Chat about what?¡± Qiao Xiaomai asked weakly.


    ¡°Um¡­¡± A look of thoughtfulness spread across Qiao Dami¡¯s face. After a moment, he asked, ¡°Sister, Brother Tong was the one who carried you back just now. Was itfortable in his arms?¡±


    ¡°Pft!¡± Qiao Xiaomai spat out her drink.


    Her hand shook, almost spilling the medicine from the bowl onto her bed.


    ¡°Oh, Sister, where¡¯s your handkerchief? Wipe your mouth quickly.¡± Qiao Dami, not understanding why, saw traces of medicine at the corner of Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s mouth and on her chin and quickly reminded her.


    Qiao Xiaomai raised her hand, wiped her mouth with her sleeve offhandedly, reved her eyes and said, ¡°Young man, go help Dad with the cooking.¡±


    ¡°But Brother Tong asked me to chat with Sister. He said that by talking, you won¡¯t feel the bitterness of the medicine.¡± Qiao Dami exined with his innocent eyes wide open.


    Qiao Xiaomai raised an eyebrow, ¡°What else did he say?¡±


    ¡°He didn¡¯t say anything else, just asked me to listen to Sister.¡±


    ¡°Then I¡¯m telling you now to go help Dad with cooking. Will you go?¡±


    Qiao Dami blinked his shiny big eyes, a bewildered look on his small face, ¡°Sister, you haven¡¯t answered my question just now. Answer me and then I¡¯ll go-¡±


    Very rarely did Qiao Changshun, Zhuang Luhe, or Qiao Xiaomai hold him tightly. Thus, he was intrigued and unfamiliar with the concept of being held.


    Yet now, along came Tong Sang, who had picked him up several times.


    Being held by Brother Tong, he could see things higher and further!


    Plus, Brother Tong¡¯s arm was always supporting him, so even if he wriggled about, he wouldn¡¯t fall down!


    So at this moment, he couldn¡¯t wait to share with Qiao Xiaomai just howfortable it was to be held by Brother Tong.


    Qiao Dami¡¯s thoughts were simple, but Qiao Xiaomai felt like rolling her eyes at his question.


    Comfortable in his arms?


    She had closed her eyes and felt dizzy during the journey, and all her energy was spent fighting off her cramps. She barely noticed these trivial details!


    As for Qiao Dami asking if she found Tong Sang¡¯s embracefortable, she had three words to offer: No feeling!

 Chapter 154 - 154: Brother Tong sent this for you

    Chapter 154: Brother Tong sent this for you


    Trantor: 549690339


    No feeling at all?


    Qiao Dami doesn¡¯t believe it, ¡°Wow, how could you not feel anything from Brother Tong¡¯s cozy embrace? When his arms hold me, they are so strong.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai, ¡°¡­You better go help dad cook!¡±


    Discussing this topic with Dami is so strange!


    Qiao Dami acknowledged with a sound, reluctantly walked away. All, how disappointing, she just wanted to talk to her sister about Brother Tong¡¯s hug, yet her sister would not entertain her.


    Qiao Dami walked away, Xiaomai speechlessly continued drinking her medicine. Fortunately, the medicine cooled down a bit. She held her breath, closed her eyes to withstand the slightly hot temperature, and finished the bowl of medicine in one gulp.


    After that, she hastily grabbed a handful of milk candies from the space, the sweet and rich milk vor reced the bitterness in her mouth. She put the water bag on her lower abdomen,y down on the bed and thought about what just happened.


    She initially wanted Tong Tiehu to help promote bean sprouts. However, this n was neglected in the end.


    Besides, most importantly, Qiao Changshun was making tofu skin earlier. The soy milk was being boiled in the pot, and the ropes in the courtyard were hanging half-dried and freshly out of the pot tofu skins. Tong Sang had eaten tofu skin. With his smartness, he should have understood how tofu skin was made at this point.


    Thinking about this possibility, Xiaomai raised her hand annoyedly and patted it on the bed, what could she do!


    This is her current biggest money-maker!


    The damn period interrupted her ns. How annoying!


    In pain, she rolled on the bed, lifted her hand and hugged the pillow into her arms, rubbing and kneading it vigorously.


    At this moment, she even forgot about her abdominal pain and just focused on her annoyance.


    Therefore, the pillow in her hands was torn into strips of cloth under her vigorous kneading.


    She stared at the strips of cloth for a while, put her hand up and collected them into the space. She then let out a long sigh, powerless, and fell onto the bed, her limbs spread out in a big character.


    Would Tong Sang make tofu skin?


    Would this handsome-looking boy do such a despicable thing?


    Should she take the initiative and make it clear to him and give him some of the profits?


    Uncertain about her decision, Qiao Xiaomai sighed in frustration, wondering how good Tong Sang really was.


    While she was being indecisive, Qiao Dami ran over. He was even holding a wooden basin filled with hot water, ¡°Sister, the food is ready. It¡¯s time to eat. Wash your hands!¡±


    ¡°What a good boy!¡± Xiaomai put away her annoyance and smiled in praise.


    Qiao Changshun made a very simple lunch, warmed up the steamed buns, stir-fried bean sprouts, and cooked rice porridge.


    After the meal, Qiao Changshun, with a look of guilt on his face, came to see Xiaomai after washing the pots and bowls, ¡°I¡¯ve let you down. How about I cook you chicken soup tonight to make it up to you?¡±


    ¡°No need.¡±


    Considering Qiao Changshun¡¯s cooking skills, even if he made it, she wouldn¡¯t want to drink it.


    Just as Changshun was about to say something, a knocking sound came from the door, ¡°Uncle Changshun, is Xiaomai at home?¡±


    It was an unfamiliar female voice.


    Both Qiao Changshun and Xiaomai were surprised, who woulde at this time?


    Qiao Changshun was about to go open the door when Xiaomai hurriedly stopped him, ¡°Dad, cover the soy milk in the pot and collect the tofu skin outside as much as possible.¡±


    Changshunplied and quickly followed her instructions.


    The pot of soy milk was covered, the half-dried tofu skin was all collected into his room, and the newly out tofu skin was all covered with a clean cloth.


    After making sure nothing was left out, he went to open the door.


    There stood a girl around fourteen or fifteen years old outside the door. She had a round face, slightly dark skin, but her features were pretty. She was looking at him with a grin.


    Qiao Changshun looked surprised and uncertainly said, ¡°Are you the second daughter of the Gao Haisheng¡¯s family?¡±


    There are thousands of people in Anping Vige. Since his house is located on the west side and a bit remote, he was not sure to identify this girl he had never met before who was standing at his door.


    ¡°Yes, it¡¯s me, my name is Xiaomei, I¡¯m here to visit Xiaomai.¡± Gao Xiaomei nodded.


    ¡°Oh, oh, oh,e in, Xiaomai is inside the house,¡± Changshun stepped aside.


    Gao Xiaomei entered and went straight to the three-room hall.


    Inside the room, Qiao Dami was leaning on the edge of the bed, Xiaomai was sitting on the bed. The siblings both looked at Gao Xiaomei with surprise.


    Qiao Dami didn¡¯t recognize Gao Xiaomei, Xiaomai did, but they had never talked.


    Just as they were wondering about Gao Xiaomei¡¯s purpose, Gao Xiaomeifortably sat down on the side of the bed and said, ¡°Xiaomai, I heard you were not feeling well, so 1 came to see you.¡±


    Xiaomai squeezed out a smile, but she was even more puzzled inside. The original owner had never spoken to this girl before¡­


    ¡°Dami, you should go out first, 1 want to have a chat with your sister.¡± Gao Xiaomei looked at Dami and said, acting as if she owned the ce.


    Dami looked at Xiaomai, Xiaomai nodded, so he stood up and ran out, even thoughtfully closing the door.


    As soon as he left, Gao Xiaomei reached into her bosom and said in a low voice, ¡°Xiaomai, it was Brother Tong who asked me toe here. He asked me to give this to you.¡±


    Alongside these words, she took out two neatly folded menstrual pads from her bosom.


    Xiaomai¡±¡­.¡±

 Chapter 155 - 155: Why Did Tong Sanlang Send You?

    Chapter 155: Why Did Tong Sang Send You?


    Trantor: 549690339


    A menstrual pad is something that can be worn and reused repeatedly. The poor fill it with ashes and herbs, while the rich fill it with silk. Just wash it after use, dry it, and it¡¯s ready for next time.


    Since it is used for something so personal, even the poor would make it out of silk.


    The ones that Gao Xiaomei now holds out are pink and red, beautifully embroidered with plum blossoms.


    However, Qiao Xiaomai pursed her lips, and asked, ¡°What does this¡­how does this rte to Brother Tong?¡±


    In the modern world, a guy buying sanitary pads for a girl is, well, slightly embarrassing. How did Tong Tiehue up with this concept?


    And to have a girl who is practically a stranger deliver them to her?


    Could it be he¡¯s interested in her?


    Holy crap!


    Various emotions shed in Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s peach blossom eyes. She clenched her fists, but Gao Xiaomei didn¡¯t seem to notice, exining, ¡°WelL.this is your first time, Brother Tong thought you wouldn¡¯t have any experience, so he sought me out.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Qiao Xiaomai pursed her lips even tighter.


    Right, Zhuang Luhe had walked out with a man, and Tong Tiehu didn¡¯t know she had changed her pad. That¡¯s why he asked me to exin this to you.


    However, she was not quite satisfied, ¡°Are you saying¡­he went to you?¡±


    ¡°No, no, no. He went to my brother. I fainted from the pain during my first time, and he was at my house when it happened. Today you also experienced this, so he asked my brother to have me teach you about this stuff.¡±


    ¡°I thought you wouldn¡¯t have any experience, so I brought two menstrual pads for you. Don¡¯t worry, these are unused, I haven¡¯t used them yet.¡±


    With that, Gao Xiaomei held out the pads to Qiao Xiaomai, ¡°Take these, what are you using down there now? You didn¡¯t just stuff some random cloth in there, did you? You know you can¡¯t¡­¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai twitched the corner of her mouth, interrupting her quickly, ¡°I¡¯m using what my mother sewed for me, thank you.¡±


    This Tong Tiehu, bumping into this situation twice, heh.


    ¡°You have some?¡± Gao Xiaomei was surprised for a moment, then looked at Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s face and didn¡¯t see any difort. She gave a light cough, ¡°Do you know what to pay attention to during these days?¡±


    ¡°Yes, I do.¡± Qiao Xiaomai kept nodding.


    ¡°That¡¯s good then, Brother Tong was worried for nothing.¡±


    ¡°Sorry for bothering you with this. I feel a bit embarrassed.¡± Qiao Xiaomai felt guilty. Gao Xiaomei was undoubtedly well-meaning and their two homes were quite far apart. She must be tired after making this trip.


    It was all because of that nosy Tong Tiehu!


    ¡°It¡¯s alright, we¡¯re from the same vige.¡± Gao Xiaomei waved her hand and the smile returned to her round face. After discussing the business, she started gossiping, ¡°Xiaomai, what rtionship do you and Brother Tong have? I¡¯ve never seen him care for a girl so much.¡±


    When her brother, Gao Xiaoshan, told her about this, she waspletely shocked.


    In fact, there were no rumors about Qiao Xiaomai and Tong Tiehu in the vige. On one hand, Tong Tiehu was there, nobody dared to fabricate stories about him.


    On the other hand, the Qiao and Tong family situations were vastly different.


    In the countryside, girlse of age at fifteen and are usually engaged around thirteen or fourteen. Even if they aren¡¯t engaged, suitable matches are chosen, and they can be married once they reach age. Qiao Xiaomai inherited Zhuang Luhe¡¯s beauty and was about to turn fifteen, but aside from the Jiang Family proposing marriage once, no other matchmaker hade to her door.


    The reason was simple: nobody could take care of Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s family..

 Chapter 156 - 156:1 Have No Connection with Him

    Chapter 156:1 Have No Connection with Him


    Trantor: 549690339


    Under the oppression of the Sun Family for more than a decade, they had been living in extreme poverty, often not having enough to eat, let alone enough to umte any possessions. If Tong Tiehu were to marry Qiao Xiaomai, who knows if the Sun Family would extend their bullying to their household too?


    It was one thing to observe the Sun Family¡¯s shenanigans from afar, but quite another to be a part of their family through marriage. Not many people were willing to take that risk.


    Moreover, afterst year¡¯s incident where the Sun Family publicly dered that Zhuang Luhe would get hereuppance for her unfilial actions, and then Qiao Changshun ended up really breaking his leg, those who did have an interest in Qiao Xiaomai withdrew their marital considerations one after another.


    On the other hand, Tong Sang, a famously handsome young man, was well-off, with his family owning a shop in town and a hundred acres of farnd. With such good conditions, he was more than capable of marrying a girl from town.


    One was stuck in the mire, and the other was a radiantly shining moon admired by the surrounding viges. No one, apart from the delusional Zhu Cuiying of the Qiao Family, would ever think of linking Qiao Xiaomai and Tong Sang together.


    However, now that Tong Sang had shown such concern for Qiao Xiaomai, Gao Xiaomei naturally couldn¡¯t resist probing into the gossip.


    A twitch appeared at the corner of Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s mouth, ¡°I have nothing to do with him.¡±


    ¡°Howe he¡¯s so good to you then?¡± Gao Xiaomei clearly didn¡¯t believe her, ¡°Tong Sang¡¯s aloofness is famous. So many vige girls have tried to gift him things, but he never epted any.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomaiughed dryly. ¡°1 really have nothing to do with him.¡±


    Seeing that Qiao Xiaomai was not lying, Gao Xiaomei¡¯s eyes twinkled. She chuckled and suggested, ¡°So it means that he has taken a shining to you now?¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai responded with a tight-lipped smile, staying silent.


    The Tong Family had been silent in the face of the Sun family¡¯s years of bullying. But now after her sudden appearance, both Tong Tiehu and Tong Sang were exceedingly kind. Who knew what Tong Sang was up to now? ¡°Oh my, are you shy?¡± Noticing that Qiao Xiaomai was just quietly smiling, Gao Xiaomei teasingly asked.


    Qiao Xiaomai, ¡°¡­.I¡¯m not shy.¡±


    She spoke sincerely, but Gao Xiaomei misunderstood her words to be borne out of worry about the disparity between the Qiao and Tong families. Thus, Gao Xiaomei immediatelyforted her, ¡°You don¡¯t need to worry. If Tong Sang really likes you, everything will be fine. His grandfather¡¯s favorite grandson is Tong Sang. As long as he insists, his grandfather will definitely agree in the end.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai,


    She really hated whenever someone brought up the topic of marriage. However, considering the special monthly supplies brought by Gao Xiaomei, this time, she endured it.


    Suppressing the urge to walk away, she put on a solemn expression, ¡°I don¡¯t like him.¡±


    When she said this, Gao Xiaomei eximed in a lower voice, ¡°Why not?! Tong Sang is a catch in the eyes of all the unmarried girls for miles around. They¡¯ve all tried to get his attention but can¡¯t!¡±


    ¡°If I say I don¡¯t like him, then I don¡¯t.¡± Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s soft eyebrows were furrowed together.


    ¡°Oh my gosh, you actually don¡¯t like such an outstanding person as Tong Sang!¡± Gao Xiaomei couldn¡¯t help but exim.


    The hand Qiao Xiaomai kept hidden under her nket came out again, crushing a pillow that had already been reduced to tattered cloth. She tried to keep her face as cool as possible and asked in return, ¡°Then do you like him?¡±


    ¡°I already have Brother Aniu.¡± Gao Xiaomei giggled.


    Her engagement was set in cest year with ad from a neighboring vige, with the marriage set to take ce after this year¡¯s New Year¡¯s celebrations.


    If she weren¡¯t engaged, chances are she might like Tong Sang too.


    However, now was not the time to talk about Brother Aniu. It was rare for Tong Sang to have feelings for a girl, and this girl didn¡¯t like him. She had to get to the bottom of this.


    ¡°So, what kind of person do you fancy?¡± she asked..

 Chapter 157 - 157: She Must Be Shy

    Chapter 157: She Must Be Shy


    Trantor: 549690339


    ¡°I don¡¯t care for anything right now other than making money,¡± replied Qiao Xiaomai.


    She meant every word.


    Any man, regardless of what he¡¯s like, she just isn¡¯t interested in.


    In her former life, she had a boyfriend who was her college ssmate.


    Although he came from a humble family, he treated her exceptionally well, so much so that she entirely trusted him. With her birth mother¡¯s death and her father¡¯s indifferencebined with her stepmother¡¯s maniptions, she naturally fell for him.


    Though studying at university, she was ready to marry the man. She even bought a new house.


    But then, she discovered that the man was intentionally approaching her on the orders of her stepmother. In the new house she had painstakingly decorated, she first bore witness to her boyfriend¡¯s infidelity and was then nearly raped by a thug hired by her stepmother.


    During her struggle with the thug, she suddenly developed a superpower of immense strength.


    She nearly killed the thug and the cheating couple, yet, although it was satisfying to take revenge, it also left a deep scar on her heart: a nausea for men and a loathing for marriage.


    The revulsion for men she could hide on ordinary days, making it imperceptible to others.


    However, her aversion to marriage was her Achilles heel, absolutely not to be mentioned, if it was brought up, her cheerful mood could instantly turn cold as winter.


    So, at this moment, facing Gao Xiaomei¡¯s probing questions, she used a lot of effort to maintain her facial expression. ¡°Xiaomei, Third brother Tong may be good, but I and he can never happen. 1 don¡¯t like him, and he probably also doesn¡¯t like me.¡±


    ¡°Uh¡­,¡± Seeing that Qiao Xiaomai was not shy, and even seemed a bit irate, Gao Xiaomei put away her gossiping intentions and quickly nodded. ¡°Alright, 1 won¡¯t mention it again.¡±


    ¡°Thank you foring over.¡± Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s hand hidden under the nket squeezed a piece of cloth, and she managed to squeeze out a smile on her face. ¡°I don¡¯t have much to offer at my house. I¡¯ll give you some bean sprouts as a thank you gift. Don¡¯t mind if it¡¯s not much.¡±


    With that, Qiao Xiaomai called out loudly, ¡°Dami,e in.¡±


    Qiao Dami had been sitting by the stove boiling bean dregs for the chickens. Hearing the call, she rushed into the room, ¡°Sister, what¡¯s up?¡±


    ¡°Pack some bean sprouts for your sister Xiaomei,¡± ordered Qiao Xiaomai.


    ¡°Alright!¡± Qiao Damiplied and ran out to get a basket.


    Gao Xiaomei shook her hands in refusal, ¡°No need, no need, you rest up. I¡¯ll be leaving now.¡±


    She folded the menstrual cloths and tucked them into her chest, preparing to stand up.


    Qiao Xiaomai quickly reached out to stop her, ¡°You¡¯vee a long way and it¡¯s not easy. Take these bean sprouts, I¡¯ll feel ufortable if you don¡¯t.¡±


    ¡°Uh¡­¡±


    ¡°You can alsoe visit me when you have free time,¡± Qiao Xiaomai added.


    Although Anping Vige was populous, she had no good friends.


    From what she gathered, Gao Xiaomei seemed okay, and it would be nice to get to know her better.


    Gao Xiaomei nodded, ¡°Alright, 1¡¯11e to y with you in the future.¡±


    Did Qiao Xiaomai say she didn¡¯t like Third Brother Tong because of what happened earlier, making her feel embarrassed?


    Considering this, Gao Xiaomei decided to interact more with Qiao Xiaomai. It was rare that Third Brother Tong had feelings for a girl, she needed to do some matchmaking.


    Carrying a basket of bean sprouts, Gao Xiaomei returned home.


    Her house was very close to the Tong family. When she arrived home, Third Brother Tong was still at her ce.


    It was mid-afternoon, her parents were out working in the fields and her brother Gao Xiaoshan and Third Brother Tong were using a clump of washed hemp rope to weave a fishing.


    Seeing here back, Third Brother Tong stopped what he was doing, ¡°You¡¯re back?¡±

 Chapter 158 - 158: She Doesn’t Like Me

    Chapter 158: She Doesn¡¯t Like Me


    Trantor: 549690339


    ¡°I¡¯m back, Third Brother. Don¡¯t worry, her mother has everything prepared for her. When 1 left, herplexion seemed a little pale, but there were no other issues.¡± Gao Xiaomei said as she set down the basket in her hands and took a seat on a stool.


    Tong Sang hummed in response, a flicker of annoyance crossing his face.


    Indeed, Zhuang Luhe hadn¡¯t been away for many years. Qiao Xiaomai was a young woman now, and it was only natural that Zhuang Luhe would discuss such matters with her.


    Plus, even without Zhuang Luhe, Qiao Xiaomai herself would surely have some knowledge of this matter.


    He realized he had overestimated Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s capabilities. Having witnessed her weak and helpless state, he had perceived her as a fragile creature in need of support.


    Consequently, he went to ask Gao Xiaomei to check up on her.


    Qiao Xiaomai, despite her weaknesses, was surely capable of coping with her menstrual cycle. He hadn¡¯t drunk the Love Potion today, so why was his mind in a constant fog?


    His internal vexation surged wave upon wave while he maintained an impassive exterior. His gaze fell on the basket next to Gao Xiaomei as he remarked, ¡°The bean sprouts taste good.¡±


    ¡°So Xiaomai told you.¡± Gao Xiaomei giggled as she peered at Tong Sang, speaking gossipy tones, ¡°Third Brother, this is the first time I¡¯ve seen you showing so much concern for a girl.¡±


    Earlier, her brother, Gao Xiaoshan, had hurriedly dispatched her with menstrual pads, leaving no time for her to make fun of Tong Sang. Now that she was back, she nned to probe princely.


    Tong Sang remained unperturbed, continuing his task while nonchntly responding, ¡°So?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m just curious!¡± Gao Xiaomei dered, pping her thigh, ¡°After all, you¡¯ve gotten on in age. If you don¡¯t settle down soon, you will be old. Xiaomai is not bad, in my eyes. If you have genuine feelings for her, 1 can help you propose a marriage.¡±


    Her brother, a year younger than Tong Sang, had his marriage arranged early and was to wed after the wheat harvest. For a seventeen-year-old not engaged yet, he was indeed getting long in the tooth.


    ¡°No need.¡± Tong Sang refused.


    His mind felt seriously out of whack today. He needed to pull himself together and take some time to reflect.


    Even if he decided what his feelings were, considering Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s unreadable strength, he wouldn¡¯t dare to casually propose.


    He had a heavy responsibility to bear. His matrimonial decisions needed careful consideration.


    ¡°You really don¡¯t need my help?¡±


    ¡°No, I don¡¯t.¡±


    Gao Xiaomei clicked her tongue, ¡°But Xiaomai told me earlier that she doesn¡¯t like you.¡±


    Tong Sang¡±¡­¡±


    There was a momentary stiffness in his handsome face.


    The usually silent Gao Xiaoshan suddenly chuckled, ¡°Well, well, there¡¯s a girl in our vige who doesn¡¯t like you, Third Brother.¡±


    With an expressionless face, Tong Sang nced at him and continued his work, ¡°I¡¯m not made of gold or silver. Who said everyone should like me?¡± ¡°Oh, this sounds a bit resentful. Xiaomai said that she was only interested in earning money, and didn¡¯t want to think about anything else. If you were gold or silver, she would surely like you.¡± Gao Xiaomei yfully pped her thigh again.


    Upon hearing this, Tong Sang¡¯s long eyshes quivered slightly.


    Could that be it?


    Actually, he had a lot of silver¡­


    Realizing his thoughts were taking a dangerous turn, he frowned. Where on earth were his thoughts wandering today?


    Why does he keep having these strange thoughts?


    Could it be that some sort of enchanting spell had been cast on Qiao Xiaomai, causing his mind to be in disarray?


    Hmm¡­


    It could also be that he had never been so close to a girl before. Therefore, after holding Qiao Xiaomai earlier today, his mind was all over the ce.


    Recalling the lingering scent on his nose, Tong Sang reaffirmed his idea. Yes, it must be that. A few days of rest would surely do him good.


    However, Qiao Xiaomai didn¡¯t like him. She didn¡¯t like him!


    It was reasonable to assume that Qiao Xiaomai didn¡¯t like him after she had changed her inner core, but why did he feel odd when he heard Gao Xiaomei say it out loud?

 Chapter 159 - 159 He is not rustic at all

    Chapter 159: He is not rustic at all


    Trantor: 549690339


    For a moment, Tong Sang felt like he was simple and unrefined again.


    Based on the meals and skills Qiao Xiaomai demonstrated, she muste from a world better than this one.


    From a better world, that indicates she has met better people.


    He¡¯s just ad from a insignificant rural vige, how could hepare with the people she¡¯s seen before?


    Realizing this fact made Tong Sang feel even more dejected.


    Actually, Qiao Xiaomai doesn¡¯t know him well yet, but once she does, she¡¯ll realize that he¡¯s not simple, not simple at all.


    He¡¯s read extensively; whether it¡¯s orthodox Confucianism, or other schools of thought, including numerous heterodox, he¡¯s dabbled in everything.


    He can fence, box, y chess, paint, and practice calligraphy.


    As for his face, it would even stand out in Capital City.


    He also possesses immense wealth ¨C in fact, a fortune is not enough to describe his affluence.


    Although he may not be able topare with the people from Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s previous world, he still has a lot of room for growth.


    Speaking seriously, he really isn¡¯t simple¡­


    But the thing is, Qiao Xiaomai doesn¡¯t know any of this!


    His eyebrows furrowed slightly, and this feeling of dejection continued as Tong Sang carried his fishing back home.


    The fishing was just over three meters long, intended for use in the vige stream. Anping Vige was far from thekes and seas, and no one in the vige knew how to make such a. It was something he¡¯d seen on his way to Capital City, so he and Gao Xiaoshan were trying to make it for fun.


    Given the size of the tiny fish in the vige stream, this was basically a toy.


    Remembering the fried river snails Qiao Xiaomai had brought him the first time, he picked up his and went to the riverside.


    His grandfather also loved to eat them, so he would catch some to keep at home. Once Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s period was over, he would ask her to make some more.


    As for the bean sprouts, Qiao Xiaomai was currently bedridden, and the courtyard was being used to dry tofu skin, so it was inconvenient with peopleing and going.


    Right, the bean sprouts can wait for now.


    Fully satisfied with his decision, Tong Sang took his to the river. He¡¯s quite skilled, and instead of catching fish using Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s space, he jumped directly into the river, spreading out the fishing and moving around in the water.


    Half an hourter, he returned home with the fishing carrying over ten pounds of small fish and river snails.


    After removing his dripping wet shirt and changing into clean clothes, he stored away the small fish and river snails. He then took off his clothes to wash.


    The stain on his clothes remained. He¡¯d worn these blood-stained clothes to visit the Gao family, then to the river, and now, he was finally going to wash them.


    With a secret sigh, he ced his clothes in the wooden basin to wash.


    He decided to leave his tangled thoughts forter.


    Qiao¡¯s Family.


    After Gao Xiaomei left, Qiao Xiaomai gathered up the cloth strips and powder from her quilt into her space. Then, shey down on her bed in spread-eagle position again, her face full of worry.


    She had pushed Tong Sang¡¯s matter to the back of her mind. Regardless of what Tong Sang was nning, she didn¡¯t have feelings for him anyway.


    What she was worried about now was sanitary napkins.


    Although she had stored dozens of packs in her space, they would surely run out eventually. When that timees, would she have to sew some kind of menstrual band?


    No, these things seemed more like lingerie in her eyes.


    And they were filled with ash from nts and trees. Even though she knew the ash was clean, she just couldn¡¯t get past this mentally.


    Moreover, these things were reusable. Having gotten used to disposable ones, she really couldn¡¯t stand the idea of using something over and over again.


    What should she do?

 Chapter 160 - 160: This face in front of me, it’s really beautiful

    Chapter 160: This face in front of me, it¡¯s really beautiful


    Trantor: 549690339


    After much consideration, Qiao Xiaomai resigned herself with a sigh. She couldn¡¯t change the papermaking technique, nor could she produce soft toilet paper.


    There was no cotton here, she couldn¡¯t stuff cotton into her menstrual pads.


    Then she was left with only one option: to make money, to stuff silk into her menstrual pads.


    Moreover, these menstrual pads were all disposable.


    Thinking about the price of silk, Qiao Xiaomai couldn¡¯t help but rollover in her bed. Damn, being a woman is really troublesome!


    After lying in bed for half a day, pondering, and drinking some medicine at night, her stomach pain finally eased to a tolerable range.


    It wasn¡¯tpletely gone, but it didn¡¯t stop her from working.


    After having breakfast, Qiao Changshun drove the donkey cart out to the fields. He went to check the growth of the wheat and to cut some green grass for his donkey. Qiao Dami was boiling soybean residue to feed the chickens.


    She got out of bed and was about to wash the bloodstained clothes from yesterday when Dami ran over and said, ¡°Sister, let me wash it for you!¡±


    ¡°No need, I¡¯ll boil some hot water and wash it myself.¡± Qiao Xiaomai quickly shook her head. This kind of clothes couldn¡¯t be given to a child to wash, ¡°You continue boiling the soybean residue.¡±


    Qiao Dami couldn¡¯t win against her, so he had to continue with his task.


    Qiao Xiaomai drew water, boiled it, and washed clothes.


    Qiao Dami fed chickens and cleaned the courtyard.


    By mid-morning, the siblings finished their chores. Qiao Xiaomai was about to go up the mountain to gather firewood and destroy her used sanitary pads when she heard a knock on the door.


    ¡°Who is it?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s me.¡± The reply was steady and strong, in a familiar male voice. It was Tong Sang.


    Qiao Xiaomai blinked. She had the urge to hide herself away, but thinking about yesterday¡¯s doubts, she stayed put and signaled Dami to open the door.


    Even though it would be awkward to see Tong Sang, she truly needed to figure out whether the tofu making method had been leaked. Whenpared to silver, a little embarrassment is nothing.


    Qiao Dami ran towards the door. A big grin illuminating his little face. Brother Tong is here!


    The door opened. Tong Sang entered, his back carrying a basket with a pig¡¯s heart and a y pot as well as holding another y pot in his arms.


    They were the same pots that Qiao Xiaomai had served him meat in.


    One pot held sheep¡¯s milk, the other held small fish and snails he had caught yesterday.


    He had caught over ten pounds of fish yesterday. His family hadn¡¯t finished it, so he brought the leftovers over.


    As for the snails, he caught a lot of them, intending for Qiao Xiaomai to eat them.


    He thought about letting things happen naturally yesterday, but he couldn¡¯t concentrate on his studies all afternoon. So, after waking up, he ran to the town to buy a pig¡¯s heart. It is said that it¡¯s beneficial for girls to eat it during menstruation, so he brought these things over under the excuse of returning the y pots.


    Moreover, besides returning the pots, he had a very legitimate reason, ¡°Miss Qiao, Thank you for the bean sprouts yesterday.¡±


    As he spoke, he looked straight at Qiao Xiaomai, his handsome face serene, his eyes unflinching as if nothing had happened yesterday.


    Qiao Xiaomai, with her watery peach blossom eyes, returned his gaze.


    This was the first time she had really taken a good look at Tong Sang. The former host always lowered her head and hadn¡¯t paid much attention to him. After she took over, she avoided looking at him because she felt embarrassed about being entangled with the Sun Family.


    Now, with her arms crossed in front of her chest and a scrutinizing look in her eyes, she took her time to observe the face in front of her.


    Even though she had seen countless celebrities in her past life, she had to admit, the face in front of her was extraordinarily handsome..

 Chapter 161 - 161: Making Things Clear

    Chapter 161: Making Things Clear


    Trantor: 549690339


    No matter if his features are examined individually or collectively, they are utterly perfect, but the most striking part of him are his eyes. Neither toorge nor too small, they did not possess the seductive allure of phoenix or peach blossom eyes, but the pupils were ck and, under the March sunlight his eyes held her reflection within them.


    This pair of eyes were crystal clear; they held no traces of insidiousness.


    Added to his tall and straight physique, even coarse hemp clothing couldn¡¯t undermine his distinctive charm.


    He really didn¡¯t strike her as someone who would sell forms illicitly.


    However, this was just Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s personal judgment. In this day and age, outward appearances mean little. Often, beneath the facade of humanity, lurk those who wouldmit monstrous deeds. After all, the heart is hidden behind a wall of flesh, who could really perceive the thoughts of another?


    With a slight raise of her eyebrows, Qiao Xiaomai opened her mouth to speak, ¡°It¡¯s just some bean sprouts, Brother Tong, your gift is too generous.¡±


    ¡°Not at all. The small river fish and snails were caught from the river, the sheep¡¯s milkes from my own sheep, and while the pig¡¯s heart was bought, they¡¯ll serve it at grandfather¡¯s birthday banquet. So, you could consider this as early practice,¡± Tong Tiehu exined reasonably.


    Qiao Xiaomai curved her lips into a smile thatcked sincerity, ¡°Then, 1 thank you, Brother Tong.¡±


    ¡°No need. However, about your suggestion yesterday, asking my grandfather to help promote your bean sprouts, I¡¯m afraid it won¡¯t work these few days,¡± Tong Tiehu began.


    ¡°Why?¡± Qiao Xiaomai asked.


    Tong Tiehu gestured towards the tofu skin drying in the courtyard, ¡°With this over here, are you sure you still want to sell bean sprouts?¡±


    Hearing this, the smile on Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s face slightly receded.


    She hadn¡¯t brought it up yet, so why did Tong Tiehu take the initiative to mention it? What was he suggesting?


    Was this merely a candid observation, or was he attempting to ckmail her?


    ¡°What do you mean by that, Brother Tong?¡± she asked.


    ¡°I¡¯m just reminding you to concentrate on making tofu skin, lest someone else learns your technique. As for the bean sprouts, just send them to the two restaurants in town; you don¡¯t need to sell them in the vige. Shut your doors and focus on making tofu skin.¡±


    Tong Tiehu¡¯s gaze paused momentarily on Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s face. Seeing the smile receded and a trace of wariness flickering in her eyes, he couldn¡¯t help but add, ¡°Making tofu skin is quite simple; easy to learn just by observing. So Miss, you¡¯d better be cautious.¡±


    ¡°As for me, rest assured, I, Tong Tiehu, wouldn¡¯t ever stoop to such an action.¡±


    He may have voiced it this way, but he felt somewhat suffocated.


    Yesterday¡¯s bad feeling had not yet fully dissipated, now it was back again.


    Did he, Tong Tiehu, look like the kind of despicable person who would sell secrets?


    He always considered himself to be a person of integrity.


    Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s expression truly hurt him.


    Unaware of what Tong Tiehu was thinking, Qiao Xiaomai stared at him for a few moments.


    Should she trust Tong Tiehu¡¯s words?


    If she didn¡¯t believe him, she had no power to prevent his intended actions anyway.


    If she chose to believe him¡­


    Despite all the times Tong Tiehu and his grandfather had helped her, she had never really fully trusted them.


    She cast a friendly smile, dimples showing, ¡°I¡¯ve misunderstood you, Brother Tong.¡±


    Since Tong Tiehu was candid, all she could do was respond simrly.


    ¡°No worries, I understand. We also conduct business in our family; and are aware of the taboos in this area.¡± Despite feeling suffocated, Tong Tiehu managed not to reveal it on his face.


    ¡°However, it¡¯s my mistake. I owe you an apology. I hope you¡¯ll overlook it.¡± Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s smile on her face grew sweeter.


    ¡°No need,¡± Tong Tiehu shook his head.


    ¡°To make up for that, I¡¯ll make you some dessert,¡± Qiao Xiaomai offered, her gaze resting on the pot of sheep¡¯s milk..

 Chapter 162 - 162: Master of Ji Wei Residence

    Chapter 162: Master of Ji Wei Residence


    Trantor: 549690339


    ¡°No need, take a break these days,¡± Tong Sang quickly shook his head.


    The person who was weak yesterday was about to faint. Although he looks better now, it¡¯s still better to rest more during his period.


    ¡°But¡­¡± Qiao Xiaomai started to speak, Tong Sang hurriedly interrupted her, ¡°If you really feel guilty, make that elbows and Braised Pork again in a few days. I¡¯ll send the pork to you. Um¡­ and the periwinkles you sent for the first time.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai blinked, nodded and said, ¡°Okay.¡±


    What she was good at, was only cooking.


    ¡°Then, 1¡¯11 go first.¡± Having said what needed to be said, Tong Sang took another nce at Qiao Xiaomai, preparing to leave.


    Qiao Dami, who had been staying by the side in silence, was somewhat reluctant to let go, ¡°Brother Tong, call me and my sister next time you go fishing, my sister is very good at fishing.¡±


    Hearing this, Tong Sang involuntarily nced at Qiao Xiaomai and then asked with a smile, ¡°How good?¡±


    Qiao Dami immediately became excited, ¡°All the little fishes swimming by her were caught into the pottery jar, none of them could escape!¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai felt uneasy, rubbing her nose. She was cheating using the space¡­


    Tong Sang seemed to believe it and looked at Qiao Xiaomai with a smile, ¡°Let¡¯s go fishing together next time.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai looked into his eyes with clear pupils, ¡°Depends.¡±


    Her answer was perfunctory, hoping Tong Sang would understand her meaning.


    Tong Sangughed, his eyes slightly curved, he looked at Qiao Dami, ¡°Dami, remember to call me next time.¡±


    It didn¡¯t matter if Qiao Xiaomai resisted him, he could start with Qiao Dami.


    This little guy was naive and cute, diligent and well-behaved ¨C he liked her a lot.


    Qiao Dami did not disappoint his expectations and nodded vigorously, ¡°Okay!¡±


    Seeing this, Qiao Xiaomai chuckled twice.


    Tong Sang looked at her and smiled back, then left.


    As soon as he left, Qiao Xiaomai immediately pointed at the jar of small fish and said to Qiao Dami, ¡°Go, clean up these small fish, scale them, cut off their heads and go guts. 1¡¯11 fry them in oil when Ie back from the mountain.¡±


    Long fingered small fish, the most delicious when fried in oil.


    Qiao Dami responded. Carrying the pottery jar, she went to the well. Qiao Xiaomai locked the courtyard door and went up the mountain.


    Speaking of Tong Sang:


    When he got home, only Tong Tiehu was there. He couldn¡¯t help asking, ¡°Where are dad and mom?¡±


    ¡°They went to town, took ErLang¡¯s parents and your grandma with them.¡± Tong Tiehu was turning over the ount book in the courtyard, not even lifting his head as he replied.


    ¡°Is dad angry?¡± Tong Sang sat beside him.


    Tong Tiehu snorted and cursed, ¡°Undutiful bastard. He has beenining for years that I spent half of the silver from our storage, now seeing Xiaomai, he doesn¡¯t want to let her go. He¡¯s an idiot.¡±


    Children should not speak ill of their parents, Tong Sang¡¯s words fell silent.


    Tong Tiehu was upset. Just now, before Tong Xingda left, he had another quarrel with him. Faced with Tong Sang, he couldn¡¯t help but swear at the idiot, ¡°The business of Jimei Inn has improved a lot this month. Just because of the cold jelly noodles, the ie from all the twenty-plus stores came to over 20,000 taels. Plus with the Tofu and Bean Curd, although there ispetition from Zuixian Building, this month¡¯s total ie is more than 30,000 taels more thanst month.¡±


    ¡°He still has a big appetite, he wants to get his hands on Xiaomai. Do you know what he said? He said to marry Xiaomai first, and after everything is settled, you divorce her, and then marry a wife of matching social status.¡±


    ¡°Idiot! He¡¯s an idiot!¡±


    Tong Sang was stunned, at a loss for words.


    If he really dared to do this to Qiao Xiaomai with her abilities, she could probably pull out a dagger out of nowhere while he was sleeping and stab him hard..

 Chapter 163 - 163: We Overestimated Her

    Chapter 163: We Overestimated Her


    Trantor: 549690339


    Imagining the bloody, brutal scene, Tong Sang couldn¡¯t help but shudder.


    Indeed, with Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s temperament, which was so vtile that it disrupted Sun Junyan¡¯s studies, she would certainly do such a thing. She never lets herself be at a disadvantage.


    However, if he should truly marry Qiao Xiaomai, he would never abandon his wife for a nobledy.


    He, Tong Sang, was not that kind of beastly person.


    Huh?


    It seemed that he had also insulted his father through those words¡­


    He quickly coughed and discarded this thought from his mind. There wasn¡¯t even a hint of this bing a reality yet, he was thinking too much.


    Tong Tiehu¡¯s scolding still continued, ¡°A little belle from the countryside suddenly brings out so many new things, and he doesn¡¯t even suspect a thing, even rushing to marry her. How did I end up with such a fool as a son!¡±


    ¡°All he does is think about money, only earning, earning, earning. If it were not for me and your sixth grandfather holding him back, he¡¯d even want to defraud Jiwei Residence!¡±


    ¡°Hmm?¡± Tong Sang was unaware of this.


    Tong Tiehu hurled the ount book onto the table, cursing in frustration, ¡°The good food and drinks that Jiwei Residence uses every day, he thought about recing them with cheaper ones to save some silver!¡±


    Tong Sang was speechless¡­


    Jiwei Residence was known for pursuing the ultimate taste from exquisite ingredients. Yet in his desperation for profits, he was destroying his own business. He was ming Qiao Xiaomai for selling the recipes foolhardy¡­


    He pursed his lips and remained silent, reminding himself not to speak ill of his father.


    Although he kept silent, Tong Tiehu didn¡¯t hold back, ¡°He even dares to think about this, I really want to beat him to death! Has his brain been kicked by a donkey!¡±


    Tong Sang picked up the teapot on the table and filled a cup for him, ¡°Grandpa, take a sip of tea to moist your mouth. My father¡­¡± He hesitated, and then half-heartedly found an eptable reason for Tong Xingda¡¯s actions, ¡°He is also afraid of running out of silver.¡±


    ¡°Hmph! The money saved over the years is enough.¡± Tong Tiehu grumbled as he took a sip from the cup.


    ¡°Well, the more money, the better.¡±


    ¡°Do you think so too?¡± Tong Tiehu frowned, his gaze sharp.


    Tong Sang remained calm, ¡°No, actually I don¡¯t care. I listen to my grandfather. Whatever my grandfather asks me to do, I do it.¡±


    Tong Tiehu stared at him, his brows furrowing even more.


    He looked back quietly, his dark eyes filled with trust.


    Tong Tiehu held his gaze for a moment, then set down his teacup and gently stroked the ount book. His previously sharp gaze began to blur, his straight back hunched, looking somewhat dejected.


    Tong Sang observed him, thought for a moment, then directed the conversation towards something he was interested in, ¡°Actually, her abilities aren¡¯t mysterious at all. Yesterday she was unwell because of her period. She couldn¡¯t even handle such a small matter. Grandfather, are we overestimating her?¡±


    ¡°Hmm?¡± Tong Tiehu frowned, ¡°What did you say?¡±


    Tong Sang recounted the events of yesterday in detail and then said, ¡°If she truly has mysterious powers, why would she stay in this tiny Anping Vige? When Zhu Cuiying from the Sun Family and others went to pick a fight with her, why didn¡¯t she solve them on her own and instead came to ask you for help?¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s strength was incredible, this was beyond his understanding.


    Moreover, she was able to produce unknown precious swords and nts out of thin air, this was also beyond his understanding.


    So, at that time, he associated Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s abilities with voodoo..

 Chapter 164 - 164: She is not suitable for you

    Chapter 164: She is not suitable for you


    Trantor: 549690339


    Of course, judging from the fact that Qiao Xiaomai only fusses over fresh food, she is a living, breathing person, not a ghost or a monster.


    He thought she might possess ghostly abilities.


    So he¡¯s worried that she might interfere with his ns, worried that she might cause trouble.


    But now that he thinks about it, a person who merely fusses over food, can¡¯t handle her period, and can¡¯t deal with the best things in life, can she really possess the power of ghosts and gods?


    Isn¡¯t it possible that he and Tong Tiehu have been thinking too much?


    Tong Tiehu understood the meaning in Tong Sang¡¯s words, the confusion in his eyes disappeared, and he returned to his usual authoritative demeanor, his eyes glowing, ¡°Are you saying that she just happened to possess these two Divine Powers, and in every other way, she¡¯s like an ordinary person?¡±


    Tong Sang nodded, ¡°At least for now, I haven¡¯t discovered anything else remarkable about her.¡±


    Moreover, because of a little tofu skin, she suspected him of trying to steal the recipe, and was worried and anxious about a food recipe. Clearly, she is just an ordinary person.


    If she really possessed iprehensible supernatural abilities, then silver woulde to her with a wave of hand, is working so hard really necessary?


    ¡°So what?¡± Tong Tiehu asked.


    Tong Sang lowered his eyes, poured himself a cup of tea, and took a sip.


    So if Qiao Xiaomai is an ordinary person, then his father¡¯s words may actually be worth considering.


    Such as¡­


    Proposing marriage.


    ¡°Grandfather, I¡¯m already seventeen this year, have you thought about my marriage?¡± He asked in a low voice.


    Tong Tiehu,¡±¡­ You¡¯re not seriously interested in that girl, are you? You even don¡¯t understand her background or abilities.¡±


    His tone became unpleasant; just now, he had scolded Tong Xingda for this, and now Tong Sang has forgotten about it!


    ¡°It¡¯s not that I¡¯m smitten, I¡¯m just interested in her.¡±


    Initially, he considered Qiao Xiaomai a vige girl. Even though he held no superior feelings when facing her, deep down, he was sympathetic to her, and at the same time somewhat scornful, simr to the feeling of being disappointed in a promising individual.


    But now the core of Qiao Xiaomai has changed.


    Possessing magical abilities,ing from a world better than this, and meeting better people.


    So it makes him, a young man in a small mountain vige, look rustic.


    Moreover, she has clearly stated that she doesn¡¯t like him.


    She told Gao Xiaomei this yesterday, and today when she sees him, she actspletely fine and only focuses on whether he is trying to steal the tofu skin recipe.


    His heart is blocked!


    So blocked that from yesterday till now, she has been on his mind, and he couldn¡¯t concentrate on reading at all.


    He has experienced this for the first time in his 17 years of life.


    His father ns to let him dismiss Qiao Xiaomai as his wife and marry a nobledy of equal status, but how naive, Qiao Xiaomai doesn¡¯t treasure him at all.


    ¡°However, she personally told Xiaomei yesterday that she had no interest in me.¡± Tong Sang clicked his tongue.


    Tong Tiehu looked at him with a somewhatplicated expression, and snorted coldly, ¡°Silly boy, you better think about it. If you propose to her on a whim, and then lose interest in the future, you better be careful with your life.¡±


    Hearing this, Tong Sang put down the cup in his hand, raised his hand to touch his nose, ¡°That¡¯s why I haven¡¯t figured it out yet.¡±


    This is the first time he has encountered a girl for whom he has an interest, and she is such a girl whose details are unclear.


    He also has not figured out exactly what he is feeling.


    What he knows now is: he feels suffocated.


    But also concerned and worried.


    And he ns to keep in touch and create more opportunities for it.


    ¡°Stop thinking about it, 1 don¡¯t agree, her temper is too fiery, she¡¯s not right for you.¡± Tong Tiehu snorted again..

 Chapter 165 - 165: Marry Whoever You Should Marry

    Chapter 165: Marry Whoever You Should Marry


    Trantor: 549690339


    ¡°She may be headstrong, but her heart and character are upright, and that¡¯s enough. A wife should be virtuous, Grandfather, you should understand this principle better than me.¡± Tong Sang looked at Tong Tiehu with firmness in his voice.


    Headstrong?


    No, she only ever showed such a temperament when the Sun Family tried to provoke her. In her everyday actions and speech, there was no trace of recklessness.


    On the contrary, she disyed a lively character in her private life.


    The fact that she could still chase after butterflies while carrying a bundle of firewood showed she retained a positive and upbeat spirit.


    And observing her interactions with Qiao Changshun and Qiao Dami on regr days, she was gentle and virtuous.


    Strong when needed, interesting and lively in private, self-confident and calm in public, such a character is actually quite good.


    Why does everyone disdain her?


    The current situation clearly indicates that she is the one who disdains him.


    ¡°Grandfather, as far as the current situation is concerned, it¡¯s her who¡¯s not interested in me. But 1 am interested in her and n to interact with her more.¡± Before Tong Tiehu could speak, he interjected.


    Tong Tiehu frowned and nced at him sternly, ¡°You don¡¯t need to remind me. But how do you know that her heart and character are upright? It¡¯s only been a few days, you sure you understand her?¡±


    Tong Sang raised an eyebrow, ¡°Grandfather, from her current interactions with her family, and the business she does in town, 1 believe she embodies righteousness and integrity.¡±


    Jiwei Residence was his family¡¯s establishment. He often visited to check the ounts under the pretense of delivering game. The encounter with Qiao Xiaomai at the entrance of Jiwei Residence was purely idental, but since she was selling fresh food, he naturally suggested her to go to Jiwei Residence.


    He had initially thought that Qiao Xiaomai would be offering something ordinary, after all, Jiwei Residence and Zuixian Building represented the pinnacle of current culinary arts.


    Yet, what she presented were cold jelly noodles, a delicacy he had never seen before.


    Although he was present during the transaction, he did not get a chance to taste these two dishes. But the negotiation between Qiao Xiaomai and Shopkeeper He had left a profound impression on him, thus sparking his curiosity.


    He was also aware of the subsequent transactions between Qiao Xiaomai and Shopkeeper He. The 150 acres of farnd and three terraces far away from Anping Vige were arranged by him secretly. After so many encounters, he believed he had a good understanding of Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s personality.


    As long as he didn¡¯t provoke her, everything would be fine.


    What¡¯s wrong with being a bit headstrong? She¡¯s not like the Sun Family that causes unnecessary trouble.


    Being headstrong was a good thing. Unlike before when she was soft as a noodle that anyone could step on, he admired this strong character more now.


    ¡°What if she¡¯s pretending?¡± Tong Tiehu questioned.


    ¡°Then I¡¯ll keep observing.¡±


    Right now, Qiao Xiaomai did not think highly of him. But he intended to get closer to her, to determine whether his interest was genuine or just a fleeting inclination.


    He knew he could not be negligent about a lifetimemitment.


    Tong Tiehu expected this answer, so he snorted coldly, ¡°How do you n to observe and interact with her?¡±


    ¡°Through food.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t let it affect your studies, remember you have your autumn provincial examination today.¡± Tong Tiehu reminded him coldly.


    ¡°It won¡¯t.¡± Tong Sang answered confidently.


    With Sun Junyan¡¯s level, he could outmatch him a thousandfold.


    ¡°Are you nning to decide on your own marital affairs?¡± Tong Tiehu asked again.


    ¡°If Grandfather can find someone better than her for me, I will still follow my heart and marry the one I love.¡±


    Tong Tiehu

 Chapter 166 - 166 The Problem Arises

    Chapter 166: The Problem Arises


    Trantor: 549690339


    ¡°You just said you¡¯d do anything I asked you to,¡± Tong Tiehu sternly reminded.


    Tong Sang looked him straight in the eye, ¡°I wasn¡¯t referring to marriage, Grandpa, you knew that.¡±


    In the past, he spent his days engrossed in reading, practicing martial arts, running through the ount books at Jiwei Residence, and asionally following Tong Tiehu to the Capital City or other ces; his life was busy and fulfilling.


    Marriage was something he never considered.


    But now, Qiao Xiaomai had appeared, cloaked in the disguise of a country girl, while inside¡­


    He couldn¡¯t find the right words to describe Qiao Xiaomai right now.


    Even a nobledy from the households of distinguished officials in the Capital City couldn¡¯tpare to her mysterious allure.


    He could see through other girls at first nce, but Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s country girl¡¯s outfit obscured his vision.


    Because he couldn¡¯t see clearly, it was always on his mind.


    Hmm¡­


    Perhaps there was anotheryer ofpetitiveness at y: Qiao Xiaomai didn¡¯t think much of him, yet he insisted on lingering around her.


    In conclusion, he started caring about a matter of marriage he previously didn¡¯t care about.


    ¡°But if you¡¯re going to do that, then 1 must be the one to decide your marriage,¡± Tong Tiehu said.


    ¡°What do you propose, Grandpa? Would you choose a girl for me from the surrounding viges? Are you sure you can find one better than her?¡± Tong Sang calmly retorted.


    Tong Tiehu was rendered speechless.


    ¡°Or do you n to wait until my affair is settled, then choose a noble girl for me?¡± Tong Sang asked again, ¡°But when will it be settled? You¡¯ve been waiting a lifetime.¡±


    ¡°Given Daqi¡¯s current situation, who knows how many years or months we¡¯ll have to wait. Are you sure you want me to remain unmarried?¡±


    Tong Tiehu was again speechless.


    Gazing at Tong Sang¡¯s calm demeanor, he took a deep breath before picking up the ount books on the table and rolling them up, hurling them at Tong Sang, ¡°You little brat, always bringing up sore subjects, surely to jab at my heart?! Even your foolish father wasn¡¯t this disrespectful!¡±


    Tong Sang nimbly sidestepped, avoiding Tong Tiehu¡¯s attack. He stood a meter away, an innocent look on his face, ¡°Grandpa, what did I say that was wrong?¡±


    Such a simple phrase calmed Tong Tiehu¡¯s anger.


    Tong Tiehu looked taken aback, an air of defeat washing over him. After a while, he stood up from his chair and walked into the house.


    His hunched back looked rather lonely.


    Tong Sang pursed his lips slightly, regretting his words.


    Although everything he said was true, they were daggers to Tong Tiehu.


    In his current position, having worked a lifetime for an elusive goal, he now found his goal farther and farther away as he got older.


    After some thought, he went over to apologize.


    Hearing footsteps, Tong Tiehu said, ¡°Go back and read in your room, 1¡¯11 stay here alone for a while.¡±


    His hoarse voice revealed exhaustion and pain.


    Tong Sang stopped in his tracks and lowered his gaze.


    The mission Tong Tiehu could notplete eventually fell to him. He was already seventeen. It was time to seriously consider this matter.


    Qiao Family¡¯s house.


    Unaware of the secrets of Tong Family, Qiao Xiaomai went up the mountain to collect firewood, burned the sanitary napkins she had just changed, and then leisurely descended the mountain.


    After a lunch of sulent fried baby fish and pig heart soup, she took her medicine, then began making tofu skin.


    To make disposable sanitary napkins from silk, she had to earn money quickly.


    With such a serious issue rted to her personalfort at stake, Qiao Xiaomai ignored the slight difort of her period andbored with determination.


    During this time, neither Tong Sang nor Gao Xiaomei came to bother her. She enjoyed her freedom, hanging tofu skins all over her courtyard.


    Within a few short days, the Tomb-Sweeping Festival arrived..

 Chapter 167 - 167: Borrowing Money

    Chapter 167: Borrowing Money


    Trantor: 549690339


    Tomb-Sweeping Festival, a day to pay homage to ancestors.


    On Qiao Family¡¯s side, Qiao Qinghe and Sun Family are still in good health, but on Zhuang Luhe¡¯s maternal side, both of her parents are deceased, leaving only a stepmother and a half-brother, who is also Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s uncle.


    Neither family interacts much outside of holidays, but with the approach of Tomb-Sweeping Festival and ording to Zhuang Luhe¡¯s past routine, she would always return to her maternal home to pay respects to her biological parents.


    But now that she has run off and Qiao Changshun¡¯s leg is crippled, Qiao Xiaomai has decided not to return to her grandmother¡¯s home this Tomb-Sweeping Festival.


    Her step-grandmother, just like the Sun Family, is one of a kind too. Though her cheap uncle is pretty decent, it¡¯s better to keep Zhuang Luhe¡¯s disappearance a secret for as long as they can.


    After deciding, Qiao Xiaomai packed the tofu skins she made in these days into a hemp bag, loaded it onto the Donkey Cart, and then went to town with Qiao Changshun and Qiao Dami.


    Her menstruation had ended, and she was as lively and energetic as she used to be. On the way, seeing the edible fruits of elms on the roadside trees, she nned to pick some on her way back.


    Once she reached the town, she headed straight for the Zuixian Building.


    The shopkeeper Zhou saw her and asked with much concern. Qiao Xiaomai hadn¡¯t been there to collect chicken feet for several days, and he was worried if something had happened.


    ¡°Everything¡¯s okay,¡± Qiao Xiaomai shook her head, then dragged forward the bag behind her to change the topic. ¡°These are the tofu skins 1 made recently, thirty-six jin in total. You can weigh it.¡±


    ¡°No need, I trust you,¡± the shopkeeper Zhou picked up the bag.


    As a shopkeeper, his hand was the weighing scale. Whether it was ounces or dozens of jin, he could tell the weight just by feeling.


    Handing the bag to a waiter behind him, he said with a smile, ¡°There are sprouts in that basket, right?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°How much is there?¡±


    ¡°One hundred jin.¡± She had grown quite a bit of sprouts thesest few days.


    Thus, when she left Zuixian Building, Qiao Xiaomai received thirty-six taels of silver and two hundred copper coins, along with the chicken feet she had saved these days, which totalled over a thousand and nearly filled up the Donkey Cart.


    Besides, they delivered one hundred jin of sprouts to the Extreme vor Inn, then finally bought some pork and pastries. It was nearly noon when the family of three returned home.


    Without stopping, they took things to the Qiao Family¡¯s old yard. As it was the Tomb-Sweeping Festival, they needed to buy some stuff to show respect to Qiao Qinghe and Sun Family.


    When they arrived, the people in the old yard had just finished lunch. Zhu Cuiying was washing her hands beside the wooden basin at the door. Seeing the three of them, Zhu Cuiying instinctively wanted to put on a cold face but then thought of something. The gloom on her pockmarked face disappeared, reced with a great big smile.


    ¡°Oh, Xiaomai, you¡¯re here. Come in quickly. We just finished making rice. Let¡¯s eat together.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai and herpany were taken aback.


    Zhu Cuiying had already enthusiastically reached out to pull Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s arm, ¡°What are you standing there for? Come in.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai regained her senses and quickly stepped aside.


    ¡°No need.¡± She replied rather coldly.


    At this point, Qiao Qinghe heard the voices and came out of the hall. She looked at Qiao Qinghe and raised the meat and pastries in her hand, ¡°Grandpa!¡±


    Qiao Qinghe walked over quickly, ¡°You¡¯re here. Haven¡¯t eaten yet? Put things down and go home to cook.¡±


    He didn¡¯t offer them to stay for a meal but instead wanted to drive them away.


    Qiao Xiaomai was surprised, but his words suited her just fine. So, she cooperatively said, ¡°Alright.¡±


    She shoved the pork and pastries into Zhu Cuiying¡¯s arms, took Qiao Dami by the hand, and turned to leave.


    Are they just leaving like this?


    Zhu Cuiying was taken aback, regardless of the pastries and meat in her hands, she hurriedly said, ¡°Xiaomai, your cousin is talking about getting married, but he doesn¡¯t have the silver to build a new house, can you lend some silver?¡±

 Chapter 168 - 168: Borrow

    Chapter 168: Borrow


    Trantor: 549690339


    Zhu Cuiying had been worrying about Qiao Dazhu¡¯s marriage for years.


    She had seen how the Sun Family bullied Qiao Changshun¡¯s family over the years and she had grown ustomed to the Sun Family¡¯s arrogance and tyranny. Therefore, she also wanted to find a docile daughter-inw she could manipte to unt her power as a mother-inw.


    However, apart from finding apliant daughter-inw, Zhu Cuiying also wanted to pick a family with decent lineage.


    With the promise of Sun Junyan bing an official and pulling her family up, she honestly didn¡¯t respect those who, like her, lived off thend, and always felt a faint sense of superiority towards them.


    Bearing this in mind, her future daughter-inw¡¯s family conditions couldn¡¯t be too poor.


    She wanted both docility and a wealthy family background. With these two requirements in mind, she had been looking for suitable candidates since Qiao Dazhu was twelve or thirteen years old.


    But now Qiao Dazhu was seventeen, and the suitable candidate had yet to appear.


    Those who were docile came from very poor families.


    Those who were not poor, looked down on her family¡¯s poverty ¨C not everyone was optimistic about Sun Junyan, the schr, and therefore saw Qiao Dazhu as a potential asset.


    So, after dragging things on and on, Qiao Dazhu was suddenly of an age that made him a bit old to be single.


    Zhu Cuiying panicked, stopped being choosy, and widened her search.


    Then, a suitable girl appeared.


    Qiao Dazhu was honest and kind, industrious and simple, and the girl was also kind and diligent. They were both satisfied with each other at the first meeting, so both parents started to discuss the details.


    The notoriety of the Sun Family was widespread, and the girl¡¯s parents were resolute in their refusal to let their daughter live under the same roof. They forcefully demanded that Zhu Cuiying and Qiao Changfu separate Qiao Dazhu and provide him with a new house or else they would not agree to the marriage.


    This caused Zhu Cuiying to worry again.


    Building a new house, even a very ordinary one, would cost several taels of silver. Then adding the cost of a banquet and buying things, she¡¯d spend at least ten taels of silver.


    She had saved just over ten taels of silver over the years. Having to spend most of it all at once was heart-wrenching!


    After discussing the matter with Qiao Changfu, she set her sights on Qiao Xiaomai.


    Having sold several recipes, Qiao Xiaomai was definitely rich.


    But considering Qiao Qinghe¡¯s violent reactionst time, Zhu Cuiying did not dare to go to Qiao Xiaomai on her own and decided to consult Qiao Qinghe first.


    Naturally, Qiao Qinghe did not approve.


    They weren¡¯t penniless, there was no need to borrow.


    Zhu Cuiying was worried again and was considering going to Qiao Xiaomai in secret when Xiaomai voluntarily came to her. How could she pass up this opportunity? She openly stated her need right away.


    ¡°Xiaomai, whether your big brother Dazhu can get married depends on you!¡± Zhu Cuiying focused her earnest, bead-like eyes on Qiao Xiaomai.


    Qiao Xiaomai raised an eyebrow, ¡°How much do you n to borrow?¡±


    Upon hearing this, Zhu Cuiying was delighted. She had thought that Qiao Xiaomai might tly refuse. She was about to say something when Qiao Qinghe angrily arrived, ¡°Borrow what? She has money.¡±


    ¡°All, father, Changfu and I together have less than 8 taels of silver, how can we afford to build a house!¡± Zhu Cuiying hastily yed poor. She was speaking to Qiao Qinghe, but her eyes were locked on Qiao Xiaomai, ¡°Xiaomai, can you lend us twenty taels? Your big brother Dazhu will pay you back for sure!¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai chuckled, reaching into his pocket and pulling out five taels of silver, ¡°1 don¡¯t have more. This debt is on Dazhu¡¯s ount, and 1 won¡¯t lend any more until these five taels are paid back..¡±

 Chapter 169 - 169 Spiritual Spring Upgrade

    Chapter 169: Spiritual Spring Upgrade


    Trantor: 549690339


    Qiao Dazhu was the only one among the Qiao family who hadn¡¯t taken a wrong turn in life. At seventeen, he wasn¡¯t married, and she didn¡¯t mind lending him some silver.


    She handed the silver to Qiao Qinghe, ¡°Grandpa, i¡¯ll leave this with you. Make sure it all goes to Dazhu.¡±


    Qiao Qinghe was about to scold Zhu Cuiying initially, but upon hearing this, he hesitated and epted the silver.


    Qiao Dazhu was a child he held dear in his heart.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, every single coin will be spent on your Dazhu,¡± he promised.


    Qiao Xiaomai smiled, ¡°We¡¯ll be taking our leave then.¡±


    Qiao Qinghe nodded, ¡°Go ahead.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai didn¡¯t say anything more, taking Qiao Dami¡¯s hand and turning away.


    Upon seeing this, Qiao Changshun greeted Qiao Qinghe and quickly followed after them, limping along.


    Zhu Cuiying


    She stared greedily at the silver in Qiao Qinghe¡¯s hand, cursing inwardly. They generously removed five taels of silver as though it was nothing special, yet they imed they didn¡¯t have a magical Golden Mountain or Silver Mountain!


    Being so stingy, they¡¯d likely be crushed by their supposed Golden Mountain and Silver Mountain!


    Even though Qiao Xiaomai had lent the silver, she did not have high expectations of getting anything good from Zhu Cuiying. She quickly brushed it off and started cooking once she got home.


    She had bought a fish, which she cleaned and ced in a pot to fry. Then, she added water to make soup.


    She washed the elm seeds, mixed them with flour and steamed them in a bamboo steamer.


    Soon, the fish soup was ready, as was the steamed elm seed dish.


    The three members of the family sat around the dinner table. Each had a bowl of fish soup, and arge te of steamed elm seeds in the center of the table.


    Qiao Changshun tasted the creamy white soup first, remarking, ¡°Xiaomai, your culinary skills have improved.¡±


    Dami, who was eating the steamed elm seeds, repeatedly nodded in agreement, ¡°Delicious, delicious!.¡±


    The taste of the steamed elm seeds they ate every year was greatly enhanced!


    Bending the corners of her mouth, Xiaomai showed a dimpled smile. Her peach blossom eyes shimmered with joy.


    Her culinary skills have indeed improved.


    Because the quality of the spiritual spring water in her spare space had increased!


    The spring water she used before was no different from the well water in her house. But now, it was different and much sweeter. She felt the difference clearly from before.


    She discovered this on the previous night. For a few days, she had to refrain from drinking cold water because of her period. When it endedst night, she drank half a ss before bed and immediately noticed the difference.


    The water tasted sweet, but it wasn¡¯t a simple sweetness like that of sugar cane. Instead, it was refreshing and pleasing, like the air after rainfall.


    She drank two sses, until her stomach was round. Then, she rolled around in bedughing, her moodpletely brightened after several gloomy days due to her period.


    Even though she had to run to the bathroom several timesst night, she woke up feeling energetic this morning. She even happily lent silver to Zhu Cuiying.


    Her spiritual spring had upgraded!


    Even though she wasn¡¯t clear about the conditions of the upgrade, it had definitely happened!


    Whether used for drinking or cooking, the taste was fantastic!


    She was already earning money through her cooking skills, and now with the spiritual spring water, countless silvers were pping their wings towards her!


    She gently examined the small pool inside her spare space. Her eyes were as gentle as water.


    This wasn¡¯t a mere water pool. It was her treasure trove!


    The more she thought about it, the happier she became. She sipped her fish soup delightfully, and then told her father, ¡°Dad, continue with the tofu skin productionter. I¡¯ll take care of the braised chicken feet.¡±


    If the water used for boiling the soy milk was reced by this spring water, the tofu skin produced would taste even better!


    By the same logic, her braised chicken feet would taste even better, too!

 Chapter 170 - 170: Honored Guest

    Chapter 170: Honored Guest


    Trantor: 549690339


    After being busy all afternoon, Qiao Xiaomai had stewed all the thousand plus chicken feet. Just as she had predicted, they tasted even better than before.


    The soy milk that Qiao Changshun boiled before making tofu skin also tasted better. And she tried making some tofu pudding, which turned out to be smoother than the previous batch.


    The following day was the Tomb-Sweeping Festival. The weather was gloomy, so Qiao Dami stayed at home while Qiao Changshun and Qiao Xiaomai went to town to deliver the chicken feet.


    Over a thousand chicken feet earned them more than two strings of cash.


    As they were leaving Zuixian Building and about to drive the Donkey Cart home, Yuan Ding appeared in front of the cart, his round face beaming with a friendly smile, ¡°Miss Qiao, Uncle Qiao, our Shopkeeper invites you.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s the matter?¡± Qiao Xiaomai asked.


    ¡°You¡¯ll know when you get there, it¡¯s good news.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai frowned. The weather was gloomy and could rain at any moment, but this Shopkeeper He was certainly ying games with them!


    Still, she didn¡¯t want to put Yuan Ding in a difficult position, so she signaled Qiao Changshun to drive the cart towards Extreme Taste Residence.


    Once they entered Extreme Taste Residence, Shopkeeper He greeted them with a heartyugh, ¡°Miss Qiao, Brother Qiao, please, pleasee in.¡±


    ¡°Shopkeeper He, just spill the beans quickly. It¡¯s about to rain and my father and I need to get home ASAP.¡± Qiao Xiaomai said directly, driving the cart in the rain was definitely not an enjoyable experience.


    Shopkeeper He clicked his tongue a couple of times, letting out a silent sigh.


    He didn¡¯t know exactly what had offended Qiao Xiaomai, as she had always been lukewarm towards him.


    However, Tong Sang had instructed him to build a closer rtionship with Qiao Xiaomai, so he had no choice but to keep trying to cozy up to her, even if she seemed distant.


    Still smiling widely, he said, ¡°Well, the thing is, a distinguished guest has visited Extreme Taste Residence, who is very curious about your cooking skills. So, I¡¯d like to invite you to cook a meal for the guest. Of course, you won¡¯t be working for free. I¡¯ll pay you with silver.¡±


    ¡°How about ten taels for a meal?¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai gently raised her eyebrows. For Shopkeeper He to readily offer ten taels of silver to invite her to cook, the guest must be very distinguished indeed.


    Seeing that Qiao Xiaomai didn¡¯t seem overly surprised, Shopkeeper He gritted his teeth and said, ¡°Twenty taels, and if you can satisfy our guest, 1¡¯11 add ten more taels after.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai chuckled. She hadn¡¯t hesitated earlier, but had been surprised.


    This distinguished guest must be someone that Extreme Taste Residence wanted to build a good rtionship with.


    However, she was nning to make money with the Spiritual Spring water and the thirty taels of silver weren¡¯t going anywhere!


    ¡°Let¡¯s go to the kitchen. What does the guest like to eat?¡± she asked.


    Shopkeeper He let out a sigh of relief, ¡°Your choice, just make it delicious. The guest found out that the cold jelly noodles and tofu pudding were your creations and is interested in tasting your skills.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai nodded to show her understanding.


    She asked Qiao Changshun to rest in Shopkeeper He¡¯s room, and then followed Shopkeeper He to the kitchen.


    The kitchen of Extreme Taste Residence was quiterge, and the ingredients were plentiful. Qiao Xiaomai took a look around and spotted lobster and sea cucumber, and her mouth started to water.


    But since the original owner of the body considered lobster and sea cucumber to be luxury items that she had never dealt with, she decided to make simple home-cooked dishes instead.


    Under the pretense of not wanting others to steal her techniques, she asked everyone to leave the kitchen, leaving only Shopkeeper He to tend to the fire.


    She wanted to rece the regr water with the Spiritual Spring water secretly!


    After nearly two hours, she made eight dishes and a soup: Braised Pork with Stewed Bean Thread, Braised Pork Knuckle, Minced Meat Tofu, Sweet and Sour Ribs, Toffee Sweet Potato, Stir-fried Mustard Greens, Cold Marinated Wood Ear Mushroom, Garlic Flesh Pork, and Tofu Vegetable Soup.


    Once the dishes were done, Shopkeeper He, while controlling his drooling, ordered his servants to pack them into food boxes to be sent to the Academy.


    The distinguished guest was residing temporarily in Bailu Academy.


    Before heading to the Academy, Shopkeeper He gave Qiao Xiaomai twenty taels of silver, asking her to wait at Extreme Taste Residence, in case the guest wanted to meet her afterwards..

 Chapter 171 - 171: His Highness, Prince Wei

    Chapter 171: His Highness, Prince Wei


    Trantor: 549690339


    It was now noon, Qiao Xiaomai took a look at the gloomy weather and wanted to let Qiao Changshun with the donkey cart go home first.


    Qiao Dami was alone at home, he wouldn¡¯t know how to cook.


    Qiao Changshun shook his head, while he couldn¡¯t cook, Qiao Dami knew how to light a fire, boil some hot water, steam the steamed buns, and eat a few snacks. That was considered a meal.


    Compared to Qiao Dami who was staying at home, he was even more reluctant to let Qiao Xiaomai walk home alone.


    Neither the father nor the daughter managed to persuade each other, but luckily, the distinguished guest over there was very efficient. A quarter of an hourter, Yuan Ding came running back, saying that the distinguished guest wanted to see Qiao Xiaomai.


    Qiao Xiaomai quickly followed Yuan Ding to the Bailu Academy.


    Bailu Academy was the number one academy in Daqi, surpassing the Imperial College in all aspects. There are thousands of students from all over Daqi, from the children of high-ranking officials to those of farmers.


    Bailu Academy is divided into three areas: teaching, amodation, and office. Today is the Tomb-Sweeping Festival, and the academy is on holiday. Those who live nearby have gone home, and those who live far away either went back to their houses in the town or stayed at the academy.


    However, very few schrs stayed at the academy, so the vast academy was quite deserted at this time. Yuan Ding led Qiao Xiaomai from the main gate all the way to the entrance of the residential area without seeing a single schr.


    ¡°Brother Yuan, what¡¯s the identity of that distinguished guest? How should I address him?¡± Qiao Xiaomai asked in a low voice.


    ¡°The distinguished guest is His Highness, the Prince of Wei. There was a snow disaster in a city in the northwest in January, and the Prince of Wei was ordered by the emperor to handle it. Now that the disaster is over, he has specificallye to visit President Gu.¡± Yuan Ding replied softly.


    ¡°Prince of Wei?¡± Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s pupils slightly widened. Indeed, this guest was distinguished.


    ¡°Yes, the Prince of Wei is the fourth son of the current emperor, the full brother of the crown prince, and is very favored. When you see himter, you must show respect.¡± Yuan Ding reminded her.


    ¡°What¡¯s his temperament like?¡± Qiao Xiaomai quickly became worried after her initial surprise.


    ¡°Miss, rest assured, Prince Wei is a nice guy. As long as you don¡¯t make any mistakes, he won¡¯t deliberately make things difficult for you.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai nodded, yet she still felt a bit nervous.


    Meeting this powerful figure in this dpidated ce, she was somewhat nervous.


    The amodation area was divided into two parts: one was the student dormitory, and the other was where the schrs lived. Each had their own small courtyard, nted with various nts and flowers. The environment was quiet and serene.


    Yuan Ding led Qiao Xiaomai to stop in front of a courtyard. He lifted his hand and gently knocked on the door. ¡°Miss Qiao is here.¡±


    ¡°Come in.¡± A somewhatzy yet maic male voice sounded. Hearing this, Yuan Ding quickly signaled Qiao Xiaomai to go in.


    Qiao Xiaomai took a deep breath, pushed open the bamboo door of the courtyard, and walked in.


    Shopkeeper He was standing at the door. When he saw her enter, he led her to the grapevine on the right side of the courtyard.


    Under the bare grapevine, there was a table with two people sitting beside it. One was the white-bearded President Gu, and the other was Prince Wei.


    Qiao Xiaomai followed Yuan Ding¡¯s instructions and bowed to the two seated. ¡°My humble greetings to Your Highness Prince Wei, and to the dear President.¡±


    President Gu was also the mayor of Bailu Town. Ever since the establishment of Bailu Academy, the rule over this area was entirely under him, so Qiao Xiaomai referred to him as dear President.


    Yang Ye waszily leaning on thefortable grandmaster chair, with his phoenix eyes slightly narrowed. His pink thin lips opened and he uttered a few words. ¡°Lift your head..¡±

 Chapter 172 - 172: Be My Personal Kitchen Maid

    Chapter 172: Be My Personal Kitchen Maid


    Trantor: 549690339


    Qiao Xiaomai, on hearing this, looked up the way she¡¯d seen people do on TV, but her gaze still remained downward.


    Yang Ye¡¯s eyebrows, sloping up toward his temples, quirked at the unexpected sight. This vige girl was quite attractive.


    With some grooming, she could easily rival the nobledies of the Capital City.


    As he contemted this, a new interest flickered in his eyes, ¡°Did you make all this food?¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai quietly confirmed.


    ¡°Did you also make these cold jelly noodles?¡± he asked again.


    Qiao Xiaomai continued to confirm.


    ¡°You¡¯re quite clever,¡± Yang Ye praised.


    While he was managing snow disaster relief in Qinglu Prefecture, the area was so barren that aside from sweet potatoes, the yields of all other crops and vegetables were low. Moreover, he arrived there in January, when the only greens avable were radishes and Chinese cabbage, along with some dried vegetables. Having stayed there for nearly three months, he was nearly bored to death of the fare.


    However, one day, the local Inn in Prefecture City unexpectedly started serving cold jelly noodles ¨C all made from sweet potatoes, making the most out of the local produce.


    These two dishes paired with other entrees greatly diversified his meals.


    Just when he was growing tired of them, tofu and bean curd dishes were introduced.


    The tofu, when paired with other ingredients, brought even more variety to the table.


    With the sudden influx of new dishes, he became interested, and upon learning they were made by a vige girl, he took a detour to Bailu Town on his way back to the Capital City.


    One reason was to pay a visit to Director Gu, the other was to meet this little vige girl.


    If these dishes weren¡¯t a stroke of luck and she truly was talented, he wouldn¡¯t mind taking her back to the Wang Residence to be his exclusive kitchen maid.


    Qiao Xiaomai was unaware of the thinking of this Prince in front of her. Faced with hiszy praise, she continued to lower her gaze and remained silent.


    The less you talk, the less you blunder.


    ¡°Are these dishes your best?¡± Yang Ye asked again, pointing to the food on the table with his pale, slender finger.


    The best.


    This ¡°best¡± posed a problem for Qiao Xiaomai.


    It¡¯s clearly not her best, of which there were many.


    A lie¡­


    She dare not.


    But if she told the truth¡­


    Right now, she was kind of regretting it. If she had known this nobleman was a prince, she wouldn¡¯t have used the water from the Spiritual Spring to cook.


    What if she had shown off too much and Prince Wei insisted on taking her back to be his kitchen maid?


    ¡°The other things I make also taste very good,¡± she decided to tell the truth after some thought.


    At her words, surprise flickered once again in Yang Ye¡¯s eyes.


    The Director Gu, who was sitting on the side, chuckled and stroked his white beard.


    At this moment, when modesty is the norm, Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s words had absolutely nothing to do with modesty.


    ¡°Perfect. This Prince ns on staying in Bailu Town for a few days. During this time, you will be in charge of providing meals. If I am satisfied, when I leave, 1 can take you to the Wang Residence,¡± Yang Ye said, shifting positions, with a hand leaning on the armrest supporting his head, looking at Qiao Xiaomai with interest.


    You must know, his kitchen in the Wang Residence is even grander than the Imperial Kitchen. Chefs in his residence are treated even better than outside local officials.


    It¡¯s well known that Prince Wei prefers fine food over beauties.


    Qiao Xiaomai didn¡¯t know about Yang Ye¡¯s preferences. When she heard these words, she felt her heart thumping, here ites!


    If she had known, she wouldn¡¯t have shown off in the first ce!


    Resisting the urge to smack herself, she pursed her lips, wracking her brain, could she refuse?


    Could she refuse?!

 Chapter 173 - 173:I Just Want to Be a Peaceful Landlady

    Chapter 173:I Just Want to Be a Peaceful Landy


    Trantor: 549690339


    ¡°My Lord, it is my honor that you appreciate my cooking skills. However, my culinary techniques are rudimentary and not advanced enough for public recognition. You are ustomed to the unique dishes from various ces, and so my simple rice porridge and dishes may seem appetizing now. But after a few more meals, you might grow tired of them.¡±


    Her mind raced rapidly, and Qiao Xiaomai came up with an excuse.


    A sensation of thrill and excitement did not color her small face as expected, which puzzled Yang Ye. He lightly eximed and pointed his slender finger at the dishes on the table, ¡°Which of these is the rice porridge and simple dishes you¡¯re talking about?¡±


    Among these eight dishes and one soup, even the simplest stir-fried mustard greens required numerous condiments.


    Not to mention the Braised Pork and Sweet Potato ze, dishes he hadn¡¯t even seen in the pce.


    Not suitable for public recognition? These dishes¡¯ vors could outshine any chef¡¯s cooking, whether in his Wang Residence, or even in the Imperial Kitchen.


    Moreover, Qiao Xiaomai just said that her other dishes tasted good too, only to blink and im her cooking skills were too rudimentary for public recognition.


    Yang Ye¡¯s elegant eyebrows knit together, a trace of hesitancy clouding his handsome face.


    He, the favored Prince Wei of Emperor Yongan, second only to the heir apparent, was rejected by a country bumpkin girl?


    Qiao Xiaomai, of course, caught on to Yang Ye¡¯s unsatisfaction, but what could she say?


    Should she follow him to the Wang Residence and be a kitchen maid?


    She did not want to be a servant.


    Although it was said that servants at the Prime Minister¡¯s gate are as noble as a seventh-rank official, she felt morefortable being a wealthyndlord.


    She gritted her teeth and said, ¡°My Lord, if you don¡¯t believe me, you can taste my dishes. 1 assure you, 1 am not overselling myself.¡±


    Yang Ye grunted, his stunning face shadowed with a gloom. Deceiving him?


    Refusing him by deliberately downying her skill was deceitful!


    This country bumpkin is bold indeed!


    Just when he was about to vent his anger, the silent Head of the Valley suddenly said, ¡°Your Highness, 1 believe this girl is right. The charm of these dishes lies in their novelty. In other respects,pared to your pce cooks, they might fall short.¡±


    Indeed, Qiao Xiaomai had never formally studied cooking. If we weren¡¯t discussing the taste, her knife skills, presentation, and delicacy of cooking couldn¡¯t meet the standards of cooks from the Imperial Kitchen.


    ¡°You¡¯ve been in Qinglu Prefecture for two or three months. It¡¯s understandable that you¡¯d find this food refreshing at first sight. But, after some time, you might truly be weary of it.¡±


    ¡°This girl, knowing her limits, expressed this concern, hoping to prevent future disappointments.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Yang Ye¡¯s countenance didn¡¯t change. Qiao Xiaomai had just rejected him, but ording to the Head of the Valley¡¯s interpretation, it seemed as if she was selflessly considering things from his standpoint?


    With a puzzled look, he nced at the Head of the Valley, and jibed, ¡°Just now, she imed to cook other dishes well too.¡±


    The Head of the Valley chuckled, stroked his beard, and said with an air of indifference, ¡°This ruralss, with her limited experience, is self-important. Actually, she¡¯s mediocre. Compared to your pce cooks, let alone the master chefs from Jiwei Residence, she wouldn¡¯t measure up.¡±


    ¡°If she just now praised her cooking, it was probably to arouse your interest, in hopes of gaining a reward.¡±


    ¡°But once she realized your intentions to employ her long term, she feared exhausting her repertoire and causing your wrath or disgust, she naturally spoke the truth.¡±


    After saying this, he gently shook his head at Yang Ye.


    Upon seeing the Head of the Valley¡¯s behavior, Yang Ye paused.. What kind of secret could be concealed in this simple vige girl?

 Chapter 174 - 174 She is Trying to Attract My Attention

    Chapter 174: She is Trying to Attract My Attention


    Trantor: 549690339


    Yang Ye couldn¡¯t understand, but since the Dean implied it and his words earlier had saved his face, providing him with an exit, he coldly hummed, ¡°The Master is absolutely right.¡±


    Seeing this, Dean Gu chuckled softly, saying, ¡°Yet, demonstrating such cunning amongst country girls is remarkable indeed.¡±


    Yang Ye scrunched his brows, remaining silent.


    Seeing this, Dean Gu turned to He Zhanggui, ¡°Shopkeeper He, there¡¯s nothing further, you can take this girl back.¡±


    He Zhanggui, standing to one side, kept his head down, not daring to breathe too heavily. Upon hearing this, he hastily agreed.


    This girl, who even dares reject Prince Wei, is truly terrifying.


    A quickening his pace, he strode away swiftly.


    Qiao Xiaomai bowed to Yang Ye and Dean Gu, quickly following in small paced steps.


    She had heard Yang Ye¡¯s rage clearly, she too found it terrifying!


    Only after she had exited the Academy¡¯s main gate, she finally exhaled the breath she¡¯d been holding in.


    Withplex emotions, Shopkeeper He looked at her, ¡°You really have guts, and a strong will.¡±


    Daring to refuse Prince Wei requires guts.


    Rejecting the chance of a lifetime, that¡¯s willpower.


    He admired her.


    Upon hearing this, Qiao Xiaomai patted her chest, it wasn¡¯t about being brave, she was scared too just now.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go quickly, it¡¯s about to rain.¡± She said hurriedly heading towards Jiwiju.


    Gods above, please allow Dean Gu to persuade Prince Wei not to trouble her anymore!


    Elsewhere, as Qiao Xiaomai left thepound, Yang Ye immediately asked, ¡°Master, what was the meaning of your earlier actions?¡±


    Dean Gu picked up his teacup, gently sipping at the tea. After a moment, he leisurely replied, ¡°Jiwiju and Zuixian Building offered cold jelly noodles and tofu pudding recipes to the emperor, which Qiao Xiaomai, a country girl, created. Upon learning this, the Emperor sent a message to me, asking me to take care of her.¡±


    ¡°Just because of two recipes?¡± Yang Ye was somewhat surprised, his phoenix eyes widening a bit.


    ¡°Yes. Although these two recipes seem insignificant, they involve sweet potatoes and soybeans.¡±


    Although Emperor Yongan didn¡¯t explicitly say so, Dean Gu could guess his intentions.


    Sweet potatoes have high yields. Ever since it appeared, Daqi has never experienced a famine.


    But eating too many sweet potatoes can cause heartburn and bloating, so it can¡¯t be a staple food like wheat and rice.


    Now that sweet potatoes have been turned into cold noodles, although the method hasn¡¯t been publicized, Jiwiju needs a lot of sweet potatoes, and the cold noodles it sells are cheap enough for themon people to afford. So, it is beneficial to them.


    As for soybeans, it is grown everywhere, but due to limited ways of cooking, it can¡¯t be a staple food.


    Now there¡¯s a new way to eat soybeans, although it hasn¡¯t been promoted, but both restaurants will purchase a lot of soybeans, which is also a good thing for themon people.


    Both thingsbined are enough for Emperor Yongan to show some goodwill towards Qiao Xiaomai.


    After listening to Dean Gu¡¯s exnation, Yang Ye¡¯s handsome face was still gloomy. He mmed the table, saying angrily, ¡°But she dare reject me!¡±


    He understood the reasoning, but she, a mere country girl, dared to reject him!


    In his twenty odd years of life, he had never felt so humiliated!


    And he had never lost face like this before!


    ¡°Your Highness, why lose your temper over a country girl? Come,e, let¡¯s eat.¡± Dean Gu coaxed.


    ¡°I can¡¯t swallow this anger!¡± Yang Ye stared at the dazzling spread of delicious food on the table, wanting to eat, but also feeling resentful.


    Since his childhood, he was pampered by the retired Emperor Yongan, the Empress and the Crown Prince. Everything always went his way for twenty years, but today in Bailu Town, he had lost face to a country girl.


    He red at the tempting braised pork on the table, his enchanting phoenix eyes squinting slightly. Suddenly an idea struck him, ¡°Master, do you think she did it on purpose?¡±


    ¡°Did what on purpose?¡±


    ¡°Intentionally refusing me to attract my attention! It¡¯s the strategy of feigning weakness to entice the enemy!¡± Yang Ye couldn¡¯t help but m the table again.


    It must be exactly like that!

 Chapter 175 - 175: A Powerful Move for Sanlang

    Chapter 175: A Powerful Move for Sang


    Trantor: 549690339


    ¡°Pff!¡± Unexpectedly, Yang Ye would say such a thing, Director Gu was choked by a slice of braised pork.


    He coughed a few times and then drained his cup of tea in one gulp.


    More than a year had passed, but the Prince¡¯s self-love syndrome had not improved at all.


    Prince Wei had been pampered since childhood, his status was high, he looked good, so ever since he entered adolescence, he was the object of admiration for thedies in the Capital City.


    Having been indulged by everyone, he naturally developed a narcissistic temperament.


    In his own words, all beauties in the world could not escape his charm.


    Well, Qiao Xiaomai had obviously rejected him so clearly, yet he interpreted the refusal as coquetry.


    Director Gu lifted his sleeve to wipe the corner of his mouth and thoughtfully said, ¡°She¡¯s a countryside girl. She might not have thought of ying hard to get?¡±


    ¡°How could she not? Would a stupid person do such a thing?¡± Yang Ye¡¯s beautiful phoenix eyes stared at the full table of dishes, and the breath in his chest that he couldn¡¯t swallow made him grind his teeth.


    ¡°Hmm¡­What if she really doesn¡¯t want to be a kitchen maid in the Wang Residence? As far as I know, her family now has more than 300 acres of farnd, which can be considered as smallndlord.¡± Director Gu said.


    ¡°Can a smallndlord bepared to a kitchen maid in my Prince Wei Residence?¡± Yang Ye lifted his long brows.


    ¡°Everyone has their own aspirations.¡± Director Gu said.


    Yang Ye¡¯s handsome face then turned even darker.


    A kitchen maid from his royal residence, can she not outdo a few hundred acres ofnd!


    ¡°To be the head of a chicken rather than the tail of a phoenix, perhaps this is her consideration.¡± Director Gu advised.


    Although Yang Ye is narcissistic and his temper is not good, deep down he is not bad and he had never bullied others because of his status, so now Director Gu could only try to make excuses for Qiao Xiaomai along Yang Ye¡¯s temper.


    But these excuses didn¡¯t improve Yang Ye¡¯s mood at all.


    No matter how youforted him, he, the Prince, had been rejected by a country bumpkin girl.


    This breath must be vented!


    Qiao Xiaomai returned to Ji Wei House and took the ten taels of silver given by Shopkeeper He, then hurried home with Qiao Changshun in a donkey cart.


    Midway, the sky began to drizzle, and both father and daughter put on their rain gear. Butpared to the raincoats ofter generations, these were nothing. By the time they got home, their clothes had already gotten quite wet.


    Qiao Xiaomai changed into dry clothes and went to the kitchen to make ginger soup.


    After drinking tworge bowls of ginger soup, she started cooking. Before this, Qiao Dami had only eaten a few pastries, so she did not cook.


    The light drizzle continued until nightfall. Outside, one could not see their hand in front of their face and even going to the toilet required the carrying of an oilmp¡ªsince Qiao Changshun and Qiao Dami were there, she dared not use a shlight.


    She also had to avoid the rainwater on the ground, as she only wore cloth shoes, which would get wet as soon as they touched water.


    The inconvenient conditions coupled with the pressure from Yang Ye made Qiao Xiaomai feel down. When she woke up the next day, the weather had cleared and the sun came out, but her mood did not improve.


    While Qiao Xiaomai was sad, so was Tong Sang.


    This morning he had gone to the Ji Wei House again under the guise of selling game, when he learned of yesterday¡¯s events.


    Her Highness Prince Wei, had his eyes set on Qiao Xiaomai!


    Prince Wei has two famous quotes:


    All beauties in the world can¡¯t escape his charm.


    All fine food in the world can¡¯t escape his stomach.


    Even though Xiao Xiaomai rejected Prince Wei yesterday, considering her cooking skills and Prince Wei¡¯s character, it¡¯s still uncertain!


    Shopkeeper He didn¡¯t know about Tong Sang¡¯s little thoughts, he just simply told Tong Sang about it and said somewhat wistfully, ¡°If Miss Qiao really goes to Prince Wei¡¯s Residence, then our Ji Wei House will make a lot less silver.¡±


    Tong Sang took his words to heart.


    However, what he cared about was not making money, but the person Qiao Xiaomai.


    No one in his own house supported his courting of Qiao Xiaomai.


    Now he hadn¡¯t even figured out his own thoughts, but Prince Wei had appeared.


    The man was rich, powerful, high-ranking, handsome, and cultured.


    He had originally thought that once he was sessful and stood at the peak of this world, he would be worthy of Qiao Xiaomai.


    But now, a man standing at the peak had appeared.


    Even though this man was only interested in Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s culinary skills, it was enough to make him feel burdensome like a mountain..

 Chapter 176 - 176: Tong Sanlang’s Countermeasure

    Chapter 176: Tong Sang¡¯s Countermeasure


    Trantor: 549690339


    Tong Sang, worried and anxious, drove the ox cart back home. Zhu Hongyun and his wife, the second sons of the Tong family, were still living in the town. Mrs. Qian had returned home, but she had gone to visit another family at this point, leaving only Tong Tiehu at home.


    He bit his lip and told Tong Tiehu about his decision.


    After hearing it, Tong Tiehu frowned and asked, ¡°Are you sure about this?¡±


    ¡°I am sure.¡±


    The frown on Tong Tiehu¡¯s face deepened, ¡°Let me remind you, our family is too dangerous for ordinary people.¡±


    ¡°But I can¡¯t remain unmarried forever, I have to involve an innocent person.¡±


    ¡°I will ensure her safety,¡± Tong Sang said confidently, a look of confidence on his handsome face.


    ¡°But you must bear her wrath when she discovers the truth,¡± Tong Tiehu added.


    Tong Sang heard the implied meaning in his grandfather¡¯s words and smiled.


    Treason, a matter punishable by beheading. If the current Emperor discovered it, many people would die. Therefore, he did not n to inform Qiao Xiaomai about his family¡¯s preparation for rebellion.


    Concealing it from her now is a deceit.


    Given Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s ability, she might very well chop him down with a knife while he is asleep once she discovered the truth.


    No, she might not conceal her actions. Given her nature, she would confront him openly.


    She has a great deal of power. In the face of her overwhelming strength, he might not be her match.


    Imagining himself lying in a pool of blood, the smile on Tong Sang¡¯s handsome face deepened.


    Ever since he found out he had to overthrow Daqi as per his great-grandfather¡¯s orders, he envisioned such a scenario.


    Currently, Daqi is experiencing peace and prosperity. To n a rebellion is an uphill task.


    His fate most likely won¡¯t be too good.


    He shouldn¡¯t have involved Qiao Xiaomai. However, witnessing Qiao Xiaomai taken away by Yang Ye was even less bearable. Thus, he would rather put Qiao Xiaomai on this path of criminality.


    The thought of not seeing her made his heart ache badly, giving rise to an instinctive urge to storm the Wang Residence and steal her back.


    Therefore, he decided to be selfish just this once.


    Tong Tiehu gazed nkly at his grandson, his eyes filled with confusion again.


    Having borne this heavy duty all his life, even handing it over to his grandson ¨C was it right or wrong for him to do this?


    Yang Family¡¯s rule over Daqi has brought prosperity and stability. Should he really plunge ordinary citizens back into war, all for the sake of a personal grudge¡­


    Heaving a long sigh, he waved his hand, ¡°Go ahead.¡±


    The question of whether to rebel or not had troubled him for decades.


    Now that the rule of the Yang Family is getting stronger, the Tong Family may not be able to overturn it. He couldn¡¯t restrict Tong Sang from getting married just because of this vague issue.


    Having gained his grandfather¡¯s approval, Tong Sang knelt down before Tong Tiehu and thanked him, ¡°Thank you for your understanding, Grandfather.¡±


    Having said that, he got up, left the courtyard and headed for the Qiao Family.


    Qiao Xiaomai was sitting expressionless in front of the stove, keeping an eye on the soy milk in the pot. Qiao Changshun and Qiao Dami had taken the donkey cart to harvest green grass. Even with the formidable figure of Yang Ye looming over her, they still needed to earn their living.


    Hearing Tong Sang¡¯s voice, she adjusted her facial expression, got up and opened the door.


    ¡°Brother Tong San, why are you here?¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s go inside and talk,¡± Tong Sang stepped into the courtyard.


    Qiao Xiaomai gave a nod, closed the courtyard door, and invited Tong Sang to sit down, ¡°Would you like a bowl of soy milk?¡±


    ¡°No need,¡± Tong Sang shook his head and directly asked, ¡°Today, I went to the Extreme Taste Restaurant to sell hunting goods and heard about what happened yesterday. Do you have any ns?¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai


    Apart from praying fervently in her heart, what other ns could she possibly have?


    Seeing Qiao Xiaomai keeping silent, her face stern, Tong Sang chose his words carefully, ¡°1 have a suggestion. Would you like to hear it?¡±


    ¡°What is it?¡±


    ¡°Marry me.¡± With thin lips slightly parting, Tong Sanhang revealed four words that made Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s face change drastically.


    ¡°My grandfather is, after all, a minor official registered in the Daqi database. If you marry me, Prince Wei wouldn¡¯t forcibly take you away.¡± In the face of Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s icy expression, Tong Sang exined..

 Chapter 177 - 177 He Really Likes Her

    Chapter 177: He Really Likes Her


    Trantor: 549690339


    Tong Sang knew very well of Yang Ye¡¯s temperament. Having been spoiled by the four biggest figures of Daqi ¨C Emperor Yong¡¯an and his empress, princes, he was somewhat arrogant and hot-tempered, but not spoiled to the point ofmitting uneptable acts.


    However, Yang Ye had a fondness for good food, and Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s culinary skills were excellent. He might resort to coercion and enticements to taste her cooking every day.


    Despite Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s extraordinary background, she was in essence a simple country girl, unable to resist against someone of Yang Ye¡¯s status.


    But if she were to marry him, Xiaomai could be considered part of the gentry.


    Although her rank might seem pitiable, it would definitely make Yang Ye exercise caution.


    If that doesn¡¯t work, even the Prime Minister is above him, and he could involve Emperor Yong¡¯an. If the Emperor were to turn a blind eye, it would give them the perfect excuse to rebel.


    Staring into Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s icy face with his pitch-ck eyes, Tong Sang asked, ¡°Miss Qiao, what do you think of my suggestion?¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s fingers clenched into fists as memories of a suitor¡¯s previous marriage proposal appeared in her mind.


    Her eyes reddened, and she struggled to control the impulse tosh out. Gritting her teeth, she asked, ¡°Why are you being so kind?¡±


    No, she mustn¡¯t attack. She had to keep her extraordinary strength a secret.


    ¡°Because I am enamored with you,¡± Tong Sang answered sincerely.


    He noticed that Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s reaction was off, but everyone had their secrets, right?


    His current task wasn¡¯t to uncover secrets, but to convince Qiao Xiaomai to marry him.


    ¡°1 was initially nning to take things slow, but upon learning that you might be taken away by Prince Wei, 1 followed my heart¡¯s impulse and came to confess to you,¡± he confessed.


    ¡°Of course, this may seem sudden to you. Please forgive my recklessness, but 1 genuinely want to marry you,¡± he added.


    ¡°I hope you would give it careful consideration,¡± he said.


    Qiao Xiaomai stood there, fists still tightly clenched, the veins on the back of her hands bulging. Coldlyughing, she stared at Tong Sang, asking, ¡°Enamored with me?¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t believe me?¡± Tong Sang raised an eyebrow, extending his right hand with its clearly defined knuckles towards her.


    ¡°Let me list your virtues. First, filial piety,¡± he said, extending his thumb as he spoke.


    ¡°Hardworking,¡± he said, extending his index finger.


    ¡°Crafty and skilled,¡± he said, extending his middle finger.


    ¡°Gentle,¡± he said, extending his ring finger.


    ¡°Resilient,¡± he said, extending his pinky.


    After listing five virtues, his hand was fully open.


    Then he extended his left hand, fist clenched, to begin listing Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s ws.


    ¡°Your mother has a bad reputation,¡± he said, extending his thumb.


    He ced his hands in front of Qiao Xiaomai. ¡°But reputation means nothing to me.¡±


    Speaking, he covered his left thumb with his open right hand. ¡°These five virtuespletely overshadow the one w. Miss Qiao, I am truly captivated by you,¡± he said sincerely.


    Qiao Xiaomai stared at the slender fingers in front of her, but her anger didn¡¯t dissipate.


    This kind of sweet talk had be as tasteless as water to her. The anger in her heart was still burning, making her want to explode.


    ¡°ttery,¡± she spat out through gritted teeth.


    ¡°Miss, you can see my actions for yourself. From now on, I¡¯ll show you that my words are not empty,¡± Tong Sang said with earnest sincerity. His eyes filled with tenderness as he gazed at Qiao Xiaomai.


    He had been somewhat conflicted before confessing, but once the words were spoken, that conflict evaporated instantaneously.


    All that was left was joy.


    This joyful assurance told him that he was truly smitten with her..

 Chapter 178 - 178: My Sincere Proposal to the Lady

    Chapter 178: My Sincere Proposal to the Lady


    Trantor: 549690339


    Qiao Xiaomai red at Tong Sang before her; her mind returning from the heat of her fury, she sneered, ¡°Then let me ask you, in previous ten or more years, when the Sun family couldn¡¯t wait to abuse my family to death, why didn¡¯t you step forward to help?¡±


    This was a question she was confused about since when she first arrived and even up till now, she still can¡¯tprehend.


    Now he says he likes her.


    How absurd.


    Tong Sang raised his sword-like eyebrow, somewhat surprised; he certainly never expected Qiao Xiaomai to discover this matter.


    He lowered his outstretched hands and exined, ¡°Because you never asked Grandfather for help years ago. Our houses are very far apart; when the Sun family plundered your house, Grandfather never happened to run into them. He couldn¡¯t reprimand the Sun family individually afterward, could he?¡±


    ¡°Family disgrace is not to be discussed in public. You didn¡¯t approach Grandfather, if he meddled in without any prudence, wouldn¡¯t you resent him for overstepping?¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai was rendered speechless.


    His exnation sounded usible.


    ¡°Is it really just because of this?¡± Her eyes narrowed, her little face full of unbelief.


    ¡°Of course, it is,¡± Tong Sang nodded. With limpid ck eyes, he locked gazes with the questioning Xiaomai, not evading, ¡°Everyone in the vige is familiar with my Grandfather¡¯s character. If you had asked him at that time, he would have definitely stepped in and prevented the Sun family.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai ground her teeth. Although the reasoning seemed usible, she didn¡¯t believe him.


    She didn¡¯t trust his exnation.


    She didn¡¯t trust that Tong Sang actually liked her.


    When Tong Sang was treating her unterally, solving her problems, he must have had some other ulterior motives!


    Looking at Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s icy expression and her slightly reddened eyes, Tong Sang gave a sigh. Straightening up his back, he said solemnly, ¡°Miss Qiao, everything I have said just now is true.¡±


    ¡°I am Tong Sang, also known as Tong Zhan. At seventeen, having passed the Child Student Test, I will participate in the district examination in the autumn. Our household isfortably well-off. Today, I sincerely confess to you, hoping to propose to you. 1 hope you would kindly consider.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai was caught speechless again.


    He¡¯s even gone to the extent of self-introduction.


    Biting her lips together in stress, she was about to reject him, when the gate made a sound, followed by the voice of the Sun Family, ¡°Changsun, Changsun, hurry and open the door, I¡¯m here to see you.¡±


    The sound made Qiao Xiaomai swallow the words on the tip of her tongue.


    She looked toward the gate, her willow-brow eyebrows grudgingly frowning.


    She remained silent; naturally, Tong Sang won¡¯t make any sound either. He also turned his gaze toward the entrance.


    The Sun family kept banging the gate, seeing no one answering, she peeked through the gap in the gate.


    Through the gap, she caught a glimpse of Qiao Xiaomai sitting in the courtyard, but she failed to notice Tong Sang sitting on the other side of the table.


    But it didn¡¯t matter since someone was at home. She started knocking again, ¡°Xiaomai, open the door quickly. 1 can see you¡¯re at home.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai only sighed inwardly.


    Knowing the Sun family¡¯s character, she gritted her teeth, stood up and gathered the dried tofu hanging in the yard back into the room, and covered the pot of cooking soy milk. After all that, she went to open the door.


    ¡°Ah, you finally opened the door.¡± The Sun family somehow squeezed a smile on her old face.


    Her gaze unintentionally swept across the courtyard and spotted Tong Sang. The smile on her face froze instantly.


    She then eximed in disbelief, ¡°Tong Sang, why are you here?!¡±


    She swung her gaze incredulously between Tong Sang and Qiao Xiaomai. These two, a man and a woman, were alone together with the gate closed in broad daylight. Good heavens!


    This vixen, this shameless woman!


    Without any doubt, Qiao Xiaomai could guess what the woman was thinking right now. Feeling sour inside, she didn¡¯t bother to go for any exnation, and coldly inquired, ¡°What do you want?¡±


    With a single sentence, she made the uing nders of the Sun family go back down her throat.


    Remembering her purpose, the Sun family forcefully masted her surprised face into a smile, ¡°I came to find you.¡±


    ¡°Why are you looking for me?¡±


    ¡°Your fifth uncle is attending a gathering of schrs. Since they are all schrs, we need to maintain our dignity; I havee to borrow some silver from you,¡± the Sun family exined amidst smiles.


    Fearing that Qiao Xiaomai would not agree, she hastily added, ¡°All the attendees of this gathering are well-known personalities. There are several families in which the heads hold high positions. If your fifth uncle can build good rtionships with them, there will surely be great benefits in the future..¡±

 Chapter 179 - 179: Kneeling Down

    Chapter 179: Kneeling Down


    Trantor: 549690339


    Without hesitation, Qiao Xiaomai replied, ¡°No money, no loans.¡±


    The forced smile on Mrs. Sun¡¯s face instantly copsed. She took a deep breath, and with a stern face said, ¡°Xiaomai, if your fifth uncle bes sessful, you can surely benefit from it as well.¡±


    This gathering was an exchange meeting hosted by Bailu Academy and the Imperial College.


    Due to the headmaster Gu¡¯s influence, Bailu Academy was the biggest and most famous academy in Daqi, but since Gu had already retired, Bailu Academy was only considered a private institute.


    While the Imperial College is the official academy of Daqi and the highest ce of learning.


    Every three years, the two institutes have an exchange meeting, and only the most knowledgeable or noble students are sent to participate.


    This year, the exchange was to be held at Bailu Academy, and Sun Junyan, after much effort, had gotten Fan Jia to agree to attend with him.


    Therefore, after Sun Junyan returned for the Tomb-Sweeping Festival, he made a request to Mrs. Sun: money.


    The exchange meeting wasn¡¯t just about sitting around discussing academics, they would also tour Bailu Town. With so many people attending, he would surely need to spend money to establish rtionships with those who were either schrly or had good backgrounds.


    Moreover, he wanted to have a few silk suits made. After all, the right clothes make the man. He looked decent enough and if he wore expensive clothes, people would surely mistake him for a young lord if they didn¡¯t know his background.


    Holding such expectations, Sun Junyan exaggerated the importance of this exchange meeting to Mrs. Sun, suggesting that if he missed it, he would lose his chance to climb the socialdder.


    Mrs. Sun, terrified by his words, hurried over while Qiao Qinghe was in the fields.


    She approached not only politely but also managed to force a smile on her face, patiently exining the situation to Qiao Xiaomai.


    Mind you, she usually just stole what she wanted, her behavior had really changed!


    However, her newfound humility meant nothing to Qiao Xiaomai.


    ¡°No money, no loans,¡± she repeated.


    ¡°Just fifty taels, just fifty taels. When your fifth uncle bes sessful, he¡¯ll surely pay you back,¡± pleaded Mrs. Sun with newfound patience. Her face was grim, but her tone was reasonable, as if she were negotiating.


    ¡°No money, no loans,¡± Qiao Xiaomai replied in the same manner.


    Considering the thirty taels of silver given by Shopkeeper He yesterday, her savings had finally exceeded a hundred taels. Now, Mrs. Sun wanted to borrow fifty.


    Outrageous!


    ¡°Xiaomai, this truly involves your fifth uncle¡¯s future. As your grandmother, I beg you, he¡¯ll certainly repay you in the future.¡± Mrs. Sun gritted her teeth, nced at Tong Sang sitting in the courtyard, and, with a thud, she unexpectedly knelt before Qiao Xiaomai.


    Sun Junyan¡¯s initial request was for a hundred taels, worrying that Xiaomai wouldn¡¯t lend him so much, she reduced the amount to fifty.


    Who would have thought that Qiao Xiaomai wouldn¡¯t be willing to lend even fifty taels?


    The family sat on a mountain of gold and silver, yet coldly watched her own uncle¡¯s future be ruined.


    Mrs. Sun cursed inwardly, but she feigned a look of extreme distress on her face ¨C she was truly at her wit¡¯s end. Unable to rob, she could only kneel.


    If Qiao Xiaomai still refused even after this, she would definitely sit at the entrance of the vige and curse her for three days before filing a grievance about herck of filial piety in the County Town!


    Both Qiao Xiaomai and Tong Sang hadn¡¯t anticipated Mrs. Sun¡¯s act.


    She used to not treat Qiao Xiaomai as a human being. And now, she was actually kneeling.


    Tong Sang¡¯s brows knitted slightly as he took big strides towards the exit.


    Meanwhile, Qiao Xiaomai internally cursed before quickly stepping aside.


    Bloody hell!


    As someone familiar with the ¡®Daqi Laws¡¯, Qiao Xiaomai knew the implications of this kneeling.. She instinctively ran towards the exit, repeating ¡°Bloody hell! Bloody hell! Bloody hell! What to do now!¡±

 Chapter 180 - 180: Rough and Direct

    Chapter 180: Rough and Direct


    Trantor: 549690339


    When Tong Sang saw Qiao Xiaomai rush out, he immediately said, ¡°Go tell your grandpa what¡¯s happening. Tell him that your grandma is trying to use kneeling and using you of being unfilial to coerce you into turning over the silver. It¡¯s not that you won¡¯t give it, it¡¯s that you simply don¡¯t have that much.¡± lie had immediately guessed Sun Family¡¯s n to use this tactic to force Qiao Xiaomai into submission, so he turned the tables and used it to frame her with a crime.


    ¡°It¡¯s not an issue of yourck of filial piety but her cruelty. She¡¯s so desperate for silver, she¡¯s stooped to using such a method. She doesn¡¯t deserve to be your grandmother!¡±


    ¡°Go bring your grandpa, tie her up and take her to County Town courthouse for justice!¡±


    Naturally, Tong Sang harboured distaste for Sun Family.


    Now he was arranging to marry Qiao Xiaomai and as for Sun Family, this shrewish woman, he was going to deal with her.


    Currently, the left prime minister Yu Ang is Tong Tiehu¡¯s younger brother, and his sixth grandfather.


    Because of this rtionship, every new county magistrate of Huai¡¯an County is appointed by his sixth grandfather. Having the county magistrate try this case and make Sun Family sever ties with Qiao Xiaomai and her family is as easy as lifting a finger.


    He intended to show Qiao Xiaomai his sincerity through his actions.


    Qiao Xiaomai had originally run out of the house out of helplessness but when she heard what Tong Sang had to say, she instantly halted in her tracks.


    Her eyes widened slightly, her face coloured with shock.


    Go to the county magistrate for justice?


    Sun would be able to use her of being unfilial in front of the county magistrate with ease. In the ¡°Daqi Law¡±, there were only punishments for being unfilial, there was nothing about being unkind!


    ¡°Beyond thew, there is justice. The county magistrate will give you justice.¡± Tong Sang said this, nodding at Qiao Xiaomai. His handsome face held an expression of confidence and determination.


    Qiao Xiaomai looked at his handsome face, bit her lip, and headed towards Tong Family.


    Let¡¯s bring over Tong Tiehu first!


    Damn, Sun Family, this shrew, she really wanted to bash her with a bag over her head!


    Sun was dumbfounded.


    Her meticulously thought out n had just beenbelled as being unkind by Tong Sang and she was supposed to be tied up and taken to see the county magistrate?


    This is too simple and brutal!


    Go see the county magistrate? This was right into her ns, but her intentions were not like this at all!


    She aimed to make a greatly vocalint, not be dragged there to stand trial!


    ¡°Tong Sang, if you¡¯re not aware of another family¡¯s hardship, then you shouldn¡¯t interfere in their domestic matters.¡± Sun gritted her teeth, staring resentfully at Tong Sang, as if she were ready to pounce and bite him.


    Tong Sang¡¯s eyes were cool and his gaze towards Sun was very calm. Even the emotion of contempt for a shrew like Sun, he was toozy to show. ¡°Tell all this to the county magistrate. Isn¡¯t that what you want?¡±


    When Sun heard this, her heart trembled fiercely. Howe?


    Did Tong Sang guess her ns?


    She felt a panic inside, but on the surface, she kept herposure, ¡°There are mountains of gold and silver in the house, but she is unwilling to contribute any to help her uncle. Even if this ends up in front of the county magistrate, I will be in the right!¡±


    ¡°And furthermore, Tong Sang, you should think about this carefully. Maybe in the future, she will treat you the same. Do not let her lead you on.¡±


    She¡¯s even trying to stir up trouble.


    Tong Sang twisted up the corner of his mouth into a cold smile. He was already prepared for Qiao Xiaomai to chase him with a knife, even to die under her de, this wasn¡¯t a big deal.


    Tired of dealing with Sun, Tong Sang stepped out of the courtyard, standing at the gate looking out, checking if there were any idlers in the vicinity.


    It was crucial that everyone knew about Sun¡¯s shameless behaviour of kneeling down to her granddaughter to coerce silver out of her. When the magistrate decreed to sever rtions, then none of the townsfolk would have any objections..

 Chapter 181 - 181: Had A Fall

    Chapter 181: Had A Fall


    Trantor: 549690339


    Tong Sang left the courtyard and scanned around, but he saw no one.


    It was not yet noon, and the people were still in the fields.


    He furrowed his brows, about to knock on the door of his neighbor Yang Gun¡¯s house. But a donkey cart appeared from the corner of the street: Qiao Changshun and his son Qiao Dami were returning home.


    Tong Sang¡¯s brows furrowed tighter, the presence of Qiao Changshun made mattersplicated.


    As he suspected, the Sun Family matriarch, who had just been about to return home to discuss with Sun Junyan, saw Qiao Changshun guiding the donkey cart and fell to her knees, crying out, ¡°Changshun, please, I beg you!¡±


    Qiao Changshun had been discussing something with his son Qiao Dami. He had caught a cold from the rain the day before and hisme right leg had begun to ache again.


    During the survey of apple saplings on the slope just now, he lost his footing and fell down the hill.


    Fortunately, he was not injured, though his right leg ached more.


    The pain was bearable for him, so he had decided not to tell Qiao Xiaomai to avoid having her spend money on medication for him.


    But Qiao Dami disagreed.


    Qiao Dami had been warned by Qiao Xiaomai; how could he not inform his sister about something so serious? Despite the grass in the wheat field, he urged Qiao Changshun to go home.


    Qiao Changshun could onlyply, but he was still insistent, and they were discussing the matter all the way home.


    Qiao Dami¡¯s small face was tight, and he remained silent, allowing his father¡¯s incessant rambling.


    However, the piercing wail of the head of the Sun Family caught both their attention, and they unconsciously looked in the direction of the sound.


    They saw the matriarch of the Sun Family kneeling at their doorstep, pping her thighs while crying out, ¡°Changshun, please, I beg you!¡±


    Qiao Dami was stunned.


    The scene made Qiao Changshun panic like a frightened rabbit. He hurriedly jumped down from the donkey cart, ¡°Mother, you¡­ Ah!¡±


    The action startled him so much that he unconsciously forgot that he was now disabled with ame leg.


    Even though the donkey cart was not high and the speed was not fast, he had just rolled down a hill, and hisme right leg was in agonizing pain.


    Hence, before he had a chance to ask about the situation, a spike of intense pain shot through his entire body, making him fall and unable to move.


    Seeing this, Qiao Dami also panicked, ¡°Father!¡±


    He stood up on the donkey cart, preparing to jump down as well.


    ¡°Don¡¯t jump.¡±


    A familiar male voice came. Immediately after, the small body, poised to jump down, fell into a broad and warm embrace. The owner of the embrace gave a light push off from the donkey cart, and hended smoothly on the ground.


    Then he lifted his hand to squeeze his small face, affectionately saying, ¡°Little buddy, what if you also got hurt?¡±


    It was Brother Tong!


    Qiao Dami¡¯srge eyes sparkled. His arms instinctively wrapped around Tong Sang¡¯s neck, ¡°Brother Tong, when did you get here!¡±


    Earlier, he had only noticed the crying and howling Sun Family matriarch and had not noticed anyone else.


    ¡°I¡¯ve been here all along,¡± Tong Sang said with a smile. He bent down to put Qiao Dami on the ground, then turned to look at Qiao Changshun, who copsed on the ground in pain. ¡°Uncle Changshun, let me take you to the doctor.¡±


    Without waiting for Qiao Changshun¡¯s response, he bent down, lifted Qiao Changshun up, and quickly ced him on the donkey cart.


    Seeing this, Qiao Dami quickly followed, ¡°I¡¯ll go too! Where¡¯s my sister?¡±


    ¡°Your sister went to find your Grandpa Tong. You go home first, lock the door from the inside, and wait for your sister toe back before opening it,¡± Tong Sang instructed.


    ¡°Okay!¡± Qiao Dami nodded.


    He trusted Tong Sang as much as he trusted his own sister, Qiao Xiaomai.


    ¡°Wait,¡± Qiao Changshun, sitting on the donkey cart and enduring the pain, looked towards his house, ¡°Sang, what happened to my mother?¡±

 Chapter 182 - 182 Qiao Changshun Makes a Change

    Chapter 182: Qiao Changshun Makes a Change


    Trantor: 549690339


    Despite the pain that caused cold sweat to spring on his forehead, Tong Sang still felt for the Sun Family. He quietly sighed, the devotion was not earthshaking, but it was touching.


    What a pity, it was all wasted on deaf ears.


    ¡°She came to ask Miss Qiao for a loan because of Sun Junyan, fifty taels of silver. Miss Qiao doesn¡¯t have that much money so she knelt down, nning to pressure Miss Qiao into giving her the money.¡± Tong Sang sinctly detailed the events in a thoughtful, concise manner.


    ¡°Now Miss Qiao has gone to speak with my grandfather.¡±


    ¡°I think, if Miss Qiao ultimately refuses to give the fifty taels, she¡¯ll probably go to County Town to use Miss Qiao of filial impropriety.¡±


    Qiao Changsun


    He forgets about the pain in his leg, feeling as if his entire being had plunged into an ice cer.


    He was dutiful to the point of burdening his own family. But now, his own mother, for the sake of his fifth brother, was kneeling before his daughter, forcing her to give up her money.


    His eyes involuntarily filled with heat, and he lifted his hand to wipe them, murmuring, ¡°Mom, Xiaomai doesn¡¯t have that much money.¡±


    He knew exactly how much money Qiao Xiaomai had. It had barely reached a hundred taels before Sun¡¯s sudden demand for fifty taels ¨C this was too much.


    Next month they would harvest wheat, and they would have to hire people, which would require a substantial amount of expense.


    He had always thought that he would give whatever was asked by the Sun Family because she was his own mother.


    But now, Sun¡¯s actions were outrageous, too outrageous¡­


    He couldn¡¯t unreservedly give anymore. He could disregard it himself, but he had a daughter and a son. How could Sun use his daughter for her own son¡¯s sake¡­.


    The angrier he thought about it, the more Qiao Changsun rubbed his eyes.


    At this point in his life, this man who had been foolishly dutiful for decades, except for crying, was unable to offer any more usations or counterattacks against Sun.


    ¡°Out of money? Who would believe that she¡¯s out of money? She¡¯s sold four recipes!¡± Sun cried out.


    ¡°Her cold jelly noodles sold for a few dozen taels, the tofu and bean curd were traded fornds. She doesn¡¯t have the money now,¡± Qiao Changsun replied with a note of exhaustion.


    ¡°What?!¡± Sun, hearing this, lost colour in surprise. ¡°She traded them fornd?! How much?!¡±


    ¡°Two recipes, for three hundred acres ofnd. Now she¡¯s worried about the money to pay thebourers for the wheat harvest, there really isn¡¯t any surplus,¡± For the first time, he refused, and subsequent refusals became easier.


    ¡°Last time you and Meipan had a falling out, there really is no money at home.¡± Remembering thest incident, Qiao Changsun added another line.


    Sun was stupefied.


    She had always thought that Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s house was filled with gold and silver, but now Qiao Changsun said that those recipes were traded fornd!


    Three hundred acres ofnd sounded alot, but it¡¯s not handy right now, they couldn¡¯t possibly ask Qiao Xiaomai to sell it off, right?


    She wouldn¡¯t even lend money, let alone sellnd, Sun quickly dismissed the idea.


    What to do?


    Without money, her Xiaowu¡¯s life was stagnated!


    What should she do?!


    Sun was now worried, shocked and fearful. She kneeled on the ground, dumbfounded.


    More confusing to her, Qiao Xiaomai and Tong Tiehu appeared.


    Qiao Xiaomai had met Tong Tiehu halfway, so she returned very quickly.


    Behind Tong Tiehu were three women. He had bumped into them on the road and called them over to restrain Sun.


    Once Qiao Xiaomai had repeated Tong Sang¡¯s story, Tong Tiehu had immediately grasped his grandson¡¯s implication. He also supported breaking ties with Sun, a woman of such instability.


    ¡°Sang, get the ropes. You three, guard Sun.¡± Tong Tiehu hadn¡¯t reached her yet but he was already issuing orders..

 Chapter 183 - 183: Take Me to See the Doctor

    Chapter 183: Take Me to See the Doctor


    Trantor: 549690339


    Tong Tiehu was firm and decisive, and the three women along with Tong Sang immediately sprang into action.


    Sun Family, who was originally worried and panicking, was now truly terrified. She immediately thought of her unpleasant experience of being tied upst time as she stared at the three women rushing towards her.


    So, her wail of despair became a real wail, ¡°Changshun, Changshun! I am your real mother, are you just going to watch me being taken away to the County Town?¡±


    She also understood that the only person she could rely on was Qiao Changshun, her kind and soft-hearted second son.


    Seeing this, Tong Sang raised his eyebrows, ¡°Shut her up.¡±


    Upon hearing this, one of the women reached out to gag Sun Family.


    Now, Sun Family¡¯s outcry turned into unclear wails.


    Tong Sang was satisfied and took a rope from Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s house.


    Qiao Xiaomai, worried that Qiao Changshun might soften, hurriedly took a few steps to reach the donkey cart and whispered to her father, ¡°Dad, you¡­,¡±


    She was interrupted by Qiao Dami, ¡°Sister, our father just fell down from the hill and then jumped off the donkey cart. He fell twice! He was crying in pain.¡±


    She had seen Qiao Changshun wiping his tears.


    What?!


    He fell twice!


    Qiao Xiaomai was shocked and quickly turned her attention to Qiao Changshun¡¯s right leg, ¡°Dad, are you okay? I¡¯ll take you to the doctor!¡±


    She said as she reached out to lead the donkey.


    Just perfectly, she also avoided the entanglement of Sun Family.


    Qiao Changshun was sitting in the donkey cart, holding his right leg with one hand and covering his eyes with the other.


    He heard Sun Family¡¯s wailing in his ears, a pain in his heart.


    He wanted to speak to console her, but the words that Tong Sang had spoken were swallowed back.


    Not okay, Sun Family had gone too far this time.


    She had gone to use his daughter for Sun Junyan. She¡¯s a person too!


    ¡°Let¡¯s go to the doctor,¡± he said, his voice hoarse.


    Seeing this, Qiao Xiaomai was stunned. Qiao Changshun didn¡¯t stop them!


    Had the torment of these days really worked?


    Amazed in her heart, she didn¡¯t show it on her face at all, but took the donkey around and prepared to go to Doctor Wu¡¯s house.


    However, when she thought of sending Sun Family to County Town, she would also need to go. Turning to Tong Tiehu, she said, ¡°Grandpa Tong, can you wait until Ie back from Doctor Wu¡¯s?¡±


    ¡°Yes, wait until you twoe back.¡± Tong Tiehu beckoned.


    For cutting the family ties, Qiao Changshun must be present.


    He had not thought to hide this from Qiao Changshun.


    By now, Tong Sang hade out with the rope. Hearing her words, he immediately said, ¡°I¡¯ll also go.¡±


    As he spoke, he came to the front of the donkey, took hold of the reins of the donkey.


    Qiao Xiaomai also held the reins. He was standing in front of her, making her feel breathless, she felt oppressed¡ªshe only reached his shoulder.


    His shoulders were broad, and with his long arm holding the reins, it seemed as if she was sandwiched between him and the donkey.


    She couldn¡¯t tell if this was intentional or not, she frowned, let go of the reins and stepped back two steps.


    With a stern face and a nk expression, she stared at him.


    This stinky male, ah no, teenager.


    This teenager, who hadn¡¯t grown a full set of hair, wanted to marry her and even listed the pros and cons to articte why he liked her.


    Ugh!


    After dealing with Sun Family, if he continues to bother her, she¡¯ll give him a taste of his own medicine!


    Tong Sang¡¯s pitch-ck eyes met her gaze. He seemed to not realize the threat shown on her face, and innocently said with his handsome face, ¡°Get on the cart quickly, Uncle Changshun fell hard.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Qiao Xiaomai gritted her teeth, gave him a bad look, and turned around to get on the donkey cart.


    Tong Sang¡¯s mouth curled up slightly, he tightened his grip on the reins, leading the donkey towards Doctor Wu¡¯s house..

 Chapter 184 - 184: You Are the Real Unfilial One

    Chapter 184: You Are the Real Unfilial One


    Trantor: 549690339


    Tong Sang and Qiao Xiaomai took Qiao Changshun to the doctor. After getting the injury checked and picking up the medicine, it was already noon when they were returning.


    By this time, quite a few people had gathered at the entrance of the Qiao family house. Qiao Qinghe, Sun Junyan, Qiao Changfu, Zhu Cuiying, and Qiao Meipan were all present.


    For a family dispute, Qiao Qinghe had to be present.


    Today¡¯s situation was caused by Sun Junyan, so naturally, he also had to be there.


    When Qiao Xiaomai, Tong Sang, and Qiao Changshun returned, Qiao Qinghe was making a friendly face towards Tong Tiehu, while Sun Junyan was standing by the side without uttering a word.


    Despite being very annoyed by the actions of the Sun family and Sun Junyan, Qiao Qinghe still did not want this kind of scandal to reach the County Town.


    ¡°Xiaomai is back,¡± Tong Tiehu pointed to the donkey cart at the street corner.


    This matter was about Qiao Xiaomai as the victim, so he looked to her for her opinion.


    Seeing this, Qiao Qinghe quickly went to greet them, looking anxious, ¡°Xiaomai! Is your father alright?¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s fine,¡± Qiao Xiaomai, sitting on the donkey cart and looking at the people at the door, had her small face tightly strained.


    Qiao Changshun naturally saw Qiao Qinghe too. He had just applied herbal medicine to his leg and the pain had somewhat subsided, but the pain in his heart would not lessen.


    He only nced at Qiao Qinghe before lowering his head, his attitude very clear: if he really had to choose between the Sun family and Qiao Xiaomai, he would choose Qiao Xiaomai.


    The Sun family had even resorted to kneeling down for the sake of Sun Junyan.


    Being Xiaomai¡¯s biological father, he naturally had to take a stand too.


    Seeing Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s stern face, Qiao Qinghe immediately felt disheartened.


    Seeing Qiao Changshun lower his head, he was even more dispirited.


    Is it possible that they will really take the Sun family to the County Town today?


    Sun Junyan, who had been standing by and silent, clenched his teeth and said, ¡°Father, you don¡¯t need to persuade any more. To the County Town we go. At that time, we¡¯ll see whose side the County Magistrate truly stands on!¡±


    ¡°Daqi Law¡± which he had read many times only stiptes the punishment for disobedience, there is no provision for unkindness.


    As long as they insist that Qiao Changshun and Qiao Xiaomai are disobedient, then, in the end, only Qiao Changshun and Qiao Xiaomai would be punished.


    ¡°Shut up!¡± Qiao Qinghe sternly rebuked, ¡°It was you who caused all this trouble. You should apologize to your second brother at once!¡±


    ¡°Father, I don¡¯t understand. 1 have legitimate needs, how did they be trouble in your eyes?¡± Sun Junyan¡¯s expression was gloomy as water.


    The tri-annual exchange meeting, what a great opportunity!


    This was his stepping stone to rise higher, why couldn¡¯t even his own father understand him?


    What¡¯s wrong with using the family¡¯s full resources to cultivate someone with status and position?


    Yes, he had previously exploited Qiao Changshun¡¯s family, and to an excessive degree. But he never thought about reneging on his duties.


    Once he gained power and status, he wouldpensate!


    Whether it was Qiao Changshun or his other three older brothers, he wouldpensate all of them.


    Invest a little bit now andter get even more money and benefits, why couldn¡¯t these people understand!


    Sun Junyan¡¯s righteous indignation made Qiao Qinghe hurt in his chest. He took a few deep breaths, ready to retort angrily when Tong Sang, who had walked over leading the donkey, spoke first.


    ¡°Sun Junyan, do you realize that your so-called legitimate needs forced your own mother to kneel in front of your second brother and niece?¡±


    ¡°A filial person would feel remorse upon seeing this. And what about you?¡±


    ¡°Initially, you made a mockery of your second brother¡¯s family, now you¡¯re making a mockery of your own mother.¡±


    ¡°For the sake of your legitimate needs you have pushed your mother to such a state, now she kneels for the sake of money, do you mean to kill for money next time?¡±


    ¡°Sun Junyan, you are the real unfilial one..¡±

 Chapter 185 - 185: Mixed Doubles

    Chapter 185: Mixed Doubles


    Trantor: 549690339


    You¡¯re the real unfilial one.


    Upon hearing these words, Sun Junyan¡¯s face instantly turned the colour of pig liver. He subconsciously clenched his fists, ring fiercely at Tong Sang with his eyes filled with jealousy, ¡°What do you know! As the grandson of the vige chief, you could never understand the hardships my family faces!¡±


    The Tong family, being smallndowners and shop owners, could never understand the bitter feeling of not being able to afford even a single silk garment!


    And yet here he stands using him, Bah!


    It¡¯s so easy to talk when you¡¯re the one standing!


    Tong Sang raised an eyebrow and ayer of contempt appeared on his handsome face, ¡°No matter how down and out I am, 1 would never resort to trading my parents¡¯ dignity for a future.¡±


    ¡°There are many schrs with financial difficulties, but you¡¯re the only one in the whole Daqi who forced his mother to kneel for money.¡±


    ¡°You want to see the county magistrate? Go ahead, let¡¯s see how he handles this.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right, let¡¯s go and see the county magistrate.¡± Qiao Xiaomai jumped down from the donkey cart, her gaze cold as she looked at Sun Junyan, a mocking smile yed on her lips, ¡°Uncle Sun, a month ago my family was so poor that my grandmother wanted my father to sell me to a brothel.¡±


    ¡°And now? Now, you need to borrow money from me.¡±


    Sheughed coldly, ¡°Real achievers earn their own money, not force their mothers to kneel before others.¡±


    ¡°You im to be a schr and consider yourself superior, but in truth, you¡¯re no different from the idle vagrants in the vige.¡±


    ¡°I, Qiao Xiaomai, spit on you.¡±


    Upon hearing these words, Sun Junyan¡¯s facial colour turned from pig liver to dark purple, as if he was poisoned. His eyes were bloodshot, his nails digging fiercely into his palms, but he felt no pain.


    Tong Sang¡¯s words were like blows to his face.


    And before he could protest, Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s words added another blow.


    This man and woman certainly seemed to want to make his face swell up.


    His head felt somewhat dizzy from the rage, and he bit his tongue hard. The sharp pain and the taste of blood cleared his mind somewhat.


    His blood-red eyes bore into Qiao Xiaomai, resembling a frenzied animal, ¡°What do you know! Schrs only make their names after passing the Imperial Examination!¡±


    Earning silver now?


    Once 1 be an official, the money will naturallye!


    ¡°Schrs can earn money by writing letters and couplets for others, and if your writing is good, you can even copy things for the bookstore. In truth, you¡¯re simply too proud to lower yourself and do such work.¡± Contempt deepened on Tong Sang¡¯s handsome face.


    ¡°That¡¯s right, you want respect and money? Where in the world is such a good deal?¡± Qiao Xiaomai chimed in, a cold smile still on her face.


    ¡°If someone who can remain indifferent while watching his mother kneel for others bes an official, god knows what atrocities he mightmit.¡± Tong Sang added.


    Qiao Xiaomai nodded wholeheartedly, ¡°To prevent harm to the people in the future, 1 think I should go to the Academy and tell your teacher about all of this.¡±


    Going to the Academy to make things public?


    Thinking about the reaction from his teachers and ssmates, Sun Junyan swayed and his face turned even darker with terror.


    Originally confident, he found himself bewildered by the teaming up of Tong Sang and Qiao Xiaomai.


    With their back and forth, they exposed the darkest and most secret thoughts of his heart for all to see.


    He felt as though he were naked, being looked upon by everyone with contempt.


    After a few more trembles, his vision darkened, and he could no longer support himself and copsed..

 Chapter 186 - 186: Severing Ties

    Chapter 186: Severing Ties


    Trantor: 549690339


    Sun Junyan was put into a stupor due to Qiao Xiaomai and Tong Sang.


    But, the matter today was not over yet.


    Tong Tiehu made a sweeping gesture with his hand and said, ¡°To the County Town.¡±


    The ox-cart from his household had been brought over a moment ago, and Lady Sun was thrown onto it with two women keeping her firmly in ce, one on each side.


    Upon seeing this, Qiao Qinghe grew anxious, they couldn¡¯t possibly be heading to the County Town, could they?


    Indeed, they were making a trip to the County Town.


    Qiao Xiaomai was resolute, and naturally, Tong Sang and Tong Tiehu followed suit.


    ¡°Xiaomai, Xiaomai, your grandmother promises she will never dare to behave badly again, truly!¡± Qiao Qinghe stood before Qiao Xiaomai and pleaded with her in a low voice.


    ¡°Grandfather, Uncle Wu has lost consciousness, do you still believe that grandmother won¡¯te to trouble me again?¡± Qiao Xiaomai gazed at Qiao Qinghe with crystal clear pupils.


    Qiao Qinghe choked, knowing Lady Sun¡¯s temperament, she might resort to even more unreasonable fits of rage in the future¡­


    Qiao Qinghe fell silent, Qiao Xiaomai locked the courtyard gate and, together with Qiao Dami, climbed onto the donkey cart.


    Tong Sang also mbered on, taking up the reins.


    ¡°Qinghe,e on up and take the reins.¡± Tong Tiehu called out to Qiao Qinghe to get on the ox-cart.


    Qiao Qinghe hesitated in ce for a moment before sighing deeply and walking over asmanded.


    Leaving Qiao Changfu to take Sun Junyan home, they set out in a cart drawn by an ox and one drawn by a donkey.


    Anping Vige was quite a distance from Huai¡¯an County, it would be a lengthy journey. Upon reaching the County Town, Tong Tiehu led the group to have lunch at an eatery before leisurely heading towards the County Government Office.


    The local magistrate of Huai¡¯an County was surnamed Dai, a man of the Left Chancellor, Yu Ang, and had been serving in this position for six years.


    Leading such an entourage, Tong Tiehu proceeded as per usual course. They began by sounding the drum, and only after the court was put together did they enter the government office.


    On the Main Hall, two lines of court constables stood sternly on each side, with onlookers from outside watching the scene.


    The two women guarding Lady Sun were trembling, their heads bowed down, this being their first experience in a government office.


    Lady Sun, being bound, looked terrified at the sight of the austere and formidable constables, wishing she could faint at that very moment.


    She hadn¡¯t expected Tong Tiehu to genuinely bring her here. What awaited her next?


    Heavens!


    Qiao Xiaomai and Qiao Dami supported Qiao Changsun on either side, following behind Tong Tiehu. As soon as they saw Tong Tiehu kneeling, they too knelt down.


    Tong Tiehu gave an ount of all the sins umted by Lady Sun over the years, and finally suggested: it was truly unfortunate for Qiao Changsun¡¯s family to have an elder like Lady Sun. To prevent Lady Sun from continuing to cause trouble under the guise of an elder, it was necessary to cut off the family ties between Lady Sun and Qiao Changsun.


    As soon as these words were spoken, Qiao Qinghe froze.


    Qiao Changsun was dumbstruck.


    Lady Sun became dumfounded.


    All three had thought that Lady Sun would receive corporal punishment, or perhaps be detained for a few days. They never expected Tong Tiehu to bring up severing family ties.


    ¡°This, this¡­¡± Qiao Changsun looked at Qiao Xiaomai, his lips trembling. Although he was angry at Lady Sun¡¯s actions, he had never considered disowning her.


    Lady Sun was his mother, the rtionship they shared was as inseparable as joints from their bones.


    How could rtions be severed?


    Qiao Xiaomai was slightly taken aback; she did not expect Tong Tiehu to make this move either.


    Turning her gaze, she whispered, ¡°Dad, this disowning is only in name, in order to prevent grandmother from taking advantage of her elder status to cause trouble in the future.¡±


    ¡°But rest assured, our daily reverence towards her won¡¯t be diminished, we will honor her even more in the future.¡±


    ¡°But she is your grandmother¡­¡± Qiao Changsun still found it hard to ept.


    A mother, no matter how foolish, is still a mother. How could they disown her? How could they¡­.?

 Chapter 187 - 187: Asking the County Master to

    Chapter 187: Asking the County Master to


    Stand up for the Sun Family


    Trantor: 549690339


    Qiao Changshun looked as if he had been struck by lightning, hesitating and trembling, unable to articte his thoughts.


    Qiao Xiaomai had no particr reaction to this. She had never held any expectations towards Qiao Changshun; she would be contented if he altered his attitude, and she would not be upset if he didn¡¯t.


    After all, the control of the silver and grains were in her hands. Qiao Changshun¡¯s opinion wasn¡¯t that important.


    So she lowered her voice and said, ¡°Father, are you hoping that in the future, grandmother would use her status as an elder to bully me? She is an elder, she can hit me, scold me, and I have no way to retaliate.¡±


    At her words, Qiao Changshun¡¯s lips trembled again.


    He had witnessed too many of Sun Family¡¯s outbursts, and recalling each one was heart-wrenching.


    ¡°Father, have you forgotten how grandmother used to beat my mother? She almost beat her to death. Today, 1 have made Uncle Five faint with anger, do you think she will let me off?¡± asked Qiao Xiaomai.


    Now, Qiao Changshun was not just feeling anxious, a mist began to cloud his eyes.


    He still remembered the battered state of Zhuang Luhe covered in blood, on the brink of death.


    Qiao Xiaomai had been watching his expression. Seeing that he was wavering, she said, ¡°Father, don¡¯t worry. It¡¯s only a symbolic disowning to prevent grandmother from abusing her status as an elder in the future, we won¡¯t forget to respect her as we should.¡±


    ¡°We will always remember her kindness in raising you.¡±


    The kindness of nurturing him was the main reason for Qiao Changshun¡¯s obedience over the years.


    Seeing Qiao Xiaomai saying she wouldn¡¯t forget, he trembled and seemed to want to nod his agreement.


    Sun Family¡¯s ferocity was too terrifying¡­


    He himself could endure it, but he must consider Qiao Xiaomai.


    ¡°What about your grandfather?¡± He couldn¡¯t help but ask.


    ¡°Of course, we won¡¯t disown grandfather, only grandmother.¡± Qiao Xiaomai said, ¡°It¡¯s only symbolic, besides preventing grandmother from causing trouble with her status as an elder, everything else remains the same.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Qiao Changshun¡¯s lips trembled again.


    But now, this wasn¡¯t because of shock, but because he wanted to agree.


    However, the two words ¡°disown¡± were too shocking for him. He hesitated for a moment and still didn¡¯t give a reply.


    He didn¡¯t respond but Qiao Xiaomai took it as his consent. She then turned her attention to Tong Tiehu who knelt at the very front.


    Tong Tiehu seemed to be aware and quickly said, ¡°Your honour, although Sun Family is detestable, she fought for her son, Sun Junyan.¡±


    ¡°Sun Junyan forced his mother to kneel to his niece and brother for his own future, which is unfilial. 1 beseech your honour to seek justice for Sun Family.¡±


    Upon hearing these words, Sun Family continued to be stunned.


    Qiao Qinghe continued to be dazed.


    Qiao Changshun continued to be bewildered.


    However, as this involved her darling son, after being stunned for a moment, Sun Family began to struggle fiercely.


    Seek justice, my foot!


    She hadn¡¯t noticed any sign of Sun Junyan¡¯s unfilial behaviour, her younger son had always been her darling!


    She didn¡¯t want the magistrate to seek justice for her at all!


    But her struggle was futile. Two women held her down tightly, she could only writhe on the ground like a worm, making sobbing noises.


    No one paid any attention to her struggle.


    The county magistrate, sitting high on the tform, stroked his beard and said seriously, ¡°This boy¡¯s behaviour is indeed a disgrace to schrs, where is he?¡±


    ¡°Your honour, he was too shocked and fainted just now.¡±


    ¡°When you return to Anping Vige, carry out the punishment on my behalf. Fiftyshes and parading him through the streets,¡± ordered the county magistrate.


    ¡°Yes, sir,¡± Tong Tiehu respectfully responded..

 Chapter 188 - 188: The Sin of a Father Who Raises but Does Not Educate

    Chapter 188: The Sin of a Father Who Raises but Does Not Educate


    Trantor: 549690339


    Fifty strokes.


    Parade through the streets.


    She tossed these two punishments around in her mind, imagining the scenario. Her struggle intensified, and a sound akin to the howl of a wild beast came from her mouth.


    Unfortunately, her struggles were quashed once again by two women.


    Iler beast-like roar was muffled in her mouth, onlying out as meaningless whimpers.


    Her cries to the heavens went unheard, her pleas to the earth fruitless. For the first time, she felt utterly powerless.


    She was even more terrified than when Junyan had asked her for a hundred taels of silver.


    Back then, she could still exploit Xiaomai, at least she knew she had that option.


    But what about now?


    The magistrate of Huai¡¯an County had given his order!


    To her understanding, the magistrate was the highest official.


    When the highest authority had spoken, what could she, a meremoner, do?


    The more she thought about it, the more anxious she became. Tears welled up in her eyes, and she looked at Qiao Qinghe. Qiao Qinghe was the head of the family, and at this moment, she pinned all her hopes on him.


    Qiao Qinghe was kneeling nearby, already recovered from his initial shock.


    His expression was constantly changing.


    Cutting off ties, he had once contemted divorcing Sun, but now he had no particr feelings towards it. His initial surprise gave way to calmness.


    The Qiao family cutting of ties with Sun was good news.


    However, the punishment inflicted on Junyan by the magistrate was something he couldn¡¯t ept.


    Despite his anger at Junyan¡¯s actions, after all, he was his biological son whom he had cherished for many years.


    Even if there were to be a punishment, it should be him, behind closed doors, doing the punishing.


    Now that the magistrate had made the decree and the public humiliation was going tomence, would it affect Junyan¡¯s future chances in the Imperial Examination?


    After all, Junyan, whom they had spent ten years nurturing, was their hope and hard work. If Junyan were to fall now¡­


    He gritted his teeth and tried to plead, ¡°Magistrate, my son, he¡­¡±


    ¡°Regardless of his actions, he hasmitted a grave crime of filial piety and vited the ¡®Daqi Law.¡¯ I am merely executing the ¡®Daqi Law.¡¯ Do you object?¡± The magistrate interrupted him, looking down at him with a stern visage.


    ¡°The fault lies with the parent for not teaching his child correctly. It is also your responsibility for letting things turn out this way.¡±


    The Fault of the Father for not Teaching.


    At these six words, a wave of shame instantly enveloped Qiao Qinghe.


    Yes, Junyan was his student, how could he have the face to plead now?


    He looked dejected, kneeling on the ground, not speaking a word.


    Seeing that he remained silent, the magistrate was satisfied. He raised his hand to stroke his beard, pronouncing the final judgement, ¡°From this day forth, the Qiao family will cut all ties with Sun. She will no longer be able to exploit and extort from the Qiao household under the identity of a senior rtive. If she does, she will be viting the ¡®Daqi Law.''¡±


    ¡°Junyan, for forcing his mother to kneel and beg, has disgraced the reputation of all schrs. Fifty strokes and a parade through the streets.¡±


    ¡°Court is adjourned.¡±


    With a strike of his gavel, the magistrate stood up and retreated into the inner chamber.


    The bailiffs stood still on either side, ring at the few people left in the room, their fierce expressions clearly urging them to leave.


    Tiehu, upon seeing this, hurriedly stood up and beckoned everyone to leave quickly, ¡°Come on, let¡¯s head back to the vige.¡±


    Tong Sang rose to his feet, and the two women pulled Sun up as well.


    Xiaomai and Dami helped Qiao Changshun stand up together.


    Changshun looked at Qiao Qinghe who was still kneeling on the ground, and with a trembling voice, he called out ¡°father.¡±


    Whether it was cutting ties with Sun or the punishment of Junyan, both of these incidents left him feeling uneasy, and he dared not face Qiao Qinghe.


    Qiao Qinghe wiped his face with his hand and stood up.


    What could he say about creating today¡¯s situation?


    The fault of the father for not teaching, he too was responsible¡­.

 Chapter 189 - 189: Doubts Arise

    Chapter 189: Doubts Arise


    Trantor: 549690339


    After leaving the County Government Office, the group walked silently back to Anping Vige.


    By the time they reached the vige, it was evening. Tong Tiehu didn¡¯t return to the Tong family home but had Qiao Qinghe drive the ox cart to the vige threshing grounds.


    The so-called threshing grounds of Anping vige were small due to therge poption, so everyone set up their own threshing area in their own fields. The vige threshing grounds had lost their original purpose and were only used for meetings or announcements.


    Whether it was the breaking of the Qiao Family¡¯s engagement to the Sun Family, or Sun Junyan being beaten, these events were regarded as significant matters in Anping Vige, demanding the gathering of all vigers as witnesses.


    At this evening hour, apart from busy farming times, most people who worked in the fields had returned to the vige.


    Tong Tiehu had his nephew drive the ox cart to fetch Sun Junyan, while he rang the massive bell in the threshing ground.


    The iron bell resounded with a long and mncholy toll, spreading out from the threshing grounds and drifting across Anping Vige.


    At the sound of the bell, at least one person from each household came out and headed towards the threshing ground.


    Along the way, people engaged in heated discussions, wondering what had happened.


    Tong¡¯s nephew went to the old Qiao courtyard, where Sun Junyan had already regained consciousness. He was lying in bed, his face pale.


    Upon seeing Tong¡¯s nephew, his face showed even greater resentment. Just as he was about to speak, Tong¡¯s nephew, with an air of superiority, dered his intentions: ¡°Fifty strokes, public humiliation parade.¡±


    These five words packed a punch, shocking Sun Junyan to the point where he almost passed out again.


    Tong¡¯s nephew smirked, walked up to him, dragged him out by his clothes, and threw him onto the ox cart, ¡°Don¡¯t resist, it¡¯s useless.¡±


    How could he not resist? This was public humiliation and corporal punishment!


    Tong the nephew, seeing his reaction, simply knocked him out. Catching a glimpse of Zhu Cuiying and Qiao Changfu peeking from inside the house, his smirk held a deeper chill, ¡°You should alsoe and watch.¡±


    Having said this, he drove the ox cart to the threshing ground.


    When he arrived, the threshing ground was already filled with people, with Tong Tiehu and Qiao Xiaomai standing on the main stage in the center, standing out in the crowd.


    He parked the ox cart and tied the ox to a nearby tree. Holding the unconscious Sun Junyan, he pushed his way through the crowd to the stage.


    Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s small face was wan, her glistening almond eyes watching Tong¡¯s nephewing from the crowd. A sh of dark emotions could be seen in her eyes.


    Naturally, she was satisfied with the County Magistrate¡¯s ruling.


    But the atmosphere at the meeting¡­


    Why did it seem a bit strange?


    Today was the Sun Family¡¯s trial, under normal circumstances, they would at least be given a chance to defend themselves.


    But they weren¡¯t.


    Based solely on Tong Tiehu¡¯s testimony, the County Magistrate had rendered his judgment.


    Only listening to the intiff without permitting the defendant to speak, if the County Magistrate always ruled like this, then how many miscarriages of justice would ur?


    With Dean Gu here, the County Magistrate wouldn¡¯t be this childish, would he¡­?


    Maybe it was because Tong Tiehu was familiar with the County Magistrate, so he trusted him?


    Recalling the confidence on Tong¡¯s nephew¡¯s face when he asked her to invite Tong Tiehu, she frowned in thought.


    Were Tong Tiehu and the County Magistrate this close?


    At this point, Tong¡¯s nephew, holding Sun Junyan, climbed up onto the tform and stood beside her.


    She fluttered her long eyshes a few times and moved a few steps to the side.


    Forget it, it seems that there are also many secrets to Tong¡¯s nephew, so for now, she wouldn¡¯t think about it. She would focus on the drama unfolding.


    She was looking forward to the expressions on the faces of the Sun family and Sun Junyan.


    The Sun family and Sun Junyan did not disappoint her. After Tong Tiehu announced the decision to disengage their families, the thousands on the scene burst into a buzz of discussion.


    Most of it was mockery.


    Everyone was aware of the Sun family¡¯s actions and agreed they had gone too far.


    But to break off a family rtionship¡­.

 Chapter 190 - 190: Fight

    Chapter 190: Fight


    Trantor: 549690339


    ¡°The older generation didn¡¯t support many, fearing that their descendants would start to emte Qiao Xiaomai.


    But now that the County Magistrate had issued an order, even if they didn¡¯t support it, they had no choice but to remain silent, watching as the younger generation around them used the Sun Family on the stage.


    These usations naturally reached the ears of the Sun Family.


    A son severing ties with his mother was unprecedented in Anping Vige.


    No, not just in Anping Vige ¨C in her several decades of life, this was a first.


    At this moment, the ridicule from the crowd felt like nails, each one piercing her body, causing her to bleed.


    But this was not the most painful part.


    The most painful part was what Sun Junyan had to face next. Her darling son, who had never suffered like this before!


    She gritted her teeth, ring fiercely at Tong Tiehu, wishing she could rush him and bite him.


    Tong Tiehupletely ignored her furious gaze, signaling slightly to Tong Sang.


    Tong Sang bent down, pressed twice on the back of Sun Junyan¡¯s neck, and Sun Junyan quickly regained consciousness.


    Seeing this, Tong Tiehu immediately ordered his men to start.


    Sun Junyan, at first confused, saw four men approaching him, holding tools in their hands, he suddenly remembered his predicament and immediately shouted, ¡°1 don¡¯t believe it, I don¡¯t believe it! I want to see the County Magistrate!¡±


    It was Qiao Xiaomai and Qiao Changshun who were unfilial, why was he the one being punished!


    Tong Tiehu snorted, ¡°Daring to question the County Magistrate¡¯s judgment, add ten more strokes. Enough prattle, start.¡±


    At his words, the four men immediately surrounded Sun Junyan. Three held him down on a bench, leaving the fourth man, who was holding a stick, to ruthlessly strike his buttocks.


    Normally, the vigers respected Sun Junyan, the schr. But now that the County Magistrate had ordered it, Sun Junyan had no hope of overturning the order.


    So, they put their full strength into it. Strike.


    Sun Junyan, who had been spoiled by his mother since childhood, rarely worked in the fields, let alone suffered this kind of punishment.


    Moreover, being punished before a public crowd, being watched by all those he looked down upon.


    At this moment, the double humiliation of physical and mental pain made him wish he were dead, wishing he could find a crack in the ground to crawl into.


    But obviously, there were no such cracks in the threshing field. He could only endure this double pain.


    At first, feeling humiliated, he gritted his teeth and endured. But the sticknding on his buttocks hurt more each time. After a few blows, he couldn¡¯t bear it anymore and started screaming.


    Horrific howls echoed throughout the threshing field.


    The dignity and self-esteem of a schr were utterly trampled upon.


    After today, his aloof and arrogant demeanor disyed in front of the vigers of Anping Vige would no longer exist.


    In the eyes of the vigers of Anping Vige, he was no longer the schr with a promising future, but a beast who forced his mother to kneel for the sake of his own career.


    Sun¡¯s mother stood aside, crying and wanting to charge at the few men, but she was held back by two women.


    Qiao Qinghe stood nearby with his head bowed, his face showing no pride for raising such a beast of a son.


    Qiao Changfu and his brothers hid among the crowd below, not daring to show their faces.


    Sun Junyan was their hope. However, at a time like this, with Tong Tiehu executing the order on behalf of the County Magistrate, who dared to interrupt?


    So, Sun Junyan was subjected to a full sixty strokes. By the end, the clothes on his buttocks were soaked in blood, and he was on the verge of unconsciousness.


    He, a weak schr, couldn¡¯t endure such severe punishment.


    However, the punishment was not finished. Tong Tiehu ordered two men to drag him around for a public humiliation.


    First, they circled around Anping Vige, then they went around the main streets, making sure everyone saw the miserable state of Sun Junyan.


    By the time the public humiliation was finished, Sun Junyan had fainted, bloody all over..

 Chapter 191 - 191: The Secret is Exposed

    Chapter 191: The Secret is Exposed


    Trantor: 549690339


    Sun Junyan was in quite a sorry state.


    His hair was disheveled, and he was covered in blood.


    This sight was a bit shocking for the ordinary folk in the small vige.


    But by this time, it was getting dark and everyone couldn¡¯t see very clearly.


    Tong Tiehu ordered someone to throw Sun Junyan in front of the old Qiao Family house, and he also let the two women who had been restraining the Sun Family go.


    The Sun Family matron, who had been tied up for most of the day, was finally released. Ignoring trouble from Tong Tiehu, Qiao Xiaomai, and Qiao Qinghe, she let out a horrifying scream and cried as she threw herself at Sun Junyan.


    At this point, her hair was in a mess, her expression fierce, on the verge of a breakdown.


    ¡°Carry him in, carry him in, don¡¯t dy his treatment,¡± a slightly impatient fifty-something Dr. Wu ordered Qiao Changfu and his brothers.


    Earlier, during the procession through the vige, Tong Tiehu had sent for Dr. Wu to wait at the Qiao Family Old House to treat Sun Junyan as soon as possible.


    As a Vige Chief, even while settling personal vendettas, Tong Tiehu would always maintain a magnificent spectacle.


    Upon seeing Dr. Wu, Mrs. Sun no longer had time to cry, she immediately ordered Qiao Changfu and his brothers to carry Sun Junyan into their house.


    Tong Tiehu watched the scene with cold eyes, then waved his hand to disperse the crowd.


    With the day turning into night, everyone had had their fill of the excitement and returned home.


    Qiao Xiaomai, amidst the crowd, ignored their strange looks and walked home.


    Due to his leg injury, Qiao Changshun did not participate in the procession; Qiao Dami had also gone home with him, as the procession was not suitable for children.


    By the time Qiao Xiaomai got home, Qiao Changshun had already made dinner: Rice porridge, cold-dressed elm seeds, and white Steamed Buns.


    After a whole day of busyness, everyone was quite tired, so they casually had their dinner and went to their rooms to sleep.


    Per usual, Qiao Xiaomai poured a cup of Spiritual Spring water and recalling the events of the day, she heaved a sigh of relief, but also started to worry.


    Although they had dealt with the Sun Family and humiliated Sun Junyan, the pressure from Yang Ye had not decreased.


    And now, there was the mysterious Tong Family to deal with.


    Tong Tiehu was just a Vige Chief, the lowest-ranking official in Daqi, it seemed quite abnormal for a Vige Chief to be so chummy with the county magistrate.


    Then there was that inexplicable confession from Tong Sang today.


    Listing her strengths and weaknesses finger by finger, with a sincere and serious look on his face.


    Bah!


    Did he really take her for the naive vige girl the original body was?


    There must be an unmentionable aim behind all this!


    She massaged her temples, tossed the cup into her storage space, and closed her eyes to sleep.


    She would face whatever came at her.


    The next day was sunny and cloudless, a good day for making tofu skin. After breakfast, Qiao Changshun sat in front of the stove again, Qiao Dami was cooking soybean residue to feed the chickens, and Qiao Xiaomai put on her back basket and went up the mountain to collect firewood.


    She didn¡¯t meet anyone along the way. She remembered the three trees she had brokenst time and walked towards them.


    After wandering around the mountain for more than an hour, she had gathered another hundred pounds of dry firewood.


    No one was around, so she effortlessly picked up the pile of firewood, which was taller than her, with one hand and prepared to go down the mountain.


    Just then, she heard a somewhat familiar male voiceing from behind, ¡°Miss Qiao, wait for a moment.¡±


    The sudden voice startled her, and her body involuntarily trembled.


    At the next moment, she realized an even worse problem: her secret of possessing superhuman strength was exposed!


    What to do, what to do, what to do?


    How was she to exin to Tong Sang that she could easily drag a hundred pounds of firewood?


    While her body froze, her mind was working faster than ever.


    People in ancient times were superstitious.. She didn¡¯t want to be seen as a monster and get burnt to death!

 Chapter 192 - 192: Let’s Exchange Secrets!

    Chapter 192: Let¡¯s Exchange Secrets!


    Trantor: 549690339


    Tong Sang looked at Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s suddenly frozen body, hurriedly took a few steps and circled in front of Qiao Xiaomai.


    His handsome face was tinged with a little regret, ¡°Miss Qiao, don¡¯t be afraid.¡±


    He didn¡¯t suddenly appear to frighten Qiao Xiaomai.


    However, Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s reaction had corroborated his guess: She was an ordinary person.


    If she was truly a very capable person, she should not be frozen at this moment.


    Instead, she should be ready to subdue him.


    He looked at Qiao Xiaomai, who was clearly panicking. He pursed his lips and consciously lowered his voice, ¡°Miss Qiao, I want to talk to you. You don¡¯t have to be afraid. I have no intention of hurting you.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Qiao Xiaomai remained rigid.


    Her eyes widened at the man before her, her brain processing everything even faster.


    Talk? Alone in the wilderness, what was there to talk about?


    What could a simple vige girl like her have to discuss with a man like him!


    Did he see her dragging a pile of firewood? He definitely saw it!


    Could he be wanting to discuss that?


    ¡°Miss Qiao, you don¡¯t have to be nervous, I really have no intention of hurting you. Um¡­ let¡¯s sit down and talk, there¡¯s no one here.¡± Tong Sang said, casting a nce at the trees around them.


    He picked out a tree trunk that¡¯s about as thick as a water bucket, raised his palm, and chopped it in half with his bare hands. He crafted a stool,


    he put the stool in front of Qiao Xiaomai, ¡°A/Iiss Qiao, please sit.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai looked at the stool he just made, slowly released the rope binding the firewood in her hand, picked up the stool, walked a few steps to a tree, ced the stool under it, and sat down leaning against the tree.


    Her alluring, dewy peach blossom eyes stared at Tong Sang, only staring, not speaking.


    Right now, she didn¡¯t know what kind of game Tong Sang was ying. The less she spoke, the less chance of blunder, she would wait for him to make his move.


    Tong Sang squatted opposite her with a casual posture, his handsome face showing some regret, ¡°Miss Qiao, I¡¯m sorry, I startled you again.¡±


    When he confessed his feelings to Qiao Xiaomai yesterday, her expression changed greatly.


    Now, he suddenly appeared, and Qiao Xiaomai immediately transformed into a timid wife.


    This wasn¡¯t what he intended.


    Yesterday, he didn¡¯t want Qiao Xiaomai to be taken away by Yang Ye; he couldn¡¯t stand the feeling of emptiness in his heart, so he blurted out his confession rashly.


    He might have struck a raw nerve with Qiao Xiaomai, for which he was truly sorry.


    Today, he didn¡¯t intentionally follow Qiao Xiaomai, it was purely a coincidence.


    He stopped her because he wanted to rify things. However, his sudden speaking startled her.


    He was truly sorry.


    With a sigh in his heart, he looked straight into Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s eyes, and said, ¡°Well¡­ Miss Qiao, shall we exchange secrets? I¡¯ll tell one of mine, you tell one of yours, how about it?¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai¡±¡­¡±


    She silently watched the man before her, not understanding what he was trying to do.


    ¡°You just saw, I can chop a tree with my bare hands, I actually know martial arts, not the fist and foot techniques that the vigers are imagining, but the real martial arts.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai let out a sound, speaking slowly, ¡°You just saw, I can carry a hundred pounds of firewood with my bare hands. I am actually really strong, but not in the sense of transferring mountains and seas, just stronger than an ordinary person.¡±


    At the end of her words, Tong Sang stared at her for a moment, a hint ofughter emerged on his handsome face.


    He continued, ¡°My martial arts, I learned from a teacher.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai blinked, ¡°My strength, it suddenly appeared when I once fought back against my grandma. Maybe even heaven couldn¡¯t stand it, so it helped me out..¡±

 Chapter 193 - 1931 Want to be Honest With You

    Chapter 193:1 Want to be Honest With You


    Trantor: 549690339


    She wasn¡¯t sure what exactly Tong Sang knew, but she was sure not to slip up in her words.


    Hmph.


    Exchanging secrets, forsooth.


    Like hell she would.


    She was not interested in Tong Sang¡¯s secrets at all.


    All she wanted was to be a serene and wealthyndlord.


    But¡­


    Alright, she had to admit her curiosity.


    She was intrigued about why Tong Tiehu and Tong Sang were helping her so much.


    It was rted to her peaceful life; she couldn¡¯t help but be nosy.


    Then there was the rtionship between the county official, Dai, and Tong Tiehu. With Dai¡¯s abrupt manner of dispensing justice, as one of his subjects, she had some concerns.


    But if she really brought up these questions, would Tong Sang honestly answer her?


    Nope.


    If Tong Sang wasn¡¯t straightforward, why should she spill the truth?


    Tong Sang was unaware of Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s thoughts. Listening to her response, he was torn between amusement and helplessness.


    He could feel Xiaomai¡¯s guarded attitude towards him.


    Perhaps he even knew the source of Xiaomai¡¯s wariness, given her previous enquiries about his reasons for helping her so much.


    His responses then weren¡¯t necessarily incorrect.


    He really had no ulterior motives for giving her a hand. If Qiao Changshun had asked his grandfather for assistance earlier, his grandfather would have agreed.


    Rebellion meant involving numerous people. If exposed, he would not be the only one to die.


    He¡¯d told her everything he could.


    But Qiao Xiaomai didn¡¯t believe him.


    She viewed his actions as suspicious, thus treating him with caution and resistance.


    But there were some things he really couldn¡¯t say at the moment.


    Without a sincere attitude, Xiaomai didn¡¯t even deign to give him a proper look.


    Born bearing the heavy burden of rebellion, he used to be indifferent to such a responsibility. It was given to him, so he carried it.


    But now, it was seriously hindering his courtship.


    He was fond of Xiaomai, but didn¡¯t dare to deceive her.


    Such an attitude could easily handle the previous Xiaomai, but the current one¡­


    It only made her opinion of him worsen.


    So, after much thought the previous night, he finally found a feasible solution: exchange secrets with Xiaomai.


    Trust.


    That seemed to be the biggest issue between him and Xiaomai for now.


    Xiaomai didn¡¯t trust him, assuming he had malicious intentions.


    Carrying the burden of many lives, he also dared not trust Xiaomai outright, certainly not enough to share his deepest secrets right off the bat.


    Thus, he wanted to exchange secrets.


    In this way, he wouldn¡¯t have to deceive Xiaomai anymore, easing his inner guilt.


    On the other hand, he could also learn more about Xiaomai.


    The more he knew, the more targeted he could be in courting her, avoiding touching a nerve likest time.


    If both of them held each other¡¯s secrets, wary of each other, wouldn¡¯t their trust in each other increase somewhat?


    He pondered on this question all night, sleepless. Waking up in the morning, he took to the mountains to wander.


    And then he happened upon Xiaomai.


    Just as she was showcasing her strength.


    Strength, that was Xiaomai¡¯s secret.


    If he intended to exchange secrets, could there be a better opportunity?


    Thus, with hardly any hesitation, he stepped forward.


    He exposed her secret and took the opportunity to reveal his. Open and honest conversation, how great that would be.


    What a lovely n.


    Unfortunately, Xiaomai did not y by his rules.


    She glossed over it with a random excuse, one that sounded quite reasonable.


    This conversation wasn¡¯t going as smoothly as he¡¯d like..

 Chapter 194 - 194: Another Identity of Sanlang

    Chapter 194: Another Identity of Sang


    Trantor: 549690339


    ¡°My master is a learned man. I¡¯ve learned not only martial arts but also the arts of music, chess, calligraphy, and painting from him,¡± Tong Sang said after a moment¡¯s thought.


    Even if the conversation wasn¡¯t going smoothly, he had to keep trying.


    Qiao Xiaomai look at his handsome face and rebutted, ¡°So, are you revealing your secrets or introducing yourself?¡±


    Tong Sang¡±¡­¡±


    The cool breeze blew, lifting the corner of his robe.


    Touching his nose, he calmly said, ¡°Consider it an introduction, I hope you can get to know me better.¡±


    ¡°So, you¡¯re saying we¡¯re exchanging secrets, but you¡¯re actually using these trivial matters to fool me?¡± Qiao Xiaomai questioned without reserve.


    Tong Sang sighed inwardly upon hearing this.


    When he suddenly appeared before and exposed Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s great strength, she was startled and behaved very obediently.


    But now that she had given a proper exnation, her courage returned.


    Just look, her sharp questions were like daggers, aimed directly at him.


    He knew that the only way to deal with Qiao Xiaomai was with sincerity. He had no other choice.


    Without something substantial, her impression of him would only worsen.


    ¡°Well¡­ do you know the Tingfeng Pavilion?¡± he asked.


    Qiao Xiaomai raised her delicate eyebrows, ¡°What is that?¡±


    ¡°An organization dedicated to gathering information.¡± It was established by his family decades ago.


    On the surface, they traded information for profit.


    In reality, they controlled information from all aspects of Daqi, allowing them to operate more conveniently.


    However, the Tingfeng Pavilion was very mysterious and publicly had no connection to his family or Yu Ang, so he dared to mention this identity now.


    He truly wanted to be honest with Qiao Xiaomai.


    However, Qiao Xiaomai didn¡¯t catch the sincerity in his voice. His honesty was met with a question from Qiao Xiaomai, ¡°And then?¡±


    ¡°I am the young master of Tingfeng Pavilion.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai¡±¡­¡±


    It sounded impressive.


    This Tong Sang, indeed, had big secrets!


    But, this secret was far removed from her simple life.


    Whether Tong Sang was a young master or not had nothing to do with her¡­


    So, after being stunned, her reply was, ¡°Oh.¡±


    Tong Sang¡±¡­¡±


    Alright, Qiao Xiaomai had no reaction to this at all.


    His identity, once revealed, seemed to mean nothing.


    ¡°What about you, miss? Do you have any secrets you can tell me?¡± He asked persistently.


    ¡°My family owns more than 300 acres of farnd and is thergestndowner in Anping Vige. In the future, I may be the wealthiest person in Anping Vige,¡± said Qiao Xiaomai.


    Tong Sang¡±¡­¡±


    A faint smile appeared on his handsome face, ¡°Miss Qiao, didn¡¯t everyone know this yesterday?¡±


    ¡°Is it? But my father didn¡¯t specify how muchnd we have. Now I¡¯m telling you the exact figure, it can be considered a secret, right?¡± Qiao Xiaomai justified herself.


    ¡°No, Uncle Changshun mentioned this number in order to deal with your grandmother when you went to invite my grandfather.¡±


    ¡°I see¡­¡± Qiao Xiaomai showed a look of realization.


    Seeing this, Tong Sang felt both amused and helpless, ¡°Miss Qiao, I genuinely want to face you with sincerity. Can you give me a chance?¡±


    In response to Tong Sang¡¯s words, Qiao Xiaomai¡¯srge peach blossom eyes scanned him up and down, hesitated for a moment, and said, ¡°Alright.¡±


    Seeing a glint of light sh in Tong Sang¡¯s eyes, she raised her eyebrows questioningly, ¡°Tell me, why you and your grandfather are suddenly so helpful to me?¡±

 Chapter 195 - 195: There’s Something Buried Under Your House

    Chapter 195: There¡¯s Something Buried Under Your House


    Trantor: 549690339


    In the end, the question returned to the beginning.


    The question that Xiaomai has been wondering about since crossing through time, emerged once again as she saw Tong Sang¡¯s sincere expression.


    It was rted to her family, and so it had to be rified.


    Tong Sang clucked his tongue, well, no matter what, he couldn¡¯t avoid this question.


    He nced at the foxtail grass beside him, casually plucked one and twirled it around his fingers, a wry smile on his face as he said, ¡°This matter is akin to a child¡¯s tale without a mother, it¡¯s a long story.¡±


    ¡°No worries, we still have plenty of time.¡± Xiaomai appeared ready to listen.


    The ce where she and Tong Sang were was quite distant from the foot of the mountain. In any case, there was no one in sight, so they could speak at leisure.


    ¡°Alright.¡± Tong Sang simply sat down.


    To marry his wife, he needed to exin!


    He lifted his gaze, looking into the distance.


    The sky was a clear blue, as transparent as a mirror, the warm sunshine poured down, filtered through the leaves andnded on his body, feeling warm.


    The sunlight was really a wonderful thing.


    Sometimes he truly wished to live proudly under this sunlight¡­


    The smile on his face grew more pronounced.


    ¡°To be precise, this matter happened 53 years ago.¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡± Xiaomai frowned in surprise.


    This was somewhat unexpected for her. Fifty-three years ago?


    ¡°Thest emperor of the previous dynasty was so ipetent and heartless that the people had a hard life. As a result, some strongndlords rose up and led troops to overthrow his rule. From then on, chaos broke out across the country.¡±


    ¡°This battlested for three years, and amongst them, one group of powerful forces broke into the imperial pce of the former dynasty and looted the national treasury.¡±


    ¡°But before he could dere himself emperor, he was driven out of the Capital City.¡±


    ¡°In the end, this man was defeated and killed, but the treasure mysteriously disappeared.¡±


    ¡°Later on, a treasure map surfaced, triggering various forces¡¯ waves of greed. Of course, Tingfeng Pavilion had a copy of this treasure map. After years of verification and searching, atst, the location pointed out by the treasure map was discovered.¡±


    Tong Sang stopped talking here. His eyes, which had been gazing at the sky, shifted toward Xiaomai, the smile on his handsome face disappearing.


    Xiaomai¡±¡­¡±


    A bad premonition crossed her mind. Her peach blossom eyes widened slightly, a look of disbelief appearing on her charming face.


    Upon seeing her expression, Tong Sang¡¯s handsome face showed a faint smile again, ¡°That¡¯s right, the location pointed out by the treasure map is your home.¡±


    So, even if he didn¡¯t drag Xiaomai into it, she would still be affected by it.


    This treasure was buried in Xiaomai¡¯s home.


    Today¡¯s Emperor, the Crown Prince, the Third Prince, along with many factions were all seeking this treasure.


    After being hidden for so many years, it somewhat begginning to reveal itself¡­


    Tong Sang¡¯s thoughts trailed off, while Xiaomai was stunned.


    Treasure map.


    Was at your home.


    These seven words were like a bolt out of the blue for her.


    They caused ripples in her mind.


    She always thought her days would be spent farming. She just vaguely heard Tong Sang mention Tingfeng Pavilion, she felt her farming life was merging with the world of martial heroes. Now, however, the narrative was linking to some buried treasures of a former dynasty, was this turning into a power struggle in the pce?


    No, no!


    If it were the national treasury of the previous dynasty, the wealth would be colossal!


    It would definitely stir all kind of greedy viins. This was not about farming, martial arts or pce power struggles, it was painfully about doomsday!


    If the treasure was to be discovered, she had a fair guess what fate awaited for her small family of three.


    She took a deep breath, her lips tightly sealed as she red at Tong Sang.


    Propping his chin on one hand, and casually twirling the foxtail grass with the other, Tong Sang watched her with an amused look on his face..

 Chapter 196 - 196: The Origin of that Fifty Taels Silver

    Chapter 196: The Origin of that Fifty Taels Silver


    Trantor: 549690339


    Qiao Xiaomai squinted her eyes, ¡°Is that really true?¡±


    ¡°If you don¡¯t believe me, you can dig up your house¡¯s ground to check. However, that treasure is buried quite deep, and there¡¯s ayer of iron sheet cast over it, forming a basement. I wonder if your strength can tear thatyer of iron open.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai was speechless,


    ¡°Because we noticed that the batch of treasures was buried in your home, my grandfather and I have been paying more attention to you. But it was just a little more attention. We didn¡¯t take action all those years because you didn¡¯t ask for help.¡±


    ¡°Now that you frequently seek his assistance, your entire demeanor has greatly changed. You¡¯re no longer helpless, so my grandfather is willing to lend you a hand.¡±


    Tong Sang made a light clicking sound with his tongue and shifted his sitting position. He put the Foxtail Grass he was holding in his mouth, his gaze resting on Qiao Xiaomai, and heughed, ¡°Miss Qiao, I wasn¡¯t lying to you when I said all that.¡±


    Many years ago, his grandfather chose to retire in Anping Vige, and then buried the batch of treasures outside the vige.


    But as the poption of Anping Vige increased, what was originally outside became inside the vige.


    The piece ofnd ultimately fell to Qiao Changshun.


    So naturally, his grandfather started to pay more attention to Qiao Changshun¡¯s family.


    Qiao Changshun was stupidly filial, honest, simple, kind, and from a poor family. No one would think that such a family would actually be sitting on a treasure trove.


    It¡¯s quite a good camouge. In any case, his grandfather and he both kept an eye on Qiao Changshun¡¯s household. But they did not stand up to stop the Sun Family¡¯s thug-like behavior.


    After all, they hadn¡¯t witnessed it even once.


    Qiao Changshun had never asked for help.


    If they were proactive and went out of their way to help, it might attract attention.


    So he didn¡¯t lie to Qiao Xiaomai with his previous exnation.


    Qiao Xiaomai looked at him in silence, without a word.


    It wasn¡¯t that she didn¡¯t want to speak, but that her mind was in a mess, and she didn¡¯t know what to say.


    ¡°By the way, there¡¯s another thing.¡± Tong Sang spoke as he bit the Foxtail Grass in his mouth like a cigarette. He casually plucked a few more, and continued, ¡°The jade pendant your father foundst year actually belongs to the Left Chancellor Yu Ang. He lost it while wandering the streets when he came to visit Master Gu.¡±


    ¡°Your father picked it up and didn¡¯t im it as his own. Instead, he stood in ce waiting for the owner, the Left Chancellor. Seeing his honesty, he gave him fifty taels of silver as thanks.¡±


    ¡°However, that fifty taels of silver brought such a disaster to your family. If he knew, he would probably feel sorry.¡±


    Really sorry.


    Yu Ang was his sixth maternal uncle. He hade to visit Master Gu and find his grandfather when he lost the jade pendant in a small incident.


    At the time, he was standing at the corner of the street, watching Qiao Changshun wait for the owner in his old, sweaty clothes. He felt a wave of emotion and suggested Yu Ang give Qiao Changshun fifty taels of silver.


    But as a result, that fifty taels of silver had almost gotten Zhuang Luhe beaten to death by the Sun Family.


    And it caused Qiao Changshun to break his leg.


    This was unexpected. For this, he truly felt sorry.


    Qiao Xiaomai was again speechless,¡±¡­¡±


    She never expected that the fifty taels of silver came about in such a way!


    She frowned and snorted through her nose.


    Sorry, my ass.


    There was nothing wrong with Qiao Changshun picking up the jade pendant, and there was nothing wrong with the so-called Left Chancellor giving a token of appreciation. What was wrong was the greedy Sun Family, and the deceitful Sun Junyan concealed in the shadows.


    Moreover, if it wasn¡¯t for this incident, would she not really have died?


    She had been in a car ident, and the original owner had gone up the mountain to dig for herbal medicine, identally rolled down the mountain and hit her head.


    Dying on the spot.


    If nothing had happened to the original owner, then would she, who had been in a car ident, really have had to reincarnate?


    Although it¡¯s difficult to have transmigrated into the body of the original owner, it¡¯s still better than being dead..

 Chapter 197 - 197: Deciding to Let Go

    Chapter 197: Deciding to Let Go


    Trantor: 549690339


    ¡°Miss Qiao, are you humming something?¡± Tong Sang tilted his head slightly, a barely detectable apology in his eyes.


    Qiao Xiaomai rolled her eyes, ¡°It¡¯s my grandma and Uncle Five who are wrong, meddling with Head Minister¡¯s affairs.¡±


    At her words, Tong Sang lowered his gaze, his long eyshes veiling his feelings.


    Qiao Xiaomai was not ming him, and that was all that mattered.


    ¡°Um ¡­ I¡¯ve answered your question.¡± He then looked up again, presenting a little rabbit made out of Foxtail Grass to Qiao Xiaomai, ¡°For you.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai stared at the adorable bunny in front of her, lips twitching slightly.


    Did Tong Sang really think she was a naive vige girl that he could easily beguile?


    ¡°It¡¯s for Dami.¡± Seeing her not taking it, Tong Sang corrected himself, ¡°He should like it.¡±


    At that, Qiao Xiaomai sneered, indeed Dami loved spending time with Tong Sang.


    With that thought, she took hold of the bunny and then tossed it into her basket.


    Tong Sang nced at her action, a smile creeping onto his lips. His previously dull mood lightened, due to talking about his great-grandfather.


    ¡°Miss Qiao, I¡¯ve answered your question. May I have the chance to court you?¡± he asked again, his dark eyes sparkling with sincerity and warmth.


    Qiao Xiaomai stared back at him, her answer straightforward and rejection clear, ¡°No.¡±


    ¡°But you clearly promised just now.¡±


    ¡°Okay, then you pursue. Anyway, I am not marrying you.¡± Qiao Xiaomai changed her response.


    ¡°The reason?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re too dangerous, we¡¯re notpatible. I want to live peacefully.¡±


    The Young Pavilion Master of Tingfeng Pavilion living in this rundown vige?


    Tong Sang must have another identity!


    When did the Tingfeng Pavilion find out about the treasure buried underneath her house?


    And why did they not retrieve it once they found it?


    There must be a scandalous secret concealed within this!


    ¡°But there is treasure buried under your house, you will most likely get involved.¡±


    ¡°Moving out tomorrow!¡±


    Tong Sang¡±¡­¡±


    A bitter smile appeared on his lips, okay, it was as expected.


    Even without knowing the whole truth, Qiao Xiaomai was already avoiding him like a gue.


    If she knew about his rebellious mission, they would likely never see each other again.


    It is right.


    Seeing Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s performance over the month: diligent, intelligent, carrying a hint of liveliness she rarely reveals.


    She is simply a girl who prefers leading a simple life.


    Upon hearing about the hidden treasure, instead of being tempted, her first reaction was to move away from this trouble spot.


    Tsk.


    Since his birth, it was determined that he wouldn¡¯t lead a peaceful life.


    He had selfishly wanted to involve Qiao Xiaomai in all of this, what a selfish notion¡­


    He could promise her safety, but he could not give her the peaceful life she wanted.


    In actuality, his temperament was not as gentle as outward appearances suggest.


    Deep down, he was obsessive.


    Initially, he had nned to woo her no matter what, wishing to make Qiao Xiaomai his bride. But now, looking at the girl under the tree.


    Her gorgeous peach blossom eyes were filled with undisguised aversion.


    Her usually expressionless face showed clear disgust.


    Was he really that repulsive?


    He, Tong Sang, had sunk to this level.


    Enough.


    Who made him selfish in the first ce? Qiao Xiaomai despised him, which was entirely normal.


    With his identity, he should not drag her into it.


    He would just watch over her from a distance.


    The bitter smile on his handsome face deepened as he nodded, ¡°Alright, move house. The treasure map shows that the location is somewhere near Anping Vige, not precisely your house.¡±


    ¡°You can make an excuse of making money by doing business, buying a small


    Courtyard in town will not arouse suspicion..¡±

 Chapter 198 - 198 Why Not Transport Away

    Chapter 198: Why Not Transport Away


    Trantor: 549690339


    ¡°The silver in your possession probably isn¡¯t enough to buy a house in town. You should go to Jiwei Residence, sell your tofu skin recipe, the money you get from that should be enough for you to buy afortable small courtyard.¡±


    ¡°After buying a courtyard, transfer your household registration to the town as well andpletely cut ties with Anping Vige.¡±


    ¡°Looking at Principal Gu¡¯s condition, he should have no problem living for another ten to twenty years. With him around, there won¡¯t be any disturbances in Bailu Town.¡±


    Of course, the premise for the absence of disturbances is that his family does not rebel.


    But this isn¡¯t something he can decide. His grandfather is still hesitating, not wanting themon people to suffer from war again.


    However, his sixth grandfather is quite resolute, determined to seek justice for their great-grandfather.


    But if they do rebel, he will naturally do everything he can to ensure Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s safety.


    Qiao Xiaomai looked surprised at his words.


    One moment he was begging her for a chance, the next moment he had already nned her way out?


    That¡¯s quite a drastic change.


    Realizing her confusion, Tong Sang sighed, ¡°Rest assured, 1 have no ill intentions. Rather than making you feel disgusted, I¡¯d be better off keeping my distance to leave you with a better impression.¡±


    Knowing that she might be taken away by Yang Ye left an empty feeling in his heart, so he confessed to her.


    Now seeing the clear disgust on her face, his heart feels more than empty, it feels like he¡¯s chewing on bitter melon, bitter to the bone.


    This feeling is absolutely terrible.


    Rubbing his chest, he remarked with some remorse, ¡°It¡¯s more important that you are happy and doing well.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai,¡±¡­¡±


    Turning into a love-struck fool in a second.


    ¡°If I leave, what about my house? If I sell it, won¡¯t that be taking advantage of others? If 1 don¡¯t sell it, there¡¯s still the chance of being sought after by others.¡± Qiao Xiaomai said, furrowing her brows.


    ¡°I¡¯ll buy it.¡± said Tong Sang, ¡°You can go to the town with peace of mind.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯ll buy?¡±


    Tong Sang nodded.


    Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s eyes rolled around, many questions forming in her mind.


    But curiosity killed the cat. This saying is definitely not just for fun.


    The less she knows, the safer she is.


    Licking her lips, she asked, ¡°So, will this cause you any trouble?¡±


    Tong Sang paused for a moment, then rubbed his chest again.


    He gave a bitter smile, ¡°Luckily I changed my mind. For a good-hearted girl like you, if I had kept my previous thoughts, it would¡¯ve been a sin. Maybe even fate wouldn¡¯t look kindly on me.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai,¡±¡­¡±


    Seeing Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s silent face again, Tong Sang¡¯s smile deepened, devoid of bitterness, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, it won¡¯t cause me any trouble.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai became silent once again.


    She looked at Tong Sang in front of her, after a while, she couldn¡¯t resist and asked again, ¡°Since you at Tingfeng Pavilion have found the treasure, why not quietly transport it away?¡±


    Transporting it away in secret would invalidate the treasure map.


    ¡°Too much, it¡¯s difficult to transport.¡± The National Treasury naturally contains all kinds of treasures.


    Apart from gold, silver and jewels, it also includes various antiques, paintings and calligraphy, precious screens, potted nts and even furniture.


    Gold, silver and jewels could be transported away quietly.


    But therge items were difficult to transport, and because they were too well-known, the moment they¡¯re exposed, they¡¯re bound to attract attention.


    Today¡¯s Daqi, especially here in Bailu Town, the poption is too dense for these objects to be transported away.


    And how these treasures managed to bypass the enemy¡¯s blockade and were transported here in the first ce, remains a mystery.


    Even his two grandfathers don¡¯t know.


    ¡°Too many things? How could my tiny courtyard possibly hold them all?¡± Qiao Xiaomai was even more puzzled.


    ¡°There¡¯re three levels underground, extending all around your house, but the main structure is right under your house.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai,¡±¡­¡±


    Her courtyard is roughly 300 square meters, with three levels underground full of treasures, oh god, it really is the National Treasury!

 Chapter 199 - 199: Somewhat Annoyed

    Chapter 199: Somewhat Annoyed


    Trantor: 549690339


    ¡°Alright, stop prying. You should head down the mountain soon. It¡¯s already midday with all this dy.¡± Tong Sang stood up, dusted off his clothes, and added, ¡°If you¡¯re short on money, you can sell your tofu recipe at Jiwei Residence.¡±


    ¡°If you¡¯re going to move, you should do it sooner rather thanter.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai looked at him, maintaining her silence.


    ¡°By the way, about Yang Ye, Prince Wei¡­ If you really do not want to be his kitchen maid, you can teach your skills to his chef instead. He may love food more than beauty, and if he can¡¯t satisfy his appetite, he might not let the matter rest.¡±


    ¡°But you don¡¯t have to be too afraid. He¡¯s never been the type to bully people with his power. If you speak to him earnestly, you should be able to resolve this peacefully.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai remained silent.


    Tong Sang met her gaze. His eyes lingered on her for a moment, then he forced a smile, his handsome face softening. ¡°I¡¯ll go down the mountain first.¡±


    With that, he took a step forward, turned his head, and started walking down the small mountain path.


    However, after a few steps, he stopped and said, ¡°1 apologize for my previous rudeness. Please forget about it. I won¡¯t bother you in the future.¡±


    As soon as he finished speaking, he resumed his steps, heading down the mountain without a backwards nce.


    Though the problem that has been bothering hertely was finally solved, she felt even more bitter and empty inside.


    Tsk.


    Feelings, they¡¯re indeed mysterious.


    Qiao Xiaomai stood up from the bench, biting her lip as she stared at Tong Sang¡¯s retreating figure. Then, she turned around and, dragging her bundle of firewood, followed the path down the mountain.


    As for Tong Sang¡­


    This past month, he and Tong Tiehu had helped her many times.


    But she had always been wary of Tong Sang, believing he had ulterior motives.


    Now that everything had been talked out, it became clear that Tong Sang was primarily interested in her house because of the treasure buried underneath. He meant no harm.


    In retrospect, she seemed to have been in the wrong.


    Truth be told, this past month would have been far more troublesome without Tong Tiehu keeping the Sun Family in check.


    As a younger person, she really didn¡¯t know how to handle the Sun Family¡¯s unreasonable demands.


    She could beat them up, of course, but unless she killed them, she would end up having to pay their medical bills if she only injured them instead.


    Thinking of the Sun Family¡¯s aggressive behaviour as they ransacked her house, she couldn¡¯t help but bite her lip again.


    Actually¡­


    When Tong Sang confessed, she should have been more gentle.


    Aside from his confession, Tong Sang had never wronged her. Considering how he had helped her in the past, she should have been more graceful in her rejection.


    Regretting her actions all the way, she straightened her face as she approached the vige, struggling to drag her bundle of firewood home just as she hadst time.


    When Qiao Changshun saw her flushed face, he quickly fetched her some water and asked her to sit and rest.


    Sitting on the small stool, she cradled her bowl and quietly observed their little courtyard.


    Who would have thought there would be a national treasury hidden under thisnd from a previous dynasty?


    ¡°Xiaomai, it¡¯s time to pay respect to your grandfather.¡± Qiao Changshun, kindling the fire in the stove, said to Qiao Xiaomai hesitantly.


    ¡°I¡¯ll go in a bit.¡±


    ¡°How much are you giving?¡± Qiao Changshun asked nervously.


    ¡°Fifty wen.¡± Even though she had severed ties with the Sun family, her grandfather Qiao Qinghe was definitely worth fifty copper coins.


    At her words, Qiao Changshun sighed in relief.


    ¡°Dad, have you ever thought of moving?¡± Qiao Xiaomai hesitated for a moment, then asked..

 Chapter 200 - 200 Let’s Move House

    Chapter 200: Let¡¯s Move House


    Trantor: 549690339


    ¡°Moving?¡± Qiao Changshun was stunned, ¡°Where to?¡±


    ¡°To the town.¡±


    ¡°Why?¡± Qiao Changshun was utterly puzzled after the initial shock.


    The house was newly built, enough for him to live till his old age.


    Why not live in such a good house and move to the town?


    ¡°Moving into town makes it easier to do business,¡± Qiao Xiaomai stated her reasons, ¡°Besides, we¡¯ll be able to evade Grandma, she definitely won¡¯t let it go.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Qiao Changshun fell silent for a moment, ¡°Your Uncle Changfu is in town studying. If we move there, won¡¯t he¡­¡±


    ¡°If he dares toe, I¡¯ll go to the Academy and cause a scene.¡± Qiao Xiaomai stated firmly.


    At these words, Qiao Changshun became speechless. He dusted off the soil on his pants and struggled to find an excuse, ¡°Living in the town¡­we might not have enough money¡­and we will also need to buy firewood¡­ We would need money everywhere.¡±


    ¡°We can continue to sell rice noodles.¡±


    Tong Sang asked her to sell dry tofu at Jiweiju. The tone of his voice was so certain that he must have some rtionship with Jiweiju¡­


    But she decided on Zuixian Building instead, she didn¡¯t want to owe him any favors.


    Qiao Changshun fell silent again.


    He had never thought of leaving Anping Vige, even if it meant moving to the town.


    ¡°I¡¯ll go cook first. You think about it, Dad,¡± Qiao Xiaomai stood up, stepping into the kitchen.


    She understood Qiao Changshun¡¯s concerns. Qiao Changshun was a simple man who just wanted to live a peaceful life. But she was taking this action so that her family could have a peaceful life too.


    After lunch, Qiao Xiaomai went to give condolence money to Qiao Qinghe.


    She also took some bean sprouts and a block of tofu and sent them over.


    Due to yesterday¡¯s incident, the Qiao Family¡¯s old courtyard was filled with a heavy atmosphere.


    Doctor Wu said that Sun Junyan would have to stay in bed for at least a month to recover.


    A month, not even considering the medicine expenses, he would have to miss themunication meeting, for sure.


    If he missed thismunication meeting, in the view of the Sun Family and Sun Junyan, his path to advancement would be practically cut off.


    Furthermore, if the news got around to the Academy in town, he would not be able to show his face in front of his ssmates.


    In short, Sun Junyan¡¯s future was now half ruined.


    Under these circumstances, with the exception of Qiao Qinghe, the rest of the family, including Qiao Changfu and Qiao Meipan, were anxious and terrified, fearing that the Sun family would vent their anger on them.


    Qiao Xiaomai, however, disregarded all of this. Carrying a basket, she boldly stood at the entrance of the old courtyard and called for Qiao Qinghe.


    At her call, Mrs. Sun came rushing out first.


    Her old face filled with resentment. Her eyes, like a venomous snake¡¯s, were fixed fiercely on Xiaomai, as if she would literally devour her alive.


    With a faint smile on her face, Qiao Xiaomai looked at Qiao Qinghe, who was closely following Mrs. Sun. She held up the basket in her hand and said, ¡°Grandpa, here¡¯s fifty wen, and these bean sprouts and tofu.¡±


    An awkward expression squeezed onto Qiao Qinghe¡¯s face as he clenched his teeth and reluctantly took the basket.


    Although he felt remorse towards Qiao Xiaomai, Sun Junyan¡¯s injury still needed to be treated, which would cost a considerable amount of money.


    ¡°Grandpa, I¡¯ll go first.¡± Carrying her empty basket, Qiao Xiaomai turned to leave.


    Seeing her departure, Mrs. Sun, who had been shooting her malicious res from the side, snarled out a few words between her teeth, ¡°You unfilial thing, you will pay for this.¡±


    With her cold demeanor, resentful tone and scrawny figure, she looked rather terrifying.


    However, Qiao Xiaomai didn¡¯t even bother to give her a sideways nce and continued to walk away.


    Retribution?


    If there really was such a thing, if there really was a just god, then Mrs. Sun would surely be the first to be struck by lightning..

 Chapter 201 - 201: Why Is the Spiritual Spring Water Not Working?

    Chapter 201: Why Is the Spiritual Spring Water Not Working?


    Trantor: 549690339


    Once back home, Qiao Xiaomai immediately began making dried tofu.


    The process of making tofu skin was so simple, she felt shy about asking the Zuixian Building a high price for it.


    She took a block of tender tofu, cut it into thin palm-sized pieces, and then ced the stone, used to press the tofu, on top.


    Of course, she couldn¡¯t press it all at once; otherwise, the tender tofu would break. She had to gradually increase the weight.


    Making dried tofu on the side and boiling soymilk to make tofu skin, the afternoon quickly passed.


    Just before bedtime, the dried tofu was finally ready, looking no different from the small packaged pieces of the future.


    Qiao Xiaomai sighed in relief.


    After packing away the dried tofu, she was about to go to bed, when she faintly heard a weak moaning sounding from Qiao Changshun¡¯s room as she was passing by the hall.


    Qiao Xiaomai stopped, hesitated for a moment, then knocked on the door, ¡°Father?¡±


    The moaning sound immediately stopped.


    Qiao Xiaomai knocked again, ¡°Father, what¡¯s wrong?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s nothing, go to sleep.¡± Qiao Changshun spoke, his voice kept deliberately low, afraid of waking up Qiao Dami who was sleeping next to him.


    ¡°What exactly is going on?¡± Qiao Xiaomai hit the door, quite forcefully.


    Qiao Dami, who was sleeping inside, grunted twice, showing signs of waking up.


    Seeing this, Qiao Changshun rushed to gently pat him, then lifted the quilt and got out of bed.


    It was actually not a big deal; his leg was just hurting a bit.


    It would hurt asionally before, but he could bear it. However, ever since he got caught in the rain a few days ago, his right leg has been cramping up and hurting constantly, drinking and applying herbal medicine didn¡¯t help much. His leg had been hurting all the time for the past two days.


    He couldn¡¯t help but groan just now, inadvertently, and it was heard by Qiao Xiaomai.


    After hearing this, Qiao Xiaomai said immediately, ¡°Let¡¯s go see a doctor in the town tomorrow.¡±


    ¡°No need, let¡¯s wait till I¡¯ve finished the medicine prescribed by Doctor Wu.¡±


    ¡°We¡¯re going to sell the dried tofu tomorrow anyway, so let¡¯s go together.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Qiao Changshun rubbed his hands, ¡°Are we really gonna move to town?¡±


    ¡°Mmm.¡±


    ¡°But, but what if your motheres back and can¡¯t find us?¡±


    As he spoke, Qiao Changshun raised his hand to rub his sore eyes.


    Although Zhuang Luhe had run off and betrayed him, if she truly came back, he wouldn¡¯t reprimand her at all.


    Qiao Xiaomai paused, surprised to find that Qiao Changshun was still hoping for Zhuang Luhe to return. This was beyond her expectations.


    ¡°Anyway, the neighbors are here, if Mom reallyes back, they can tell her where we moved.¡± She took a moment to think, then said.


    Qiao Changshun heard this and raised his hand to knock on his leg, ¡°You should go back to your room and sleep.¡±


    He didn¡¯t agree or disagree, but his attitude clearly showed that he was unwilling to leave.


    ¡°You should also get some sleep, we have to go to town tomorrow.¡± Qiao Xiaomai sighed inwardly and returned to her room.


    Lying in bed, she poured another cup of Spiritual Spring water.


    Tasting the sweet spring water, she was a bit puzzled.


    She had been using Spiritual Spring water for cooking these past few days, and the taste was so good, yet it didn¡¯t have any healing effects?


    Why was Qiao Changshun still in pain after drinking the Spiritual Spring water?


    As for his limping, she didn¡¯t expect that it could be cured by the Spiritual Spring water, but why didn¡¯t it even have an analgesic effect¡­?


    This Spiritual Spring was ratherme if it could only be used for cooking.


    When would it upgrade again?


    Sighingly, she drank the water in the cup and then went to sleep.


    With such a ticking time bomb buried under the house, she didn¡¯t sleep well that night. When the chickens crowed for the first time, she woke up.


    It was a bit early at that time. As she was contemting whether to go back to sleep, a warm flow welled up from below, the moist heat quickly spreading.


    Her eyes widened in surprise as she hurriedly reached into her nket to retrieve a shlight and check.


    Just as she had expected.


    Her menstrual period hase again¡­.

 Chapter 202 - 202: Slander

    Chapter 202: nder


    Trantor: 549690339


    With this period came abdominal pain.


    However, it wasn¡¯t too severe, it was within tolerable bounds.


    Reluctantly, she put on a sanitary pad, feeling horribly depressed.


    She had heard that menstrual cycles might be irregr at first, and she wasn¡¯t sure if this qualified as a disorder. But since she was heading to town to see Qiao Changshun for his leg today, she might as well get some medicine.


    After breakfast, she put some dried tofu that she made yesterday into a basket, along with some bean sprouts. The three of them then set off in a donkey cart.


    Before going to town, Qiao Xiaomai nned to visit the Tong Family first.


    No matter what Tong Sang did, she had to thank Tong Tiehu.


    The day before yesterday, she bound the Sun Family and went to County Town to break off rtions. She also treated everyone to lunch and then beat up Sun Junyan. Such victories wouldn¡¯t have been possible without Tong Tiehu¡¯s intervention.


    Therefore, she had to express her gratitude.


    After expressing gratitude, she would then sell her house to Tong Sang, and then¡­


    There wouldn¡¯t be any further interaction, right?


    Her home was somewhat secluded, from her house it was quite a slow ride by donkey cart to the street where the Tong Family lived. The faint sound of amotion could be heard from some distance away, mixed with a young woman¡¯s crying and the scolding of a shrew.


    She was unfamiliar with the crying, but the shrew¡¯s scolding was familiar.


    It was none other than Sun¡¯s wife.


    She couldn¡¯t help but raise her gaze toward the source of the noise, and saw a crowd gathered at the entrance of the Tong Family¡¯s house. There were so many people there, blocking the inside view. She couldn¡¯t see.


    Instinctively, she stood up and tiptoed to get a better view inside.


    Now, she could see clearly.


    Sun¡¯s wife was sitting at the entrance of the Tong Family¡¯s house. She was pounding her thigh while her other hand pointed at the Tong Family¡¯s door, yelling curses, her face flushed and expression fierce.


    Qiao Meipan was sitting beside her, sobbing and pressing a handkerchief against her face, gasping for breath as if she might faint at any moment.


    Tong Sang was standing at the entrance with his arms crossed over his chest, his handsome face cold.


    Tong Tiehu was sitting at the entrance with a grim expression, shaking with fury.


    Half of Mrs. Qian peeked out from the iron door, looking distressed.


    As the donkey cart approached, the scolding of Sun¡¯s wife became clearer. ¡°Tong Sang, let me tell you! You peeked at my daughter, agreed to get married, and now refuse to marry her! You unfaithful man, if you do not agree to marry her today, 1 swear I willmit suicide in front of your house!¡±


    ¡°Even as a ghost, 1 won¡¯t let you off!¡±


    Tong Tiehu said coldly, ¡°My son would never fancy your daughter! When you proposed, I clearly refused!¡±


    At these words, Sun¡¯s wife pped her thigh and eximed, ¡°Your son openly refused, but secretly seduced her! Not marrying but taking her body, what on earth!.¡±


    ¡°If Tong Sang doesn¡¯t give an exnation today, both Meipan and 1 willmit suicide at your doorstep! 1 have never seen a man as scoundrel as him!¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai¡±¡­¡±


    The amount of information was a bit overwhelming.


    However, it was obviously all fabricated.


    Would Tong Sang ever be interested in Qiao Meipan?


    The sun would have to start rising from the west.


    ¡°Where¡¯s the evidence? If you im 1 toyed with your daughter, where is your proof? If you can¡¯t produce evidence, it is nder, which is punishable by a beating.¡± Tong Sang said, his handsome face impassive.


    ¡°Here is the evidence!¡±


    Sun¡¯s wife pulled something resembling a silk cloth from her bosom. She shook it out and waved it in front of the vigers, and then dered, ¡°Hmph, this is the undergarment fallen when Tong Sang privately met with Meipan.. This is the proof!¡±

 Chapter 203 - 203: You are a Scumbag

    Chapter 203: You are a Scumbag


    Trantor: 549690339


    Upon the presentation of this evidence, the previously onlooking vigers suddenly erupted in discussions.


    Naturally, they didn¡¯t say anything about Tong Tiehu in his presence; they simply expressed disbelief.


    Indeed, it was unbelievable.


    The people of this time did not wear the type of underwear we wear inter generations. Underwear was considered the most personal item. The Sun Family suddenly produced a pair from their bosom, iming it belonged to Tong Tiehu. Everyone was shocked.


    Could it be as the Sun Family imed? Tong Tiehu was unwilling to marry Qiao Meipan, but he had already trifled with her body?


    Otherwise, how could this private item have ended up in Qiao Meipan¡¯s hands?


    Tong Tiehu¡¯s gaze fell upon that underwear, he raised an eyebrow. This type of underwear¡­


    He nced sideways at the Sun Family, who was looking back at him smugly. He then allowed his gaze to wander to Qiao Xiaomai, who was standing in the distance atop a donkey cart. He pursed his lips, a sudden urge to end the Sun Family¡¯s life surged within him.


    Wanting to have an affair with him was fine. After all, as the vige head, he had seen a lot of this.


    But to bring out such a thing to nder him, especially in front of Qiao Xiaomai, it was¡­


    So unworthy of his status as the young master of Tingfeng Pavilion.


    It was embarrassing.


    Qiao Xiaomai must beughing at him.


    He suppressed his anger and said, ¡°I do not own such an underwear, your daughter has mistaken the person.¡±


    He did have a piece of underwear like this, made by the Zhang Family.


    However, it had been taken away by Tong Erhu before he had a chance to wear it after washing.


    And now the Sun Family brought out such a piece of underwear to nder him, howughable.


    ¡°Won¡¯t admit it, huh?! This is clearly yours!¡± the Sun Family shook the underwear in her hands menacingly, ¡°Dare you let me search your house?!¡±


    Tong Tiehu folded his arms in response, saying coldly, ¡°I fear you¡¯ll dirty the floor of my room.¡±


    ¡°I think it¡¯s clear you¡¯re feeling guilty!¡± The Sun Family straightened her back, shaking the underwear in her hand once more.


    Tong Tiehu cocked his handsome brow, ¡°Tell me when and where you think I met with your daughter privately?¡±


    In response, the Sun Family gripped the underwear tighter, her old face filled with bitterness, she used harshly, ¡°Originally, you expressed interest in my daughter Meipan, so I came to propose marriage, but then I don¡¯t know when you started fooling around with that cheap woman Qiao Xiaomai.¡±


    ¡°So while you lusted after my daughter¡¯s body, you were secretly seeing that cheap woman. That woman has ruined my daughter¡¯s marriage. She¡¯ll be struck by lightning and thunder!¡±


    Tong Tiehu¡±¡­¡±


    He indeed wanted to be involved with Qiao Xiaomai, but unfortunately, Qiao Xiaomai was not giving him any chances.


    Sighing inwardly, he asked with a cold face, ¡°Cut the nonsense, tell me when and where you think me and your daughter met privately.¡±


    ¡°What? Do you dare not admit you are involved with that wench Xiaomai? The day before yesterday, when I went to Changsun¡¯s house, under broad daylight, what were you two doing with the door closed in the courtyard!¡± The Sun Family interrogated, shaking the underwear in her hand again, putting on a show for the onlookers.


    Tong Tiehu couldn¡¯t bear to listen anymore, he rebuked darkly, ¡°Sun Family, focus on the matter and speak of the time and location! If you say one more irrelevant word, be careful, 1¡¯11 order someone to take you to the County Government Office!¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s see if you dare to nder and fabricate stories in front of the county magistrate!¡±


    The county magistrate.


    These three words extinguished some of the Sun Family¡¯s arrogant attitude. The fear from being taken to court the day before has not fully faded, and besides, everything she said today was made-up, solely for the purpose of getting her daughter Qiao Meipan married to Tong Tiehu.


    Going to County Town to meet with the county magistrate was not in her n..

 Chapter 204 - 204: Whose Underwear Did You Steal?

    Chapter 204: Whose Underwear Did You Steal?


    Trantor: 549690339


    Thinking so, Mrs. Sun angrily shook the shorts in her hand, yelled, ¡°These shorts were left behind when Tong Tiehu and Meipan secretly met up on the hill yesterday morning. Xiaomai is flirting with him, and Meipan left these behind in case he denies it!¡±


    ¡°Bulls**t!¡±


    Hearing this, Qiao Xiaomai, who was getting closer, immediately cursed.


    At this moment, Mrs. Sun was not the elder she had been respectful toward. Now, she could say whatever she had refrained from saying before.


    Her retort was so blunt that it startled Qiao Changshun, who quickly grabbed the reins to stop the mule.


    Even though he had broken off his rtionship with the Sun family, she was still his mother!


    Xiaomai¡¯s cursing was too much, too much¡­


    He lowered his head in silence.


    Never mind, his mother was cursing his daughter. If he didn¡¯t support either side, he could pretend he didn¡¯t hear.


    To Xiaomai, Changshun¡¯s silence was a tacit approval of her attitude. Her heart felt lighter, her young face was full of frost as she stared down at Mrs. Sun, through the crowd.


    ¡°You should be at home looking after your precious son, not here causing trouble at the vige chief¡¯s doorstep. Have you forgotten the dignity of the country magistrate?¡±


    She sneered and then turned to Tong Tiehu, ¡°Sir Tong, Mrs. Sun has defamed me. I demand she be punished under the ¡®Daqi Laws¡¯. If necessary, let¡¯s go to the county town again!¡±


    Her words were sharp. Mrs. Sun, stung by them, jumped up at once.


    One hand on her hip, the other holding the shorts, she pointed at Xiaomai and cursed, ¡°Defamation? Would I nder you?! You shameless seductress, just like your mother, you can¡¯t live a day without a man. What were you doing with Tong Tiehu behind locked doors at your ce the other morning?¡±


    Xiaomai crossed her arms calmly and replied, ¡°Tong Tiehu came to discuss the menu for Sir Tong¡¯s sixtieth birthday banquet. You know we¡¯re experimenting with some new dishes. To prevent you from barging in and stealing our recipes, we locked the door.¡±


    ¡°Do you think Tong Tiehu and 1 are like you, thinking of seducing people all the time?¡±


    ¡°We are straightforward and upright, unlike you, stealing men¡¯s shorts to nder others. An old woman like you, you really have no shame!¡±


    ¡°You said yesterday there would be retribution, didn¡¯t you? God has eyes. If anyone shall be struck by lightning, it should be you.¡±


    At this moment, Xiaomai really wished she could somehow turn her superpower into the power of thunder.


    An extreme woman like Mrs. Sun deserved to be struck by lightning.


    When Tong Tiehu heard this, he was surprised.


    He had confessed his feelings to Xiaomai that day, but now she casually came up with a decent reason and even followed it with a vow about being struck by lightning.


    Wow.


    Telling such lies and daring to make such ims. Nice one.


    Thinking so, he looked at Mrs. Sun who was burning with rage and smirked, ¡°You said yesterday morning your daughter and 1 had a secret tryst in the mountains, and your daughter stealthily kept these shorts in case 1 denied it.¡± ¡°Do you think I¡¯m a fool? Do you think she could have secretly kept something this big?¡±


    The shorts were like the shorts inter times. Given Qiao Meipan¡¯s ability, it was impossible for her to smuggle away such arge item secretly..

 Chapter 205 - 205: You Seduced Your Would-be Uncle

    Chapter 205: You Seduced Your Would-be Uncle


    Trantor: 549690339


    ¡°And I, missing my underpants, wouldn¡¯t have noticed anything and juste down the hill?¡± Tong Sang asked again.


    The Tomb-Sweeping Festival had passed and the weather was getting warmer. Most people wore underpants under their trousers.


    He only had two pairs of pants. Would Tong Sang be so oblivious as to go down the mountain without noticing one was missing?


    ¡°Yeah, absolutely. Sun Family, you didn¡¯t just randomly steal a man¡¯s underpants to frame Sang, did you?¡± A woman in the crowd spoke up.


    This wasn¡¯t winter with piles and piles of clothing that could easily hide a piece. It was warm and they only wore twoyers; one wouldn¡¯t notice a missing pair unless they were as braindead as Jiang Zhuangzhuang.


    Hearing this, the matriarch of the Sun family huffed loudly, and shook the underpants in her hand. She red at the woman who had spoken up and yelled, ¡°Back then, because Meipan threatened him with her life, Sang dared not kill her and had toe down dispiritedly!¡±


    ¡°Didn¡¯t you just say that this was something your daughter had secretly left behind? Howe now, Sang knew she was threatening him with her life?¡± The same woman asked again.


    The matriarch of the Sun family stood with her hands on her hips, leaning in towards the woman. Flying spittle could be seen as they argued, ¡°I was trying to save Sang some face before! After all, he is the vige chief¡¯s grandson, he needs face!¡±


    ¡°But since he won¡¯t admit it now, I won¡¯t save him any face either. Bottom line, if he doesn¡¯t take Meipan as his wife today, Meipan and I willmit suicide at his gate. Even as ghosts, we will never leave him alone!¡±


    ¡°So you¡¯re saying, you¡¯re just going to frame Tong Family based on this single pair of underpants which you probably stole from somewhere?¡± Qiao Xiaomai sneered, ¡°Then 1¡¯11 just randomly find a man, give him a handkerchief, and say it¡¯s from your daughter Qiao Meipan. So that means Qiao Meipan must be involved with this man, right?¡±


    At these words, the matriarch of the Sun family was furious and stamped her feet in anger.


    Qiao Meipan¡¯s crying momentarily ceased, only to get louder afterward.


    Tong Sang gave her a meaningful nce, sighing inwardly, this girl was just his type.


    ¡°You tramp, you¡¯re ruining your cousin¡¯s marriage by seducing your prospective uncle. You better watch out, lightning will strike you!¡± The matriarch of the Sun Family shook all over with rage as she cursed.


    Upon hearing this, Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s mouth twitched, and she subconsciously nced at Tong Sang.


    Prospective uncle?


    Tong Sang had an expression as if he had just been struck by lightning, those three words really made him nauseous.


    ¡°Sun Family, stop your babbling. Even if Sang were blind, he wouldn¡¯t be interested in your daughter!¡± The same woman couldn¡¯t help speaking up again.


    ¡°Fuck off!¡± The matriarch of the Sun Family cursed, ¡°Du Qing¡¯ai, just because your daughter can¡¯t get married into the Tong family, doesn¡¯t mean you can disparage Meipan!¡±


    Du Qing¡¯ai was the mother of Gao Xiaoshan and Gao Xiaomei. Their houses weren¡¯t situated too far apart. Hearing themotion, she hade over.


    Gao Xiaomei also came along, but was quickly sent back home by her. The matriarch of the Sun Family was too crude and her actions too despicable; she didn¡¯t want her daughter¡¯s eyes and ears to be polluted.


    Hearing the matriarch of the Sun Family badmouthing her own daughter, she couldn¡¯t help cursing, ¡°No, you¡¯re the one who¡¯s talking nonsense! It¡¯s clear you and your daughter are greedy for the Tong Family¡¯s wealth and hence, you¡¯ve resorted to these dirty tricks!¡±


    ¡°You dare to frame and nder people like this, because you¡¯ve gone crazy wanting a good life!¡±


    ¡°Indeed, she¡¯s gone crazy.¡± Qiao Xiaomai sneered, a mocking smile appearing on her small face, ¡°If you want to live a good life, you should earn it yourself!¡± ¡°Shut your mouth, you tramp! You¡¯re seducing your prospective uncle and you still have the audacity to act righteously? I¡¯d like to see who would marry you!¡± The matriarch of the Sun family immediately turned her anger towards Qiao Xiaomai.


    Tong Sang frowned, his gaze frigid. He nced at the underpants in the matriarch¡¯s hand, and said, ¡°Sun Family, the underpants you¡¯re holding, they¡¯re new, right?¡±


    ¡°And this fabric, it¡¯s from Xiangji Fabric Shop in the town, isn¡¯t it?¡±

 Chapter 206 - 206: Dare You?

    Chapter 206: Dare You?


    Trantor: 549690339


    The fabric for the clothes Zhang Family had made for him was purchased from Xiangji Fabric Shop. They bought too much and didn¡¯t use it all, so they used the leftover to make him a pair of underpants.


    Now that he saw a pair of underpants, identical to his, in the hands of the Sun family, most certainly, the fabric for these came from the Xiangji Fabric Shop as well.


    There are only two fabric shops in Bailu Town. One sells rough linen clothes for themon folk, and the other, Xiangji Fabric Shop, sells only fine silk and satin.


    The underpants in the hands of the Sun family looked new. Therefore, there was a good chance that she went to the town herself to buy the fabric.


    However, he was curious as to how she found out that he possessed a pair of underpants like these.


    Upon considering the possibilities, he narrowed his eyes and curled his lips. ¡°Sun Family, I am going to the Xiangji Fabric Shop in the town to inquire with the shopkeeper and see if this fabric was purchased by you or someone from your family.


    ¡°If it turns out it was you, then you are guilty of nder. As per the Daqi Laws, you will not get away from the punishment.¡±


    Upon hearing this, the expression on Sun Family¡¯s face tensed ufortably.


    What Tong Sang made sense. The fabric for this underpants indeed came from the Xiangji Fabric Shop.


    But, it wasn¡¯t her who bought it¡ªit was Sun Junyan.


    After thest time Sun Junyan returned home and was humiliated by Qiao Xiaomai and Tong Tiehu, he formted a counter-strategy: falsely use Qiao Meipan and forcefully push her to Tong Sang.


    Coincidentally, Zhu Cuiying, while visiting Tong Family, identally found San Sang washing clothes, which happened to include that pair of underpants that Zhang Family had made for him.


    When Zhu Cuiying returned home and found that Sun Junyan had bought the same fabric for his robe, she offhandedly mentioned it.


    While the speaker had no intention, the listener took interest. What she unintentionally mentioned fell in the sharp ears of Sun Junyan bing a poisonous scheme.


    So, Sun Family made an identical pair of underpants.


    They had nned to expose this matter at an appropriate time, but now that Qiao Xiaomai and Tong Sang dared to hold a private meeting in broad daylight, they had to execute this n urgently, fearing that they may not get another chance.


    So, in the face of such incidents as broken ties and corporal punishment, Sun Junyan did not hesitate to ask Sun Family and Qiao Meipan to implement this n.


    But now, Tong Sang pointed out the source of the fabric of the underpants in her hands¡­


    Would he go to the town to confront the shopkeeper of the fabric shop?


    No, no, no.


    This won¡¯t work!


    ording to her n, she would dig into Tong Sang¡¯s room for proof once he denied it. After finding his underpants, she would then insist that he had crafted two such underpants. Then, Tong Sang would certainly be unable to excuse himself.


    But this was not what she had nned.


    Clenching her teeth, she tightly grasped the underpants in her hand and yelled, ¡°I don¡¯t know where this fabric came from! I only know that you left these underpants behind during your secret rendezvous with Meipan! Are you brave enough to let me sift through your room?!¡±


    ¡°Alright, you can search.¡± Seeing the righteous indignation in Sun Family¡¯s eyes, Tong Sang instantly changed his mind.


    Going to the fabric shop is too much of a hassle, why not solve the problem right here, right now?


    Observing the delight in Sun family¡¯s eyes, he curled his lips into a smile and added, ¡°But remember, if you can¡¯t find anything, then you are guilty of false usation.¡±


    ¡°Moreover, 1¡¯11 ask Dr. Wu to examine your daughter right now and if she¡¯s still a virgin, then you¡¯ve falsely used me of another crime.¡±


    ¡°And your false usations are incredibly malicious. They not only tarnish my reputation but also that of Miss Qiao Xiaomai. You are certainly deserving of fifty hard whacks. Neither you nor your daughter shall escape.¡±


    Witnessing the drastic change in Sun Family¡¯splexion, he deepened the cold sneer at the corner of his mouth, challenging her, ¡°Dare you?¡±

 Chapter 207 - 207: Heart-Wrenching

    Chapter 207: Heart-Wrenching


    Trantor: 549690339


    Sun Family¡¯s matron was taken aback as she looked at the amused and eerily cold Tong Sang, feeling a sudden shiver run through her.


    However, she was already in too deep to back out now.


    The reason she was able toe here and make a fuss today was because of Sun Junyan¡¯s dramatic threat of suicide at home, forcing Qiao Qinghe to refrain from intervening in this matter.


    If she didn¡¯t seed today, she might as well say goodbye to any chance of mending her rtionship with Qiao Qinghe.


    Moreover, Qiao Meipan would find it difficult to get married in the future because of this incident.


    This scheme of hers gambles on her standing in the family and on her daughter¡¯s future!


    Failure is simply not an option!


    With this thought, the matron, initially timid, became firm again. She shouted loudly, ¡°Why would 1 be afraid?! Today you must take responsibility for Meipan!¡±


    ¡°Alright.¡± Tong Sang chuckled, looking at the crowd around him. ¡°Can someone please fetch Doctor Wu? Thank you.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll go!¡± A boy, around seven or eight years old, volunteered and began running towards Doctor Wu¡¯s house.


    Tong Sang smiled as he watched the little boy, then turned his gaze back to the gathering vigers. About to invite them into the Courtyard, Qiao Xiaomai interrupted him from the Donkey Cart, ¡°Wait.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s the matter?¡± Tong Sang asked her.


    All eyes in the crowd turned to her.


    Wearing a puzzled expression, Qiao Xiaomai asked, ¡°I don¡¯t understand. What is she supposed to find in your room?¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s holding a pair of underpants, apparently stolen from some random man, and wants to search your room. What does she mean by that?¡±


    ¡°She probably thinks I have two pairs of such underpants. Now she has one pair, so if she finds another pair in my room, she can frame me.¡± Tong Sang exined.


    Not only did he answer Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s question, he also rified the situation to everyone else.


    The gathered vigers were, until now, also puzzled by the matron¡¯s intent to search Tong Sang¡¯s room.


    ¡°I get it now.¡± Qiao Xiaomai nodded, feeling reassured by Tong Sang¡¯s confident demeanor, and refrained from asking him further.


    If Tong Sang couldn¡¯t handle such a minor issue, he would indeed be rather foolish.


    Then Tong Sang said, ¡°In order to prove my innocence, I wee you all toe in and see.¡±


    ¡°Of course. We need to prevent the matron from pulling another pair of stolen underpants from her own bag and falsely iming them to be yours.¡± Qiao Xiaomai hopped off the Donkey Cart as she spoke.


    Tong Sang found himself pleasantly surprised by her response.


    Her words were so fitting, so considerate.


    How could there be such an endearing girl in this world?


    Unfortunately, he still felt like he didn¡¯t quite measure up to her.


    Even with his status as the young master of Tingfeng Pavilion, he found himself in an awkward and humbling position now.


    He sighed quietly and ushered the onlookers into the Courtyard.


    Tong Tiehu and Qian Family¡¯s matron led the way for the crowd.


    He was thest to enter, walking beside Qiao Xiaomai, ¡°Thanks, Miss Qiao.¡±


    ¡°Why thank me? I¡¯m not helping you, I¡¯m helping myself. The matron has been trying to tarnish my reputation.¡± Qiao Xiaomai gestured for Qiao Dami and Changsun to stay in the Donkey Cart and wait, speaking casually.


    Tong Sang¡±¡­¡±


    Even though he anticipated this response, hearing it hurt in an odd way.


    He put his hand over his heart and managed a bitter smile, ¡°Let¡¯s go in.¡±


    The courtyard of the Tong Family was simr to that of the Qiao Family. The main hall was arge blue-brick building where Tong Tiehu, Qian Family¡¯s matron, Tong Xingda and Zhang Family¡¯s matron resided. There were two tile-roofed houses on each side. The house on the eastern side was inhabited by Tong Eng and Zhu Hongyun, while Tong Sang resided on the western side..

 Chapter 208 - 208: Of Course Couldn’t Turn Over

    Chapter 208: Of Course Couldn¡¯t Turn Over


    Trantor: 549690339


    Compared to ordinary vigers, Tong Sang¡¯s room was much more refined. There was a desk in front of the window and a bookcase leaning against the wall, filled with books.


    The vigers who rushed in subconsciously held their breath at these two items, the precious scent of books which was not often experienced.


    However, clearly, the Sun Family wasn¡¯t concerned with the scent of books at that moment. Upon entering the room, her eyes darted around, naturally fixating on the bed and the wardrobe.


    Tong Sang¡¯s bed was neatly made; the covers were folded, and its entirety was in in sight.


    Only the cupboard was left.


    Most people in Anping Vige used chests for clothes, as did Qiao Xiaomai. However, as the grandson of the Vige Chief, Tong Sang used a wardrobe to store his clothes.


    Sun Family was about to pounce on the wardrobe when Tong Tiehu shouted, ¡°Hold on!¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll search Sang¡¯s wardrobe myself, to prevent you from dirtying his clothes!¡±


    Hearing this, the Sun Family gripped the underwear tighter; she was incredulous that Sang¡¯s underwear could grow wings and fly away!


    She had seen Tong Sang¡¯s underwear fly with her own eyes.


    After searching through the wardrobe, she didn¡¯t find any underwear of the same color in her hand. However, she found a robe of the same color and fabric.


    The whole room watched; in the cupboard, that pair of underwear truly was missing.


    Staring at the clothes spread on the bed, the Sun Family shook her head unconsciously, ¡°Impossible, impossible¡­¡±


    ¡°FImph, shameless old goods, what¡¯s so impossible? You¡¯re simply framing Sang!¡± Du Qing¡¯ai scolded.


    The Sun Family¡¯s mind was in chaos, she quickly turned her gaze to the neatly folded quilt on the bed. ¡°It must be hidden in the quilt!¡±


    ¡°Stop, no need for you to touch anything!¡± Du Qing¡¯ai quickly stopped her.


    Dirty hands!


    If they touched Tong Sang¡¯s clothes, he would certainly have to wash them!


    ¡°Let me do it.¡± Tong Sang stepped forward, shaking out the quilt.


    There was nothing inside.


    He looked at the Sun Family, a cold smile creeping onto his lips. ¡°Before you arrived, I had no time to prepare and hide anything. If I say it¡¯s not there, it means it¡¯s not there.¡±


    ¡°Hey, Sun Family, do you want to check under the bed? If there¡¯s nothing beneath the bed, you¡¯d better look in the chicken coop, the cowshed, and thetrine outside. You¡¯d better touch every inch of ground. This is rted to the fifty spanks you and your daughter are due.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai also spoke coldly.


    However, her words made both Tong Sang and Tong Tiehu tense up.


    There was a secret tunnel under their home¡­


    Given Sun Family¡¯s willingness to search Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s home for silver, she might actually find that secret tunnel.


    The people present didn¡¯t know what Tong Sang and Tong Tiehu were thinking. Hearing Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s words, they broke intoughter immediately.


    Everyone knew about Sun Family¡¯s act of ransacking Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s house, Xiaomai¡¯s words were clearly a form of mockery.


    Sun Family was dumbfounded,pletely dumbfounded.


    That day, Zhu Cuiying came to see Zhu Hongyun and inadvertently saw Tong Sang sunning that freshly cleaned pair of underwear with her own eyes! She saw it with her own eyes!


    Tong Sang wouldn¡¯t wash someone else¡¯s underwear, would he?


    Those underpants must be Tong Sang¡¯s!


    But why can¡¯t she find them now?


    Why can¡¯t she find them?!


    Sun Family was antsy, just like ants on a hot pan. This time, she had put both Qiao Meipan¡¯s reputation and her rtionship with Qiao Qinghe at stake.


    She needed to seed! Failure was not an option!

 Chapter 209 - 209: You Pulled Down Your Pants!

    Chapter 209: You Pulled Down Your Pants!


    Trantor: 549690339


    At this moment of crisis, Madame Sun came up with another possibility. She suddenly looked at Tong Sande, her elderly face twisted with anxiety.


    However, under this distortion, there was a glint of hope. She lunged at Tong Sande like a person grasping at their final lifeline, her eyes bulging outward with intensity, painting quite a terrifying scene.


    ¡°If it¡¯s not in the closet, it must be on you!¡±


    ¡°Take your pants off and let everyone see!¡±


    Thinking back to Tong Sande¡¯s previously arrogant demeanor, she yelled out, her voice high-pitched and fervent, ¡°You dared to invite everyone in, you must be wearing them. Take your pants off now, take them off!¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai¡±¡­¡±


    The spectating vigers¡±¡­¡±


    Tong Tiehu¡¯s beard bristled with fury. It was infuriating, utterly infuriating!


    Tong Sande twitched the corner of his mouth, raising his leg without hesitation.


    His movement was swift. His long, straight right leg was put up against Madame Sun¡¯s neck, stopping her lunging movement.


    His handsome face hardened, he spoke coldly: ¡°Grandpa, I suggest, we drive Madame Sun out of the vige. Our vige is full of good people; we shouldn¡¯t let this rat ruin the reputation of our vige.¡±


    This was humiliating, too goddam humiliating.


    Madame Sun had forced him to show his closet to everyone, and now she was forcing him to take off his pants.


    Gone.


    He had lost all face in front of Qiao Xiaomai.


    He deeply regretted revealing his identity as the young lord of Tingfeng Pavilion.


    Has there ever been such a disgraced young lord?


    It would have been better for him just to let Qiao Xiaomai think he was an ordinary country boy!


    He really wanted to kick Madame Sun to death just like this!


    Madame Sun was unable to perceive Tong Sande¡¯s deep resentment. Despite being choked by his foot against her neck, she only became more thrilled.


    That¡¯s right, Tong Sande must be feeling guilty.


    She was right, he must have put on those obscene trousers.


    Thinking of this, the hopeful glow on her old face grew brighter, and her features twisted further. She let out a piercing screech, ¡°You¡¯re wearing them, so you dare not take off your pants to let everyone see. You took advantage of Meipan, you must take responsibility for her!¡±


    ¡°Bullshit!¡± Tong Tiehu could no longer contain himself and broke out in a curse, disregarding decorum.


    His carefully brought-up grandson was being forced by a shrew to strip in public to prove his innocence.


    It was too despicable, too hateful!


    ¡°Gag her, tie her up, drag her out, and beat her! Beat her until she¡¯s almost dead, 1 don¡¯t believe she won¡¯t tell the truth!¡±


    Due to his rage, Tong Tiehu¡¯s voice trembled slightly.


    At the fall of his words, Du Qing¡¯ai was the first to step forward to grab Madame Sun.


    Maintaining a good rtionship with her son, she had watched Tong Sande grow up. Seeing Madame Sun¡¯s harsh treatment of him, she had been itching to step in!


    A few other women also stepped forward, prepared to grab Madame Sun.


    This was too much, to strip a man¡¯s pants in public, it was utterly vicious!


    Madame Sun, seeing the situation unfold, began to yell, ¡°On what grounds do you tie me up?! Tong Sande has taken advantage of Meipan, those obscene pants are on him. His refusal to strip is his admission of guilt!¡±


    ¡°Shut your mouth! You better get ready to be beaten half dead, then kicked out of Anping Vige!¡± Du Qing¡¯ai brought a handkerchief from her bosom to gag Madame Sun¡¯s mouth.


    With her mouth gagged, and being pulled by four or five women, Madame Sun was dragged out of the room.


    Immediately, the men fetched the rods and benches from the storehouse, ready to carry out the punishment..

 Chapter 210 - 210: Fight!

    Chapter 210: Fight!


    Trantor: 549690339


    Soon, the Sun Familydy was restrained on a bench, with four women holding her down. Du Qing¡¯ai picked up a stick, rolled up her sleeves, and wiped her palms, her face full of enthusiasm.


    She had long wanted to beat the Sun Familydy with her own hands!


    The Sun Familydy¡¯s mouth was gagged and her hands and feet were held down. She was struggling with all her might, but to no avail.


    Even if she reached her limit under hysteria, she could not resist the strength of four people.


    ¡°Wait.¡± Seeing Du Qing¡¯ai about to raise the stick, Tong Sang spoke up with a gloomy face.


    ¡°Sang, what¡¯s wrong?¡± Du Qing¡¯ai asked, confused.


    ¡°If you¡¯re going to beat someone, there has to be a reason,¡± Tong Sang said.


    ¡°What reason do we need? Isn¡¯t her bullshit just now enough?!¡± Du Qing¡¯ai retorted.


    ¡°Not enough.¡± Tong Sang shook his head slightly.


    Sun Familydy wanted him to drop his pants to prove his innocence. Although everyone was acting ording to Tong Tiehu¡¯s words, some people might still have doubts.


    He didn¡¯t want to give people anything to talk about.


    Just as he was about to open his mouth, Tong Eng¡¯s voice came from outside, ¡°Eh, what¡¯s going on? Why are so many people here?¡±


    At Tong Sang¡¯s words, he looked up at the door, only to see Tong Eng and Zhu Hongyun walking in, both holding parcels in their hands.


    ¡°Second Brother, you¡¯vee back just in time,¡± Tong Sang walked up a few steps quickly to Tong Eng¡¯s side, pointing at the Sun Familydy who was held down on the bench.


    At this time, the Sun Familydy was still holding onto that piece of silk shorts. She didn¡¯t let go.


    ¡°Second Brother, look at these shorts,¡± Tong Sang said.


    Tong Eng looked in the direction he was pointing, and then gave a surprise, ¡°Isn¡¯t this mine?¡±


    When he saw clearly the Sun Familydy, he was shocked, ¡°Why are my shorts in her hand!¡±


    At these words, everyone was dumbfounded for a moment, and then their expressions became subtle.


    Sun Familydy said this pair of shorts were left behind by Tong Sang when he had a secret rendezvous with Qiao Meipan in the mountains yesterday.


    But now the shorts had been imed by Tong Eng.


    So, what Sun Familydy said was obviously nonsense.


    However, how could Sun Familydy have a pair of shorts that are identical to Tong Eng¡¯s?


    Could it be that there was a secret rtionship between Tong Eng and Qiao Meipan?


    With everyone¡¯s strange expression, Tong Sang¡¯s gaze swept over them, and then he looked meaningfully at Zhu Hongyun standing next to him.


    ¡°Second Brother, Sun Familydy said these are the shorts left behind by a man who had an affair with her daughter Qiao Meipan. She thought that man was me, so she came to ckmail me, insisting that I take responsibility for her daughter.¡±


    ¡°What?! ¡°When he heard this, Tong Eng immediately got upset, ¡°This does look like my shorts, but I¡¯ve never had anything to do with her daughter! Where did she steal my shorts from?¡±


    At his words, Zhu Hongyun¡¯s pretty face darkened, ¡°I¡¯ve been with Eng all the time, he never saw Qiao Meipan!¡±


    ¡°Second Brother, Second Sister-inw, don¡¯t worry, I believe Second Brother, where are your shorts? Go and bring them out.¡± Tong Sang said.


    ¡°Oh, yes!¡± Tong Eng stamped his foot and immediately went to open his room.


    Zhu Hongyun also quickly followed.


    A momentter, the couple came out holding an identical pair of shorts.


    ¡°Mine is in the cupboard, where did this old woman steal another one from?¡±


    Tong Sang smiled faintly, ¡°This question should be asked to Sun Familydy and Qiao Meipan.¡±


    Sun Familydy struggled harder.


    Qiao Meipan was already stupefied.


    It was obviously Tong Sang¡¯s, so how did it be Tong Eng¡¯s?


    ¡°No need to question, let¡¯s beat her first.¡± Tong Tiehu said grimly.


    Now that he had proved his grandson¡¯s innocence, he would beat Sun Familydy to the brink of death to force her to confess the truth.


    Thinking of this, he waved his hand and gave the order, ¡°Beat!¡±


    Du Qing¡¯ai responded loudly, lifting the stick and mming it down hard on Sun Familydy.


    The stick hitting her flesh produced a dull thud.


    Sun Familydy let out a muffled groan, and tears of pain welled up in her flushed eyes.


    This was just the beginning.


    She was going to be beaten until she was barely breathing..

 Chapter 212 - 212: Dog Bites Dog

    Chapter 212: Dog Bites Dog


    Trantor: 549690339


    Tong Eng was also taken aback, he quickly wanted to join the melee.


    Tong Sang stepped forward, blocking him, ¡°Second brother, this is women¡¯s business, it¡¯s best you stay out of it.¡±


    He looked around as he spoke, ¡°Which of youdies cane over and break them up?¡±


    From the crowd, two women stepped forward to separate Zhu Hongyun and Qiao Meipan.


    However, the two fighters were inseparable, and the women unintentionally received a few blows.


    ¡°Your sister-inw is bleeding from her face!¡± Upon seeing this, Tong Eng couldn¡¯t hold back anymore, shrugged off Tong Sang, and joined the fray.


    Tong Sang didn¡¯t stop him this time, he watched coldly as Tong Eng delivered a fierce kick to Qiao Meipan. It seemed Sun Family¡¯s antics today certainly had something to do with Zhu Hongyun.


    Qiao Xiaomai also coldly watching the scene, a thinly veiled mockery in his deep, dewy peach blossom eyes.


    Although Zhu Hongyun hadn¡¯t directly provoked her, she was clearly not a good person, joining Zhu Cuiying¡¯s plots.


    Good, let the dogs bite the dogs.


    With Tong Eng joining the fight, soon, along with Zhu Hongyun, they beat Qiao Meipan ck and blue.


    Qiao Meipan¡¯s hair was a mess, her face marked with bloody prints, her clothes covered in dust. She was in a state of utter chaos.


    ¡°Enough! Stop beating her!¡± Seeing that Zhu Hongyun and Tong Eng were relentless, Tong Tiehu called for a halt.


    If she passes out from this beating, how would she withstand the paddlingter?


    Qiao Meipan still had fifty strokes to go!


    Out of breath, Zhu Hongyun and Tong Eng finally stopped. Tong Tiehu spared a nce at the half-dead Sun family member, and immediately said, ¡°Okay, carry her away, and bring up Qiao Meipan.¡±


    At this point, the woman from Sun family was on the verge of unconsciousness, no longer resisting. A few women picked her up from the bench and tossed her to the side, then went to grab Qiao Meipan.


    Qiao Meipan, now with a swollen face and aches all over her body, took a nce at Sun family¡¯s woman¡¯s pitiful state, her heart trembled uncontrobly.


    ¡°I¡¯ll tell, 1¡¯11 tell! Please don¡¯t hit me! Stop it!¡± She screamed, evading the women and rolling on the ground.


    ¡°It was my eldest sister-inw who came to visit. She saw the third brother washing the obscene pants, then saw that my fifth brother had bought the same fabric for clothing, so she made ament! The idea was my fifth brother¡¯s, if you want to hit someone, hit him. It has nothing to do with me!¡±


    ¡°It has nothing to do with me, please don¡¯t hit me!¡±


    If she implicated Sun Junyan¡ªshe would die in the future.


    If she didn¡¯t implicate him¡ªshe would die now.


    Qiao Meipan hesitated for a moment and chose thetter.


    Every moment she could survive longer counted!


    Things had escted to this point; she didn¡¯t know how to resolve it. Maybe everyone would just die together!


    Once Qiao Meipan made her statement, everyone suddenly understood.


    Tong Tiehu coldly stared at Zhu Hongyun. The initially fiery Zhu Hongyun withered into a submissive wife under his frosty gaze, constantly moving behind Tong Eng.


    ¡°Hmph! Capture Qiao Meipan, hit her!¡± Tong Tiehu waved his arm at this and gave the order.


    Qiao Meipan screamed, ¡°I told the truth! I told the-¡±


    Her cry was abruptly silenced.


    Someone had stuffed a cloth into her mouth.


    She received the same treatment as the woman from the Sun family¡ªbruised to the point of bleeding and on the verge of unconsciousness.


    At this point, Doctor Wu arrived. He briefly checked on the two women and went home to fetch medicine.


    Initially, he was asked to verify whether Qiao Meipan was still a virgin, but by now, that didn¡¯t matter anymore.


    Tong Tiehu ordered Tong Sang to prepare the ox cart, heaved Sun and Qiao onto it, and headed for the Qiao Family.


    Today, Tong Sang had been forced to this point, he was really going to expel the woman from the Sun Family from Anping Vige.


    Not to mention the Sun Junyan, who was always like a gutter rat hiding behind the Sun family woman and scheming.


    A person like this would only tarnish the reputation of Anping Vige..

 Chapter 212 - 212: Dog Bites Dog

    Chapter 212: Dog Bites Dog


    Trantor: 549690339


    Tong Eng was also taken aback, he quickly wanted to join the melee.


    Tong Sang stepped forward, blocking him, ¡°Second brother, this is women¡¯s business, it¡¯s best you stay out of it.¡±


    He looked around as he spoke, ¡°Which of youdies cane over and break them up?¡±


    From the crowd, two women stepped forward to separate Zhu Hongyun and Qiao Meipan.


    However, the two fighters were inseparable, and the women unintentionally received a few blows.


    ¡°Your sister-inw is bleeding from her face!¡± Upon seeing this, Tong Eng couldn¡¯t hold back anymore, shrugged off Tong Sang, and joined the fray.


    Tong Sang didn¡¯t stop him this time, he watched coldly as Tong Eng delivered a fierce kick to Qiao Meipan. It seemed Sun Family¡¯s antics today certainly had something to do with Zhu Hongyun.


    Qiao Xiaomai also coldly watching the scene, a thinly veiled mockery in his deep, dewy peach blossom eyes. @@novelbin@@


    Although Zhu Hongyun hadn¡¯t directly provoked her, she was clearly not a good person, joining Zhu Cuiying¡¯s plots.


    Good, let the dogs bite the dogs.


    With Tong Eng joining the fight, soon, along with Zhu Hongyun, they beat Qiao Meipan ck and blue.


    Qiao Meipan¡¯s hair was a mess, her face marked with bloody prints, her clothes covered in dust. She was in a state of utter chaos.


    ¡°Enough! Stop beating her!¡± Seeing that Zhu Hongyun and Tong Eng were relentless, Tong Tiehu called for a halt.


    If she passes out from this beating, how would she withstand the paddlingter?


    Qiao Meipan still had fifty strokes to go!


    Out of breath, Zhu Hongyun and Tong Eng finally stopped. Tong Tiehu spared a nce at the half-dead Sun family member, and immediately said, ¡°Okay, carry her away, and bring up Qiao Meipan.¡±


    At this point, the woman from Sun family was on the verge of unconsciousness, no longer resisting. A few women picked her up from the bench and tossed her to the side, then went to grab Qiao Meipan.


    Qiao Meipan, now with a swollen face and aches all over her body, took a nce at Sun family¡¯s woman¡¯s pitiful state, her heart trembled uncontrobly.


    ¡°I¡¯ll tell, 1¡¯11 tell! Please don¡¯t hit me! Stop it!¡± She screamed, evading the women and rolling on the ground.


    ¡°It was my eldest sister-inw who came to visit. She saw the third brother washing the obscene pants, then saw that my fifth brother had bought the same fabric for clothing, so she made ament! The idea was my fifth brother¡¯s, if you want to hit someone, hit him. It has nothing to do with me!¡±


    ¡°It has nothing to do with me, please don¡¯t hit me!¡±


    If she implicated Sun Junyan¡ªshe would die in the future.


    If she didn¡¯t implicate him¡ªshe would die now.


    Qiao Meipan hesitated for a moment and chose thetter.


    Every moment she could survive longer counted!


    Things had escted to this point; she didn¡¯t know how to resolve it. Maybe everyone would just die together!


    Once Qiao Meipan made her statement, everyone suddenly understood.


    Tong Tiehu coldly stared at Zhu Hongyun. The initially fiery Zhu Hongyun withered into a submissive wife under his frosty gaze, constantly moving behind Tong Eng.


    ¡°Hmph! Capture Qiao Meipan, hit her!¡± Tong Tiehu waved his arm at this and gave the order.


    Qiao Meipan screamed, ¡°I told the truth! I told the-¡±


    Her cry was abruptly silenced.


    Someone had stuffed a cloth into her mouth.


    She received the same treatment as the woman from the Sun family¡ªbruised to the point of bleeding and on the verge of unconsciousness.


    At this point, Doctor Wu arrived. He briefly checked on the two women and went home to fetch medicine.


    Initially, he was asked to verify whether Qiao Meipan was still a virgin, but by now, that didn¡¯t matter anymore.


    Tong Tiehu ordered Tong Sang to prepare the ox cart, heaved Sun and Qiao onto it, and headed for the Qiao Family.


    Today, Tong Sang had been forced to this point, he was really going to expel the woman from the Sun Family from Anping Vige.


    Not to mention the Sun Junyan, who was always like a gutter rat hiding behind the Sun family woman and scheming.


    A person like this would only tarnish the reputation of Anping Vige..

 Chapter 213 - 213: Driven Out of the Village

    Chapter 213: Driven Out of the Vige


    Trantor: 549690339


    A crowd of people rushed towards the old courtyard of the Qiao Family.


    Qiao Xiaomai followed them.


    Of course, in order to prevent Qiao Changshun from melting in soft-heartedness, she asked him to stay on the donkey cart and not to join the crowd.


    At this moment, Qiao Changshun felt as if he was sitting on a bed of nails. Despite renouncing his kinship, the Sun Family was still his mother¡¯s family. Now that they were being beaten severely, it was enough to drive him crazy with worry.


    But with no money and no medical skills at his disposal, he could only sit on the donkey cart feeling helpless.


    ¡°Out of sight, out of mind, dad. You and Dami just wait here on the donkey cart,¡± Qiao Xiaomai said and then followed the crowd to the Qiao¡¯s house.


    The old courtyard of the Qiao Family.


    It was time for fieldwork, but Qiao Qinghe was sitting at the door, on a moved stool, his once erect back now bent, his eyes devoid of life staring nkly at a lump of soil on the ground. He looked haggard.


    That morning, his most beloved youngest son, Sun Junyan, who had been beaten to the point of unconsciousness the day before, had forced him with a knife to his own neck to agree to the absurd idea of Sun Family and Qiao Meipan.


    He was nning to threaten Tong Sang with just a breach-cloth to marry into the Tong Family.


    Such idiocy¡­


    And greediness¡­


    How could his good son be so twisted? @@novelbin@@


    Why did he be like this¡­


    Not understanding why Sun Junyan turned out like this, he moved a stool to the doorway after Sun Family and Qiao Meipan left. Qiao Changfu¡¯s family went to the fields, and Sun Junyan was lying in bed in the house.


    Maybe after a long time, or perhaps not too long, there was chaos of footstep soundsing from outside.


    He very gradually shifted his gaze.


    Leading the way was Tong Tiehu, and right behind him was Tong Sang driving a bull cart.


    On the bull cart were two bloody figures, one was his wife, and the other was his young daughter.


    Being beaten like this, he was really not surprised.


    He wished they were beaten harder, so those unrealistic thoughts of Sun Family and Qiao Meipan could be entirely beaten out.


    ¡°Qinghe, good that you¡¯re at home,¡± Tong Tiehu said as soon as he saw Qiao Qinghe sitting at the doorway. He waved his gigantic hand, signaling everyone to stop.


    ¡°Do you know what happened?¡± he asked when he saw no surprise on Qiao Qinghe¡¯s face.


    Qiao Qinghe nodded, his face showing shame and self-me, ¡°I know.¡±


    ¡°If that¡¯s the case, then let¡¯s talk about the result of the punishment.¡± Tong Tiehu pointed towards Sun Family and Qiao Meipan on the bull cart, ¡°These two havemitted too severe an offense. After discussing with the vigers, we decided to expel them from Anping Vige.¡±


    ¡°From now on, they won¡¯t be a part of Anping Vige. Oh right, and Sun Junyan too. He came up with this idea. He¡¯s worse. I will visit the academyter to inform the master about his actions.¡±


    ¡°Allowing such people to touch books is a sphemy to our sages and schrs.¡±


    At these words, Qiao Qinghe¡¯s face froze.


    He wouldn¡¯t be surprised if Sun Family and Qiao Meipan were beaten half to death, but to be expelled from the vige¡­


    Wasn¡¯t this punishment too harsh?


    ¡°Vige Chief, if you drive them out of the vige, they won¡¯t have anywhere to go!¡± Qiao Qinghe implored urgently.


    Other women who made mistakes could be divorced back to their own families, but Sun Family¡¯s home was in Anping Vige. If they were expelled now, they would have no ce to go.


    In those years, though he and Sun Family had no marital feelings, she was very good to him.


    And Qiao Meipan and Sun Junyan, they were his children after all. If they were really expelled, their lives would be ruined..

 Chapter 214 - 214: Step Back

    Chapter 214: Step Back


    Trantor: 549690339


    Tong Tiehu stared with a stern expression, his gaze sharp as a knife, ¡°Go wherever you want, Anping Vige can¡¯t tolerate such sinister people anyway.¡± ¡°Vige Chief, they know they¡¯ve made a mistake, give them another chance. They really won¡¯t dare again. Once more, give them one more chance!¡± Qiao Qinghe pleaded.


    ¡°You think they really won¡¯t dare?¡± Tong Tiehu counter-questioned, ¡°You didn¡¯t see what happened just now, do you know how hysterical the Sun family has be?¡±


    Out of sympathy for his grandson, he didn¡¯t revisit the details to spare Tong Sang further embarrassment.


    However, his tone had hardened, ¡°Qinghe, there¡¯s no room for discussion on this issue.¡±


    ¡°These three people have to leave Anping Vige today.¡±


    ¡°But they have nowhere to go!¡± Qiao Qinghe became anxious.


    ¡°Doesn¡¯t your family own farnd? They could build a shack in the field. When you exiled Changshun and his family, that¡¯s what he did,¡± Tong Tiehu suggested.


    Upon hearing this, Qiao Qinghe¡¯s face turned red.


    He had been misguided back then with his single-minded determination to nurture Sun Junyan, which resulted in him over-exploiting Qiao Changshun. However, all of this is in the past now.


    Now, the most important thing is the trio of Sun Junyan, Qiao Meipan, and the Sun family!


    ¡°Vige Chief, the three of them are all injured. It¡¯s only April, if they live in a shack, they might not make it!¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not too cold now, if they wrap themselves properly with nkets, they can make it through,¡± Tong Tiehu said firmly.


    ¡°Vige Chief, this is a matter of life and death. Can you let them leave after they¡¯ve recovered? Please tolerate them for a few more days. In their current state, they definitely won¡¯t cause any trouble, 1 promise!¡± Qiao Qinghe put down his pride and pleaded continuously.


    Tong Tiehu pondered for a moment and nodded, ¡°Okay, you can start building a shack for them. Once they recover, they will leave Anping Vige immediately.¡±


    If these three were to die because they can¡¯t endure the hardship, he, who originally held the moral high ground, might end up looking unreasonable.


    ¡°Absolutely, absolutely.¡± Qiao Qinghe nodded continuously, secretly relieved.


    At least they weren¡¯t expelled immediately, which indicated that things could still change.


    Thank goodness they were seriously injured!


    ¡°Treat their injuries well. With Doctor Wu present, they will recover quickly.¡± Tong Tiehu turned around and ordered several women to carry the Sun family and Qiao Meipan down.


    ¡°Alright, all of you can disperse now.¡± He waved his broad hands gesturing everyone to leave.


    Although it was not a busy farming season, each household had chores to do. Once the excitement had subsided, everybody retreated back home.


    Tong Tiehu and Tong Sang drove the ox cart home, while Qiao Xiaomai hesitated for a moment before following them.


    She didn¡¯t actually have much to say to Qiao Qinghe.


    ¡°Xiaomai, are you going to town?¡± Tong Tiehu asked. @@novelbin@@


    ¡°Yes. My father¡¯s leg has been hurting, so we¡¯re going to see a doctor.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s perfect, we can go together. I¡¯m heading to the Academy to see Sun Junyan¡¯s teacher. A student like him should be expelled,¡± said Tong Tiehu.


    This time, he was really going to cut off all of Sun Junyan¡¯s escape routes, step by step forcing him into a dead end.


    The grudge he harbored today was massive.


    Upon hearing this, Qiao Xiaomai subconsciously nced at Tong Sang.


    Tong Sang stood tall, leading the ox with his hand, staring straight ahead, not even casting a sidelong nce in her direction.


    Seeing him like this, she inexplicably felt likeughing.


    In the beginning, she was afraid that the vigers would gossip, and she was afraid that Tong Sang would overthink, so whenever she saw him, she would want to run and hide.


    But it¡¯s different now.


    It was in that now it was Tong Sang who wanted to avoid her.


    She was sure that Tong Sang¡¯s current thoughts were the same as hers when her period first began: From now on, I really hope we don¡¯t see each other again.


    This was dreadfully embarrassing..

 Chapter 215 - 215: Let it Be

    Chapter 215: Let it Be


    Trantor: 549690339


    ¡°Alright.¡± Qiao Xiaomai nodded.


    Anyhow, besides selling the house, there¡¯s not much contact left. Considering the past help from this grandfather and grandson, she didn¡¯t mind giving a smile.


    Aside from visiting the town, she came this time to deliver dried tofu as well.


    ¡°All, another fresh delicacy, how clever and handy.¡± Tong Tiehu praised.


    Qiao Xiaomai smiled shyly, not saying much.


    But Tong Sang nced at Qiao Xiaomai, and felt disappointed.


    His previous idea was to have Qiao Xiaomai sell the recipe for dried beancurd sticks, but now Qiao Xiaomai was dabbling in new things.


    It seemed she didn¡¯t n to sell to Jiwei Residence anymore.


    She had no intention to have any furthered association with him.


    But this was also in line with what he wanted after today¡¯s embarrassing debacle carried out by the Sun family. It genuinely made him lose facepletely.


    Underpants, private clothing, inherently carried some degree of impropriety and shouldn¡¯t be exposed frivolously.


    However, today his wardrobe was raided and scrutinized by everyone.


    What¡¯s more outrageous was that the crazy woman, Mrs. Sun, actually wanted to strip off his pants.


    Gosh!


    At that moment, he really wished he could kick Mrs. Sun dead and bury himself in a crack on the ground.


    The girl he fancied was watching the whole thing!


    Looking back at the moment he revealed his young master status, he just wished he could go back in time and p himself fiercely.


    So stupid.


    He hadpletely lost all dignity.


    But this was good, as Qiao Xiaomai didn¡¯t n to have any more contact with him.


    Let it be.


    At this moment, Tong Tiehu spoke up, bringing back his far-flown thoughts, ¡°Sang, go wash the ox cart.¡±


    The blood stains from Sun¡¯s family and Qiao Meipan had stained the cart.


    He hastilyplied and carried the bucket to clean the ox cart.


    Tong Tiehu, who didn¡¯t know his grandson¡¯s thoughts, took this opportunity to call Zhu Hongyun and Tong Erniang over and gave them a good reprimand.


    They should keep their distance from a woman like Zhu Cuiying!


    ¡°Xiaoyun treats Zhu Cuiying like a rtive, who knew that she would cause such a mess for Xiaoyun as soon as she turned around. It¡¯s not Xiaoyun¡¯s fault.¡± Tong Erniang murmured softly.


    Hearing this, Tong Tiehu puffed up in anger.


    At this moment, he shared the same emotion as Qiao Qing: How did he raise such a thing!


    Qiao Xiaomai stood aside, maintaining an aloofposure as if she didn¡¯t hear anything.


    Every family has its difficulty to deal with. @@novelbin@@


    But judging from the huge gap between Tong Sang and Tong Erniang, it¡¯s obvious that the Tong family¡¯s secret must not be small.


    But in ancient times, the biggest secrets were often about treason.


    Such a colossal crime. After selling her house, she mustn¡¯t have any entanglements with them.


    Thinking this way, once Tong Sang finished washing the cart, the two families set off for the town.


    On the way, Qiao Xiaomai kept silent, while Qiao Changshun and Tong Tiehu chatted about farming. Qiao Dami was conversing incessantly with Tong Sang.


    After reaching the town, Tiehu and Sang headed for the academy, while Qiao Xiaomai and her family went to the medical clinic.


    When Qiao Changshun first wentme, it was this clinic that he visited. Upon hearing that his leg was hurting again, the doctor swiftly prescribed medicine.


    It looked simr to what Doctor Wu prescribed.


    Qiao Xiaomai also exined her condition, and the doctor wrote another prescription. Again, it looked simr to Doctor Wu¡¯s medicine.


    Carrying tworge bags of medicinal materials, the family left the clinic.


    Qiao Xiaomai wondered to herself, the medicine from both ces is almost the same, is it effective¡­


    ¡°Let¡¯s go to Zuixian Building, it¡¯s almost noon.¡± She suggested..

 Chapter 216 - 216: Selling Vegetarian Meat

    Chapter 216: Selling Vegetarian Meat


    Trantor: 549690339 @@novelbin@@


    Upon arriving at the Zuixian Building, Shopkeeper Zhou of course greeted them with a smile.


    Knowing that Qiao Xiaomai wanted to sell dried tofu, he immediately had an even bigger grin on his face.


    Even though the product was still made from soybeans, it was a fresh idea. Pairing it with their existing items, ah, the Zuixian Building menu could be updated once again!


    Shopkeeper Zhou looked at Qiao Xiaomai as if he was looking at a gold Yuanbao, the more he looked at her, the more satisfied he became.


    ¡°Miss Qiao, you¡¯re indeed very ingenious, and alwaysing up with new and surprising creations,¡± he praised.


    Upon hearing this, Qiao Xiaomai just smiled, ¡°Shopkeeper, I¡¯m the seller this time round. We have cooperated many times, so 1 won¡¯t ask for too much. For this vegetarian meat recipe, two hundred taels.¡±


    She held out two fingers as she spoke.


    That¡¯s right, just like how tofu pudding be White Jade Flower, the dried tofu also got a new name: Vegetarian Meat.


    The method of making dried tofu is slightly moreplicated than tofu skin, but it¡¯s quite simple to exin. To sell it at a high price, Qiao Xiaomai could only rename it.


    Shopkeeper Zhou lifted his hand and stroked his beard. ¡°Miss Qiao, we need to consider the recipe¡¯s ingredients and methods, and decide how much it¡¯s worth based on them, right?¡±


    ¡°All 1 can say is, the profit that this Vegetarian Meat will bring, will definitely exceed two hundred taels.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai continued to smile as she spoke.


    Truth be told, she was a bit frustrated about selling the recipe.


    A recipe is certainly a private innovation, regardless of what the ingredients and methods are. As long as this private innovation exists, how much money it sells for depends entirely on the owner¡¯s asking price.


    No matter how simple the recipe is, as long as other people can¡¯t think of it, you can sell it for money.


    Just like patents inter generations, the first one toe up with the idea should get the patent fee.


    If you are annoyed that it¡¯s too simple after shelling out the money to buy it, then there¡¯s no use. Who told you not to think of the idea that others came up with?


    But the people here are too savvy. Both Shopkeeper He and Shopkeeper Zhou always ask about the ingredients and methods first, and then decide how much silver to give based on them.


    As for her, because these things weren¡¯t her original creations, she didn¡¯t have the heart to demand exorbitant prices.


    But right now, she wants to buy a yard in the town and is in urgent need of silver. This time, she won¡¯t easilypromise.


    ¡°But this two hundred taels¡­¡± Shopkeeper Zhou hesitated.


    Earlier, the cold jelly noodle recipe was only fifty taels, and tofu only traded for over a hundred acres ofnd. This so-called Vegetarian Meat was made from soybeans too, and was probably a variation of tofu.


    A small variation requires two hundred taels¡­


    Tsk, it¡¯s too pricey.


    ¡°If the shopkeeper is unwilling, then I¡¯ll go to Extreme Taste Residence and ask Shopkeeper He.¡± Qiao Xiaomai said.


    ¡°Ah, wait a minute.¡± Shopkeeper Zhou quickly tried to stop her.


    ¡°Shopkeeper, Zuixian Building is arge business, are you hesitating over two hundred taels silver?¡± Qiao Xiaomai asked.


    Shopkeeper Zhou¡¯s chubby face instantly showed a troubled expression. ¡°Miss, you may not know that I¡¯m just a worker here. The real boss is in the Capital City. And when doing business, isn¡¯t bargaining a must?¡±


    ¡°Shopkeeper, the price this time can only be two hundred taels, it can¡¯t be reduced anymore.¡±


    ¡°This¡­¡±


    Shopkeeper Zhou was still somewhat hesitant.


    At this moment, a waiter rushed over from outside. ¡°Shopkeeper, the previous esteemed guest hase again, he has specifically requested for you upstairs.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Shopkeeper Zhou quickly said, ¡°Miss Qiao, please wait a moment, I¡¯ll be back soon.¡±


    The esteemed guest was indeed Yang Ye, who absolutely couldn¡¯t be neglected.


    Hurrying to the best private room on the second floor, Shopkeeper Zhou waited for the guard standing at the door to announce his arrival before he entered.


    Yang Ye was dressed in gorgeous long robes,zily lounging in a chair. Seeing Zhou entering, he pointed his chin towards a girl sitting beside him, ¡°Shopkeeper Zhou, bring that Jade Bamboo you made for mest time. Let the princess taste it.¡±


    Jade Bamboo was indeed tofu skin..

 Chapter 217 - 217 Misfortune Falls from the Sky

    Chapter 217: Misfortune Falls from the Sky


    Trantor: 549690339


    Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s tofu skin was expensive and scant, which Shopkeeper Zhou bought and carefully kept, nning to use it at a critical moment.


    Knowing that He Zhanggui has been trying to curry favor with Yang Ye through Qiao Xiaomai since this visit to Bailu Town, he naturally didn¡¯t want to stay behind, so he decided to bring up this tofu skin.


    However, the name ¡°tofu skin¡± didn¡¯t sound nice, so he changed it to: Jade Bamboo.


    The tofu skin was straight like bamboo.


    And it was orange-yellow in color, simr to gold.


    However, if it is called Golden Bamboo, it seemed somewhat vulgar, so he named it Jade Bamboo.


    This Jade Bamboo not only had a good name but also tasted good. Yang Ye tasted it and couldn¡¯t help praising it, hastily asking about its origin and the method used to make it.


    He told the truth, but Yang Ye only made an ¡°Oh,¡± and didn¡¯t say much.


    This puzzled him, but he quickly put it behind his mind. As long as his Zuixian Building didn¡¯t lose momentum in this confrontation, it was all good.


    Hearing Yang Ye¡¯s instructions, he quickly turned his gaze to the girl sitting next to him.


    The girl was dressed in a white waist-length dress with gold threads embroidered on the edges and a Bai Zhi on the cuff.


    She has an oval face, willow leaf eyebrows, a high nose, and her small cherry lips were rosy. Her ck hair was casually tied up in a bun, with a white jade hairpin stuck in it.


    A delicate red bell was hanging on the jade hairpin, making a clear sound as she moved slightly.


    White clothing, Bai Zhi, red bell. @@novelbin@@


    Upon seeing these three items, Shopkeeper Zhou hastily bowed in salute, ¡°Greetings, Princess.¡±


    White Elder prince, along with the Emperor Taishang, built their empire from the ground up, making a great contribution. After the establishment of Daqi, he was conferred as the Loyal King.


    This was the only non-biological king in the entire Daqi.


    Bai Zhi was the beloved great-granddaughter of the old White prince. At the age of ten, she was bestowed the title of the princess by Emperor Yongan. Over the years, she was given more attention than the unloved princess by Emperor Yongan.


    ¡°Enough chit-chat, bring that ¡®Jade Bamboo¡¯ over for me to see.¡± Bai Zhi finally spoke, her voice as crisp as the ringing of the bell on her hair bun.


    Shopkeeper Zhou quicklyplied and was about to leave, but Bai Zhi stopped him, ¡°You can instruct others to do it, I still have questions for you.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Shopkeeper Zhou did as she said.


    ¡°I heard from Brother Ye that Bailu Town has a remarkable person? Are all those Cold Jelly Tofus made by her?¡± Bai Zhi sat upright in her chair, her beautiful eyes moving up and down Shopkeeper Zhou, with an undertone of coldness in them.


    Shopkeeper Zhou heard her words, his heart thumped, and he subconsciously looked towards Yang Ye.


    The fact that Bai Zhi liked Yang Ye wasn¡¯t a secret. Everyone who should know, knew it; moreover, in order to win Yang Ye¡¯s heart, she, an honorable princess, had even developed excellent cooking skills.


    What does she mean by her question now?


    ¡°Answer honestly,¡± Bai Zhi said with a touch of displeasure.


    Shopkeeper Zhou quickly replied, ¡°In response to the Princess, whether she is remarkable or not, that this little one doesn¡¯t know; but the Cold Jelly Tofu was indeed made by this girl.¡±


    ¡°Is her cooking skill good?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    Upon hearing his answer, Bai Zhi raised her eyebrows slightly, her eyes moving to Yang Ye.


    Yang Ye, one hand on his cheek and another ying idly with the tea cup on the table. Feeling her gaze, he gave she a sideways nce andzily said, ¡°I already told you that the skills of the little country girl are indeed very good.¡±


    At this, Bai Zhi¡¯s gaze again fell on Shopkeeper Zhou, ¡°Is the girl named Qiao Xiaomai? Go and bring the girl here. I, the princess, want to have a cookingpetition with her.¡±


    Upon hearing those words, Yang Ye chuckled lightly, ¡°Is it necessary? Topete with a little country girl.¡±


    ¡°I just want to see the ¡®remarkable person¡¯ in Brother Ye¡¯s mouth.¡± Bai Zhi¡¯s pretty face carried a hint of chill..

 Chapter 218 - 218: This is Not a Discussion, it’s a Notification

    Chapter 218: This is Not a Discussion, it¡¯s a Notification


    Trantor: 549690339


    Upon hearing this, Yang Ye clicked his tongue a few times and then looked at Shopkeeper Zhou, ¡°Go on, fetch Qiao Xiaomai. Let the princess experience something indescribably wonderful.¡±


    Indescribably wonderful.


    Those four words sessfully made Bai Zhi¡¯s face turn a few degrees colder.


    Noticing this, Shopkeeper Zhou spoke up, ¡°Miss Qiao is in the Zuixian Building, she came over today to sell a new dish.¡±


    Although he sympathized with Qiao Xiaomai in his heart, in front of Bai Zhi, he had no choice but to obey.


    ¡°Oh, another new dish? Bring her up quickly.¡± A spark of interest shed in Yang Ye¡¯s eyes as he straightened up.


    Bai Zhi cast him a sidelong nce, a shadow shing across her beautiful eyes.


    ¡°Yes.¡± Shopkeeper Zhou stepped out to find Qiao Xiaomai downstairs.


    Upon hearing the reason, Qiao Xiaomai naturally felt her head spin.


    What was this all about?


    This really was like sitting at home and disaster flying in from the heavens.


    Nheless, no matter how unpleasant, she had to go upstairs. This was the harsh reality of life in this ss-driven society.


    Seeing her reluctant face, Shopkeeper Zhou reassured her, ¡°With Prince Wei here, your personal safety is guaranteed.¡±


    However, upon hearing his words, Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s face showed even more unwillingness.


    Personal safety?


    Was only her personal safety guaranteed?


    What the hell!


    With a stomach full of worries, she carried the dried tofu upstairs.


    Upon entering the private room, she respectfully greeted the two dignitaries.


    Thankfully kneeling was not a custom at the time, otherwise, she would be even more bitter.


    ¡°So, this is your dish?¡± Interrupting Bai Zhi, Yang Ye beckoned Qiao Xiaomai towards him, ¡°Come here and let me have a look.¡±


    He appeared warm and friendly, seemingly forgetting the unpleasantness of Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s subtle refusalst time.


    Qiao Xiaomai approached and ced the bowl of dried tofu in front of him.


    ¡°This is vegetarian meat, it has many uses.¡±


    She had brought in tofu, without any preparation, but Yang Ye trusted her skills and tore off a piece to taste right away, too quickly for Bai Zhi to refuse.


    ¡°The taste is good.¡± After swallowing the tofu, Yang Ye retrieved a handkerchief from his bosom to wipe his hands and then looked at Qiao Xiaomai, ¡°How much are you selling this for?¡±


    ¡°I n to sell the recipe.¡± Qiao Xiaomai answered honestly.


    ¡°Have you already sold it to the Zuixian Building?¡±


    ¡°Not yet.¡±


    ¡°For how many taels of silver?¡±


    ¡°Two hundred.¡±


    ¡°Deal.¡± Yang Ye snapped his fingers.


    Qiao Xiaomai¡±¡­¡±


    Shopkeeper Zhou¡±¡­¡±


    Shopkeeper Zhou wore no expression, but inside he was cringing, wishing he hadn¡¯t haggled before.


    If he had known, he wouldn¡¯t have negotiated the price!


    Qiao Xiaomai, in turn, hesitated and nced at Shopkeeper Zhou.


    ¡°Speak up.¡± Seeing her hesitation, Yang Ye urged her.


    Qiao Xiaomai looked at Shopkeeper Zhou with difficulty, ¡°May 1 ask Shopkeeper Zhou to step out for a moment.¡±


    If she revealed that the dried tofu was made from tofu, which meant unavoidably revealing the process, she wouldn¡¯t want to disclose this in front of Zhou, seeing his penny-pinching earlier.


    ¡°Out you go.¡± Yang Ye immediately waved Zhou away.


    Shopkeeper Zhou¡±¡­¡±


    He stifled aplicated mix of feelings as he bowed and left the room.


    Once he was gone, Qiao Xiaomai said, ¡°Because the vegetarian meat is made from tofu which I already sold the recipe for to the Zuixian Building and Extreme Taste Residence.¡±


    When she sold the tofu recipe, she stated that she wouldn¡¯t use tofu for profit, only for her own consumption. @@novelbin@@


    If she informed Yang Ye now, it would be an infringement of the agreement.


    She could only honestly share her predicament.


    ¡°No matter, go ahead and sell it.¡± Yang Ye said nonchntly.


    Since the tofu recipe had already been offered to Emperor Yong¡¯an by the Zuixian Building, he would just need to inform the pce.


    Upon hearing this, Qiao Xiaomai felt relieved and disclosed the method of making dried tofu to Yang Ye.


    Yang Ye immediately had his attendant give her two hundred taels of silver notes.


    Silver notes ¨C this was the first time Qiao Xiaomai had seen one. She didn¡¯t take the time to inspect it further, tucking both notes carefully into her bosom.


    Bai Zhi watched her movements, her lips curling into a cold, mocking smile, ¡°Your name is Qiao Xiaomai, right?¡±


    Shocked, Qiao Xiaomai quickly agreed.


    ¡°In three days, I¡¯ll have a cooking contest with you.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai¡±¡­¡±


    Blow me down, here ites.


    ¡°But of course for a contest, there has to be a wager. 1 wager three hundred taels of silver and three hundred acres ofnd, you do the same. If I win, your silver andnd are mine. If you win, my silver andnd are yours.. What do you say?¡±

 Chapter 232 - 232 Delicious

    Chapter 232: Delicious


    Trantor: 549690339


    Next is the third dish.


    Qiao Xiaomai prepared Sweet and Sour Pork whilst Bai Zhi cooked a Braised Civet Cat dish.


    The Sweet and Sour Pork was orange-yellow in color, the sauce wrapped around it was as beautiful as crystal.


    Not only was it visually appealing, but its taste was even more extraordinary, sour and sweet, delicious!


    Yang Ye happily finished the few strips of pork in his small te, and his eyes once again nced towards the tes on the stove.


    What a pity, there was no more left.


    With a hint of regret, he began to taste Bai Zhi¡¯s Civet Cat dish.


    Well, it was tender, fragrant and the sauce was thick and glossy, very delicious.


    However, he was already tired of this dish,pared to the Sweet and Sour Pork that he had never tasted before, it fell short no matter how delicious it was.


    Upon finishing the Civet Cat dish, the fourth dish was served.


    Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s Spicy Cucumber was served.


    Yang Ye raised an eyebrow, picked up one and put it into his mouth.


    Cucumber, it was just toomon, he wasn¡¯t overly interested.


    ¡°Eh?¡± After chewing a few times, his eyes widened slightly, he then picked another piece and put it into his mouth, he even brought the te closer to his eyes for careful observation.


    He thought the spicy sauce was Cornelian Sauce, but when he tasted it, he realized it wasn¡¯t.


    It was spicy, yes, but it had a different vor from Cornelian, more importantly, it didn¡¯t have the slightest bitterness.


    Only a rich fragrance.


    He was quite surprised, brought it slightly closer to his nose, and then smelled it a few times, thereafter, it confirmed his judgement.


    Impressive, this rustic vige girl really knows how to surprise him.


    Bai Zhi¡¯s dish was abalone.


    Cucumber versus abalone, it was a fierceparison.


    Yang Ye clicked his tongue, he picked one up and ate it, then wiped his hands, his gaze again fell on Qiao Xiaomai.


    After tasting the four dishes, the soup was served.


    It was a Pig¡¯s Trotters and Soybean soup. After eating so much meat, having Pig¡¯s Trotters next should be somewhat greasy, yet in reality, it wasn¡¯t.


    The soup, soybeans and Pig¡¯s Trotters were all fragrant, one small bowl was simply not enough.


    Reluctantly putting down the bowl, the judges began tasting the Shark Fin Soup.


    Oh, it was very delicious.


    The fact that a noble mistress possessed this level of culinary skill was truly admirable and worthmendation.


    Once the soup was finished, it was time for thest course, the dessert.


    The headmaster looked at Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s direction with a hint of reluctance. Despite having eaten quite a number of dishes earlier, each portion was too small, the more he ate the hungrier he became!


    He stroked his beard and looked at the cake in the te before him.


    The name was simple, but it smelled very good. He picked up a piece with chopsticks and put it into his mouth.


    Soft.


    Fragrant.


    Sweet.


    Unexpectedly delicious, and perfectly suited for an elder like him. Fragrant and soft, amazing!


    Yang Ye also subtly nodded, yes, it was suitable for his great grandfather. He was certain he had to have Qiao Xiaomai share the recipeter.


    Of course, he would providepensation.


    As he thought this, he finished the cake in three bites and began to taste Bai Zhi¡¯s Pine Nut Lily Crisp.


    It resembled a lily flower, very beautiful, and it tasted fragrant and crispy, quite delicious. A few months apart, and Bai Zhi¡¯s skills had undoubtedly improved.


    epting a handkerchief handed over by a maid, he wiped his hands and the corners of his mouth, then looked towards the audience.


    Only the ten judges were seated, everyone else was standing. There were thousands of standing people, those in the front could smell the fragrance and it was clear they were desperately longing, their expressions full of difort.


    Constantly smelling the various fragrances, yet unable to taste a bite was truly torture!


    Those at the back could only see the people and couldn¡¯t smell the fragrance, however, these people were also intently watching the stage. Even though there were no delicacies, there were beauties.. Moreover, thepetition between the princess and the vige girl was interesting!

 Chapter 237 - 237 The Importance of Mastering a Craft

    Chapter 237: The Importance of Mastering a Craft


    Trantor: 549690339


    When a person shows off only a limited amount of attention-grabbing skills, they be easy prey to avarice.


    Yet when someone brings forth an abundant supply of powerful tools and talents, that greed is held in check as those around choose to coexist in a friendly manner.


    They might even admire and honor them.


    Ingenuity and talent were coveted like precious assets inter generations.


    Those with true skill were sought after relentlessly.


    The same goes for culinary prowess.


    When she¡¯d only revealed two of her recipes that had already been sold, Yang Ye expressed the intent of bringing her back to Wang Residence to serve as a kitchen maid.


    His attitude then was carefree and arrogant.


    Now, upon witnessing her uniqueness and high-skilled craftsmanship, Yang Ye¡¯s demeanor changed.


    He started to regard her with respect.


    When he took a seat, so could she.


    Yang Ye didn¡¯t care when she stood up to Bai Zhi¡¯s arrogance today.


    It was clear, she had won her gamble.


    Her heart, that had been in her throat, could now safely descend.


    With this in mind, she spoke up, ¡°1 dare not defy Your Highness¡¯smand. It¡¯s just the red oil¡­¡±


    ¡°What about it?¡± Upon seeing her pause, Yang Ye hurriedly questioned.


    ¡°The red oil isn¡¯t from the cornelian cherries. It¡¯s from a seasoning 1 discovered in the mountains. I only found a handful of nts, and I¡¯ve already used it all up,¡± a look of difficulty appeared on Xiaomai¡¯s face.


    If there were chili peppers dangling around here, her significance and status could have been elevated a little further.


    ¡°You discovered it in the mountains?¡± Yang Ye looked quite surprised.


    ¡°Yes.¡± Xiaomai said, her face patiently maintaining a lie, as she described how she¡¯d found the chili peppers.


    Tong Sang couldn¡¯t help curling his lip.


    However, Xiaomai¡¯s calm and collected demeanor while spinning a lie to a dignitary was rather charming.


    ¡°I see.¡± Yang Ye muttered, followed by a sigh of regret.


    Such a good thing and he would have to wait several months to see it again?


    Chili peppers, so purely piquant without a trace of bitterness, such a culinary treasure.


    If what Xiaomai said was true, chili peppers would soon rece cornelian cherries and be even more beloved among people.


    With a few sighs in his heart, he asked again, ¡°What about the cake?¡±


    ¡°I can make another one right now,¡± Xiaomai replied.


    ¡°Later, let¡¯s have lunch first,¡± Yang Ye waved his hand dismissively. There were several other matters he wanted to discuss with Xiaomai.


    For instance, the sweet and sour pork with its fresh cooking method and exceptional taste.


    And the refreshingly unique texture hiding beneath the braised pork.


    Even after polishing off a dozen pieces of the greasy pork, he surprisingly yearned for anotherrge tter. Incredible!


    Not just the braised pork, the pickled cabbage, fish, and pig¡¯s feet soup evoked simr feelings.


    If it was just a single dish, this could be considered a fluke.


    However, since it was the case for multiple dishes, it surely warranted further investigation.


    At this thought, his gazended on Xiaomai.


    He came to Bailu Town for two reasons. One was to pay a visit to the dean of Gu Academy, the other was to meet the girl who invented the cold jelly tofu delicacy.


    And the reality proved to him that he didn¡¯t make this trip in vain.


    In this remote and poor mountain town, he had discovered a bright and dazzling sparkle.


    He had stumbled upon a stunning gem.


    Tong Sang sat quietly in a corner, observing Yang Ye¡¯s shifting demeanor without fuss.


    His handsome face maintained aposed expression.


    No ripple of emotions danced in his eyes.


    Xiaomai deserved the best.


    At present, Yang Ye seemed to be the best choice.


    Right now, Yang Ye might not be considering anything romantic, but given Xiaomai¡¯s charm, he¡¯d likely be thinking along those lines soon.


    Whenpared to him, who was insidiously plotting a rebellion, any sensible person would know how to choose..

 Chapter 221 - 221: Little Lover

    Chapter 221: Little Lover


    Trantor: 549690339


    One moment she was worried about being crippled, the next, she found herself in a warm embrace.


    Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s heart was pounding erratically, the two starkly different voices resonating, pulling back her terrified consciousness.


    One voice was Tong Sang¡¯s, filled with extraordinary concern.


    The other was Bai Zhi¡¯s, filled with intense ill will.


    She took a deep breath and looked at Bai Zhi.


    Bai Zhi was standing by the broken window, and smiled with curved red lips as she saw her look over, lightly leaping down.


    The wind tussled her white clothes and dark hair, she looked like a fairy falling into dust, herportment unspeakably elegant and captivating.


    Tong Sang saw Bai Zhi at that moment too. He let go of Qiao Xiaomai, took a small step forward, protecting her behind him.


    He naturally knew of the city¡¯s mistress¡¯s reputation, too.


    Although he didn¡¯t know why Qiao Xiaomai had provoked her, given the current situation, he had to stand up.


    ¡°Oh, this handsomed is quite good-looking.¡± Bai Zhi lightlynded on the street, her hands behind her back, scrutinizing Tong Sang up and down with a picky gaze, then looked towards Qiao Xiaomai behind Tong Sang.


    ¡°Since you have such a handsome beau, why would you dare to seduce Brother Ye?¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai,¡±¡­¡±


    Damn, even if she had a hundred mouths she wouldn¡¯t be able to clear her name.


    What the hell did she seduce!


    ¡°What are you talking nonsense.¡± At this time, Yang Ye also jumped down, his attire elegant, his appearance handsome, attracting more gazes than Bai Zhi. ¡°Are you iming she didn¡¯t seduce you?¡± Bai Zhi stared at him, her exquisite chin slightly raised. She pointed at Qiao Xiaomai with her clean and slender fingers, her face full of contempt, ¡°Wouldn¡¯t you be praising her, if she hadn¡¯t seduced you?


    Yang Ye was speechless.


    Earlier he had suspected that Qiao Xiaomai was employing some form of maniption, but hearing it from Bai Zhi¡¯s mouth, it sounded peculiar.


    ¡°I praised her because she is an expert in cooking. Weren¡¯t you going topete with her in cooking? You almost killed her just now. What¡¯s the meaning of this?¡±


    ¡°Hmph, 1 just wanted to show you how I can take care of her!¡±


    Yang Ye frowned, impatiently retorting ¡°Stop beating around the bush, let¡¯s have the cooking contest! If you win, she¡¯ll pay three hundred taels of silver and three hundred acres ofnd. If she wins, you¡¯ll give her three hundred taels of silver and three hundred acres ofnd, and immediately return to the Capital City.¡±


    Even he, spoiled as one of the four mighty men of Daqi, his temperament certainly wasn¡¯t good. If it didn¡¯t ur to him that Bai Zhi was like a half-sister to him, he would have blown his top much earlier.


    Upon hearing this, Bai Zhi bit her lip, ¡°Let¡¯spete then!¡±


    She¡¯s just a small vige girl!


    After she wins in cooking, she will crush this vige girl!


    ¡°Fine, thepetition will be held at Bailu Academy in three days.¡± Yang Ye lifted his arm, pointing in the direction of the academy, ¡°You, go back to the academy now. Almostmitting murder in public, go reflect on your actions.¡±


    Murder in public.


    These four words made Bai Zhi pale.


    Although she was arrogant, she hadn¡¯t reached the point of casually killing people.


    Moreover, looking at Yang Ye¡¯s expression, it seemed he had implications in his words.


    She cast a resentful look at Qiao Xiaomai.


    Qiao Xiaomai stood behind Tong Sang, his tall figure shielding her almost entirely. @@novelbin@@


    ¡°Hmph, you wait, little vige girl!¡± Leaving these words, she leapt up, heading toward the academy with nimble footsteps.


    She¡¯ll hold back for now!


    After winning, she¡¯ll deal with this vige girl!


    Once Bai Zhi left, only then did Yang Ye turn his gaze to look at Qiao Xiaomai, ¡°Miss Xiao, are you okay?¡±


    As a person who loved gourmet food, he always cared about those who were good at cooking, especially if they were filled with creative and novel ideas.


    ¡°I¡¯m fine.¡± Qiao Xiaomai finally spoke, her voice sounding indifferent.


    ¡°That¡¯s good.¡± Yang Ye let out a sigh of relief, casually ncing at Tong Sang.


    He couldn¡¯t help it, Tong Sang was standing in front of Qiao Xiaomai, his protective posture very obvious, he raised an eyebrow, ¡°Oh, so he really is your beau?¡±

 Chapter 239: Cannot Be Ignored

    Chapter 239: Cannot Be Ignored


    Trantor: 549690339


    Qiao Xiaomai looked at his handsome profile, then dropped her gaze.


    He said it was fine.


    But he had also said that the treasure could not be hidden much longer; if Yang Ye really brought people over, and if they discovered it¡­


    What would ensue would be a fierce and bloody scramble.


    But what could she say?


    He had rescued her unexpectedly that day.


    Had epted her invitation to protect her today.


    Not only protected her safety, but also helped her to disguise, and fiercely pped Bai Zhi¡¯s face.


    How should she repay such a favour¡­


    She pondered the whole journey but couldn¡¯te up with anything.


    When they reached the entrance of the vige, Tong Sang asked the coachman to stop. He jumped off the carriage, stood up, and looked at Qiao Xiaomai. A faint smile could be seen on his handsome face, ¡°Miss Qiao, I am going up the mountain for a walk, I¡¯ll take my leave first.¡±


    People had to smile, even if their heart was bitter like swallowing caltrop, they had to put on a happy face in front of the girl they love.


    Qiao Xiaomai looked back at him, returning his smile, ¡°Thank you for today, Brother Tong San.¡±


    ¡°No need to be polite.¡± There was a bit more of a smile on Tong Sang¡¯s handsome face, ¡°Go home, I¡¯m leaving.¡±


    After saying that, he stepped forward into the vige and headed west.


    In fact, he wanted to tell her toe to him if she needed anything in the future.


    He would be d to help her.


    But given his identity, he hoped that she would always be safe and never need his help again.


    He pressed his lips tightly, took a deep breath, and rubbed his chest with his hand.


    Such a feeling, how painful indeed.


    Ahead, Qiao Xiaomai watched Tong Sang leave, biting her lip so hard she almost broke the skin.


    When she got home and thanked the coachman, she knocked on the gate of the courtyard.


    The voice of Qiao Dami sounded, ¡°Are you back? Is it sister?¡±


    She hummed in reply, raising her hand to rub her face.


    She had to smile; she couldn¡¯t let this innocent father and son notice anything strange.


    She had won the contest; she had tough happily.


    So when Qiao Dami opened the gate, she bent over to hug him, and with a joyfulugh, she went into the courtyard and shared her joy of winning with the father and son.


    A banknote, a deed.


    They were truly wonderful things.


    Qiao Dami cheered, smiling from ear to ear.


    Qiao Changshun was also happy, his joy causing the hand holding the banknote and the deed to tremble slightly.


    This was really a fortune falling from the sky!


    ¡°Okay, dad, I¡¯m going in to change.¡± said Qiao Xiaomai.


    She had to remove her makeup too; after a long day of troubles, not only her body was tired, but also her mind.


    ¡°Rest a while, rest a while.¡± Qiao Changshun nodded understandingly and pushed the banknote and deed into Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s hand, ¡°Never mind the rest, just go and rest.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai took the banknote and deed, hummed in agreement, then went to her room.


    She removed her makeup and changed her clothes, then reallyy down on the bed.


    Closing her eyes, she recalled the events of the past few days one by one.


    She was inexplicably pulled by Shopkeeper He to cook for Yang Ye.


    She rejected Yang Ye, with worries in her heart.


    Tong Sang came to confess to her, she rejected.


    Then she severed ties with the Sun family, and Sun Junyan was beaten.


    After that, she met Tong Sang on the mountain by chance, exchanged secrets, and learned about the ticking time bomb hidden at home.


    Her anxiety got worse.


    Then the Sun family and Qiao Meipan tried to nder her, she went to the town to sell dried tofu and met Bai Zhi.


    She nearly fell from the second floor.


    And was saved by Tong Sang.


    Remembering that moment, she took a long breath, finally understanding the true meaning of the phrase ¡®a life-saving grace¡¯.


    When the whole world was shrouded in terror, Tong Sang tore away the darkness like a ray of light, sweeping away all fears.


    He saved her, and her entire world.


    The feeling of reliability he gave her was¡­


    Impossible to ignore.


    Truly impossible to ignore..

 Chapter 223 - 223: She knew the feeling of his embrace

    Chapter 223: She knew the feeling of his embrace


    Trantor: 549690339


    Tong Tiehu heard this and nced at Tong Sang, his eyes that usually sparkled with vitality were somewhat cloudy.


    Carrying out his father¡¯s wish to rebel had left him empty for a lifetime, so how could he disregard Tong Sang¡¯s actions.


    With a private sigh, he said, ¡°Let¡¯s go, to the shop.¡±


    Tong Sang raised his whip, driving the ox cart towards his store.


    Qiao Xiaomai entered the Zuixian Building, greeted the shopkeeper Zhou who was crying internally, and then left with Qiao Changshun and Qiao Dami.


    Originally, she had nned to dine at Zuixian Building. However, after the recentmotion, and the earlier incident, Qiao Xiaomai felt both physically and mentally exhausted.


    The mncholy feeling she had when she first arrived was returning.


    She was a rich spoilt child who had defeated her gold-digging stepmother and negligent father, nning to enjoy a pleasant life, but ended up in this lousy ce after a car ident.


    Enduring poverty.


    Enduring some impressive people.


    Enduring the aristocracy.


    Enduring irregr menstrual cycles.


    She was utterly worn out.


    ¡°Xiaomai, what happened just now?¡± Qiao Changshun asked.


    He and Qiao Dami were in the backyard just now, only hearing themotion in front but not knowing the exact circumstances.


    ¡°A crazy woman made a scene,¡± Qiao Xiaomai gave a perfunctory reply, then took a deep breath and said, ¡°Let¡¯s go to Jiwei residence.¡±


    Eating.


    As a foodie, she naturally had to feast when facing such a suffocating situation. @@novelbin@@


    So, the family of three went to Jiwei residence. Qiao Xiaomai ordered a second-floor private room, ordered all the signature dishes, filling the table. The three of them feasted until they were content.


    When she was almost full, Qiao Xiaomai sipped on the sweet Crabapple and Treme soup, the gloomy mood that was holed up in her heart gradually dissipated.


    She began to think about the incident just now and the cook-off in three days.


    Earlier, Bai Zhi pushed her off the second floor and used her of seducing Yang Ye, constantly calling her a rustic bumpkin.


    Alright.


    She would remember this.


    Four dishes, one soup, one appetizer.


    Jiwei residence and Zuixian Building represented the top culinary skills in this area. She had tasted the signature dishes of both ces. She might lose when it came to knife skills and refinement, but when it came to freshness and taste, she was confident she would win.


    With a strategy forming in her heart, she leisurely finished the sweet soup in her small bowl, called over a waiter, and had the leftover dishes packed.


    This table of food cost tens of taels of silver.


    But when it came time to pay, Shopkeeper He cheerfully told her that considering their previous cooperation, they could offer a fifty percent discount on the meal.


    Qiao Xiaomai raised an eyebrow, recalling when Tong Sang had saved her earlier.


    Falling from the second floor wasn¡¯t too high, so the time was in fact very short.


    In that instant, she didn¡¯t think of anything else. She was worried that she would be crippled, she was too overwhelmed with fear to even harbor resentment.


    Only fear itself.


    Just as she was bing desperate, she fell into a pair of arms.


    Qiao Dami once asked her what it feels like to be embraced by Tong Sang, but she hadn¡¯t felt anything back then.


    Even though Tong Sang did help her when she desperately needed it at that time, she felt more awkward and ufortable then.


    This awkwardness and difort was too weak in the face of fear.


    Therefore, this time, when fear enveloped her, leading to panic and despair, this embrace came at just the right time.


    And it left a profound impression.


    She was shocked then, but now thinking back on it, she remembered every detail.


    Including the feeling of the embrace.


    Seems¡­


    Exactly like Qiao Dami said, it wasfortable and sturdy.


    It felt just like when she suddenly got this superpower and beat up her ex-boyfriend and hooligans.


    Comfortable and substantial.


    She clicked her tongue.


    She gave her head a little shake to cast out these thoughts, ¡°No, let¡¯s use the original price.¡±


    What kind of previous cooperation? It¡¯s probably a favor from Tong Sang.


    She kept iming that she wanted to keep her distance from people but couldn¡¯t bear to part with the money. She definitely wouldn¡¯t do it..

 Chapter 224 - 224 Preparation

    Chapter 224: Preparation


    Trantor: 549690339


    After leaving Pris, the family of three got onto the horse carriage.


    The look on Qiao Changshun¡¯s was of pure agony. A mere meal cost them over forty taels of silver, oh my god!


    Even selling off his tofu recipe didn¡¯t justify such extravagance!


    Qiao Xiaomai, who didn¡¯t have a clue about the cost of the meal, had been the one to order; and seeing how unwell she looked, Changshun didn¡¯t bother asking the details.


    If he knew it was going to be this expensive, he would¡¯ve stopped her for sure!


    Just as his heart was bleeding over the expense, Qiao Xiaomai suddenly spoke, ¡°Let¡¯s go to Daughter¡¯s Pavilion.¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡± Qiao Changshun was taken aback, wondering if he had heard it wrong.


    ¡°I said, let¡¯s go to Daughter¡¯s Pavilion,¡± Qiao Xiaomai repeated.


    ¡°All, okay.¡± Qiao Changshun snapped back to reality, flicked the reins, and steered the donkey cart towards Daughter¡¯s Pavilion.


    Daughter¡¯s Pavilion was a store in Bailu Town that specialized in makeup and jewelry. Zhuang Luhe and Qiao Xiaomai had almost never used these things, hence his initial surprise.


    ¡°Buy a lot, you¡¯re also a young woman now,¡± Qiao Changshun soon got over his pain and began encouraging Xiaomai to spend more silver.


    He was still nning on catching the wild card that was Tong Sang.


    Xiaomai, being quite attractive, would no doubt garner more attention after a bit of a makeover!


    Upon hearing this, Xiaomai just hummed nomittally.


    At Daughter¡¯s Pavilion, she randomly bought a box of rouge and then started picking jewelry.


    After seriously considering for a while, she bought a wooden hairpin.


    The hairpin was fairlymon, with its entire body being ck. The head of the hairpin was cloud-shaped and had a red silk flower iid on it, below which hung a red pearl.


    Red and ck, a ssicbination.


    But that wasn¡¯t why Xiaomai chose it. The reason Xiaomai chose it was because it was: cheap. @@novelbin@@


    She was more interested in a tassel made of white jade, but that cost an outrageous ten taels of silver, so she held back.


    With no other options, she had to settle for the wooden hairpin: eight hundred coins.


    At such a low price, the red ¡°pearl¡± was obviously fake, but that didn¡¯t matter as long as it looked nice.


    After paying, they left Daughter¡¯s Pavilion and Xiaomai moved on to Xiangji Fabric Shop.


    She chose a piece of fabric and gave a slew of instructions to the Embroidery Lady at the shop, and by the time they left, she was ten taels lighter.


    Qiao Changshun watched with bottled-up protest. Spending ten taels on a piece of clothing like that could¡¯ve bought many more pots of rouge and cheaper fabric.


    ¡°Okay, let¡¯s go home,¡± Xiaomai said, having finished her errands and ready to head back home.


    ¡°Xiaomai¡­ about your spending¡­¡± unable to hold it back any longer, Qiao Changshun decided to exin the principle behind it to Xiaomai.


    Qiao Xiaomai interrupted him, ¡°In three days, I¡¯m going to take part in a cookingpetition. With so many people watching, 1 need to look my best.¡± ¡°A cookingpetition? With whom?¡± Qiao Changshun asked, startled.


    ¡°Another girl who is quite good at cooking. There¡¯s a cash prize for the winner,¡± Xiaomai said, keeping the details to a minimum.


    If she were to disclose the full story, Qiao Changshun would hardly sleep these few days.


    ¡°There¡¯s a cash prize? Then you should do your best.¡± Qiao Changshun¡¯s attitude instantly changed.


    She must be expecting big money from thepetition to spend so much on clothes!


    Thinking along those lines, he quickly asked, ¡°Do you want to buy some ingredients for practice?¡±


    ¡°No need, let¡¯s go home first,¡± she replied.


    Of course she would prepare something, but she didn¡¯t need to buy anything; she had everything in her space.


    Bai Zhi, ha, looking down upon her as if she was the dirt under her feet.


    She would use her actions to p Bai Zhi¡¯s arrogant face, making it swell like a steamed bun.


    Waiting for that was amusing indeed..

 Chapter 242: 242: The Start of Wheat Harvesting

    Chapter 242: 242: The Start of Wheat Harvesting<div>


    Trantor: 549690339


    Now, her rtionship with Yang Ye could be described as good.


    If Yang Ye really discovered the treasure buried in her home, he presumably wouldn¡¯t harm her.<div>


    As for Tong Sang¡­


    With his skills, leaving safely would be no problem.


    So, from this perspective, she didn¡¯t need to be in such a hurry to buy a courtyard in town.


    The earlier urgency was due to Tong Sang¡¯s im that various forces had traced their way here, but for now, it was clear that only Yang Ye hade.


    Yang Ye might not be the best-tempered person, but he was certainly approachable.


    Hmm¡­


    Yeah.


    So, perhaps buying the courtyard could wait for now.


    With that in mind, Qiao Xiaomai set off to stroll around town.


    She explored Bailu Town for the better part of an hour, checking out all the street-facing shops and courtyards.


    Of course, she purposefully avoided the vinegar shop owed by the Tong Family. Afterwards, she headed to the Vegetable Market to buy some meat and a couple of fish. By then it was already noon, so she grabbed a few steamed buns to munch on her way back to Anping Vige.<div>


    When she returned home, it was already past mealtime.


    Expecting Qiao Changshun and Qiao Dami to have eaten already, she was surprised to see that they were still sitting at the entrance of the house, waiting for her to have dinner.


    Looking at their familiar and trusting faces, one old and one young, she licked her lips, feeling a warm rush in her heart.


    Alright, although Qiao Changshun might be naive and foolish, he cared for her as his daughter.


    And, Qiao Dami trusted her wholeheartedly.


    Having such a family wasn¡¯t too bad.


    Her passing irritationpletely evaporated.


    She spent the next two days in peace. As the weather gradually heated up, some families began to harvest their wheat.


    In her fields, Qiao Xiaomai also grew wheat, some of which was now ripe and ready for harvest.


    Harvesting wheat was a big deal for a farming family.


    Early in the morning, Qiao Changshun went to find Tong Tiehu, asking him to spread the word in the vige forborers to help with the harvest.<div>


    Some families¡¯ wheat was still unripe, so they had spare time to help at his farm.


    Tong Tiehu agreed readily. At lunch, he rang the bell at the vige¡¯s threshing floor to announce the job.


    Seven wen a day, meals not included.


    This was the rate that the Tong family had paid in the past. In the vige, the pay rate was much lower than in the town.


    It couldn¡¯t be helped, those who hiredborers in town were either business owners or schrs¡¯ families, who could afford to pay more.


    In the vige, everyone farmed for a living and were less willing to part with their money.


    After the announcement, people started to trickle in.


    It was only then that everyone realized just how muchnd the Qiao family owned.


    But while they were surprised, nobody said anything. After all, Qiao Xiaomai had earned hernd through her cooking skills, which was something to be admired rather than envied.


    Harvesting wheat is aborious task. Without the modern machinery of future generations, everything relied on humanbor.


    People bent over with their sickles, cutting the wheat stalk by stalk.<div>


    Others used long spades. They attached a small spade head to a long wooden pole, allowing them to stand while shoveling the wheat, which was less strenuous than bending down with a sickle.


    On the first day, more than twenty people came, and they managed to cut all of the ripe wheat.


    The next day, they cleared thend to make a threshing floor.


    Once the threshing floor was set up, they brought over all the wheat. They tied a t,rge stone to a donkey and had it trundle over the wheat, which was a faster method of threshing grains than by hand.


    Qiao Xiaomai stood at the edge of the threshing floor, watching everyone busily milling about. She couldn¡¯t help but be moved.


    This was her first time witnessing the hardships of a farmer¡¯s life. Farming was truly not an easy job..

 Chapter 243: 243: Egg Drop Soup

    Chapter 243: 243: Egg Drop Soup<div>


    Trantor: 549690339


    Observing the bustling activity on the threshing floor, Qiao Xiaomai gave a few instructions to Qiao Changshun before turning back towards the vige.


    She now had 2700 taels worth of banknotes in her possession, giving her increased confidence, and she was ready to be a generousndowner.<div>


    For instance, making a pot of egg drop soup for theborers.


    She was never stingy, especially when it came to food, she was always willing to share.


    Even with others, as long as they made herfortable, she would never be stingy.


    Back home, she took out eggs and the fresh vegetables that Qiao Changshun harvested and cooked arge pot of egg drop soup with the water from her storage space.


    When the soup was ready, Qiao Changshun returned with the donkey cart.


    The two of them lifted the pot onto the cart and headed for the threshing floor.


    At this time, the weather was warm, and it was easy to work up a sweat. Hence, the vigers all brought pottery jars and bowls with them to the fields to hold water to quench their thirst.


    Qiao Xiaomai only needed to prepare the egg drop soup, nothing else.


    Arge pot of egg drop soup, one bowl per person, was distributed.


    It was the first time the group tasted Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s cooking. With one sip of the soup, their eyes immediately lit up.


    Delicious!<div>


    They had never tasted such delicious soup!


    Du Qing¡¯ai was among them. She held up her bowl and gave Qiao Xiaomai a thumbs up, ¡°Your cooking skills are amazing!¡±


    No wonder she was able to earn so many fields with her skills.


    ¡°As long as it¡¯s delicious, 1¡¯11 bring more in the afternoon,¡± said Qiao Xiaomai with a smile.


    ¡°No need, no need, a taste is enough,¡± Du Qing¡¯ai said quickly, shaking her head.


    The egg drop soup Xiaomai made was substantial, packed full with eggs, the vegetables were mere garnish.


    Just this one pot of soup must have required dozens of eggs. That was quite extravagant.


    ¡°It¡¯s fine, everyone came to help, and it¡¯s tough work,¡± she said.


    She had been observing these people since yesterday and no one was cking off. They all gave their best effort.


    If these people were sincere with her, she would be sincere with them.


    ¡°Oh, she¡¯s got such a good heart!¡± Du Qing¡¯ai said, patting her thigh.<div>


    Qiao Xiaomai simply smiled softly without saying a word.


    ¡°By the way, do you still have any bean sprouts? The ones you gave to Xiaomeist time were really tasty,¡± Du Qing¡¯ai added.


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°Then 1¡¯11e by your ce to buy some after work,¡± Du Qing¡¯ai said.


    Qiao Xiaomai agreed.


    By noon, everyone working returned to the vige in groups, and Du Qing¡¯ai went to Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s house and bought two jin of bean sprouts.


    Qiao Xiaomai had lowered the price of the bean sprouts: two jin for one wen.


    Two jin of bean sprouts was a lot, and for just one wen, they had bought a decent quantity of delicious vegetables. It was a very cost-effective deal.


    Du Qing¡¯ai took the bean sprouts home and started promoting them to her neighbors.


    By the afternoon, back on the threshing floor, she got to promoting them to the others.


    The crowd was interested in the way she described it, Du Qing¡¯ai came up with an idea for Qiao Xiaomai. Since she was making egg drop soup for the afternoon, why not rece the morning¡¯s vegetables with bean sprouts?<div>


    Once everyone tasted how delicious the bean sprouts were, they would naturally be willing to pay for them.


    It was a good idea. In the afternoon, Qiao Xiaomai made arge pot of bean sprout egg drop soup.


    After tasting the bean sprouts, almost everyone bought two jin of them to take home when Qiao Xiaomai distributed the day¡¯s wages. Soon, all the bean sprouts in Xiaomai¡¯s house were sold out.


    These people spread the word about the bean sprouts to others when they got home. In just two days, news of bean sprouts spread throughout Anping Vige.


    Everyone got to know this new, cheap, and tasty dish.


    Qiao Xiaomai had always wanted to make a name for herself in the vige with her bean sprouts, now that goal was finally achieved..

 Chapter 227 - 227 - A Ball of Fire

    Chapter 227: ¨C A Ball of Fire


    Trantor: 549690339


    The schrs and masters of Bailu Academy were present, along with the head chefs and two shopkeepers from Jiwei Residence and Zuixian Building.


    After hearing about Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s current situation from Yang Ye, Bai Zhi became even more resentful.


    Was it eptable for a country girl who came up with two recipes to enjoy recognition in front of the Emperor?


    Wasn¡¯t this childishly ridiculous?


    Many dedicated officials who served Daqi until their death didn¡¯t have such honor!


    Why should Qiao Xiaomai, a mere country girl, earn this?!


    She was determined to trample Qiao Xiaomai into dust, to prove that Emperor Yongan had made a mistake!


    Thus, she announced thepetition, intending to make a big deal out of it.


    As a princess, she invited everyone from the Academy to watch thepetition, and of course, people had to give her face.


    Hence, everyone was present.


    Normally, the Martial Arts Training Ground was used for students¡¯ martial arts and horse riding training. asionally, it was also used for meetings, and therefore, there was a half-meter-high stage on one side.


    On the stage, there were two cooking stations, with pots and pans disyed on them.


    On both sides of the stage, some vegetables and meats wereid out.


    Though Yang Ye had mentioned that they needed to bring their own ingredients, he had still prepared some items.


    Bai Zhi had already arrived. She had specially dressed up for the day, intending to overshadow Qiao Xiaomai.


    At that moment, she was wearing her signature white dress, sitting on a chair at the edge of the Martial Arts Training Ground, with two maids ¨C her kitchen helpers ¨C standing behind her.


    Yang Ye stood by her side, chatting, ¡°Remember, the stakes are three hundred taels of silver and three hundred taels ofnd. As Bailu Town is densely popted, it¡¯s not easy to getnd.¡±


    Bai Zhi¡¯s eyes sparkled with anger, his words clearly implied that he thought she would lose.


    ¡°Also, if you lose, you must go back to Capital City. You¡¯re not allowed toe here again.¡± Yang Ye emphasized.


    These words were like pouring oil on the fire for Bai Zhi.


    She took a deep breath, striving to keep her faceposed. In front of Yang Ye, she endured.


    ¡°You should go to the panel of judges now. They are all seated.¡± She managed to squeeze these words through gritted teeth.


    To ensure thepetition¡¯s fairness and impartiality, Yang Ye had arranged for ten judges.


    Now, they were all seated under the stage.


    ¡°Why hasn¡¯t Qiao Xiaomai arrived?¡± Hearing this, Yang Ye looked towards the pathway next to the Martial Arts Training Ground. Seeing the carriage he had sent, a smile surfaced on his handsome face. ¡°Oh, she¡¯s here.¡±


    Bai Zhi nced over upon hearing this.


    She saw Tong Sang jump down from the carriage and snorted, ¡°Her little lover also came with her.¡±


    She emphasized the words ¡®little lover¡¯. Yang Ye seemed to not hear it and casually hummed in agreement, his eyes still fixed on the carriage.


    The next moment, a fiery light reflected in his dark pupils.


    The sudden intense me made his eyes twitch uncontrobly, and he instinctively widened them.


    ¡°Is that¡­¡±


    He murmured in disbelief.


    The transformation was too dramatic, too great.


    He had seen Qiao Xiaomai twice before. Back then, she was dressed in ugly coarse clothes, with her eyes cast down and her head low, looking like a timid novice.


    But now, she waspletely different! @@novelbin@@


    Her facial features were the same, but her entire face seemed to havee alive. It was vibrant and radiant, so enchanting that one couldn¡¯t take their eyes off her.


    ¡®Reborn from the ashes.¡¯ Surprisingly, these words appeared in his mind.


    She was stunning!


    Bai Zhi also noticed Qiao Xiaomai. Her pupils contracted, and her facial expression became stiff.


    How, how is it possible!


    How could the gray mouse always hiding in the gutters be a bright, dazzling me!

 Chapter 245: 245: The Young Man Under The Night Sky

    Chapter 245: 245: The Young Man Under The Night Sky<div>


    Trantor: 549690339


    The weather was hot, and the iron gate of the Tong Family was left open.


    Sitting on the doorstep facing the gate, Tong Sang noticed Qiao Xiaomai as she appeared.<div>


    ¡°Miss Qiao?¡± A look of surprise shed across his handsome face. He quickly put down his bowl and chopsticks and rose to his feet, making his way towards her.


    Upon seeing her, Tong Tiehu waved and said, ¡°Has Xiaomai had her meal yet?¡±


    The others, Tong Xingda, Zhang Family, Tong Eng, Zhu Hongyun, Qian Family, continued to eat as if they had not noticed Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s arrival.


    ¡°I have eaten.¡± Qiao Xiaomai replied with a smile and stepped into the Courtyard.


    She looked at Tong Sang approaching her and couldn¡¯t help but purse her lips.


    Even though it waste in the evening, she could still clearly see the tenderness that filled his gentle gaze. His face was handsome, and his figure was tall and slender.


    A seventeen-year-old in the modern world would merely be a high school student.


    But the Tong Sang in front of her didn¡¯t have the slightest bit of childishness. Apart from confessing his feelings, he was always stable and reliable.


    Stable, dependable.


    What valuable qualities for a man to possess.


    It was the first time she had seen him since their separation half a month ago.<div>


    With a faint smile on her face, she handed the basket in her hand to Tong Sang, ¡°Brother Sang, 1 came to ask about Grandfather Tong¡¯s birthday banquet. You said I was going to cook the feast, remember?¡±


    Tong Sang took the basket with a sh of surprise on his handsome face.


    Given Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s attitude towards him, he thought she would not be willing. So, he had already arranged with Shopkeeper He for the master chef from Jiwei Residence toe and cook the day after tomorrow.


    Unexpectedly, Qiao Xiaomai hade to ask about it herself¡­


    She regarded him as a dangerous creature, didn¡¯t she?


    Why¡­


    Qiao Xiaomai couldprehend the surprise on Tong Sang¡¯s handsome face. She rubbed her nose and said, ¡°A promise is a promise.¡±


    ¡°About that, I was nning to send Sang to talk to youter.¡± Tong Tiehu stood up, walking towards Qiao Xiaomai. ¡°Tomorrow, you and Sang can go to town to buy ingredients. Xiaomai, well entrust you with this.¡±


    Only he and Tong Sang knew about the arrangement with Shopkeeper He, and now he acted as if nothing had happened. Neither the Tong Family nor Qiao Xiaomai suspected anything.


    Upon hearing this, Qiao Xiaomai nodded her head and said, ¡°Okay.¡±


    ¡°At that time, I will find a few women to assist you. You just focus on cooking.¡± ¡°Okay,¡± Qiao Xiaomai nodded again with a smile.<div>


    ¡°Good, tomorrow morning, 1¡¯11 send Sang to fetch you.¡± Tong Tiehu concluded.


    ¡°Then Ill head back now.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s getting dark, let Sang apany you.¡± Tong Tiehu gestured towards the basket in Tong Sang¡¯s hands, ¡°Put these in the kitchen first.¡±


    Hesitating for a moment, Tong Sang obediently went to the kitchen.


    Then, he took the empty basket to escort Qiao Xiaomai home.


    It wasn¡¯t the first time he had walked Qiao Xiaomai home. Thest time she brought tofu over, he had quietly followed her, and in the end, she gave him a big piece of tofu as ¡®protection fee¡¯.


    Remembering that moment, Tong Sang couldn¡¯t help but sigh.


    Life was morefortable back then. After falling in love, he felt like he was in chains.


    Taking a deep breath in secret, he finally spoke, ¡°This isn¡¯t right.¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡± Qiao Xiaomai turned to look at him.


    ¡°We shouldn¡¯t be seeing each other any more.¡±<div>


    ¡°But I made a promise. A person should keep their word,¡± Qiao Xiaomai raised her eyebrow, ¡°Moreover, it¡¯s just a birthday banquet. It¡¯s not a big deal.¡± Could this possibly get her into trouble?

 Chapter 246: 246: Unexpected Encounter

    Chapter 246: 246: Unexpected Encounter<div>


    Trantor: 549690339


    Tong Sang¡±.. ¡±


    What¡¯s with this rxed and casual tone?<div>


    ¡°Did you buy the house in the town?¡± Not understanding Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s change in attitude, he was the one who changed the subject.


    ¡°I nned not to buy it for the moment.¡±


    ¡°Hmm?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m just a vige girl, I know nothing, Prince Wei will testify for me. No matter what kind of power, in front of the royal family, it shouldn¡¯t be able to jump.¡±


    Tong Sang¡±.. ¡±


    Did she include his Tong Family in this as well?


    ¡°It¡¯s better to go to the town.¡± He took a deep breath and opened his mouth, ¡°There¡¯s not much worth longing for in Anping Vige.¡±


    ¡°My father is still waiting for my mother toe back.¡±


    Tong Sang¡±.. ¡±


    He pursed his lips, ¡°This kind of matter should be decided by you.¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s wait until the harvest of wheat.¡± Qiao Xiaomai chuckled.<div>


    Hmm¡­.


    Now that she has decided to live on a time bomb, should she take the initiative to improve her rtionship with Yang Ye?


    After thestpetition, Yang Ye did note to see her.


    Considering the enthusiasm Yang Ye showed towards her cooking skills, this is a bit strange¡­


    The remaining journey was spent in silence between the two of them.


    Qiao Xiaomai wasn¡¯t really sure what she was thinking, but she could confirm two things. She didn¡¯t want to move from Anping Vige for the time being, and she wanted to keep her word.


    Since she had made up her mind, she naturally followed her feelings.


    ¡°By the way, Prince Wei mentionedst time that my father has 315 acres of farnd. How did this happen?¡±


    ¡°Your mother came to sell thend before, but thend deeds did not go to the county town for transfer, it¡¯s still under your father¡¯s name.¡± Tong Sang replied.


    ¡°Why?¡±


    ¡°You guys happened to live on top of those things, it¡¯s really miserable. My grandfather thought, when you can¡¯t hold on anymore, we¡¯ll return thend deeds to you, and give you a hand.¡±<div>


    Qiao Xiaomai¡±.. ¡±


    She pursed her lips and did not speak again.


    When she kept quiet, Tong Sang naturally didn¡¯t say more.


    The two of them silently walked to the door of the Qiao family, and Qiao Xiaomai waved at Tong Sang, ¡°Brother Tong San, thank you. Go home quickly.¡±


    Tong Sang replied with a grunt, leaving only the words, ¡°See you tomorrow,¡± and then turned and left.


    That night, Qiao Xiaomai, who was following her heart, had a good night¡¯s sleep.


    But Tong Sang was tossing and turning, not sleeping untilte at night.


    The next morning after breakfast, Qiao Xiaomai exined her household chores to the family, and then rode the ox-cart with Tong Sang to the town. The two were silent all the way, just likest night.


    Qiao Xiaomai didn¡¯t know what to say.


    Tong Sang didn¡¯t know what to say.


    The two people silently purchased the necessary spices, vegetables, poultry and fish for tomorrow. As for the pork, the Tong Family would kill a pig, so there was no need to buy it.<div>


    The ox-cart was quickly filled up. The two people then turned to Ji Wei Ju to ask Shopkeeper He if they could make tofu at the birthday banquet tomorrow. Shopkeeper Heughed and said, ¡°Why bother? How much tofu do you need tomorrow? I will have Yuan Ding deliver it for you.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai looked at Tong Sang.


    Tong Sang nodded, ¡°That sounds good too. Troubles to you, Shopkeeper He.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s no trouble.¡± Shopkeeper He waved his hand with a grin.


    Coming out of Ji Wei Ju, just as the two of them were about to return to Anping Vige, they bumped into Yang Ye, who hade to have lunch at Ji Wei Ju.


    Seeing Qiao Xiaomai and Tong Sang, Yang Ye, with a smile on his handsome face, opened the folding fan in his hand and walked over, ¡°Yo, what a coincidence.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai and Tong Sang hastily bowed and greeted him.


    ¡°No need for all these formalities. By the way, the Feng Shui Master I¡¯ve been looking for has arrived, and he is nning to visit Anping Vige in theing days.¡± said Yang Ye.


    Upon hearing this, Qiao Xiaomai turned to look at Tong Sang.


    Showing neither humility nor arrogance, Tong Sang said, ¡°My grandfather is going to have a birthday banquet tomorrow, and Qiao Xiaomai is the head chef. If Your Highness wouldn¡¯t mind, you can visit Anping Vige tomorrow.¡± ¡°Oh? Is it such a coincidence?¡±


    Yang Ye looked at Qiao Xiaomai, with his phoenix eyes curved into crescents, ¡°I will definitelye.¡±


    After tasting the food cooked by Qiao Xiaomai, eating anything else always felt like something was missing.


    Birthday banquet.


    This is something he absolutely cannot miss.


    ¡°Oh yes, are there any vacant houses in your vige? The Feng Shui Master wants to stay in the vige for a while.¡± he added..

 Chapter 247: The Young Man Who Took the Wrong Path

    Chapter 247: The Young Man Who Took the Wrong Path


    Trantor: 549690339


    The Feng Shui Master is staying in the vige for a while?


    Tong Sang¡¯s eyshes didn¡¯t even twitch, he replied, ¡°Yes. However, the vige conditions are simple, I¡¯m afraid it might inconvenience the Master.¡±


    ¡°No harm, I¡¯m a Feng Shui expert after all, I¡¯ve been everywhere, I can endure.¡± Yang Ye nonchntly flicked his fan, his gaze switched back to Qiao Xiaomai, his phoenix eyes shining brightly, ¡°Miss Qiao, His Highness looks forward to tomorrow-¡±


    With his handsome face, a slightly cute tone, he looked like a noble and elegant cat.


    ¡°Themoner girl will do her best.¡± Qiao Xiaomai bowed her head in respect.


    ¡°Good, see you tomorrow.¡± Yang Ye waved his hand and stepped into the Ji Weiju.


    d in a brocade robe, casually swinging a fan in his hand, his bearing was indescribably unrestrained.


    Qiao Xiaomai watched him ascend the stairs, then looked at Tong Sang beside her.


    That Feng Shui master would not onlye to observe but also stay in the vige, could the treasure underneath her home stay hidden?


    Tong Sang¡¯s expression remained calm, he walked a few steps to the bullock cart, ¡°Let¡¯s go, back to the vige.¡±


    He gestured for Qiao Xiaomai to climb onto the cart.


    The cart was full of things, with just enough space for one person. After Qiao Xiaomai sat down, he led the ox towards the outskirts of town.


    The two didn¡¯t speak on the way, as they approached the vige, Qiao Xiaomai finally couldn¡¯t help but ask, ¡°Aren¡¯t you worried?¡±


    ¡°Unless he directly digs up the ground, he won¡¯t find it.¡± Tong Sang¡¯s voice was exceptionally steady.


    Hearing this, Qiao Xiaomai, her gaze on his straight back, pursed her lips, ¡°What if?¡±


    ¡°Are you worrying about me?¡± Tong Sang countered without answering.


    Qiao Xiaomai blinked her peach blossom eyes, her gaze still on Tong Sang¡¯s back, as if it was only natural, ¡°You¡¯ve helped me so many times, 1 naturally hope you¡¯ll be alright.¡±


    I hope you¡¯ll be alright.


    As the words resonated, the corner of Tong Sang¡¯s mouth formed a small curve. So, Qiao Xiaomai doesn¡¯t really dislike him?


    Such a pleasant realization.


    Suppressing the urge to turn back, maintaining his calm tone, he said, ¡°Don¡¯t worry.¡±


    ¡°Really, it¡¯s fine?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s fine.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai fell silent.


    Tong Sang was so decisive, and his martial arts skills were formidable. If he said it was fine, it must indeed be fine, right¡­?


    Staring at Tong Sang¡¯s back, she bit her lip.


    The man before her eyes ¡ª he¡¯s only seventeen¡­


    At this splendid age, his martial arts were exceptional, and his actions dependable.


    Although there were tons of things to do in the world, he chose to do those sneaky, unspeakable things.


    A misguided youth indeed!


    Thinking of their shared moments since she met Tong Sang, she couldn¡¯t help but bite her lip harder.


    What should she do?


    She studied education in university, now she very much wanted to transform into a caring homeroom teacher and earnestly talk some sense into Tong Sang.


    ¡°Miss Qiao, shall we go straight to the new house?¡± Tong Sang suddenly spoke.


    Thisment pulled Qiao Xiaomai back from the sea of pity, she sighed quietly, ¡°Okay.¡±


    So, Tong Sang led the bullock cart towards the new house.


    The ¡°new house¡± Tong Sang referred to was the residence of Tong Dng and Tong Eng in the vige. The Tong Family hadn¡¯t split up, but since Tong Dng and Tong Eng had already reached adulthood, they each had their own houses in the vige.


    The Tong Family owned muchnd, Tong Tiehu, for the purpose of storing grain, had designated their houses to be in the same location, forming arge courtyard.


    The venue for tomorrow¡¯s birthday banquet would be in this courtyard.


    In the courtyard, Jiang Zhuangzhuang¡¯s father, Jiang Lao San, was ughtering a pig, with about a dozen other people bustling about..

 Chapter 231 - 231 Taste

    Chapter 231: Taste


    Trantor: 549690339


    At this point, it was already nearing noontime. The sun was shining overhead, fragrant scent wafting in the surroundings, the hunger in their bellies couldn¡¯t help but stir.


    With a leap, Yang Yended on the high tform.


    Even though he was standing in the middle of the two stoves, his gaze was always locked on Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s side from the corner of his eyes.


    When he was sitting down earlier, he could only smell the aroma, but he couldn¡¯t see what Qiao Xiaomai was doing, which was killing him with curiosity!


    ¡°The dishes are prepared by both youngdies,e on, let¡¯s introduce what¡¯s been made,¡± he said and looked at Qiao Xiaomai, ¡°Miss Qiao, you go first.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai answered and announced the name of the dishes she had cooked.


    Upon hearing this, Yang Ye gently sniffed subconsciously. Braised Pork, Pickled Cabbage, Fish and Pig¡¯s Feet Soup, and cucumbers were nothing extraordinary, what intrigued him were the Sweet and Sour Pork and that cake.


    Especially the cake, the amalgamation of the milky aroma and sweetness had him fixated.


    He took a deep breath to suppress the hunger pangs inside him and then turned his attention to Bai Zhi, ¡°Princess, your turn to introduce.¡±


    Bai Zhi watched him salivating and clenched her fists, she gritted her teeth and introduced her dishes one by one.


    When she was talking, her eyes were scanning the judges. Her gaze was icy.


    She was a princess; she didn¡¯t need to say anything; one expression was enough.


    If they were not afraid of retaliation, they could write Xiaomai¡¯s name directly.


    ¡°Alright, both of the youngdies have finished introducing. Now, the judges will begin tasting the dishes.¡± Yang Ye spoke and snapped his fingers, thereafter ten maids were ushered in.


    The maids held dainty little tes in their hands.


    There were ten judges in total, so they needed to split each dish into ten portions.


    ¡°First taste Miss Qiao¡¯s Braised Pork.¡± As Yang Ye spoke, the pot of Braised Pork was distributed into ten tes and ced in front of the judges.


    The judges included Yang Ye, President Gu, Mrs. Gu, Shopkeeper He, Shopkeeper Zhou, Jiwaiju Chef, Zuixian Building Chef, Fan Jia, and two students from prestigious families.


    As it was close to noontime and the aroma was so intoxicatingly rich, even those who were not that hungry felt their stomachs growling due to the tempting smell.


    The judges, after seeing the beautifully colored Braised Pork on the white tes, unconsciously swallowed their saliva and started tasting with their chopsticks.


    Yang Ye didn¡¯t leave the high tform, he stood there with his te, eating with a contented expression on his face.


    He didn¡¯t get to savor the dish properlyst time because he was annoyed by Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s refusal, but this time he intended to devour it all.


    There were still more than a dozen pieces left in the pot!


    Moreover, it seemed as if Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s culinary skills had improved. Was it his imagination?


    Of course not, President Gu also felt it tasted better thanst time.


    The other people hadn¡¯t tasted Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s Braised Pork before, but it didn¡¯t affect their judgment. They had thought the dish would be greasy, but, unexpectedly, they found it to be quite refreshing and appetizing.


    Yes, beneath the vor of its richness, there was a hint of freshness. They finished eating the two pieces in one go, but didn¡¯t feel greasy at all.


    Amazing!


    ¡°Next is Princess¡¯s Sea Cucumber Stewed with Bamboo Shoots Chicken.¡± Yang Ye, lingering on the taste, licked the corner of his mouth and signaled the maids to serve the tes.


    The judges had all tasted sea cucumber before, a delicacy from the sea and quite delicious.


    Bai Zhi¡¯s cooking skills were superb; the dish of sea cucumber, bamboo shoots, and chicken were perfectly fused together, the color, aroma, and taste were all top-notch.


    This was a universally acknowledged delicacy.


    Only whenpared to Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s Braised Pork, it seemed tock a certain refreshing fragrance. @@novelbin@@


    Then came the second dish.


    Qiao Xiaomai served sour and spicy fish, and Bai Zhi served Clear Stewed Bear Paw.


    The sour and spicy fish had no hint of fishiness, just rich and harmonious sourness and umami. Of course, there was also an indescribable refreshing taste.


    As for the bear paw, it was a top-ss delicacy. After being cooked by Bai Zhi, the vor was very tempting.


    However,pared to Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s dish, it seemed tock something..

 Chapter 249: Kissing the Fingertips

    Chapter 249: Kissing the Fingertips


    Trantor: 549690339


    ¡°Let me see!¡± Tong Sang¡¯s gaze fell on her bleeding finger, his eyes dimmed with regret. Before the annoyance could spread in his heart, he had already taken hold of her left hand.


    The cut was quite deep, and blood was already dripping down.


    The sight of bright red blood against her fair finger was quite shocking.


    Without thinking, he lowered his head and caught her finger in his mouth.


    Qiao Xiaomai


    Her pair of peach blossom eyes widened in disbelief, staring at Tong Sang¡¯s handsome face that was so close to her.


    His eyshes were excessively long,plementing his perfectly sculpted features. From this angle, he looked so good it almost seemed unreal.


    While she was stunned, a warm and soft sensation gently licked her wound.


    !!!


    Her bodypletely stiffened, and her peach blossom eyes widened even more.


    What in the world was happening!


    The soft sensation licked her wound a few more times, then started sucking at it, and then licked it a few more times.


    Qiao Xiaomai¡±¡­¡±


    She felt a tickling sensation spreading rapidly from the wound to the rest of her body.


    And the warmth, softness, and heat it gave off seemed to seep into her flesh from the wound.


    Her blood was circting, and that indescribable sensation of warmth and softness was being rapidly transported throughout her body.


    Her body stiffened even more.


    ¡°Wait here, I¡¯ll go home and get some medicine for you, the cut¡¯s quite deep.¡± Tong Sang seemed unaware of Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s odd situation. After he finished licking the wound clean, he lifted his head and sternly reminded Qiao Xiaomai.


    Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s eyes were wide open.


    Her face was full of shock.


    Taking in her surprised expression, it was now Tong Sang¡¯s turn to freeze.


    He had just¡­


    Rushing to let go of her finger, he apologized, ¡°I¡¯m sorry, I shouldn¡¯t have done that.¡±


    His thin lips formed a straight line, and his handsome face was filled with regret. Damnit.


    He knew well that Qiao Xiaomai didn¡¯t like him, but he had done something so reckless.


    He was doomed.


    Now Qiao Xiaomai would probably like him even less.


    saw so much blood flowing out, so I subconsciously¡­ 1 didn¡¯t mean to take advantage of you¡­¡± He dropped his gaze, wishing fervently that he could turn back time.


    How could he have done something like that!


    ¡°It¡¯s okay, 1 know saliva can stop bleeding.¡± Seeing Tong Sang looking as if he wanted to bash his head against the wall in regret, Qiao Xiaomai raised an eyebrow.


    Actually¡­


    If this had happened in the past, if any man dared to do this, she would have kicked him out without hesitation.


    But just now, she froze and didn¡¯t even think of kicking him away.


    She thought back to the strange sensation earlier and gave a low chuckle. Well, she might as well just follow her heart¡¯s intuition.


    ¡°Uh¡­you can go home and get the medicine.¡± Her mind was a chaos, and she didn¡¯t know what else to say, so she followed up on what he was saying earlier.


    Her words were undeniably music to Tong Sang¡¯s ears.


    Immediately, his body un-stiffened.


    ¡°I¡¯ll be back right away.¡± He dropped these words and rushed out of the kitchen like a gust of wind.


    If it were night, he would surely be employing his light footwork by now.


    Qiao Xiaomai looked at the spot where he had just been standing, and a smile fluttered across her face, one that she herself wasn¡¯t aware of.


    She rolled her dark eyes, sighed, and looked down at her injured finger.


    ¡°Huh?¡±


    Her eyes widened again.


    Thinking that she might be seeing things, she hurriedly held her left hand up to inspect the wound.


    Afraid that saliva might have obscured the wound, she turned around, quietly took out a tissue from her pouch, and gently wiped the wound.


    Then she brought her left hand up to her eyes again.


    On the middle finger of her left hand, near the fingernail, the deep wound was already scabbing over!


    She wasn¡¯t misreading it, the wound was indeed scabbing over!


    Could Tong Sang¡¯s saliva be the equivalent of a miracle cure?


    (OoO)

 Chapter 250: It’s Worth It

    Chapter 250: It¡¯s Worth It


    Trantor: 549690339


    This fact was astonishing.


    And for some unknown reason, it made her feel slightly awkward.


    She had been injured before, but her healing speed was the same as normal people.


    So, was the reason rted to Dong Sang?


    Or perhaps, it was somehow rted to the Spiritual Spring in her space?


    Since the appearance of the Spiritual Spring, she hadn¡¯t been injured or bled.


    Without much hesitation, she picked up the kitchen knife again and gently made a slight cut on her left arm.


    Blood oozed out, so she turned and squatted down quietly, using some water from the Spiritual Spring to clean the small wound.


    No use.


    The blood was still flowing.


    She lowered her head again, sticking her tongue out to lick the wound.


    The blood was still flowing.


    However, saliva had the effect of stopping the blood, so when Dong Sang came back with the ointment, the bleeding stopped.


    But the wound hadn¡¯t started to scab.


    Eliminating the possibilities of the effects of the Spiritual Spring and saliva, there was only one possibility left.


    Thinking of this, she looked at Dong Sang.


    A smile blossomed on her lips, and she beckoned to Dong Sang, ¡°Come, lick it.¡±


    Having spoken, she raised her left arm to Dong Sang, pointing to the little wound with her right hand.


    Dong Sang¡±¡­¡±


    Hepletely froze.


    What was going on here?


    ¡°Don¡¯t freeze, lick it.¡± Upon seeing Dong Sang stand there nkly, Qiao Xiaomai urged him.


    ¡°Not, not okay?¡± Dong Sang recovered, he took a deep breath, trying his best to suppress his heart pounding like a drum, maintained a calm demeanor as much as he could, raising his hand to pull down Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s sleeve that she¡¯d rolled up. ¡°There are so many people outside, it¡¯s not okay to do this.¡±


    Luckily no one saw his reckless act just now, otherwise, there would definitely rumors flying around in the vige.


    ¡°Here, this ointment specially treats external injuries, smear some, then bind it with a silk cloth, it should heal within two to three days.¡± He spoke, taking out the small tin box of ointment and a piece of silk cloth from his bosom and handed it to Qiao Xiaomai.


    Qiao Xiaomai¡±¡­¡±


    She twitched the corners of her mouth, taking her now-scabbed wound in front of him, ¡°Your saliva is as effective as an immortal elixir, Dong Sange. I asked you to lick it for me to test this matter.¡±


    Dong Sang¡±¡­¡±


    He stared at that wound, his pupils contracted, his mind filled with shock.


    Seeing what he was thinking, Qiao Xiaomai hurriedly said, ¡°Don¡¯t imagine things, I¡¯m a mortal, I don¡¯t have such divine power, the main reason lies with you.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Dong Sang fell silent for a moment, ¡°I am also a mortal, I don¡¯t possess such divine power either.¡±


    ¡°Is that so? Then, you better lick this wound.¡± Qiao Xiaomai rolled up her sleeve again.


    Dong Sang stared at her fair skin and subconsciously swallowed his saliva.


    ¡°Hurry up.¡± Qiao Xiaomai urged again.


    ¡°There are people outside, let¡¯s wait till no one is around to, to try.¡± he stammered.


    That ¡®lick¡¯, it was really hard for him to utter.


    Upon hearing this, Qiao Xiaomai turned her head to look outside the door.


    The courtyard was bustling with peopleing and going, ughter the pig, steam the buns, pick the vegetables, it was a hive of activity.


    She reluctantly clicked her tongue twice, reluctantly saying, ¡°Fine.¡±


    ¡°You sit down quickly, I am going to cut some cucumbers.¡± Hearing her, Dong Sang quickly stuffed the ointment and the silk cloth back into his bosom and quickly stood in front of the cutting board.


    All kinds of emotions roared within him, nearly exploding his body!


    She was actually holding out her fair arm for him to lick!


    The blood in his body was going to surge back!


    It was worth it, regardless of what will happen in the future, that brief intimacy just now was enough for him to reminisce.


    It was enough.


    With that thought, he breathed out slowly, picking up the kitchen knife with his right hand.


    Yes, next he is going to cook for her, preferably the most delicious dish possible.


    What a wonderful day!

 Chapter 234 - 234: You look very ugly now

    Chapter 234: You look very ugly now


    Trantor: 549690339


    Yang Ye clicked his tongue and turned his head towards Bai Zhi, ¡°You¡¯ve lost, take out three hundred taels of silver, pack your bags, and head back to the Capital City. Land is hard toe by in Bailu Town. You lost three hundred acres, I¡¯ll rece them for you.¡±


    Bai Zhi¡¯s body stiffened like a log. Her lips trembled a few times, then formed a straight line.


    She had a feeling after smelling the aroma wafting from Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s side, but seeing the small pile of wheat, her face couldn¡¯t help but turn pale.


    Cooking was what she was most proud of, a skill she had honed for years in the effort to impress Yang Ye.


    And now, it was crushed by a country woman.


    Out of ten people, none of them chose hers.


    Not a single one!


    This fact, like a heavy hammer, struck at her mercilessly.


    Her beauty was natural.


    Martial Arts, she practiced casually.


    But her culinary skills, she had worked hard on them, and they were trampled into trash by a country mouse.


    A sourness welled up in her nose and ayer of mist abruptly gathered in her beautiful eyes. She stared at Yang Ye without making a sound.


    ¡°What are you crying for? Miss Qiao¡¯s dish is genuinely better than yours. If you don¡¯t believe it, you can try it yourself.¡± Yang Ye¡¯s eyebrows furrowed, ¡°And besides, I¡¯ve sent everyone away. The result of this contest won¡¯t get out. You don¡¯t have to worry about any repercussions on your reputation.¡± @@novelbin@@


    He and Bai Zhi grew up together, and there was a sibling-like bond between them.


    He felt he had done everything to honour that bond.


    ¡°Ye, my brother, do you so eagerly wish for me to lose?¡± Deeply inhaling a breath, Bai Zhi spoke, her voice trembling, her eyes filled with tears, ¡°You shouldn¡¯t have changed the way of choosing randomly,pletely cutting off all my chances of victory.¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t wish for you to lose. I wanted to ensure the fairness of the contest. The wager you proposed offhandedly may seem easy to you, but for Miss Qiao, it¡¯s her entire property. Even if my father was here, he would do the same,¡± Yang Ye patiently exined.


    Bai Zhi was always rational as long as he was not involved. Otherwise, she would not have gained the affection of his father.


    Oh, he med his irresistible charm entirely.


    If his charm were a bit lower, Bai Zhi wouldn¡¯t have revealed such an ugly aspect due to jealousy.


    Well, let¡¯s let it go for now, in consideration of Bai Zhi acting out of love for him.


    ¡°Go pack your bags.¡± He waved his hand casually, and then turned his attention to Qiao Xiaomai.


    A glimmer of curiosity shone in his phoenix eyes.


    How amazing to find such a gem in a small vige!


    This eager anticipation was seen by Bai Zhi as him being eager to approach


    Qiao Xiaomai and eager to get rid of her.


    Why?


    Why!


    She bit her lip and reached for her waist.


    This time she did not pull out her waistband, but a white whip. ¡°Ye, my brother, you¡¯ve gone too far!¡±


    She, a nobledy, shouldn¡¯t be trampled under the foot of a vige woman!


    Tong Sang, who had been watching Bai Zhi, saw her make a move and quickly shielded Qiao Xiaomai.


    His movements were as quick as lightning, raising his long arm and grabbing the whip aimed at Qiao Xiaomai.


    Yang Ye turned around impatiently. His phoenix eyes slightly narrowed, his tone cold, ¡°I remember I once told you that jealousy makes people look ugly. Do you know how ugly you look right now?¡±


    ¡°Miss Qiao made everything taste good, there was no greasy feeling after finishing. If you don¡¯t believe me, you cane and taste it yourself.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve been trying to protect your reputation. If you keep on making a scene, 1 will have the Academy announce the result publicly!¡±


    Among all these words, the most hurtful one was ¡®You look ugly now¡¯. Hearing it, Bai Zhi¡¯s tears fell like pearls off a broken thread.


    Who was she doing this for?


    She was being used of being ugly!

 Chapter 235 - 235: Tie it up!

    Chapter 235: Tie it up!


    Trantor: 549690339


    Bai Zhi was angry beyond measure, struggling to free her whip.


    But it was as if a mountain was holding the other end of her whip, not budging regardless of her desperate efforts.


    She gritted her teeth, resolved, and aimed a palm strike at Tong Sang.


    She did not believe Tong Sang would dare to fight her.


    ¡°Enough!¡± Seeing that his patient persuasion was not working, Yang Ye¡¯s handsome face grimaced in frustration.


    His countenance was dark as deep water, his hand raised in equal resolve, his voice grew stern, ¡°Examine your behavior! Where does it match your status?!¡±


    ¡°If you continue acting recklessly, do you believe that 1 won¡¯t have you tied up and sent back to the capital city?¡±


    At these words, Bai Zhi¡¯s fury increased.


    She swallowed back tears and shouted, ¡°Brother Ye, I love you. If not for your inexplicable fondness for this vige girl, would 1 have be this ugly?!¡±


    Upon hearing this, Yang Ye¡¯s eyebrows raised dramatically, ¡°It was because of her excellent cooking skills that I even noticed her.¡±


    Inexplicably?


    Would His Highness Prince Wei inexplicably pay attention to a vige girl?


    Bai Zhi¡¯s words were insulting his intelligence!


    ¡°Plus, there are countless youngdies enamored with this prince in the entire capital city. Are any of them behaving like you? This is your jealousy, don¡¯t ce the me on this prince or Miss Qiao.¡±


    As he spoke these words, Qiao Xiaomai couldn¡¯t help but nod quietly.


    Yes, indeed! ming others when it is clearly one¡¯s own fault.


    Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s cooking skills were excellent. Was it her fault?


    Upon hearing this, Bai Zhi cried even harder. Her attacks became more fierce. She was so hurt by his stern reprimands!


    But the harshest words were yet toe.


    While Yang Ye continued to defend against her, he also chastised her in a continuous monologue, ¡°Unwilling to ept the truth? Test it for yourself!¡±


    ¡°You might be in a rage and rush to reprimand others, but you never seek to understand the strength of your opponent. In this way, you will never improve.¡±


    ¡°If you can¡¯t know yourself and the enemy, but rely on your identity and martial arts to oppress people, are you living up to your father¡¯s love over the years? The emperor does not act like this!¡±


    ¡°You look down upon her because she is a vige girl, don¡¯t you? My great grandfather was originally andlord, even he did not despise her. Who are you posturing for with your high and mighty attitude?!¡±


    His great-grandfather had tasted the cold jelly tofu and praised it highly. He would respect those with real talent, no matter how lowly their status.


    As the mighty Prince Wei, he recognized this, so why did Bai Zhi look down on Qiao Xiaomai?


    Yang Ye¡¯s words were frank and justified. Listening to this, Bai Zhi¡¯s tears flowed even more fiercely.


    His words were attacking her from all sides!


    Not only did he bring Emperor Yong¡¯an into it, but he also mentioned his great-grandfather.


    With such fierce criticism, what could she even say in response?


    She was utterly stifled!


    ¡°Refusing to repent, are you? Call someone! Bind up the princess and take her back to the capital city. Send a message to the Old King: she is not to set foot out of the house again!¡±


    Yang Ye was genuinely irritated. He moved quickly, subduing Bai Zhi in a brief struggle and binding her hands behind her back using her whip.


    Then he swiftly aim a chop towards the side of her neck. @@novelbin@@


    His moves were clean and fast.


    Shocked and then subdued, Bai Zhi¡¯s body tensed and then suddenly copsed to the ground.


    Yang Ye quickly caught her and called over his maid and guards as well as Bai Zhi¡¯s maid to arrange her return to the capital city.


    Despite everything, there was still a hint of sibling affection between them. He did not want Bai Zhi to lose face in front of everyone.


    His reproach alone was already damaging enough to shake Bai Zhi to the core.


    It was enough to make her reflect for some time.


    ¡°Ah, yes, Miss Qiao, don¡¯t you worry. This prince will cover those 300 taels of silver and the 300 acres ofnd.¡± Watching as the maids carried Bai Zhi further away, he turned to Qiao Xiaomai and spoke..

 Chapter 253: Spitting Saliva

    Chapter 253: Spitting Saliva


    Trantor: 549690339


    Upon hearing this, Qiao Xiaomai took the oilmp from his hand, then handed him the small knife she was holding.


    He took the knife and made a cut on his left arm.


    The wound was as deep as Xiaomai¡¯s, and blood seeped out.


    He bent down to lick his wound, just as he had done for Xiaomai.


    ¡°Alright, just wait.¡± He raised his head after licking the wound and subconsciously looked at Xiaomai, who was standing opposite him.


    Xiaomai was watching him closely.


    Her peony-shaped eyes were shimmering, never blinking as they stared at him.


    He felt a sudden jolt in his chest as if he had been hit by something, which made him halt his breath.


    His lips pressed into a line, his gaze dropped quickly.


    Xiaomai in front of him was distractingly beautiful.


    Seeing him like this, Xiaomai also felt somewhat ill at ease.


    She coughed twice, raising the oilmp to her own arm.


    ¡°Huh?¡± Her eyes widened in surprise.


    Upon hearing her voice, he immediately looked over.


    The wound that was just bleeding and peeling had now formed a scab.


    The vivid red of the scab against her pale skin somehow reminded him of red plum blossoms blooming in a snowy field in winter.


    What an odd thought.


    He pursed his lips, hurriedly gathering his scattered thoughts, and looked down at his own arm.


    It was still bleeding.


    He had just licked the blood clean from the wound, but now more blood was seeping out.


    ¡°Huh? Your wound hasn¡¯t healed yet.¡± Xiaomai also looked over, surprise shing across her face as she saw he was still bleeding.


    ¡°Why does your saliva doesn¡¯t work on your wound?¡±


    He stayed silent.


    Since childhood, he had experienced many injuries due to martial arts practice, but his wounds always healed at a normal pace, he never experienced such instant scabbing before.


    The one with the Divine Power was Xiaomai, not him.


    ¡°Your saliva doesn¡¯t work on your wounds, but it does on mine. Um¡­ Should I lick your wound for you? Maybe my saliva will work on your wound?¡± Xiaomai thought for a moment, and proposed her theory.


    May 1 lick it for you?


    Those five words made him instantly stiffen.


    He held his breath. His dark eyes widened incredulously as he stared at Xiaomai.


    ¡°Come on.¡± Xiaomai motioned him to extend his arm towards her.


    ¡°No need.¡± He snapped back to reality and quickly retreated two steps back, ¡°Blood taste is terrible.¡±


    ¡°But you swallowed it anyway.¡±


    ¡°I am a man, it doesn¡¯t matter to me. But you, being ady, it¡¯s not proper.¡± He hesitated for a moment, then put the small knife back between his legs. He took a handkerchief from his pocket and wiped the blood clean from the wound. Then, he lifted his arm up to Xiaomai, ¡°You¡­just spit on the wound.¡±


    If Xiaomai actually acted on her words, he felt that he would surely blush to his core!


    ¡°You want me to spit on your wound? That¡¯s distasteful.¡± Xiaomai frowned.


    ¡°Um¡­ I haven¡¯t bathed in more than ten days, I¡¯m dirty.¡± His mind quickly spun for another excuse.


    Xiaomai¡±¡­¡±


    His clothes always carried the scent of soapberries, so did his hair!


    How could he have not bathed in over ten days!


    ¡°Really, just spit on it.¡± He said and stretched his arm forward once again towards Xiaomai.


    Xiaomai¡±¡­¡±


    Her mouth twitched and she reluctantly spat on his wound.


    He spread the saliva evenly around the wound with his fingers.


    Xiaomai¡±¡­¡±


    So strange¡­


    She had really just spat on it.

 Chapter 237 - 237 The Importance of Mastering a Craft

    Chapter 237: The Importance of Mastering a Craft


    Trantor: 549690339


    When a person shows off only a limited amount of attention-grabbing skills, they be easy prey to avarice.


    Yet when someone brings forth an abundant supply of powerful tools and talents, that greed is held in check as those around choose to coexist in a friendly manner.


    They might even admire and honor them.


    Ingenuity and talent were coveted like precious assets inter generations.


    Those with true skill were sought after relentlessly.


    The same goes for culinary prowess.


    When she¡¯d only revealed two of her recipes that had already been sold, Yang Ye expressed the intent of bringing her back to Wang Residence to serve as a kitchen maid.


    His attitude then was carefree and arrogant.


    Now, upon witnessing her uniqueness and high-skilled craftsmanship, Yang Ye¡¯s demeanor changed.


    He started to regard her with respect.


    When he took a seat, so could she.


    Yang Ye didn¡¯t care when she stood up to Bai Zhi¡¯s arrogance today.


    It was clear, she had won her gamble.


    Her heart, that had been in her throat, could now safely descend.


    With this in mind, she spoke up, ¡°1 dare not defy Your Highness¡¯smand. It¡¯s just the red oil¡­¡±


    ¡°What about it?¡± Upon seeing her pause, Yang Ye hurriedly questioned.


    ¡°The red oil isn¡¯t from the cornelian cherries. It¡¯s from a seasoning 1 discovered in the mountains. I only found a handful of nts, and I¡¯ve already used it all up,¡± a look of difficulty appeared on Xiaomai¡¯s face.


    If there were chili peppers dangling around here, her significance and status could have been elevated a little further.


    ¡°You discovered it in the mountains?¡± Yang Ye looked quite surprised.


    ¡°Yes.¡± Xiaomai said, her face patiently maintaining a lie, as she described how she¡¯d found the chili peppers.


    Tong Sang couldn¡¯t help curling his lip.


    However, Xiaomai¡¯s calm and collected demeanor while spinning a lie to a dignitary was rather charming.


    ¡°I see.¡± Yang Ye muttered, followed by a sigh of regret.


    Such a good thing and he would have to wait several months to see it again?


    Chili peppers, so purely piquant without a trace of bitterness, such a culinary treasure.


    If what Xiaomai said was true, chili peppers would soon rece cornelian cherries and be even more beloved among people.


    With a few sighs in his heart, he asked again, ¡°What about the cake?¡±


    ¡°I can make another one right now,¡± Xiaomai replied.


    ¡°Later, let¡¯s have lunch first,¡± Yang Ye waved his hand dismissively. There were several other matters he wanted to discuss with Xiaomai.


    For instance, the sweet and sour pork with its fresh cooking method and exceptional taste.


    And the refreshingly unique texture hiding beneath the braised pork.


    Even after polishing off a dozen pieces of the greasy pork, he surprisingly yearned for anotherrge tter. Incredible!


    Not just the braised pork, the pickled cabbage, fish, and pig¡¯s feet soup evoked simr feelings.


    If it was just a single dish, this could be considered a fluke.


    However, since it was the case for multiple dishes, it surely warranted further investigation.


    At this thought, his gazended on Xiaomai.


    He came to Bailu Town for two reasons. One was to pay a visit to the dean of Gu Academy, the other was to meet the girl who invented the cold jelly tofu delicacy. @@novelbin@@


    And the reality proved to him that he didn¡¯t make this trip in vain.


    In this remote and poor mountain town, he had discovered a bright and dazzling sparkle.


    He had stumbled upon a stunning gem.


    Tong Sang sat quietly in a corner, observing Yang Ye¡¯s shifting demeanor without fuss.


    His handsome face maintained aposed expression.


    No ripple of emotions danced in his eyes.


    Xiaomai deserved the best.


    At present, Yang Ye seemed to be the best choice.


    Right now, Yang Ye might not be considering anything romantic, but given Xiaomai¡¯s charm, he¡¯d likely be thinking along those lines soon.


    Whenpared to him, who was insidiously plotting a rebellion, any sensible person would know how to choose..

 Chapter 238: This Favor, Owed Big Time

    Chapter 238: This Favor, Owed Big Time


    Trantor: 549690339


    At the dinner table, Yang Ye kept asking questions, and Qiao Xiaomai kept answering them.


    Of course, she told the truth when she could.


    When she couldn¡¯t, she lied: her delicious cooking was merely a result of her superior skills.


    Unable to get the whole story from her, Yang Ye quickly shifted his attention to Tong Sang.


    The martial arts disyed by Tong Sang was really beyond his expectation.


    Practicing internal strength can lead to levitation skills, and with strong inner strength, one can move objects from a distance.


    But there¡¯s a limit to it.


    Even with superb martial arts, a mortal body can¡¯t perform too many miracles.


    But Tong Sang¡¯s internal strength was capable of making a person fly, which was indeed magical. He had never seen such an expert in his life.


    A gemstone emerged from a humble mountain valley, apanied by a martial arts expert.


    The Feng Shui of this valley must be very good.


    ¡°In response to your highness, I found a martial arts secret book in the mountain when I was young. My martial arts skills are learned from this book at random,¡± Tong Sang calmly replied to the puzzled Yang Ye.


    Yang Ye let out a long ¡°oh¡±, the tone of which was extremely prolonged, with a trace of emotion, ¡°Chili peppers, secret books, your Rooster Mountain really is a treasure mountain.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai remained expressionless.


    Tong Sang too, didn¡¯t change his expression.


    Yang Ye¡¯s eyes scanned them, a smile appearing at the corner of his mouth, ¡°I should visit your vige sometime, and I will bring a Feng Shui master to assess your vige¡¯s Feng Shui.¡±


    ¡°The vigers of Anping Vige are ready to wee your highness at any time,¡± Tong Sang respectfully replied.


    Yang Ye nodded with a smile. He snapped his fingers, and a maid stepped forward, carrying a tray in her hands, ¡°Here is the banknote, 1,300 taels. 300 taels are for the youngdy and the other 1,000 are for your cake and sweet and sour pork recipe.¡±


    ¡°ording to the Daqi Law, each person can only have up to 500 acres of farnd. Right now, your father already owns 315 acres, so I can only give you 185 acres this time.¡±


    ¡°The remaining 115 acres, do you want to convert them into silver, or do you want to deposit them in your county registry and use them as your dowry when you get married?¡±


    315 acres?


    Qiao Xiaomai was stunned. Before, she had only bought five acres from Tong Sang, and the remaining ten were still in Tong Sang¡¯s hands.


    She pursed her lips, then replied, ¡°Convert them into silver, please.¡±


    ¡°Fine, it will be converted ording to the price of premium farnd. One acre equals ten taels, making a total of 1,150 taels. Today was a tough day, so 1¡¯11 add an extra 50 taels as a tip, to round up the number.¡±


    As soon as Yang Ye finished speaking, the maid took out another silver note, making a total of 1,200 taels.


    From this challenge with Bai Zhi, Qiao Xiaomai gained a total of 2,500 taels of silver and 185 acres of premium farnd. It was quite a big windfall.


    They left Yang Ye¡¯s vi and got into the carriage that would take them back to Anping vige.


    Inside the carriage, Tong Sang remained in the same posture as when they arrived, sitting straight with his eyes fixed on the opposite wall, not looking elsewhere. @@novelbin@@


    Just like on the way there, Qiao Xiaomai was also closing her eyes.


    But her heart was anything but calm.


    Tonight ended perfectly. Bai Zhi was sent to the capital, and Yang Ye also dropped the idea of hiring her as his kitchen maid.


    She gained silver and farnd.


    But what about Tong Sang?


    For her, Tong Sang revealed his skills.


    What was even worse was that Yang Ye might visit Anping Vige in the future.


    The old national treasury was buried under her family¡¯s house.


    She owed him big time.


    She pursed her lips, opened her eyes, and looked at Tong Sang, ¡°Are you okay?¡±


    The coachman was outside; she didn¡¯t dare to be too explicit.


    But Tong Sang understood, ¡°I¡¯m fine..¡±

 Chapter 239: Cannot Be Ignored

    Chapter 239: Cannot Be Ignored


    Trantor: 549690339


    Qiao Xiaomai looked at his handsome profile, then dropped her gaze.


    He said it was fine.


    But he had also said that the treasure could not be hidden much longer; if Yang Ye really brought people over, and if they discovered it¡­


    What would ensue would be a fierce and bloody scramble.


    But what could she say?


    He had rescued her unexpectedly that day.


    Had epted her invitation to protect her today.


    Not only protected her safety, but also helped her to disguise, and fiercely pped Bai Zhi¡¯s face.


    How should she repay such a favour¡­


    She pondered the whole journey but couldn¡¯te up with anything.


    When they reached the entrance of the vige, Tong Sang asked the coachman to stop. He jumped off the carriage, stood up, and looked at Qiao Xiaomai. A faint smile could be seen on his handsome face, ¡°Miss Qiao, I am going up the mountain for a walk, I¡¯ll take my leave first.¡±


    People had to smile, even if their heart was bitter like swallowing caltrop, they had to put on a happy face in front of the girl they love.


    Qiao Xiaomai looked back at him, returning his smile, ¡°Thank you for today, Brother Tong San.¡±


    ¡°No need to be polite.¡± There was a bit more of a smile on Tong Sang¡¯s handsome face, ¡°Go home, I¡¯m leaving.¡±


    After saying that, he stepped forward into the vige and headed west.


    In fact, he wanted to tell her toe to him if she needed anything in the future.


    He would be d to help her.


    But given his identity, he hoped that she would always be safe and never need his help again.


    He pressed his lips tightly, took a deep breath, and rubbed his chest with his hand.


    Such a feeling, how painful indeed.


    Ahead, Qiao Xiaomai watched Tong Sang leave, biting her lip so hard she almost broke the skin.


    When she got home and thanked the coachman, she knocked on the gate of the courtyard.


    The voice of Qiao Dami sounded, ¡°Are you back? Is it sister?¡±


    She hummed in reply, raising her hand to rub her face. @@novelbin@@


    She had to smile; she couldn¡¯t let this innocent father and son notice anything strange.


    She had won the contest; she had tough happily.


    So when Qiao Dami opened the gate, she bent over to hug him, and with a joyfulugh, she went into the courtyard and shared her joy of winning with the father and son.


    A banknote, a deed.


    They were truly wonderful things.


    Qiao Dami cheered, smiling from ear to ear.


    Qiao Changshun was also happy, his joy causing the hand holding the banknote and the deed to tremble slightly.


    This was really a fortune falling from the sky!


    ¡°Okay, dad, I¡¯m going in to change.¡± said Qiao Xiaomai.


    She had to remove her makeup too; after a long day of troubles, not only her body was tired, but also her mind.


    ¡°Rest a while, rest a while.¡± Qiao Changshun nodded understandingly and pushed the banknote and deed into Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s hand, ¡°Never mind the rest, just go and rest.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai took the banknote and deed, hummed in agreement, then went to her room.


    She removed her makeup and changed her clothes, then reallyy down on the bed.


    Closing her eyes, she recalled the events of the past few days one by one.


    She was inexplicably pulled by Shopkeeper He to cook for Yang Ye.


    She rejected Yang Ye, with worries in her heart.


    Tong Sang came to confess to her, she rejected.


    Then she severed ties with the Sun family, and Sun Junyan was beaten.


    After that, she met Tong Sang on the mountain by chance, exchanged secrets, and learned about the ticking time bomb hidden at home.


    Her anxiety got worse.


    Then the Sun family and Qiao Meipan tried to nder her, she went to the town to sell dried tofu and met Bai Zhi.


    She nearly fell from the second floor.


    And was saved by Tong Sang.


    Remembering that moment, she took a long breath, finally understanding the true meaning of the phrase ¡®a life-saving grace¡¯.


    When the whole world was shrouded in terror, Tong Sang tore away the darkness like a ray of light, sweeping away all fears.


    He saved her, and her entire world.


    The feeling of reliability he gave her was¡­


    Impossible to ignore.


    Truly impossible to ignore..

 Chapter 257: Sun Junyan is Unlucky

    Chapter 257: Sun Junyan is Unlucky


    Trantor: 549690339


    Upon hearing this, Qiao Qinghe pointed at the two vigers already seated at the table, ¡°Just sit anywhere, if they arrivete, they can sit wherever there¡¯s room.¡±


    Upon hearing Qiao Qinghe¡¯s words, Qiao Changshun turned his head to gaze at the scene in the courtyard and nodded, ¡°Alright.¡±


    Although Tong Family¡¯s courtyard covered two homesteads, there were several thousand people in Anping Vige.


    At this moment, not only was the courtyard filled with tables, but tables were also set up on the street, upying the whole street.


    Even so, not all people could be seated. ording to past custom, there would be two turns. Only after the first batch of people had finished eating could theters take their seats.


    Qiao Xiaomai was busy in the kitchen. She overheard the conversation between Qiao Changshun and Qiao Qinghe, which caused her to furrow her eyebrows.


    The tone of Qiao Qinghe indicated that there might be some hidden agendas.


    Qiao Changshun was naive and easy-going and didn¡¯t notice, but she did.


    What trouble are Qiao Changfu and Zhu Cuiying stirring up now?


    Indeed, they were stirring trouble, but it was trouble involving Sun Junyan.


    Last time when Tong Tiehu went to the Academy to file aint about Sun Junyan, the Academy Director straightforwardly revoked Sun Junyan¡¯s school registration and expelled him from Bailu Academy.


    This blew up the Qiao Family.


    Therge Qiao family had been financially supporting Sun Junyan for ten years like clockwork, only to find that Sun Junyan was now expelled from the Academy, effectively ending his future prospects.


    Everyone¡¯s hopes for him were now shattered.


    After the heartbreak, the families of Qiao Changfu, Qiao Chang¡¯an, and Qiao Changkang promptly cut their losses: the fifty coins they used to provide for Sun Junyan¡¯s school tuition each month were now held back.


    Not only that, they demanded that Sun Junyan return the copper coins they had given him over this ten-year period.


    The initial agreement they had when the family divided was to give Sun Junyan fifty coins each month as a loan, which he was supposed to return in full someday.


    Now, Sun Junyan¡¯s prospects werepletely dashed, but they all had sons.


    If Sun Junyan could no longer continue his studies, their sons could take his ce.


    Therefore, the copper coins they spent over the past ten years needed to be refunded.


    With this intention, the three brothers stirred up trouble in the old courtyard.


    At that time, Sun Junyan was still nursing his injuries. The medicinal soups he drank every day were still bought with money from Qiao Qinghe, and he couldn¡¯t repay a single copper coin.


    He couldn¡¯t pay back, but it didn¡¯t matter, Sun Junyan was not a pauper. He hadnds, thirty acres.


    In addition, he had taken over fifteen acres from Qiao Changshun¡¯s family, making a total of forty-five acres.


    All thesends were nted with wheat. Now, since Sun Junyan couldn¡¯t repay with copper coins, he could use his wheat aspensation.


    At the wheat harvest season, the three brothers, Qiao Changfu, Qiao Chang¡¯an, and Qiao Changkang, seized all of Sun Junyan¡¯s wheat as their own.


    This action almost made Qiao Qinghe sick with rage.


    However, he couldn¡¯t fall ill.


    He still had his own thirty acres of wheat field to tend, and he still had to take care of Sun Junyan, his wife, and his daughter, Qiao Meipan.


    Even though they all lived in the same courtyard, ever since Tong Tiehu threatened to drive Sun Junyan¡¯s family out of the vige, Qiao Changfu and Zhu Cuiying had be indifferent to him.


    Except for the straightforward Qiao Dazhu, he had no one else in that household to help him.


    Therefore, he could not afford to be sick.


    Struggling to hold on, he finally pulled through, although life at home was much worse than before.


    To afford the medicine for Sun Junyan, Meipan, and his wife, his savings from these years were all gone.


    Thinking of his current situation at home, Qiao Qinghe sighed inwardly.


    It was his fault. A parent¡¯s failure to educate their kids inevitably led to their wayward behaviors. It served him right to suffer now.


    Just as Qiao Qinghe managed to maintain his smile, Qiao Xiaomai finally finished preparing the meal for Yang Ye in the kitchen.


    At this time, everyone from the first round was seated. She ced the meal she had prepared for Yang Ye in warm water, rolled out the dough for the longevity noodles, then went under the shelter to prepare the stir-fry dishes.


    The birthday banquet was about to start..

 Chapter 258: I’ll Marry You, Xiaomai!

    Chapter 258: I¡¯ll Marry You, Xiaomai!


    Trantor: 549690339


    The process of a birthday banquet in this ce was quite simple. A gong sound, and the banquet begun.


    The invited opera troupe would sing a birthday song, followed by Tong Tiehu, the birthday star, saying a few words. Finally, the children and grandchildren of the Tong family would present their gifts in front of everyone.


    Finally, another gong sound, and the banquet officially started. Food was served!


    The youngds ran around holding trays, delivering tes of cold dishes to each table.


    Qiao Xiaomai, the head chef, began to stir-fry the hot dishes.


    The Tong family was well-off, half of the dishes served at the banquet were meat, and coupled with Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s good cooking skills, the courtyard and the streets on both sides were bustling with excitement.


    People were whispering into each other¡¯s ears, praising the food.


    Qiao Changshun tasted the delicious food on the table, his wrinkled face glowing with pride as he heard everyone praising Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s cooking skills. He felt proud!


    Having lived for decades, this was the proudest moment of his life!


    ¡°Changsun, Xiaomai¡¯s cooking isparable to the master chef of the Restaurant, isn¡¯t it?¡± A viger at the table chuckled, ¡°You guys might as well open a restaurant in town.¡±


    Qiao Changshun almostughed his mouth off, but modestly replied, ¡°No, no. She¡¯s just a girl, she can¡¯tpare to a professional chef.¡±


    Why open a restaurant? It¡¯s good enough to be a richndowner in Anping Vige.


    ¡°Say, Xiaomai¡¯s of age, has her marriage been settled?¡± Someone at the table asked again.


    Although Zhuang Luhe running away had greatly tarnished Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s reputation, now the Qiao family had bothnd and money.


    This kind of solid wealth was probably unmatched by the Tong family. Compared to this substantial wealth, what does a vague reputation matter? Despite Jiang Zhuangzhuang being a fool who likes to fight, there were still many girls willing to marry him, let alone Qiao Xiaomai who was beautiful and capable.


    Money is the real deal.


    Therefore, even with Zhuang Luhe as a mother, many people in Anping Vige have begun to show interest in Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s marriage affairs.


    ¡°No, not yet. We¡¯re in no rush.¡± Mentioning this, Qiao Changshun shook his head.


    ¡°What kind of person does Xiaomai like?¡± The person asked again.


    Qiao Changshun chuckled, ¡°She¡¯s shy, she¡¯s never talked about this, but she¡¯s not in a hurry.¡±


    He wasn¡¯t really naive, he had sensed the hidden intentions in this person¡¯s question.


    But now that he had set his sights on Tong Sang as his son-inw, he had to turn other men down.


    The questioner noticed his subtle refusal and didn¡¯t ask anymore.


    However, he wasn¡¯t giving up on Qiao Xiaomai yet. As long as she wasn¡¯t married, there was still a chance.


    At this time, there was another person interested in Qiao Xiaomai: Jiang Zhuangzhuang.


    The Jiang family¡¯s people also came to Tong Tiehu¡¯s birthday celebration, including Jiang Zhuangzhuang.


    Although Jiang Zhuangzhuang was a bit dim, he loved good food. Previously, he wanted to marry the original owner because of her culinary skills.


    Now, Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s cooking skills were several notches higher than the original owner¡¯s. After a taste, he immediately turned his head towards the direction of the big shed.


    Then he saw the familiar figure of Qiao Xiaomai.


    ¡°Xiaomai, Xiaomai.¡± He pped his hands and started to giggle foolishly, standing up intending to go find Qiao Xiaomai.


    ¡°Hey, stop there!¡± Seeing this, Jiang¡¯s third daughter-inw hastily stopped him.


    She had purposely kept Jiang Zhuangzhuang from seeing Qiao Xiaomai for more than two months, expecting that he¡¯d forget her with his simple mind.


    Who would have thought that he¡¯d remember her as soon as he tasted the food!


    ¡°Xiaomai Xiaomai Xiaomai.¡± Jiang Zhuangzhuang was tall and strong, he ignored his mother¡¯s attempts to pull him back, walking towards Qiao Xiaomai on his own, giggling like a fool.


    ¡°Hey!¡± Jiang¡¯s third daughter-inw was anxious, beckoning her daughter-inw sitting nearby to help stop Jiang Zhuangzhuang.


    In a gathering like this, she couldn¡¯t let her foolish son run amok.


    But Jiang Zhuangzhuang was so tall and strong that not even three women could hold him back.


    He continued to giggle as he walked towards Qiao Xiaomai, even screaming out, ¡°Xiaomai Xiaomai I want to marry you.¡±


    This shout was so loud that the entire courtyard fell silent.


    Including Yang Ye and his group who were about to enter the courtyard..

 Chapter 259 - 259 Yang Ye Arrived

    Chapter 259: Yang Ye Arrived


    Trantor: 549690339


    Yang Ye looked at Tong Sang, who was standing next to him, with some surprise, ¡°Aren¡¯t you and Miss Qiao a couple?¡±


    Tong Sang shook his head firmly, ¡°No.¡±


    ¡°Oh my!¡± Yang Ye clicked his tongue twice, unfolded the fan in his hand with a whoosh, casually waved it a couple of times, and stepped into the courtyard.


    He brought many people, and arrivedte, so Tong Sang and his father and brothers had to go to the vige entrance to receive them.


    He strolled around like a tourist on his way, not expecting to hear someone proposing to Qiao Xiaomai as soon as he got off the carriage.


    He had to see who this public suitor was.


    When Yang Ye moved, those behind him also moved forward.


    Upon entering the courtyard and seeing the young man proposing to Qiao Xiaomai, a rare look of astonishment appeared on Yang Ye¡¯s handsome face.


    Jiang Zhuangzhuang was still stubbornly heading towards Qiao Xiaomai,pletely ignoring his mother and sisters-inw who were trying to pull him back, his mouth still calling out Xiaomai¡¯s name.


    Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s expression was indifferent. Seeing Yang Ye, she untied her apron and walked towards him.


    Of course, she purposely avoided Jiang Zhuangzhuang and took a detour around a few other tables.


    Tong Tiehu, who was standing under the eaves, also stepped forward, and the two of them approached Yang Ye together.


    Tong Tiehu greeted him with a smile, ¡°Master, this way please.¡±


    Yang Ye did not want to reveal his identity, so he had to use such a vague title.


    ¡°Dinner has been prepared,¡± said Qiao Xiaomai.


    Yang Ye raised an eyebrow, smiled and saluted Tong Tiehu, ignoring Jiang Zhuangzhuang, and walked in the direction indicated by Tong Tiehu.


    Seeing this, Tong Sang scanned the courtyard with his gaze, which finally fell on Jiang¡¯s third son.


    His face was stern, his gaze sharp.


    Jiang¡¯s third son was also looking this way, involuntarily shuddering when his gaze inadvertantly met Tong Sang¡¯s. He stood up and hurried towards Jiang Zhuangzhuang.


    He actually wanted to let Jiang Zhuangzhuang make a fuss, hoping to make Qiao Xiaomai the daughter-inw of the Jiang family.


    A money-making daughter-inw, it doesn¡¯t matter if her reputation isn¡¯t good.


    But now, it seemed as if Tong Sang had seen through his intentions; his gaze was as cold as arrows, one after another piercing him, making him dare not harbor any more thoughts. He hurried to pull Jiang Zhuangzhuang away.


    Seeing that the third son of Jiang¡¯s family had moved, Tong Sang also stepped into the hall.


    The room to the left of the hall had been freshly decorated, with bunches of fresh flowers and new tables and chairs; this would be the upper room for entertaining Yang Ye.


    Yang Ye stood by the table, smilingly congratted Tong Tiehu, and instructed his attendant to present his gift.


    Not just him, the head of the valley, the Feng Shui Master, and a dignified middle-aged man he had brought also presented their gifts.


    Tong Tiehu looked ttered as he gratefully thanked them.


    Yang Ye waved his hand dismissively, ¡°Elder, don¡¯t get caught up in these formalities,e,e, let¡¯s sit.¡±


    ¡°Uh¡­¡± Tong Tiehu hesitated.


    ¡°My great-grandfather was andlord, 1 understand the ways of the peasant household. Come,e, sit.¡± Yang Ye patted the spot next to him.


    Hearing this, Tong Tiehu no longer hesitated and walked over.


    ¡°Sang,e and sit.¡± Yang Ye called out to Tong Sang.


    Tong Sang did not refuse and sat down next to Tong Tiehu.


    ¡°You all can go about your tasks.¡± Seeing Tong Xingda, Tong¡¯s eldest son and second son were still standing, Yang Ye waved his hand, indicating that Qiao Xiaomai could serve the dishes.


    Qiao Xiaomai and several members of the Tong family left the room and headed to the kitchen to bring the prepared meals.


    Eight cold dishes, eight hot dishes, and two soups filled up the table..

 Chapter 260: What’s So Great About Feng Shui?

    Chapter 260: What¡¯s So Great About Feng Shui?


    Trantor: 549690339


    Yang Ye nced around with interest, his eyes brimming with clear joy. ¡°Not bad at all.¡±


    The tables and chairs were new, the bowls and chopsticks were fresh, and the food was different from the norm.


    Qiao Xiaomai really understood his taste; the spread of meals on the table was precisely to his liking.


    Usually, he feasted on a variety of expensive ingredients; seldom would he encounter dishes like pork offal, field snails, and loaches at his dining table.


    Moreover, whenever he attended banquets, the host would exhaust their minds to please him with rare and expensive parts of the meal.


    Such dishes full of rustic vors, tasted once in a while, he enjoyed!


    He smiled and turned to Qiao Xiaomai, ¡°Miss Qiao, won¡¯t you sit down and join us?¡±


    ¡°Your Highness, I still have preparations to make for the feast outside,¡± Qiao Xiaomai responded respectfully.


    Yang Ye regretfully shook his head, ¡°Go on then.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai agreed and exited the room with the members of the Tong Family.


    Once they had left, Yang Ye picked up his chopsticks, ¡°Come on, everyone, pick up your chopsticks. All this food is from Anping Vige, right?¡±


    He gestured towards the sauteed snails, loaches and fried small fish.


    ¡°Your Highness is correct, these were caught by Sang in the stream yesterday,¡± replied Tong Tiehu.


    ¡°The people of Anping Vige have good feng shui, so these local dishes are undoubtedly delicious,¡± Yang Ye spoke as he relished a fried fish.


    Seeing him begin to eat, others at the table also picked up their chopsticks and started to enjoy the food.


    ¡°Hmm, quite good. The feng shui is good, and so is Miss Qiao¡¯s cooking skills,¡± Yang Ye nodded, his expression reflecting deep satisfaction with his visit.


    Tong Tiehu chuckled and went on to exin Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s preparation process for each dish to Yang Ye.


    Yang Ye listened with rapt attention.


    The vige Chief listened with a satisfied expression, as he was merely here to indulge in a good meal.


    It would be a loss not to taste Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s culinary skills.


    The Feng Shui Master that Yang Ye brought along looked around fifty with a chubby figure, a wealthy smile on his face, and his hairbed neatly. He didn¡¯t look like a Feng Shui Master at all; he looked more like a wealthy merchant.


    His chopsticks repeatedly reached for the sliced pig¡¯s ears sd while praised the dish highly, ¡°The perfectbination of fat and lean, absolutely authentic.¡±


    ¡°Master Ma, did 1 exaggerate?¡± Yang Ye inquired lightly.


    ¡°There was no exaggeration, not at all. If all the meals were like this, I wouldn¡¯t mind staying in Anping Vige for a year or half,¡± Ma Dongshu spoke.


    ¡°All this just to examine the Feng Shui?¡± An austere middle-aged man asked.


    ¡°General Cen, you don¡¯t understand. Feng Shui is a profound science. Our predecessors thousands of years ago¡­¡±


    ¡°Enough, there¡¯s no need to recite your entire lineage,¡± Cen Hong interrupted Ma Dongshu, looking at Yang Ye with a puzzled expression, ¡°Your Highness, even if the Feng Shui of the vige is good, what then?¡±


    It was just a small vige after all; even if the Feng Shui was outstanding, would Yang Ye consider building a residence here?


    ¡°Establish a residence, of course,¡± Yang Ye replied naturally, not at all put off as he savored a snail with a toothpick, ¡°Just for the culinary skills of Miss Qiao, I would be interested in living here for a while every year.¡±


    Cen Hong choked, his mouth twitching.


    He acknowledged that the food was delicious, but the notion of being willing to live in a small vige for it, he didn¡¯t believe it.


    If he genuinely liked ¡®Miss Qiao¡¯s¡¯ cooking skills, bringing her back to the Wang Residence would be enough. There was no need to go to the great lengths of inviting Ma Dongshu.


    This Prince Wei must have ulterior motives.


    As he pondered, suddenly, amotion broke out outside, which was a woman¡¯s heart-piercing voice, ¡°Xiaomai, I know I was wrong, can you plead to the vige chief for me? I know 1 was wrong, please!¡±

 Chapter 261: Go Help Your Grandma Up

    Chapter 261: Go Help Your Grandma Up


    Trantor: 549690339


    Upon hearing this woman¡¯s voice, Tong Sang rose to his feet immediately. ¡°Your Highness, I¡¯m going out to take a look.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s happening?¡± Yang Yefeng shook fearfully.


    ¡°It¡¯s a long story.¡±


    ¡°Your Highness, allow me to go and see as well.¡± Tong Tiehu also stood up.


    In the whole of Anping Vige, only he could control the Sun Family.


    ¡°Go ahead, go ahead.¡± Seeing the grandfather and grandson pair looking grave, Yang Ye gestured dismissively. Though he too stood and took a few steps towards the window, intending to watch the scene.


    Outside, the cries of the Sun Family member continued. She knelt outside the shed, facing Xiaomai and tearfully beseeched, her wrinkled face streaked with tears.


    ¡°Xiaomai, 1 realize my mistake now. Please give me another chance. 1 won¡¯t dare again. I¡¯ll treat you well from now on, please give me one more chance!¡± Apanying her plea, she began to kowtow in Xiaomai¡¯s direction.


    The courtyard of the Tong Family was paved with green bricks. As she kowtowed, her forehead shing against the bricks filled the air with dull thuds.


    In a few moments, blood appeared on her forehead.


    Tears and mucus were everywhere, fresh blood on her forehead. This pitiful sight was more than enough to soften anyone¡¯s heart.


    Indeed, soften hearts.


    In the past, Sun Family hadmitted many horrific deeds, which had pushed Changsun¡¯s family to the brink of survival.


    Rummaging through their house and stealing their belongings like a bandit ¨C Only the Sun Family couldmit such acts in the vicinity of the neighbouring eight viges.


    Moreover, in order to curry favor with the Tong Family, Sun Family had even ndered Tong Sang. The very sight of Tong Sang being publicly humiliated to strip his trousers had pushed Anping vige¡¯s most outstanding young man to shame. He wished he could simply vanish into the earth.


    Was the Sun Family despicable?


    Despicable.


    Any sane person would find Sun Family¡¯s behavior reprehensible and loathsome.


    Therefore, when Sun Family was nearly beaten to death and driven out of the vige, no one came to her defense.


    Housing such people was indeed a stain on Anping Vige¡¯s reputation. It was an instance of one bad apple spoiling the bunch.


    However, now seems like the Sun Family has met its harsh fate.


    Driven to live in a grass shed in the fields, Sun Junyan¡¯s farnds were also upied by Qiao Changfu, Qiao Chang¡¯an, and Qiao Changkang.


    The mother and son were living a pitiful life in a hut amidst the vast wilderness, a sight nothing short of despair.


    Although people despised Sun Family¡¯s downfall, they did not hold much emotion other than that.


    But now it¡¯s different.


    Qiao Changshun owned hundreds of acres of fertilend, making him the richest man in Anping Vige.


    The man who was previously living in extreme poverty had shot up to be the richest in Anping Vige.


    For others to not feel envious or jealous would be a lie.


    Therefore, the current situation presented a pitiful Sun Family against Anping Vige¡¯s wealthiest.


    As the Sun Family wept a river of tears, the richest man maintained his calmposure.


    A tinge of sympathy, coupled with an undefined sense of jealousy toward the wealthy, led many present to side with the Sun Family.


    Sun Family, being Xiaomai¡¯s biological grandmother and Changshun¡¯s mother, hadmitted numerous mistakes in the past. Yet now, she had received her due punishment.


    Now she realised the error of her ways.


    Family, blood rtions ¨C Even if the County Magistrate were to break the ties, could he sever the bond of blood?


    He can¡¯t!


    That¡¯s why Xiaomai¡¯s behavior was too harsh. As the owner of vast fertilend, how could he just watch his grandmother live in a grass hut in the middle of a field?


    Even if there are grudges, can¡¯t a small concession be made like others?


    A small concession would be enough for Sun Family to livefortably.


    ¡°Xiaomai, go help your grandma up quickly.¡± Immediately, someone by the shed started speaking..

 Chapter 245: 245: The Young Man Under The Night Sky

    Chapter 245: 245: The Young Man Under The Night Sky<div>


    Trantor: 549690339


    The weather was hot, and the iron gate of the Tong Family was left open.@@novelbin@@


    Sitting on the doorstep facing the gate, Tong Sang noticed Qiao Xiaomai as she appeared.<div>


    ¡°Miss Qiao?¡± A look of surprise shed across his handsome face. He quickly put down his bowl and chopsticks and rose to his feet, making his way towards her.


    Upon seeing her, Tong Tiehu waved and said, ¡°Has Xiaomai had her meal yet?¡±


    The others, Tong Xingda, Zhang Family, Tong Eng, Zhu Hongyun, Qian Family, continued to eat as if they had not noticed Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s arrival.


    ¡°I have eaten.¡± Qiao Xiaomai replied with a smile and stepped into the Courtyard.


    She looked at Tong Sang approaching her and couldn¡¯t help but purse her lips.


    Even though it waste in the evening, she could still clearly see the tenderness that filled his gentle gaze. His face was handsome, and his figure was tall and slender.


    A seventeen-year-old in the modern world would merely be a high school student.


    But the Tong Sang in front of her didn¡¯t have the slightest bit of childishness. Apart from confessing his feelings, he was always stable and reliable.


    Stable, dependable.


    What valuable qualities for a man to possess.


    It was the first time she had seen him since their separation half a month ago.<div>


    With a faint smile on her face, she handed the basket in her hand to Tong Sang, ¡°Brother Sang, 1 came to ask about Grandfather Tong¡¯s birthday banquet. You said I was going to cook the feast, remember?¡±


    Tong Sang took the basket with a sh of surprise on his handsome face.


    Given Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s attitude towards him, he thought she would not be willing. So, he had already arranged with Shopkeeper He for the master chef from Jiwei Residence toe and cook the day after tomorrow.


    Unexpectedly, Qiao Xiaomai hade to ask about it herself¡­


    She regarded him as a dangerous creature, didn¡¯t she?


    Why¡­


    Qiao Xiaomai couldprehend the surprise on Tong Sang¡¯s handsome face. She rubbed her nose and said, ¡°A promise is a promise.¡±


    ¡°About that, I was nning to send Sang to talk to youter.¡± Tong Tiehu stood up, walking towards Qiao Xiaomai. ¡°Tomorrow, you and Sang can go to town to buy ingredients. Xiaomai, well entrust you with this.¡±


    Only he and Tong Sang knew about the arrangement with Shopkeeper He, and now he acted as if nothing had happened. Neither the Tong Family nor Qiao Xiaomai suspected anything.


    Upon hearing this, Qiao Xiaomai nodded her head and said, ¡°Okay.¡±


    ¡°At that time, I will find a few women to assist you. You just focus on cooking.¡± ¡°Okay,¡± Qiao Xiaomai nodded again with a smile.<div>


    ¡°Good, tomorrow morning, 1¡¯11 send Sang to fetch you.¡± Tong Tiehu concluded.


    ¡°Then Ill head back now.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s getting dark, let Sang apany you.¡± Tong Tiehu gestured towards the basket in Tong Sang¡¯s hands, ¡°Put these in the kitchen first.¡±


    Hesitating for a moment, Tong Sang obediently went to the kitchen.


    Then, he took the empty basket to escort Qiao Xiaomai home.


    It wasn¡¯t the first time he had walked Qiao Xiaomai home. Thest time she brought tofu over, he had quietly followed her, and in the end, she gave him a big piece of tofu as ¡®protection fee¡¯.


    Remembering that moment, Tong Sang couldn¡¯t help but sigh.


    Life was morefortable back then. After falling in love, he felt like he was in chains.


    Taking a deep breath in secret, he finally spoke, ¡°This isn¡¯t right.¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡± Qiao Xiaomai turned to look at him.


    ¡°We shouldn¡¯t be seeing each other any more.¡±<div>


    ¡°But I made a promise. A person should keep their word,¡± Qiao Xiaomai raised her eyebrow, ¡°Moreover, it¡¯s just a birthday banquet. It¡¯s not a big deal.¡± Could this possibly get her into trouble?

 Chapter 246: 246: Unexpected Encounter

    Chapter 246: 246: Unexpected Encounter<div>


    Trantor: 549690339


    Tong Sang¡±.. ¡±


    What¡¯s with this rxed and casual tone?<div>


    ¡°Did you buy the house in the town?¡± Not understanding Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s change in attitude, he was the one who changed the subject.


    ¡°I nned not to buy it for the moment.¡±


    ¡°Hmm?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m just a vige girl, I know nothing, Prince Wei will testify for me. No matter what kind of power, in front of the royal family, it shouldn¡¯t be able to jump.¡±


    Tong Sang¡±.. ¡±


    Did she include his Tong Family in this as well?


    ¡°It¡¯s better to go to the town.¡± He took a deep breath and opened his mouth, ¡°There¡¯s not much worth longing for in Anping Vige.¡±


    ¡°My father is still waiting for my mother toe back.¡±


    Tong Sang¡±.. ¡±


    He pursed his lips, ¡°This kind of matter should be decided by you.¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s wait until the harvest of wheat.¡± Qiao Xiaomai chuckled.<div>


    Hmm¡­.


    Now that she has decided to live on a time bomb, should she take the initiative to improve her rtionship with Yang Ye?


    After thestpetition, Yang Ye did note to see her.


    Considering the enthusiasm Yang Ye showed towards her cooking skills, this is a bit strange¡­


    The remaining journey was spent in silence between the two of them.


    Qiao Xiaomai wasn¡¯t really sure what she was thinking, but she could confirm two things. She didn¡¯t want to move from Anping Vige for the time being, and she wanted to keep her word.


    Since she had made up her mind, she naturally followed her feelings.


    ¡°By the way, Prince Wei mentionedst time that my father has 315 acres of farnd. How did this happen?¡±


    ¡°Your mother came to sell thend before, but thend deeds did not go to the county town for transfer, it¡¯s still under your father¡¯s name.¡± Tong Sang replied.


    ¡°Why?¡±


    ¡°You guys happened to live on top of those things, it¡¯s really miserable. My grandfather thought, when you can¡¯t hold on anymore, we¡¯ll return thend deeds to you, and give you a hand.¡±<div>


    Qiao Xiaomai¡±.. ¡±


    She pursed her lips and did not speak again.


    When she kept quiet, Tong Sang naturally didn¡¯t say more.


    The two of them silently walked to the door of the Qiao family, and Qiao Xiaomai waved at Tong Sang, ¡°Brother Tong San, thank you. Go home quickly.¡±


    Tong Sang replied with a grunt, leaving only the words, ¡°See you tomorrow,¡± and then turned and left.


    That night, Qiao Xiaomai, who was following her heart, had a good night¡¯s sleep.


    But Tong Sang was tossing and turning, not sleeping untilte at night.


    The next morning after breakfast, Qiao Xiaomai exined her household chores to the family, and then rode the ox-cart with Tong Sang to the town. The two were silent all the way, just likest night.


    Qiao Xiaomai didn¡¯t know what to say.


    Tong Sang didn¡¯t know what to say.


    The two people silently purchased the necessary spices, vegetables, poultry and fish for tomorrow. As for the pork, the Tong Family would kill a pig, so there was no need to buy it.<div>


    The ox-cart was quickly filled up. The two people then turned to Ji Wei Ju to ask Shopkeeper He if they could make tofu at the birthday banquet tomorrow. Shopkeeper Heughed and said, ¡°Why bother? How much tofu do you need tomorrow? I will have Yuan Ding deliver it for you.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai looked at Tong Sang.


    Tong Sang nodded, ¡°That sounds good too. Troubles to you, Shopkeeper He.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s no trouble.¡± Shopkeeper He waved his hand with a grin.@@novelbin@@


    Coming out of Ji Wei Ju, just as the two of them were about to return to Anping Vige, they bumped into Yang Ye, who hade to have lunch at Ji Wei Ju.


    Seeing Qiao Xiaomai and Tong Sang, Yang Ye, with a smile on his handsome face, opened the folding fan in his hand and walked over, ¡°Yo, what a coincidence.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai and Tong Sang hastily bowed and greeted him.


    ¡°No need for all these formalities. By the way, the Feng Shui Master I¡¯ve been looking for has arrived, and he is nning to visit Anping Vige in theing days.¡± said Yang Ye.


    Upon hearing this, Qiao Xiaomai turned to look at Tong Sang.


    Showing neither humility nor arrogance, Tong Sang said, ¡°My grandfather is going to have a birthday banquet tomorrow, and Qiao Xiaomai is the head chef. If Your Highness wouldn¡¯t mind, you can visit Anping Vige tomorrow.¡± ¡°Oh? Is it such a coincidence?¡±


    Yang Ye looked at Qiao Xiaomai, with his phoenix eyes curved into crescents, ¡°I will definitelye.¡±


    After tasting the food cooked by Qiao Xiaomai, eating anything else always felt like something was missing.


    Birthday banquet.


    This is something he absolutely cannot miss.


    ¡°Oh yes, are there any vacant houses in your vige? The Feng Shui Master wants to stay in the vige for a while.¡± he added..

 Chapter 247: The Young Man Who Took the Wrong Path

    Chapter 247: The Young Man Who Took the Wrong Path


    Trantor: 549690339


    The Feng Shui Master is staying in the vige for a while?


    Tong Sang¡¯s eyshes didn¡¯t even twitch, he replied, ¡°Yes. However, the vige conditions are simple, I¡¯m afraid it might inconvenience the Master.¡±


    ¡°No harm, I¡¯m a Feng Shui expert after all, I¡¯ve been everywhere, I can endure.¡± Yang Ye nonchntly flicked his fan, his gaze switched back to Qiao Xiaomai, his phoenix eyes shining brightly, ¡°Miss Qiao, His Highness looks forward to tomorrow-¡±


    With his handsome face, a slightly cute tone, he looked like a noble and elegant cat.


    ¡°Themoner girl will do her best.¡± Qiao Xiaomai bowed her head in respect.


    ¡°Good, see you tomorrow.¡± Yang Ye waved his hand and stepped into the Ji Weiju.


    d in a brocade robe, casually swinging a fan in his hand, his bearing was indescribably unrestrained.


    Qiao Xiaomai watched him ascend the stairs, then looked at Tong Sang beside her.


    That Feng Shui master would not onlye to observe but also stay in the vige, could the treasure underneath her home stay hidden?


    Tong Sang¡¯s expression remained calm, he walked a few steps to the bullock cart, ¡°Let¡¯s go, back to the vige.¡±


    He gestured for Qiao Xiaomai to climb onto the cart.


    The cart was full of things, with just enough space for one person. After Qiao Xiaomai sat down, he led the ox towards the outskirts of town.


    The two didn¡¯t speak on the way, as they approached the vige, Qiao Xiaomai finally couldn¡¯t help but ask, ¡°Aren¡¯t you worried?¡±


    ¡°Unless he directly digs up the ground, he won¡¯t find it.¡± Tong Sang¡¯s voice was exceptionally steady.


    Hearing this, Qiao Xiaomai, her gaze on his straight back, pursed her lips, ¡°What if?¡±


    ¡°Are you worrying about me?¡± Tong Sang countered without answering.


    Qiao Xiaomai blinked her peach blossom eyes, her gaze still on Tong Sang¡¯s back, as if it was only natural, ¡°You¡¯ve helped me so many times, 1 naturally hope you¡¯ll be alright.¡±


    I hope you¡¯ll be alright.


    As the words resonated, the corner of Tong Sang¡¯s mouth formed a small curve. So, Qiao Xiaomai doesn¡¯t really dislike him?


    Such a pleasant realization. @@novelbin@@


    Suppressing the urge to turn back, maintaining his calm tone, he said, ¡°Don¡¯t worry.¡±


    ¡°Really, it¡¯s fine?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s fine.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai fell silent.


    Tong Sang was so decisive, and his martial arts skills were formidable. If he said it was fine, it must indeed be fine, right¡­?


    Staring at Tong Sang¡¯s back, she bit her lip.


    The man before her eyes ¡ª he¡¯s only seventeen¡­


    At this splendid age, his martial arts were exceptional, and his actions dependable.


    Although there were tons of things to do in the world, he chose to do those sneaky, unspeakable things.


    A misguided youth indeed!


    Thinking of their shared moments since she met Tong Sang, she couldn¡¯t help but bite her lip harder.


    What should she do?


    She studied education in university, now she very much wanted to transform into a caring homeroom teacher and earnestly talk some sense into Tong Sang.


    ¡°Miss Qiao, shall we go straight to the new house?¡± Tong Sang suddenly spoke.


    Thisment pulled Qiao Xiaomai back from the sea of pity, she sighed quietly, ¡°Okay.¡±


    So, Tong Sang led the bullock cart towards the new house.


    The ¡°new house¡± Tong Sang referred to was the residence of Tong Dng and Tong Eng in the vige. The Tong Family hadn¡¯t split up, but since Tong Dng and Tong Eng had already reached adulthood, they each had their own houses in the vige.


    The Tong Family owned muchnd, Tong Tiehu, for the purpose of storing grain, had designated their houses to be in the same location, forming arge courtyard.


    The venue for tomorrow¡¯s birthday banquet would be in this courtyard.


    In the courtyard, Jiang Zhuangzhuang¡¯s father, Jiang Lao San, was ughtering a pig, with about a dozen other people bustling about..

 Chapter 248 - 248 Cut to the Hand

    Chapter 248: Cut to the Hand


    Trantor: 549690339


    The Jiang family had once proposed marriage to the Qiao family, and yet now, upon encountering each other, Qiao Xiaomai was not at all awkward.


    She herself was well off, her family had hundreds of acres of fertilend, and inside her heart, a youngd jovially brandished a sword about, so at this point, whether physically or emotionally, she felt quite fulfilled, with no additional energy left over to focus on the Jiang family.


    For Tong Tiehu¡¯s sixtieth birthday celebration, third brother of the Jiang family came over to ughter the pig, and she came to take charge of the kitchen. All was done out of a willingness to help.


    ¡°Third Brother, Xiaomai, you¡¯re back!¡±


    Tong Tiehu was also there. When he saw Qiao Xiaomai descend from the ox cart, he strode over to her, ¡°Have you eaten yet?¡±


    ¡°No.¡± Third Brother Tong replied.


    ¡°Great, your mom just prepared some pork dish, there¡¯s a small pot left over in the kitchen, go and have some,¡± Tong Tiehu pointed towards the kitchen.


    Third Brother Tong gave a grunt in acknowledgement, motioning Xiaomai towards the kitchen.


    In the kitchen, there was arge iron basin, the size of a face basin, filled with the pork dish that Mrs. Zhang had prepared.


    Mrs. Zhang¡¯s cooking skills were average, her pork dish was simple, just a big piece of pork belly and pickled vegetables stewed together. The inch thick pork belly was paired with the dark-green pickles, neither exuded any attractive lustre, suppressing one¡¯s appetite instead.


    But having food was what mattered. Qiao Xiaomai washed her hands, took the bowl and chopsticks handed over by Third Brother Tong, and scooped half a bowl of the pork dish. She grabbed a steamed bun, and sat down in front of the stove and began to eat.


    The moment the first mouthful of pork belly entered her mouth, she frowned, quickly covering her mouth with her hand.


    Third Brother Tong was also eating from his bowl at this point, and when the pickled vegetables entered his mouth, he also frowned, instinctively ncing at Qiao Xiaomai.


    Observing Xiaomai¡¯s reaction, he put the bowl down and stood up, ¡°1¡¯11 make something different.¡±


    The dish was overly sour and salty, because too much pickled vegetables and salt had been added.


    ¡°No need, I¡¯ll just eat this,¡± Qiao Xiaomai swallowed the chunk of meat in her mouth, hurriedly took a bite of the steamed bun, trying to suppress the odd taste.


    ¡°You don¡¯t have to force yourself.¡± Tong Sang decisively walked over and took the bowl she held, ¡°There are cucumbers that were just picked this morning, I¡¯ll make a cold cucumber sd, it¡¯ll be ready soon.¡±


    ¡°You can cook?¡± Qiao Xiaomai looked at him, somewhat surprised.


    ¡°Just some simple home-cooked dishes.¡±


    ¡°All, let me do it.¡± After her initial surprise, Qiao Xiaomai stood up.


    ¡°No need, just take a seat.¡± Tong Sang shook his head.


    That pork dish was prepared by his mom; if she found out that Xiaomai couldn¡¯t eat it and had to prepare something else specially, she was bound to scold him.


    Even though there¡¯s not much chance with Xiaomai, he didn¡¯t want his mom to say anything bad about her.


    However, Xiaomai knew nothing about his thoughts.


    Previously, Xiaomai felt sympathy, along with other emotions. Even if these feels were lessened now, they were still there, so she wanted to do something for Third Brother Tong.


    All she could do for Tong Tiehu, with her limited ability, was to cook for him.


    Thinking thus, she stood up, walked to the cutting board, took the kitchen knife, ¡°Let me do it, my cooking tastes better.¡±


    Tong Sang brought over the washed cucumbers and said, ¡°No, let me.¡± @@novelbin@@


    ¡°Oh it¡¯s just a few cucumbers, watch this, it¡¯ll be done in a minute.¡± Xiaomai attempted to take the cucumbers with her free left hand.


    ¡°Take a break, 1¡¯11 do it.¡± Tong Sang was persistent. He reached out to take the kitchen knife from her hand.


    ¡°I¡¯m not tired.¡± Xiaomai shook her head, an expression of determination on her small face, ¡°Hurry up, I¡¯m very hungry.¡±


    Tong Sang hesitated for a while, and then handed the cucumbers to her.


    She suddenly broke out into a smile, ¡°Just wait and see, it¡¯ll be ready soon.¡±


    Tong Sang didn¡¯t say anything. He stood beside her, his gaze fixed on her hand.


    Qiao Xiaomai felt his gaze and deliberately showed off.


    First, she took the kitchen knife and smacked the cucumbers a few times, then she began cutting them at an angle.


    She was really fast, her right hand that held the knife became a blur.


    ¡°Amazing,¡± Tong Sang readily gave her some praise.


    Qiao Xiaomai couldn¡¯t help but have a small smile on her face, her eyes also squinted in delight.


    Having cut two cucumbers, she picked up another two, again smashing them first, then cutting afterwards.


    She upped her speed just a tad more.


    ¡°Slow down, don¡¯t hurt your hand,¡± Tong Sang said as he watched her, slightly worried.


    ¡°It¡¯s fine, I¡­ Ah!!!¡± A sudden jolt of pain washed over her. The smile on Xiaomai¡¯s face quickly turned into an expression of pain. She quickly tossed the kitchen knife in her right hand away.


    Blood was seeping out from the middle finger of her left hand..

 Chapter 249: Kissing the Fingertips

    Chapter 249: Kissing the Fingertips


    Trantor: 549690339


    ¡°Let me see!¡± Tong Sang¡¯s gaze fell on her bleeding finger, his eyes dimmed with regret. Before the annoyance could spread in his heart, he had already taken hold of her left hand.


    The cut was quite deep, and blood was already dripping down.


    The sight of bright red blood against her fair finger was quite shocking.


    Without thinking, he lowered his head and caught her finger in his mouth.


    Qiao Xiaomai


    Her pair of peach blossom eyes widened in disbelief, staring at Tong Sang¡¯s handsome face that was so close to her.


    His eyshes were excessively long,plementing his perfectly sculpted features. From this angle, he looked so good it almost seemed unreal.


    While she was stunned, a warm and soft sensation gently licked her wound.


    !!!


    Her bodypletely stiffened, and her peach blossom eyes widened even more.


    What in the world was happening!


    The soft sensation licked her wound a few more times, then started sucking at it, and then licked it a few more times.


    Qiao Xiaomai¡±¡­¡±


    She felt a tickling sensation spreading rapidly from the wound to the rest of her body.


    And the warmth, softness, and heat it gave off seemed to seep into her flesh from the wound.


    Her blood was circting, and that indescribable sensation of warmth and softness was being rapidly transported throughout her body.


    Her body stiffened even more.


    ¡°Wait here, I¡¯ll go home and get some medicine for you, the cut¡¯s quite deep.¡± Tong Sang seemed unaware of Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s odd situation. After he finished licking the wound clean, he lifted his head and sternly reminded Qiao Xiaomai.


    Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s eyes were wide open.


    Her face was full of shock.


    Taking in her surprised expression, it was now Tong Sang¡¯s turn to freeze.


    He had just¡­


    Rushing to let go of her finger, he apologized, ¡°I¡¯m sorry, I shouldn¡¯t have done that.¡±


    His thin lips formed a straight line, and his handsome face was filled with regret. Damnit.


    He knew well that Qiao Xiaomai didn¡¯t like him, but he had done something so reckless.


    He was doomed.


    Now Qiao Xiaomai would probably like him even less. @@novelbin@@


    saw so much blood flowing out, so I subconsciously¡­ 1 didn¡¯t mean to take advantage of you¡­¡± He dropped his gaze, wishing fervently that he could turn back time.


    How could he have done something like that!


    ¡°It¡¯s okay, 1 know saliva can stop bleeding.¡± Seeing Tong Sang looking as if he wanted to bash his head against the wall in regret, Qiao Xiaomai raised an eyebrow.


    Actually¡­


    If this had happened in the past, if any man dared to do this, she would have kicked him out without hesitation.


    But just now, she froze and didn¡¯t even think of kicking him away.


    She thought back to the strange sensation earlier and gave a low chuckle. Well, she might as well just follow her heart¡¯s intuition.


    ¡°Uh¡­you can go home and get the medicine.¡± Her mind was a chaos, and she didn¡¯t know what else to say, so she followed up on what he was saying earlier.


    Her words were undeniably music to Tong Sang¡¯s ears.


    Immediately, his body un-stiffened.


    ¡°I¡¯ll be back right away.¡± He dropped these words and rushed out of the kitchen like a gust of wind.


    If it were night, he would surely be employing his light footwork by now.


    Qiao Xiaomai looked at the spot where he had just been standing, and a smile fluttered across her face, one that she herself wasn¡¯t aware of.


    She rolled her dark eyes, sighed, and looked down at her injured finger.


    ¡°Huh?¡±


    Her eyes widened again.


    Thinking that she might be seeing things, she hurriedly held her left hand up to inspect the wound.


    Afraid that saliva might have obscured the wound, she turned around, quietly took out a tissue from her pouch, and gently wiped the wound.


    Then she brought her left hand up to her eyes again.


    On the middle finger of her left hand, near the fingernail, the deep wound was already scabbing over!


    She wasn¡¯t misreading it, the wound was indeed scabbing over!


    Could Tong Sang¡¯s saliva be the equivalent of a miracle cure?


    (OoO)

 Chapter 250: It’s Worth It

    Chapter 250: It¡¯s Worth It


    Trantor: 549690339


    This fact was astonishing.


    And for some unknown reason, it made her feel slightly awkward.


    She had been injured before, but her healing speed was the same as normal people.


    So, was the reason rted to Dong Sang?


    Or perhaps, it was somehow rted to the Spiritual Spring in her space?


    Since the appearance of the Spiritual Spring, she hadn¡¯t been injured or bled.


    Without much hesitation, she picked up the kitchen knife again and gently made a slight cut on her left arm. @@novelbin@@


    Blood oozed out, so she turned and squatted down quietly, using some water from the Spiritual Spring to clean the small wound.


    No use.


    The blood was still flowing.


    She lowered her head again, sticking her tongue out to lick the wound.


    The blood was still flowing.


    However, saliva had the effect of stopping the blood, so when Dong Sang came back with the ointment, the bleeding stopped.


    But the wound hadn¡¯t started to scab.


    Eliminating the possibilities of the effects of the Spiritual Spring and saliva, there was only one possibility left.


    Thinking of this, she looked at Dong Sang.


    A smile blossomed on her lips, and she beckoned to Dong Sang, ¡°Come, lick it.¡±


    Having spoken, she raised her left arm to Dong Sang, pointing to the little wound with her right hand.


    Dong Sang¡±¡­¡±


    Hepletely froze.


    What was going on here?


    ¡°Don¡¯t freeze, lick it.¡± Upon seeing Dong Sang stand there nkly, Qiao Xiaomai urged him.


    ¡°Not, not okay?¡± Dong Sang recovered, he took a deep breath, trying his best to suppress his heart pounding like a drum, maintained a calm demeanor as much as he could, raising his hand to pull down Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s sleeve that she¡¯d rolled up. ¡°There are so many people outside, it¡¯s not okay to do this.¡±


    Luckily no one saw his reckless act just now, otherwise, there would definitely rumors flying around in the vige.


    ¡°Here, this ointment specially treats external injuries, smear some, then bind it with a silk cloth, it should heal within two to three days.¡± He spoke, taking out the small tin box of ointment and a piece of silk cloth from his bosom and handed it to Qiao Xiaomai.


    Qiao Xiaomai¡±¡­¡±


    She twitched the corners of her mouth, taking her now-scabbed wound in front of him, ¡°Your saliva is as effective as an immortal elixir, Dong Sange. I asked you to lick it for me to test this matter.¡±


    Dong Sang¡±¡­¡±


    He stared at that wound, his pupils contracted, his mind filled with shock.


    Seeing what he was thinking, Qiao Xiaomai hurriedly said, ¡°Don¡¯t imagine things, I¡¯m a mortal, I don¡¯t have such divine power, the main reason lies with you.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Dong Sang fell silent for a moment, ¡°I am also a mortal, I don¡¯t possess such divine power either.¡±


    ¡°Is that so? Then, you better lick this wound.¡± Qiao Xiaomai rolled up her sleeve again.


    Dong Sang stared at her fair skin and subconsciously swallowed his saliva.


    ¡°Hurry up.¡± Qiao Xiaomai urged again.


    ¡°There are people outside, let¡¯s wait till no one is around to, to try.¡± he stammered.


    That ¡®lick¡¯, it was really hard for him to utter.


    Upon hearing this, Qiao Xiaomai turned her head to look outside the door.


    The courtyard was bustling with peopleing and going, ughter the pig, steam the buns, pick the vegetables, it was a hive of activity.


    She reluctantly clicked her tongue twice, reluctantly saying, ¡°Fine.¡±


    ¡°You sit down quickly, I am going to cut some cucumbers.¡± Hearing her, Dong Sang quickly stuffed the ointment and the silk cloth back into his bosom and quickly stood in front of the cutting board.


    All kinds of emotions roared within him, nearly exploding his body!


    She was actually holding out her fair arm for him to lick!


    The blood in his body was going to surge back!


    It was worth it, regardless of what will happen in the future, that brief intimacy just now was enough for him to reminisce.


    It was enough.


    With that thought, he breathed out slowly, picking up the kitchen knife with his right hand.


    Yes, next he is going to cook for her, preferably the most delicious dish possible.


    What a wonderful day!

 Chapter 268: Irresistible Heartbeat

    Chapter 268: Irresistible Heartbeat


    Trantor: 549690339 I


    ¡°I¡¯ll kill the Sun Family.¡± Tong Sang repeated, ¡°Once she¡¯s dead, you won¡¯t have to worry anymore.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai looked into his pitch-ck eyes with her own wide open, realizing that he was serious. The corners of her eyes became hotter.


    An indescribable feeling was surging in her chest, rapidly spreading throughout her body.


    She sniffed, her voice hoarse, ¡°You better tend to my wound first.¡±


    Damn it, she bled too much. She felt dizzy from the shock.


    Upon hearing her words, Tong Sang leaned down to resume his task.


    As the water washed over the wound, Qiao Xiaomai took a shallow breath.


    It hurt, so bloody much it hurt.


    She subconsciously grasped the bedboard tightly.


    ¡°Does it hurt?¡± Seeing her in this state, Tong Sang wished he could take the pain for her.


    ¡°With you around, it¡¯s just a scratch.¡± Qiao Xiaomai looked at him, his face full of concern, and she managed to squeeze out a smile.


    Upon hearing her words, Tong Sang¡¯s lips became tighter.


    ¡°With you around.¡±


    These three words sounded like stonesnding heavily on him.


    He took a deep breath, put down the bowl of water, then leaned down to lick the gruesome wound with his tongue.


    The warmth and softness of his tongue was morefortable than the cool touch of the spring water. Qiao Xiaomai gripped the wooden board tightly and closed her eyes.


    Two clear tears slipped from the corners of her eyes, tracing down her temples.


    She always had four words for time-traveling: resistance, depression.


    ustomed to the modern world, there were too many things she wasn¡¯t used to in this broken ce.


    But she couldn¡¯t have imagined that in this rotten ce, she¡¯d meet a handsome youth like Tong Sang.


    She was stubborn, but he was equally as stubborn.


    Because of her, he¡¯d revealed his skills and picked a fight with Bai Zhi, causing him to be noticed by Yang Ye.


    Now, he¡¯d even faced off with General Cen Hong.


    If she was crazy, he ¨C a sneaky, secretive man ¨C was even crazier to follow her lead.


    She had Qiao Changshun and Qiao Dami to worry about, and he had a whole family to care for.


    Yet, for her, he¡¯s exposed himself like this.


    And now he¡¯s even nning to kill for her.


    She lifted her right hand, wiping away the tears from the corner of her eyes, then looked at him.


    He was attentively tending to her wound, his expression gentle, movements cautious, and a distinct vein of tenderness was present.


    Gazing at his handsome face so close to hers, the heat surged in her chest again.


    A tingling sensation spread throughout her body again, as if something flowed into her body through the wound.


    She closed her eyes again, silently savoring theforting feeling.


    After a while, Tong Sang finally looked up.


    As the wound was sorge, he was worried that it wouldn¡¯t heal, and thus he had spent a long time tending to it.


    ¡°How does it feel now?¡± He looked at Qiao Xiaomai, his handsome face noticeably pale.


    His heart was also beating rapidly. As he felt a difort in his chest, he lifted his hand to rub it.


    ¡°Much better.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai saw his pale face and was puzzled. Could her body really be draining his energy like a subus?


    She nced at the bloodstains on the corner of his mouth, licked her own lips, then retrieved a cup of spiritual spring water.


    The cup she used was the one she usually drank from.


    ¡°Have a drink.¡±


    The only useful thing she had was probably the spring water.


    Tong Sang took the cup, an object obviously not belonging to this world, with a calm expression.


    The sweetness of the water filled his body as it smoothed down his throat, alleviating his difort in his chest.


    The taste of blood in his mouth also significantly faded.


    He finished the whole cup in one go, then handed the cup back to Qiao Xiaomai.


    ¡°Do you want more?¡± Qiao Xiaomai asked.


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    As his words fell, Qiao Xiaomai touched the cup, and the initially empty cup was instantly filled with clear water.


    Without asking any questions, he brought the cup to his lips and finished it in one breath..

 Chapter 269: 269: Don’t Dirty Your Hands

    Chapter 269: 269: Don¡¯t Dirty Your Hands<div>


    Trantor: 549690339 |


    After consuming two cups of water, Tong Sang¡¯splexion returned to normal and his difort disappeared.


    Qiao Xiaomai, who has been closely watching him, let out a sigh of relief upon seeing this.<div>


    Tong Sang was unaware of Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s thoughts. He returned the cup to Qiao Xiaomai and looked down at the wound on her thigh.


    The bleeding had stopped and in the short time it took to finish two cups of water, the gruesome-looking wound had already scabbed over and the split skin had healed.


    He breathed a sigh of relief, ¡°Does it still hurt?¡±


    ¡°Nope.¡± Qiao Xiaomai shook her head.


    ¡°I will put a dressing on it for you. You need to put on a show for the next few days.¡± he said as he stood up and went to look for the first aid kit once more.


    Unlike just now, his actions were much calmer this time.


    Qiao Xiaomai watched his broad back, she too filled a cup with water and sipped at it slowly.


    Naturally, she avoided the spot where Tong Sang had drunk from.


    Tong Sang returned swiftly with a clean piece of silk cloth. Seeing Qiao Xiaomai sipping water from the cup, he somewhat awkwardly touched his nose.


    He bent down and, knowing the wound was no longer painful, consciously lightened his touch when he saw the long scab.


    Looking at his side profile, Qiao Xiaomai asked suddenly, ¡°Did you want to kill the Sun Family matron for trying to pull down your pants in public?¡±<div>


    Tong Sang froze at her words, his hands momentarily paused.


    The incident was so awkward that even now he wished he could hide his face with a cloth.


    ¡°No.¡± He tried to maintain a calm expression, not letting his embarrassment show.


    ¡°Why not?¡± Qiao Xiaomai pressed.


    ¡°At the time, 1 wished I could kill her with a single strike, but after calming down, 1 realized her crime wasn¡¯t deserving of death.¡± Tong Sang answered honestly.


    ¡°Have you ever killed anyone?¡± Qiao Xiaomai asked again.


    ¡°No. Although I am the young master of Tingfeng Pavilion, 1 only took up this position this year and haven¡¯t been out on a mission yet.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai, upon hearing this, put her cup back and her small face broke into a soft smile, ¡°Then you don¡¯t have to kill the Sun matron either.¡±


    Tong Sang nced at her, ¡°What if the emperor and soldier Cen Hong behave in the same way? It¡¯s better to eliminate her, to remove the threat.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t dirty your hands for her lowly life.¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s not worth it.¡±<div>


    Upon his words, Tong Sang couldn¡¯t help but look at her again.


    She gazed back at him with her clear, sparkling eyes. The area around her eyes was slightly reddish.


    He bent his head down again, ¡°1 sincerely wish to do something for you.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re already helping.¡±


    Instead of letting Tong Sang kill, she would rather put up with the repugnant Sun matron temporarily.


    How could she bear to let such a youth dip his hands in fresh blood?


    ¡°Listen to me. The Sun matron has been brazen and arrogant for decades. If she dies too easily, it¡¯ll be too merciful. I want her to live, to continue living painfully. That¡¯s the only way I¡¯ll feel better, understand?¡±


    Tong Sang remained silent, he carefully bandaged her wound, smearing the surrounding blood on the silk cloth, staining it with blotches of blood.


    This wouldn¡¯t arouse any suspicion.


    ¡°Have you remembered what I said?¡± Qiao Xiaomai asked, knitted her brows slightly.


    Tong Sang sat down on the small bed, ¡°You despise her greatly.¡±<div>


    ¡°That¡¯s why I will torment her every day. It¡¯s too merciful to let her die easily.¡± Qiao Xiaomai said, reached out to grasp Tong Sang¡¯s shoulder, and with a stern face and direct gaze, she earnestly urged, ¡°You mustn¡¯t kill her, understand?¡±


    Tong Sang met her gaze, his countenance calm, ¡°I don¡¯t mind.¡±


    ¡°But it matters to me. Tormenting her is the joy of my life. You must not deprive me of that joy.¡± Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s small face turned angry deliberately.


    ¡°So, how do you n to torture her?¡±


    ¡°Whatever she cares about most, I will trample on that. Such as Sun Junyan..¡±

 Chapter 253: Spitting Saliva

    Chapter 253: Spitting Saliva


    Trantor: 549690339


    Upon hearing this, Qiao Xiaomai took the oilmp from his hand, then handed him the small knife she was holding.


    He took the knife and made a cut on his left arm.


    The wound was as deep as Xiaomai¡¯s, and blood seeped out.


    He bent down to lick his wound, just as he had done for Xiaomai.


    ¡°Alright, just wait.¡± He raised his head after licking the wound and subconsciously looked at Xiaomai, who was standing opposite him.


    Xiaomai was watching him closely.


    Her peony-shaped eyes were shimmering, never blinking as they stared at him.


    He felt a sudden jolt in his chest as if he had been hit by something, which made him halt his breath.


    His lips pressed into a line, his gaze dropped quickly.


    Xiaomai in front of him was distractingly beautiful.


    Seeing him like this, Xiaomai also felt somewhat ill at ease.


    She coughed twice, raising the oilmp to her own arm.


    ¡°Huh?¡± Her eyes widened in surprise.


    Upon hearing her voice, he immediately looked over.


    The wound that was just bleeding and peeling had now formed a scab.


    The vivid red of the scab against her pale skin somehow reminded him of red plum blossoms blooming in a snowy field in winter.


    What an odd thought.


    He pursed his lips, hurriedly gathering his scattered thoughts, and looked down at his own arm.


    It was still bleeding.


    He had just licked the blood clean from the wound, but now more blood was seeping out.


    ¡°Huh? Your wound hasn¡¯t healed yet.¡± Xiaomai also looked over, surprise shing across her face as she saw he was still bleeding.


    ¡°Why does your saliva doesn¡¯t work on your wound?¡±


    He stayed silent.


    Since childhood, he had experienced many injuries due to martial arts practice, but his wounds always healed at a normal pace, he never experienced such instant scabbing before.


    The one with the Divine Power was Xiaomai, not him.


    ¡°Your saliva doesn¡¯t work on your wounds, but it does on mine. Um¡­ Should I lick your wound for you? Maybe my saliva will work on your wound?¡± Xiaomai thought for a moment, and proposed her theory.


    May 1 lick it for you?


    Those five words made him instantly stiffen.


    He held his breath. His dark eyes widened incredulously as he stared at Xiaomai.


    ¡°Come on.¡± Xiaomai motioned him to extend his arm towards her.


    ¡°No need.¡± He snapped back to reality and quickly retreated two steps back, ¡°Blood taste is terrible.¡±


    ¡°But you swallowed it anyway.¡±


    ¡°I am a man, it doesn¡¯t matter to me. But you, being ady, it¡¯s not proper.¡± He hesitated for a moment, then put the small knife back between his legs. He took a handkerchief from his pocket and wiped the blood clean from the wound. Then, he lifted his arm up to Xiaomai, ¡°You¡­just spit on the wound.¡±


    If Xiaomai actually acted on her words, he felt that he would surely blush to his core!


    ¡°You want me to spit on your wound? That¡¯s distasteful.¡± Xiaomai frowned.


    ¡°Um¡­ I haven¡¯t bathed in more than ten days, I¡¯m dirty.¡± His mind quickly spun for another excuse. @@novelbin@@


    Xiaomai¡±¡­¡±


    His clothes always carried the scent of soapberries, so did his hair!


    How could he have not bathed in over ten days!


    ¡°Really, just spit on it.¡± He said and stretched his arm forward once again towards Xiaomai.


    Xiaomai¡±¡­¡±


    Her mouth twitched and she reluctantly spat on his wound.


    He spread the saliva evenly around the wound with his fingers.


    Xiaomai¡±¡­¡±


    So strange¡­


    She had really just spat on it.

 Chapter 271: Another Perspective

    Chapter 271: Another Perspective


    Trantor: 549690339 |


    Today she antagonized herself, and she was aware that this matter would be catastrophic for Cen Hongping.


    But as for Emperor Yongan, she really had no ns, only four words: Leave it to destiny.


    Yang Ye shook his head and said, ¡°It wouldn¡¯t go as far as amending the Daqi Law, but besidesw, there is also human sentiment. Laws are rigid, people are not. The Daqi Law doesn¡¯t explicitly rte to disownment, but it doesn¡¯t forbid it either.¡±


    ¡°This is a loophole, considering Sun family¡¯s past actions, I think the emperor will stand by your side.¡±


    The Daqi Law is not perfect, it hasn¡¯t explicitly prohibited disowning, so how this case is going to be decided, depends on the attitude of Emperor Yongan.


    Hearing this, Qiao Xiaomai blinked her eyes. So this matter could also be interpreted from this angle?


    ¡°The emperor is reasonable and understanding, he won¡¯t be as straightforward as General Cen. Miss Qiao, you can rest assured.¡±


    ¡°What about Mr. Cen?¡± asked Qiao Xiaomai.


    ¡°He has returned to Huai¡¯an County. His visit here was mainly to inspect the military affairs of Huai¡¯an County.¡± Seeing Qiao Xiaomai frown, Yang Ye quickly reassured, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, he can¡¯t avoid this matter, just let him be pleased for a few more days.¡±


    ¡°Thank you, Your Highness,¡± said Qiao Xiaomai sincerely.


    Yang Ye waved his hand, ¡°He is someone I brought in, I should be the one to feel sorry.¡±


    ¡°I wouldn¡¯t dare.¡± Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s little face instantly revealed a look of genuine fear and apprehension.


    ¡°Enough, enough.¡± Yang Ye clicked his tongue.


    With such a spirit, what would she dare not to do?


    Everybody was saying it at the time, anyone would do the same, ¡®anyone¡¯ was inclusive of even his emperor father.


    Had these words been uttered by anyone else, he would definitely have been furious. But because it was Qiao Xiaomai¡­


    The situation at the time was self evident, well, let¡¯s just forget it.


    ¡°I will send some medicinal materials for you to recuperate. Just wait for news from my father.¡± Once he made his mind, he addressed himself as ¡®me¡¯ again.


    ¡°Thank you, Your Highness.¡± Qiao Xiaomai thanked him again.


    Yang Ye gestured with his hand, recalling the delectable dishes at Tong Family¡¯s table, he couldn¡¯t help but sigh.


    After such an incident, he was embarrassed to return and slowly savor the meal.


    Those delicious fried field snails and loach, what a pity!


    Damn Cen Hongping, this matter is not over yet!


    Yang Ye gritted his teeth and looked at Qiao Xiaomai, ¡°You take care and recuperate, Sang, take good care of Miss Qiao, I will go back to town first.¡±


    This matter ¨C he must write a detailed ten-thousand-word memorandum and present it to his emperor father!


    After Yang Ye left, everyone in the roomforted Qiao Xiaomai for a while. Doctor Wu prescribed medicine, then Tong Sang carried Qiao Xiaomai out of Doctor Wu¡¯s house.


    Only then did Qiao Changshun hobble over.


    He looked at Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s weak face, his eyes getting moist.


    He never thought that Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s hatred and disgust for Sun¡¯s family would reach this point, preferring to die rather than acknowledging her as her grandmother.


    However, he was previously thinking of asking her to plead for Sun¡¯s family.


    He was wrong.


    His previous thoughts were too naive.


    He had failed his own daughter.


    ¡°Dad, I¡¯m fine.¡± Seeing Qiao Changshun about to burst into tears, Qiao Xiaomai secretly rolled her eyes.


    She might feel guilty and remorseful if Qiao Dami cried, but she had tofort Qiao Changshun ¨C a grown man?


    ¡°Changshun Uncle, Miss Qiao is fine. I¡¯ll take her home now. You and Dami can follow at your own pace, don¡¯t rush.¡± Tong Sang spoke.


    Qiao Xiaomai needed ¡°rest¡±.


    ¡°You quickly take her home.¡± Qiao Changshun wiped his eyes with his hand and quickly nodded.


    So, Tong Sang carried Qiao Xiaomai and using his lightness skill went straight back to the Qiao Family house. Since he had already disyed it in front of everyone, there was no need to hide it anymore..

 Chapter 255 - 255 She Didn’t Do It On Purpose

    Chapter 255: She Didn¡¯t Do It On Purpose


    Trantor: 549690339


    Xiaomai¡¯s face turned green.


    Really green.


    She had actually done such a scandalous thing unconsciously, oh my god!


    What should she do?


    What should she do now!


    How is she going to face Tong Sang tomorrow?


    How can she look into his calm eyes?


    What would he think of her?


    Will he think she is purposely trying to provoke and tease him?


    No, no!


    By the heavens, she didn¡¯t. She could swear with her space and superpower, she definitely didn¡¯t mean to provoke and toy with him even a little bit!


    Definitely! Not! At! All!


    But¡­


    If she didn¡¯t, why would she behave so seductively and ambiguously?


    You lick mine fast.


    I¡¯ll lick yours.


    Damn, damn, damn!


    Her brain must have been kicked by a donkey to utter such provocative words.


    She was kicked by a donkey, she must have been!


    ¡°Xiaomai, what are you standing there for?¡± Qiao Changshun saw Xiaomai standing still all of a sudden, and couldn¡¯t help but ask curiously.


    ¡°Nothing.¡± Xiaomai squeezed out two words through her teeth.


    She took a deep breath and walked into the kitchen.


    Damn, damn, damn!


    How is she going to face Tong Sang tomorrow!


    Her heart was crying out, but time couldn¡¯t be stopped. The night passed quickly, and it was morning.


    She, who hadn¡¯t slept much all night, got up listlessly. To wake herself up, she quietly brewed a cup of coffee.


    The coffee brewed with Spiritual Spring water tasted good. After drinking it, she felt much more energetic. @@novelbin@@


    But being energetic couldn¡¯t make up for the pallor on her face. After staring at her face in the mirror for a while, she decided to apply some light makeup.


    Moreover, she didn¡¯t know if it was an illusion, but she felt that the taste of the Spiritual Spring water was getting better.


    The evolution of the Spiritual Spring water has been pretty fast recently!


    After breakfast, she asked Qiao Changshun and Qiao Dami to go to the Tong Family¡¯s new house for the birthday banquet at noon, and then she went to the Tong Family¡¯s new house.


    At this time, the sound of gongs and drums wasing from the wheat field in the vige: the troupe invited by the Tong family has arrived.


    For a 60th birthday, it was natural to have a lively opera performance.


    But it was wheat harvest season, so not many people went to watch the opera.


    When she got to the new house, quite a few people were busy in the courtyard. The Tong family were all dressed in new clothes, and Tong Dng¡¯s family had also returned.


    However, Tong Sang¡¯s figure was not in the courtyard, and she couldn¡¯t help but breathe a sigh of relief.


    When Tong Tiehu, who was full of vigor, saw hering, he called her over and introduced her to Tong Dng¡¯s family.


    Tong Dng¡¯s family ran a vinegar shop and seldom returned to the vige except for during festivals. In her previous life, she had a very vague impression of this family.


    But this family seemed to be much easier to get along with than Tong Eng¡¯s couple, and they all looked very simple and honest.


    ¡°Okay, you can go prepare the food now.¡± Tong Tiehu pointed in the direction of the well.


    Yesterday, people had built a shed by the well as a kitchen, and four or five women were busy inside at the moment.


    Xiaomai responded and quickly walked over there.


    Braised pork, pork knuckles, glutinous rice, ribs, crispy pork, all needed to be steamed first.


    With so many people watching, she couldn¡¯t rece the cooking water with Spiritual Spring water and could only sneakily add a little bit. However, her cooking skills were more than enough for a country banquet.


    After finishing the work at the big stove area, she went into the kitchen to prepare food for Yang Ye.


    It was not yet noon, and she decided to prepare the cold dishes first.


    ¡°Little Xiaomai.¡± Tong Tiehu entered the kitchen, and Tong Sang stood behind him, carrying arge wooden box on his shoulder.


    Upon seeing him, Xiaomai was taken aback for a moment. Seeing his handsome face as calm as ever, she suddenly felt a little flustered.


    And a little stifled.


    So stifled that she was finding it a little difficult to breathe.


    Tong Tiehu didn¡¯t know her thoughts, he pointed at Tong Sang and said, ¡°Look, Sang just brought back these new bowls and dishes from the county town, specifically for His Highness Prince Wei..¡±

 Chapter 273 - 273 A Little Heartbeat

    Chapter 273: A Little Heartbeat


    Trantor: 549690339 |


    But what was even more terrifying than this speed was obviously the final result.


    This was no joke.


    There¡¯s a nine out of ten chance that what Tong Sang was nning was a rebellion.


    As amoner, the biggest thing she ever encountered was fighting against some real burdens.


    Rebellion, that¡¯s too big of a matter.


    It was so big that her heart quivered at the mere thought of it, making her anxious.


    Therefore, she was currently conflicted by the situation.


    On one hand, the rationale was exerting all its might to hold her back, trying every means to stop her from madness.


    But on the other hand, her emotions were constantly tempting her with the waving fan.


    Behind the fan, stood Tong Sang.


    This was some extraordinary youth.


    She was a person who had been traumatized before, but now this young man was quietly hiding behind the emotional part of her, attracting her.


    There was no choice, owing a life-saving favor left a huge impact.


    When she fell from the second floor and was engulfed by fear, he appeared all of a sudden with strong and vigorous arms bolstering her copsing world.


    The shock he brought at that moment tore into her heart, and he broke in like that.


    And not just once.


    Later, when she faced Bai Zhi, he followed her silently, assisting her in acting arrogant and defiant.


    Having someone to help her in acting defiant and stepping on others felt too wonderful.


    Then she discovered something even more wonderful: He could heal her wounds with his saliva.


    This was as fantastical as time traveling.


    What did this indicate?


    What deep meaning was hidden?


    These unknown mysteries made her pay more attention to Tong Sang involuntarily.


    The more she noticed, the deeper she fell.


    He was skilled in martial arts, cooking, hunting, andboring, had a warm and reliable embrace, although it was wrong to propose a marriage to drag her into a risky n in the first ce, but isn¡¯t love supposed to be irrational?


    Wasn¡¯t his doing so just a disy of his affection for her?


    He stopped talking about it when he saw she was unwilling, only silently helping her.


    Look, this affection soon evolved into love.


    Affection has a bit of recklessness and selfishness, but love is all about thinking for her.


    For his sincerity, she forgave his impulsive proposal.


    People always do irrational things when they are impulsive, like her now, contemting whether she should take this risky path. How scary!


    Tong Sang was unaware of Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s inner struggle, thinking that she simply wanted to know more.


    He put the remaining candies into his pocket and continued his task at hand, saying, ¡°I don¡¯t know how the treasure was buried here. When my grandfather came here, the treasure was already here, and the secret tunnel in the mountain was already there.¡±


    ¡°As for the inside, it is like a three-story house buried underground, wrapped in an iron shell.¡±


    ¡°However, my grandfather and I haven¡¯t entered it for ten years.¡±


    ¡°Years ago, when Daqi was just established, there were few people, and there were a lot of natural disasters, themon people were living a hard life. My grandfather took out some silver and let Tingfeng Pavilion distribute aid.¡±


    ¡°Because almost all the silver was spent, only some gold and other items were left.¡±


    ¡°In recent years, the people of Daqi have been living stable lives, so my grandfather sealed the secret tunnel. It has not been opened for ten years.¡±


    By the time Tong Sang finished speaking, he had already prepared the batter for the egg pancake and sat down in front of the stove to light the fire.


    Qiao Xiaomai was somewhat stunned after hearing his words, ¡°Your grandfather, actually used all that silver to aid in disaster relief?¡±

 Chapter 274: Yes, That Treasure Belongs to My Family

    Chapter 274: Yes, That Treasure Belongs to My Family


    Trantor: 549690339 |


    ¡°Yeah.¡± Tong Sang nodded, lighting the fire and stuffing firewood into the stove, ¡°It¡¯s a tough life. In my great-grandmother¡¯s words, those silvers taken from the people should be used for the people.¡±


    ¡°Although my great-grandfather exined that these were the resources for future rebellion, my great-grandmother said there was plenty anyway, and when the silver ran out, there would still be gold. So, my grandfather handed out the silver for disaster relief.¡±


    ¡°Wait a second.¡± Upon hearing this, Qiao Xiaomai couldn¡¯t help but interrupt him, ¡°Are you saying, the treasure buried beneath my house, actually belongs to your family?¡±


    ¡°The brave man who stormed into the Imperial Pce of the previous dynasty, looted the National Treasury but was beaten out, was your great-grandfather?¡±


    ¡°Yes, I¡¯m sorry, I didn¡¯t exin clearlyst time.¡± Tong Sang showed his apology.


    By this point, there was no sense in hiding it from Qiao Xiaomai.


    He had said what he needed to say.


    Qiao Xiaomai gave a long, understanding ¡®Oh¡¯, the realization dawning on her face, ¡°It¡¯s okay, you did the right thing.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re not ming me?¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s there to me.¡± Xiaomai shook her head, quickly questioning again, ¡°Your great-grandmother was a real heroine!¡±


    Handing out silver for disaster relief, what kindness and courage!


    Upon hearing this, Tong Sang was silent for a moment before stuffing more firewood into the stove, standing up to start making egg pancakes.


    Seeing this, Qiao Xiaomai walked over to help him with the fire.


    She sat down by the stove, and then Tong Sang continued, ¡°Actually, strictly speaking, she wasn¡¯t my great-grandmother.¡±


    ¡°My great-grandfather was originally married and had a concubine, but after meeting her, he sent away his wife, concubine, legitimate children, and illegitimate children. The original wife of my great-grandfather, my true great-grandmother, was also sent away. My grandfather and Sixth-grandfather, being legitimate sons, were also sent away.¡±


    ¡°Later my great-grandfather revolted, and she followed him in his battles everywhere. When the army was defeated and surrounded, my great-grandfather had someone escort her away.¡±


    ¡°She arrived here first and then sent someone to bring my grandfather and Sixth-grandfather over. By the time they arrived, the treasure had already been buried and the secret tunnel in the mountain had beenpleted.¡±


    ¡°She passed on my great-grandfather¡¯sst words to my grandfather and Sixth-grandfather, and then devoted herself to nurturing Sixth-grandfather, ensuring his education, teaching him how to take the Imperial Examination and how to be an official.¡±


    ¡°Later, she died, not living long, only in her twenties.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai¡±¡­¡±


    This story, it¡¯s a bitplicated.


    ¡°So, I really don¡¯t know how the treasure was buried, nor how the three undergroundyers were built, I¡¯m sorry.¡± Tong Sang¡¯s hands didn¡¯t stop working as he showed an apologetic expression.


    He really wanted to rify Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s doubts, but he truly didn¡¯t know either.


    ¡°Alt¡­there¡¯s no need to apologize.¡± Xiaomai shook her head, her face bearing two words: astonished.


    She was so shocked that her mind was somewhat flooded.


    This is a lot of information; she needed to carefully organize it.


    After thinking for a while, she asked, ¡°So, your¡­the Tong family is nning a rebellion?¡±


    Let¡¯s put aside this mistress who ascended for now, she asked the key question first.


    ¡°The Yang family governs thisnd well, their rule is strong, so my grandfather is hesitant. However, my Sixth-grandfather is determined to cause a rebellion.¡±


    ¡°So how do you n to do it? Who is your Sixth-grandfather, what preparations has he made? This isn¡¯t a game!¡± Xiaomai quickly asked again.


    ¡°He¡­¡± Tong Sang¡¯s words trailed off, then he continued, ¡°Your dad and Dami are back, you better get back to bed.¡±


    ¡°Really!¡± Qiao Xiaomai pped her thigh in disappointment, quickly standing up and running towards her room.


    Being interrupted at this time, it felt like a cat scratching around in her heart!

 Chapter 275: Do You Still Call Me Miss Qiao?

    Chapter 275: Do You Still Call Me Miss Qiao?


    Trantor: 549690339 I


    Qiao Changshun and Qiao Dami returned and saw Tong Sang making a pancake in the kitchen. Qiao Changshun said hurriedly, ¡°Let me do it, let me do it.¡±


    ¡°Uncle Changshun, you should go check on Miss Qiao. Dami,e help me with the fire,¡± Tong Sang said.


    ¡°Right, I¡¯ll go check on Xiaomai.¡± Having heard this, Qiao Changshun quickly stepped into the hall.


    Qiao Xiaomai was lying on the bed, her eyes half-closed, and her face deathly pale.


    She had lost too much blood. Even drinking water from the Spiritual Spring couldn¡¯t replenish it, making her look genuinely frail.


    ¡°Xiaomai, 1 was wrong. Don¡¯t worry, I will never mention your grandmother in front of you again. 1 promise 1 won¡¯t,¡± Qiao Changshun sat by the bed, his eyes red and face filled with regret.


    Mother and daughter, he¡¯s decidedly choosing his daughter now.


    Qiao Xiaomai hmm¡¯d, her voice weak. Seeing the sweat on his forehead, she couldn¡¯t help but say, ¡°Dad, your leg must be hurting again, right?¡±


    Considering Qiao Changshun¡¯sme leg, he must have run back home.


    ¡°It¡¯s fine, it¡¯s fine.¡± Qiao Changshun shook his head dismissively and asked caringly, ¡°What would you like to eat? I can make it for you.¡±


    Once he finished speaking, without waiting for Xiaomai¡¯s response, he pped his thigh and said, ¡°I¡¯ll go and make you some medicine, starting with that. You lie down. If you need anything, just call me. I¡¯ll be outside.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai responded weakly again.


    She was truly weak now.


    More medicine¡­


    After a while, Tong Sang came in carrying a tray.


    On the tray was a te of egg pancakes, a bowl of Red Dates and Wolf berry Rice Porridge, and a te of stir-fried pig blood.


    Before she could ask, Tong Sang exined voluntarily, ¡°I went back home using my lightness skill and brought some blood-nourishing ingredients.¡±


    Hearing this, Qiao Xiaomai couldn¡¯t help but envy him.


    Having a lightness skill is really convenient.


    Tong Sang ced the tray on the table, ¡°My cooking skill is not very good, just make do with it.¡±


    ¡°If you made it, it¡¯s sure to be delicious.¡± Qiao Xiaomai sat up.


    Tong Sang smiled and handed her the chopsticks, ¡°Let me know if you need any help in theing days.¡±


    The wheat harvest is not yet over, Qiao Changshun is disable, and Qiao Dami is young; this family needs help.


    ¡°Don¡¯t they need you at home for the wheat harvest?¡±


    ¡°No, we are enough people at my home.¡±


    ¡°Thene to my home every day.¡±


    As Qiao Xiaomai fluttered her long eyshes, her small face was full of anticipation.


    ¡°Every day?¡± Tong Sang was slightly taken aback at the word.


    ¡°There¡¯s a lot of chores to do at my home.¡±


    Tong Sang paused and then grimaced, ¡°Miss Qiao, you¡­¡±


    Before he could finish his sentence, he was interrupted, ¡°Are you still going to call me Miss Qiao?¡±


    ¡°Alt?¡± Tong Sang furrowed his eyebrows, ¡°Miss Qiao, do you know what you¡¯re talking about?¡±


    ¡°I do. I know that your home is in danger, and that you aren¡¯t free to do what you wish.¡± Qiao Xiaomai pursed her lips, gazed directly at him, and lightly touched her chest, ¡°But here, I¡¯m not in control either.¡±


    ¡°You should have noticed by now that 1 can be quite stubborn, so much so that I don¡¯t even care about myself when I¡¯m mad.¡±


    ¡°I always follow what this [my heart] tells me.¡±


    ¡°Also, call me Xiaomai.¡±


    Tong Sang


    His eyebrows furrowed even more, in fact, his entire face seemed like it was crumpling. He looked like Qiao Changshun, showing an expression that made him look older than his seventeen years.


    After a while, he said, ¡°Even if¡­ you are a little infatuated, you should stay away from me.¡±


    How could she be this close to him while struggling? Normally, she would keep her distance until shees to a conclusion.


    This was not a joke.


    Her life and safety were at stake.


    And besides, what if she ends up retracting after getting so close?


    How will he, who¡¯s deeply entangled with the situation, handle it?


    If she doesn¡¯t retract¡­. then what about him?

 Chapter 276: What to Do?

    Chapter 276: What to Do?


    Trantor: 549690339 I


    He was willing to consider her feelings, even if he was sure to protect her fully¡­


    Being married to her, being together every day, it was a wonderful temptation. He pressed his lips together, and then spoke, ¡°You should think it over. Think carefully about all aspects of this issue. I will leave first.¡±


    Having said this, he turned around without hesitation, and left the room.


    Qiao Xiaomai¡±¡­¡±


    This whole act of thinking about her, was this supposed to win her over even more?


    If he really wanted to stop her, he should¡¯ve seduced her by encouraging her to join him on his notorious path!


    She clicked her tongue twice, sat back down and picked up a spoon to have a sip of porridge.


    At this moment, the voice of Tong Sang bidding farewell came from outside the window. Immediately after, Qiao Dami came running in, ¡°Sister, I am cooking chicken feed, call me if you need something!¡±


    He had stopped crying, but his little face was still flushed.


    Guilty, Qiao Xiaomai secretly fetched a piece of candy from her space, peeled it, and signaled Qiao Dami over.


    After stuffing the candy in his mouth, she asked in a bubbly manner, ¡°Tasty, isn¡¯t it?¡±


    Qiao Dami¡¯s eyes lit up, and he hurriedly nodded, ¡°It¡¯s delicious, it¡¯s delicious!¡± ¡°Don¡¯t tell dad, be a good boy, then I¡¯ll give you more in future.¡±


    Qiao Dami nodded again, then ran off with a cheerful smile.


    His sister was the same as always!


    Now Qiao Xiaomai was alone in the room, she started to have dinner.


    Tong Sang¡¯s cooking was not excellent, but she enjoyed it immensely.


    As she ate, she pondered the information she had just learned.


    Tong Sang and Tong Tiehu didn¡¯t want to rebel.


    But that so-called Sixth Uncle wanted to rebel, and had made some preparations.


    Since there were preparations, many people must have been brought on board. What if the Yang Family discovered it one day, and all of them were implicated and couldn¡¯t escape?


    In this regard, she agreed with Tong Sang and Tong Tiehu. The Yang


    Family¡¯s Mount Jiang was very stable; attempting to seize it would prove to be difficult.


    So, what to do?


    No matter if it was Tong Sang or Tong Tiehu, she didn¡¯t want them to be dragged into this.


    Both of them were innocent!


    Innocent!


    Innocent!


    She chewed heavily on the red dates in her mouth, and her brows furrowed. What if she secretly gathered up the Tong Family¡¯s treasure?


    The so-called strategy of ¡°first secure provisions and then raise an army,¡± if this batch of treasure was gone and the Tong Family lost their base fund for the rebellion, it couldn¡¯t take ce.


    At that time, would this rebellion that had been brewing for decades simply vanish into thin air?


    Thinking of this, she couldn¡¯t help but p her thigh, feeling as if a fire had been lit in her heart.


    What a great idea!


    Directly pull out the root cause, break off that absurd thought of Tong Liu!


    Without money, what will he use to rebel?


    However, where exactly was that secret tunnel?


    How to get into a secret tunnel that hadn¡¯t been opened for ten years?


    Perhaps next time, she should nudge Tong Sang to take her to take a look? Retracing Tong Sang¡¯s words in her mind, her excitement slowly subsided. Tong Sang said, there was a lot of treasure, too much to transport, they couldn¡¯t even find the means to move it if they wanted to.


    She did have a spatial ability, but her space was only the size of a football field. A football field, sounded veryrge, but was almost filled with things.


    The space was her source of security, and it was mainly filled with different kinds of food and other misceneous items. With food and other things, the space was almost cramped, leaving no room for the treasure.


    Unless she made a pit first, emptied the space to bury those things, otherwise the idea of secretly gathering the treasure was impracticable.


    What to do?

 Chapter 277 - 277 The Retired Emperor

    Chapter 277: The Retired Emperor


    Trantor: 549690339 |


    Qiao Xiaomai was puzzled for two days but still couldn¡¯t figure it out.


    And during these two days, Tong Sang never really came over.


    Qiao Changshun and Qiao Dami were both busy as tops, and she could only lie in bed and rest, frequently refusing Qiao Dami¡¯s efforts to change her medicine.


    Darning Pce, the Hall of Diligent Government.


    Emperor Yongan sat on the Dragon Throne with a serious expression. Three memorandumsy in front of him on the imperial desk.


    Two of them had just a few words, but the remaining one stretched longer than the desk itself.


    He rapped his fingers on the longest report, his brows furrowed deeply.


    After a moment of thought, he collected the three memorandums and summoned Fang Hai toe in, ¡°Go to Da¡¯an Pce.¡±


    In response, Fang Hai immediately ordered the preparation of the Dragon Carriage.


    Da¡¯an Pce was the residence of Emperor Emeritus Yang Wenxiao, who was now eighty-nine ¨C but still hale and hearty, with a lively spirit.


    His square face was quite dignified. Although now lined with wrinkles, his bright eyes revealed his youthful vigor.


    ¡°Father, I have a matter to discuss with you,¡± Emperor Yongan got straight to the point.


    He briefly summarized the content of the three memorandums, then asked, ¡°What do you think?¡±


    Gu Dean was stating facts.


    Yang Ye was lodging aint.


    Cen Hong was also lodging aint, using the Huai¡¯an County magistrate of passing random judgments, and Qiao Xiaomai, a vige girl, of disrespect towards the statew and the sovereign, requesting severe punishment.


    All three had their reasons, all linked to ¡°Daqi Law¡±, so he came to consult Yang Wenxiao.


    Yang Wenxiao held a ceramic bowl as pure as white jade, savoring soy milk. He loved this beverage. That¡¯s why the Imperial Kitchen hade up with many variations, creating different vors with a variety of ingredients. He was currently enjoying some Dami soy milk.


    Having heard Emperor Yongan¡¯s words, he leisurely finished hisst sip before sighing, ¡°Ah, Dami, no matter how much you eat, the one you¡¯ll always remember is the first.¡±


    Hearing this, Emperor Yongan paused for a moment, then a slight smile appeared on his stern face, ¡°1 hear from Yeye that this Qiao Xiaomai is an excellent cook. Why don¡¯t I summon her to the Capital City to take care of your meals?¡±


    ¡°No need. What¡¯s delicious is that bowl of rice.¡± Yang Wenxiao put down his little bowl and shifted his gaze to Emperor Yongan, ¡°Besides, the girl is too fiery. Cen Hong says that anyone else would be just the same.¡±


    ¡°What do you suggest?¡±


    ¡°For themon people, thew is their umbre. If now thew bes a boulder pressing down upon them, we can only remedy this wedw with humanity,¡± Yang Wenxiao said, reaching for another bowl of soy milk.


    This time, however, he didn¡¯t drink but just held it, quietly admiring its pristine color.


    A look of nostalgia appeared in his eyes, ¡°Without themon people, where would the emperore from?¡±


    ¡°But once we set this precedent, what if there are more such cases in the future?¡±


    They initially formted such a straightforward, one-size-fits-allw for the better control of themon people.


    Only when one was dutiful to family at home could they be loyal to their country outside.


    Furthermore, filial piety represented morality, andbining morality withw made this rule effective.


    ¡°But above filial piety, there are fairness and justice. The actions of the Sun Family have been too much. Are we supposed to force Qiao Xiaomai to death?¡±


    ¡°Hmmm¡­ what if in the future someone follows her example and defies imperial orders?¡±


    ¡°We analyze every case individually. If they want to die, then let them.¡± There was a trace of a cold smile on Yang Wenxiao¡¯s face.


    Threats?


    If they want to die, let them.


    ¡°Understood.¡± Emperor Yongan nodded.


    ¡°You¡­ give Yeye a secret edict. We¡¯re afraid the secret of Bailu Town can no longer be kept hidden. At a critical moment, let him step forward,¡± Yang Wenxiao instructed.


    Yang Ye was but an idle prince with no real power. He couldn¡¯t control the situation in a critical moment..

 Chapter 261: Go Help Your Grandma Up

    Chapter 261: Go Help Your Grandma Up


    Trantor: 549690339


    Upon hearing this woman¡¯s voice, Tong Sang rose to his feet immediately. ¡°Your Highness, I¡¯m going out to take a look.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s happening?¡± Yang Yefeng shook fearfully.


    ¡°It¡¯s a long story.¡±


    ¡°Your Highness, allow me to go and see as well.¡± Tong Tiehu also stood up.


    In the whole of Anping Vige, only he could control the Sun Family.


    ¡°Go ahead, go ahead.¡± Seeing the grandfather and grandson pair looking grave, Yang Ye gestured dismissively. Though he too stood and took a few steps towards the window, intending to watch the scene.


    Outside, the cries of the Sun Family member continued. She knelt outside the shed, facing Xiaomai and tearfully beseeched, her wrinkled face streaked with tears.


    ¡°Xiaomai, 1 realize my mistake now. Please give me another chance. 1 won¡¯t dare again. I¡¯ll treat you well from now on, please give me one more chance!¡± Apanying her plea, she began to kowtow in Xiaomai¡¯s direction.


    The courtyard of the Tong Family was paved with green bricks. As she kowtowed, her forehead shing against the bricks filled the air with dull thuds.


    In a few moments, blood appeared on her forehead.


    Tears and mucus were everywhere, fresh blood on her forehead. This pitiful sight was more than enough to soften anyone¡¯s heart.


    Indeed, soften hearts.


    In the past, Sun Family hadmitted many horrific deeds, which had pushed Changsun¡¯s family to the brink of survival.


    Rummaging through their house and stealing their belongings like a bandit ¨C Only the Sun Family couldmit such acts in the vicinity of the neighbouring eight viges.


    Moreover, in order to curry favor with the Tong Family, Sun Family had even ndered Tong Sang. The very sight of Tong Sang being publicly humiliated to strip his trousers had pushed Anping vige¡¯s most outstanding young man to shame. He wished he could simply vanish into the earth.


    Was the Sun Family despicable?


    Despicable.


    Any sane person would find Sun Family¡¯s behavior reprehensible and loathsome.


    Therefore, when Sun Family was nearly beaten to death and driven out of the vige, no one came to her defense.


    Housing such people was indeed a stain on Anping Vige¡¯s reputation. It was an instance of one bad apple spoiling the bunch.


    However, now seems like the Sun Family has met its harsh fate.


    Driven to live in a grass shed in the fields, Sun Junyan¡¯s farnds were also upied by Qiao Changfu, Qiao Chang¡¯an, and Qiao Changkang.


    The mother and son were living a pitiful life in a hut amidst the vast wilderness, a sight nothing short of despair.


    Although people despised Sun Family¡¯s downfall, they did not hold much emotion other than that.


    But now it¡¯s different.


    Qiao Changshun owned hundreds of acres of fertilend, making him the richest man in Anping Vige.


    The man who was previously living in extreme poverty had shot up to be the richest in Anping Vige.


    For others to not feel envious or jealous would be a lie.


    Therefore, the current situation presented a pitiful Sun Family against Anping Vige¡¯s wealthiest.


    As the Sun Family wept a river of tears, the richest man maintained his calmposure.


    A tinge of sympathy, coupled with an undefined sense of jealousy toward the wealthy, led many present to side with the Sun Family.


    Sun Family, being Xiaomai¡¯s biological grandmother and Changshun¡¯s mother, hadmitted numerous mistakes in the past. Yet now, she had received her due punishment.


    Now she realised the error of her ways.


    Family, blood rtions ¨C Even if the County Magistrate were to break the ties, could he sever the bond of blood? @@novelbin@@


    He can¡¯t!


    That¡¯s why Xiaomai¡¯s behavior was too harsh. As the owner of vast fertilend, how could he just watch his grandmother live in a grass hut in the middle of a field?


    Even if there are grudges, can¡¯t a small concession be made like others?


    A small concession would be enough for Sun Family to livefortably.


    ¡°Xiaomai, go help your grandma up quickly.¡± Immediately, someone by the shed started speaking..

 Chapter 279: Passing Notes

    Chapter 279: Passing Notes


    Trantor: 549690339 |


    Because of this imperial decree, Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s fondness for Emperor Yongan skyrocketed as if torn upwards by a rocket.


    She began to ponder earnestly the possibility of a preemptive strike at the root.


    If she could retrieve the ticking bomb hidden in the house, then the likelihood of Tong Li¡¯s rebellion would decrease significantly.


    But-


    Had young Tong Sang truly stopped visiting her?


    That¡¯s right, she had decided to convince Tong Sang to take her to check the secret tunnel. Yet for four or five days on end, there was no sign of him.


    She needed to recuperate and couldn¡¯t go out, but since she was noted as sick by Emperor Yongan, many vigers came to visit her. Among these visitors, Tong Sang was absent.


    When Gao Xiaomei came, she asked surreptitiously.


    Gao Xiaomei told her that Tong Sang had been busytely. Ma Dongshu had moved into Tong¡¯s new house and had been going into the mountains, with Tong Sang apanying him all the way.


    Upon hearing this, her heart involuntarily jerked.


    The mountains were where the secret tunnel was located. Yang Ye had invited this Ma Dongshu, could the secret tunnel still remain secret?


    As night fell, Qiao Xiaomaimanded Qiao Dami to fill half a basket with bean sprouts and put two pounds of dried tofu skin in and have Qiao Dami delivered them to the Tong Family.


    ¡°I wanted to thank you, Brother Tong, for carrying me home that day,¡± Qiao Xiaomai dered nobly, ¡°And also this.¡±


    She gave Qiao Dami a folded note and instructed, ¡°You must personally hand this to your Brother Tong. Do not let anyone else see it.¡±


    Qiao Dami nodded heavily.


    He had been so busytely that he had almost forgotten to express his gratitude!


    Carrying the basket, he ran off to the Tong¡¯s house.


    Along the way, many people greeted him. From elderly folks to children his age, all friendly.


    Upon reaching the Tong¡¯s, the family was having dinner. Except for Tong Dajie¡¯s family, everyone else was there.


    With the yard gate wide open, he greeted everyone first, then beckoned to Tong Sang, ¡°Brother Tong, this is from my sister. She thanks you for carrying her homest time!¡±


    Tong Sang epted the basket and tousled his hair, ¡°How is your sister?¡± ¡°All good now!¡± Qiao Dami stretched out his small hand to grab Tong Sang¡¯s empty left hand, secretly passed him the note, and made a yful blink.


    ¡°Brother Tong, do visit my sister when you¡¯re free- I am heading home! Goodbye, Grandfather Tong!¡±


    Having said this, he ran off in a puff of smoke.


    Tong Sang was momentarily taken aback. He did not follow, but gripped the note tightly in his hands.


    Pursing his lips, he turned to walk towards the kitchen.


    ¡°Wait, what did they send over?¡± Zhu Hongyun stopped him, craning her neck to peek into the basket.


    ¡°Bean sprouts, tofu skin.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s it?¡± Zhu Hongyun scoffed. Bean sprouts were two catties a copper, and while she hadn¡¯t eaten or heard of dried tofu skin, she believed it was not too pricey either.


    Seeing her intent, Tong Sang said solemnly, ¡°The tofu skin. Miss Qiao sells it to Zuixian Building for one tael silver per catty.¡±


    The contemptuous look on Zhu Hongyun¡¯s face froze, then she huffed, ¡°She caused a ruckus at grandfather¡¯s birthday banquet and all she sent were these? And only sent them days after the incident.¡±


    ¡°Shut your mouth, was the disturbance even caused by her?¡± Tong Tiehu scowled at her.


    ¡°She drew blood at your birthday banquet, grandfather. That was most inauspicious,¡± Tong Lanng chimed in.


    ¡°Are you genuinely concerned about this old man, or just taking the opportunity to pick on Xiaomai?¡± Tong Tiehu stared at him, his words sharp.


    Tong Lanng was flustered. ¡°Of course I am concerned about you, grandfather!¡± he hastily replied.


    ¡°No need to be, I am perfectly fine..¡±

 Chapter 280: How about proposing to the Qiao Family?

    Chapter 280: How about proposing to the Qiao Family?


    Trantor: 549690339


    Tong Er Lang stumbled over his words.


    Zhu Hongyun and Tong Sang put the basket in the kitchen, grumbling in a low voice, ¡°See, they deliberately left the basket behind when they came to deliver the goods. San Lang will definitely have to return itter. All this back and forth.¡±


    It sounded just like what Zhu Cuiying said at that time.


    This is how Qiao Xiaomai hooked up with people!


    Tong Tiehu red at her, ¡°You shut up.¡±


    ¡°Grandpa, I really don¡¯t understand, with the audacity of Xiaomai who dared to sever ties with her own grandmother, aren¡¯t you afraid she¡¯ll treat you the same in the future?¡± Zhu Hongyun said.


    ¡°She¡¯s more obedient in front of me than you two, you both stop worrying about it.¡± Tong Tiehu snorted.


    Zhu Hongyun was speechless at his words.


    She couldn¡¯t help cursing inwardly, what a brown-noser!


    She truly did not want Qiao Xiaomai to marry into the Tong Family.


    Before, she disliked Qiao Xiaomai because Zhu Cuiying talked about her too much. But now, she disliked her even more because Tong Tiehu sided with Qiao Xiaomai, and on top of that, Xiaomai owned silver and fields, and her temperament was so unruly that not even the Emperor could handle her.


    Who would like such a sister-inw?


    ¡°Grandfather, her politeness towards you is only temporary, just to get into our family, think about it. Now, she is still a vige girl with a little bit of silver, but once she really gets together with San Lang, she would be married into an official family.¡±


    ¡°She was so ruthless towards the Sun Family, when you are no longer useful to her, she will undoubtedly treat you the same way she treated the Sun Family.¡±


    Zhu Hongyun began to exin this reasoning to Tong Tiehu respectfully and gently.


    With her limited intelligence, she had no idea that Qiao Xiaomai had a good rtionship with Yang Ye and was made known to Emperor Yongan.


    ¡°Moreover, look at her family, her father isme and her mother ran away, she must have brought disaster upon them, this kind¡­¡±


    ¡°Shut up!¡± Tong Tiehu was truly furious this time.


    Iler words were bing more and more outrageous!


    ¡°Zhang, confine your daughter-inw in her room, she¡¯s not allowed to go out or deliver food tomorrow!¡± he ordered sternly.


    Zhang, who had kept silent, said hesitantly, ¡°Father, isn¡¯t that a bit too much¡­¡± ¡°How is it too much? She¡¯s preparing to spread rumors! Who did she learn this bad habit from?!¡± Tong Tiehu mmed his chopsticks down on the table.


    Everyone present gave a start,pletely ceasing their eating.


    Tong Xingda frowned at Zhang, scolding her, ¡°Go now!¡±


    Then, he shot a re at Zhu Hongyun, ¡°What business does a daughter-inw have meddling in Sang¡¯s marriage matters?!¡±


    Zhang didn¡¯t dare dy any longer, quickly standing up, escorting the stunned Zhu Hongyun towards their room.


    Tong Er Lang was also a little shocked, with Tong Tiehu even mming his chopsticks, it was too frightening!


    He shrank back, grabbed two steamed buns, picked up a te of vegetables in front of him, and ran to his room, thinking, ¡°I¡¯ve got to fill up tonight!¡±


    Tong Tiehu frowned even deeper at the sight.


    Tong Xingda gave Tong Sang a look, he picked up the chopsticks Tong Tiehu had thrown down and went to the kitchen to get him a new pair.


    Tong Xingda said with augh, ¡°Father, don¡¯t be angry, eat! Xiaomai is a good girl, why don¡¯t we propose a marriage in a few days?¡±


    Previously, he disliked her because she had an impolite attitude towards him.


    But now, the situation was different.


    Qiao Xiaomai had special status in Emperor Yongan¡¯s presence and had a good rtionship with Yang Ye.


    Having such a daughter-inw to cover for them, capable of earning money, would definitely be beneficial to their family¡¯s ambitious ns!


    Tong Tiehu looked at Tong Sang upon hearing this, ¡°The matter of Sang¡¯s marriage will be decided by Sang himself.¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s just a child, we can¡¯t let him make a mess of such an important matter in life. Look at Er Lang¡¯s wife, we absolutely can¡¯t repeat such a mistake. We should send for the matchmaker in the next few days to propose marriage to the Qiao Family.¡±


    ¡°San Lang is not getting any younger, we can¡¯t dy it any longer..¡±

 Chapter 281: Late Night Secret Meeting

    Chapter 281: Late Night Secret Meeting


    Trantor: 549690339 |


    ¡°I won¡¯t marry.¡± Seeing his father¡¯s words be increasingly absurd, Tong Sang voiced his opinion.


    Upon hearing this, Tong Tiehu silently sighed, ¡°As you wish.¡±


    However, Tong Xingda abruptly eximed, ¡°Father, do you think you could find another daughter-inw like Xiaomai?¡±


    Although they are rtives with the Prime Minister, the problem is that they are living under a pseudonym.


    This meant that Tong Sang could never marry a nobledy.


    So scrapping around amongst the vige girls, Xiaomai was the only choice.


    ¡°After the wheat harvest, when we have some leisure time, I¡¯ll take Sang outdoors for a walk. If we can¡¯t find someone suitable, then we¡¯ll consider Xiaomai.¡± Tong Tiehu said.


    On hearing this, Tong Xingdaughed, ¡°Exactly, let¡¯s eat.¡±


    The so-called ¡°going for a walk¡± meant going to the capital city to visit the Prime Minister.


    Indeed, once this matter is settled, his Sang would most likely be the heir.


    Sang¡¯s wife has to be epted by the Prime Minister.


    Knowing that his grandfather and father had reached an agreement, Tong Sang quietly chewed on his steamed bun.


    The strange words written on the note that Qiao Dami gave him were missing many strokes, yet he still understood them.


    Qiao Xiaomai wanted to meet him at the Qiao Family¡¯s courtyard at the time of the pig (9-11 pm).


    In the middle of the night, this¡­.


    His heart started to beat a little faster.


    There was a mysterious sense of anticipation.


    But within this anticipation, there was a trace of reluctance¡­


    Had she decided to give him the results of their deliberation?


    While being in a dilemma, when it was midnight, Anping Vige was in a profound silence. The vigers had long fallen into a deep sleep, he silently left his house. Using his light footwork, in the blink of an eye, he arrived at the Qiao Family¡¯s courtyard.


    There was a blurred figure in the courtyard. It was Qiao Xiaomai.


    Qiao Xiaomai was standing in the courtyard. Seeing Tong Sang arrive as promised, a smile immediately appeared on her face, and small dimples formed at the corners of her mouth.


    ¡°You¡¯re here!¡± She waved at Tong Sang, beckoning him to sit down.


    On the small table under the tree, there were several tesid out; each filled with food.


    They were all made by her: puff pastries, egg tarts, beef jerky, squid shreds, chicken feet, duck wings and two cups of hot milk tea.


    Tong Sang took advantage of the starlight to clearly see what was on the table. He was taken aback, what was going on?


    ¡°Try it.¡± Qiao Xiaomai introduced the food on the tes, of course, keeping her voice quite low.


    Tong Sang didn¡¯t understand her intentions but he nodded and tried each dish.


    The sweetness of the puff pastries, egg tarts and the spiciness of the beef jerky, squid shreds, chicken feet, and duck wings all surprised him.


    ¡°How is it?¡± Qiao Xiaomai asked him after he¡¯d tried everything.


    ¡°Very delicious.¡± He nodded honestly.


    ¡°If you want, you cane here and eat every night.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Tong Sang fell silent for a moment, then he asked, ¡°Did you call me here tonight just for me to eat this?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s only part of the reason.¡± All these were made by her hand; she wanted to share these delicacies with Tong Sang.


    ¡°The other part is, I wanted to ask you something.¡±


    ¡°What?¡±


    Staring at Tong Sang¡¯s handsome face, she bit her lip, took a deep breath and asked, ¡°What would happen if, 1 mean if, um¡­ the stuff underneath my house suddenly disappears?¡±


    Tong Sang¡¯s brow furrowed instinctively, recalling Xiaomai¡¯s ability: to materialize unseen things out of thin air.


    If she is asking this now, does it mean that she not only has the ability to make things appear out of thin air but also the ability to make things disappear?


    Savoring this reality slowly, Tong Sang said, ¡°The consequence would be brotherly discord. If those things disappear out of thin air, my sixth grandfather might suspect that my grandfather was the one who hid them..¡±

 Chapter 265:1 Spare Her Life

    Chapter 265:1 Spare Her Life


    Trantor: 549690339 |


    ¡°Your Highness, grievances of the people must be resolved.¡± Cen Hong stated bluntly.


    ¡°Whose grievance?¡± Yang Ye pointed his fan at Mrs. Sun who was slumped on the ground, ¡°Hers? This unmanageable woman, if it were up to me, I would have thrown her into prison to serve. Considering what Miss Qiao just said, isn¡¯t it enough to sever rtions?¡±


    ¡°In response to Your Highness, the ¡®Daqi Law¡¯ does not contain the provision to sever rtionships.¡±


    ¡°Hmph!¡± Upon hearing this, Yang Ye coldly chuckled, so Cen Hong dares to use ¡®Daqi Law¡¯ to oppose him.


    ¡°Outside the bounds ofw, humanity exists.¡± His handsome face bore a frosty veneer.


    Cen Hong, seemingly oblivious to his scowl, respectfully said, ¡°Regarding this matter, in my humble opinion, we should abide by the ¡®Daqi Law¡¯. Even though Mrs. Sun¡¯s actions are detestable, the grace of her raising them remains. Now that she knows her mistake, and considering the current circumstances of the Qiao Family.¡±


    ¡°Even from a perspective of emotions, Miss Qiao should not be so ruthless.¡±


    ¡°General Cen, if you walked in their shoes, would you want Mrs. Sun as your grandmother?¡± Yang Ye¡¯s phoenix eyes were filled with coldness.


    ¡°Your Highness, I do not have such a grandmother. Adjudications should not be based on such assumptions.¡± Cen Hong replied without yielding.


    Yang Ye¡¯s eyebrows knitted into a frown, his handsome face remaining expressionless.


    Cen Hong being a senior official of the first rank, and he, a rxed prince, although favored, was unable to prevent Cen Hong from using the ¡®Daqi Law¡¯ in the current situation.


    Cen Hong was one of his third brother¡¯s men. This time he had invited Ma Dongshu over, and Cen Hong had followed under the guise of inspecting Huai¡¯an County¡¯s military defense.


    Now, seeing him defend Qiao Xiaomai, he decided to confront him.


    Ultimately, Cen Hong was using Qiao Xiaomai to probe his intentions.


    Privately taking a breath, he was about to speak when the dean of the institute residing in a room came out.


    The dean¡¯s gaze swept over Cen Hong and Qiao Xiaomai, finally ncing at Mrs. Sun, he said with a furrowed brow, ¡°General Cen, you insist on thew while His Highness insists on humanpassion. If that¡¯s the case, we should let the Emperor Yongan decide.¡±


    ¡°I will write a petition now and send it to Capital City with utmost urgency.¡±


    ording to the provisions of the ¡®Daqi Law¡¯, unless the parents or grandparents murder their children or grandchildren, the government office will not intervene in regr cases.


    Moreover, the ¡®Daqi Law¡¯ indeed does not contain the provision to sever rtionships.


    If Cen Hong insists on using the ¡®Daqi Law¡¯ to handle the matter, then he has no other option but to present it to Emperor Yongan.


    Emperor Yongan ordered him to look after Qiao Xiaomai, this matter has exceeded his ability.


    ¡°What?!¡± Cen Hong became visibly taken aback upon hearing this, ¡°Such a trivial matter warrants the Emperor¡¯s attention?¡±


    He merely wanted to probe Yang Ye¡¯s intentions. For such a small matter, was it really necessary to involve Emperor Yongan?


    ¡°You argue for thew, His Highness argues for humanpassion, although the matter is small, once you and His Highness get involved, it is no longer a trifling matter.¡± The dean said and looked at Tong Sang who was standing by, ¡°Sang, bring me the writing brush, ink, paper, and ink b.¡±


    ¡°No need.¡± Qiao Xiaomai coldly said, ¡°For such a trivial matter, there is no need to involve the Emperor. Like I said, I, Qiao Xiaomai, do not acknowledge Mrs. Sun as my grandmother, no matter whoes, I will not recognize.¡±


    ¡°Mr. Cen, are you saying I have a life debt to repay? Then I will repay this life to Mrs. Sun right now.¡±


    At the end of her statement, she promptly rushed into the shed.


    She lifted the vegetable knife that wasid on the table, grasped it with both hands, hoisted it high, and savagely hacked at her own left thigh.


    A spray of blood sprayed upwards, rapidly soaking her clothes in red..@@novelbin@@

 Chapter 266: The Matter Won’t End Until She Dies

    Chapter 266: The Matter Won¡¯t End Until She Dies


    Trantor: 549690339 |


    ¡°Miss Qiao!¡±


    Tong Sang never expected Qiao Xiaomai to act like this. He eximed in surprise, and in a sh, appeared by Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s side.


    With one hand, he held up Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s swaying body, and with the other, he snatched the kitchen knife from her hand, his arm trembling, ¡°Miss Qiao¡­¡±


    He threw the knife to the ground, reached out to cover the bleeding wound, and shouted, ¡°Doctor Wu, Doctor Wu!¡±


    In such circumstances, Doctor Wu was naturally present as well, and happened to be sitting in the courtyard. @@novelbin@@


    Upon seeing this, he immediately said, ¡°Quick, quick, pick her up and take her to my house. Sang, you move fast, the door is locked, just kick it open.¡±


    Hearing this, Tong Sang bent down, intending to lift Qiao Xiaomai.


    But Qiao Xiaomai stood still, pushing away Tong Sang¡¯s arm with one hand. The excruciating pain made her face turn pale, but her eyes were fixed on Cen Hong, even a cold sneer hanging on her lips, ¡°Lord Cen, are you satisfied now?¡±


    ¡°The Sun Family caused my father to break his leg, drove my mother away from home, and over the years, they took away countless amounts of food and money from my home.¡±


    ¡°You want to settle the grievance for Sun s poisonous woman, then can you settle the grievance for me, Qiao Xiaomai?¡±


    These words were gritted out from between her teeth, the pain made her break out in a cold sweat, and the loss of blood made her feel dizzy.


    However, she stubbornly red at Cen Hong, conveying a message: if she didn¡¯t die today, this matter would not be over.


    But if she really died, this matter would still not be over.


    Cen Hong understood this message, his face quickly changing from iron-grey to pale.


    Sure enough, the next moment, Ma Dongshu¡¯s exmation sounded, ¡°Oh my, General Cen! You actually use your power to bully others and forcemon girls to death in public! I remember that the ¡®Daqi Laws¡¯ stiptes, that even if it is a high-ranking official, if they kill at will, they are to be punished!¡±


    ¡°Exactly, General Cen disregards nationalws and regtions by interfering in local affairs and forcing citizens to death, this matter, this Prince will promptly report to the Emperor.¡± Yang Ye said coldly.


    He never expected that Qiao Xiaomai would be so decisive.


    No, he should have anticipated this.


    Qiao Xiaomai dared to confront Bai Zhi directly, let alone Cen Hong.


    He couldn¡¯t help clenching the folding fan in his hand, whether it was Bai Zhi or Cen Hong, both were caused by him.


    ¡°Your Highness, we just came to celebrate a birthday, but it was inappropriate to see blood at the birthday banquet on Chief Tong¡¯s watch.¡± said Valley Chief with a sigh.


    ¡°Humph, the events of today, this Prince will report them truthfully to the Emperor.¡± Yang Ye¡¯s handsome face looked as hard as water. He shot a nce at Cen Hong, then looked at Tong Sang, and shouted, ¡°What are you still doing standing there? Hurry up and stop Miss Qiao¡¯s bleeding, if you dy any longer, she might really die!¡±


    As soon as his words fell, Tong Sang immediately bent down, picked up Qiao Xiaomai and rushed to Doctor Wu¡¯s house using his light skills.


    The short journey was covered in a blink of an eye. Hended directly in the courtyard, kicked open the room door, and ced Qiao Xiaomai on the small bed specifically for patients, then began to search for the ointment.


    Qiao Xiaomai was in so much pain that she wished she could pass out. She saw him rummaging around, so gritting her teeth, she took out a clean stic basin filled with Spiritual Spring water.


    ¡°Stop looking,e and clean my wound for me.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Tong Sang immediately turned around, caught sight of the white stic basin on the bed, his pupils shrunk and he quickly came over.


    Qiao Xiaomai, enduring the pain, instructed, ¡°Rinse off the blood, then you lick my wound.¡±


    At her words, Tong Sang froze.


    ¡°What are you standing there for? Hurry up!¡± she urged.


    At her words, Tong Sang felt a dryness in his mouth, ¡°Miss Qiao, your wound is on your thigh.¡±


    This was not an arm, but a thigh.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry about the details, hurry up!¡± Qiao Xiaomai stared at him, her eyes suddenly welling up with tears..

 Chapter 284: She Likes Me

    Chapter 284: She Likes Me


    Trantor: 549690339 I


    ¡°So, when will it all go down?¡± She struggled to speak, her throat tight.


    ¡°It¡¯s unclear. As you have seen, the current emperor is not a mediocre, helpless ruler. He is astute, hardworking, devoted to strengthening his rule, frugal, and loves his people. He has the military power of the Imperial Pce in Capital City firmly in his hands. Also, there are many top-level experts in the pce. An attempt to forcefully depose the emperor and kill him is not a viable path.¡±


    ¡°The other option is to seize the opportunity when there is a disaster and rebel, working our way from the local territories to Capital City.¡±


    ¡°If a war breaks out, this stash of treasure will undoubtedly be needed.¡±


    ¡°So, it¡¯s an indefinite wait.¡± With a sigh, Tong Sang concluded.


    Qiao Xiaomai¡±¡­¡±


    Damn, so this is like a sword always hanging over her head, an indefinite torment!


    ¡°Does the Prime Minister know about this treasure?¡± She ventured to ask.


    ¡°He doesn¡¯t. He sees Grandfather Liu as a country bumpkin who wed his way up from the bottom. While both families are in the same boat, they are not in harmony with each other, and their only goal is to topple the Yang family¡¯s reign over Mount Jiang.¡±


    ¡°Once the Yang family is overthrown, the two families will surely engage in a battle.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai¡±¡­¡±


    Damn, damn, damn.


    The Yang family¡¯s reign over Mount Jiang is currently as secure as an iron barrel. However, the Shen family and Liu Liu haven¡¯t even consolidated yet, and they are already indulging in internal strife.


    With this level of nning, it would be ludicrous if their rebellion seeded.


    The worry on her small face inevitably grew deeper, and her gaze at Tong Sang was full of resentment.


    A bitter smile appeared on Tong Sang¡¯s handsome face, ¡°You should live a peaceful life, not live each day on tenterhooks.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai¡±¡­¡±


    She silently gazed at the young man seated across from her, an indescribable frustration welled up in her heart.


    This damned reality!


    ¡°So, you¡¯ll remain single all this while?¡± After a lengthy silence, she asked.


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°Then I¡¯ll stay single for now too.¡±


    For now.


    The word ¡°for now¡± tightened Tong Sang¡¯s heart. What did she mean?


    ¡°I think, this won¡¯t continue indefinitely. Ma Dongshu has always been wandering on the mountain, hasn¡¯t he? Yang Ye invited him all the way over here; he must have some real skills. Although his skills may not match those of your great grandmother, he shouldn¡¯t be incapable of finding the treasure, right?¡±


    ¡°This won¡¯t drag on for too long.¡±


    ¡°So, you should consider the consequences of the treasure being discovered.¡±


    ¡°Until then, I¡¯ll stay single, waiting for your result.¡±


    Tong Sang was stunned.


    Looking at Qiao Xiaomai, his heart was like an overturned bottle of mixed vors, with all sorts of taste blending together.


    Of course, the bitterness was the most prominent.


    Many momentster, a lightugh emerged on his handsome face, ¡°Fine.¡±


    That was an unexpected answer.


    Qiao Xiaomai, she likes him.


    In the past, she was content with merely spending more time with him, but now, she really likes him.


    This was a pleasing reality.


    Made him want tough.


    It was also a rational decision, which he entirely endorsed.


    ¡°What can I do for you?¡± Seeing his smile, a bitter feeling surged in Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s heart.


    ¡°You don¡¯t need to do anything. Just live your little life well.¡± Tong Sang gently shook his head, ¡°The Sun family and Sun Junyan are walking into a dead-end, so be careful. I fear that they might harm you out of desperation.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai¡±¡­¡±


    Why suddenly change the topic to the Sun family? What a killjoy.


    She sniffed dismissively, ¡°Rest assured, Sun Junyan doesn¡¯t have the courage for a do-or-die resistance. As long as there¡¯s even a sliver of hope, he¡¯ll clench on to life. I think he¡¯s likely racking his brain on how to climb up, not on dueling with me.¡±


    ¡°Just in case.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s small face crinkled, with unhappiness she said, ¡°Don¡¯t bring him up, let¡¯s eat.¡±


    She pointed at the food on the table, ¡°If you want to eat, you cane to me every night.¡±


    ¡°Can Ie find you even if I don¡¯t want to eat?¡±

 Chapter 268: Irresistible Heartbeat

    Chapter 268: Irresistible Heartbeat


    Trantor: 549690339 I


    ¡°I¡¯ll kill the Sun Family.¡± Tong Sang repeated, ¡°Once she¡¯s dead, you won¡¯t have to worry anymore.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai looked into his pitch-ck eyes with her own wide open, realizing that he was serious. The corners of her eyes became hotter.


    An indescribable feeling was surging in her chest, rapidly spreading throughout her body.


    She sniffed, her voice hoarse, ¡°You better tend to my wound first.¡±


    Damn it, she bled too much. She felt dizzy from the shock.


    Upon hearing her words, Tong Sang leaned down to resume his task.


    As the water washed over the wound, Qiao Xiaomai took a shallow breath.


    It hurt, so bloody much it hurt.


    She subconsciously grasped the bedboard tightly.


    ¡°Does it hurt?¡± Seeing her in this state, Tong Sang wished he could take the pain for her.


    ¡°With you around, it¡¯s just a scratch.¡± Qiao Xiaomai looked at him, his face full of concern, and she managed to squeeze out a smile.


    Upon hearing her words, Tong Sang¡¯s lips became tighter.


    ¡°With you around.¡±


    These three words sounded like stonesnding heavily on him.


    He took a deep breath, put down the bowl of water, then leaned down to lick the gruesome wound with his tongue.


    The warmth and softness of his tongue was morefortable than the cool touch of the spring water. Qiao Xiaomai gripped the wooden board tightly and closed her eyes.


    Two clear tears slipped from the corners of her eyes, tracing down her temples.


    She always had four words for time-traveling: resistance, depression.


    ustomed to the modern world, there were too many things she wasn¡¯t used to in this broken ce.


    But she couldn¡¯t have imagined that in this rotten ce, she¡¯d meet a handsome youth like Tong Sang.


    She was stubborn, but he was equally as stubborn.


    Because of her, he¡¯d revealed his skills and picked a fight with Bai Zhi, causing him to be noticed by Yang Ye.


    Now, he¡¯d even faced off with General Cen Hong.


    If she was crazy, he ¨C a sneaky, secretive man ¨C was even crazier to follow her lead.


    She had Qiao Changshun and Qiao Dami to worry about, and he had a whole family to care for.


    Yet, for her, he¡¯s exposed himself like this.


    And now he¡¯s even nning to kill for her.


    She lifted her right hand, wiping away the tears from the corner of her eyes, then looked at him.


    He was attentively tending to her wound, his expression gentle, movements cautious, and a distinct vein of tenderness was present.


    Gazing at his handsome face so close to hers, the heat surged in her chest again.


    A tingling sensation spread throughout her body again, as if something flowed into her body through the wound.


    She closed her eyes again, silently savoring theforting feeling.


    After a while, Tong Sang finally looked up.


    As the wound was sorge, he was worried that it wouldn¡¯t heal, and thus he had spent a long time tending to it.


    ¡°How does it feel now?¡± He looked at Qiao Xiaomai, his handsome face noticeably pale.


    His heart was also beating rapidly. As he felt a difort in his chest, he lifted his hand to rub it.


    ¡°Much better.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai saw his pale face and was puzzled. Could her body really be draining his energy like a subus?


    She nced at the bloodstains on the corner of his mouth, licked her own lips, then retrieved a cup of spiritual spring water.


    The cup she used was the one she usually drank from.


    ¡°Have a drink.¡±


    The only useful thing she had was probably the spring water.


    Tong Sang took the cup, an object obviously not belonging to this world, with a calm expression.


    The sweetness of the water filled his body as it smoothed down his throat, alleviating his difort in his chest.


    The taste of blood in his mouth also significantly faded.


    He finished the whole cup in one go, then handed the cup back to Qiao Xiaomai.


    ¡°Do you want more?¡± Qiao Xiaomai asked. @@novelbin@@


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    As his words fell, Qiao Xiaomai touched the cup, and the initially empty cup was instantly filled with clear water.


    Without asking any questions, he brought the cup to his lips and finished it in one breath..

 Chapter 269: 269: Don’t Dirty Your Hands

    Chapter 269: 269: Don¡¯t Dirty Your Hands<div>


    Trantor: 549690339 |


    After consuming two cups of water, Tong Sang¡¯splexion returned to normal and his difort disappeared.


    Qiao Xiaomai, who has been closely watching him, let out a sigh of relief upon seeing this.<div>


    Tong Sang was unaware of Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s thoughts. He returned the cup to Qiao Xiaomai and looked down at the wound on her thigh.


    The bleeding had stopped and in the short time it took to finish two cups of water, the gruesome-looking wound had already scabbed over and the split skin had healed.


    He breathed a sigh of relief, ¡°Does it still hurt?¡±


    ¡°Nope.¡± Qiao Xiaomai shook her head.


    ¡°I will put a dressing on it for you. You need to put on a show for the next few days.¡± he said as he stood up and went to look for the first aid kit once more.


    Unlike just now, his actions were much calmer this time.


    Qiao Xiaomai watched his broad back, she too filled a cup with water and sipped at it slowly.


    Naturally, she avoided the spot where Tong Sang had drunk from.


    Tong Sang returned swiftly with a clean piece of silk cloth. Seeing Qiao Xiaomai sipping water from the cup, he somewhat awkwardly touched his nose.


    He bent down and, knowing the wound was no longer painful, consciously lightened his touch when he saw the long scab.


    Looking at his side profile, Qiao Xiaomai asked suddenly, ¡°Did you want to kill the Sun Family matron for trying to pull down your pants in public?¡±<div>


    Tong Sang froze at her words, his hands momentarily paused.


    The incident was so awkward that even now he wished he could hide his face with a cloth.


    ¡°No.¡± He tried to maintain a calm expression, not letting his embarrassment show.


    ¡°Why not?¡± Qiao Xiaomai pressed.


    ¡°At the time, 1 wished I could kill her with a single strike, but after calming down, 1 realized her crime wasn¡¯t deserving of death.¡± Tong Sang answered honestly.


    ¡°Have you ever killed anyone?¡± Qiao Xiaomai asked again.


    ¡°No. Although I am the young master of Tingfeng Pavilion, 1 only took up this position this year and haven¡¯t been out on a mission yet.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai, upon hearing this, put her cup back and her small face broke into a soft smile, ¡°Then you don¡¯t have to kill the Sun matron either.¡±


    Tong Sang nced at her, ¡°What if the emperor and soldier Cen Hong behave in the same way? It¡¯s better to eliminate her, to remove the threat.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t dirty your hands for her lowly life.¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s not worth it.¡±@@novelbin@@<div>


    Upon his words, Tong Sang couldn¡¯t help but look at her again.


    She gazed back at him with her clear, sparkling eyes. The area around her eyes was slightly reddish.


    He bent his head down again, ¡°1 sincerely wish to do something for you.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re already helping.¡±


    Instead of letting Tong Sang kill, she would rather put up with the repugnant Sun matron temporarily.


    How could she bear to let such a youth dip his hands in fresh blood?


    ¡°Listen to me. The Sun matron has been brazen and arrogant for decades. If she dies too easily, it¡¯ll be too merciful. I want her to live, to continue living painfully. That¡¯s the only way I¡¯ll feel better, understand?¡±


    Tong Sang remained silent, he carefully bandaged her wound, smearing the surrounding blood on the silk cloth, staining it with blotches of blood.


    This wouldn¡¯t arouse any suspicion.


    ¡°Have you remembered what I said?¡± Qiao Xiaomai asked, knitted her brows slightly.


    Tong Sang sat down on the small bed, ¡°You despise her greatly.¡±<div>


    ¡°That¡¯s why I will torment her every day. It¡¯s too merciful to let her die easily.¡± Qiao Xiaomai said, reached out to grasp Tong Sang¡¯s shoulder, and with a stern face and direct gaze, she earnestly urged, ¡°You mustn¡¯t kill her, understand?¡±


    Tong Sang met her gaze, his countenance calm, ¡°I don¡¯t mind.¡±


    ¡°But it matters to me. Tormenting her is the joy of my life. You must not deprive me of that joy.¡± Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s small face turned angry deliberately.


    ¡°So, how do you n to torture her?¡±


    ¡°Whatever she cares about most, I will trample on that. Such as Sun Junyan..¡±

 Chapter 287 - 287 Trouble Comes Again

    Chapter 287: Trouble Comes Again


    Trantor: 549690339 |


    The wheat got burned?!


    Qiao Xiaomai did not care about Yang Ye in front of her and quickly left the courtyard, ¡°What happened?!¡±


    Chen Gun huffed and puffed, exining, ¡°1 don¡¯t know, 1 was just about to go to the field when I ran into Du Qing¡¯ai. She has gone to find the Vige Chief. Upon seeing me she asked to ry the message to you.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai stomped her foot, ¡°I¡¯ll go take a look!¡±


    She turned around and looked at Yang Ye with hesitation, ¡°Prince¡­¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s go together.¡± Yang Ye closed the fan in his hand and pointed to the empty cattle shed, ¡°1 have a horse carriage.¡±


    At this time in the morning, Qiao Changshun, Qiao Dami, and the workers had already taken the ox-cart to the wheat fields, and if Qiao Xiaomai wanted to go, she would have to go on foot.


    Thest wheat field harvested was over ten miles away from Anping Vige. Walking was too slow. With this in mind, Qiao Xiaomai did not refuse and nodded, ¡°Thank you, Prince.¡±


    ¡°No need to be formal.¡± Yang Ye waved his hand and walked toward the courtyard exit.


    Qiao Xiaomai locked the courtyard door and got into Yang Ye¡¯s carriage.


    Yang Ye¡¯s carriage was very luxurious andfortable, but when galloping on the bumpy countryside roads, the passengers inside couldn¡¯t help but sway back and forth.


    Yang Ye, ustomed to such rough roads, casually leaned against the soft cushion, his posture graceful, his phoenix eyes half-closed, looking like a beautiful big cat dozing off.


    Qiao Xiaomai sat at the carriage entrance and asked, seeing him like this, ¡°Your Highness, did youe to see me today for some business?¡±


    Upon hearing this, Yang Ye opened his phoenix eyes and nodded, ¡°Indeed, there is something.¡±


    ¡°What is it?¡±


    ¡°That Cen Hong had originally gone back to the Capital City, but 1 don¡¯t know what my father was thinking. He sent him to Yichang Prefecture. Yesterday, he showed up again in Bailu Town. And it¡¯s not just him alone, my third brother has also arrived.¡±


    Huai¡¯an County is under the jurisdiction of Yichang Prefecture, which is akin to a province inter generations.


    Cen Hong hade to serve as the guard of Yichang Prefecture.


    As for Yang Ye¡¯s third brother, his name is Yang Wang, another prince, Duke Duan.


    This prince holds real power. He is Minister of Revenue of Daqi, controlling the poption and finances of Daqi. In addition to this, he is also the son of Concubine Li and is dearly loved by Emperor Yong¡¯an.


    With such a noble personing to Yong¡¯an Town, Qiao Xiaomai couldn¡¯t help being surprised, ¡°Why did hee?¡±


    ¡°Officially, he is supposed to visit headmaster Gu. But actually, he came to see you. He heard from Bai Zhi about your cooking skills, so he brought a chef specifically topete with you.¡±


    Yang Ye rubbed his temples with some headache, ¡°I¡¯m really sorry for all this trouble.¡±


    He looked apologetic on his handsome face, ¡°Cen Hong is my third brother¡¯s man. My third brother hase to regain face for him.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai


    Ever since she met Yang Ye, all he gave her was trouble.


    First, he wanted her to be his kitchen maid, then came Bai Zhi, after which came Cen Hong, and now theing of Duke Duan.


    Her eyes turned resentful. Were the benefits of being in good rtion with Yang Ye worth these waves of troubles?


    Yang Ye ufortably yed with the folding fan in his hand, his thick eyebrows slightly furrowed, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, no matter what stakes my third brother proposes, I¡¯ll cover for you. You just have to dare topete.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai still looked at him resentfully.


    He clicked his tongue a few times, pped his chest, and promised, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, if you win, my third brother wouldn¡¯t dare to do anything to you. You are now under the protection of my father, the Emperor, if you receive any unfair treatment, my father would definitely take a stand for you.¡±


    ¡°As long as you do what¡¯s right, there¡¯s no need to be afraid! If anything happens, I will bring it up to my father!¡±

 Chapter 271: Another Perspective

    Chapter 271: Another Perspective


    Trantor: 549690339 |


    Today she antagonized herself, and she was aware that this matter would be catastrophic for Cen Hongping.


    But as for Emperor Yongan, she really had no ns, only four words: Leave it to destiny.


    Yang Ye shook his head and said, ¡°It wouldn¡¯t go as far as amending the Daqi Law, but besidesw, there is also human sentiment. Laws are rigid, people are not. The Daqi Law doesn¡¯t explicitly rte to disownment, but it doesn¡¯t forbid it either.¡±


    ¡°This is a loophole, considering Sun family¡¯s past actions, I think the emperor will stand by your side.¡±


    The Daqi Law is not perfect, it hasn¡¯t explicitly prohibited disowning, so how this case is going to be decided, depends on the attitude of Emperor Yongan.


    Hearing this, Qiao Xiaomai blinked her eyes. So this matter could also be interpreted from this angle?


    ¡°The emperor is reasonable and understanding, he won¡¯t be as straightforward as General Cen. Miss Qiao, you can rest assured.¡±


    ¡°What about Mr. Cen?¡± asked Qiao Xiaomai.


    ¡°He has returned to Huai¡¯an County. His visit here was mainly to inspect the military affairs of Huai¡¯an County.¡± Seeing Qiao Xiaomai frown, Yang Ye quickly reassured, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, he can¡¯t avoid this matter, just let him be pleased for a few more days.¡±


    ¡°Thank you, Your Highness,¡± said Qiao Xiaomai sincerely.


    Yang Ye waved his hand, ¡°He is someone I brought in, I should be the one to feel sorry.¡±


    ¡°I wouldn¡¯t dare.¡± Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s little face instantly revealed a look of genuine fear and apprehension. @@novelbin@@


    ¡°Enough, enough.¡± Yang Ye clicked his tongue.


    With such a spirit, what would she dare not to do?


    Everybody was saying it at the time, anyone would do the same, ¡®anyone¡¯ was inclusive of even his emperor father.


    Had these words been uttered by anyone else, he would definitely have been furious. But because it was Qiao Xiaomai¡­


    The situation at the time was self evident, well, let¡¯s just forget it.


    ¡°I will send some medicinal materials for you to recuperate. Just wait for news from my father.¡± Once he made his mind, he addressed himself as ¡®me¡¯ again.


    ¡°Thank you, Your Highness.¡± Qiao Xiaomai thanked him again.


    Yang Ye gestured with his hand, recalling the delectable dishes at Tong Family¡¯s table, he couldn¡¯t help but sigh.


    After such an incident, he was embarrassed to return and slowly savor the meal.


    Those delicious fried field snails and loach, what a pity!


    Damn Cen Hongping, this matter is not over yet!


    Yang Ye gritted his teeth and looked at Qiao Xiaomai, ¡°You take care and recuperate, Sang, take good care of Miss Qiao, I will go back to town first.¡±


    This matter ¨C he must write a detailed ten-thousand-word memorandum and present it to his emperor father!


    After Yang Ye left, everyone in the roomforted Qiao Xiaomai for a while. Doctor Wu prescribed medicine, then Tong Sang carried Qiao Xiaomai out of Doctor Wu¡¯s house.


    Only then did Qiao Changshun hobble over.


    He looked at Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s weak face, his eyes getting moist.


    He never thought that Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s hatred and disgust for Sun¡¯s family would reach this point, preferring to die rather than acknowledging her as her grandmother.


    However, he was previously thinking of asking her to plead for Sun¡¯s family.


    He was wrong.


    His previous thoughts were too naive.


    He had failed his own daughter.


    ¡°Dad, I¡¯m fine.¡± Seeing Qiao Changshun about to burst into tears, Qiao Xiaomai secretly rolled her eyes.


    She might feel guilty and remorseful if Qiao Dami cried, but she had tofort Qiao Changshun ¨C a grown man?


    ¡°Changshun Uncle, Miss Qiao is fine. I¡¯ll take her home now. You and Dami can follow at your own pace, don¡¯t rush.¡± Tong Sang spoke.


    Qiao Xiaomai needed ¡°rest¡±.


    ¡°You quickly take her home.¡± Qiao Changshun wiped his eyes with his hand and quickly nodded.


    So, Tong Sang carried Qiao Xiaomai and using his lightness skill went straight back to the Qiao Family house. Since he had already disyed it in front of everyone, there was no need to hide it anymore..

 Chapter 289: It’s not me!

    Chapter 289: It¡¯s not me!


    Trantor: 549690339 |


    The shack Sun Family and Sun Junyan lived in, although called a shack, was in fact a wooden house. The weather was not too hot when they were chased out of the vige. To ensure that this mother-son duo wouldn¡¯t catch a cold, the shack was built to be wind-tight and waterproof.


    Tree trunks as thick as a baby¡¯s arm were secured together with wires to form wooden panels, which served as walls that wind could not prate and rain could not seep through.


    And because they were the mother and son, there were proper distinctions made between men and women, Tong Tiehu therefore built two separate rooms.


    Furthermore, the ground inside this wooden house, although erected in the fields, was pressed as t and firm as the threshing floor.


    Under these conditions, anyone who saw this would praise Tong Tiehu for his righteousness.


    Even though his own grandson had been publicly humiliated, he still managed to construct such a good wooden house. This vige chief is really a good man!


    Also, conveniently located next to the field was a well, which the vigers used to irrigate their crops. This solved the mother and son¡¯s water needs.


    The house was new, there was water for domestic use, and they could tend to the fields without walking a step out of their home.


    What¡¯s more, this ce was tranquil. They could cook whatever they fancied without the fear of their secret recipes being leaked.


    With such conditions, it felt to Qiao Xiaomai like they had moved into a new house.


    Tong Tiehu was too kind-hearted!


    When they were approaching, they could see Sun Family sitting at the door, grinding grains; besides her, there was arge pile of grains totalling hundreds of catties.


    Sun Junyan was nowhere to be seen.


    Yang Ye snapped his fingers and pointed with the fan he held at Sun Family.


    ¡°See, everything I said was not false.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai raised her eyebrows and secretly clenched her teeth.


    The Sun Family had been reduced to such a state that even if they sold their pathetic lives, they wouldn¡¯t fetch ten thousand catties of grain, goddammit!


    Damn it!


    Yang Ye happened to be watching her out of the corner of his eyes and noticed her grinding her teeth, so heughed and said, ¡°As I said, 1 willpensate you.¡±


    ¡°No need. If Sun Family really did it, she will receive the punishment she deserves. I¡¯ll be very happy if she suffers. As for the grain, consider it as my purchase of a goodugh.¡± She squeezed those words out through her grit teeth.


    ¡°Why are you being so courteous with me?¡±Yang Ye was greatly impressed by Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s skill. He respected those with true talent.


    Moreover, Qiao Xiaomai was skilled in his favorite culinary art.


    He genuinely wanted to have a good rtionship with Qiao Xiaomai.


    ¡°And now that we have the evidence, it¡¯s highly likely that Sun Family did it.¡± He added with certainty.


    ¡°Thank you for your kindness, Your Highness, but I can¡¯t ept yourpensation without good reason.¡± Qiao Xiaomai forced a smile, ¡°Whether it was indeed Sun Family or not, we need to ask her first.¡±


    While they were talking, the carriage had reached the vicinity of the wooden house. Sun Family stood up, her face full of suspicion and disgust, but she kept herposure.


    She didn¡¯t look flustered at all like someone who had done something wrong should be.


    She even took the initiative to ask, ¡°What are you here for?¡±


    Her tone was unfriendly.


    Yang Ye and Qiao Xiaomai got off the carriage, followed by Qiao Changshun, Qiao Dami, Tong Sang, and Tong Tiehu who got off the bullock cart. With an expressionless face, Tong Sang pointed to the pile of grain in front of the wooden house, ¡°Where did these grainse from?¡±


    ¡°My son gave them to me.¡± Sun Family was initially standing with her hands on her hips, but upon seeing Yang Ye, she instantly became less defiant. Not only did she put her hands down, her voice also weakened considerably.


    This nobleman was of too high a status, so high that she couldn¡¯t even arouse the feeling of hate or loathe towards him.


    ¡°Which son gave them to you?¡± Tong Sang frowned and asked.


    ¡°My eldest, my second, and my third. I am their mother. I was starving to death, they wouldn¡¯t let me starve to death, would they?¡± Sun Family replied..

 Chapter 290: Who is it really?

    Chapter 290: Who is it really?


    Trantor: 549690339 |


    ¡°When did you ask for it?¡± Tong Sang continued to ask.


    ¡°Yesterday. They had pretty much finished harvesting their wheat, so the three of them gathered this little pile.¡± Sun Family¡¯s chin pointed towards the wheat pile, her tone filled with resentment.


    ¡°Did you go outst night? Did your son, Sun Junyan, go out? Where is he now?¡± Tong Sang fired off three questions in a row.


    ¡°Who goes out in the middle of the night? It¡¯s all wilderness out there. As for Xiaowu, he went to town today, left early in the morning.¡± Sun Family was displeased with the tone Tong Sang used, much like how one interrogates a criminal.


    But she had no choice. With the respected Lord Yang Ye present, she dared not act rashly.


    Tong Sang turned his gaze to Qiao Xiaomai.


    Qiao Xiaomai crossed her arms, her chin pointing in the direction of Anping Vige, ¡°You are skilled in lightness techniques, go ask these three families.¡±


    ¡°Hmm.¡± Without a word, Tong Sang activated his lightness techniques and left. In the blink of an eye, he was gone.


    Seeing this, Yang Ye¡¯s gaze lingered on Qiao Xiaomai for a moment, carrying a hint of surprise.


    This familiar tone, the difference from the previous polite one, was too evident.


    Had their rtionship deepened?


    Just as he was wondering, Sun Family shrank back and opened her mouth, ¡°Changsun, what happened?¡±


    Qiao Changshun let out a sigh, weakly saying, ¡°Last night, more than twenty acres of wheat were burned.¡±


    Sun Family¡±!!!¡±


    Her small eyes suddenly widened, the corners of her mouth uncontrobly curling up. She almost burst outughing.


    Qiao Changshun¡±¡­¡±


    His chest felt as though it had been struck by a heavy hammer. He raised his hand to rub it and sighed repeatedly.


    ¡°Are you sure you didn¡¯t start the fire?¡± Tong Tiehu spoke, his tone stern.


    Sun Family tried hard to hold back herughter, she continually nodded and patted her chest saying, ¡°Vige Chief, I swear on Xiaowu¡¯s future, it really wasn¡¯t me. There¡¯s so much farnd in the Changsun¡¯s estate, I wouldn¡¯t even know specifically where. How could I have started a fire?¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai lifted a surprised eyebrow, ¡°You swear on Sun Junyan¡¯s future?¡±


    ¡°Indeed!¡± Sun Family pped her thigh loudly, ¡°If I burned your wheat, then my Xiaowu will remain amon peasant his whole life, only able to grub up food from the soil!¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai¡±¡­¡±


    She stared at Sun Family¡¯s face, which seemed as though spring flowers had bloomed, and felt confused.


    If Sun Family had sworn on her own life, she would have disregarded it entirely.


    But Sun Family actually swore on Sun Junyan¡¯s future. Did this mean that Sun Family really didn¡¯t do it?


    But if Sun Family didn¡¯t do it, then who could it be?


    Aside from conflicts with Sun Family and Sun Junyan, she didn¡¯t have problems with anyone else.


    Moreover, due to the imperial decreest time, the vigers had been treating her with kindness.


    Who would offend her under such circumstances?


    ¡°Could it have been Sun Junyan who started the fire?¡± Yang Ye spoke up.


    Upon hearing this, Sun Family immediately shook her head and waved her hands, ¡°No, no, no, Lord, Xiaowu went to sleep very earlyst night. He had arranged to meet with somepanions this morning and got up very early to go to town.¡±


    Yang Ye furrowed his long eyebrows, looking towards Qiao Xiaomai. His phoenix eyes carried doubts as if asking whether she had offended anyone else.


    Qiao Xiaomai understood his gaze and shook her head.


    She always treated others kindly and, apart from Sun Family and her people, had not had disputes with anyone else.


    Seeing this, Yang Ye pointed his chin at Qiao Changshun.


    Qiao Xiaomai shook her head again.


    Qiao Changshun was even more honest than she was and would definitely not have conflicts with others.


    The situation was at a standstill.


    A good whileter, Tong Sang came back.


    It was true that Qiao Changfu, Qiao Chang¡¯an and Qiao Changkang had gathered a hundred catties of wheat for Sun Family and delivered it yesterday.


    Now the situation was even more of a standstill.


    Qiao Xiaomai took a deep breath, ¡°Back to the vige, offer a reward. Whoever has a clue, once confirmed, ten taels of silver. If the arsonist is found, a hundred taels of silver..¡±

 Chapter 274: Yes, That Treasure Belongs to My Family

    Chapter 274: Yes, That Treasure Belongs to My Family


    Trantor: 549690339 |


    ¡°Yeah.¡± Tong Sang nodded, lighting the fire and stuffing firewood into the stove, ¡°It¡¯s a tough life. In my great-grandmother¡¯s words, those silvers taken from the people should be used for the people.¡±


    ¡°Although my great-grandfather exined that these were the resources for future rebellion, my great-grandmother said there was plenty anyway, and when the silver ran out, there would still be gold. So, my grandfather handed out the silver for disaster relief.¡±


    ¡°Wait a second.¡± Upon hearing this, Qiao Xiaomai couldn¡¯t help but interrupt him, ¡°Are you saying, the treasure buried beneath my house, actually belongs to your family?¡±


    ¡°The brave man who stormed into the Imperial Pce of the previous dynasty, looted the National Treasury but was beaten out, was your great-grandfather?¡±


    ¡°Yes, I¡¯m sorry, I didn¡¯t exin clearlyst time.¡± Tong Sang showed his apology.


    By this point, there was no sense in hiding it from Qiao Xiaomai.


    He had said what he needed to say.


    Qiao Xiaomai gave a long, understanding ¡®Oh¡¯, the realization dawning on her face, ¡°It¡¯s okay, you did the right thing.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re not ming me?¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s there to me.¡± Xiaomai shook her head, quickly questioning again, ¡°Your great-grandmother was a real heroine!¡±


    Handing out silver for disaster relief, what kindness and courage!


    Upon hearing this, Tong Sang was silent for a moment before stuffing more firewood into the stove, standing up to start making egg pancakes.


    Seeing this, Qiao Xiaomai walked over to help him with the fire.


    She sat down by the stove, and then Tong Sang continued, ¡°Actually, strictly speaking, she wasn¡¯t my great-grandmother.¡±


    ¡°My great-grandfather was originally married and had a concubine, but after meeting her, he sent away his wife, concubine, legitimate children, and illegitimate children. The original wife of my great-grandfather, my true great-grandmother, was also sent away. My grandfather and Sixth-grandfather, being legitimate sons, were also sent away.¡±


    ¡°Later my great-grandfather revolted, and she followed him in his battles everywhere. When the army was defeated and surrounded, my great-grandfather had someone escort her away.¡±


    ¡°She arrived here first and then sent someone to bring my grandfather and Sixth-grandfather over. By the time they arrived, the treasure had already been buried and the secret tunnel in the mountain had beenpleted.¡± @@novelbin@@


    ¡°She passed on my great-grandfather¡¯sst words to my grandfather and Sixth-grandfather, and then devoted herself to nurturing Sixth-grandfather, ensuring his education, teaching him how to take the Imperial Examination and how to be an official.¡±


    ¡°Later, she died, not living long, only in her twenties.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai¡±¡­¡±


    This story, it¡¯s a bitplicated.


    ¡°So, I really don¡¯t know how the treasure was buried, nor how the three undergroundyers were built, I¡¯m sorry.¡± Tong Sang¡¯s hands didn¡¯t stop working as he showed an apologetic expression.


    He really wanted to rify Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s doubts, but he truly didn¡¯t know either.


    ¡°Alt¡­there¡¯s no need to apologize.¡± Xiaomai shook her head, her face bearing two words: astonished.


    She was so shocked that her mind was somewhat flooded.


    This is a lot of information; she needed to carefully organize it.


    After thinking for a while, she asked, ¡°So, your¡­the Tong family is nning a rebellion?¡±


    Let¡¯s put aside this mistress who ascended for now, she asked the key question first.


    ¡°The Yang family governs thisnd well, their rule is strong, so my grandfather is hesitant. However, my Sixth-grandfather is determined to cause a rebellion.¡±


    ¡°So how do you n to do it? Who is your Sixth-grandfather, what preparations has he made? This isn¡¯t a game!¡± Xiaomai quickly asked again.


    ¡°He¡­¡± Tong Sang¡¯s words trailed off, then he continued, ¡°Your dad and Dami are back, you better get back to bed.¡±


    ¡°Really!¡± Qiao Xiaomai pped her thigh in disappointment, quickly standing up and running towards her room.


    Being interrupted at this time, it felt like a cat scratching around in her heart!

 Chapter 292: His Laughter is Profound and Unfathomable

    Chapter 292: His Laughter is Profound and Unfathomable


    Trantor: 549690339


    Qiao Xiaomai was just about to head out when Tong Sang took the initiative toe by.


    ¡°How¡¯s it going?¡±


    ¡°How¡¯s it going?¡±


    Both asked at the same time, looked at each other for a moment, then burst outughing.


    Tong Sang spoke first, ¡°I told the vige chief of Dazhou Vige. He said that if there were any leads, he¡¯d send them over.¡±


    ¡°Same.¡± Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s response was concise. Then she added, ¡°Prince Wei wants to go fishing on the riverbank. Hurry home and get the fishing. Let¡¯s go together.¡±


    Tong Sang nodded, ¡°Okay.¡±


    The moment his words fell, he had already disappeared without a trace.


    Yang Ye sat under a tree in the courtyard enjoying his tea and catching this scene. He tsked lightly, ¡°Tong Sang¡¯s lightness skill is so good. He¡¯s like a shadowless figure, always up and ready to get things done.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai, expressionless, turned to the prince, ¡°Your Highness, is cold water good for brewing tea?¡±


    This ce didn¡¯t have a kettle, one needed to boil the water if they wanted it hot. Earlier when Yang Ye said he wanted tea, she told him there was no hot water. He didn¡¯t mind and directly brewed the tea in cold water.


    Of course, she used water from the Spiritual Spring.


    Yang Ye nodded seriously, ¡°It¡¯s good. The feng shui of your home is really wonderful. The well water is sweet, almost as good as the wine the Jade Emperor drinks.¡±


    ¡°Your Highness has tasted the Jade Emperor¡¯s wine?¡±


    ¡°I haven¡¯t, but I imagine it must taste this good ¨C it can¡¯t get any better.¡± Yang Ye took a light sip of the tea, an expression of bliss on his face.


    Qiao Xiaomai


    She stood at the doorway, immobile.


    In the next moment, Tong Sang appeared, a fishing in his hand.


    Sheughed, adorable dimples appearing at the corners of her mouth. Her eyes squinted into crescents as she asked, ¡°Been running for so long, want a drink of water?¡±


    ¡°Sure.¡± Tong Sang didn¡¯t hesitate.


    ¡°Alt, seems like even Sang knows the water in Miss Qiao¡¯s home tastes great.¡±


    ¡°Your Highness makes fun of me.¡± responded Tong Sang.


    Yang Yeughed, nodding his head, ¡°You¡¯ve worked hard. You should take a drink. Or shall we rest a while so as not to make some people worry?¡±


    ¡°No need.¡±


    ¡°Indeed, with such impressive lightness skills, if one can¡¯t even bear this much, how could they earn the trust of youngdies.¡±


    Tong Sang


    Qiao Xiaomai


    Yang Ye scanned both of them, emptied his tea cup, and then stood up, a mysterious smile on his face as he walked away from the courtyard.


    Qiao Xiaomai quietly curled her lip. She handed the bowl in her hand to Tong Sang, mouthing three silent words: Nutcase.


    Tong Sang epted the bowl, drained its contents, and remained silent.


    Qiao Xiaomai saw him do this, stuck her nose up at him, and then returned the bowl to the kitchen.


    Tong Sang licked his lips and stepped out of the courtyard.


    The three of them went to the riverbank. While Yang Ye and Qiao Xiaomai watched from the edge, Tong Sang went into the river to fish.


    In no time at all, he filled up a bucket, which was teeming with small fish, snails, and loaches.


    Returning home, Qiao Xiaomai was about to ask Tong Sang to help clean up the catch, but he made up an excuse about needing to return home to handle some chores.


    Clearly, it was just an excuse.


    What could the Tong family possibly require his attention for?


    Qiao Xiaomai frowned secretly, sitting alone by the well and cleaning fish scales.


    Yang Ye still sat under the tree, offering a continuous flow of advice as Qiao Xiaomai worked.


    Soon, Qiao Changshun and his son Qiao Dami came back.


    The three of them worked together to prepare a satisfying meal for Yang Ye.


    As Yang Ye was leaving, he even packed a few dishes to go. He said, ¡°Miss Qiao, remember, in three days a servant wille to fetch you. Feel free to cook whatever you want. Don¡¯t hold back.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai nodded and forced a smile.


    Yang Ye was extremely talkative and she felt relieved when he finally left..

 Chapter 293: Handing Over Private Money

    Chapter 293: Handing Over Private Money


    Trantor: 549690339 |


    Yang Ye left, and Qiao Changsun finally let out his heartache, sitting immobile in the courtyard, feeling as if he had been hollowed out.


    Qiao Dami was also a bit gloomy, silently cooking chicken feed.


    Qiao Xiaomai sighed, picked up a bucket to fetch water, and watered the vegetable garden.


    At such times, nofort would work. The only option was to let the heartache slowly pass.


    Qiao Changsun¡¯s lips trembled as he spoke, ¡°Finding the person who started the fire will cost us a hundred taels. Plus, he certainly can¡¯t afford topensate for all that wheat.¡±


    In the end, his family was just unlucky.


    The heartache made him feel like he could roll on the ground in his distress!


    Nearly ten thousand jin of wheat!


    The wheat they had previously harvested was only left a bit for daily consumption, the rest was all sold. They had nned to use thisst batch of wheat for taxes, but now they would have to buy more wheat to pay their taxes!


    Qiao Changsun heaved a deep sigh, pped his thigh with hisrge hand. For a moment, he really wished to emte the Sun family, sitting at the vige entrance, swearing like a shrew.


    This frustration was choking him!


    ¡°It¡¯s okay, we won¡¯tck this bit of silver.¡± Qiao Xiaomai responded. She chose to mention silver, not wheat.


    A mountain of wheat and thirty taels of silver, it was easier for her to bear when she thought of it in terms of silver.


    ¡°It¡¯s not about the silver, it¡¯s about the wheat!¡± Qiao Changsun bit his teeth as he said this.


    As a man who was generally cid and barely knew what anger was, he was genuinely angry this time.


    As a farmer, he knew how much sweat andbor it took from nting to harvesting wheat.


    Not to mention, he had often been hungry in the past, so his reverence for wheat was higher than most people¡¯s. One could tell this from the very name of Qiao Xiaomai.


    Such precious wheat, ten thousand jin, ten thousand jin! He personally watched the vigers harvesting this wheat and stacking it at the threshing ground, but some heartless person just set it all on fire.


    All that sweat and effort over such a long time was wasted.


    He would rather it had been stolen!


    Qiao Xiaomai turned to look at him, took a deep breath, ¡°No one could have expected this.¡±


    ¡°If I knew this would happen, I would have stayed in the field overnight!¡± Qiao Changsun said again.


    Hearing this, Qiao Xiaomai was somewhat speechless. With his limp, who could he catch up with?


    Once the fire had started, the dry and highly mmable wheat straw, there was nothing he could do about it.


    ¡°Don¡¯t be angry anymore, just wait for the result.¡±


    The field, being sorge, it was unrealistic to keep watching over it.


    As for this frustration, as long as the person who started the fire was found, just ept it.


    Thinking of this, she turned around and continued to water the vegetable garden with the woodendle.


    She was growing several types ofmon vegetables in the vegetable garden, and she especially took care of the chili pepper seedlings.


    Yang Ye had also taken a look earlier, caring more than she did.


    This was the source of her future wealth.


    Qiao Changsun sighed and fell silent, quietly looking up at the sky.


    The three of them just spent the afternoon like this.


    In the evening, Qiao Changsun only drank a bowl of rice porridge, and Qiao Dami didn¡¯t eat much either. Father and son went to bed early.


    Qiao Xiaomai didn¡¯t sleep, staying up till midnight, when the window was gently knocked. Tong Sang had arrived.


    She got up wearing her robe, and the two of them sat under the tree in the courtyard again.


    Qiao Xiaomai took out a few snacks from her space and asked somewhat unhappily, ¡°Why did you leave so early today?¡±


    ¡°I was afraid Wei Wang might notice.¡± Tong Sang answered honestly.


    Qiao Xiaomai


    She remembered Yang Ye¡¯s inscrutable smile from earlier, ¡°Surely not?¡±


    ¡°From now on, in front of others¡­ let¡¯s avoid looking at each other.¡±


    Perhaps they really couldn¡¯t control their feelings, not being able to hide the affection in their faces when they looked at each other.


    ¡°Also.¡± He said and took out a bundle of silver notes from his bosom, cing them in front of Qiao Xiaomai, ¡°Here, this is five thousand taels, all my private money, for you..¡±

 Chapter 294: Giving You Pocket Money

    Chapter 294: Giving You Pocket Money


    Trantor: 549690339 |


    When Yang Ye said that he was going to give 500 taels today, he really wanted to protest in the same way.


    Qiao Xiaomai is his girlfriend after all, how could he just stand by at this moment?


    But he had no grounds to openly object.


    He could only swallow his frustration.


    Heter realized that Yang Ye might have discovered his rtionship with Qiao Xiaomai, so he left willingly.


    He felt very uneasy all afternoon.


    At one point, he even thought about ending the rtionship. Xiaomai was so wonderful, he didn¡¯t want her to be implicated in any way.


    But he couldn¡¯t bear to.


    He truly couldn¡¯t bear to.


    Living to the age of seventeen, he tasted the beauty of love for the first time, and he couldn¡¯t bear to let it go.


    Every moment they spent together felt like an unexpected gain.


    Maybe, there might not be a tomorrow.


    So while they could still be together now, he wanted to do whatever he could for Xiaomai.


    ¡°Don¡¯t feel sorry, 1 will replenish you.¡± He smiled and said.


    Xiaomai raised her eyebrows and picked up the pile of silver notes, all in denominations of a hundred taels. She counted them one by one, and finally said, ¡°Five thousand taels, is this your private money?¡±


    ¡°Yes, I am the young master of Tingfeng Pavilion, of course I have private money.¡± Tong Sang said as he lifted the tea cup and took a light sip, ¡°Actually, my family receives quite a bit of dividends from Jimei Ju every year, but this money is managed by my grandfather.¡±


    ¡°Tingfeng Pavilion makes money from selling information too, but after sharing with Grandpa Liu, the money is also managed by grandpa.¡±


    ¡°The five thousand taels, partly are the wages I get every month after bing the young master, and partly are the rewards I¡¯ve received over the years during the New Year. I didn¡¯t have many expenses, so I umted this much.¡±


    Xiaomai made a sound of acknowledgment, dragging out the end of the note. Five thousand taels, quite impressive for a seventeen-year-old country boy.


    ¡°As the young master of Tingfeng Pavilion, how much do you earn in a month?¡± she asked.


    ¡°One hundred taels.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s quite little.¡±


    ¡°It was set by grandpa. He said I was young, and wouldn¡¯t need that much silver.¡±


    Xiaomai made a few tut-tutting noises, then returned the pile of silver notes to Tong Sang, ¡°You keep it, it¡¯s the thought that counts.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯mpensating you.¡± Tong Sang emphasized the word pensating¡¯ and pushed the silver notes back.


    ¡°It¡¯s only thirty taels. What I¡¯m peeved about is the ten thousand kilos of wheat, and not being able to swallow this slight.¡± Xiaomai hummed and pointed at the silver notes. ¡°Take it away, 1 don¡¯t want it.¡±


    ¡°Why don¡¯t you want it? If we really do get married in the future, I¡¯ll have to hand it over anyway. If we don¡¯t get married, letting these silver notes lying around at my ce would be a waste. Regardless, I¡¯m giving them to you in this lifetime.¡± Tong Sang said.


    Xiaomai¡±¡­¡±


    ¡®If we don¡¯t get married,¡¯ this sentence made her feel a little bitter inside.


    If they didn¡¯t get married, there would only be one oue.


    She curved her lips into a smile, picked up the silver notes, and carefully put them away in the void.


    The sincerity of a young man was worth more than its weight in gold.


    She took nine dimes out of the void and put them in front of Tong Sang, ¡°Here, since you¡¯ve handed over your private money, then I should give you pocket money. Take it and spend it freely, if it¡¯s not enough as me for more.¡±


    Tong Sang¡¯s handsome face showed a surprised color, ¡°No need, I still have some spare change.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not the same, I just want to give you pocket money.¡±


    Tong Sang was taken aback for a moment, then began tough, ¡°Can I have it in silver?¡±


    Nine dimes, nine thousand copper coins, were quite cumbersome to carry.


    ¡°In the countryside, it¡¯s more convenient to use copper coins.¡±


    ¡°Well in that case, I¡¯ll ept it.¡± Tong Sang nodded, ¡°From now on, I¡¯ll hand over my wages to you every month.¡±


    ¡°Then I¡¯ll give you pocket money every month.¡±


    The two looked at each other and then burst intoughter.


    The night was, indeed, so wonderful..

 Chapter 295: The Whistleblower Arrives

    Chapter 295: The Whistleblower Arrives


    Trantor: 549690339 I


    The next day, Qiao Changshun got up, and the vigers started to trickle in.


    Even though there was no wheat left, things like millet, soybeans, sweet potatoes, and sesame still had to be grown. They couldn¡¯t just ignore the other fields because of yesterday¡¯s financial hit.


    Qiao Changshun and Qiao Dami went out to the fields, while Qiao Xiaomai locked up the courtyard and headed to town.


    The tax collector from the County Town would be visiting in the next few days, so she needed to buy wheat and hemp cloth.


    She did some heavy shopping in town, paid the delivery fee, and had the grain store deliver the wheat back home.


    In the afternoon, she started cooking. This time she went to Ji Wei Ju and bought some ingredients she had never tried before: shrimp, crab, sea cucumber, dried abalone, dried scallops, and so on, nning to indulge herself under the pretext of practicing new recipes.


    When Qiao Changshun and Qiao Dami came back in the evening, they were both stunned.


    The Qiao family had never eaten these things before.


    ¡°Come on, eat more, your mood will improve if you eat plenty.¡± Qiao Xiaomai urged the two of them to wash their hands quickly.


    Qiao Changshun sighed mournfully. After losing so much money, and now eating such expensive food, it only added to his distress.


    However, understanding the good intentions of Qiao Xiaomai, he didn¡¯t say anything. After washing his hands, he sat at the table and tucked in heartily.


    After dinner, Qiao Changshun and Qiao Dami strolled around the courtyard to aid digestion, totally stuffed.


    ¡°By the way, Xiaomai, I ran into Brother Ma today.¡±


    ¡°Brother Ma?¡±


    ¡°Ma Dongshu.¡±


    ¡°When did you guys be so close?¡±


    ¡°We chatted all afternoon today and became quite close.¡±


    ¡°What did you talk about?¡±


    ¡°He asked me if our vige had any legends or stories. He said that when studying feng shui, all aspects have to be considered.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai raised an eyebrow, ¡°And what did you say?¡±


    ¡°Of course, I said no. Anping Vige didn¡¯t exist until after the founding of Daqi. At that time, everyone was disced because of the war, so we settled down and founded the vige here. How can there be any legends in a vige that¡¯s only been around for a few decades?¡±


    ¡°He asked me in detail about the founding of the vige, which 1 couldn¡¯t answer.¡±


    He wasn¡¯t even born when Anping Vige was established.


    Qiao Xiaomaiughed, ¡°Exactly, that¡¯s a question for Grandpa Tong.¡±


    ¡°He alsoplimented your cooking skills. He¡¯s willing to pay for meals and extra for your hard work, offering to have three meals a day at our house. He asked if you¡¯re willing.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not interested. I don¡¯t need the extra money.¡± Qiao Xiaomai tly refused.


    Having been roaming the mountain for several days, Ma Dongshu was now trying to get closer to her.


    Did he find something, or was he choosing her as a breakthrough point because he hadn¡¯t found anything at all?


    With such a big troublemaker as Yang Yeing along, not to mention potential trouble from Prince Duan, if she couldn¡¯t protect herself when things hit the fan, she would be in deep trouble.


    ¡°Isn¡¯t that bad? After all, he is one of Prince Wei¡¯s men.¡± Qiao Changshun said.


    ¡°What¡¯s so special about Prince Wei? Even Prince Wei can¡¯t eat my cooking every day, let alone him.¡±


    Qiao Changshun


    Her words sounded unreasonable but also made a lot of sense.


    ¡°Alright, Dad, don¡¯t worry about it, go back to your room and sleep.¡± Qiao Xiaomai said.


    Qiao Changshun nodded, ¡°Are you sure everything¡¯s fine?¡±


    ¡°Absolutely fine.¡± Qiao Xiaomai assured him confidently.


    ¡°Then alright, you handle it.¡± Qiao Changshun sighed and led Qiao Dami back to their room.


    Qiao Xiaomai also got up and retreated to her room. She lit the oilmp, took out a carving knife and paper from her space, and prepared to cut a 3D paper carving to give to Tong Sang.


    Crafting was her small hobby aside from gourmet food.


    At midnight, Tong Sang arrived right on time.


    Her paper carving was already done. It was a 3D vase with a bouquet of roses inside.


    This exquisite item amazed Tong Sang, he held it in his hands, turning it over repeatedly to examine.


    ¡°It¡¯s a gift for you, a rose.¡± His reaction delighted Qiao Xiaomai.


    ¡°A rose? Shouldn¡¯t I be the one giving this to you?¡± After Qiao Xiaomai exined, he understood that roses symbolize love and are usually given by men to the women they love.


    ¡°It¡¯s all the same.¡± Qiao Xiaomai chuckled lightly.


    Tong Sang raised an eyebrow, ¡°So you¡­¡±


    Suddenly, his voice stopped abruptly, his index finger raised in a shushing gesture, whispered, ¡°Someone ising..¡±

 Chapter 279: Passing Notes

    Chapter 279: Passing Notes


    Trantor: 549690339 |


    Because of this imperial decree, Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s fondness for Emperor Yongan skyrocketed as if torn upwards by a rocket.


    She began to ponder earnestly the possibility of a preemptive strike at the root.


    If she could retrieve the ticking bomb hidden in the house, then the likelihood of Tong Li¡¯s rebellion would decrease significantly.


    But-


    Had young Tong Sang truly stopped visiting her?


    That¡¯s right, she had decided to convince Tong Sang to take her to check the secret tunnel. Yet for four or five days on end, there was no sign of him.


    She needed to recuperate and couldn¡¯t go out, but since she was noted as sick by Emperor Yongan, many vigers came to visit her. Among these visitors, Tong Sang was absent.


    When Gao Xiaomei came, she asked surreptitiously.


    Gao Xiaomei told her that Tong Sang had been busytely. Ma Dongshu had moved into Tong¡¯s new house and had been going into the mountains, with Tong Sang apanying him all the way.


    Upon hearing this, her heart involuntarily jerked.


    The mountains were where the secret tunnel was located. Yang Ye had invited this Ma Dongshu, could the secret tunnel still remain secret?


    As night fell, Qiao Xiaomaimanded Qiao Dami to fill half a basket with bean sprouts and put two pounds of dried tofu skin in and have Qiao Dami delivered them to the Tong Family.


    ¡°I wanted to thank you, Brother Tong, for carrying me home that day,¡± Qiao Xiaomai dered nobly, ¡°And also this.¡±


    She gave Qiao Dami a folded note and instructed, ¡°You must personally hand this to your Brother Tong. Do not let anyone else see it.¡±


    Qiao Dami nodded heavily.


    He had been so busytely that he had almost forgotten to express his gratitude!


    Carrying the basket, he ran off to the Tong¡¯s house.


    Along the way, many people greeted him. From elderly folks to children his age, all friendly.


    Upon reaching the Tong¡¯s, the family was having dinner. Except for Tong Dajie¡¯s family, everyone else was there.


    With the yard gate wide open, he greeted everyone first, then beckoned to Tong Sang, ¡°Brother Tong, this is from my sister. She thanks you for carrying her homest time!¡±


    Tong Sang epted the basket and tousled his hair, ¡°How is your sister?¡± ¡°All good now!¡± Qiao Dami stretched out his small hand to grab Tong Sang¡¯s empty left hand, secretly passed him the note, and made a yful blink.


    ¡°Brother Tong, do visit my sister when you¡¯re free- I am heading home! Goodbye, Grandfather Tong!¡±


    Having said this, he ran off in a puff of smoke. @@novelbin@@


    Tong Sang was momentarily taken aback. He did not follow, but gripped the note tightly in his hands.


    Pursing his lips, he turned to walk towards the kitchen.


    ¡°Wait, what did they send over?¡± Zhu Hongyun stopped him, craning her neck to peek into the basket.


    ¡°Bean sprouts, tofu skin.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s it?¡± Zhu Hongyun scoffed. Bean sprouts were two catties a copper, and while she hadn¡¯t eaten or heard of dried tofu skin, she believed it was not too pricey either.


    Seeing her intent, Tong Sang said solemnly, ¡°The tofu skin. Miss Qiao sells it to Zuixian Building for one tael silver per catty.¡±


    The contemptuous look on Zhu Hongyun¡¯s face froze, then she huffed, ¡°She caused a ruckus at grandfather¡¯s birthday banquet and all she sent were these? And only sent them days after the incident.¡±


    ¡°Shut your mouth, was the disturbance even caused by her?¡± Tong Tiehu scowled at her.


    ¡°She drew blood at your birthday banquet, grandfather. That was most inauspicious,¡± Tong Lanng chimed in.


    ¡°Are you genuinely concerned about this old man, or just taking the opportunity to pick on Xiaomai?¡± Tong Tiehu stared at him, his words sharp.


    Tong Lanng was flustered. ¡°Of course I am concerned about you, grandfather!¡± he hastily replied.


    ¡°No need to be, I am perfectly fine..¡±

 Chapter 280: How about proposing to the Qiao Family?

    Chapter 280: How about proposing to the Qiao Family?


    Trantor: 549690339


    Tong Er Lang stumbled over his words.


    Zhu Hongyun and Tong Sang put the basket in the kitchen, grumbling in a low voice, ¡°See, they deliberately left the basket behind when they came to deliver the goods. San Lang will definitely have to return itter. All this back and forth.¡±


    It sounded just like what Zhu Cuiying said at that time.


    This is how Qiao Xiaomai hooked up with people!


    Tong Tiehu red at her, ¡°You shut up.¡± @@novelbin@@


    ¡°Grandpa, I really don¡¯t understand, with the audacity of Xiaomai who dared to sever ties with her own grandmother, aren¡¯t you afraid she¡¯ll treat you the same in the future?¡± Zhu Hongyun said.


    ¡°She¡¯s more obedient in front of me than you two, you both stop worrying about it.¡± Tong Tiehu snorted.


    Zhu Hongyun was speechless at his words.


    She couldn¡¯t help cursing inwardly, what a brown-noser!


    She truly did not want Qiao Xiaomai to marry into the Tong Family.


    Before, she disliked Qiao Xiaomai because Zhu Cuiying talked about her too much. But now, she disliked her even more because Tong Tiehu sided with Qiao Xiaomai, and on top of that, Xiaomai owned silver and fields, and her temperament was so unruly that not even the Emperor could handle her.


    Who would like such a sister-inw?


    ¡°Grandfather, her politeness towards you is only temporary, just to get into our family, think about it. Now, she is still a vige girl with a little bit of silver, but once she really gets together with San Lang, she would be married into an official family.¡±


    ¡°She was so ruthless towards the Sun Family, when you are no longer useful to her, she will undoubtedly treat you the same way she treated the Sun Family.¡±


    Zhu Hongyun began to exin this reasoning to Tong Tiehu respectfully and gently.


    With her limited intelligence, she had no idea that Qiao Xiaomai had a good rtionship with Yang Ye and was made known to Emperor Yongan.


    ¡°Moreover, look at her family, her father isme and her mother ran away, she must have brought disaster upon them, this kind¡­¡±


    ¡°Shut up!¡± Tong Tiehu was truly furious this time.


    Iler words were bing more and more outrageous!


    ¡°Zhang, confine your daughter-inw in her room, she¡¯s not allowed to go out or deliver food tomorrow!¡± he ordered sternly.


    Zhang, who had kept silent, said hesitantly, ¡°Father, isn¡¯t that a bit too much¡­¡± ¡°How is it too much? She¡¯s preparing to spread rumors! Who did she learn this bad habit from?!¡± Tong Tiehu mmed his chopsticks down on the table.


    Everyone present gave a start,pletely ceasing their eating.


    Tong Xingda frowned at Zhang, scolding her, ¡°Go now!¡±


    Then, he shot a re at Zhu Hongyun, ¡°What business does a daughter-inw have meddling in Sang¡¯s marriage matters?!¡±


    Zhang didn¡¯t dare dy any longer, quickly standing up, escorting the stunned Zhu Hongyun towards their room.


    Tong Er Lang was also a little shocked, with Tong Tiehu even mming his chopsticks, it was too frightening!


    He shrank back, grabbed two steamed buns, picked up a te of vegetables in front of him, and ran to his room, thinking, ¡°I¡¯ve got to fill up tonight!¡±


    Tong Tiehu frowned even deeper at the sight.


    Tong Xingda gave Tong Sang a look, he picked up the chopsticks Tong Tiehu had thrown down and went to the kitchen to get him a new pair.


    Tong Xingda said with augh, ¡°Father, don¡¯t be angry, eat! Xiaomai is a good girl, why don¡¯t we propose a marriage in a few days?¡±


    Previously, he disliked her because she had an impolite attitude towards him.


    But now, the situation was different.


    Qiao Xiaomai had special status in Emperor Yongan¡¯s presence and had a good rtionship with Yang Ye.


    Having such a daughter-inw to cover for them, capable of earning money, would definitely be beneficial to their family¡¯s ambitious ns!


    Tong Tiehu looked at Tong Sang upon hearing this, ¡°The matter of Sang¡¯s marriage will be decided by Sang himself.¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s just a child, we can¡¯t let him make a mess of such an important matter in life. Look at Er Lang¡¯s wife, we absolutely can¡¯t repeat such a mistake. We should send for the matchmaker in the next few days to propose marriage to the Qiao Family.¡±


    ¡°San Lang is not getting any younger, we can¡¯t dy it any longer..¡±

 Chapter 298: Holding Hands

    Chapter 298: Holding Hands


    Trantor: 549690339 |


    ¡°Yes, yes, I trust you, Uncle Four. But please be more cautious. After all, there are still 600 taels to pay back.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not about the silver!¡± Qiao Changkang emphasized again. ¡°I came here to ask for your forgiveness. The clues are secondary.¡±


    ¡°I trust you, Uncle Four. It¡¯ste. You should go home.¡± Qiao Xiaomai raised her arm and pointed to the entrance of the courtyard.


    ¡°Air, I¡¯ll go back now. But theseing days, don¡¯t reveal anything. Wait until we find concrete evidence, then we¡¯ll catch the thief red-handed.¡± Qiao Changkang stood up.


    ¡°Alright.¡± Qiao Xiaomai said politely, seeing Qiao Changkang out.


    After relocking the courtyard door and turning around, Tong Sang emerged from the storage shed.


    She said, ¡°I intend on letting them fight each other.¡±


    It would be best if they ended up hurting each other. She treated the silver she¡¯d thrown into this mess as the price of admission to a show.


    ¡°I know.¡± Tong Sang nodded. He hesitated for a moment, then suggested, ¡°How about 1 eavesdrop on Qiao Chang¡¯an from now on?¡±


    ¡°No need. Just let them squabble among themselves. There¡¯s 600 taels at stake here, Qiao Changkang will certainly bring the evidence voluntarily.¡± Qiao Xiaomai sighed, a bitter, mocking smile appearing on her face, ¡°I never imagined it would lead to this.¡±


    ¡°Silver, it really can bring about surprising effects.¡±


    Tong Sang fell silent for a moment, ¡°Does this remind you of the past?¡±


    ¡°It does, but it doesn¡¯t make me sad. I am just mocking the situation.¡± She clicked her tongue, ¡°Maybe because I¡¯ve nevercked money since i was little, I value other things more. I used to not understand why that scumbag would do such an unconscionable thing for money, but I understand now.¡±


    ¡°Coming here made me realize how even securing food can be a problem. This deepened my understanding.¡±


    ¡°Survival is, after all, the principle concern. Doing wrong things so that one can enjoy some good food and nicer clothes, that¡¯s not hard to understand. It¡¯s not unusual for tough conditions to breed dishonest people.¡±


    Tong Sang hesitated for a moment, then patted her shoulder, ¡°I¡¯m d even after experiencing bad things, you still have a kind heart.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai chuckled, rubbing her arm, ¡°You¡¯re going to give me goosebumps. Just because I¡¯ve suffered doesn¡¯t mean I¡¯ve be a different person.¡±


    She didn¡¯t suffer material hardships when she was young. The pain she went through was all emotional.


    It¡¯s strange to think that because of emotional hurt, one would be unkind.¡±


    ¡°Also, is this how youfort your girlfriend? By patting her on the shoulder?¡± Qiao Xiaomai raised an eyebrow.


    ¡°Ick dating experience. 1 don¡¯t do things smoothly and my words aren¡¯t precise.¡± Tong Sang was sincere. ¡°Please, Miss Xiaomai, teach me. What should I do? What should I say?¡±


    Even though they have been secretly meeting each other almost every night these days, they have only chatted without even holding hands. He had hesitated before patting her shoulder.


    ¡°Young man, learn for yourself.¡± Qiao Xiaomai patted Tong Sang¡¯s shoulder in return and took a step towards the small table.


    Tong Sang watched her delicate figure, and followed her. When he reached her, he held Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s left hand with his free right hand.


    Her hand was soft, warm, and smooth. The touch was so pleasant that his heart skipped several beats.


    Qiao Xiaomai looked at him with a bit of surprise. Seeing the anxiety on his handsome face, she couldn¡¯t help butugh. She ced her right hand over his, warm though slightly rough.


    Feeling something in his palm, she asked, ¡°Huh?¡±


    Tong Sang stiffened, holding his breath, ¡°What is it?¡±


    ¡°Young man, your hands don¡¯t match your face. 1 think you might need some hand cream.¡± Qiao Xiaomai said, feeling his hand again..

 Chapter 282: She is Looking for Ways to be with Him

    Chapter 282: She is Looking for Ways to be with Him


    Trantor: 549690339


    Qiao Xiaomai


    ¡°It¡¯s a matter that my Sixth Grandfather has been nning for most of his life, I can¡¯t even begin to imagine his reaction if those things were to disappear,¡± said Tong Sang honestly.


    Qiao Xiaomai held her forehead.


    Alright.


    She had oversimplified things.


    She initially thought it was a smart n to cut off the enemy¡¯s resources, but hearing Tong Sang put it this way, it seemed like an unprovoked provocation towards the Tong Family.


    ¡°When Sixth Grandfather went to study for the Imperial Examination, the responsibility of guarding these things fell upon my Grandfather. If these treasures were lost, it would result in dire consequences.¡±


    ¡°But, 1 heard from Xiaomei that these days Ma Dongshu has been wandering around the mountains. What if, by chance, he discovers the hidden treasure? That result would be far more severepared to your Sixth Grandfather¡¯s anger.¡±


    ¡°He won¡¯t find it. The secret tunnel built by my Great Grandmother is very well concealed.¡±


    ¡°You are that certain?¡±


    ¡°Yes. She was once able to appear here with these items, amidst enemy encirclement, 1 believe in her abilities.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai


    Alright.


    While she could make objects disappear, she was incapable of constructing secret tunnels or breaking through enemy encirclement.


    With a distressed look, she lifted her hand and rubbed her forehead, then began to sip at her Milk Tea.


    ¡°So, this is what you¡¯ve been thinking about these days?¡± Seeing her expression, Tong Sang felt a sudden warmth in his heart.


    ¡°Yes. 1 feel that your family is in danger, but I can¡¯t help but want to be close, so I thought about digging up the bomb under my house. However, with your Sixth Grandfather in the picture, this idea is moot.¡±


    What if the entric Tong Liu decided to strike at Tong Tiehu and Tong Sang?


    Sigh, how vexing.


    She put down her cup, picked up a chicken foot, and began savagely gnawing on it.


    How frustrating!


    It was so rare for her to encounter a man like Tong Sang, why did he have to bear such a fate?


    It was as if the heavens were toying with her!


    Looking at her troubled expression, Tong Sang couldn¡¯t help but let a smile y at the corners of his mouth, his dark eyes held a gentle mirth.


    Qiao Xiaomai wasn¡¯t choosing to back down.


    Neither did she blindly dere to share life and death with him.


    Instead, she proposed a solution.


    She was making an effort.


    She was making an effort to be with him.


    Her actions were sweeter than any words could express.


    She was truly captivating.


    For a moment, the anxiety that he had felt all night faded away like a receding tide, all that remained in his heart was her.


    How he wished, he could do as his father suggested tonight, to boldly go and propose marriage, and bring her home with mour and pride.


    ¡°Eh, how old is this Sixth Grandfather of yours?¡± Qiao Xiaomai, unaware of Tong Sang¡¯s thoughts, finished her chicken foot aggressively, pulled out a tissue from her space to wipe her hands, and then picked up her milk tea to drink again.


    Her bright peach blossom eyes stared intently at Tong Sang across from her, making her seem particrly attractive.


    Suppressing his agitation, Tong Sang replied, ¡°He¡¯s a year younger than my Grandfather, so he¡¯s fifty-nine.¡±


    ¡°Is he still physically hearty?¡±


    ¡°Yes, his health is better than my Grandfather¡¯s.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai


    With a soft cough, she acknowledged that anticipating Tong Liu to die naturally was not a likely possibility. @@novelbin@@


    ¡°After the harvest, my Grandfather and I are going to Capital City. My Grandfather wants to have a talk with Sixth Grandfather, we¡¯ll see then.¡± Tong Sang understood her meaning, and he also felt uneasy.


    It was truly disrespectful to specte about the lifespan of one¡¯s elders.


    ¡°I see.¡± Qiao Xiaomai was surprised and asked, ¡°Last time, I asked you about the preparations made by your Sixth Grandfather over the years. You didn¡¯t answer me.¡±


    ¡°He has contacted several influential Aristocratic Families.¡±


    ¡®Aristocratic Families¡¯ refer to families of high standing, with a lineage of governmental roles. These families, regardless of the former dynasty or Daqi, hold significant power..

 Chapter 283 - 283 This News is Powerful

    Chapter 283: This News is Powerful


    Trantor: 549690339 |


    ¡°Aristocratic families?¡± Qiao Xiaomai looked puzzled.


    Knowing that she was not a local, Tong Sang exined, ¡°In the past, the way officials were selected was through rmendation. It¡¯s when officials choose talented individuals from the areas they govern and report them to the court.¡± @@novelbin@@


    ¡°In the beginning, this method was quite effective and rmended many talented people to the court. But as time passed, and the court became corrupt and the Emperor inept, officials began to rmend their own rtives. With rtive after rtive being rmended, whole families full of officials began to expand. Their family members would hold office generation after generation, these are what we refer to as aristocratic families.¡±


    ¡°Being powerful aristocratic families, they filled the court with their own people and the Emperor was constantly constrained in his actions. That¡¯s when the Imperial Examination emerged.¡±


    ¡°The introduction of the Imperial Examination provided a way for schrs from the lower ss to be officials. As long as they passed the examination, they could leap over the dragon¡¯s gate.¡±


    ¡°The officials who got their positions through the examination were considered the Emperor¡¯s disciples, the people of the Emperor, and they were in conflict with the officials from the aristocratic families.¡±


    ¡°The current Emperores from a background of wealthyndlords, and in the eyes of the aristocratic families, he is just a poor pauper with no foundation, who is only managing to suppress the aristocratic families through military might. Therefore, there has always been a conflict between the Yang Family and the aristocratic families.¡±


    ¡°The owner of Zuixian Building, Shen Bai¡¯s father Shen Youxiang, represents the aristocratic families, while my sixth grandfather is the Left Chancellor. They have been at odds for years, but in actuality, my sixth grandfather and Shen Youxiang are on the same side.¡±


    ¡°Zuixian Building and Jiwiju have been in fiercepetition for years, all of which is staged for the outside world to see.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai¡±!!!!¡±


    Her beautiful eyes suddenly widened, Holy shit!


    What amazing news!


    Incredible!


    ¡°Wait a minute, let me catch my breath!¡± She raised her hand and made a pause gesture.


    The mastermind behind Jiwiju is the Left Chancellor, the Left Chancellor is Tong Sang¡¯s sixth grandfather, so the Tong Family is technically the owner of Jiwiju.


    Thinking back to her first encounter with Tong Sang at Jiwiju, she can¡¯t help but mmed her hand on the table.


    What aplex feeling!


    Tong Sang and Shopkeeper He had really put on a good act!


    And also Shopkeeper He and Shopkeeper Zhou.


    These two acted as if they couldn¡¯t wait for the other to go out of business tomorrow, but now Tong Sang tells her, the two families¡¯ owners are actually coborating!


    Damn Damn Damn!


    This is a lot of information to process!


    Each of them was acting like an award-winning actor!


    Seeing her reaction, Tong Sang exined, ¡°This is top-secret information. Shopkeeper He and Shopkeeper Zhou do not know, and Shen Bai also does not know.¡±


    ¡°Shen Bai doesn¡¯t know?¡± Qiao Xiaomai was shocked again.


    ¡°Yes, since he has a good rtionship with the Crown Prince, it¡¯s not appropriate to tell him about this.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai


    What a twist!


    What a drama!


    Ancient people sure know how to scheme!


    ¡°Shocked, aren¡¯t you?¡± Tong Sang smiled, but there was a hint of bitterness in his smile. He sighed, ¡°So, my sixth grandfather is actually tied up with the aristocratic families. Even if he wanted to withdraw, it wouldn¡¯t be easy.¡±


    ¡°I and my grandfather are going to the Capital City, mainly to persuade him to retire.¡±


    ¡°This might be the only way to get out of this muddy water.¡±


    ¡°However, the probability is slim. Neither my sixth grandfather himself nor the Shen Family would let go easily.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai


    She knew about the aristocratic families controlling the court and the decline of imperial power.


    This situation had also urred in the history of the dynasty.


    However, because she understood this, it made her even more worried.


    She thought it was just Tong Liu messing around, but it turns out he was tied up with the aristocratic families.


    The ship of the aristocratic families could indeed cause a big storm.


    As Tong Sang said, if Tong Liu wanted to jump ship, the chances were he would drown..

 Chapter 284: She Likes Me

    Chapter 284: She Likes Me


    Trantor: 549690339 I


    ¡°So, when will it all go down?¡± She struggled to speak, her throat tight.


    ¡°It¡¯s unclear. As you have seen, the current emperor is not a mediocre, helpless ruler. He is astute, hardworking, devoted to strengthening his rule, frugal, and loves his people. He has the military power of the Imperial Pce in Capital City firmly in his hands. Also, there are many top-level experts in the pce. An attempt to forcefully depose the emperor and kill him is not a viable path.¡±


    ¡°The other option is to seize the opportunity when there is a disaster and rebel, working our way from the local territories to Capital City.¡±


    ¡°If a war breaks out, this stash of treasure will undoubtedly be needed.¡±


    ¡°So, it¡¯s an indefinite wait.¡± With a sigh, Tong Sang concluded.


    Qiao Xiaomai¡±¡­¡±


    Damn, so this is like a sword always hanging over her head, an indefinite torment!


    ¡°Does the Prime Minister know about this treasure?¡± She ventured to ask.


    ¡°He doesn¡¯t. He sees Grandfather Liu as a country bumpkin who wed his way up from the bottom. While both families are in the same boat, they are not in harmony with each other, and their only goal is to topple the Yang family¡¯s reign over Mount Jiang.¡±


    ¡°Once the Yang family is overthrown, the two families will surely engage in a battle.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai¡±¡­¡± @@novelbin@@


    Damn, damn, damn.


    The Yang family¡¯s reign over Mount Jiang is currently as secure as an iron barrel. However, the Shen family and Liu Liu haven¡¯t even consolidated yet, and they are already indulging in internal strife.


    With this level of nning, it would be ludicrous if their rebellion seeded.


    The worry on her small face inevitably grew deeper, and her gaze at Tong Sang was full of resentment.


    A bitter smile appeared on Tong Sang¡¯s handsome face, ¡°You should live a peaceful life, not live each day on tenterhooks.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai¡±¡­¡±


    She silently gazed at the young man seated across from her, an indescribable frustration welled up in her heart.


    This damned reality!


    ¡°So, you¡¯ll remain single all this while?¡± After a lengthy silence, she asked.


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°Then I¡¯ll stay single for now too.¡±


    For now.


    The word ¡°for now¡± tightened Tong Sang¡¯s heart. What did she mean?


    ¡°I think, this won¡¯t continue indefinitely. Ma Dongshu has always been wandering on the mountain, hasn¡¯t he? Yang Ye invited him all the way over here; he must have some real skills. Although his skills may not match those of your great grandmother, he shouldn¡¯t be incapable of finding the treasure, right?¡±


    ¡°This won¡¯t drag on for too long.¡±


    ¡°So, you should consider the consequences of the treasure being discovered.¡±


    ¡°Until then, I¡¯ll stay single, waiting for your result.¡±


    Tong Sang was stunned.


    Looking at Qiao Xiaomai, his heart was like an overturned bottle of mixed vors, with all sorts of taste blending together.


    Of course, the bitterness was the most prominent.


    Many momentster, a lightugh emerged on his handsome face, ¡°Fine.¡±


    That was an unexpected answer.


    Qiao Xiaomai, she likes him.


    In the past, she was content with merely spending more time with him, but now, she really likes him.


    This was a pleasing reality.


    Made him want tough.


    It was also a rational decision, which he entirely endorsed.


    ¡°What can I do for you?¡± Seeing his smile, a bitter feeling surged in Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s heart.


    ¡°You don¡¯t need to do anything. Just live your little life well.¡± Tong Sang gently shook his head, ¡°The Sun family and Sun Junyan are walking into a dead-end, so be careful. I fear that they might harm you out of desperation.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai¡±¡­¡±


    Why suddenly change the topic to the Sun family? What a killjoy.


    She sniffed dismissively, ¡°Rest assured, Sun Junyan doesn¡¯t have the courage for a do-or-die resistance. As long as there¡¯s even a sliver of hope, he¡¯ll clench on to life. I think he¡¯s likely racking his brain on how to climb up, not on dueling with me.¡±


    ¡°Just in case.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s small face crinkled, with unhappiness she said, ¡°Don¡¯t bring him up, let¡¯s eat.¡±


    She pointed at the food on the table, ¡°If you want to eat, you cane to me every night.¡±


    ¡°Can Ie find you even if I don¡¯t want to eat?¡±

 Chapter 302: The Bet, It’s You

    Chapter 302: The Bet, It¡¯s You


    Trantor: 549690339 |


    Yang Wang chuckled, ¡°Fourth Brother, do you think 1 can scare a woman brave enough to stab herself?¡±


    Unlike Yang Ye, this handsome man, Yang Wang has a round face, cold and stern features, and a tall, robust physique. One nce is enough to tell that he¡¯s not a friendly person, causing many officials to tread carefully around him when they see him.


    He knew this himself, but he doubted that his stern look would have any effect on Qiao Xiaomai.


    Would he scare a woman who dared to confront Cen Hong head-on?


    Ha.


    ¡°You can¡¯t really say it like that, she was desperate that day. The situation is different today. Thepetition is secondary, friendship is the first priority.¡± Yang Ye then asked, ¡°Third Brother, what¡¯s the bet? Shouldn¡¯t you reveal it now?¡±


    Yang Wang¡¯s gaze remained on Qiao Xiaomai. As she approached, her face became clearer.


    Despite Bai Zhi and Cen Hong¡¯sments about Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s attractiveness, her face still surprised him.


    She kept her head slightly lowered, her coarse linen clothes couldn¡¯t hide her charming features. A simple country girl was unexpectedly as beautiful as a nobledy from Capital City.


    Such an enchanting face, yet such a fierce personality.


    Yang Wang¡¯s mouth curled up, a hint of interest appeared on his face, ¡°The bet, well, let¡¯s say it¡¯s Qiao Xiaomai herself. If she loses, she¡¯lle back with me to the Wang Residence.¡±


    Hl


    As soon as he said this, Yang Ye turned his head to look at Yang Wang, his phoenix eyes wide open, filled with surprise.


    Seeing that Yang Wang did not seem to be joking, heughed twice and closed his fan with a swoosh. ¡°Third Brother, what if you lose?¡±


    ¡°I won¡¯t.¡±


    ¡°In a contest, it¡¯s inappropriate to only put Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s chips at stake. I¡¯m involved in thispetition too. She represents my reputation, Third Brother, you can¡¯t bully people like this.¡±


    Yang Wang thought for a moment, then said, ¡°1 have a Hot Spring Vi in the suburbs. If I lose, I¡¯ll give you that vi, how about it?¡±


    Yang Ye snapped his fingers, ¡°Agreed then, Third Brother! You can now send a message to Capital City and have your men prepare the vi for my men to take over.¡±


    With that, he stood up, his hands sped behind his back, and jumped off the high tform.


    Qiao Xiaomai and Tong Sang arrived, and he greeted them with a cheerful smile. ¡°You¡¯re here.¡±


    ¡°Your Highness.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t be so polite, get up there and beat him!¡± Yang Ye pointed at a chubby man in his fifties who was standing on the high tform. ¡°He¡¯s a retired chef from the Imperial Kitchen. His culinary skills are superb, don¡¯t underestimate him.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai looked over, responding, ¡°Alright.¡±


    ¡°My third brother just made a bet. If you win, we both will get his Hot Spring Vi. If he wins, you¡¯ll go back to the Wang Residence with him.¡± Yang Ye added.


    Qiao Xiaomai¡±¡­¡±


    Yang Ye felt quite embarrassed and raised his fan to exin. However, Qiao Xiaomai raised her hand, signaling him not to speak, ¡°It¡¯s okay, I¡¯m used to it.¡±


    Yang Ye


    He choked on the exnation he had almost given.


    He was even mocking himself!


    He coughed lightly and put on a serious expression on his handsome face, ¡°Get on the stage, thepetition is about to start.¡±


    With that, he turned around and climbed onto the high tform first.


    Qiao Xiaomai turned to look at Tong Sang.


    Tong Sang signaled her to go up with a cid expression.


    Feeling relieved, she stepped onto the high tform.


    Yang Ye introduced her and Tong Sang to Yang Wang, the two bowed, ¡°Greetings to Your Highness Wang.¡±


    Yang Wang was sitting in his chair, raised his hand and signaled the two to ignore the formalities. His sharp eyesnded on Qiao Xiaomai, he suddenly broke into a grin, ¡°As for the bet, it¡¯s you..¡±

 Chapter 286: The Beauty of Mutual Love

    Chapter 286: The Beauty of Mutual Love


    Trantor: 549690339 |


    A little fairy?


    Tong Sang lowered his eyes somewhat embarrassed, at first he had suspected as much, but he quickly dismissed the idea.


    Back then, he was more worried that Qiao Xiaomai would stir up trouble and affect his family¡¯s rebellion ns.


    Now seeing Qiao Xiaomaiughing so happily, he felt embarrassed because she indeed turned out to be a little fairy.


    Awkward.


    Still, he mustered the courage, looked up, ¡°I didn¡¯t think you were a little fairy then. 1 was more cautious about you, afraid that you would discover my family¡¯s secret.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai¡¯sughter stopped abruptly.


    He touched his nose ufortably and continued, ¡°But, it¡¯s precisely because 1 had my guard up against you that I observed you more. And as I continued to observe, unwittingly, my heart fell for you.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai was speechless¡­


    She wrinkled her nose and huffed, ¡°Do I look like a troublemaker?¡±


    ¡°No, no, no, a good citizen! You are a good citizen, the kind that lives a stable and genuine life. I¡¯m the troublemaker. 1 apologize for misunderstanding you that day.¡± Tong Sang immediately apologized.


    Qiao Xiaomai huffed again, ¡°Considering everything, I¡¯ll let it go.¡±


    She pointed to the dish in front of them and whispered, ¡°Come on, young man, tell me about your journey of falling for me.¡±


    While saying so, she took out a few packs of sunflower seeds from the storage space, preparing for a long talk.


    Too bad she didn¡¯t drink. It would¡¯ve been perfect to have some wine at this moment.


    In vino veritas, right?


    Looking at her expectant expression, Tong Sang chuckled and started to tell his story while picking some seeds.


    It waste at night, under a sparse sky full of stars, they were sitting in the courtyard, leaning their heads together over a small table¡ªone was talking while the other wasughing.


    They didn¡¯t know about the future.


    Neither of them wanted to turn into strangers, but they hadn¡¯t progressed so far as to get married yet.


    So, after much hesitation and struggle, they made a choice: to fall in love secretly.


    All they could do was seize the moment, join hands and move forward together.


    They didn¡¯t sleep a wink that night.


    For the next few days, their schedules werepletely reversed. They would secretly talk in the courtyard for a long time every night.


    These secret meetings felt both exciting and delightful to both of them.


    Through these dates, they got to know each other much better.


    Both of them had been through much since childhood¡ªone had struggled with a wicked stepmother and weak father, while the other lived in constant secrecy knowing his family would rebel one day.


    Their environments and worlds were different, but thankfully, they both possessed qualities such as integrity, kindness, diligence, responsibility, and even the selfishness of giving up responsibilities for each other.


    Such qualities formed a convergence of moral values and personality.


    They could chat about anything without disagreement over certain matters. They felt joyful when together and would smile when thinking about each other when apart.


    This feeling, it¡¯s truly wonderful.


    Over the past few days, Qiao Xiaomai had thanked the time travel gods countless times. It¡¯s hard to even find friends who hit it off so well, not to mention a lover.


    Moreover, her lover was a perfect match in terms of age, appearance, and family background.


    How many people could encounter such luck?


    With their feelings growing warmer, her leg injury finally healedpletely.


    She no longer needed to drink medicine or observe rest. Excitedly, she could finally move around as she pleased!


    Just as she was preparing to celebrate her regained freedom, Yang Ye seemed to have eyes everywhere and arrived right when she was about to step out.


    His white brocade attire seemed quite out of ce in the small mountain vige of Anping.


    ¡°Miss Qiao, has your leg healed?¡±


    ¡°Yes, it has.¡± Qiao Xiaomai nodded honestly.


    ¡°All, it seems that the medicines 1 sent were put to good use.¡± Yang Ye unfolded the fan in his hand, his phoenix eyes shaping into crescents.


    Qiao Xiaomai blushed and giggled, ¡°Thank you, Your Highness.¡± @@novelbin@@


    ¡°It¡¯s nothing, today, I came here to¡­¡±


    Before he could finish, shouts from Chen Gun came from outside the courtyard, ¡°Xiaomai, Xiaomai, it¡¯s terrible! Our wheat field was set on fire!¡±

 Chapter 287 - 287 Trouble Comes Again

    Chapter 287: Trouble Comes Again


    Trantor: 549690339 |


    The wheat got burned?!


    Qiao Xiaomai did not care about Yang Ye in front of her and quickly left the courtyard, ¡°What happened?!¡±


    Chen Gun huffed and puffed, exining, ¡°1 don¡¯t know, 1 was just about to go to the field when I ran into Du Qing¡¯ai. She has gone to find the Vige Chief. Upon seeing me she asked to ry the message to you.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai stomped her foot, ¡°I¡¯ll go take a look!¡±


    She turned around and looked at Yang Ye with hesitation, ¡°Prince¡­¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s go together.¡± Yang Ye closed the fan in his hand and pointed to the empty cattle shed, ¡°1 have a horse carriage.¡±


    At this time in the morning, Qiao Changshun, Qiao Dami, and the workers had already taken the ox-cart to the wheat fields, and if Qiao Xiaomai wanted to go, she would have to go on foot.


    Thest wheat field harvested was over ten miles away from Anping Vige. Walking was too slow. With this in mind, Qiao Xiaomai did not refuse and nodded, ¡°Thank you, Prince.¡±


    ¡°No need to be formal.¡± Yang Ye waved his hand and walked toward the courtyard exit.


    Qiao Xiaomai locked the courtyard door and got into Yang Ye¡¯s carriage.


    Yang Ye¡¯s carriage was very luxurious andfortable, but when galloping on the bumpy countryside roads, the passengers inside couldn¡¯t help but sway back and forth.


    Yang Ye, ustomed to such rough roads, casually leaned against the soft cushion, his posture graceful, his phoenix eyes half-closed, looking like a beautiful big cat dozing off.


    Qiao Xiaomai sat at the carriage entrance and asked, seeing him like this, ¡°Your Highness, did youe to see me today for some business?¡±


    Upon hearing this, Yang Ye opened his phoenix eyes and nodded, ¡°Indeed, there is something.¡±


    ¡°What is it?¡±


    ¡°That Cen Hong had originally gone back to the Capital City, but 1 don¡¯t know what my father was thinking. He sent him to Yichang Prefecture. Yesterday, he showed up again in Bailu Town. And it¡¯s not just him alone, my third brother has also arrived.¡±


    Huai¡¯an County is under the jurisdiction of Yichang Prefecture, which is akin to a province inter generations.


    Cen Hong hade to serve as the guard of Yichang Prefecture.


    As for Yang Ye¡¯s third brother, his name is Yang Wang, another prince, Duke Duan.


    This prince holds real power. He is Minister of Revenue of Daqi, controlling the poption and finances of Daqi. In addition to this, he is also the son of Concubine Li and is dearly loved by Emperor Yong¡¯an.


    With such a noble personing to Yong¡¯an Town, Qiao Xiaomai couldn¡¯t help being surprised, ¡°Why did hee?¡±


    ¡°Officially, he is supposed to visit headmaster Gu. But actually, he came to see you. He heard from Bai Zhi about your cooking skills, so he brought a chef specifically topete with you.¡±


    Yang Ye rubbed his temples with some headache, ¡°I¡¯m really sorry for all this trouble.¡±


    He looked apologetic on his handsome face, ¡°Cen Hong is my third brother¡¯s man. My third brother hase to regain face for him.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai @@novelbin@@


    Ever since she met Yang Ye, all he gave her was trouble.


    First, he wanted her to be his kitchen maid, then came Bai Zhi, after which came Cen Hong, and now theing of Duke Duan.


    Her eyes turned resentful. Were the benefits of being in good rtion with Yang Ye worth these waves of troubles?


    Yang Ye ufortably yed with the folding fan in his hand, his thick eyebrows slightly furrowed, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, no matter what stakes my third brother proposes, I¡¯ll cover for you. You just have to dare topete.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai still looked at him resentfully.


    He clicked his tongue a few times, pped his chest, and promised, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, if you win, my third brother wouldn¡¯t dare to do anything to you. You are now under the protection of my father, the Emperor, if you receive any unfair treatment, my father would definitely take a stand for you.¡±


    ¡°As long as you do what¡¯s right, there¡¯s no need to be afraid! If anything happens, I will bring it up to my father!¡±

 Chapter 288: Nearly Ten Thousand Kilograms of Wheat are Gone

    Chapter 288: Nearly Ten Thousand Kilograms of Wheat are Gone


    Trantor: 549690339


    Upon hearing this, Qiao Xiaomai blinked, the resentment in her eyes fading.


    It was indeed true, she had a good impression of Emperor Yongan.


    For a feudal emperor to do this much, it was rather touching.


    Seeing her regain herposure, Yang Ye immediately abandoned his embarrassed demeanor. He fanned himself with the unfolded fan, leisurely nced at her, in a conspicuously in-your-face-rich-guy style said, ¡°Don¡¯t worry about what happened earlier. No matter how much wheat was burned, I will make up for it.¡±


    ¡°Nopensation is needed, it wasn¡¯t much.¡± Qiao Xiaomai shook her head.


    The wheat harvest was essentially over by now, and everyone was nting crops like Xiaomi, sweet potatoes, soybeans, and so on. Hernd was vast. The yield was slower, but there wasn¡¯t much left at present, just over twenty acres. All this wheat was piled up in the threshing area, and there was no time to thresh it.


    ¡°How much is it?¡± Yang Ye asked.


    ¡°If not counting the straw, it is a few thousand kilograms.¡±


    ¡°Yo! Miss Qiao, your bottom line is strong, considering a few thousand kilograms of wheat isn¡¯t much?¡± Yang Ye raised his eyebrows.


    Qiao Xiaomai remained emotionless.


    Thisnd was top-notch. Qiao Changshun said the yield could reach over four hundred kilograms per acre, meaning over ten thousand kilogramsbined for more than twenty acres.


    Over ten thousand kilograms of wheat!


    A kilogram for three coins, thirty thousand coins, thirty taels of silver!


    Thirty taels may not seem much, but when converted to wheat, ten thousand kilograms, it is like a mountain!


    The reason she said so was just to reject Yang Ye¡¯spensation, but he was insistent on pointing it out. Her hurt soul was bleeding internally, okay!


    ¡°Finding the one who burned the wheat is the most important.¡± She said.


    Yang Ye snapped his fingers, ¡°Eight or nine out of ten, it¡¯s the Sun Family. They couldn¡¯t get by themselves, so they couldn¡¯t stand seeing you do well.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Qiao Xiaomai frowned, ¡°Then they should have burned the civilian homes, not the wheat fields.¡±


    ¡°Maybe she didn¡¯t want to go down with you, but she couldn¡¯t swallow her pride, so she just burned your wheat.¡± Yang Ye was now sure of his hypothesis. He continued, ¡°In my opinion, we should send someone to search her shanty now; you may find a lot of wheat.¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s so poor she can¡¯t even eat, she couldn¡¯t have burned all that wheat, could she?¡±


    His analysis made sense, Qiao Xiaomai nodded, ¡°Let¡¯s check it outter; let¡¯s go to the wheat fields first.¡± @@novelbin@@


    When they arrived at the wheat fields, they could see a vast area of scorchednd from afar. The wheat from over twenty acres had turned into ashes.


    There were many people standing at the edge of the threshing ground. The wrinkles on Qiao Changshun¡¯s face seemed to have deepened even further, making him appear several years older. Qiao Dami sat on the bullock cart in silence.


    Tong Tiehu and Tong Sang were also present, both of them looked serious.


    Tong Sang was the first one to spot the carriage. He watched it approach from afar, and as it neared the edge of the threshing ground, he walked towards it.


    By this time, everyone else was also looking over.


    Qiao Xiaomai and Yang Ye jumped down from the carriage. Just as Tong Sang and the others were about to salute, Yang Ye raised his hand and asked, ¡°What¡¯s the current situation?¡±


    ¡°Your Highness, the wheat from the twenty-three acres has all burned to ashes.¡± Tong Sang replied. He casually nced at Qiao Xiaomai and found she was also staring intently at him. His heart suddenly warmed.


    He added, ¡°This ce is close to Dazhou Vige. My grandfather had some vigers inquire, but they found no useful information.¡±


    If it were during the bustling wheat harvest season, many people would guard the wheat fields at night to prevent theft.


    But the wheat harvest was basically over, and this ce was not close to Dazhou Vige. In the dead of the night, arge fire zed for a long time, yet the people in Dazhou Vige werepletely oblivious.


    ¡°Isn¡¯t Miss Qiao¡¯s main enemy the Sun Family? Go find her, it¡¯s very likely she¡¯s the one behind it.¡±


    Yang Ye shared his suspicion.


    ¡°Your Highness is absolutely right.¡± Tong Sang looked towards Tong Tiehu.


    Tong Tiehu nodded, ¡°Changshun and a few of us will go find the Sun Family, and everyone else can disperse.¡±


    So, the others went back to the vige, while Qiao Changshun, Qiao Dami, Tong Sang, Tong Tiehu, Qiao Xiaomai, and Yang Ye headed towards the Sun Family¡¯s shack..

 Chapter 289: It’s not me!

    Chapter 289: It¡¯s not me!


    Trantor: 549690339 |


    The shack Sun Family and Sun Junyan lived in, although called a shack, was in fact a wooden house. The weather was not too hot when they were chased out of the vige. To ensure that this mother-son duo wouldn¡¯t catch a cold, the shack was built to be wind-tight and waterproof.


    Tree trunks as thick as a baby¡¯s arm were secured together with wires to form wooden panels, which served as walls that wind could not prate and rain could not seep through.


    And because they were the mother and son, there were proper distinctions made between men and women, Tong Tiehu therefore built two separate rooms.


    Furthermore, the ground inside this wooden house, although erected in the fields, was pressed as t and firm as the threshing floor.


    Under these conditions, anyone who saw this would praise Tong Tiehu for his righteousness.


    Even though his own grandson had been publicly humiliated, he still managed to construct such a good wooden house. This vige chief is really a good man!


    Also, conveniently located next to the field was a well, which the vigers used to irrigate their crops. This solved the mother and son¡¯s water needs.


    The house was new, there was water for domestic use, and they could tend to the fields without walking a step out of their home.


    What¡¯s more, this ce was tranquil. They could cook whatever they fancied without the fear of their secret recipes being leaked.


    With such conditions, it felt to Qiao Xiaomai like they had moved into a new house.


    Tong Tiehu was too kind-hearted!


    When they were approaching, they could see Sun Family sitting at the door, grinding grains; besides her, there was arge pile of grains totalling hundreds of catties.


    Sun Junyan was nowhere to be seen.


    Yang Ye snapped his fingers and pointed with the fan he held at Sun Family.


    ¡°See, everything I said was not false.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai raised her eyebrows and secretly clenched her teeth.


    The Sun Family had been reduced to such a state that even if they sold their pathetic lives, they wouldn¡¯t fetch ten thousand catties of grain, goddammit!


    Damn it!


    Yang Ye happened to be watching her out of the corner of his eyes and noticed her grinding her teeth, so heughed and said, ¡°As I said, 1 willpensate you.¡±


    ¡°No need. If Sun Family really did it, she will receive the punishment she deserves. I¡¯ll be very happy if she suffers. As for the grain, consider it as my purchase of a goodugh.¡± She squeezed those words out through her grit teeth.


    ¡°Why are you being so courteous with me?¡±Yang Ye was greatly impressed by Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s skill. He respected those with true talent.


    Moreover, Qiao Xiaomai was skilled in his favorite culinary art.


    He genuinely wanted to have a good rtionship with Qiao Xiaomai.


    ¡°And now that we have the evidence, it¡¯s highly likely that Sun Family did it.¡± He added with certainty.


    ¡°Thank you for your kindness, Your Highness, but I can¡¯t ept yourpensation without good reason.¡± Qiao Xiaomai forced a smile, ¡°Whether it was indeed Sun Family or not, we need to ask her first.¡± @@novelbin@@


    While they were talking, the carriage had reached the vicinity of the wooden house. Sun Family stood up, her face full of suspicion and disgust, but she kept herposure.


    She didn¡¯t look flustered at all like someone who had done something wrong should be.


    She even took the initiative to ask, ¡°What are you here for?¡±


    Her tone was unfriendly.


    Yang Ye and Qiao Xiaomai got off the carriage, followed by Qiao Changshun, Qiao Dami, Tong Sang, and Tong Tiehu who got off the bullock cart. With an expressionless face, Tong Sang pointed to the pile of grain in front of the wooden house, ¡°Where did these grainse from?¡±


    ¡°My son gave them to me.¡± Sun Family was initially standing with her hands on her hips, but upon seeing Yang Ye, she instantly became less defiant. Not only did she put her hands down, her voice also weakened considerably.


    This nobleman was of too high a status, so high that she couldn¡¯t even arouse the feeling of hate or loathe towards him.


    ¡°Which son gave them to you?¡± Tong Sang frowned and asked.


    ¡°My eldest, my second, and my third. I am their mother. I was starving to death, they wouldn¡¯t let me starve to death, would they?¡± Sun Family replied..

 Chapter 307: No Mood to Celebrate

    Chapter 307: No Mood to Celebrate


    Trantor: 549690339 |


    Yang Wang conceded defeat so readily, which surprised Yang Ye. His handsome face was full of confusion, ¡°Eh? Third Brother, what are you up to?¡±


    ¡°What are you talking about? It¡¯s not about me scheming¡­ it¡¯s about Miss Qiao¡¯s amazing skill. I admit defeatpletely,¡± said Yang Wang.


    Yang Ye raised an eyebrow, his scrutinising gaze sweeping up and down Yang Wang, from top to bottom, again and again.


    Yang Wang remained unruffled, hands behind his back, allowing the scrutiny.


    After a moment, Yang Ye smirked, ¡°Then, Third Brother, you¡¯d better send word to your people. I¡¯ve been looking forward to that Hot Spring Vi for a while now.¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡± Yang Wang immediately called his attendant to send the message to the Capital City.


    ¡°Well then, everybody can go now. It¡¯s noon already, time for lunch.¡± Yang Ye waved his hand, indicating that the watching students should go do their things.


    The students were ready for this. After all, they could only watch, not eat. Rather than standing under the hot sun here, they decided to leave.


    The students dispersed quickly in small groups. Just as Yang Ye was about to speak to the judges, Principal Gu spoke up with a big smile, ¡°Your Highness, I think we shouldbine the dishes made by Miss Qiao and Chef Niu, and hold a small feast to celebrate the harvest. How¡¯s that?¡±


    ¡°Good idea, Bailu Town has had a bumper wheat harvest this year. We must celebrate¡­ let¡¯s head back to the small courtyard.¡± Mrs. Gu also chimed in enthusiastically, inviting Yang Ye and Yang Wang.


    Yang Ye


    He was nning to send the judges away, wanting the Buddha Jumps Over the Wall all to himself. But now this couple wanted to hold a harvest feast.


    What the hell?


    What does it have to do with him?


    They even concocted such ame excuse just to have a meal!


    Where¡¯s the dignity?


    ¡°Yes, let¡¯s also invite Miss Qiao. She has 500 acres of farnd. In the whole of Daqi, that¡¯s top-notch. I assume her family¡¯s wheat harvest must have been bountiful this year. We must celebrate.¡± Yang Ye grumbled to himself, but Yang Wang agreed with Principal Gu¡¯s suggestion.


    Yang Ye


    Qiao Xiaomai ¡°¡­¡±


    She responded modestly, ¡°Your Highness, my family¡¯s twenty-three acres of wheat were just burnt down to ashes. I really don¡¯t feel like celebrating.¡±


    ¡°You indeed had a busy bout there; you must be tired. Miss Qiao, you may return to the vige with Yang Wang. I¡¯ll send someone to invite you in a few days.¡± Yang Ye waved his hand, indicating Qiao Xiaomai to leave first.


    Hmm, Yang Wang¡¯s little tricks, he could guess with his pinky finger.


    If that¡¯s the case, he obviously couldn¡¯t let Qiao Xiaomai stay.


    ¡°Thankyou for your consideration, Your Highness.¡± Qiao Xiaomai bowed, then turned and walked toward the stairs.


    Tong Sang followed closely behind her. The two of them descended from the tform, one after the other.


    They didn¡¯t take anything, their hands were empty. They walked quickly towards the carriage.


    ¡°Alright, let¡¯s go and start the feast. Third Brother, let¡¯s go.¡± Yang Ye showed an affectionate smile, stretched out his long arm, and put it around Yang Wang¡¯s shoulder, ¡°Master Gu has some fine wine hidden away. It was given to him by our father when he retired. Now, it smells so mellow!¡±


    Yang Ye put more strength into his arm and, with a pull and a drag, led Yang Wang toward the amodation area.


    Yang Wang finally took his brooding gaze off from Qiao Xiaomai. He looked at Yang Ye and gave a chuckle, ¡°As you wish, Brother. Let¡¯s enjoy ourselves to the fullest today.¡±


    ¡°By the way, what happened to Miss Qiao¡¯s wheat field? Twenty-three acres burnt down is a big deal. I think we should conduct our own investigation when we have time.¡±

 Chapter 308: You, In Charge of Beauty Like a Flower

    Chapter 308: You, In Charge of Beauty Like a Flower


    Trantor: 549690339 |


    ¡°Oh wow, a tiny grain got burned and it got you worrying, Third Brother, needless to say. You¡¯ve been in Bailu Town for a few days already, when do you n to return to Capital City?¡± Yang Ye broached the subject while smiling.


    ¡°The people and thend are exceptional in Bailu Town, so naturally, 1 want to stay for a few more days.¡± Yang Wang also responded with a smile.


    ¡°I also find the residents and thend outstanding. The Academy has so many students from all over Daqi. Under the tutge of Master Gu, they have all be talented individuals. So, who among them caught your eye?¡±


    At this, Yang Wang¡¯s smile remained on his face, but his heart jolted.


    Yang Ye was simply an idle prince, so it didn¡¯t matter how long he stayed, but it was not the case for him.


    The Emperor did not fancy ministers forming factions within the court. He, being the Minister of Revenue who holds significant power, and considering there were quite a few children of senior officials and future officials in the academy, if he stayed here too long, would the Emperor think that he was cultivating loyalists in secret?


    ¡°Forget about all these exceptional people andnd talk, today we only discuss the harvest, let¡¯s get going.¡± Principal Gu followed up, steering the conversation towards the feast with augh.


    Yang Ye snapped his fingers, said with augh, ¡°Exactly, no rest until drunk.¡±


    Suppressing the odd feeling in his heart, Yang Wang also nodded with a smile, ¡°No rest until drunk.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai.


    It seems a swift battle is in order.


    After exiting the Academy, Qiao Xiaomai and Tong Sang allowed Yang Ye¡¯s men to go first, and they began to stroll around the town.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go to Extreme Taste Residence.¡± Tong Sang suggested.


    Qiao Xiaomai nodded.


    They had been busy for so long, and the enticing aroma had been lingering in the air around them all the while, she was hungry now.


    At Extreme Taste Residence, they got a private room on the second floor, ordered a few of the signature dishes, and started to eat at a rxed pace.


    ¡°Later, 1¡¯11 buy some dried abalone and scallops to bring home. That Buddha jumping over the wall dish, I want to try making it again.¡± Qiao Xiaomai said, ¡°I can¡¯t get enough of the smell, even when 1 made it before, it wasn¡¯t even half as fragrant as this.¡±


    ¡°Just take it straight from the Extreme Taste Residence, put it on my ount.¡± Tong Sang said.


    ¡°Ohoho.¡± Qiao Xiaomai couldn¡¯t help butugh, ¡°Feels like I¡¯vetched onto a wealthy guy.¡±


    ¡°But isn¡¯t it your grandfather who manages the ounts for Extreme Taste Residence? Isn¡¯t this a bit inappropriate?¡±


    ¡°Once we get home I¡¯ll talk to my grandfather about this. Truth is, I¡¯ve been the one managing the ledgers for Extreme Taste Residence in Bailu Town, which allows me frequently visit under the guise of selling game. I¡¯ve been working for free for so many years, now that there¡¯s a girl I cherish, it¡¯s time I start drawing a sry.¡±


    Listening to this, Qiao Xiaomai looked at Tong Sang¡¯s handsome face, the corners of her mouth involuntarily curling upwards.


    ¡°Being an unpaidborer isn¡¯t all that bad, you¡¯re not really in need of spending money anyway.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t 1 now have a ce to spend money? Although 1 do have some loose change, it¡¯s too scarce. 1 want to be able to buy you something every now and again.¡± Tong Sang looked up, his shiny ck eyes focused on her, his face serious.


    He handed over his private savings to Qiao Xiaomai.


    And decided to give her his sry in the future as well.


    But when he¡¯s out with Qiao Xiaomai, he still wants to buy her something.


    Yes, even if he were to hand all his money over to Qiao Xiaomai, when she wants to buy something, he still hopes to be the one who purchases it for her.


    So, this means he needs to earn money, earn money, and earn more money.


    In the past, without a reason to spend money, Tong Tiehu used his young age as the reason to limit his ie. But unsurprisingly, the situation is different now.


    The benefits he should get, must be realized!


    Qiao Xiaomai held his gaze, her euphoric smile reaching her eyes as the corners of her mouth curled even more, forming two cute dimples on her cheeks. She said, her almond-shaped eyes curved like crescent moons, ¡°It¡¯s only a matter of doing the ounts; it shouldn¡¯t earn you more than a few coppers anyway. In the future, you might as well just continue working for me.¡±


    ¡°I have skills, in the future, I will work and provide for our home, and you just have to continue being as beautiful as a flower..¡±

 Chapter 309: She’s Flirting with Him!

    Chapter 309: She¡¯s Flirting with Him!


    Trantor: 549690339 I


    Tong Sang unconsciously furrowed his sword-like brows, ¡°I, am considered as beautiful as a flower?¡±


    ¡°Did 1 ever praise your face? Your face deserves these four words,¡± Qiao Xiaomai lifted her hand and gave him a thumbs up.


    Tong Sang


    Seeing his speechless face, Qiao Xiaomai raised her eyebrows, ¡°Just that pot of Buddha¡¯s Temptation just now, be it at Extreme Taste or Zuixian Building, if you want to buy it, it¡¯s not for sale without a thousand taels.¡±


    Tong Sang


    Qiao Xiaomai began tough, ¡°So, how about it? Can 1 support a family with my money-making capabilities?¡±


    Tong Sang


    He could also do quite a lot, but to earn so much money all at once¡­


    He could only rob.


    ¡°Nothing to say, right?¡± Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s small face was full of smugness.


    Tong Sang nodded.


    ¡°So, just be at ease and follow me. I¡¯ll support our family, and you can just be my helper. We¡¯ll eat meat and drink soup together in the future.¡± Qiao Xiaomai patted his shoulder with a hearty tone.


    Tong Sang felt her sincerity towards him.


    Conversely, she also had genuine feelings for him.


    For something as trivial as who pays when shopping, she really didn¡¯t care, especially since Tong Sang gave her all his private money.


    io


    You can¡¯t force a seventeen-year-old boy to rack his brain to make money, having sincerity is enough!


    She has received all of his affection for her!


    ¡°Are you afraid that I¡¯ll be tired?¡± Tong Sang seriously pondered over her words and asked uncertainly.


    ¡°Yes.¡± Qiao Xiaomai honestly admitted.


    ¡°How could I be tired doing things for you.¡± Just thinking about doing something for her, he felt an endless strength throughout his body!


    ¡°If you have extra energy, focus on romancing me, don¡¯t overthink.¡±


    Tong Sang


    ¡°Like 1 said, I don¡¯t care about money. What I care about is feelings.¡± Qiao Xiaomai took a scoop of soup with her hand and slowly sipped it, saying, ¡°Don¡¯t think too much, everything is fine now.¡±


    Tong Sang looked at her, smacked his lips, then began tough.


    ¡°Okay.¡± He nodded.


    ¡°Good boy.¡± Qiao Xiaomai smiled in satisfaction, took a spoonful of soup from the bowl, and passed it over, ¡°Open up.¡±


    This overly affectionate gesture left Tong Sang stunned.


    This, this, this spoon just came out of the mouth of his beloved girl!


    ¡°Drink up.¡± Qiao Xiaomai urged.


    Tong Sang swallowed subconsciously, opened his mouth, took the spoon into his mouth, and immediately, the taste of red bean soup filled his mouth, entering his heart from his mouth, sweet to the core.


    Qiao Xiaomai watched his slightly rigid movement, couldn¡¯t help but purse her lips inughter.


    Seeing this sincerely innocent yet steady and reliable young man, she felt like she had picked up a treasure!


    Just as she was about to speak, a knock came from outside, along with the voice of Shopkeeper He, ¡°Miss Qiao, may 1e in?¡±


    ¡°Come in.¡± Qiao Xiaomai winked at Tong Sang, took the spoon out of his mouth.


    Then she put the spoon into the bowl, scooped another spoonful of red bean soup and drank it slowly.


    Tong Sang¡¯s calm eyes suddenly widened, is this, is this her flirting with him?!


    She is flirting with him!!


    And she did it on purpose!!!


    Even if he wanted to do something, Shopkeeper He had already pushed the door of the private room and came in!


    He could only forcefully suppress the surges of emotion in his heart and looked over calmly.


    Qiao Xiaomai also looked over, ¡°Shopkeeper He, is something the matter?¡±


    Shopkeeper He walked over, sat down next to the table, with a solemn expression, ¡°1 just overheard Prince Duan and Prince Wei¡¯s conversation. Judging by Prince Duan¡¯s attitude, he clearly has his eyes on you. You have to be careful..¡±

 Chapter 293: Handing Over Private Money

    Chapter 293: Handing Over Private Money


    Trantor: 549690339 |


    Yang Ye left, and Qiao Changsun finally let out his heartache, sitting immobile in the courtyard, feeling as if he had been hollowed out.


    Qiao Dami was also a bit gloomy, silently cooking chicken feed.


    Qiao Xiaomai sighed, picked up a bucket to fetch water, and watered the vegetable garden.


    At such times, nofort would work. The only option was to let the heartache slowly pass.


    Qiao Changsun¡¯s lips trembled as he spoke, ¡°Finding the person who started the fire will cost us a hundred taels. Plus, he certainly can¡¯t afford topensate for all that wheat.¡±


    In the end, his family was just unlucky.


    The heartache made him feel like he could roll on the ground in his distress!


    Nearly ten thousand jin of wheat!


    The wheat they had previously harvested was only left a bit for daily consumption, the rest was all sold. They had nned to use thisst batch of wheat for taxes, but now they would have to buy more wheat to pay their taxes!


    Qiao Changsun heaved a deep sigh, pped his thigh with hisrge hand. For a moment, he really wished to emte the Sun family, sitting at the vige entrance, swearing like a shrew.


    This frustration was choking him!


    ¡°It¡¯s okay, we won¡¯tck this bit of silver.¡± Qiao Xiaomai responded. She chose to mention silver, not wheat.


    A mountain of wheat and thirty taels of silver, it was easier for her to bear when she thought of it in terms of silver.


    ¡°It¡¯s not about the silver, it¡¯s about the wheat!¡± Qiao Changsun bit his teeth as he said this.


    As a man who was generally cid and barely knew what anger was, he was genuinely angry this time.


    As a farmer, he knew how much sweat andbor it took from nting to harvesting wheat.


    Not to mention, he had often been hungry in the past, so his reverence for wheat was higher than most people¡¯s. One could tell this from the very name of Qiao Xiaomai.


    Such precious wheat, ten thousand jin, ten thousand jin! He personally watched the vigers harvesting this wheat and stacking it at the threshing ground, but some heartless person just set it all on fire.


    All that sweat and effort over such a long time was wasted.


    He would rather it had been stolen!


    Qiao Xiaomai turned to look at him, took a deep breath, ¡°No one could have expected this.¡±


    ¡°If I knew this would happen, I would have stayed in the field overnight!¡± Qiao Changsun said again.


    Hearing this, Qiao Xiaomai was somewhat speechless. With his limp, who could he catch up with?


    Once the fire had started, the dry and highly mmable wheat straw, there was nothing he could do about it.


    ¡°Don¡¯t be angry anymore, just wait for the result.¡±


    The field, being sorge, it was unrealistic to keep watching over it.


    As for this frustration, as long as the person who started the fire was found, just ept it.


    Thinking of this, she turned around and continued to water the vegetable garden with the woodendle.


    She was growing several types ofmon vegetables in the vegetable garden, and she especially took care of the chili pepper seedlings.


    Yang Ye had also taken a look earlier, caring more than she did.


    This was the source of her future wealth.


    Qiao Changsun sighed and fell silent, quietly looking up at the sky.


    The three of them just spent the afternoon like this.


    In the evening, Qiao Changsun only drank a bowl of rice porridge, and Qiao Dami didn¡¯t eat much either. Father and son went to bed early.


    Qiao Xiaomai didn¡¯t sleep, staying up till midnight, when the window was gently knocked. Tong Sang had arrived.


    She got up wearing her robe, and the two of them sat under the tree in the courtyard again.


    Qiao Xiaomai took out a few snacks from her space and asked somewhat unhappily, ¡°Why did you leave so early today?¡±


    ¡°I was afraid Wei Wang might notice.¡± Tong Sang answered honestly. @@novelbin@@


    Qiao Xiaomai


    She remembered Yang Ye¡¯s inscrutable smile from earlier, ¡°Surely not?¡±


    ¡°From now on, in front of others¡­ let¡¯s avoid looking at each other.¡±


    Perhaps they really couldn¡¯t control their feelings, not being able to hide the affection in their faces when they looked at each other.


    ¡°Also.¡± He said and took out a bundle of silver notes from his bosom, cing them in front of Qiao Xiaomai, ¡°Here, this is five thousand taels, all my private money, for you..¡±

 Chapter 294: Giving You Pocket Money

    Chapter 294: Giving You Pocket Money


    Trantor: 549690339 |


    When Yang Ye said that he was going to give 500 taels today, he really wanted to protest in the same way.


    Qiao Xiaomai is his girlfriend after all, how could he just stand by at this moment?


    But he had no grounds to openly object.


    He could only swallow his frustration.


    Heter realized that Yang Ye might have discovered his rtionship with Qiao Xiaomai, so he left willingly.


    He felt very uneasy all afternoon.


    At one point, he even thought about ending the rtionship. Xiaomai was so wonderful, he didn¡¯t want her to be implicated in any way.


    But he couldn¡¯t bear to.


    He truly couldn¡¯t bear to.


    Living to the age of seventeen, he tasted the beauty of love for the first time, and he couldn¡¯t bear to let it go.


    Every moment they spent together felt like an unexpected gain.


    Maybe, there might not be a tomorrow.


    So while they could still be together now, he wanted to do whatever he could for Xiaomai.


    ¡°Don¡¯t feel sorry, 1 will replenish you.¡± He smiled and said.


    Xiaomai raised her eyebrows and picked up the pile of silver notes, all in denominations of a hundred taels. She counted them one by one, and finally said, ¡°Five thousand taels, is this your private money?¡±


    ¡°Yes, I am the young master of Tingfeng Pavilion, of course I have private money.¡± Tong Sang said as he lifted the tea cup and took a light sip, ¡°Actually, my family receives quite a bit of dividends from Jimei Ju every year, but this money is managed by my grandfather.¡±


    ¡°Tingfeng Pavilion makes money from selling information too, but after sharing with Grandpa Liu, the money is also managed by grandpa.¡±


    ¡°The five thousand taels, partly are the wages I get every month after bing the young master, and partly are the rewards I¡¯ve received over the years during the New Year. I didn¡¯t have many expenses, so I umted this much.¡±


    Xiaomai made a sound of acknowledgment, dragging out the end of the note. Five thousand taels, quite impressive for a seventeen-year-old country boy.


    ¡°As the young master of Tingfeng Pavilion, how much do you earn in a month?¡± she asked.


    ¡°One hundred taels.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s quite little.¡±


    ¡°It was set by grandpa. He said I was young, and wouldn¡¯t need that much silver.¡±


    Xiaomai made a few tut-tutting noises, then returned the pile of silver notes to Tong Sang, ¡°You keep it, it¡¯s the thought that counts.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯mpensating you.¡± Tong Sang emphasized the word pensating¡¯ and pushed the silver notes back.


    ¡°It¡¯s only thirty taels. What I¡¯m peeved about is the ten thousand kilos of wheat, and not being able to swallow this slight.¡± Xiaomai hummed and pointed at the silver notes. ¡°Take it away, 1 don¡¯t want it.¡±


    ¡°Why don¡¯t you want it? If we really do get married in the future, I¡¯ll have to hand it over anyway. If we don¡¯t get married, letting these silver notes lying around at my ce would be a waste. Regardless, I¡¯m giving them to you in this lifetime.¡± Tong Sang said.


    Xiaomai¡±¡­¡±


    ¡®If we don¡¯t get married,¡¯ this sentence made her feel a little bitter inside.


    If they didn¡¯t get married, there would only be one oue.


    She curved her lips into a smile, picked up the silver notes, and carefully put them away in the void. @@novelbin@@


    The sincerity of a young man was worth more than its weight in gold.


    She took nine dimes out of the void and put them in front of Tong Sang, ¡°Here, since you¡¯ve handed over your private money, then I should give you pocket money. Take it and spend it freely, if it¡¯s not enough as me for more.¡±


    Tong Sang¡¯s handsome face showed a surprised color, ¡°No need, I still have some spare change.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not the same, I just want to give you pocket money.¡±


    Tong Sang was taken aback for a moment, then began tough, ¡°Can I have it in silver?¡±


    Nine dimes, nine thousand copper coins, were quite cumbersome to carry.


    ¡°In the countryside, it¡¯s more convenient to use copper coins.¡±


    ¡°Well in that case, I¡¯ll ept it.¡± Tong Sang nodded, ¡°From now on, I¡¯ll hand over my wages to you every month.¡±


    ¡°Then I¡¯ll give you pocket money every month.¡±


    The two looked at each other and then burst intoughter.


    The night was, indeed, so wonderful..

 Chapter 295: The Whistleblower Arrives

    Chapter 295: The Whistleblower Arrives


    Trantor: 549690339 I


    The next day, Qiao Changshun got up, and the vigers started to trickle in.


    Even though there was no wheat left, things like millet, soybeans, sweet potatoes, and sesame still had to be grown. They couldn¡¯t just ignore the other fields because of yesterday¡¯s financial hit.


    Qiao Changshun and Qiao Dami went out to the fields, while Qiao Xiaomai locked up the courtyard and headed to town.


    The tax collector from the County Town would be visiting in the next few days, so she needed to buy wheat and hemp cloth.


    She did some heavy shopping in town, paid the delivery fee, and had the grain store deliver the wheat back home.


    In the afternoon, she started cooking. This time she went to Ji Wei Ju and bought some ingredients she had never tried before: shrimp, crab, sea cucumber, dried abalone, dried scallops, and so on, nning to indulge herself under the pretext of practicing new recipes.


    When Qiao Changshun and Qiao Dami came back in the evening, they were both stunned.


    The Qiao family had never eaten these things before.


    ¡°Come on, eat more, your mood will improve if you eat plenty.¡± Qiao Xiaomai urged the two of them to wash their hands quickly.


    Qiao Changshun sighed mournfully. After losing so much money, and now eating such expensive food, it only added to his distress.


    However, understanding the good intentions of Qiao Xiaomai, he didn¡¯t say anything. After washing his hands, he sat at the table and tucked in heartily.


    After dinner, Qiao Changshun and Qiao Dami strolled around the courtyard to aid digestion, totally stuffed.


    ¡°By the way, Xiaomai, I ran into Brother Ma today.¡±


    ¡°Brother Ma?¡±


    ¡°Ma Dongshu.¡±


    ¡°When did you guys be so close?¡±


    ¡°We chatted all afternoon today and became quite close.¡±


    ¡°What did you talk about?¡±


    ¡°He asked me if our vige had any legends or stories. He said that when studying feng shui, all aspects have to be considered.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai raised an eyebrow, ¡°And what did you say?¡±


    ¡°Of course, I said no. Anping Vige didn¡¯t exist until after the founding of Daqi. At that time, everyone was disced because of the war, so we settled down and founded the vige here. How can there be any legends in a vige that¡¯s only been around for a few decades?¡±


    ¡°He asked me in detail about the founding of the vige, which 1 couldn¡¯t answer.¡±


    He wasn¡¯t even born when Anping Vige was established.


    Qiao Xiaomaiughed, ¡°Exactly, that¡¯s a question for Grandpa Tong.¡±


    ¡°He alsoplimented your cooking skills. He¡¯s willing to pay for meals and extra for your hard work, offering to have three meals a day at our house. He asked if you¡¯re willing.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not interested. I don¡¯t need the extra money.¡± Qiao Xiaomai tly refused.


    Having been roaming the mountain for several days, Ma Dongshu was now trying to get closer to her.


    Did he find something, or was he choosing her as a breakthrough point because he hadn¡¯t found anything at all?


    With such a big troublemaker as Yang Yeing along, not to mention potential trouble from Prince Duan, if she couldn¡¯t protect herself when things hit the fan, she would be in deep trouble.


    ¡°Isn¡¯t that bad? After all, he is one of Prince Wei¡¯s men.¡± Qiao Changshun said.


    ¡°What¡¯s so special about Prince Wei? Even Prince Wei can¡¯t eat my cooking every day, let alone him.¡±


    Qiao Changshun


    Her words sounded unreasonable but also made a lot of sense.


    ¡°Alright, Dad, don¡¯t worry about it, go back to your room and sleep.¡± Qiao Xiaomai said.


    Qiao Changshun nodded, ¡°Are you sure everything¡¯s fine?¡±


    ¡°Absolutely fine.¡± Qiao Xiaomai assured him confidently.


    ¡°Then alright, you handle it.¡± Qiao Changshun sighed and led Qiao Dami back to their room.


    Qiao Xiaomai also got up and retreated to her room. She lit the oilmp, took out a carving knife and paper from her space, and prepared to cut a 3D paper carving to give to Tong Sang.


    Crafting was her small hobby aside from gourmet food.


    At midnight, Tong Sang arrived right on time.


    Her paper carving was already done. It was a 3D vase with a bouquet of roses inside.


    This exquisite item amazed Tong Sang, he held it in his hands, turning it over repeatedly to examine.


    ¡°It¡¯s a gift for you, a rose.¡± His reaction delighted Qiao Xiaomai.


    ¡°A rose? Shouldn¡¯t I be the one giving this to you?¡± After Qiao Xiaomai exined, he understood that roses symbolize love and are usually given by men to the women they love.


    ¡°It¡¯s all the same.¡± Qiao Xiaomai chuckled lightly.


    Tong Sang raised an eyebrow, ¡°So you¡­¡± @@novelbin@@


    Suddenly, his voice stopped abruptly, his index finger raised in a shushing gesture, whispered, ¡°Someone ising..¡±

 Chapter 313: The Shrew’s Fight

    Chapter 313: The Shrew¡¯s Fight


    Trantor: 549690339 |


    Thinking so, she waved her hand at Qiao Dami, ¡°Daini, go and get the vige chief from the Tong family.¡±


    ¡°Okay!¡± Qiao Dami stood up, put the melon seeds in his hand into the small cloth bag hanging on his body, and trudged off towards the direction of Tong family¡¯s residence.


    ¡°This is a family affair, why bring in Vige Chief Tong?!¡± Qiao Chang¡¯an had been carefully watching Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s movements, he quickly spoke up upon hearing this.


    Qiao Xiaomai curved her lips into a faint smile full of coldness, ¡°Who said this is merely a family matter? You intentionally causing father¡¯s leg to break. ording to Daqi Laws, that¡¯s intentional harm, this incident should be taken to the County Town to see the magistrate.¡±


    At this remark, Qiao Changkang burst intoughter, ¡°Third brother, since you dared to do it, you should have foreseen this day. Wrongdoings will meet retribution!¡±


    ¡°Nonsense!¡± Qiao Chang¡¯an felt panic and anger. He gritted his teeth, clenched his fist and viciously struck towards Qiao Changkang¡¯s face, loudly saying, ¡°Xiaomai, I am wronged in this matter. Your fourth uncle gave me plenty of wine today, he tricked me into talking nonsense when I was drunk.¡±


    ¡°Then he came and used me of breaking your father¡¯s leg. He¡¯s obviously spouting nonsense, trying to frame me!¡±


    ¡°Qiao Chang¡¯an, dare you swear to heaven! It was clearly you who intentionally loosened a tile leading to our second brother¡¯s fall and breaking his leg. You are the murderer!¡± Qiao Changkang roared back defiantly.


    Wu Yinfeng scoffed and joined the argument, ¡°Qiao Chang¡¯an, dare you swear! Would you dare to swear on the life of your son Xiaobao! If you did do it, then your son Xiaobao won¡¯t have a good ending. If you truly didn¡¯t, Xiaobao will be fine.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Qiao Chang¡¯an looked even more deted.


    He had two daughters before he had this son, whom he adores even more than the Sun Family adores Sun Junyan. At this moment, he was speechless.


    While he was at a loss for words, Zhao Shufen let out a roar like a wild beast, her strength greatly increased as she tried to strangle Wu Yinfeng¡¯s neck, ¡°Whore, you shameless and ck-hearted whore, dare you curse my son, I will strangle you to death!¡±


    Xiaobao is also Zhao Shufen¡¯s lifeblood. At this moment, when her son was inexplicably involved, her motherly instincts kicked in, and she seemed to have unlimited strength.


    Wu Yinfeng was quickly overpowered and her face turned red from being strangled. She tried to pull Zhao Shufen¡¯s hair while simultaneously coughing and yelling for help, ¡°Dahuo, Dahuo, save me!¡±


    Qiao Dahuo, thirteen years old, was her and Qiao Changkang¡¯s eldest son. He had been scared senseless just now, but seeing his mother¡¯s face turning red, he quickly came forward.


    Qiao Xiaomai also frowned and said, ¡°Hurry, separate them, we can¡¯t let someone die here!¡±


    As soon as she said this, a few onlookers stepped forward to intervene. A fight is a fight, but it can¡¯t result in a loss of life.


    Four or five people worked together and finally separated Zhao Shufen and Wu Yinfeng.


    Wu Yinfeng¡¯s neck bore two noticeable finger marks, her face was as red as a cooked shrimp, covered with many blood marks. She was bent over and coughing loudly.


    Zhao Shufen was not in a better state either, her hair was dishevelled, and her neck and face were covered in blood marks. Although there were no fingerprint marks on her neck, she was being held back by three people, still struggling to lunge at Wu Yinfeng, ¡°Whore, you should be the one struck by lightning! You¡¯re the one who won¡¯t die well!¡±


    Wu Yinfeng rolled her eyes as she coughed and retorted, ¡°It¡¯s your man who did it. If anyone is to be struck, it¡¯s you. If you don¡¯t dare to swear on Xiaobao, then you¡¯re admitting it!¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re talking nonsense!¡± Zhao Shufen jumped up, spat viciously at Wu Yinfeng.


    ¡°Wait, stop arguing for now.¡± Qiao Xiaomai intervened, disrupting the heated exchange that was about to break out from Wu Yinfeng.

 Chapter 314: Divine Medicine

    Chapter 314: Divine Medicine


    Trantor: 549690339 |


    She was also fed up with Wu Yinfeng¡¯s strong words about forcing Qiao Xiaobao into the scene.


    No matter how unbearable and domineering Qiao Xiaobao usually is, it¡¯s too much to involve a child¡¯s life with such venomousnguage at such a time.


    The real issue is confronting Qiao Chang¡¯an, the main culprit!


    ¡°What¡¯s the fuss? Sit down and talk nicely.¡± She spoke as she pulled her small face.


    ¡°Is this something that can be discussed calmly? Xiaomai, Qiao Chang¡¯an is responsible for your father¡¯s fractured leg, and he won¡¯t admit it!¡± Qiao Changkang spoke loudly.


    The fight between him and Qiao Chang¡¯an was still ongoing.


    Qiao Xiaomai looked over, her brows furrowed tightly, ¡°You two should also stop fighting, can fights solve the problem?¡±


    Both of them were bruised and bloody, she had had enough of their zealous but unattractive performance.


    Just as her words settled, someone immediately followed up with a high and husky voice, ¡°Yes, fights will not solve the problem! I, an elderly man, should handle this!¡±


    His strong presence instantly attracted everyone¡¯s attention.


    Qiao Xiaomai also looked over, her brows furrowing tighter, it was Ma Dongshu.


    Instead of scurrying around in the deep mountains, what is he doing at her doorstep?


    Laughing cheerfully while stroking his beard, Ma Dongshu walked over saying, ¡°Brother Qiao, I ran into Dami earlier, and he said there was a bigmotion at your door, so I invited myself over.¡±


    Qiao Changshun hurriedly weed him, ¡°Brother Ma,e sit,e sit. Xiaomai, quickly bring a chair.¡±


    ¡°Oh, no need, no need.¡± Ma Dongshu dismissed him, pointing at the bloodied Qiao Chang¡¯an and Qiao Changkang in the middle of the brawl, ¡°I¡¯m here to resolve the matter.¡±


    ¡°I wonder what method you may have, Elder Ma?¡± Qiao Xiaomai asked respectfully.


    She called off the fight, but she had no good solutions in mind.


    The incident urred too long ago, there¡¯s no physical evidence, just Qiao Changkang¡¯s sole testimony. If Qiao Chang¡¯an insists on denying it, she would indeed have no other methods.


    She originally thought that with the prospect of six hundred taels of silver, Qiao Changkang woulde up with a safe method.


    Little did she know that his only method was getting him drunk, coaxing.


    Ugh, she overestimated the intelligence of the Qiange couple.


    Now Ma Dongshu took the initiative to step up, she looked forward to it.


    By now, Ma Dongshu hade close. Heughed heartily, drew a white porcin small bottle from his arms, held it high and asked everyone present, ¡°Do you know what this is?¡±


    Naturally, none of those present knew and they all shook their heads.


    He jingled the small bottle in his hand, the smile on his face turned into a solemn look, ¡°This is the legendary Truth Elixir.¡±


    When he mentioned the Truth Elixir, his solemn expression turned mysterious, and his voice became elusive, ¡°Once you eat a pill, your mind will be disoriented, and you will answer whatever is asked, therefore it is called the Truth Elixir.¡±


    ¡°All the gangs in the rivers andkes are fighting for this divine drug. As long as they have this drug, there will be no mouth that cannot be pried open, no secret that cannot be asked.¡±


    ¡°This drug costs a hundred taels of silver for just one pill!¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai ¡°¡­¡±


    Upon hearing this, she couldn¡¯t help but twitch her mouth.


    Is he asking her for silver?


    Moreover, this drug, just like the rumors that were spread inter generations, all you need is to be sprayed with it once, and you will obediently hand over your bank card and mobile phone and so on.


    Is Ma Dongshu really a chatan?

 Chapter 298: Holding Hands

    Chapter 298: Holding Hands


    Trantor: 549690339 |


    ¡°Yes, yes, I trust you, Uncle Four. But please be more cautious. After all, there are still 600 taels to pay back.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not about the silver!¡± Qiao Changkang emphasized again. ¡°I came here to ask for your forgiveness. The clues are secondary.¡±


    ¡°I trust you, Uncle Four. It¡¯ste. You should go home.¡± Qiao Xiaomai raised her arm and pointed to the entrance of the courtyard.


    ¡°Air, I¡¯ll go back now. But theseing days, don¡¯t reveal anything. Wait until we find concrete evidence, then we¡¯ll catch the thief red-handed.¡± Qiao Changkang stood up.


    ¡°Alright.¡± Qiao Xiaomai said politely, seeing Qiao Changkang out.


    After relocking the courtyard door and turning around, Tong Sang emerged from the storage shed.


    She said, ¡°I intend on letting them fight each other.¡±


    It would be best if they ended up hurting each other. She treated the silver she¡¯d thrown into this mess as the price of admission to a show.


    ¡°I know.¡± Tong Sang nodded. He hesitated for a moment, then suggested, ¡°How about 1 eavesdrop on Qiao Chang¡¯an from now on?¡±


    ¡°No need. Just let them squabble among themselves. There¡¯s 600 taels at stake here, Qiao Changkang will certainly bring the evidence voluntarily.¡± Qiao Xiaomai sighed, a bitter, mocking smile appearing on her face, ¡°I never imagined it would lead to this.¡±


    ¡°Silver, it really can bring about surprising effects.¡±


    Tong Sang fell silent for a moment, ¡°Does this remind you of the past?¡±


    ¡°It does, but it doesn¡¯t make me sad. I am just mocking the situation.¡± She clicked her tongue, ¡°Maybe because I¡¯ve nevercked money since i was little, I value other things more. I used to not understand why that scumbag would do such an unconscionable thing for money, but I understand now.¡±


    ¡°Coming here made me realize how even securing food can be a problem. This deepened my understanding.¡±


    ¡°Survival is, after all, the principle concern. Doing wrong things so that one can enjoy some good food and nicer clothes, that¡¯s not hard to understand. It¡¯s not unusual for tough conditions to breed dishonest people.¡±


    Tong Sang hesitated for a moment, then patted her shoulder, ¡°I¡¯m d even after experiencing bad things, you still have a kind heart.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai chuckled, rubbing her arm, ¡°You¡¯re going to give me goosebumps. Just because I¡¯ve suffered doesn¡¯t mean I¡¯ve be a different person.¡±


    She didn¡¯t suffer material hardships when she was young. The pain she went through was all emotional.


    It¡¯s strange to think that because of emotional hurt, one would be unkind.¡±


    ¡°Also, is this how youfort your girlfriend? By patting her on the shoulder?¡± Qiao Xiaomai raised an eyebrow.


    ¡°Ick dating experience. 1 don¡¯t do things smoothly and my words aren¡¯t precise.¡± Tong Sang was sincere. ¡°Please, Miss Xiaomai, teach me. What should I do? What should I say?¡±


    Even though they have been secretly meeting each other almost every night these days, they have only chatted without even holding hands. He had hesitated before patting her shoulder.


    ¡°Young man, learn for yourself.¡± Qiao Xiaomai patted Tong Sang¡¯s shoulder in return and took a step towards the small table.


    Tong Sang watched her delicate figure, and followed her. When he reached her, he held Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s left hand with his free right hand.


    Her hand was soft, warm, and smooth. The touch was so pleasant that his heart skipped several beats. @@novelbin@@


    Qiao Xiaomai looked at him with a bit of surprise. Seeing the anxiety on his handsome face, she couldn¡¯t help butugh. She ced her right hand over his, warm though slightly rough.


    Feeling something in his palm, she asked, ¡°Huh?¡±


    Tong Sang stiffened, holding his breath, ¡°What is it?¡±


    ¡°Young man, your hands don¡¯t match your face. 1 think you might need some hand cream.¡± Qiao Xiaomai said, feeling his hand again..

 Chapter 316:I Burned It!

    Chapter 316:I Burned It!


    Trantor: 549690339


    Hearing the chill hidden under her calm demeanor and seeing eyes that looked at him as if he were dead, Qiao Chang¡¯an suddenly couldn¡¯t sit still, his body copsing onto the ground like a limp pile of mud.


    A mocking smile yed at the corner of Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s mouth, ¡°Are you scared? So what Fourth Uncle imed is indeed true; you were the one who loosened the tiles causing my father to fall and break his leg.¡±


    Qiao Chang<sup>1</sup> an¡¯s face was full of panic, his body slumped on the ground, with not a word to say.


    At this moment, all he could think about was the day when Qiao Xiaomai had shed her own wrist.


    For the sake of breaking off the ties with the Sun family, she was even willing to risk her own life.


    What would she do to him if she found out what he had done?


    The Sun family was her grandmother¡¯s family, held back by filial piety, she dared not act recklessly.


    But he didn¡¯t have the protection of filial piety!


    What should he do?


    Did she genuinely want to kill him?


    The way she looked at him was as if she were staring at a dead man!


    Despair.


    True despair!


    Qiao Xiaomai looked over at the limp Qiao Chang¡¯an, rolled her eyes, ¡°Don¡¯t you dare take responsibility for your actions?¡±


    Qiao Chang¡¯an¡¯s lips trembled, but he couldn¡¯t utter a single word.


    Fear, and despair hadpletely engulfed him, what could he say?


    Deny it?


    With that divine medicine present, would his denial even matter?


    ¡°If you won¡¯t speak, then we will consider it as your consent. But with so many vigers watching, it¡¯s better if we hear it from your mouth before passing the sentence ording to the ¡®Daqi Laws¡¯. Give me the divine medicine, Elder Ma, so I can feed it to Uncle Three.¡± Qiao Xiaomai said, reaching out her right hand to Ma Dongshu.


    Upon hearing these words, Qiao Chang¡¯an felt an increase in dread.


    Would Qiao Xiaomai seize this opportunity to viciously stab him while feeding him the medicine?


    Most likely yes, seeing she was even willing to harm herself.


    With this thought, his already limp body on the ground involuntarily started to tremble.


    Ma Dongshu looked at Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s outstretched hand, then shook his head solemnly, ¡°I¡¯ll feed him.¡±


    He said this as he took out another green pill, took a few quick steps, squatted down next to Qiao Chang¡¯an, reached for his mouth, intending to forcefully feed him.


    Meanwhile, he muttered, ¡°If you confess on your own, there¡¯s a possibility of a reduced sentence. Being stubborn not only gets you nowhere, but it also brings more suffering. You are really a fool.¡±


    Upon hearing the phrase ¡®reduced sentence¡¯, Qiao Chang¡¯an, who was drowning in his despair, found a lifeline.


    It seemed like he found strength as he screamed out, ¡°I confess!¡±


    ¡°Oh? You¡¯re going to confess?¡± Ma Dongshu sounded surprised.


    ¡°Can I really get reduced sentencing?¡± He grabbed Ma Dongsh¡¯s arm tightly. His beaten face full of anxiety. His voice urgent.


    ¡°Of course.¡± Ma Dongshu nodded.


    ¡°I confess!¡± Qiao Chang¡¯an¡¯s tone was even more intense.


    ¡°Alright, then tell us. Everyone is listening.¡± Ma Dongshu pushed the pill back into his pocket, and stood up.


    ¡°I..I¡­ I intentionally loosened the tiles, causing my second brother to fall and break his leg.¡± Seeing Ma Dongshu seeming to walk off, Qiao Chang¡¯an quickly reached out to grab his robe, not allowing him to leave. ¡°The grains of wheat were also set on fire by me!¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve confessed, Elder Ma, you said you would reduce my sentence!¡±


    ¡°Wiry did you harm your second brother and cause him to break his leg? Why did you burn your second brother¡¯s wheat?¡± Ma Dongshu asked again.


    ¡°He got fifty taels of silver for no reason, and I was jealous!¡± Now that he started confessing, there was no point hiding anything anymore.


    ¡°He went from being the poorest to the richest overnight, and I was jealous!¡±


    Yes, all his actions were driven by jealousy.


    Why could Qiao Changshun effortlessly get fifty taels of silver and also end up with a beautiful woman?


    Why could Qiao Changshun¡¯s family rise from near ruin to be the wealthiest family in Anping Vige?


    He was jealous!

 Chapter 317: The Truth

    Chapter 317: The Truth


    Trantor: 549690339


    Qiao Chang¡¯an was truly fond of Zhuang Luhe back in the day, but sadly, she never took an interest in him.


    He tried to propose but was rejected, he desired to elope but that n failed as well, then he attempted to force himself on her.


    It didn¡¯t go as he wished and Zhuang Luhe ended up marrying Qiao Changshun instead. That became the greatest resentment he harbored in this lifetime.


    Yes, resentment.


    When he saw Qiao Changshun being oppressed by the Sun Family, he felt satisfied.


    Seeing Zhuang Luhe suffer alongside Qiao Changshun for more than a decade, it made him happy too.


    The brutal reality merely proved how foolish Zhuang Luhe¡¯s choice had been back in the day.


    So, he secretly enticed Zhuang Luhe, suggesting that if she was willing to have an affair with him, he would ndestinely provide her with some silver and food.


    But Zhuang Luhe refused and even pped his face in return.


    This furtherated his resentment.


    What was so good about Qiao Changshun? This weakling who had been oppressed for years. Why was she preserving her chastity as if it was something precious?


    Before he could devise a new strategy, Qiao Changshun unexpectedly received fifty taels of silver.


    Fifty taels!


    That was a considerable sum in Anping Vige!


    This softhearted man, Changshun¡¯s fortunes had unexpectedly turned!


    Zhuang Luhe who had suffered all these years, unexpectedly had her hard days turned around!


    That won¡¯t do!


    Tormented by jealousy and rage, unable to sleep, he initiated his n.


    Qiao Changshun, just as he wished, ended up breaking his leg.


    At that time, the Sun Family was enthusiastically telling the entire vige that Qiao Changshun and Zhuang Luhe were paying for their unfilial behavior, thus his actions did not raise any suspicion, everyone considered it divine retribution.


    Due to the broken leg, the Qiao Family¡¯s newly acquired possessions hardly warmed up before they all had to be sold off again. So much so, their fields were also sold in the end.


    To a farmer, a piece ofnd is their lifeline. Once they lose that, then their family is finished.


    During those times, Zhuang Luhe who was once blooming vibrantly, seemed like she had been hit by a storm, withering instantly. Her entire beingpletely drained of vitality.


    That was the scene he wanted to see.


    That finally suited his taste.


    So, he approached Zhuang Luhe again, only to receive another p from her.


    His anger increased, he issued a harsh warning, eager to see how long Zhuang Luhe would able to hold on, for the time wille when she will kneel before him, licking his toes.


    In the end, it proved that Zhuang Luhe never warmed up to him, she would rather elope with a bad-singing peddler than turn to him.


    This fact added to his frustration, deepening his resentment towards the Qiao Family.


    But what frustrated him even more happened after.


    Just when Qiao Changshun¡¯s family was on the brink of ruin, in a span of mere three months, they became the wealthiest in Anping Vige.


    Possessing five hundred acres of farnd, having a newly-built tiled house and his daughter was the king¡¯s favorite cook.


    This was not what he had imagined!


    He anticipated seeing Qiao Xiaomai sold off to a brothel. The Qiao family¡¯s house to be liquidated, resulting in their disintegration!


    Not this glimmering golden family which was the vige¡¯s centre of attraction!


    Thus, blinded by jealousy, he secretly journeyed several miles under the cover of darkness to set fire to Qiao Changshun¡¯s wheat field.


    No one was cognizant of his deeds, not even his wife, Zhao Shufen knew about his midnight adventure.


    If he could not antagonise Qiao Changshun openly, then he would take covert actions.


    Knowing Qiao Changshun¡¯s temperament, that much loss would surely be painful enough to keep him awake at night for quite some time.


    Ha, Changshun in the open, him in the dark. This sort of ndestine retaliation was something he nned to exploit more often!


    However, to hisplete surprise, his act of tampering with the tiles that day was seen by Qiao Changkang!


    Unexpectedly, in order to im the reward, Qiao Changkang used his machinations against him!


    Detestable, utterly detestable!

 Chapter 318: Must be Severely Punished!

    Chapter 318: Must be Severely Punished!


    Trantor: 549690339 |


    Qiao Xiaomai also found this hateful.


    She never expected that things would their course this way.


    As for Zhuang Luhe¡¯s actions, she had always refrained from judging, but now that she has learned of this from Qiao Chang¡¯an, she truly began to sympathize with her.


    Scum! Beast!


    Anyone who forces a woman and wants to sexually assault her, is a beast, all should be torn into pieces and fed to the dogs!


    Recalling her own experiences, she gritted her teeth and with her small face tense, without hesitation, she raised her foot and harshly kicked Qiao Chang¡¯an.


    Qiao Chang¡¯an let out a mournful scream and rolled a few times across the ground ¨C he was kicked away.


    His scream woke Qiao Changshun from his stupor.


    Qiao Changshun¡¯s nose soured, his eye sockets were hot, and his chest was congested.


    Was this necessary?


    Was this all necessary!


    He had been honest for half his life, hardworking for half his life, dutiful for half his life, being bullied for half his life, just what sins had hemitted to warrant such hate?


    He might not be a good husband or a good father, he could understand if Zhuang Luhe and Qiao Xiaomai hated him.


    But why should the Sun family hate him?


    He devoted his life to filial piety, even at the expense of his own family.


    And why should Qiao Chang¡¯an hate him?


    It was clearly Qiao Chang¡¯an¡¯s ownziness andck of ambition that made him unattractive to Zhuang Luhe. Why did he me him?


    Was his honesty and integrity also wrong?


    Was helping Zhuang Luhe out and resulting in him falling for him his fault?


    How big of a grudge?


    They were brothers, how big of a grudge was it to harm him like this?


    Breaking his leg wasn¡¯t enough, they even burned the wheat.


    Nearly ten thousand catties of wheat, that¡¯s a mountain of wheat!


    To get revenge on him, they evenmitted such a crazy act?


    Where was their conscience?


    Where was their moral sanity?


    Besides, all these years, they had been eyeing Zhuang Luhe!


    Beast!


    Thinking of Zhuang Luhe¡¯s appearance, and her exit in the early morning, his heated eyes filled with tears. Qiao Changshun¡¯s body trembled as he staggered into the doorway of his home.


    He closed the courtyard door, blocking the various gazes andmotion outside the door.


    Looking at the closed door, Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s anger intensified, took a deep breath, she looked at Qiao Chang¡¯an, her voice cold, ¡°Since you¡¯ve confessed everything, then prepare for your punishment.¡±


    Qiao Chang¡¯an had just been kicked by her, he was in great pain. On hearing her words, he quickly turned to Ma Dongshu, ¡°Mr Ma, you said I could get a reduced sentence!¡±


    ¡°Yes, yes, turning yourself in can indeed reduce your sentence. But the crimes youmitted are serious.¡± Ma Dongshu looked troubled, ¡°In ordance with ¡®Daqi Laws¡¯, your act of intentionally injuring someone not only warrants a sentence but also a fine.¡±


    ¡°Changshun¡¯s leg was broken, this is serious hurt, which may mean a sentence of over ten years. Even if it gets halved, it¡¯s still five years, also, you¡¯ll have to pay a fine.¡±


    ¡°You burnt the wheat, this behavior is appalling, that¡¯s almost ten thousand catties of wheat. Even the emperor himself may not have this audacity, hence you can be sentenced with ten years imprisonment, plus the losses of wheat should bepensated by you.¡±


    ¡°So, even if we reduce the final sentence, you¡¯ll have to serve ten years in prison and pay a fine of forty-five taels of silver.¡±


    Ten years in jail and fine of forty-five taels silver.


    These words pounded on Qiao Chang¡¯an like heavy hammers, each blow knocking him dizzy, reducing him to a helpless state.

 Chapter 319: Who Can Afford to Show Sympathy?

    Chapter 319: Who Can Afford to Show Sympathy?


    Trantor: 549690339 |


    Zhao Shufen was startled, then let out a sharp scream, she lunged at Ma Dongshu, ¡°Impossible, impossible!¡±


    Ma Dongshu looked prosperous, but his body was extremely agile. He deftly avoided Zhao Shufen¡¯s actions and frowned, ¡°Why is it impossible, do you think I¡¯d lie to you?¡±


    Just then, Tong Tiehu and Qiao Dami appeared at the corner of the street, he raised his hand and pointed to Tong Tiehu, ¡°If you don¡¯t believe me, ask your vige chief.¡±


    Zhao Shufen turned her head and looked at Tong Tiehu.


    Tong Tiehu¡¯s face was solemn, extremely serious, she hesitated, remembered Tong Tiehu¡¯s ruthlessly efficient style, her legs gave way and she copsed to the ground.


    Crying loudly.


    Her hair was disheveled, her face was covered in blood, her voice was sharp, full of thick despair.


    Just a moment ago, Qiao Chang¡¯an had confessed in front of Qiao Xiaomai because he was desperate.


    Now it was her turn to despair.


    Her husband was going to jail and had to pay dozens of taels of silver as a fine.


    The family was ruined, what was she going to do?


    She had always known about Qiao Chang¡¯an¡¯s lust for Zhuang Luhe, but she never thought Qiao Chang¡¯an would have an affair with Zhuang Luhe, let alone that Qiao Chang¡¯an would break Qiao Changshun¡¯s leg and burn his wheat.


    She didn¡¯t know about any of these.


    Did they hear her? She was innocent!


    The more she thought about it, the more aggrieved and desperate she became, she cried louder and kept pping her thighs, ¡°1 can¡¯t live like this anymore, just let me die, let me die!¡±


    No one tried to console her.


    Her two daughters and son were already scared and stood still on the side.


    At this time, Tong Tiehu approached, Ma Dongshu said, ¡°Brother Tong, Qiao Chang¡¯an confessed. He not only sabotaged Changshun, causing him to break his leg, but also burned Changshun¡¯s wheat.¡±


    ¡°Did he admit it himself?¡± Tong Tiehu asked.


    ¡°He admitted it himself, everyone present heard it.¡±


    ¡°Then send him to the county town and let the county grandee decide.¡± Tong Tiehu raised his hand, pointing at a few onlookers, ¡°Tie up Qiao Chang¡¯an.¡±


    He turned to Qiao Xiaomai, ¡°Xiaomai, is your family¡¯s donkey cart idle?¡±


    ¡°The donkey cart is idle.¡±


    ¡°Ok, tie him to the donkey cart and go to the county town.¡± Tong Tiehu made a sweeping gesture, making the decision.


    For his orders, the vigers of Anping Vige always executed them efficiently, those who should pull the donkey cart pulled the donkey cart, those who should tie up people did so, clearly divided the work.


    ¡°Chief, chief, you can¡¯t do this, if he¡¯s going to jail, my family is done, we¡¯re done!¡± Upon seeing this, Zhao Shufen knelt on the ground, moving step by step towards Tong Tiehu, pleading desperately.


    The desperation and sorrow expressed in her tone and expression could be palpably felt by everyone present.


    Tong Tiehu felt it too, he lowered his head, nced at the disheveled Zhao Shufen and frowned, ¡°Just because your family is ruined, it means we should overlook your husband¡¯s deeds?¡±


    ¡°So by your logic, if anyone¡¯s in a desperate situation, they can start doing evil?¡±


    ¡°Furthermore, your family didn¡¯t steal wheat because you w¡¯ere starving, he burned ten thousand catties of wheat, do you understand? Who can sympathize with such behavior?¡±


    ¡°Zhao Shufen, tell me, tell everyone, who can sympathize with your husband¡¯s behavior?¡±


    ¡°They may not sympathize with him, but what about me? Chief, I have three children, what will happen to me and my children if he¡¯s imprisoned! 1 didn¡¯t know anything about what he did!¡±

 Chapter 303: Increase Review

    Chapter 303: Increase Review


    Trantor: 549690339 |


    In response to such provocation, Qiao Xiaomai didn¡¯t take it to heart at all. With her eyes drooping slightly, she responded calmly, ¡°I ll do my best.¡±


    When she previously encountered Yang Ye wanting to take her back to the Wang Residence, her mind was filled with various worries, anxieties, and vexations.


    But now that Yang Wang was involved, strangely, she felt no waves in her heart at all.


    That¡¯s right.


    No waves at all.


    What¡¯s there to fear?


    After all, she wouldn¡¯t lose.


    If Yang Wang forcibly took her, she would report it to Emperor Yongan through Yang Ye.


    Having a just and strict Emperor is really great.


    However, she was slightly worried about Tung Sang.


    They already couldn¡¯t be together openly, and now there was a lunatic like Yang Wang. He must feel ufortable.


    Sigh, she decided to give him a loving hug tonight!


    ¡°You¡¯re quite confident?¡± Yang Wang was surprised to see that Qiao Xiaomai didn¡¯t even blink an eye.


    ¡°It¡¯s not confidence, it¡¯s my capability. Enough chitchat, Brother Three! Let¡¯s get thepetition started. The sun¡¯s getting hotter and hotter.¡± Yang Ye spoke.


    At these words, Yang Wang scanned Qiao Xiaomai up and down like a hawk, gave a coldugh, stood up, and jumped off the tform.


    Seeing this, Yang Ye ordered the servants to remove the chair and parasol, pped his hands, and announced, ¡°Today¡¯spetition is quite thrilling. If Miss Qiao wins, Brother Three will give me and Miss Qiao a Hot Spring Vi. If Brother Three wins, Miss Qiao will return to Wang Residence as a kitchen maid.¡±


    ¡°The stakes are high, so everyone here will be judges, and everyone has the right to vote.¡±


    ¡°Wait.¡± Yang Wang, who had just sat down, abruptly stood up and interrupted him, ¡°Didn¡¯t you say the judges were going to be ten people?¡±


    ¡°I changed my mind at thest minute.¡± Yang Ye raised an eyebrow.


    He had arranged the judges the same way as before. Although he had interacted with the other nine before, he feared Yang Wang might have bribed some of them on the sly, so just like thest time when he changed the voting method, this time he nned to change the judges.


    It couldn¡¯t be possible for Yang Wang to have bribed everyone in the Academy.


    ¡°This is ridiculous! If everyone is a judge, how much food would have to be made?!¡±


    ¡°Then just cook two dishes. Just make more of each.¡±


    ¡°Master Chef Niu specializes in the delicate pce banquet, not the coarsemunity meals!¡± Yang Wang argued forcefully. @@novelbin@@


    ¡°Brother Three, a truly good chef can make any type of food.¡±


    ¡°Cookingmunity meals is clearly Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s specialty. She makes meals for vige feasts. Your changing the rules at thest minute is unfair.¡± Yang wang grunted stubbornly, refusing to agree.


    ¡°Then let¡¯s randomly select ten people. You should be okay with that, Brother Three?¡± Yang Yepromised.


    ¡°You were the one who established the rules! Why are you messing around?!¡± Yang Wang, swept away by anger, snapped, his stern face contorting into a look of fury.


    ¡°The more people, the fairer the results. Our father always taught us when doing research, we should gather more samples to make our conclusions¡­¡±


    ¡°Enough. Ten people it is, choose, I¡¯ll select five and you select five.¡± Yang Wang interrupted him impatiently.


    Yang Yeughed, his eyes drawn up into crescents, ¡°Alright, let¡¯s do it that way.¡±


    In fact, it wasn¡¯t his intention to have everyone in the Academy be judges, but after he made this seemingly audacious request, Yang Wang easily agreed to the proposition of only drawing ten people. Yes, the goal was reached!


    Next, Yang Ye and Yang Wang each picked five people from the crowd, then Yang Ye dered, ¡°Alright, enough chitchat. Let¡¯s start.¡±


    With those words, he too stepped off the stage.


    Thepetition began..

 Chapter 304: My Beloved Girl is Amazing!

    Chapter 304: My Beloved Girl is Amazing!


    Trantor: 549690339 |


    Just likest time, four dishes, a soup, and a dessert, but the portions have to be increased this time.


    Having Tong Sang as her assistant, Qiao Xiaomai quickly got to work.


    This time she decided to make something new: Buddha Jumps Over the Wall.


    As the name suggests, it¡¯s a dish so tempting that even a Buddha would bepelled to jump over a wall.


    Of course, the ingredients are equally tempting.


    The traditional Buddha Jumps Over the Wall dish uses dozens of ingredients, but Bailu Town has its limitations. However, that pales inparison to the use of water from the Spiritual Spring. Just a dozen ingredients are enough to astonish the locals.


    Her method was simple; sheyered pre-prepared abalone, sea cucumber, shark fin, bamboo shoots, tendons, chicken, mushrooms, pork, and fish maw one by one in a jar over two feet tall. Then she added the rich soup previously boiled with Spiritual Spring water at home and ced it on the stove to simmer over low heat.


    The chef, Niu, by ident, caught a glimpse of her rudimentary approach and couldn¡¯t help but sneer.


    What a waste, to mix such precious and high-quality ingredients haphazardly!


    Ignorant of the contempt she had aroused in the chef with her simple and rough approach, after cing the jar on the stove, Qiao Xiaomai began cooking the remaining dishes.


    Braised Lion¡¯s Head.


    West Lake Vinegar Fish.


    Veggies with dried tofu.


    Rice Wine Sweet Dumplings.


    Out of these, the Braised Lion¡¯s Head was the mostplicated, involving both mincing and frying, which takes a long time.


    Soon after she finished cooking these dishes, she began to make thest dessert: Sugar Steamed Crisps.


    This dessert originated from the novel ¡®Dream of the Red Chamber¡¯. She would¡¯ve liked to make ater generation¡¯s baked dessert, but without an oven, she had to give it up.


    When all her dishes were ready and the Buddha Jumps Over the Wall was still gently simmering, Chef Niu hadn¡¯t finished his dishes yet, so she and Tong Sang sat down together on the small stool in front of the stove.


    Tong Sang looked at her, secretly giving her a big thumbs up.


    Having simmered the Buddha Jumps Over the Wall for so long, its aroma had long since spread and dominantly suppressed the scent of the other dishes. It was particrly enticing.


    This had never happened before.


    The other dishes were also not inferior in any way.


    So, she must be praised for this dish and her cooking skills.


    Qiao Xiaomai saw the praise in his eyes, raised her mouth smugly, and blinked at him. Her clear, bright eyesplemented by long eyshes, were charming in a yful way.


    Tong Sang gazed at those eyes, obviously startled for a moment, then opened his mouth silently, and mouthed, ¡°Beautiful¡±.


    Qiao Xiaomai understood what he meant and, unable to hold back, burst outughing.


    Seeing the reminder in his eyes, she quickly covered her mouth with her hand.


    But her eyes still carried a joyous and aplished look.


    Her skills were praised by the one she had feelings for.


    Her beauty was appreciated as well.


    How wonderful!


    Tong Sang maintained a stern face, but theughter and affection in his dark eyes betrayed him. Having his beloved girl sitting beside him, he also felt wonderful.


    Yang Ye sat in the audience, unable to see Qiao Xiaomai and Tong Sang¡¯s flirtation because of the high tform and the stove in the way. However, the increasingly tempting aroma made it impossible for him to sit still, as if he was sitting on a pin cushion.


    The aroma, it really was absolutely heavenly!


    He had lived for twenty years, tasted countless delicacies, but never smelled such an enticing aroma.


    All the delicacies he had eaten before faded inparison with this dish. @@novelbin@@


    At this moment, hepletely forgot about the taste of those famous dishes; his whole being was captivated by this dominating aroma.


    With no regard for his image, he stretched his neck towards therge jar, the fan in his hand flickering restlessly.


    To be able to smell it but not taste it was just torture!


    When is it going to be ready!

 Chapter 322: Joy and Sorrow in Different Houses

    Chapter 322: Joy and Sorrow in Different Houses


    Trantor: 549690339 |


    The verdict was easy to handle, and the county magistrate quickly issued themand. Qiao Chang¡¯an was to serve ten years in jail and pay a fifty tael silver fine.


    Qiao Chang¡¯an was directly thrown into a prison cell, while Qiao Xiaomai, Tong Tiehu, and Ma Dongshu hastily returned to Anping Vige.


    By the time they arrived at Anping Vige, night had fallenpletely. Each of them went their separate ways.


    When Qiao Xiaomai arrived home with her donkey cart, Qiao Zhaodi and Qiao Yindi were still kneeling at her front door. Zhao Shufen was also there, but Qiao Xiaobao was nowhere to be seen.


    Moreover, Qiao Changkang and Wu Yinfeng were also present.


    The sisters, Qiao Zhaodi and Qiao Yindi, were disheveled, their clothes ragged, their eyes swollen and red. Seeing Qiao Xiaomai approaching, they bowed their heads in unison. Their pleas were repetitive, begging Xiaomai to show mercy and spare their family from being sold.


    Zhao Shufen also pleaded tearfully, asking about the oue of the verdict.


    The effect of the medicine on Qiao Changkang had worn off. Seeing her finally return from the county town, he immediately showed a joyous expression, ¡°Xiaomai, thank heavens you¡¯re back. How did it go?!¡±


    ¡°He was sentenced to ten years.¡± Qiao Xiaomai looked at him indifferently, then raised her hand to knock on the door, shouting, ¡°Dami, open the door, I¡¯m back!¡±


    As soon as her voice carried, the sounds of Qiao Dami¡¯s footsteps echoed in response, ¡°Coming!¡±


    At the same time, Zhao Shufen¡¯s sobbing grew louder. Her voice was hoarse from crying all afternoon,cking the shrillness it had at noon.


    But the despair in her rasping sobs was chilling, ¡°You damned fool! What am I supposed to do with our family now?!¡±


    In a farming family, men are the absolute worker and pir of the household. Without Qiao Chang¡¯an, who would do all the tough, dirty, and tiring work?


    Plus, without a man in the house, would she be bullied by the vigers?


    What would happen when the children grew up and were ready for marriage?


    How would she deal with all these problems!


    Qiao Xiaomai seemed indifferent to her crying, she looked at Qiao Changkang who was smiling gleefully, ¡°Wait here, I¡¯ll go get the silver bills.¡±


    ¡°No rush, no rush.¡± Qiao Changkang¡¯s voice trembled with excitement, but he maintained his politeness.


    Wu Yinfeng clung to his arm, her face also betraying her joy.


    Six hundred ten taels!


    We¡¯re rich! We¡¯re finally rich!


    They¡¯d be set for life!!!


    Qiao Xiaomai nced at the jubnt couple, then at Zhaodi and Yindi still bowing their heads incessantly. She pursed her lips and led the donkey cart into the courtyard.


    Qiao Dami followed behind her, silent, taking one step at a time.


    She unstrapped the nks from the donkey, tethered it in the shed, and asked, ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡±


    ¡°Big Sister, Dad¡¯s been crying all afternoon!¡±


    On hearing this, Qiao Xiaomai rubbed his little head, ¡°It¡¯s fine, let him cry. Have you eaten?¡±


    ¡°No, I was waiting for you.¡±


    ¡°Then wait a bit longer, I need to get the silver bills from Uncle Four.¡±


    Qiao Dami obediently agreed and stood still in the courtyard.


    Qiao Xiaomai returned to her room and took out six silver bills and ten taels of silver from her storage space. She then left the courtyard and handed the silver bills and coins to Qiao Changkang, ¡°This is the silver bill, it can be cashed at the Money House in the town. This is ten taels of silver.¡±


    ¡°Thank you, Uncle Four, for your kindness.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t mention it.¡± Qiao Changkang shakily epted the silver bills and coins, holding them like they were treasures. Wu Yinfeng, seeing his pitiful state, snatched all six silver bills and held them close to her heart. Pulling him, she started to leave, ¡°Xiaomai, we are going back first.¡±


    With Zhao Shufen present, thev had to be discreet about their sudden fortune.

 Chapter 306: Concede Actively

    Chapter 306: Concede Actively


    Trantor: 549690339 |


    However¡­


    His gaze shifted, sweeping over the Dean, Mrs Dean, Shopkeeper He, the master chef of Extreme Taste Restaurant, and Fan Jia. He locked eyes with each of them for a moment, his gaze profound.


    ¡°All right, let¡¯s taste Chef Niti¡¯s dish next,¡± he announced.


    Chef Niu had prepared a dish called ¡°All Birds Return to the Nest,¡± made primarily from shrimp and pork, shaped into little birds. Nine of these birds surrounded the central nest on the te.


    Everyone received half a bird. After tasting it, Yang Ye made a broad stroke with his pen, scoring it a nine on the paper.


    The Dean, Mrs Dean, Shopkeeper He, the master chef of Extreme Taste Restaurant, and Fan Jia also gave it a nine.


    The five people he chose gave it a nine.


    The five people that Yang Wang chose gave it a ten.


    He let out a sigh of relief.


    Out of twenty people, eleven were leaning towards Qiao Xiaomai. Following this trend, Qiao Xiaomai was sure to win.


    He let his guard down while Yang Wang¡¯s expression darkened.


    With this turn of events, Chef Niu, whom he had brought all the way here, was bound to lose.


    He didn¡¯t care about the Hot Spring Vi, what mattered to him was Qiao Xiaomai herself.


    After reviewing all he knew about Qiao Xiaomai in his mind, his brows furrowed, he spoke, ¡°Wait a moment, Fourth Brother, both Miss Qiao and Chef Niu demonstrate superior skills. I suggest that I join as a judge as well.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Yang Ye¡¯s eyebrows raised, ¡°Is that necessary, Third Brother?¡±


    With Yang Wang joining, there would be twenty-one judges.


    Of those, eleven sided with Qiao Xiaomai and ten with Chef Niu. So, Qiao Xiaomai would still win.


    The key in thispetition was that out of the original ten judges, six of them sided with Qiao Xiaomai.


    ¡°Third Brother, as for the ¡®Buddha Jumps Over the Wall,¡¯ I don¡¯t believe anyone would dare to score it a nine while undermining their conscience,¡± Yang Ye added.


    Even though everyone has different tastes, this dish was incredibly vourful and overpowering.


    He¡¯d noticed earlier that the judges had involuntarily taken deep breaths, seemingly trying to take in more of that enticing aroma.


    Having exhibited such behaviour, but then giving a score of nine after tasting the dish was something he would not tolerate.


    Yang Wang¡¯s face turned extremely sour.


    Sitting beneath the high tform, he was not a man to care about earthly pleasures, however, he found himself involuntarily taking deeper sniffs of the dish earlier.


    He couldn¡¯t control it, he was acting on instinct, his brainmanding his body.


    Realizing the unfavorable situation, he proposed a change in the voting rules.


    But he never expected Qiao Xiaomai to be such a great cook.


    Before thepetition, he had talked with all the judges except Yang Ye, Dean, and Mrs Dean in lofty terms, urging them to judge fairly, but that was merely superficial.


    Anyone whose head is on straight should understand his implied meaning.


    That¡¯s why when Yang Ye suggested adding ten more judges, he had readily agreed without hesitation.


    Yet much to his dismay, three peoplepletely missed his hint: Shopkeeper He, the master chef of Extreme Taste Restaurant, and Fan Jia.


    It was because of these three people that the current situation had him in a fix.


    What should he do now?


    Feeling restless, his gazended on Qiao Xiaomai again.


    Qiao Xiaomai stood on the high tform, her eyes downcast. Her face, devoid of makeup, rivaled the glow of dawn against snow. Her exceptional features and fair skin made her even more enchanting than the dolled-up nobledies in the Capital City.


    Wrapped in a coarse linen dress was a fair-skinned and beautiful woman. This sight was too tempting, striking a chord deep within his heart.


    She was just a vige girl.


    Her beauty was no less than that of the nobledies in the Capital City. @@novelbin@@


    Her culinary skills were so good even he had to admit it.


    Her temperament was so fiery that she dared to attack him with a knife.


    These three qualities simultaneously embodied in a vige girl, blending together perfectly.


    Almost instantly, he made a decision.


    He spoke, ¡°Fourth Brother, if Chef Niu loses in thispetition, I will send word immediately to clear out the Hot Spring Vi..¡±

 Chapter 307: No Mood to Celebrate

    Chapter 307: No Mood to Celebrate


    Trantor: 549690339 |


    Yang Wang conceded defeat so readily, which surprised Yang Ye. His handsome face was full of confusion, ¡°Eh? Third Brother, what are you up to?¡±


    ¡°What are you talking about? It¡¯s not about me scheming¡­ it¡¯s about Miss Qiao¡¯s amazing skill. I admit defeatpletely,¡± said Yang Wang.


    Yang Ye raised an eyebrow, his scrutinising gaze sweeping up and down Yang Wang, from top to bottom, again and again.


    Yang Wang remained unruffled, hands behind his back, allowing the scrutiny.


    After a moment, Yang Ye smirked, ¡°Then, Third Brother, you¡¯d better send word to your people. I¡¯ve been looking forward to that Hot Spring Vi for a while now.¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡± Yang Wang immediately called his attendant to send the message to the Capital City.


    ¡°Well then, everybody can go now. It¡¯s noon already, time for lunch.¡± Yang Ye waved his hand, indicating that the watching students should go do their things.


    The students were ready for this. After all, they could only watch, not eat. Rather than standing under the hot sun here, they decided to leave.


    The students dispersed quickly in small groups. Just as Yang Ye was about to speak to the judges, Principal Gu spoke up with a big smile, ¡°Your Highness, I think we shouldbine the dishes made by Miss Qiao and Chef Niu, and hold a small feast to celebrate the harvest. How¡¯s that?¡±


    ¡°Good idea, Bailu Town has had a bumper wheat harvest this year. We must celebrate¡­ let¡¯s head back to the small courtyard.¡± Mrs. Gu also chimed in enthusiastically, inviting Yang Ye and Yang Wang. @@novelbin@@


    Yang Ye


    He was nning to send the judges away, wanting the Buddha Jumps Over the Wall all to himself. But now this couple wanted to hold a harvest feast.


    What the hell?


    What does it have to do with him?


    They even concocted such ame excuse just to have a meal!


    Where¡¯s the dignity?


    ¡°Yes, let¡¯s also invite Miss Qiao. She has 500 acres of farnd. In the whole of Daqi, that¡¯s top-notch. I assume her family¡¯s wheat harvest must have been bountiful this year. We must celebrate.¡± Yang Ye grumbled to himself, but Yang Wang agreed with Principal Gu¡¯s suggestion.


    Yang Ye


    Qiao Xiaomai ¡°¡­¡±


    She responded modestly, ¡°Your Highness, my family¡¯s twenty-three acres of wheat were just burnt down to ashes. I really don¡¯t feel like celebrating.¡±


    ¡°You indeed had a busy bout there; you must be tired. Miss Qiao, you may return to the vige with Yang Wang. I¡¯ll send someone to invite you in a few days.¡± Yang Ye waved his hand, indicating Qiao Xiaomai to leave first.


    Hmm, Yang Wang¡¯s little tricks, he could guess with his pinky finger.


    If that¡¯s the case, he obviously couldn¡¯t let Qiao Xiaomai stay.


    ¡°Thankyou for your consideration, Your Highness.¡± Qiao Xiaomai bowed, then turned and walked toward the stairs.


    Tong Sang followed closely behind her. The two of them descended from the tform, one after the other.


    They didn¡¯t take anything, their hands were empty. They walked quickly towards the carriage.


    ¡°Alright, let¡¯s go and start the feast. Third Brother, let¡¯s go.¡± Yang Ye showed an affectionate smile, stretched out his long arm, and put it around Yang Wang¡¯s shoulder, ¡°Master Gu has some fine wine hidden away. It was given to him by our father when he retired. Now, it smells so mellow!¡±


    Yang Ye put more strength into his arm and, with a pull and a drag, led Yang Wang toward the amodation area.


    Yang Wang finally took his brooding gaze off from Qiao Xiaomai. He looked at Yang Ye and gave a chuckle, ¡°As you wish, Brother. Let¡¯s enjoy ourselves to the fullest today.¡±


    ¡°By the way, what happened to Miss Qiao¡¯s wheat field? Twenty-three acres burnt down is a big deal. I think we should conduct our own investigation when we have time.¡±

 Chapter 308: You, In Charge of Beauty Like a Flower

    Chapter 308: You, In Charge of Beauty Like a Flower


    Trantor: 549690339 |


    ¡°Oh wow, a tiny grain got burned and it got you worrying, Third Brother, needless to say. You¡¯ve been in Bailu Town for a few days already, when do you n to return to Capital City?¡± Yang Ye broached the subject while smiling.


    ¡°The people and thend are exceptional in Bailu Town, so naturally, 1 want to stay for a few more days.¡± Yang Wang also responded with a smile.


    ¡°I also find the residents and thend outstanding. The Academy has so many students from all over Daqi. Under the tutge of Master Gu, they have all be talented individuals. So, who among them caught your eye?¡±


    At this, Yang Wang¡¯s smile remained on his face, but his heart jolted.


    Yang Ye was simply an idle prince, so it didn¡¯t matter how long he stayed, but it was not the case for him.


    The Emperor did not fancy ministers forming factions within the court. He, being the Minister of Revenue who holds significant power, and considering there were quite a few children of senior officials and future officials in the academy, if he stayed here too long, would the Emperor think that he was cultivating loyalists in secret?


    ¡°Forget about all these exceptional people andnd talk, today we only discuss the harvest, let¡¯s get going.¡± Principal Gu followed up, steering the conversation towards the feast with augh.


    Yang Ye snapped his fingers, said with augh, ¡°Exactly, no rest until drunk.¡±


    Suppressing the odd feeling in his heart, Yang Wang also nodded with a smile, ¡°No rest until drunk.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai.


    It seems a swift battle is in order.


    After exiting the Academy, Qiao Xiaomai and Tong Sang allowed Yang Ye¡¯s men to go first, and they began to stroll around the town.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go to Extreme Taste Residence.¡± Tong Sang suggested.


    Qiao Xiaomai nodded. @@novelbin@@


    They had been busy for so long, and the enticing aroma had been lingering in the air around them all the while, she was hungry now.


    At Extreme Taste Residence, they got a private room on the second floor, ordered a few of the signature dishes, and started to eat at a rxed pace.


    ¡°Later, 1¡¯11 buy some dried abalone and scallops to bring home. That Buddha jumping over the wall dish, I want to try making it again.¡± Qiao Xiaomai said, ¡°I can¡¯t get enough of the smell, even when 1 made it before, it wasn¡¯t even half as fragrant as this.¡±


    ¡°Just take it straight from the Extreme Taste Residence, put it on my ount.¡± Tong Sang said.


    ¡°Ohoho.¡± Qiao Xiaomai couldn¡¯t help butugh, ¡°Feels like I¡¯vetched onto a wealthy guy.¡±


    ¡°But isn¡¯t it your grandfather who manages the ounts for Extreme Taste Residence? Isn¡¯t this a bit inappropriate?¡±


    ¡°Once we get home I¡¯ll talk to my grandfather about this. Truth is, I¡¯ve been the one managing the ledgers for Extreme Taste Residence in Bailu Town, which allows me frequently visit under the guise of selling game. I¡¯ve been working for free for so many years, now that there¡¯s a girl I cherish, it¡¯s time I start drawing a sry.¡±


    Listening to this, Qiao Xiaomai looked at Tong Sang¡¯s handsome face, the corners of her mouth involuntarily curling upwards.


    ¡°Being an unpaidborer isn¡¯t all that bad, you¡¯re not really in need of spending money anyway.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t 1 now have a ce to spend money? Although 1 do have some loose change, it¡¯s too scarce. 1 want to be able to buy you something every now and again.¡± Tong Sang looked up, his shiny ck eyes focused on her, his face serious.


    He handed over his private savings to Qiao Xiaomai.


    And decided to give her his sry in the future as well.


    But when he¡¯s out with Qiao Xiaomai, he still wants to buy her something.


    Yes, even if he were to hand all his money over to Qiao Xiaomai, when she wants to buy something, he still hopes to be the one who purchases it for her.


    So, this means he needs to earn money, earn money, and earn more money.


    In the past, without a reason to spend money, Tong Tiehu used his young age as the reason to limit his ie. But unsurprisingly, the situation is different now.


    The benefits he should get, must be realized!


    Qiao Xiaomai held his gaze, her euphoric smile reaching her eyes as the corners of her mouth curled even more, forming two cute dimples on her cheeks. She said, her almond-shaped eyes curved like crescent moons, ¡°It¡¯s only a matter of doing the ounts; it shouldn¡¯t earn you more than a few coppers anyway. In the future, you might as well just continue working for me.¡±


    ¡°I have skills, in the future, I will work and provide for our home, and you just have to continue being as beautiful as a flower..¡±

 Chapter 309: She’s Flirting with Him!

    Chapter 309: She¡¯s Flirting with Him!


    Trantor: 549690339 I


    Tong Sang unconsciously furrowed his sword-like brows, ¡°I, am considered as beautiful as a flower?¡±


    ¡°Did 1 ever praise your face? Your face deserves these four words,¡± Qiao Xiaomai lifted her hand and gave him a thumbs up.


    Tong Sang


    Seeing his speechless face, Qiao Xiaomai raised her eyebrows, ¡°Just that pot of Buddha¡¯s Temptation just now, be it at Extreme Taste or Zuixian Building, if you want to buy it, it¡¯s not for sale without a thousand taels.¡±


    Tong Sang


    Qiao Xiaomai began tough, ¡°So, how about it? Can 1 support a family with my money-making capabilities?¡±


    Tong Sang


    He could also do quite a lot, but to earn so much money all at once¡­


    He could only rob.


    ¡°Nothing to say, right?¡± Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s small face was full of smugness.


    Tong Sang nodded.


    ¡°So, just be at ease and follow me. I¡¯ll support our family, and you can just be my helper. We¡¯ll eat meat and drink soup together in the future.¡± Qiao Xiaomai patted his shoulder with a hearty tone.


    Tong Sang felt her sincerity towards him. @@novelbin@@


    Conversely, she also had genuine feelings for him.


    For something as trivial as who pays when shopping, she really didn¡¯t care, especially since Tong Sang gave her all his private money.


    io


    You can¡¯t force a seventeen-year-old boy to rack his brain to make money, having sincerity is enough!


    She has received all of his affection for her!


    ¡°Are you afraid that I¡¯ll be tired?¡± Tong Sang seriously pondered over her words and asked uncertainly.


    ¡°Yes.¡± Qiao Xiaomai honestly admitted.


    ¡°How could I be tired doing things for you.¡± Just thinking about doing something for her, he felt an endless strength throughout his body!


    ¡°If you have extra energy, focus on romancing me, don¡¯t overthink.¡±


    Tong Sang


    ¡°Like 1 said, I don¡¯t care about money. What I care about is feelings.¡± Qiao Xiaomai took a scoop of soup with her hand and slowly sipped it, saying, ¡°Don¡¯t think too much, everything is fine now.¡±


    Tong Sang looked at her, smacked his lips, then began tough.


    ¡°Okay.¡± He nodded.


    ¡°Good boy.¡± Qiao Xiaomai smiled in satisfaction, took a spoonful of soup from the bowl, and passed it over, ¡°Open up.¡±


    This overly affectionate gesture left Tong Sang stunned.


    This, this, this spoon just came out of the mouth of his beloved girl!


    ¡°Drink up.¡± Qiao Xiaomai urged.


    Tong Sang swallowed subconsciously, opened his mouth, took the spoon into his mouth, and immediately, the taste of red bean soup filled his mouth, entering his heart from his mouth, sweet to the core.


    Qiao Xiaomai watched his slightly rigid movement, couldn¡¯t help but purse her lips inughter.


    Seeing this sincerely innocent yet steady and reliable young man, she felt like she had picked up a treasure!


    Just as she was about to speak, a knock came from outside, along with the voice of Shopkeeper He, ¡°Miss Qiao, may 1e in?¡±


    ¡°Come in.¡± Qiao Xiaomai winked at Tong Sang, took the spoon out of his mouth.


    Then she put the spoon into the bowl, scooped another spoonful of red bean soup and drank it slowly.


    Tong Sang¡¯s calm eyes suddenly widened, is this, is this her flirting with him?!


    She is flirting with him!!


    And she did it on purpose!!!


    Even if he wanted to do something, Shopkeeper He had already pushed the door of the private room and came in!


    He could only forcefully suppress the surges of emotion in his heart and looked over calmly.


    Qiao Xiaomai also looked over, ¡°Shopkeeper He, is something the matter?¡±


    Shopkeeper He walked over, sat down next to the table, with a solemn expression, ¡°1 just overheard Prince Duan and Prince Wei¡¯s conversation. Judging by Prince Duan¡¯s attitude, he clearly has his eyes on you. You have to be careful..¡±

 Chapter 310: How good am I at making money?

    Chapter 310: How good am I at making money?


    Trantor: 549690339 |


    The Dean of the Grain Academy held a small banquet to celebrate the harvest, and Shopkeeper He Zhanggui naturally didn¡¯t qualify to attend, so he came back.


    Upon learning that Qiao Xiaomai and Tong Sang were there, he immediately went upstairs.


    After hearing He Zhanggui, Qiao Xiaomai responded casually while still sipping her soup, ¡°I know.¡±


    ¡°You knew?!¡± He Zhanggui was taken aback.


    Xiaomai nodded, ¡°I¡¯m not a fool.¡±


    She endured being stared at with a chilling gaze for a long time, a gaze filled with almost naked desire to strip her bare.


    If she couldn¡¯t understand such intent in those eyes, she would¡¯ve lived her two lives in vain.


    ¡°Aren¡¯t you worried?¡± He Zhanggui¡¯s face still held a shocked expression.


    ¡°Why worry? With Prince Wei present, can he forcibly take me? I am officially recognized by the Emperor now.¡± Qiao Xiaomai continued to sip her soup while talking.


    ¡°But¡­ he is, after all, a powerful prince.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not afraid.¡± Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s demeanor remained calm.


    Publicly, she had the Emperor Yongan for support.


    Privately, if that mad prince dared toy a finger on her, she would definitely give him an unexpected surprise.


    However, what if she hurt the Prince? How would Emperor Yongan judge then?


    He Zhanggui, not privy to Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s secret, saw herpletely unconcerned, so he subconsciously looked towards Tong Sang.


    He didn¡¯t know the true rtionship between Tong Sang and Qiao Xiaomai, but about today¡¯s test, Tong Sang signaled him, so he and the chef supported Qiao Xiaomai, pretending not to understand what was said.


    In the end, Tong Sang just gave him a slight shake of his head.


    He was stunned, but quickly understood. Well then, since Tong Sang shook his head, he wouldn¡¯t bother arguing.


    ¡°Just be careful.¡±


    Having said so, his demeanor quickly changed back to his usual businesslike manner, full of amazement and admiration in his voice, ¡°Miss Qiao, the Buddha¡¯s Delight you just made¡­¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s face lit up with a smile as she interrupted him, ¡°One thousand taels, for the recipe.¡±


    ¡°One thousand taels?!¡±


    ¡°Yes, one thousand taels, just for the right to use the recipe. If you want exclusive rights, that would be ten thousand taels,¡± Qiao Xiaomai calmly continued her quotation.


    She bid so low in the past because she was weak.


    Moreover, she always felt awkward about selling something she didn¡¯t invent: as long as the price was reasonable, it was fine.


    But now, it¡¯s different. She has found her backing in Emperor Yongan.


    Furthermore, the money from Jiwei Residence, rather than using it for some kind of rebellion, might as well go into her pocket.


    The same goes for Zuixian Building. Chancellor Shen isn¡¯t a good man either.


    He Zhanggui


    It¡¯s only been three months. The same person, but the price she quoted suddenly jumped from fifty taels to the sky.


    Ten thousand taels!!!


    Is this really the same person who used to haggle over prices? The difference now is that those big numbers which were previously just idle talk have now be realistic.


    Only three months, how could such a big change happen!


    Seeing He Zhanggui¡¯s silence, Qiao Xiaomai leisurely said, ¡°Are you reluctant? Later, Shopkeeper Zhou from Zuixian Building will ask. However, as he didn¡¯t choose me earlier, 1 quoted him two thousand taels. Shopkeeper He, 1 have already given you a discount!¡±


    He Zhanggui


    Wiping his face with his hand, he nodded with aplex expression, ¡°One thousand taels, please give me a copy of the recipe.¡±


    His tone was very much like the customers who used to line up at the door to buy Fried Noodle Strips.


    Xiaomaiughed, mirroring the waiter¡¯s tone, ¡°Alright! Sir, get your pen and paper, I¡¯ll dictate, and you note down!¡±


    With aplex expression on his face, He Zhanggui got up, left the private room, and went to get the paper, pen, and silver notes. @@novelbin@@


    As soon as he left, Qiao Xiaomai immediately turned to Tong Sang.. Her eyebrows raised, her peach-like eyes filled with triumph, ¡°What do you think of my money-making skills?¡±

 Chapter 340: Where is the Truth Elixir?

    Chapter 340: Where is the Truth Elixir?


    Trantor: 549690339 |


    ¡°Shall I recite a poem or y a word game for you?¡± asked Tong Sang.


    He was both literate and skilled in martial arts, but his abilities were insignificant to Qiao Xiaomai, who had seen many splendid performances in her previous life.


    The lovely girl was worldly and hard to appease.


    ¡°Who needs you to recite poems and y word games?¡± Qiao Xiaomai rolled her eyes, pointing to the small fish and snails in the basin in front of her, ¡°Come, clean these up for me!¡±


    ¡°Sure.¡± Tong Sang moved swiftly to sit on the small bench, scraping the scales and cleaning the insides of a small fish, his handsome face breaking into a slight smile, ¡°I enjoy assisting you.¡±


    ¡°Stop with your sweet talk.¡±


    So annoying!


    The better he behaved at this moment, the more she couldn¡¯t help but think of Yang Ye¡¯s test the day before. She couldn¡¯t bear the idea of anything happening to him!


    ¡°Seeing you makes me feel like I¡¯m dipped in honey, I feel sweet all over.¡± Tong Sang put the cleaned fish into another basin. He didn¡¯t look at Qiao Xiaomai as he spoke casually.


    But this casual, natural attitude is the one that prates Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s heart.


    ¡°You¡¯ve also been getting your share of sweetness, is it not?¡± Tong Sang raised his head and asked with a smile, his eyes sparkling.


    ¡°What are you talking about? Do you think you¡¯re a sweetheart?¡± Qiao Xiaomai raised her eyebrow, her tone fierce.


    ¡°You¡¯re the sweetheart, you¡¯re the one infecting me with your sweetness.¡± Tong Sang lowered his head again, continuing his work.


    Qiao Xiaomai ¡°¡­¡±


    An unexpectedpliment, sweet just to the point of being sickening.


    It was so disgusting!


    She felt goosebumps!


    ¡°Young man, don¡¯t use such greasy expressions to praise people in the future, can you?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not ttering you, I¡¯m just telling the truth. You¡¯re the source of this sweetness. Seeing you, both my mind and body involuntarily be sweet as well.¡± Tong Sang continues without lifting his head.


    Qiao Xiaomai ¡°¡­¡±


    She raises her arm and rubs her face against it.


    The coarse feel of the linen makes her cheek slightly sting. She takes a deep breath, ¡°Alright, go to work, don¡¯t bother me here.¡±


    ¡°I will clean these, aren¡¯t we inviting Ma Dongshu for lunch?¡± asked Tong Sang.


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t let him confuse you, do not reveal any clues.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t need you to tell me that, hurry up.¡± Qiao Xiaomai urges him on.


    Tong Sang purses his lips, stands up and says, ¡°I¡¯ll go and check out the situation first.¡±


    ¡°Go ahead!¡± Qiao Xiaomai tells him without lifting her head.


    Then Tong Sang leaves.


    Qiao Xiaomai, holding the small fish, pauses. The look on her face seems lost.


    Muchter, she sighs and she continues her work.


    The lover she chose for herself, she has to stick with him, even if it brings hardship.


    The time passes quickly, as noontime approaches, Ma Dongshu as promised arrives. He brought along a small crock of wine and a piece of silk cloth.


    Qiao Xiaomai couldn¡¯t help butugh, ¡°Lord Ma, you¡¯re too kind. The Truth Elixir is a hundred taels silver a piece. I still owe you a hundred taels.¡±


    ¡°All, I just made that up.¡± Ma Dongshu chuckles, and stuffs the cloth into Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s arms, then sits down next to the small table under the tree without any awkwardness.


    Qiao Changshun with a cheerfulugh also walks over and sits down across from him, ¡°I have to thank you, Brother Ma, for what happened that day.¡±


    ¡°No need to thank, I was just bluffing him. There¡¯s no such thing as Truth Elixir, if there was, no one in the world would dare to lie.¡± Ma Dongshuughs again.


    ¡°Bluffing?¡± Qiao Xiaomai raised her eyebrow.

 Chapter 341: Tong Family’s Great Grandfather

    Chapter 341: Tong Family¡¯s Great Grandfather


    Trantor: 549690339 |


    ¡°Exactly, ehm. That green pill can induce hallucinations, after taking it, all things before one¡¯s eyes look distorted. Qiao Changkang, being a countryman with little knowledge, was panic-stricken after taking it, so I just had to bluff him a little, and he believed me.¡±


    ¡°Then even Qiao Chang¡¯an believed it and thought it was effective.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai ¡°¡­¡±


    No wonder she thought Ma Dongshu looked like a chatan that day.


    It turns out he was indeed bluffing.


    ¡°Anyway, thank you. Dami, go to the kitchen and serve the dishes,¡± Qiao Xiaomai said with a smile.


    Qiao Dami crisply responded with an ¡°okay,¡± and trotted off into the kitchen.


    There was no rule in the Qiao family that women and children couldn¡¯t sit at the table, so after Qiao Xiaomai returned the cloth to the room, she sat down with Qiao Dami.


    Ma Dongshu didn¡¯t mind this either, ncing at the full spread of splendid dishes on the table, his smile was like a Maitreya Buddha¡¯s, ¡°I can finally taste Miss Qiao¡¯s cooking again.¡±


    ¡°Just simple homely food. I hope you won¡¯t mind, Master Ma.¡±


    ¡°Sure don¡¯t, not at all,¡± Ma Dongshu shook his head, opened the wine jug, and poured two bowls of wine.


    He set a bowl in front of Qiao Changsun. He took the other bowl, a nostalgic look shed across his well-fed face, ¡°Your culinary skill, brings back memories of my mentor. He once described a bowl of white rice, saying it had a translucent brightness, and its fragrance could be smelled from a distance.¡±


    ¡°Moreover, the rice¡¯s fragrance was refreshing and delighted the heart. One sniff could make a person feel invigorated.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai blinked, how could a bowl of rice be translucent and bright?


    ¡°The most amazing thing is, this bowl of rice could revive the dead, rejuvenate the bones. Once, the previous emperor was seriously injured, all doctors were helpless. But after eating this bowl of rice, his injuries rapidly healed and in no time, he was back to his original state.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai ¡°¡­¡±


    Seeing Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s speechless expression, Ma Dongshu took a sip of wine, set down his bowl, stretched out his finger, and pointed at her, ¡°Don¡¯t believe it, huh?¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai, Qiao Changsun, and Qiao Dami all shook their heads in unison.


    Ma Dongshu¡¯s face took on a solemn expression and his tone became mysterious, quite like the day he was conning Qiao Changkang and Qiao Chang¡¯an, ¡°This bowl of rice, was made by a woman.¡±


    ¡°A woman?¡± Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s heart skipped a beat. She inexplicably thought of Tong Sang¡¯s great-grandmother, who had been a mistress before rising to power.


    ¡°Yes. This woman, she¡¯s extraordinary, extremely extraordinary.¡± Ma Dongshu pped the table, rolled up his sleeves, and his face held a kind of reverence.


    ¡°What makes her so extraordinary?¡± Qiao Xiaomai couldn¡¯t help but ask.


    ¡°She mesmerized a generation of heroes to the extent they abandoned their wives and neglected the empire, all for her, the beauty.¡± Ma Dongshu paused, his gaze sweeping over the trio, seeing the look of intense concentration on all their faces, he nodded appreciatively.


    He picked up his bowl and took a big gulp, then picked up a piece of deep-fried small dried fish with his chopsticks and, after a few chews, swallowed it before speaking again, ¡°Have you ever heard of Prince Pingnan, Gu Yu?¡±


    The three from the Qiao family all shook their heads together.


    But although Qiao Xiaomai shook her head, she was certain in her heart.


    The woman Ma Dongshu referred to was indeed Tong Sang¡¯s great-grandmother, who had been a mistress before seizing power.


    The surname of Tong¡¯s great-grandfather was initially Gu, but after Daqi was established, the Tong family needed to hide their real surname and assumed their actual great-grandmother¡¯s surname: Tong.


    And sure enough, Ma Dongshu hade to question her.


    He got straight to the point immediately, he really was rather eager.


    ¡°Have you ever heard of how, during the time of war and chaos of the previous dynasty, several powerfulndlords each imed kingship and one faction even stormed the Imperial Pce and looted the National Treasury,¡± Ma Dongshu nced at Qiao Xiaomai, then asked again.

 Chapter 342: The Retired Emperor and Great Grandfather

    Chapter 342: The Retired Emperor and Great Grandfather


    Trantor: 549690339


    ¡°No, we haven¡¯t.¡± Qiao Xiaomai spoke, shaking his head together with Qiao Changshun and Qiao Dami.


    News was not easily essible here, and at the time, the war had caused great upheaval. People lost their homes and lived in constant fear for their lives. They hardly had the leisure to pay attention to such incidents.


    Seeing this, Ma Dongshu continued, ¡°That powerful figure who stormed into the imperial pce and looted the national treasury was none other than Prince Pingnan, Gu Yu.¡±


    ¡°Gu Yu was already married with children, but upon meeting this woman, he abandoned his wife and married her. Later, he sparked a revolt and started fighting his way from his hometown to the capital city.¡±


    ¡°During all this, this woman contributed greatly. Legend has it that she invented a divine weapon that could st people into pieces. With this weapon, Prince Pingnan was invincible and managed to fight his way from his hometown all the way to the capital city.¡±


    ¡°And then?¡± Qiao Xiaomai calmly asked.


    As for the specifics of this part of the story, Tong Sang was not privy to them.


    By the time Tong Tiehu and Tong Liu were sent away and reached Anping Vige under the care of the mistress¡¯s great-grandmother, everything had ended.


    They were unclear on how their great-grandfather and the mistress¡¯s great-grandmother fought on the battlefield.


    Ma Dongshu paused, took a drink, and picked up a piece of cold pork ears with his chopsticks. He continued after swallowing, ¡°In the midst of this, Prince Pingnan and the present retired emperor struck up an immediate rapport and became best friends.¡±


    QiaoXiaomai: ¡°¡­¡±


    Oh my God!


    There¡¯s this part of the story too?!


    She struggled to maintain aposed expression, not blinking or twitching an eysh, only disying moderate surprise while her clear peony-eyes looked at Ma Dongshu.


    Ma Dongshu, with his eyebrows furrowed, stroked his beard, ¡°But for some reason,ter on, these two¡­fell out.¡±


    ¡°However, the one who drove Prince Pingnan out of the capital city was not the retired Emperor, but another powerful person.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai remained silent.


    She knew about this.


    The person who drove the Tong family¡¯s great-grandfather out of the capital city wasn¡¯t the Yang family.


    However, the person the Tong family¡¯s great-grandfather held a grudge against was indeed the Yang family. He not only held a grudge, he even incited Tong Tiehu and Tong Liu to rebel.


    ¡°The one who drove Prince Pingnan, Gu Yu, out of the capital city was the Eastern Lord, Fu Xuan. Not only did Fu Xuan force Gu Yu out of the capital city, but he also trapped Gu Yu¡¯s thirty thousand troops with his one hundred thousand soldiers near Qingyi Manor, not far from the capital city.¡±


    ¡°Qingyi Manor, a good name. ¡®Qing¡¯ symbolizes emotions, which Gu Yu held in high regard. He gathered the elite from his thirty thousand soldiers to form a small assault team. With this team, he broke through Fu Xuan¡¯s encirclement and safely evacuated the woman.¡±


    ¡°Prince Pingnan, Gu Yu, died in battle at Qingyi Manor after sending his beloved woman out of the encirclement.¡±


    ¡°With his death, the national treasury treasures he had stolen disappeared without a trace.¡±


    ¡°Fu Xuan turned over every inch of the ground in Qingyi Manor, even digging three feet into the ground, but still didn¡¯t find a single treasure.¡±


    ¡°Thus, there were rumors in the jianghu that the woman took the treasure away.¡±


    Ma Dongshu paused here and drained the wine in his bowl.


    He wiped his mouth and poured himself another bowl.


    ¡°Brother Ma, that¡¯s impossible, isn¡¯t it? The national treasury¡­ So many treasures¡­ How could a woman carry them all out of an encirclement of a hundred thousand men?¡± Qiao Changshun spoke again.


    This story was undoubtedly a fairy tale to him.


    However, he listened very attentively, fully engrossed.


    ¡°That remains a mystery.¡± Ma Dongshu muttered, taking up his bowl with one hand and chopsticks in the other. He started munching heartily, eating and drinking in turn, his demeanor quite mboyant. ¡°During the years of war, there should have been many stories and legends.¡±


    ¡°But the retired Emperor didn¡¯t allow it, so many things were unknown to themon people.¡±

 Chapter 314: Divine Medicine

    Chapter 314: Divine Medicine


    Trantor: 549690339 |


    She was also fed up with Wu Yinfeng¡¯s strong words about forcing Qiao Xiaobao into the scene.


    No matter how unbearable and domineering Qiao Xiaobao usually is, it¡¯s too much to involve a child¡¯s life with such venomousnguage at such a time.


    The real issue is confronting Qiao Chang¡¯an, the main culprit!


    ¡°What¡¯s the fuss? Sit down and talk nicely.¡± She spoke as she pulled her small face.


    ¡°Is this something that can be discussed calmly? Xiaomai, Qiao Chang¡¯an is responsible for your father¡¯s fractured leg, and he won¡¯t admit it!¡± Qiao Changkang spoke loudly.


    The fight between him and Qiao Chang¡¯an was still ongoing.


    Qiao Xiaomai looked over, her brows furrowed tightly, ¡°You two should also stop fighting, can fights solve the problem?¡±


    Both of them were bruised and bloody, she had had enough of their zealous but unattractive performance.


    Just as her words settled, someone immediately followed up with a high and husky voice, ¡°Yes, fights will not solve the problem! I, an elderly man, should handle this!¡±


    His strong presence instantly attracted everyone¡¯s attention.


    Qiao Xiaomai also looked over, her brows furrowing tighter, it was Ma Dongshu.


    Instead of scurrying around in the deep mountains, what is he doing at her doorstep?


    Laughing cheerfully while stroking his beard, Ma Dongshu walked over saying, ¡°Brother Qiao, I ran into Dami earlier, and he said there was a bigmotion at your door, so I invited myself over.¡±


    Qiao Changshun hurriedly weed him, ¡°Brother Ma,e sit,e sit. Xiaomai, quickly bring a chair.¡±


    ¡°Oh, no need, no need.¡± Ma Dongshu dismissed him, pointing at the bloodied Qiao Chang¡¯an and Qiao Changkang in the middle of the brawl, ¡°I¡¯m here to resolve the matter.¡±


    ¡°I wonder what method you may have, Elder Ma?¡± Qiao Xiaomai asked respectfully.


    She called off the fight, but she had no good solutions in mind.


    The incident urred too long ago, there¡¯s no physical evidence, just Qiao Changkang¡¯s sole testimony. If Qiao Chang¡¯an insists on denying it, she would indeed have no other methods.


    She originally thought that with the prospect of six hundred taels of silver, Qiao Changkang woulde up with a safe method.


    Little did she know that his only method was getting him drunk, coaxing.


    Ugh, she overestimated the intelligence of the Qiange couple.


    Now Ma Dongshu took the initiative to step up, she looked forward to it.


    By now, Ma Dongshu hade close. Heughed heartily, drew a white porcin small bottle from his arms, held it high and asked everyone present, ¡°Do you know what this is?¡±


    Naturally, none of those present knew and they all shook their heads.


    He jingled the small bottle in his hand, the smile on his face turned into a solemn look, ¡°This is the legendary Truth Elixir.¡±


    When he mentioned the Truth Elixir, his solemn expression turned mysterious, and his voice became elusive, ¡°Once you eat a pill, your mind will be disoriented, and you will answer whatever is asked, therefore it is called the Truth Elixir.¡±


    ¡°All the gangs in the rivers andkes are fighting for this divine drug. As long as they have this drug, there will be no mouth that cannot be pried open, no secret that cannot be asked.¡±


    ¡°This drug costs a hundred taels of silver for just one pill!¡± @@novelbin@@


    Qiao Xiaomai ¡°¡­¡±


    Upon hearing this, she couldn¡¯t help but twitch her mouth.


    Is he asking her for silver?


    Moreover, this drug, just like the rumors that were spread inter generations, all you need is to be sprayed with it once, and you will obediently hand over your bank card and mobile phone and so on.


    Is Ma Dongshu really a chatan?

 Chapter 344: Take This Fabric to Make Clothes

    Chapter 344: Take This Fabric to Make Clothes


    Trantor: 549690339 |


    ¡°Miss Qiao, your statement is somewhat biased. It was only thest few emperors of the previous dynasty who were ipetent. The initial rulers were not too bad. The treasures they umted did note with bloodshed.¡± Ma Dongshu said.


    ¡°But I cannot discern which ones are tainted with blood and which ones are not.¡± Qiao Xiaomai looked at him with clear eyes.


    Qiao Changshun nodded repeatedly on the side, ¡°Xiaomai is right. I remember my father saying that in the previous dynasty, the tax was too heavy. Ordinary families simply couldn¡¯t afford to pay. The tax paid in silver indeed was stained with blood.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s inauspicious, we shouldn¡¯t touch it.¡±


    He spoke and nodded heavily again, lifted his wine bowl towards Ma Dongshu, ¡°Brother Ma, let¡¯s change the subject. This is a good day, let¡¯s talk about something auspicious.¡±


    Ma Dongshu ¡°¡­¡±


    Heughed, clinked his wine bowl with Qiao Changshun¡¯s, and said, ¡°It¡¯s Miss Qiao¡¯s great cooking skills that unconsciously reminded me of that bowl of rice, leading to all these topics. My apologies, let¡¯s drink to that.¡±


    ¡°No worries, it just slipped out.¡± Qiao Changshun said with a simple smile, ¡°Speaking of which, it¡¯s almost time to pay the Spring Tax. Ah, I have lived for decades, but I have never looked forward to the tax payment day like this.¡±


    In the past, every time it was time to pay taxes, his heart ached, wishing time could stop and not go to that day.


    Unlike now, with enough silver and wheat, he¡¯s confident!


    ¡°Indeed, it¡¯s all thanks to His Majesty¡¯s good governance. The world is at peace!¡± Ma Dongshuughed.


    ¡°Exactly, exactly.¡± Qiao Changshun wholeheartedly agreed and immediately started discussing with Ma Dongshu how good Emperor Yongan really is.


    Ma Dongshu naturally ttered him to the sky, hence making the dinner table harmonious.


    A faint smile remained on Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s face, but her curious mind nearly slipped out several times: Tong Tiehu¡¯s great-grandfather was actually sworn brothers with the retired emperor. What on earth happened?!


    How did they fall out?


    If Tong Tiehu¡¯s ancestor left a will for Tong Tiehu and Tong Liu to overthrow the rule by the Yang family, then what is the Yang family¡¯s attitude towards the Tong family?


    If the Tong family gives up the rebellion and stops causing trouble, would the Yang family give the Tong family a chance to live in peace?


    This question, has no answer.


    Until Ma Dongshu left, Qiao Xiaomai didn¡¯t manage to ask.


    She couldn¡¯t ask.


    If she did, it might fall into a trap Ma Dongshu set up. He said he didn¡¯t know how Tong family¡¯s great-grandfather and the retired emperor fell out. What if he deliberately set a trap and lured her into it?


    Ah, the dilemma!


    Qiao Changshun had a bit of alcohol, and his face was as flushed as if he was wearing rouge, his head also became dizzy. Qiao Xiaomai didn¡¯t let him move around and helped him to rest.


    Soon, Qiao Zhaodi and Qiao Yindi, the sisters arrived.


    Qiao Xiaomai didn¡¯t assign them tasks. She took out the silk cloth that Ma Dongshu brought, ¡°Here, take this and make a couple of outfits.¡±


    Qiao Zhaodi was startled, and repeatedly shook her head and waved her hands, ¡°No, no, it¡¯s too valuable.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not expensive. Our family is well-off, and I n to rece all our hemp clothes with silk ones. The material of this piece is good, you both take it and make a couple of outfits.¡±


    ¡°Let the vigers see thating to my house was the right decision.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Qiao Zhaodi and Qiao Yindi exchanged a nce. Qiao Zhaodi came forward and took the piece of cloth, ¡°Thank you, Sister Mai.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re wee. Just remember, this fabric is for the two of you to make dresses, don¡¯t you dare give it to anyone else. If I find out, I will get angry.¡± Qiao Xiaomai added.

 Chapter 346: 346: Don’t Panic!

    Chapter 346: 346: Don¡¯t Panic!<div>


    Trantor: 549690339 |


    Observing them for two days, the sisters were honest and hardworking; qualities that Qiao Xiaomai appreciated in people.


    She was usually generous towards those she liked.<div>


    Moreover, her current offer was meant to give the sisters something to look forward to.


    She wasn¡¯t sure whether they could fully sever ties with Zhao Shufen, but she didn¡¯t particrly care. As long as they were honest and didn¡¯t cause trouble, she wouldn¡¯t mistreat them.


    Just like what Yang Ye advised her yesterday, a bright future awaited those who refrained from causing trouble.


    The sisters Qiao Zhaodi and Qiao Yindi were once again taken aback by this hopeful vision of the future.


    She was going to prepare their dowries?


    The sisters weren¡¯t young anymore and ideally should have been betrothed by now. However, Zhao Shufen wanted them to stay and help with the household chores for a few more years, dying their marriages.


    To their surprise, after only a day or two in Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s home, they received this promise.


    They weren¡¯t here to serve as ves but to fall into a blessed nest!


    ¡°Don¡¯t stand there, keep going. I bought some fabric yesterday. After you two have finished making your clothes, make a few sets for me, your uncle, and Dami,¡± Qiao Xiaomai said.


    The fabrics that Yang Wang sent were quite good; it was enough for all three of them.


    Hearing this, Qiao Zhaodi and Qiao Yindi got busy, flying their needles and threading swiftly.<div>


    But their expressions had changed from earlier. Apart from being numb, there was something lively on their faces.


    It¡¯s as if the almost dried-out trees had met with sweet rain, renewing their vitality and spirit!


    It wasn¡¯t long before nightfall, and Tong Sang arrived on time.


    He¡¯d spent a long time in the primeval forest today, selecting a ce to start digging tomorrow.


    ¡°This¡¯ll probably take about seven or eight days,¡± he estimated.


    ¡°That¡¯s pretty fast,¡± Qiao Xiaomai remarked.


    Her space was about the size of a ser field, three meters high. For Tong Sang to dig a hole of that size and bury the contents of her space, seven or eight days was indeed pretty fast.


    ¡°By the way, Ma Dongshu mentioned today that your great-grandfather and ***** were sworn brothers. Did you know that?¡± she asked.


    Surprise flickered across Tong Sang¡¯s handsome face, disbeliefcing his voice. ¡°Really?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, your great-grandmother really dropped the ball there, not informing you about anything, only asking your two grandfathers to rebel, and dragging you into it,¡± Qiao Xiaomai couldn¡¯t help but roll her eyes. ¡°And your great grandfather, all he said was that he wanted to raise a storm, but what the hell is this ¡®storm¡¯ about?¡±


    ¡°Rebellion is a big deal, they didn¡¯t even give you the whole picture!¡±<div>


    At this point, Qiao Xiaomai couldn¡¯t help but grind her teeth, ¡°Theirck ofmunication has left you in a passive and agonizing position!¡±


    Tong Sang touched his nose, remaining silent.


    After all, these two were his elders; he couldn¡¯t criticize them.


    ¡°Hmm¡­ my grandfather said that Prince Wei is very likely trying to trick us. I am just a rural boy with surprisingly high martial arts skills, so he has directed his suspicion towards me. If he had any evidence or clues, he would have sent people already instead of staying silent,¡± he exined.


    ¡°He spent the whole day at the Academy today, not going out. Prince Duan also didn¡¯t go out.¡±


    ¡°Really?¡± Qiao Xiaomai thought back to Yang Ye¡¯s strange smile, her eyebrows furrowing.


    Was Yang Ye really trying to trick her?


    ¡°Whether it¡¯s a trick or not, we can¡¯t panic. We should carry on with our usual tasks and not show any signs of anxiety.¡±


    ¡°The day after tomorrow is when the Spring Tax is due. After the tax is collected, many families will have nted their crops of Xiaomi and sweet potatoes, and your manor can start its construction.¡±

 Chapter 347: Paying the Spring Tax

    Chapter 347: Paying the Spring Tax


    Trantor: 549690339 |


    Qiao Xiaomai looked at him and took a long sigh.


    Alright, it could only be this way at the moment.


    The day passed in a blink, and soon it was the day to pay the Spring Tax.


    Early in the morning, Tong Tiehu rang the big bell of the marketce, summoning everyone in the vige.


    The county town¡¯s bailiffs had arrived, the tables were set up, and they were collecting taxes from each household ording to the poption and farnd recorded in the household register.


    For peasants, the taxation of Daqi wasn¡¯t burdensome. All that was required was to hand over a certain amount of grain and cloth as per the size of their fields, and serve a month ofbor during idle farming seasons. And with that, their tax obligations would be fulfilled.


    Abominations like property tax and head tax from the previous dynasties were totally absent under Daqi.


    However, even though Emperor Yongan had reducedbor services and taxes, for farmers, paying taxes was always an unpleasant task.


    Adding to this, the weather was also hot. Almost everyone had a furrowed brow and a bitter look on their face.


    Qiao Xiaomai sat atop an ox-cart, holding a lotus leaf as a sunshade and looking somewhat bored at the long queue ahead.


    There were too many people in Anping Vige. The queue for paying taxes was long, and as she arrivedte, she had no choice but to wait.


    Moreover, her family owned a lot of farnd that yielded arge amount of grain tax. Even with the ox-cart and donkey cartbined, they wouldn¡¯t be able to transport all of it in one trip. The whole day would be consumed in this activity.


    As the vige chief, Tong Tiehu had to assist the bailiffs in collecting the wheat. His grandson, Tong Sang, was also helping him alongside.


    Weighing the wheat, loading the cart, these simple actions were repeated over and over with no break.


    It was already summer, and the sun overhead was zing. He had been working incessantly, and yet his face didn¡¯t have a trace of sweat.


    His coarse hemp garment was still fresh and refreshing.


    His posture was straight, his movements neat and efficient.


    Among a crowd of farmers, whose appearances became incongruous with their ages due to hardbor, he stood out remarkably.


    Qiao Xiaomai stared at him for a long time, and suddenly, the corner of her mouth curled up into a smile.


    This man, was hers.


    While she was grinning to herself, a familiar figure shed before her eyes. Thin and shriveled, but containing boundless energy, it had left a deep mark of fear in the original host over the past decade.


    It was the Sun Family.


    Dressed in a brand-new ck silk dress, her ck and white speckled hair neatly bundled behind her head, a silver hairpin inserted on top.


    She walked straight through the long queue to the front, standing before Tong Tiehu and a few bailiffs.


    She stood up straight, her chin held high, emanating a striking air of arrogance, ¡°Vige Chief Tong, I¡¯m here to pay the spring tax for our Xiaowu.¡±


    Although Sun Junyan was driven out of the vige, thend was still registered under his name ¨C a total of forty-five acres.


    Tong Tiehu stared nkly at her, ¡°Get in line for tax payment.¡±


    ¡°I live far away, it¡¯s not easy for me toe over. Vige Chief Tong, please do as you see fit and let me go first!¡±


    Sun said, taking out a small piece of silver from her bosom, and directly pped it on the table in front of Tong Tiehu, a boastful smile on her face, ¡°Vige Chief Tong, our Xiaowu now serves under General Cen.¡±


    At these words, Tong Tiehu, who had been eyeing the silver, lifted his eyelids to look at her.


    Sang, who had been loading wheat onto the cart, couldn¡¯t help but turn his head to look at her as well.


    The vigers, who had been somewhat impatient because of her cutting in line, were stunned.


    The few bailiffs also looked somewhat surprised.


    General Cen, Cen Hong?

 Chapter 318: Must be Severely Punished!

    Chapter 318: Must be Severely Punished!


    Trantor: 549690339 |


    Qiao Xiaomai also found this hateful.


    She never expected that things would their course this way.


    As for Zhuang Luhe¡¯s actions, she had always refrained from judging, but now that she has learned of this from Qiao Chang¡¯an, she truly began to sympathize with her.


    Scum! Beast!


    Anyone who forces a woman and wants to sexually assault her, is a beast, all should be torn into pieces and fed to the dogs! @@novelbin@@


    Recalling her own experiences, she gritted her teeth and with her small face tense, without hesitation, she raised her foot and harshly kicked Qiao Chang¡¯an.


    Qiao Chang¡¯an let out a mournful scream and rolled a few times across the ground ¨C he was kicked away.


    His scream woke Qiao Changshun from his stupor.


    Qiao Changshun¡¯s nose soured, his eye sockets were hot, and his chest was congested.


    Was this necessary?


    Was this all necessary!


    He had been honest for half his life, hardworking for half his life, dutiful for half his life, being bullied for half his life, just what sins had hemitted to warrant such hate?


    He might not be a good husband or a good father, he could understand if Zhuang Luhe and Qiao Xiaomai hated him.


    But why should the Sun family hate him?


    He devoted his life to filial piety, even at the expense of his own family.


    And why should Qiao Chang¡¯an hate him?


    It was clearly Qiao Chang¡¯an¡¯s ownziness andck of ambition that made him unattractive to Zhuang Luhe. Why did he me him?


    Was his honesty and integrity also wrong?


    Was helping Zhuang Luhe out and resulting in him falling for him his fault?


    How big of a grudge?


    They were brothers, how big of a grudge was it to harm him like this?


    Breaking his leg wasn¡¯t enough, they even burned the wheat.


    Nearly ten thousand catties of wheat, that¡¯s a mountain of wheat!


    To get revenge on him, they evenmitted such a crazy act?


    Where was their conscience?


    Where was their moral sanity?


    Besides, all these years, they had been eyeing Zhuang Luhe!


    Beast!


    Thinking of Zhuang Luhe¡¯s appearance, and her exit in the early morning, his heated eyes filled with tears. Qiao Changshun¡¯s body trembled as he staggered into the doorway of his home.


    He closed the courtyard door, blocking the various gazes andmotion outside the door.


    Looking at the closed door, Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s anger intensified, took a deep breath, she looked at Qiao Chang¡¯an, her voice cold, ¡°Since you¡¯ve confessed everything, then prepare for your punishment.¡±


    Qiao Chang¡¯an had just been kicked by her, he was in great pain. On hearing her words, he quickly turned to Ma Dongshu, ¡°Mr Ma, you said I could get a reduced sentence!¡±


    ¡°Yes, yes, turning yourself in can indeed reduce your sentence. But the crimes youmitted are serious.¡± Ma Dongshu looked troubled, ¡°In ordance with ¡®Daqi Laws¡¯, your act of intentionally injuring someone not only warrants a sentence but also a fine.¡±


    ¡°Changshun¡¯s leg was broken, this is serious hurt, which may mean a sentence of over ten years. Even if it gets halved, it¡¯s still five years, also, you¡¯ll have to pay a fine.¡±


    ¡°You burnt the wheat, this behavior is appalling, that¡¯s almost ten thousand catties of wheat. Even the emperor himself may not have this audacity, hence you can be sentenced with ten years imprisonment, plus the losses of wheat should bepensated by you.¡±


    ¡°So, even if we reduce the final sentence, you¡¯ll have to serve ten years in prison and pay a fine of forty-five taels of silver.¡±


    Ten years in jail and fine of forty-five taels silver.


    These words pounded on Qiao Chang¡¯an like heavy hammers, each blow knocking him dizzy, reducing him to a helpless state.

 Chapter 319: Who Can Afford to Show Sympathy?

    Chapter 319: Who Can Afford to Show Sympathy?


    Trantor: 549690339 |


    Zhao Shufen was startled, then let out a sharp scream, she lunged at Ma Dongshu, ¡°Impossible, impossible!¡±


    Ma Dongshu looked prosperous, but his body was extremely agile. He deftly avoided Zhao Shufen¡¯s actions and frowned, ¡°Why is it impossible, do you think I¡¯d lie to you?¡±


    Just then, Tong Tiehu and Qiao Dami appeared at the corner of the street, he raised his hand and pointed to Tong Tiehu, ¡°If you don¡¯t believe me, ask your vige chief.¡±


    Zhao Shufen turned her head and looked at Tong Tiehu.


    Tong Tiehu¡¯s face was solemn, extremely serious, she hesitated, remembered Tong Tiehu¡¯s ruthlessly efficient style, her legs gave way and she copsed to the ground.


    Crying loudly. @@novelbin@@


    Her hair was disheveled, her face was covered in blood, her voice was sharp, full of thick despair.


    Just a moment ago, Qiao Chang¡¯an had confessed in front of Qiao Xiaomai because he was desperate.


    Now it was her turn to despair.


    Her husband was going to jail and had to pay dozens of taels of silver as a fine.


    The family was ruined, what was she going to do?


    She had always known about Qiao Chang¡¯an¡¯s lust for Zhuang Luhe, but she never thought Qiao Chang¡¯an would have an affair with Zhuang Luhe, let alone that Qiao Chang¡¯an would break Qiao Changshun¡¯s leg and burn his wheat.


    She didn¡¯t know about any of these.


    Did they hear her? She was innocent!


    The more she thought about it, the more aggrieved and desperate she became, she cried louder and kept pping her thighs, ¡°1 can¡¯t live like this anymore, just let me die, let me die!¡±


    No one tried to console her.


    Her two daughters and son were already scared and stood still on the side.


    At this time, Tong Tiehu approached, Ma Dongshu said, ¡°Brother Tong, Qiao Chang¡¯an confessed. He not only sabotaged Changshun, causing him to break his leg, but also burned Changshun¡¯s wheat.¡±


    ¡°Did he admit it himself?¡± Tong Tiehu asked.


    ¡°He admitted it himself, everyone present heard it.¡±


    ¡°Then send him to the county town and let the county grandee decide.¡± Tong Tiehu raised his hand, pointing at a few onlookers, ¡°Tie up Qiao Chang¡¯an.¡±


    He turned to Qiao Xiaomai, ¡°Xiaomai, is your family¡¯s donkey cart idle?¡±


    ¡°The donkey cart is idle.¡±


    ¡°Ok, tie him to the donkey cart and go to the county town.¡± Tong Tiehu made a sweeping gesture, making the decision.


    For his orders, the vigers of Anping Vige always executed them efficiently, those who should pull the donkey cart pulled the donkey cart, those who should tie up people did so, clearly divided the work.


    ¡°Chief, chief, you can¡¯t do this, if he¡¯s going to jail, my family is done, we¡¯re done!¡± Upon seeing this, Zhao Shufen knelt on the ground, moving step by step towards Tong Tiehu, pleading desperately.


    The desperation and sorrow expressed in her tone and expression could be palpably felt by everyone present.


    Tong Tiehu felt it too, he lowered his head, nced at the disheveled Zhao Shufen and frowned, ¡°Just because your family is ruined, it means we should overlook your husband¡¯s deeds?¡±


    ¡°So by your logic, if anyone¡¯s in a desperate situation, they can start doing evil?¡±


    ¡°Furthermore, your family didn¡¯t steal wheat because you w¡¯ere starving, he burned ten thousand catties of wheat, do you understand? Who can sympathize with such behavior?¡±


    ¡°Zhao Shufen, tell me, tell everyone, who can sympathize with your husband¡¯s behavior?¡±


    ¡°They may not sympathize with him, but what about me? Chief, I have three children, what will happen to me and my children if he¡¯s imprisoned! 1 didn¡¯t know anything about what he did!¡±

 Chapter 350: Sharp Tongued, Too Sharp Tongued

    Chapter 350: Sharp Tongued, Too Sharp Tongued


    Trantor: 549690339


    Tong Sang looked at Qiao Xiaomai, who was approaching with a cold smile on her face, and shook his head in disagreement.


    Sun Family was obviously here to show off and make trouble. He didn¡¯t want Qiao Xiaomai to get entangled with this ¡®stinky shit<sup>1</sup>.


    Qiao Xiaomai rolled her eyes.


    Hm, she didn¡¯t want Tong Sang to get stuck with Sun Family either.


    She was afraid it would dirty Tong Sang¡¯s hands.


    ¡°Sun Family, your Xiaowu has neither rank nor title, what are you running here creating a fuss for?¡± she bluntly asked.


    ¡°I am still recognized by the emperor! I still have the favor of Prince Wei! Not to mention the emperor, just Prince Wei is better than your General Cen, isn¡¯t he?


    I haven¡¯t even asked to cut in line yet, what makes you think you can?¡±


    ¡°Because you have no shame?¡±


    ¡°If you¡¯ve got nothing to do, get out of the way and stop wasting everyone else¡¯s time.¡±


    Those sharp words were like a dagger thrust into the heart of Sun Family.


    Sun¡¯s face suddenly twisted in anger, and her bitterness and hatred rushed up from the bottom of her heart.


    Well, she hadn¡¯t even had time to settle a score with Qiao Xiaomai yet, and now Qiao Xiaomai had taken the initiative to pick a fight.


    Perfect, it saves her the trouble!


    She red at Qiao Xiaomai, sneered coldly, ¡°Oh, can¡¯t wait to stand up for your lover? Using shameful tactics to seduce your uncle, where¡¯s your dignity? Just like your mother who ran away with a strange man, you have no shame!¡± Uncle?


    Qiao Xiaomai couldn¡¯t help butugh, ¡°Sun Family, this is unlike you, you are now rising in rank and status, yet you still won¡¯t let go of Tong Sang, this isn¡¯t normal. By rights, you should be looking for a high-ranking officer for your daughter.¡±


    ¡°If you keep linking your daughter with Tong Sang like this, and if the word gets out to those noble people, your daughter will never have a chance to step up in society.¡±


    ¡°After all, people of nobility care about their reputation, they won¡¯t want a girl with a tarnished reputation.¡±


    At these words, Sun was stunned for a moment.


    She hadn¡¯t had time to think about this yet.


    Sun Junyan had attached himself to Cen Hong during the few days when Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s wheat was burned. He hadn¡¯t been home before, only went back a few days ago, brought back some cloth and food, and also gave her twenty taels of silver.


    Sun Junyan said that before they were weak and helpless, that¡¯s why they were driven out of the vige by Tong Tiehu. Now that he has received the favor of a person of nobility and be sessful, she can stand tall and return to the vige.


    The Spring Tax was about to be paid, and all vigers will gather at the threshing ground then. That¡¯s when she could fully show off.


    Those lowly peasants used to look down upon their mother and son, ignoring them. Now, she and her son were beyond their reach!


    With Sun Junyan¡¯s words, she was delighted. She spent a whole day making a new set of clothes yesterday, just so she could show off today.


    Within such a short one day, she hadn¡¯t even time to adapt to her new identity, let alone consider Qiao Meipan¡¯s marriage.


    She hadn¡¯t even returned to Qiao Family to see it yet!


    Her habitual thinking was that Tong Sang was the best young man in the ten miles and eight viges, so when she saw him, she unconsciously thought of those unpleasant things: being rejected in marriage proposal, plot failed and ended up getting kicked out of the vige.


    These annoying thoughts made her angry, she also thought of a new development: they were rejected before, now her family was rich, it should be Tong Sang¡¯s turn to regret and curry favor with her.


    So, those words just slipped out of her mouth.


    Now hearing what Qiao Xiaomai said, she suddenly felt annoyed.


    Yes indeed!


    No matter how good Tong Sang is, he¡¯s still just a country bumpkin. Now that her Xiaowu had made something of himself and got to know some nobility, her daughter Meipan could marry into a noble family!


    At this thought, she wished she could p herself in the face.


    Being such a motor mouth, she really talks too much.


    At this time, what she should be doing is to make a clean break with Tong Sang!


    She took a deep breath and red at Qiao Xiaomai, ¡°Sharp-tongued and quick-witted, no matter what you said, it won¡¯t change the fact that you shamelessly seduce men!¡±


    ¡°Tong Sang, I¡¯m kindly advising you. Today she can seduce you, tomorrow she can shamelessly seduce someone else. Be careful not to be cheated on just like Changsun was!¡±


    Sitting far away on the oxcart, Qiao Changshun ¡°¡­¡±


    He was so far away, yet Sun¡¯s verbal attack was able to reach him.


    His heart ached.

 Chapter 351: Drag Away, Drag Away

    Chapter 351: Drag Away, Drag Away


    Trantor: 549690339 |


    ¡°Xiaomai, why bother arguing? Just drag her away.¡± Tong Tiehu frowned, ¡°The sun is getting harsher. Everyone is waiting.¡±


    ¡°Understood!¡± Qiao Xiaomai nodded and ground her teeth in secret.


    This shrewish woman keeps mentioning the heartbreaking affairs of Qiao Changshun, not knowing how much effort Xiaomai put into calming Qiao Dami, doesn¡¯t she?


    Damn it!


    Xiaomai rolled up her sleeves, stretched out her hand to grab the shoulder of the Sun Family matriarch, and dragged her toward the end of the line.


    The matriarch of the Sun Family suddenly screamed in rm.


    This isn¡¯t right, this isn¡¯t right at all!


    She came here today to unt and experience the fantastic feeling of superiority.


    But other than shocking everyone with her status at the very beginning, everything that followed felt off!


    Tong Tiehu and these lowly peasants didn¡¯t fawn over her.


    He ordered people to drag her away as simply and neatly as before.


    Tiehu didn¡¯t rush to marry Qiao Meipan either.


    No, this plot is all wrong!


    Her family¡¯s Xiaowu has made something of himself and be capable. How dare these people still treat her like this?


    At that thought, she struggled fiercely, shouting, ¡°Qiao Xiaomai, you dare to touch me now, aren¡¯t you afraid of General Cen Hong¡¯s punishment?!¡±


    ¡°I am removing the trash that obstructs the normal tax collection, why would he punish me for this?¡±


    ¡°Let go of me!¡± Seeing that Xiaomai waspletely fearless, the Sun Family matriarch panicked. She reached out to grab Xiaomai¡¯s hair.


    Seeing this, Tiehu¡¯s figure shed, instantly appearing next to Xiaomai, he grabbed the matriarch¡¯s shoulder and pushed her away.


    His pushing force wasn¡¯t strong, but the matriarch staggered backward several steps and fell onto her bottom.


    Her brand new clothes were stained with dust, and her neatlybed hair was somewhat messy, but she didn¡¯t care about these. She pped her thigh and wailed, ¡°Aiya, there¡¯s no justice! This shameless couple has dared to gang up on me, an old woman. There¡¯s no justice anymore!¡±


    She came here today to show off.


    She also hoped to enjoy some unexperienced privileges.


    But Tong Tiehu did not y along.


    The scolding tone, the serious expression, the swift and decisive handling was as familiar and sharp as ever.


    So familiar that she subconsciously gave the same reaction as before: She threw a tantrum.


    Although it was a subconscious reaction, on second thought, there was no better way to handle this.


    All she could do was bring up Cen Hong, but Xiaomai countered with Yang Ye.


    She knew that a prince outranked a general.


    Overbearing didn¡¯t work, she was unwilling to quietly join the line in disgrace. She had no other choice.


    ¡°Sun Family matriarch, what are you howling about? You¡¯re being unreasonable and you¡¯re still acting like you¡¯re in the right?¡± Xiaomai snorted, immediately looking towards Tiehu, ¡°Don¡¯t mind her. Continue what you were doing. Let her howl and see how long shests.¡±


    When dealing with someone like her, the more you argue, the more loudly she howls.


    If you genuinely ignore her, she¡¯ll quiet down.


    Tiehu also believed this, hearing her words, he nced at her, nodded lightly, turned around and continued what he was doing.


    The Sun Family matriarch was indeed left on her own.


    On the threshing floor where they were drying wheat, there was no shade from trees. It was nearing midday, and the sun was zing. Everyone was feeling drowsy from the heat. Seeing that Xiaomai and Tiehu had settled the matriarch and there was no more fun to watch, they began drooping again, one by one feeling dreary and listless.


    The Sun Family matriarch was truly left alone.


    The Sun Family matriarch closed her gaping mouth.


    Stunned.


    She couldn¡¯t throw a tantrum after all.


    Did she really need to join the line at the back in such a dismal manner?

 Chapter 322: Joy and Sorrow in Different Houses

    Chapter 322: Joy and Sorrow in Different Houses


    Trantor: 549690339 |


    The verdict was easy to handle, and the county magistrate quickly issued themand. Qiao Chang¡¯an was to serve ten years in jail and pay a fifty tael silver fine.


    Qiao Chang¡¯an was directly thrown into a prison cell, while Qiao Xiaomai, Tong Tiehu, and Ma Dongshu hastily returned to Anping Vige.


    By the time they arrived at Anping Vige, night had fallenpletely. Each of them went their separate ways.


    When Qiao Xiaomai arrived home with her donkey cart, Qiao Zhaodi and Qiao Yindi were still kneeling at her front door. Zhao Shufen was also there, but Qiao Xiaobao was nowhere to be seen.


    Moreover, Qiao Changkang and Wu Yinfeng were also present.


    The sisters, Qiao Zhaodi and Qiao Yindi, were disheveled, their clothes ragged, their eyes swollen and red. Seeing Qiao Xiaomai approaching, they bowed their heads in unison. Their pleas were repetitive, begging Xiaomai to show mercy and spare their family from being sold.


    Zhao Shufen also pleaded tearfully, asking about the oue of the verdict.


    The effect of the medicine on Qiao Changkang had worn off. Seeing her finally return from the county town, he immediately showed a joyous expression, ¡°Xiaomai, thank heavens you¡¯re back. How did it go?!¡±


    ¡°He was sentenced to ten years.¡± Qiao Xiaomai looked at him indifferently, then raised her hand to knock on the door, shouting, ¡°Dami, open the door, I¡¯m back!¡±


    As soon as her voice carried, the sounds of Qiao Dami¡¯s footsteps echoed in response, ¡°Coming!¡±


    At the same time, Zhao Shufen¡¯s sobbing grew louder. Her voice was hoarse from crying all afternoon,cking the shrillness it had at noon.


    But the despair in her rasping sobs was chilling, ¡°You damned fool! What am I supposed to do with our family now?!¡±


    In a farming family, men are the absolute worker and pir of the household. Without Qiao Chang¡¯an, who would do all the tough, dirty, and tiring work?


    Plus, without a man in the house, would she be bullied by the vigers?


    What would happen when the children grew up and were ready for marriage?


    How would she deal with all these problems!


    Qiao Xiaomai seemed indifferent to her crying, she looked at Qiao Changkang who was smiling gleefully, ¡°Wait here, I¡¯ll go get the silver bills.¡±


    ¡°No rush, no rush.¡± Qiao Changkang¡¯s voice trembled with excitement, but he maintained his politeness.


    Wu Yinfeng clung to his arm, her face also betraying her joy.


    Six hundred ten taels!


    We¡¯re rich! We¡¯re finally rich!


    They¡¯d be set for life!!!


    Qiao Xiaomai nced at the jubnt couple, then at Zhaodi and Yindi still bowing their heads incessantly. She pursed her lips and led the donkey cart into the courtyard.


    Qiao Dami followed behind her, silent, taking one step at a time.


    She unstrapped the nks from the donkey, tethered it in the shed, and asked, ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡±


    ¡°Big Sister, Dad¡¯s been crying all afternoon!¡±


    On hearing this, Qiao Xiaomai rubbed his little head, ¡°It¡¯s fine, let him cry. Have you eaten?¡±


    ¡°No, I was waiting for you.¡±


    ¡°Then wait a bit longer, I need to get the silver bills from Uncle Four.¡±


    Qiao Dami obediently agreed and stood still in the courtyard.


    Qiao Xiaomai returned to her room and took out six silver bills and ten taels of silver from her storage space. She then left the courtyard and handed the silver bills and coins to Qiao Changkang, ¡°This is the silver bill, it can be cashed at the Money House in the town. This is ten taels of silver.¡±


    ¡°Thank you, Uncle Four, for your kindness.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t mention it.¡± Qiao Changkang shakily epted the silver bills and coins, holding them like they were treasures. Wu Yinfeng, seeing his pitiful state, snatched all six silver bills and held them close to her heart. Pulling him, she started to leave, ¡°Xiaomai, we are going back first.¡± @@novelbin@@


    With Zhao Shufen present, thev had to be discreet about their sudden fortune.

 Chapter 353 - 353 - Unfilial Son, I’ll Kill You!

    Chapter 353: ¨C Unfilial Son, I¡¯ll Kill You!


    Trantor: 549690339 |


    Ugh, her third son, he really did things that orded with her mindset.


    Just unlucky, these matters were actually uncovered by Qiao Xiaomai.


    Bad luck, such bad luck!


    For a moment, numerous thoughts crossed Sun Family¡¯s mind, but they ultimately settled on Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s malevolence. She red at Qiao Xiaomai sitting in the oxcart, her eyes bloodshot, wishing she could pounce on her and bite her.


    Zhu Cuiying understood her intentions; her eyes rolled a bit, then said, ¡°Mother, the reason Xiaomai knew about this is because my fourth brother snitched, it was my fourth brother who¡­¡±


    Before she finished speaking, she was harshly cut off by Wu Yinfeng, ¡°Zhu Cuiying! Shut your damn mouth! If you don¡¯t speak, no one will think you¡¯re mute!¡±


    ¡°Oh, you¡¯re being defiant now, huh? Having several hundred taels of silver has given you quite some confidence, your speech is different now.¡± Zhu Cuiying bellowed back immediately.


    In her heart, she naturally envied Qiao Changkang and his wife.


    600 taels!


    You¡¯d never have to worry about food and drink for the rest of your life!


    These past few days, sheined a lot in the house, asked Qiao Changfu why he didn¡¯t witness Qiao Changkang¡¯s misdeeds.


    Six hundred taels, oh, she so envied and pined for it that she almost wanted to roll on the ground.


    But no matter how much she envied or pined, she could only fantasize about it in her heart.


    However, seeing Sun Family misjudge the situation and me the wrong person, her crafty little mind bubbled up, ¡°Mother, it was my fourth brother who said my third brother hurt Changsun and broke his leg. If my fourth brother hadn¡¯t snitched, then the third brother wouldn¡¯t be in trouble.¡±


    ¡°Poor third brother is now in jail, and Zhaodi and Yindi, his two daughters, had to be sold to Changsun as maids, leaving Shufen and Xiaobao alone. It¡¯s hard, yo!¡±


    ¡°Exactly, all because of my fourth brother, who forsake his sibling for a few hundred taels of silver.¡± Qiao Changfu added sarcastically from the side.


    Qiao Changkang snorted, ¡°Eldest brother, if it were you, I bet you¡¯d run faster. Don¡¯t think I don¡¯t know what you¡¯re thinking, just jealous of the silver I got.¡±


    ¡°Out of consideration for our brotherhood, I¡¯ll give you ten taels for Dazhu¡¯s marriage. You don¡¯t need to repay me.¡±


    At his words, Qiao Changfu and Zhu Cuiying, who were about to counter-argue, choked with red faces.


    Ten taels of silver!


    Don¡¯t need to repay!


    Should they continue to be sarcastic and secretly envious, or ept this ten taels and keep their mouths shut?


    Ah, what a dilemma!


    Seeing the expression on this couple, Qiao Changkang couldn¡¯t help but sneer internally ¨C he knew this would be the case.


    Although giving away ten taels made his heart ache, it was worth it if it could make this couple shut up and stop incessantly nagging in front of Sun Family and Qiao Qinghe.


    Sun Family, for now, he had to count on her.


    Sun Family, who was standing aside and hearing the conversation between these two couples, pondered and understood the intricacies. She was so exasperated she nearly keeled over.


    It turned out that it wasn¡¯t Qiao Xiaomai who was too clever, but it was her own family who had leaked the secret!


    She red viciously at Qiao Changkang, lifting her hand to strike him, ¡°You unfilial son, you ungrateful bastard! I¡¯ll beat you to death!¡±


    Taking away Sun Junyan¡¯snd.


    Hurting her good son, Qiao Chang¡¯an.


    Even after getting the silver, he didn¡¯t know to honor her.


    Three charges ¨C extremely unfilial!


    The more she thought about it, the angrier she became ¨C she simply took off her shoe, grabbing the sole and beating Qiao Changkang viciously with it.


    Seeing this, Wu Yinfeng immediately felt distressed, ¡°Mother, don¡¯t hit him anymore, stop.¡±


    Hearing this, Sun Family promptly turned her fury onto Wu Yinfeng, ¡°It¡¯s all because you instigated it, Changkang was never like this before!¡±


    Then came the rain of shoe soles, driving Wu Yinfeng to flee with her head covered.


    This kind of beating used to be Zhuang Luhe¡¯s exclusive treatment. She never thought it would be her turn today!

 Chapter 324: Want a Hug

    Chapter 324: Want a Hug


    Trantor: 549690339 |


    ¡°I¡¯m going to y the viin, and buy both of the sisters,¡± decided Qiao Xiaomai after some thought.


    ¡°You¡¯ve decided?¡±


    ¡°Yes! Didn¡¯t I mention before that our home was too small? I want to build arge courtyard, like your family¡¯s.¡±


    Her family now has five hundred acres of farnd, as well as three earth slopes covering fifty acres each. They can¡¯t possibly sell all the crops they harvest, so they always have to store some at home.


    So after much thought, she made up her mind to build a big courtyard.


    But she hadn¡¯t decided where to build it yet.


    Tong Sang suggested building it in the vige, but she thought of building it in the fields, like Sun Junyan of the Sun Family.


    She truly thinks so when saying she could get to the fields right after leaving the house, not meant to be mockery towards the Sun Family.


    ¡°So where do you want to build it?¡±


    ¡°In the field. My original fifteen acres of inferiornd are quite close to the vige. I¡¯ll build a big courtyard specifically for storage. Now I¡¯m andlord.¡± Qiao Xiaomai raised an eyebrow.


    ¡°Just for storage? That¡¯s too practical. Didn¡¯t you mention to me before about something like a¡­¡± Tong Sang paused, then continued, ¡°A Provencevender manor, or a French vineyard or something.¡±


    ¡°You said before that you wanted to create your own manor like that. Have you given up on it now?¡±


    ¡°Oh, you actually remembered?¡± Qiao Xiaomaiughed, lovely dimples appearing at the corners of her mouth, ¡°I just mentioned it casually back then.¡±


    ¡°I remember. I remember everything you said.¡±


    At his words, Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s smile trickled upwards, her eyes twinkling, unable to hide the smile gleaming across her face.


    ¡°Let¡¯s build the manor you once described. It will be beautiful.¡± Tong Sang looked at her face, so close he could almost touch. After hesitating for a moment, he carefully raised his arm and put it around her shoulders, letting her lean against him.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry about it. Let¡¯s settle it like this. Build a big manor to realize your dreams and take care of Qiao Zhaodi and Qiao Yindi¡¯s amodation problem.¡±


    ¡°Things will get better.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai leaned against him, stunned.


    Today, during the challenge, she was worried that he might have some thoughts, so she decided to give him a love hug at night.


    But with the mess that happened in the afternoon, shepletely forgot about it.


    Unexpectedly, Tong Sang took the initiative to hug her and let her lean on him.


    Wow.


    She regainsposure, recing his hand with her arms, saying while smiling, ¡°It should be a hug like this.¡± @@novelbin@@


    His entire body stiffened, obviously unused to such a move.


    But this awkwardness gave a skipped beat to her heart.


    The young man in front of her, all his firsts, belonged to her.


    All of his, belong to her.


    At this thought, she couldn¡¯t help but hug him tighter, closing her eyes and deeply inhaling his scent.


    A clean soapberry scent mixed with the warmth of the sun, and a faint hand cream aroma.


    ¡°Why did you change your clothes again?¡± she asked. He was wearing a different outfit from the one he had on during the day.


    ¡°To see you.¡±


    Three simple words, sweet like honey, entered her heart through her ears, Qiao Xiaomai couldn¡¯t help but nestle into his neck.


    What to do.


    She liked him so much.


    With the beauty nestled in his arms, the corners of Tong Sang¡¯s mouth also rose in a smile, and the stiffness from before began to ease.


    He was about to speak, when a sudden warmth and soft sensation in his neck interrupted him. It felt exactly like when the cat he used to keep at home licked him.


    Instantly, his body that had just rxed stiffened again.


    Goosebumps prickled all over him.


    Qiao Xiaomai had just licked him!

 Chapter 325 - 325 He Doesn’t Presume

    Chapter 325 He Doesn¡¯t Presume


    Trantor: 549690339 |


    Not only once, Qiao Xiaomai stretched out his tongue to lick him again, also sending him a sweet coo in the process, ¡°Tong Sang, I am so lucky to have met you.¡±


    Tong Sang ¡°¡­¡±


    The breath she exhaled when she spoke sprayed all into his nape, warm and ticklish.


    His eyes widened, he subconsciously swallowed, held his breath, and softly responded, ¡°Meeting you¡­is also really good.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai chuckled, rubbed her head on his nape, then sat upright and said, ¡°Let¡¯s discuss theyout of the manor.¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡± Tong Sang was still staring, just now she was still yfully licking him, and now she wanted to seriously discuss the construction of the manor? This topic transition is a bit too quick, wasn¡¯t it?


    Yes, it was indeed a quick transition, Qiao Xiaomai got out of his arms and pulled him up, ¡°Let¡¯s go to my room, light amp and discuss carefully.¡±


    Tong Sang stood up unconsciously, and sneaked into the room with her.


    Qiao Xiaomai lit the oilmp, then took out paper and pen from her pocket and started drawing enthusiastically.


    Tong Sang ¡°¡­¡±


    He took a deep breath, struggling to calm his emotions. The girl he loved always teased him casually and then acted as if nothing had happened.


    Was this intentional or idental?


    Staring at Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s soft face under themp, he let out a sigh under his breath.


    Nevermind.


    If she wanted to tease, let her tease.


    She had previously had some unpleasant experiences, and, yes, he must not be presumptuous, he must wait for her to take the initiative.


    He took another deep breath, leaned over and began to discuss in a low voice with her.


    This discussionsted for half the night; by the time he left, the roosters had started crowing.


    Zhao Shufen, Qiao Zhaodi and Qiao Yindi were still kneeling at the door.


    He quietly observed them for a while, then quietly left. @@novelbin@@


    Daylight came quickly.


    The family of three only woke up after the sun had risen high in the sky. Although Qiao Xiaomai had only slept for a little over two hours, she was in high spirits. She made breakfast and then called Qiao Changshun and Qiao Daini to eat.


    At the dinner table, she spoke of her n: to build arge house under those three slopes and in the future, move all three of them there.


    Qiao Changshun didn¡¯t oppose it this time.


    Moving into the farnd can provide more stable and peaceful life for him than moving into the town.


    It¡¯s great to be able to farm as soon as you step out of your house.


    It¡¯s just a bit far from the vige.


    ¡°We have a ox-cart and a donkey-cart, it will only take under ten miles to get there.¡± Qiao Xiaomai casually reassured, then decisively said, ¡°Then I will buy Zhaodi and Yindi, Dami, go find Grandpa Tongter.¡±


    To buy and sell servants, one needs to register with the county¡¯s chief.


    Upon hearing this, Qiao Changshun moved his lips but ended up not saying anything.


    Forget about reputation.


    As Qiao Xiaomai said, their family is now the richest in Anping Vige, and they werendlords.


    As long as you have silver, your reputation won¡¯t be bad.


    After having breakfast, Qiao Xiaomai opened the courtyard door.


    Qiao Zhaodi and Qiao Yindi were still kneeling, Zhao Shufen was nowhere to be seen.


    Seeing here out, the two sisters immediately began to kowtow again.


    Qiao Xiaomai frowned, ¡°Alright, stop kowtowing. I¡¯ve decided to buy the two of you to offset your father¡¯s debt. Go and call Zhao Shufen.¡±


    Qiao Zhaodi and Qiao Yindi looked at each other with surprise.


    Does Qiao Xiaomai want to buy them?


    ¡°What¡¯s the hold up? Go.¡± Qiao Xiaomai urged.


    Upon hearing this, the sisters promptly stood up, supporting each other, and started running towards home.

 Chapter 326: Purchased

    Chapter 326: Purchased


    Trantor: 549690339 |


    Soon, Zhao Shufen arrived, as did Tong Tiehu and Tong Sang.


    Zhao Shufen looked sallow, she just coldly stared at Qiao Xiaomai and asked, ¡°So these two sisters are being used to offset the fifty taels silver Qiao Chang¡¯an was fined, right?¡±


    ¡°Yes,¡± Qiao Xiaomai nodded. @@novelbin@@


    Zhao Shufen sneered, ¡°Qiao Xiaomai, it¡¯s just like you to buy your own cousins to serve as maids.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai remained indifferent, ¡°And what? Don¡¯t you always treat them like maids anyway? Given Your household¡¯s poverty, it¡¯s better for them to serve in my house than in yours. At the very least, I won¡¯t beat them, and I will ensure they are well-fed, sometimes even with meat.¡±


    As she said this, she nced at Qiao Zhaodi and Qiao Yindi, who were standing dumbly to one side.


    Both sisters kept their heads down, their eyes were red and swollen, their faces dirty and indistinguishable.


    She raised an eyebrow and asked, ¡°Zhaodi, Yindi, do you want to not be beaten, not yelled at, and eat meat every meal, or you want to continue working like beasts of burden at your own home?¡±


    Qiao Zhaodi and Qiao Yindi both gripped the corners of their clothes but did not answer.


    ¡°I won¡¯t force you, if you¡¯re not willing, you can say so.¡± Qiao Xiaomai added.


    ¡°Cousin Xiaomai, can you not take the fifty taels of silver?¡± Qiao Zhaodi asked in a trembling voice.


    ¡± What do you think?¡± Qiao Xiaomai retorted without answering.


    ¡°Then, then ocusin Xiaomai, please buy us¡­¡± Qiao Zhaodi¡¯s voice shook even more.


    She knew their situation well. If Qiao Xiaomai insisted on the silver, selling themselves to her would be their best option.


    ¡°Get in the cart. Let¡¯s go to the County Town.¡± Qiao Xiaomai pointed to the cart with a sweep of her hand.


    Good. Though dull, they still knew what was good for them.


    There is hope yet.


    Upon hearing this, the two sisters nced at Zhao Shufen. Her worn-out face was cold, betraying no emotions.


    The sisters lowered their heads simultaneously and got into the cart.


    And so, the group headed towards the County Town.


    At the County Government Office, the Mayor changed the sisters¡¯ civilian status to that of ves in the household registration and had them imprint their handprints on a deed of sale.


    Upon leaving the County Government Office, Zhao Shufen could no longer conceal the cold facade on her face. She looked at Qiao Zhaodi and Qiao Yindi, tears welling up in her red swollen eyes, ¡°Your father has ruined your lives.¡±


    Qiao Zhaodi and Qiao Yindi remained silent, their heads bowed.


    ¡°So you know to feel bad now? Why didn¡¯t you feel bad when you were treating them like beasts before?¡± Qiao Xiaomai scoffed, a look of heavy sarcasm on her face, ¡°let¡¯s go, back to the vige.¡±


    Zhao Shufen¡¯s lips trembled, she simply stood there unmoving.


    ¡°Want to see Qiao Chang¡¯an? Go ahead, and find your way back yourself.¡± Having said this, Qiao Xiaomai motioned everyone to get onto the cart.


    They all got on the cart and headed back to Anping Vige.


    Upon their return to Anping Vige, it happened to be noon. Tong Tiehu rang therge bell again to announce the final oue of the matter to the vigers: Qiao Chang¡¯an was sentenced to ten years and fined fifty taels of silver. However, Qiao Chang¡¯an had no means to pay, so he had sold his daughters Qiao Zhaodi and Qiao Yindi as maids to Qiao Xiaomai.


    Bing a maid to your own cousin made for a bad rumor.


    Especially when Qiao Xiaomai was now the richest person in the vige.


    Therefore, Tong Tiehu stated sternly, ¡°Stop thinking that just because you¡¯re kin you can do whatever you want. Remember, any actions against the ¡®Daqi Laws¡¯ will be punished. ¡®Family¡¯ has no standing in the face of the ¡®Daqi Laws¡¯. The ¡®Daqi Laws¡¯ supersede familial bonds.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t think that what Xiaomai did was underhanded. This was all done above- board and in ordance with the ¡®Daqi Laws¡¯ in the presence of the county governor. If any of you have differing opinions, you¡¯re wee to discuss it with the governor.¡±

 Chapter 357 - 357 He is Disrespectful to the General!

    Chapter 357: He is Disrespectful to the General!


    Trantor: 549690339 |


    The horses were robust and shiny, eliciting envy.


    Therge dogs looked vicious, their fangs intimidating, demanded respect.


    ¡°Salutations, General Cen.¡± Tong Sang, Tong Tiehu, and a few of the bailiffs greeted him.


    Qiao Xiaomai also paid his respects.


    Seeing this, the vigers on site started to sporadically echo, ¡°Salutations, General Cen.¡±


    Cen Hong sat atop his horse, one hand wrapped around the whip, the other grasping the leash of the dog. His sharp gaze fell upon Qiao Xiaomai, lingering for quite some time before he barely nced at the few bailiffs from the corner of his eye and spoke, ¡°I am here to inspect the local tax collection.¡±


    Taxes in Daqi were collected level by level, moving upwards.


    From the vige to the county town, the county town retaining enough for their reserves before transferring to the prefecture city, the prefecture city holding enough before finally sending to the capital city.


    This was a time-consuming andplicated process, often escorted by the military personnel to ensure a smooth transfer.


    However, it was somewhat intriguing that Cen Hong, the General who guards Changyi Prefecture, personally came for this matter.


    Moreover, he specifically came to a small ce like Anping Vige. His purpose was clear for those with sight andmon sense.


    Qiao Xiaomai locked gaze with Cen Hong with indifferent eyes, no emotion on her face.


    Fearless.


    In Bailu Town, as long as she was in the right, Cen Hong would not dare cause trouble.


    As for Sun Junyan, huh.


    Just like these fourrge dogs, he¡¯s merely one of the dogs at Cen Hong¡¯s side. She didn¡¯t even bother sparing him the corner of her eyes.


    Sun Junyan felt the contempt of Qiao Xiaomai. His eyes immediately turned gloomy, and he couldn¡¯t help but tighten his grip on the reins, veins popping on his hands.


    Damn, that insolent girl!


    He would make this wretched woman pay for her ignorance and arrogance today!


    Just then, the Sun matron let out a sharp wail, taking a few quick steps before she fell to her knees before Cen Hong, ¡°Sir, I beg of you to take pity on this poor woman!¡±


    Upon hearing this, Sun Junyan¡¯s gaze fell on his mother. Cen Hong¡¯s sharply moved to her as well, ¡°What¡¯s the matter?!¡±


    The Sun matron discarded the shoes in her hand, daintily wiped at non-existent tears and began her tale of woe.


    She was happily clutching silver to pay the spring tax, because the journey was long, it wasn¡¯t easy for her as an old woman to walk under the scorching sun. She wanted to cut in line and pay early.


    But Tong Tiehu was not considerate of her predicament at all, insisting that she keep in line.


    ¡°So this poor woman mentioned your name, General Cen, hoping to get this done quickly. But Tong, the vige chief,manded his servants to drag me away, even ordered his grandson to hit me.¡±


    ¡°General Cen, this poor woman has suffered great injustice, I have notmitted murder or arson, I merely came to pay my spring tax. How much of everyone else¡¯s time would that have taken? Does the vige chief really need to be so harsh?¡±


    This is a world that values human rtionships, and she had General Cen as a backer. It¡¯s only natural to skip the line on the ount of General Cen¡¯s reputation.


    Therefore, making a fuss about such a trivial matter is a direct disrespect to Cen Hong, provoking him deliberately!


    Cen Hong, after listening to theint of the Sun matron, turned to Tong Tiehu with a stern gaze. He asked in a cold voice, ¡°Vige Chief Tong, is what the Sun matron said true?¡±


    Tong Tiehu respectfully answered, neither too humble nor too proud, ¡°Sir, she just arrived and was already trying to cut in line. All the vigers are waiting, and she has no authority, hence I did not allow her.¡±


    ¡°Then she mentioned your name, Sir. But how could a humble country woman have connections with you? I naturally did not believe her and ordered her to be expelled.¡±

 Chapter 328: The Diligent Sisters

    Chapter 328: The Diligent Sisters


    Trantor: 549690339 |


    After a joyful night, the next day, the Qiao Family had breakfast, and Qiao Changshun left with the workers to the fields.


    After feeling unwell for two days, he had returned to normal. @@novelbin@@


    Qiao Xiaomai and Qiao Dami were ying in the courtyard when Qiao Zhaodi and Qiao Yindi came over.


    Without any formalities, Qiao Xiaomai immediately assigned them tasks. Their small yard required a lot of work such as washing clothes, sweeping, feeding chickens, watering the vegetable patch, cleaning the chicken coop, collecting dried firewood, and cutting grass, and so on.


    Previously, these tasks were all done by Qiao Xiaomai and Qiao Dami, but now they were relieved since Qiao Zhaodi and Qiao Yindi were here to help.


    The sisters, Qiao Zhaodi and Qiao Yindi, were also responsible for these chores back at their home. Once Qiao Xiaomai assigned the tasks, they immediately got to work: one washed clothes while the other swept, one watered the nts while the other fed the chickens. After working for a while, they split tasks again: one went up the mountain to fetch firewood, the other went to cut grass. Their diligence was impressive.


    Qiao Xiaomai was also extremely satisfied and gave each sister a piece of green bean cake, telling them, ¡°Work with peace of mind. Life in the vige is the same as before. However, in the future, no one will beat or scold you. You will have good food and clothes.¡±


    Hearing this, both Qiao Zhaodi and Qiao Yindi showed anxious smiles and whispered their thank yous.


    ¡°In a couple of days, I¡¯ll go to the town to buy some cloth. You can both make some new clothes,¡± Xiaomai added.


    ¡°There¡¯s no need,¡± Qiao Zhaodi quickly refused.


    ¡°Are the clothes you¡¯re wearing right now altered from your mother¡¯s?¡± Qiao Xiaomai asked, noting the state of their clothes.


    They were even worse than what the previous Qiao Xiaomai wore, full of patches, resembling beggars¡¯ clothing.


    Despite the poverty in the past, Zhuang Luhe treated everyone equally, unlike Zhao Shufen who, along with Qiao Chang¡¯an, focused all of their attention on Qiao Xiaobao. As long as the sisters had enough to eat and clothing to cover their bodies, they considered their job done.


    Just like yesterday morning, despite such a big incident, Zhao Shufen went home to make breakfast for Qiao Xiaobao.


    Favoritism to such an extent was rare.


    After hearing Xiaomai¡¯s words, Qiao Zhaodi and Qiao Yindi self-consciously gripped their clothes tighter, their heads bowing down.


    ¡°And your shoes.¡± Qiao Xiaomai continued, following their gaze.


    The sisters were wearing straw sandals.


    Even the previous Qiao Xiaomai wasn¡¯t that underprivileged.


    ¡°Alright, go work. Don¡¯t worry about food and clothes. Just do your jobs honestly,¡± Qiao Xiaomai said.


    ¡°We¡¯ll go then.¡± Qiao Zhaodi tightened her grip on her clothes, gave a small nod to Qiao Xiaomai, and then left the courtyard with Qiao Yindi.


    Upon the sisters¡¯ departure, Qiao Xiaomai tsked, poking Qiao Dami¡¯s cheeks, ¡°Let¡¯s go find old Ma Dongshu.¡±


    The day before yesterday, Ma Dongshu had given her a Truth Elixir, saving her a lot of effort.


    She needed to express her gratitude.


    The siblings locked the courtyard gate and headed towards the Tong Family¡¯s new house.


    Ma Dongshu wasn¡¯t home as he had gone up the mountain. Qiao Xiaomai left a message with his servant to invite him over for lunch at her house the next day.


    On their way back from the Tong family¡¯s house, the siblings felt lighter without any work responsibilities. Qiao Dami was jumping around, his face sporting a constant smile.


    Although he was diligent, like all kids, he loved to y.


    As the conditions at home continued to improve, his childlike nature gradually returned.


    A luxurious carriage parked outside the Qiao Family¡¯s door. A dignified man was sitting inside. It was Yang Wang.


    After much deliberation and considering the information he had gathered so far, he had decided to visit personally..

 Chapter 329: The Common Girl Dare Not Ascend to Heaven

    Chapter 329: The Common Girl Dare Not Ascend to Heaven


    Trantor: 549690339 |


    Upon seeing Yang Wang, the joy on Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s face instantly disappeared.


    She walked over slowly, leading Qiao Dami by the hand, bowing as she approached, ¡°Commoner greets Your Highness.¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s no need for formalities.¡± Yang Wang waved dismissively, always maintaining a friendly smile on his taut face.


    The smile made Qiao Xiaomai put up her guard, sending her defenses soaring. ¡°May I know the purpose of Your Highness¡¯s visit to our humble abode?¡± Qiao Xiaomai asked.


    ¡°What, you¡¯re going to keep me standing at the door, not inviting me in?¡± Yang Wang retorted instead of answering, nodding towards the tightly closed door.


    Qiao Xiaomai forced a sincere-looking smile on her face, ¡°Forgive me for my negligence, Your Highness.¡±


    She quickly went to open the door.


    Once inside, she apologized with a face full of regret, ¡°Your Highness, would you like some tea? However, I would have to boil the water.¡±


    ¡°No need, let¡¯s sit and talk.¡± Yang Wang pointed towards a small table under a tree and told the guard following him, ¡°Bring down the things from the carriage.¡±


    The guard obeyed, and started unloading items from the carriage outside the gate.


    There were rolls of colored silk, six of them.


    Six boxed gifts, each of a different color.


    ¡°Your Highness, what are these¡­¡± Qiao Xiaomai asked, looking puzzled at Yang Wang.


    Yang Wang kept his genial smile, exining, ¡°Since it is my first visit, it is only right to bring gifts.¡±


    ¡°These gifts are too valuable for me, I can¡¯t ept them,¡± Qiao Xiaomai hurriedly retorted.


    ¡°What¡¯s there to worry about? Don¡¯t belittle yourself.¡± Yang Wang waved his hand, pointing to the stool opposite the small table, ¡°Sit down, I have something to discuss with you.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Xiaomai sat down, taking Dami with her.


    Yang Wang nced over Qiao Dami, saying with a smile, ¡°Anping Vige indeed has good Feng Shui. The vigers don¡¯t look like country folk at all.¡± Qiao Xiaomai remained silent.


    With no desire to engage in conversation.


    As if the current Emperor was not, himself, from the countryside.


    ¡°However, even though Anping Vige has good Feng Shui, it still pales inparison to the Capital City,¡± Yang Wang continued, his sharp gaze fixed on Qiao Xiaomai as if a predator eyeing its prey, salivating with desire.


    His stare made Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s skin crawl, but she tried to hide her difort, agreeing, ¡°Your Highness speaks the truth.¡±


    ¡°If you think that I¡¯m right, then have you considered moving to the Capital City.¡±


    ¡°No.¡± Qiao Xiaomai shook her head immediately without hesitation, ¡°I was born and raised here, I¡¯m used to the country life. I¡¯m afraid I might fall ill in the city.¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s always a period of adjustment. Falling ill is normal, but once you endure it, it¡¯s like stepping into heaven.¡± Yang Wang said, his tone suggestive.


    Concerned that Qiao Xiaomai might not understand, he exined, ¡°Stepping into heaven doesn¡¯t mean serving as a kitchen maid, nor serving as a ve, it means a huge transformation to another identity.¡±


    On hearing this, Qiao Xiaomai, blinked her clear, bright, peach blossom eyes, straightforwardly stating, ¡°Your Highness, I¡¯m timid and afraid of heights. I¡¯m afraid of falling, so I prefer to keep my feet on the ground.¡±


    At her words, Yang Wang chuckled, but his eyescked humor, ¡°So, you¡¯re rejecting me?¡± @@novelbin@@


    ¡°Please forgive me, Your Highness. I¡¯m just a simple vige girl, like a weed by the roadside. Even if it gets carried by the wind, it still can¡¯t reach the sky. I know my limits,¡± Qiao Xiaomai replied calmly but firmly.


    ¡°Do you have someone you like?¡± Yang Wang continued to ask with a smile, ¡°That young man who was with you the other day, Tong Sang?¡±


    ¡°No, I was born and raised here and don¡¯t want to leave.¡±


    ¡°But I genuinely admire you.¡± Yang Wang dropped his friendly facade and spoke with sincerity.

 Chapter 330: The position I promised is that of the concubine

    Chapter 330: The position I promised is that of the concubine


    Trantor: 549690339


    Admiration?


    Qiao Xiaomai rolled her eyes inwardly, she didn¡¯t appreciate this admiration at all.


    ¡°Your Highness, I, as a citizen, deeply appreciate your affection. However, this humble girl has no intention of traveling to the Capital City, and I hope you don¡¯t take it personally,¡± she respectfully replied.


    ¡°Huh,¡± Yang Wang said, standing. ¡°Don¡¯t rush to reject me just yet. I wille again in three days.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s rejection of Yang Ye had been expected. Thus, he didn¡¯t grow too upset over her fiery attitude.


    However, since he hade this far, he felt it was better to rify particrs.


    ¡°What I¡¯m offering is to make you a consort,¡± he said.


    Qiao Xiaomai was¡­


    She also stood up, looking at the arrogance in Yang Wang¡¯s eyes. She stifled a sigh and continued to reject him, ¡°Regardless of how long I consider it, my answer will remain the same. I hope you don¡¯t take it personally.¡±


    Upon hearing her words, Yang Wang arched an eyebrow, asking, ¡°Do you know what being a consort means?¡±


    ¡°It implies that this humble girl has ascended to the heavens.¡± @@novelbin@@


    Yang Wang watched her, ¡°Can you imagine what that entails?¡±


    ¡°Eating well, dressing well, living well, not needing to work, and always having someone to serve me.¡±


    Yang Wangughed lightly, ¡°All of that can be your reality, as long as you agree.¡±


    ¡°This humble girl has already made those things a reality.¡±


    Yang Wang chuckled again, a trace of mockery danced in his eyes, ¡°With those two nieces of yours?¡±


    ¡°Does Your Highness know about that?¡±


    ¡°Of course. As you are the one to whom I have offered the position of consort, I naturally need to look into your affairs,¡± Yang Wang replied.


    ¡°I¡¯ve caused Your Highness some trouble.¡±


    Yang Wang gazed at her. His eyes lingered on her petite face for a moment, and he then reached out, pointed at her, andughed, ¡°Three dayster, I wille again.¡±


    After leaving these words, he turned and left the courtyard.


    Qiao Xiaomai pulled Qiao Dami along and went after him, politely saying,


    ¡°Have a safe journey, Your Highness.¡±


    With Emperor Yongan and the ¡°Daqi Law¡±, she had to uphold thew and show courtesy so Yang Wang wouldn¡¯t find any fault with her.


    Watching Yang Wang¡¯s carriage depart, she led Qiao Dami back home.


    ¡°Sister, what does consort mean?¡± Qiao Dami asked, looking up.


    Although Yang Wang wasughing before, his appearance was quite ferocious, so he didn¡¯t dare to make a peep.


    Now that he was gone, he hurriedly asked his question.


    ¡°A consort is a prince¡¯s concubine, who is kept in the backyard, she has to abide by proper behavior, like a bird in a cage. Even though everything is fed by others, there is absolutely no freedom.¡±


    ¡°Wow, that¡¯s so pitiful!¡±


    ¡°Yes, it is really pitiful,¡± Qiao Xiaomai said, smiling, as she rubbed his little head.


    Only a self-righteous freak like Yang Wang would think the position of a consort was impressive.


    She was asking if she could imagine the treatment of a consort. Heck no!


    In her previous life, she had lived the life of a queen!


    The people in this dimension, they¡¯re all peasantspared to her!


    Humph, it¡¯s just a consort. Whatever a consort could have, she could earn it quickly with her own hands!


    ¡°Then what about these things?¡± Qiao Dami pointed at the items Yang Wang had brought.


    ¡°Leave them be.¡± They certainly couldn¡¯t keep his gifts, lest Yang Wang think she was ying hard to get.


    She would need to find Yang Ye about this. Her status as amoner was far too weak, she would need someone who could stand up to Yang Wang.


    However, it was almost noon and Qiao Changshun would be back from the fields soon. She would have to wait until the afternoon to go.


    After reminding Qiao Dami not to tell Qiao Changshun about this just yet, she moved the items into her room. Then she went to the garden to pick some vegetables and began to prepare lunch.


    After lunch, when Qiao Changshun went back to the fields, she asked Qiao Dami to follow him. Then, she gave Qiao Zhaodi and Qiao Yindi sisters some tasks, locked the courtyard gate, and nned to go to the town.


    With all the carts, both cattle and donkey, being used, she had no choice but to walk.


    But just as she reached the vige, she saw a parade of vehicles approaching from afar.


    Yes, there were cattle carts, donkey carts, and horse carts, more than twenty total.


    A horrendous premonition sprouted in her heart.

 Chapter 361: I’m Here to Cure Your Rabies

    Chapter 361: I¡¯m Here to Cure Your Rabies


    Trantor: 549690339 |


    ¡°Stay right there and don¡¯t move, I¡¯m going to get Doctor Wu!¡± Tong Sang stomped his foot in frustration. In the next moment, he had disappeared.


    At this time, Yang Ye, who had been racing on a steed, arrived.


    Following behind him were Yang Wang and more than ten guards.


    Yang Ye jumped down from his horse and rushed over to Qiao Xiaomai to examine the wound on her arm, ¡°How is it?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s fine, Brother San is getting Doctor Wu. However, I suspect that General Cen¡¯s whip may contain the Rabies Virus. I would like to ask for your help.¡± Qiao Xiaomai squinted her peach blossom eyes and looked over at Cen Hongping, whose face had darkened after being pped by Tong Sang.


    Cen Hongping snorted, ¡°Indeed, before I arrived at the threshing ground, I used my whip to tease these dogs. It¡¯s true that it got their saliva on it.¡±


    Upon hearing this, the formerly calm Qiao Xiaomai¡¯splexion changed instantly.


    Cen Hongping hadn¡¯t been at the threshing ground long. If the whip really was infected with the Rabies Virus, then it¡¯s possible the virus was still alive in this short span of time.


    Would she possibly get infected under such circumstances?!


    Yang Ye¡¯s face changed as well, ¡°Cen Hongping, you¡¯ve gone too far!¡±


    As he addressed Yang Ye, Cen Hongping responded with dignity, ¡°Your Highness, this Tong Sang is armed with a sharp sword and is highly skilled in martial arts. His presence in this remote ce is indeed suspicious. Then there¡¯s Qiao Xiaomai, a simple vige girl with Divine Power, this is extremely odd.¡±


    ¡°Both of them have obviously resisted arrest, that¡¯s why I believe it¡¯s necessary to bring them back to the County Government Office for interrogation using unconventional methods.¡±


    ¡°Nonsense! Their situation is clear to me, and I did not find them suspicious. As a protector of the country, where do you get off being so overly cautious?!¡± Yang Ye was furious.


    ¡°Resisting arrest? From my perspective, it¡¯s you who took the initiative to raise your whip towards Miss Qiao! She stayed motionless, in a ce she couldn¡¯t escape! You attacked innocent civilians and brought military dogs with the Rabies Virus out of the Military Camp. I see that you are clearly retaliating!¡±


    ¡°As a national guard, considering your present conduct, who are you protecting?! You are protecting yourself! You¡¯re using the banner of maintaining peace to protect your own private interests! When I go back, I will report to the emperor, wait and see!¡±


    ¡°Hey hey, Fourth Brother, don¡¯t get angry yet.¡± Seeing the unprecedented cold sternness on Yang Ye¡¯s handsome face, Yang Wang quickly stepped in to mediate, ¡°The immediate concern is Miss Qiao¡¯s injury.¡±


    ¡°Rabies, I¡¯ve read medical texts about this disease, and I know how to treat it.¡± Yang Wang said as he looked at Cen Hongping. His face also turned stern, taking on the majestic aura he usually had when dealing with officials, ¡°Which dog did you tease with your whip?¡±


    ¡°Your Highness, only dog number twenty-eight¡¯s saliva is on this whip.¡± Cen Hongping pointed to the big ck dog that had been nailed to the ground by Tong Sang¡¯s sword.


    ¡°Cut open this dog¡¯s head and apply the brain to Miss Qiao¡¯s wound.¡± Yang Wang ordered.


    Seeing Cen Hongping just standing there, Yang Wang¡¯s face darkened, ¡°What, General Cen, do you think you¡¯re too good to follow my orders?¡±


    ¡°No, Your Highness, I¡¯ll do as youmand.¡± Cen Hongping apologized, he pulled a dagger from his waist and walked towards therge ck dog named Twenty-eight.


    ¡°Third Brother, how did you know of this cure?¡± Yang Ye looked at Yang Wang with suspicion.


    ¡°You know I love reading misceneous books, I learned it from a medical book.¡± Yang Wang waved his hand, his face quickly recovering its lightness, ¡°Alt, right, we also need someone to suck out the blood from the wound, then cauterize it to kill the virus.¡±

 Chapter 332: Are You Humiliating Her?

    Chapter 332: 332: Are You Humiliating Her?<div>


    Trantor: 549690339 |


    Hu Tian watched as Qiao Xiaomai disappeared into the distance, feeling puzzled.


    After a moment¡¯s hesitation, he turned his horse around and chased after her.<div>


    ¡°Miss Qiao, get on the horse, I¡¯ll take you to town.¡±


    ¡°No need.¡± Qiao Xiaomai tly refused.


    Hu Tian carefully observed her expression, thought for a moment, then dismounted and walked side by side with her.


    He signaled for his caravan to follow, and while leading his horse, he engaged in conversation with Qiao Xiaomai, ¡°Miss Qiao, the day you left, the head of the valley held a small banquet to celebrate the good wheat harvest. The dishes you prepared were emptied pretty quickly.¡±


    ¡°Especially that Buddha Jumps Over the Wall dish, such a big pot, it simply wasn¡¯t enough to go around.¡±


    ¡°The two princes, who are used to eating exotic delicacies, weren¡¯t amazed by abalone or shark fin, but when such ingredientsnded in your hands, it was quite remarkable. I wonder what other dishes you can prepare, Miss Qiao.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai nced at him andughed, ¡°Sir Hu, I usually cook homestyle dishes. As for that Buddha Jumps Over the Wall, it was a simple stew. You were there that day, you saw me just throw everything into one pot, no special techniques involved.¡±


    ¡°The dishes made by Zuixian Building and Jiwei Residence couldn¡¯t match the vor of yours, even after buying your recipe.¡± Hu Tian added.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t hide anything.¡±


    ¡°Then it must be that those head chefs are not as skilled as you.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai justughed and didn¡¯t continue the conversation.@@novelbin@@<div>


    Seeing this, Hu Tian started to inquire again. Although Qiao Xiaomai is just a vige girl, she¡¯s a vige girl who can earn a lot of money, and the recipes shees up with have won the approval of both Emperor Yong¡¯an and the Retired Emperor.


    She can make money.


    She can win favor in front of Emperor Yong¡¯an.


    And she is quite attractive, with a fiery spirit, fun to y with.


    So, the princes evaluated herprehensively and finally decided to offer her the position of a concubine.


    Unexpectedly, Qiao Xiaomai didn¡¯t fall for it, she rejected the offer!


    No hint of interest whatsoever, none at all.


    This is troublesome.


    Money doesn¡¯t attract her.


    Power doesn¡¯t seem to interest her either.


    Money and power, the two most precious things in the world can¡¯t move her. A little vige girl, can¡¯t be this hard to deal with, right?<div>


    After some contemtion, they quickly arrived at the town.


    Qiao Xiaomai went to see Yang Ye, and Hu Tian went to find Yang Wang.


    ¡°Oh, a rare visitor.¡± Seeing Qiao Xiaomai, Yang Ye warmly weed her to sit and served her some tea.


    Qiao Xiaomai sat down and without any small talk said directly, ¡°My Lord, the contestst time, I won.¡±


    ¡°I remember.¡± Yang Ye nodded, ¡°But on the day of the contest, I had an urgent matter to attend to, so I took a trip to the Prefecture City. I just got back, didn¡¯t even have time for a sip of tea.¡±


    ¡°Then my lord should rest first.¡±


    ¡°No, no, I¡¯m fine. Let¡¯s talk while I rest.¡± Yang Ye leaned back in his chair, one hand holding a tea bowl, and said, ¡°That Hot Spring Vi is worth about ten thousand taels of silver. We¡¯ll split it evenly between us, and I¡¯ll give you five thousand taels in silver notes, sound good?¡±


    ¡°Fine. But I have a favor to ask of my lord. I hope to use the five thousand taels of silver as a token of my appreciation.¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡± Yang Ye raised an eyebrow and startedughing, his dark and handsome eyes filled with interest, ¡°What is it?¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai then told him about Yang Wang¡¯s visit and the gifts he had brought.


    After hearing everything, a cold and mocking expression appeared on YangYe¡¯s handsome face, ¡°I¡¯m sorry you had to see that.¡±<div>


    Clearly, his and Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s views on Yang Wang¡¯s actions were the same: it¡¯s ridiculous.


    If Qiao Xiaomai really wanted to be a princess consort, she would have flirted with him long ago, since he was still unmarried, and the position of chief wife was still vacant.


    Moreover, Qiao Xiaomai is now a little fortune goddess. Those little gifts are simply nothing to her, it¡¯s embarrassing.


    With such a bother for a brother, Ah, there¡¯s nothing he can do!

 Chapter 333: 333: Has the Tong Family Been Exposed?

    Chapter 333: 333: Has the Tong Family Been Exposed?<div>


    Trantor: 549690339 |


    ¡°This humble woman dares notugh, I only hope that the Prince can help this humble woman push this matter aside,¡± murmured Qiao Xiaomai with a tightened face.


    ¡°No problem, no problem.¡± Yang Ye nodded in agreement.<div>


    Speaking frankly, the root of this issuey with him.


    If he hadn¡¯t called Ma Dongshu and consequently Cen Hong, none of this trouble would be present now.


    ¡°Thankyou, Prince,¡± Qiao Xiaomai appeased him with an artificial smile.


    Yang Yefeng eyed her skeptically, clicking his tongue slightly.


    Qiao Xiaomai returned his gaze, her eyes questioning.


    Yang Ye leisurely raised his hand to pour another cup of tea, he sighed faintly, ¡°If I were to offer you the position of chief wife, would you ept?¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai; ¡°¡­Prince, please don¡¯t make fun of this humble woman.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not jesting ¨C consider my offer seriously,¡± Yang Ye held up his teacup, not drinking, only lightly shaking it in his hand, a serious look glinting on his handsome face.


    Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s face tightened again, ¡°Prince, thank you for your love.


    However, this humble country girl probably doesn¡¯t qualify to be your chief wife.¡±


    ¡°Only a wife, there¡¯s no need to worry about qualifications. I¡¯m the type of person who likes freedom, and my wife can also be free to do whatever she likes,¡± Yang Ye raised an eyebrow.<div>


    ¡°This humble woman was born to live a busy life. She can¡¯t enjoy easy fortunes,¡± replied Xiaomai.


    Clicking his tongue, Yang Ye sipped from his teacup, his lips stained with water, shiny and beautiful, ¡°Excuses, all are excuses.¡±


    ¡°You, you¡¯re fond of Tong Sang, aren¡¯t you?¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai stayed silent, her clear eyes met Yang Ye¡¯s gaze, without any evasion.


    ¡°You won¡¯t admit it?¡± Yang Ye ced his teacup on the table, casually picking up a mulberry. His fair slender fingers paired with the dark purple mulberry; quite a delightful sight.


    Qiao Xiaomai remained mute.


    Yang Ye threw the mulberry into his mouth, pulling up a corner of his lips to smile, ¡°You, you¡¯re stubborn and headstrong. Once you set your mind on something, it¡¯s hard for others to change your perspective.¡±


    ¡°However, I have to remind you. In search of a good mate, you should open your eyes wide and see all aspects of that person. Don¡¯t let yourself be fooled and pay with your whole life because of a moment of blindness.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai; ¡°¡­¡±


    Her eyshes didn¡¯t even flutter, but the words stirred a storm in her heart.


    What did Yang Ye mean by this?<div>


    Did he already uncover the secret of the Tong Family and was warning her out of fear of her being deceived?


    After thinking for a while, she spoke, ¡°This humble woman does not need to use her eyes, I can feel it with my heart.¡±


    ¡°Huh, how naive,¡± Yang Ye scoffed on hearing this, ¡°Young maidens like you who have not seen the world are the easiest to fool. A few sweet words could throw you into an utterly confused state.¡±@@novelbin@@


    Qiao Xiaomai; ¡°¡­¡±


    Dear Prince, thank you. But, Tong Sang has truly not hidden anything from me. I already know his background.


    Concluding this in her heart, a smile spread on her face, ¡°Thank you for your concern, Prince.¡±


    She really meant this gratitude.


    Yet, for fear of Tong Sang getting hurt, she was not able to bring herself to smile brilliantly, she only maintained a calm facade.


    Seeing this, Yang Ye thought she was obstinate and unwilling to realize the truth.


    Sighing again, Yang Ye offered, ¡°Fine, I promise you today, as long as you stay true, no matter what happens in the future, I will ensure your safety.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai; ¡°¡­¡±<div>


    She should be overjoyed by this, but she felt like crying instead.


    Good grief! Had Yang Ye really set his sights on the Tong Family?

 Chapter 364: Good Dogs, One After Another

    Chapter 364: Good Dogs, One After Another


    Trantor: 549690339 |


    ¡°I am watching over her.¡±


    As soon as they heard this, everyone present changed their expressions.


    Qiao Xiaomai silently swore inside, her gaze instinctively turning to Tong Sang.


    Tong Sang clenched his fists, his thin lips pressed into a straight line, and his dark pupils were deeply turbulent.


    An innocent look appeared on her face.


    This really had nothing to do with her.


    Tong Sang eyed her deeply before shifting his gaze to Yang Ye.


    Yang Ye¡¯s handsome face was somber as he pulled out a clean handkerchief from his bosom and walked over to Cen Hong to collect the cloth in his hand.


    Cen Hong, afraid of contracting the Rabies Virus, was also using a handkerchief to hold the dog¡¯s brain.


    ¡°General Cen, wait to be reprimanded.¡± Yang Ye sneered as he took the brain, ¡°This matter is not over.¡±


    Cen Hong still had a righteous look on his face, ¡°I was also thinking of Daqi¡¯s best interests.¡±


    ¡°You should tell my father that.¡± Yang Ye handed the handkerchief to Qiao Xiaomai, ¡°Let¡¯s go to your house for treatment. I¡¯ll leave guards here to watch over your father and Dami.¡±


    He then turned to the few responsible for tax collection, ¡°Registrate Miss Qiao¡¯s tax first.¡±


    The officials hurriedly nodded and bowed in agreement.


    Qiao Xiaomai took the dog¡¯s brain and turned to Qiao Changshun, ¡°Dad, I¡¯ll go back first.¡±


    Qiao Changshun, still suffering from immense shock, hurriedly nodded with tears in his eyes, ¡°Go first, go first!¡±


    The situation earlier had scared him to tears.


    Qiao Xiaomai consoled, ¡°I¡¯m fine, stop crying.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry about me, hurry home for treatment.¡± Qiao Changshun said.


    Qiao Xiaomai nodded at him, then looked at Yang Ye, ¡°Your Highness, please lead the way.¡±


    Yang Ye stepped forward, leading the way.


    After walking a few steps, he paused and turned towards Tong Sang, ¡°By the way, Tong Sang, youe too.¡±


    Tong Sang responded affirmatively.


    Yang Wang was stupefied, he hurriedly followed, ¡°Miss Qiao, since I¡¯ve taught you the prescription, it¡¯s best if I¡¯m the one to teach you how to create it.¡±


    Life-saving grace!


    Since he provided the prescription, how could he be absent at this critical moment!


    ¡°Alt, third brother, you should go hunting, this matter has nothing to do with you, there¡¯s no need for you to get involved.¡± Yang Ye raised his arm to block him.


    ¡°I¡¯m concerned about Miss Qiao, I must see for myself that she¡¯s okay to feel at ease.¡± Yang Wang insisted with determination.


    ¡°Miss Qiao, you and Tong Sang go back for treatment, I have matters to attend to.¡± Yang Ye straightforwardly turned around, his face expressionless as he looked at Yang Wang, ¡°Third brother, did you know about General Cen¡¯s actions today?¡±


    ¡°What do you mean by that?¡± Yang Wang was startled, then his face quickly darkened.


    ¡°It means nothing.¡± Yang Ye smiled, noticing that Qiao Changshun was still sitting weakly on the ground, and directed his guards, ¡°Help Qiao Changshun up.¡±


    Upon catching sight of Qiao Xiaomai and Tong Sang standing motionless out of his peripheral vision, he frowned and urged, ¡°What are the two of you doing standing there? Go quickly.¡±


    At hismand, Tong Sang immediately stepped forward, circling his arm around Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s waist and with a nudge of his light footwork, they vanished in an instant.


    ¡°Chief Tong,e tell me, what exactly happened?¡± Yang Ye retracted his gaze, looking at Tong Tiehu.


    His instinct told him, today¡¯s events were not as simple as they appeared.


    He had been secretly keeping tabs on Yang Wang, who surprisingly suggested going to Rooster Mountain for a hunt around noon.


    A trivial ce like Rooster Mountain could hardly boast any game, especially at this time.


    It was too unusual.


    So, he too brought his bow and arrow and followed.


    Luckily he did.


    Otherwise, Qiao Xiaomai could have gotten bitten by the dog.


    So many dogs had arrived today, one after another, some even wearing human skins, he needed to figure out what was going on.

 Chapter 335 - 335 I’m Watching Over Her

    Chapter 335: I¡¯m Watching Over Her


    Trantor: 549690339 |


    After the Buddha Jumps Over the Wall was done, Yang Ye arranged for someone to send Qiao Xiaoinai home, and he went to find Yang Wang.


    As two princes, both of them lived in the Academy, very close to each other.


    ¡°Third Brother, this thousand tael silver note is from Miss Qiao for you. She epted the cloth and gifts you sent to her house,¡± Yang Ye said cheerfully as he took out ten silver notes from his chest and ced them on the table.


    Yang Wang turned ck in the face.


    What¡¯s the meaning of this?


    What¡¯s the meaning of this?! @@novelbin@@


    The things he brought only cost less than three hundred taels, what does it mean for Qiao Xiaomai to give him a thousand taels?!


    ¡°However, Miss Qiao only epted the things you sent before, but she couldn¡¯t ept the ones from the convoy,¡± said Yang Ye again.


    Yang Wang let out a heavy snort and said, ¡°Take this silver note away.¡±


    ¡°That wouldn¡¯t do, Miss Qiao is always straightforward, she has no kinship or friendship with you, so she couldn¡¯t ept your things for free,¡± Yang Ye smiled as he opened his fan and narrated the story with some reservations while leisurely fanning himself.


    ording to what was said before, he should have given Qiao Xiaomai five thousand taels of silver.


    But Qiao Xiaomai asked him to help fend off Yang Wang, she didn¡¯t im this five thousand tael reward for herbour.


    The perpetrator of the Shao Mai crime was found, he needed to pay Qiao Xiaomai five hundred taels.


    However, Qiao Xiaomai asked him to give these thousand taels to Yang Wang, so these five hundred taels were offset. In the end, it was Qiao Xiaomai who gave him five hundred taels.


    Look, this is how Qiao Xiaomai handles things, certain and clear, whatever is agreed on is finalised.


    However, Yang Wang¡¯s trouble was his own making, and he should have solved it himself. As things turned out, Qiao Xiaomai won him a Hot Spring Vi, and he also got to taste the Buddha Jumps Over the Wall dish.


    Oh, this Qiao Xiaomai is really¡­


    Oh well, oh well, he did a good job blocking Yang Wang and safeguarding her life, dutifully assuming his role as a friend.


    Hearing Yang Ye¡¯s ount, Yang Wang¡¯s face darkened even more.


    With Qiao Xiaomai so rich and generous, and having such a good rtionship with Yang Ye, his actions today seemed even more idiotic!


    ¡°Do you have designs on Qiao Xiaomai?¡± he asked with a gloomy face.


    ¡°No, no, no.¡± Yang Ye immediately shook his head, ¡°Qiao Xiaomai is too fierce and spicy for me, I can¡¯t handle it, I prefer softer women.¡±


    If you agree with the philosophy of Qiao Xiaomai, it¡¯s pleasant.


    If you don¡¯t, she definitely won¡¯t appease him.


    As for him wooing women, to be honest, he just doesn¡¯t have the patience.


    He knows his own temperament. Hence, while Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s skills are good, he never thought to take her as a wife.


    Just like now, treating her as a friend, equal in regard, but she treats him with deference and respect, maintaining a respectful distance. This is indeed good.


    If they were actually husband and wife, entangling feelings between the sexes, things would beplicated like it is with Bai Zhi, always pushing boundaries and perpetually unsatisfied. It¡¯s exhausting.


    It¡¯s better now, whenever there¡¯s a fresh delicacy, she would prepare it.


    He stands by asionally stoking the fire like earlier, feeling quite at ease.


    ¡°However, even if I don¡¯t intend to marry her, I do appreciate her, greatly. So third brother, if you have intentions towards her, please win her heart gradually, don¡¯t rely on your status it¡¯s uncouth.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll be watching from the sidelines.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Yang Wang gave another snort, ¡°Watching?¡±


    ¡°Guarding, of course. As I said, I appreciate her, I don¡¯t want her to be in trouble,¡± Yang Ye exined with a face that suggested it was only natural.


    ¡°She¡¯s just a tough bone to crack, not as easy as you think, doesn¡¯t really matter if she¡¯s around or not. Third Brother, you don¡¯t need to put too much effort for her, she¡¯s not worth it.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Yang Wangughed, though his smile remained gloomy, ¡°Casually won a Hot Spring Vi from me, and you call that ¡®not worth it¡¯?¡±

 Chapter 336: The Words That Must Be Said

    Chapter 336: The Words That Must Be Said


    Trantor: 549690339 |


    Yang Ye clicked his tongue upon hearing this.


    Well, it seems his third brother was eyeing Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s money-making ability.


    What a pity, the little wealth deity was being targeted. That¡¯s problematic.


    While Yang Ye and Yang Wang were bantering, Qiao Xiaomai returned to the vige in her carriage.


    After arriving home, she soaked the mulberries given by Yang Ye in the water of the Spiritual Spring. Then she sat in the courtyard, lost in thoughts about Yang Ye¡¯s words from the afternoon.


    After a worrisome dinner, she sat again in the courtyard.


    At midnight, the figure of Tong Sang appeared in front of her and took a seat opposite to her as he usually did.


    She bit her lip, stood up, walked over to him, and wrapped her arms around his neck. Lifting one of her legs, she straddled him fully, sitting on his thighs.


    She hugged him tightly, her little face buried in the hollow of his neck, her nose turning sour and her eyes warming up.


    Tong Sang froze for a moment, then curved his lips in a smile, lifted his arms, and hugged her back tightly.


    As if he wanted to merge her into his own body, he held her tight.


    ¡°Tong Sang, Yang Ye seems to have targeted the Tong Family,¡± Qiao Xiaomai sniffed and whispered.


    ¡°I know, he went to Prefecture City. Someone from the Tingfeng Pavilion informed me,¡± Tong Sang patted her back, trying tofort her, ¡°Don¡¯t be afraid.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not afraid!¡± Qiao Xiaomai gritted her teeth, a determined look on her face, ¡°You¡¯re just the young master of Tingfeng Pavilion, and you¡¯re in the legitimate business of information trading. You didn¡¯t participate in the conspiracy at all.¡±


    ¡°The only thing that could threaten you now is the secret tunnel from the mountain to your house and mine. You should blow up the tunnel, and I¡¯ll take care of the treasure.¡±


    ¡°Without any evidence, what can Yang Ye do even if he finds the tunnel? Let¡¯s make him bite the dust!¡±


    Wasn¡¯t it just because there were too many things in the space that the treasure couldn¡¯t fit in?


    No problem, she would throw all those things away.


    She wasn¡¯t attached to them.


    They were not worth mentioningpared to Tong Sang.


    All she wanted was for Tong Sang to be safe.


    ¡°Listen, as long as Yang Ye can¡¯t find the treasure, the Tong Family won¡¯t be exposed. As long as your sixth grandfather in Capital City keeps it under wraps, your family will be safe,¡± Qiao Xiaomai said, gripping Tong Sang¡¯s shoulders tightly, her lips pressed into a thin line.


    ¡°Can you get hold of some gunpowder?¡±


    At these words, Tong Sang¡¯s brow furrowed, ¡°Gunpowder, it¡¯s highly ssified in Daqi.¡±


    Fireworks first appeared decades ago, the method of their production was controlled by the Yang Family, and themon folk did not know how to make them.


    Legend had it that the Yang Family was able to dominate all battles with a powerful gunpowder that could blow people to pieces.


    But such a thing was a top-secret, controlled by the Emperor and Emperor Yong¡¯an. He had just heard of it and never seen it with his own eyes.


    ¡°So, you can¡¯t get gunpowder¡­¡± Qiao Xiaomai gripped him tighter, hugging him harder, ¡°Then let¡¯s get the treasure out first.¡± @@novelbin@@


    It¡¯s a pity that she studied liberal arts and not the sciences.


    If she had a science background, she would have blown up the secret tunnel by now.


    ¡°Don¡¯t panic, calm down first.¡± Tong Sangforted her gently in her ear, patting her back, ¡°Tell me first, what did Wei Wang say to you today?¡±


    ¡°He told me to keep myself clean and not to get involved in affairs.¡± Qiao Xiaomai repeated Yang Ye¡¯s words.


    At this moment, Tong Sang genuinelyughed, his handsome face bright with delight, ¡°That¡¯s great.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai was not implicated by him. That truly is great.

 Chapter 337: This Love Affair is Tiring

    Chapter 337: This Love Affair is Tiring


    Trantor: 549690339 |


    Hearing these words, Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s eyes welled up with tears, barely holding them back, ¡°Yes, it¡¯s wonderful. I can unabashedly be in love with you now, no need to hide anymore.¡±


    ¡± What nonsense are you saying? This is already great. Each night I can walk in the moonlight, under the starlight to see you, my whole heart turns sweet.¡± From head to toe, even her hair felt sweet.


    The tear drops in Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s eyes began to umte, and she choked,


    ¡± What we are doing is actually being sneaky and secretive.¡±


    ¡°No, I think it¡¯s romantic.¡± The smile on Tong Sang¡¯s handsome face grew wider, his tone as gentle as the moonlight overhead, ¡°I¡¯ve never looked forward to the night more than I do now. You, you are a more beautiful sight than the moon and stars.¡±


    He softly sighed, ¡°Xiaomai, I¡¯m happy. Really happy.¡±


    His voice was as soft as the wind, whispering into Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s heart. The tears in her eyes could no longer hold back. Like a broken string of beads, they cascaded down her face.


    ¡°Stop with all the sweet talk. Decide where to dig a hole tonight, and tomorrow night bring me there to toss out the items from the space. Then, open the tunnel. I will collect the treasures. Got it?¡±


    What¡¯s in the space, save it if you can.


    ¡°This is a serious matter, I need to ask my grandfather.¡± said Tong Sang.


    ¡°Your grandfather will surely agree. At this point, there is no time for hesitation.¡±


    ¡°Now why don¡¯t you talk about Duke Duan, who is intent on marrying you?¡± ¡°Why are you changing the subject!¡± Qiao Xiaomai bit him hard on the neck. Tong Sang winced at the pain butughed at the same time, ¡°My beloved girl is being pursued, of course I need to weigh in. This is not changing the subject.¡±


    Feeling that she had bitten him too hard, Qiao Xiaomai licked the wound gently a few times before saying, ¡°Yang Ye will stop him, so you don¡¯t need to concern yourself.¡±


    She licked again.


    But Tong Sang seemed indifferent. He just smiled and said, ¡°Prince Wei is indeed a good man.¡±


    ¡°Tong Sang, what do you mean by that?¡± Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s face tensed up and she asked in an unpleasant tone.


    ¡°Stating a fact. As a prince, in all aspects, Prince Wei is deemed as excellent.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Qiao Xiaomai abruptly straightened up, pressing her hands hard against his shoulders. Her eyes were narrowed, disying the residual heat of her tears, ¡°Are you trying to cause trouble?¡±


    His dark eyes looked at her, the handsome face radiating a gentle glow. Heughed and reached out to gently wipe the tear stains off her face, ¡°Xiaomai, this is a situation which we can¡¯t run away from.¡±


    ¡°I am already prepared to die.¡± @@novelbin@@


    ¡°You can¡¯t¡­¡± Just as Qiao Xiaomai was about to protest, Tong Sang ced his hand over her mouth and with a serious look, said, ¡°Let me finish.¡±


    ¡°Living in the Tong family, I must be prepared to die at any moment.¡±


    ¡°I am happy, extremely happy to have met you and to have fallen in love with you. It is the luckiest thing to have happened in my short seventeen years. Every moment spent with you, I cherish as if it¡¯s myst.¡±


    ¡°For you, I will try my hardest to survive.¡±


    ¡°However, things can change unexpectedly. Effort alone can¡¯t always solve everything. So, you too have to be prepared for the fact that I could die at any time.¡±


    ¡°Therefore¡­¡±


    Tong Sang paused, gave a slightugh, ¡°I can¡¯t go on, you understand.¡±


    Just imagining the scenario was heart-wrenching.¡¯


    Asking him to speak out loud was like every word was a knife, leaving him bleeding.

 Chapter 368: Guessing

    Chapter 368: Guessing


    Trantor: 549690339 |


    Qiao Xiaomai, ¡°¡­¡±


    She took a deep breath, gripped his hand again, and asked through gritted teeth, ¡°Do you know how worried I was just now?¡±


    ¡°I know. That¡¯s why I tried to make youugh.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai, ¡°¡­ What just happened?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not sure, I suddenly felt chest tightness, shortness of breath, dizziness, ringing in ears and total exhaustion.¡± Tong Sang stopped smiling and answered seriously.


    ¡°And now?¡±


    ¡°Apart from still feeling exhausted, everything else is much better.¡±


    ¡°So what exactly happened?¡± Qiao Xiaomai frowned, squeezing his hand tighter, ¡°Even if you were infected with the rabies virus, it wouldn¡¯t have happened so fast.¡±


    ¡°Hmm¡­ Maybe there¡¯s something in my body that is beneficial to you. In the past, you had minor wounds so this substance would slowly flow out from my body and enter yours. But this time, you¡¯ve been infected with the rabies virus, and this substance was quickly drawn out of me all at once to fight the virus.¡±


    ¡°My body couldn¡¯t handle this situation, so I fainted.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai widened her eyes, ¡°Is that how it is?¡±


    ¡°Most likely, otherwise it¡¯s impossible to exin this.¡±


    ¡°So does this mean your saliva is useless to me now? Let me test it ¨C I¡¯m going to make a cut now.¡± Qiao Xiaomai said, reaching for a knife.


    ¡°Hey, there¡¯s no rush.¡± Tong Sang hastily intervened, ¡°Let¡¯s let things take their course. We¡¯ll try it when you get hurt next time.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Qiao Xiaomai withdrew the knife.


    She turned her gaze to Tong Sang, her expression gradually bing serious, ¡°I¡¯m pretty much healed now, but what about you? Were you infected with the virus?¡±


    ¡°Definitely not. If the substance in my body can help you eliminate the virus, it can certainly help me resist the virus too.¡± Tong Sang fell into thought, ¡°Actually, it¡¯s strange. From my childhood till now, it seems like I only fell ill when I was very young. I haven¡¯t been sick at all for years.¡±


    ¡°Really?¡± Qiao Xiaomai was skeptical.


    ¡°Yes.¡± Tong Sang affirmed, ¡°I haven¡¯t been sick for years, and I¡¯m much more agile than my martial arts master.¡±


    His martial arts skills were taught by his master, but he clearly surpassed his master, which shocked his master who had never seen anything like it before.


    Qiao Xiaomai stared at him, biting her lips, ¡°From now on, I will take care of all your meals every day.¡±


    She wasn¡¯t sure if Tong Sang was telling the truth, but until she figured it out, she could only do her best to nourish his body with the Spiritual Spring water.


    ¡°Isn¡¯t that a little too much?¡± Tong Sang was surprised.


    Qiao Xiaomai stared at him without any expression, ¡°As I said, if something happens to you, I will happily move on to my ¡®second life¡¯. Sit tight and watch me bask in the joy and warmth with my ¡®second life¡¯.¡±


    Tong Sang inhaled sharply, ¡°I can¡¯t imagine that scene. I might have to leap out of the coffin to kill someone.¡±


    ¡°Ha, you can move a coffin lid?¡± Qiao Xiaomai scoffed.


    Tong Sang smiled, ¡°Who knows.¡±


    He just wanted to do whatever he could for her.


    He could give up his life and abandon his family, fundamentally, he was just like Qiao Xiaomai.


    ¡°I need to go to the bathroom, can you help me?¡± He added.


    Qiao Xiaomai, ¡°¡­¡±


    Tong Sang looked innocent, ¡°I drank too much water.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai took a deep breath, ¡°Okay.¡±


    But before going to the bathroom, the clothes full of dog brain and blood had to be reced and cleaned.

 Chapter 339: Don’t be upset, I’ll perform the chest crushing stone for you.

    Chapter 339: Don¡¯t be upset, I¡¯ll perform the chest crushing stone for you.


    Trantor: 549690339 |


    Noticing her silence and anger, Tong Sang quickly added, ¡°Don¡¯t be angry. My grandfather told me to find a suitable ce. I¡¯ve already decided where to choose.¡±


    ¡± Where?¡± Qiao Xiaomai asked with a stern face.


    ¡°In the forest behind Rooster Mountain.¡±


    Behind Rooster Mountain lies a vast, untouched forest; it¡¯s a great ce to bury things.


    Hearing this, Qiao Xiaomai snorted and said, ¡°Then why didn¡¯t your great-grandmother bury the treasure in the forest in the first ce?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not easy to transport across the mountain, moreover, it¡¯s more reassuring to have the treasure buried on one¡¯s own property.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s under my property.¡± Qiao Xiaomai red at him. @@novelbin@@


    ¡°That¡¯s why I said, it¡¯s fate. You happen to be here, and this batch of treasure just happens to be buried under your house.¡± Tong Sangughed. His eyes gleamed like beautiful gemstones, reflecting Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s silhouette.


    Qiao Xiaomai stared back at him, her small face still stern, feeling worn out both mentally and physically.


    Her love affair is really tiring.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry. I¡¯ll go there this afternoon to check it out and start digging.¡± Tong Sang added.


    ¡°By yourself?¡±


    ¡°My master will be there too. He used to live in the mountains, but he moved to the forest when Ma Dongshu arrived.¡±


    ¡°So the secret of my space is exposed?¡± Qiao Xiaomai furrowed her brows even tighter.


    ¡°My master can be trusted. He was an elder who followed my great-grandmother. You don¡¯t have to worry.¡±


    ¡°Does he know howyour great-grandmother transported this batch of treasure here?¡± Qiao Xiaomai asked.


    ¡°He doesn¡¯t know.¡± Tong Sang shook his head.


    Qiao Xiaomai snorted, ¡°Since he doesn¡¯t know, you¡¯re not allowed to expose my space in front of him.¡±


    ¡°Alright, alright. I¡¯ll avoid him and dig by myself. Is that okay?¡± Tong Sang said.


    Qiao Xiaomai rolled her eyes at him, not responding.


    Seeing this, Tong Sang pursed his lips and said, ¡°I made a mistake. I promise I will never mention your space to anyone again.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai scornfully looked away, giving him another eye roll.


    How tiring.


    This affair is really tiring her out.


    ¡°Don¡¯t be angry. When you¡¯re mad, I don¡¯t feel good either.¡±


    ¡°How about you hit me? Feel free to.¡± Saying this, Tong Sang stretched his arm out towards her.


    At this point, Qiao Xiaomai couldn¡¯t even be bothered to roll her eyes.


    It takes energy to hit someone. Not only was her heart tired, but her body was too!


    ¡°If you don¡¯t want to hit me, should I hit myself?¡± Tong Sang asked, a touch of caution in his voice.


    Qiao Xiaomai just stared at him, unflinching.


    Blinking his overly long eyshes, he murmured, ¡°You probably can¡¯t bear to see me hurt.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai ¡°¡­¡±


    She was itching to hit him.


    ¡°How about this, I¡¯ll perform smashing a stone with my chest for you?¡± He suggested.


    Qiao Xiaomai ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°If you don¡¯t respond,1¡¯11 take it as consent.¡± Tong Sang looked around. He didn¡¯t find any rocks, but he did see the stone mill.


    ¡°This was given by Shopkeeper He, it¡¯ll do. I¡¯ll buy you a new one after it¡¯s broken. My grandfather promised to raise my sry. From now on, I can get a thousand taels per month at Tingfeng Pavilion, and another five hundred taels at Jiweiju.¡±


    He stood up and walked towards the stone mill.


    Qiao Xiaomai shouted, ¡°¡­ Stop.¡±


    Tong Sang obediently stopped, turned around, and looked innocently back at her.


    ¡± Who wants to watch such a brutish and tasteless performance?¡±

 Chapter 370: You want Miss Qiao to repay you?

    Chapter 370: You want Miss Qiao to repay you?


    Trantor: 549690339


    The gates of the courtyard swung open, and Yang Ye stepped in. But as he took in the situation in the courtyard, he froze.


    His phoenix eyes widened slightly as he asked, ¡°Why are you the one opening the door, and why is he seated looking so drained?¡±


    ¡°Because I¡¯m healed, and he¡¯s tired from carrying me back just now,¡± Qiao Xiaomai replied.


    ¡°Healed?¡± Yang Ye became even more surprised and instinctively nced at her right arm.


    She had changed her clothes, and her right arm was hidden under the sleeves, concealing the wound.


    Qiao Xiaomai nodded and hopped around on the ground to demonstrate her current energetic state. She said, ¡°I¡¯ve just applied the dog¡¯s brain medicine on my arm, it¡¯s wrapped with clean cloth now. Pleasee in and sit, sir.¡±


    ¡°Has it been appliedpletely?¡± While making his way further into the courtyard, Yang Ye asked.


    ¡°Yes,pletely applied,¡± Qiao Xiaomai confirmed with another nod.


    After all, the dog¡¯s brain had been disposed of in the toilet. Even if Yang Ye was suspicious, he wouldn¡¯t be able to find any.


    ¡°How do you feel now?¡± Yang Ye asked again.


    ¡°Thank you for your concern, sir. I feel splendid! If another mad doges around, I can even kick it away!¡±


    Looking at Qiao Xiaomai, Yang Ye frowned. Her face was pale yet rosy, showing no signs of having been bitten by a dog.


    He turned his gaze towards the boy seated under the willow tree.


    Though hisplexion seemed normal, if one looked closely, they could sense his frailty, as if he had just recovered from a severe illness.


    His brows furrowed further. ¡°Just what was your method of applying the dog¡¯s brain?¡±


    Why was the one who got sick bouncing around lively, while the one who was healthy looked drained?


    ¡°First, Brother Tong washed my wounds, then applied the dog¡¯s brain on it, and then bandaged it,¡± Qiao Xiaomai replied with a straight face.


    ¡°So he really is tired?¡± Yang Ye pointed at the boy named Tong.


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°Huh, if merely carrying you back home could exhaust him this much, he doesn¡¯t seem to be reliable for an entire lifetime.¡± Yang Ye said with a sly grin as he put his hands behind his back, half jokingly, half seriously.


    Qiao Xiaomaiughed, her expression unaffected. ¡°Sir, you¡¯re teasing me again.¡±


    Yang Ye let out a breathyugh, conceding, ¡°Indeed. Stepping up at critical moments like this is irresistible.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai smiled in response, but did notment.


    Yang Ye nced sideways at her, then pointed towards the kitchen. ¡°Since you¡¯re healed, why not prepare lunch in the kitchen. I have to present a memorial to the emperor and properly send off Cen Hong.¡±


    Rabies doesn¡¯t require bed rest, so one should carry on with their usual tasks.


    ¡°I don¡¯t have any writing materials at home,¡± she replied.


    ¡°I¡¯ve brought some,¡± Yang Ye responded with a wave of his hand.


    Qiao Xiaomai nodded in acknowledgment, ¡°Then I¡¯ll go prepare lunch now. Sir, do you have any specific dishes in mind?¡±


    It was fortunate that Yang Ye had stepped forward today, otherwise things could have ended poorly. She needed to show her gratitude.


    ¡°I would like to have Buddha Jumps Over the Wall, the one you made the other day,¡± Yang Wang strode in, conveniently picking up from Qiao Xiaomai¡¯sst statement.


    QiaoXiaomai¡±¡­¡±


    Yang Ye snorted, ¡°Third brother, where¡¯s the ingredients? Miss Qiao isn¡¯t wealthy enough to store abalone and shark fin at home.¡±


    After deriding Yang Wang, Yang Ye turned his gaze back to Qiao Xiaomai, ¡°Cook whatever you have.¡±


    Yang Wangughed, then approached Qiao Xiaomai, ¡°Miss Qiao, are you alright now?¡±


    ¡°We need to observe for a few more days. After all, rabies usually manifest a few days after infection,¡± she replied.


    ¡°I see, but there¡¯s no need to worry. The remedy I suggestedes from a divine doctor. It has proven remarkably effective and has cured patients before,¡± Yang Wang added.


    Watching this scene, Yang Ye asked with a hint of mockery in his eyes, ¡°Third brother, have you rushed over to seek Miss Qiao¡¯s gratitude?¡±

 Chapter 341: Tong Family’s Great Grandfather

    Chapter 341: Tong Family¡¯s Great Grandfather


    Trantor: 549690339 |


    ¡°Exactly, ehm. That green pill can induce hallucinations, after taking it, all things before one¡¯s eyes look distorted. Qiao Changkang, being a countryman with little knowledge, was panic-stricken after taking it, so I just had to bluff him a little, and he believed me.¡±


    ¡°Then even Qiao Chang¡¯an believed it and thought it was effective.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai ¡°¡­¡±


    No wonder she thought Ma Dongshu looked like a chatan that day.


    It turns out he was indeed bluffing.


    ¡°Anyway, thank you. Dami, go to the kitchen and serve the dishes,¡± Qiao Xiaomai said with a smile.


    Qiao Dami crisply responded with an ¡°okay,¡± and trotted off into the kitchen.


    There was no rule in the Qiao family that women and children couldn¡¯t sit at the table, so after Qiao Xiaomai returned the cloth to the room, she sat down with Qiao Dami.


    Ma Dongshu didn¡¯t mind this either, ncing at the full spread of splendid dishes on the table, his smile was like a Maitreya Buddha¡¯s, ¡°I can finally taste Miss Qiao¡¯s cooking again.¡±


    ¡°Just simple homely food. I hope you won¡¯t mind, Master Ma.¡±


    ¡°Sure don¡¯t, not at all,¡± Ma Dongshu shook his head, opened the wine jug, and poured two bowls of wine.


    He set a bowl in front of Qiao Changsun. He took the other bowl, a nostalgic look shed across his well-fed face, ¡°Your culinary skill, brings back memories of my mentor. He once described a bowl of white rice, saying it had a translucent brightness, and its fragrance could be smelled from a distance.¡±


    ¡°Moreover, the rice¡¯s fragrance was refreshing and delighted the heart. One sniff could make a person feel invigorated.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai blinked, how could a bowl of rice be translucent and bright?


    ¡°The most amazing thing is, this bowl of rice could revive the dead, rejuvenate the bones. Once, the previous emperor was seriously injured, all doctors were helpless. But after eating this bowl of rice, his injuries rapidly healed and in no time, he was back to his original state.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai ¡°¡­¡±


    Seeing Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s speechless expression, Ma Dongshu took a sip of wine, set down his bowl, stretched out his finger, and pointed at her, ¡°Don¡¯t believe it, huh?¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai, Qiao Changsun, and Qiao Dami all shook their heads in unison.


    Ma Dongshu¡¯s face took on a solemn expression and his tone became mysterious, quite like the day he was conning Qiao Changkang and Qiao Chang¡¯an, ¡°This bowl of rice, was made by a woman.¡±


    ¡°A woman?¡± Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s heart skipped a beat. She inexplicably thought of Tong Sang¡¯s great-grandmother, who had been a mistress before rising to power.


    ¡°Yes. This woman, she¡¯s extraordinary, extremely extraordinary.¡± Ma Dongshu pped the table, rolled up his sleeves, and his face held a kind of reverence.


    ¡°What makes her so extraordinary?¡± Qiao Xiaomai couldn¡¯t help but ask.


    ¡°She mesmerized a generation of heroes to the extent they abandoned their wives and neglected the empire, all for her, the beauty.¡± Ma Dongshu paused, his gaze sweeping over the trio, seeing the look of intense concentration on all their faces, he nodded appreciatively.


    He picked up his bowl and took a big gulp, then picked up a piece of deep-fried small dried fish with his chopsticks and, after a few chews, swallowed it before speaking again, ¡°Have you ever heard of Prince Pingnan, Gu Yu?¡±


    The three from the Qiao family all shook their heads together.


    But although Qiao Xiaomai shook her head, she was certain in her heart.


    The woman Ma Dongshu referred to was indeed Tong Sang¡¯s great-grandmother, who had been a mistress before seizing power.


    The surname of Tong¡¯s great-grandfather was initially Gu, but after Daqi was established, the Tong family needed to hide their real surname and assumed their actual great-grandmother¡¯s surname: Tong.


    And sure enough, Ma Dongshu hade to question her. @@novelbin@@


    He got straight to the point immediately, he really was rather eager.


    ¡°Have you ever heard of how, during the time of war and chaos of the previous dynasty, several powerfulndlords each imed kingship and one faction even stormed the Imperial Pce and looted the National Treasury,¡± Ma Dongshu nced at Qiao Xiaomai, then asked again.

 Chapter 342: The Retired Emperor and Great Grandfather

    Chapter 342: The Retired Emperor and Great Grandfather


    Trantor: 549690339


    ¡°No, we haven¡¯t.¡± Qiao Xiaomai spoke, shaking his head together with Qiao Changshun and Qiao Dami.


    News was not easily essible here, and at the time, the war had caused great upheaval. People lost their homes and lived in constant fear for their lives. They hardly had the leisure to pay attention to such incidents.


    Seeing this, Ma Dongshu continued, ¡°That powerful figure who stormed into the imperial pce and looted the national treasury was none other than Prince Pingnan, Gu Yu.¡±


    ¡°Gu Yu was already married with children, but upon meeting this woman, he abandoned his wife and married her. Later, he sparked a revolt and started fighting his way from his hometown to the capital city.¡± @@novelbin@@


    ¡°During all this, this woman contributed greatly. Legend has it that she invented a divine weapon that could st people into pieces. With this weapon, Prince Pingnan was invincible and managed to fight his way from his hometown all the way to the capital city.¡±


    ¡°And then?¡± Qiao Xiaomai calmly asked.


    As for the specifics of this part of the story, Tong Sang was not privy to them.


    By the time Tong Tiehu and Tong Liu were sent away and reached Anping Vige under the care of the mistress¡¯s great-grandmother, everything had ended.


    They were unclear on how their great-grandfather and the mistress¡¯s great-grandmother fought on the battlefield.


    Ma Dongshu paused, took a drink, and picked up a piece of cold pork ears with his chopsticks. He continued after swallowing, ¡°In the midst of this, Prince Pingnan and the present retired emperor struck up an immediate rapport and became best friends.¡±


    QiaoXiaomai: ¡°¡­¡±


    Oh my God!


    There¡¯s this part of the story too?!


    She struggled to maintain aposed expression, not blinking or twitching an eysh, only disying moderate surprise while her clear peony-eyes looked at Ma Dongshu.


    Ma Dongshu, with his eyebrows furrowed, stroked his beard, ¡°But for some reason,ter on, these two¡­fell out.¡±


    ¡°However, the one who drove Prince Pingnan out of the capital city was not the retired Emperor, but another powerful person.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai remained silent.


    She knew about this.


    The person who drove the Tong family¡¯s great-grandfather out of the capital city wasn¡¯t the Yang family.


    However, the person the Tong family¡¯s great-grandfather held a grudge against was indeed the Yang family. He not only held a grudge, he even incited Tong Tiehu and Tong Liu to rebel.


    ¡°The one who drove Prince Pingnan, Gu Yu, out of the capital city was the Eastern Lord, Fu Xuan. Not only did Fu Xuan force Gu Yu out of the capital city, but he also trapped Gu Yu¡¯s thirty thousand troops with his one hundred thousand soldiers near Qingyi Manor, not far from the capital city.¡±


    ¡°Qingyi Manor, a good name. ¡®Qing¡¯ symbolizes emotions, which Gu Yu held in high regard. He gathered the elite from his thirty thousand soldiers to form a small assault team. With this team, he broke through Fu Xuan¡¯s encirclement and safely evacuated the woman.¡±


    ¡°Prince Pingnan, Gu Yu, died in battle at Qingyi Manor after sending his beloved woman out of the encirclement.¡±


    ¡°With his death, the national treasury treasures he had stolen disappeared without a trace.¡±


    ¡°Fu Xuan turned over every inch of the ground in Qingyi Manor, even digging three feet into the ground, but still didn¡¯t find a single treasure.¡±


    ¡°Thus, there were rumors in the jianghu that the woman took the treasure away.¡±


    Ma Dongshu paused here and drained the wine in his bowl.


    He wiped his mouth and poured himself another bowl.


    ¡°Brother Ma, that¡¯s impossible, isn¡¯t it? The national treasury¡­ So many treasures¡­ How could a woman carry them all out of an encirclement of a hundred thousand men?¡± Qiao Changshun spoke again.


    This story was undoubtedly a fairy tale to him.


    However, he listened very attentively, fully engrossed.


    ¡°That remains a mystery.¡± Ma Dongshu muttered, taking up his bowl with one hand and chopsticks in the other. He started munching heartily, eating and drinking in turn, his demeanor quite mboyant. ¡°During the years of war, there should have been many stories and legends.¡±


    ¡°But the retired Emperor didn¡¯t allow it, so many things were unknown to themon people.¡±

 Chapter 373:1 want to dig up this land!

    Chapter 373:1 want to dig up thisnd!


    Trantor: 549690339 |


    Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s mind was spinning rapidly. After a moment, she smiled and said, ¡°Please have a seat, elder brothers. I feel a bit unwell, I will go rest in my room.¡±


    ¡°Okay, okay, you go rest. I¡¯ll attend to our two younger brothers,¡± Qiao Changshun quickly agreed.


    ¡°Please, Miss,¡± the two guards said.


    With a weak demeanor, Qiao Xiaomai entered the house. Once she closed the door to the hall, her legs went soft, and she almost fell.


    She took a deep breath, steadied herself against the door, and headed back to her room.


    After lowering the heavy curtains, she went to the corner of the room, took a heavy cleaver from her storage space, and pried up a piece of green brick from the floor.


    Feeling the rubble soil under the green brick, she clenched her lips, swiftly wielded the cleaver, and prised up all the green bricks from where she was standing.


    After storing the green bricks in her storage space, she began to rapidly dig at the rubble soil foundation with the cleaver.


    She had no lighthearted skills and couldn¡¯t go to the Tong Family. It was already toote to go to the mountains.


    Currently, all she could do was dig up her own ground and store those treasures in her space.


    Thanks to the heavens for blessing her with great strength.


    Thanks to the heavens for the sudden upgrade of her space.


    Thanks to the mistress¡¯s great-grandmother for burying the treasure under her home.


    All these circumstances provided her a way out, rather than sitting idle, waiting for death.


    The cleaver was not as good as a spade due to its narrow back; however, under Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s great effort this didn¡¯t pose an issue, as she quickly dug a pit over one meter deep, justrge enough for a person to squat in.


    Now that the foundation had been dug up, the soil underneath was exposed.


    Qiao Xiaomai listened to the noise outside. Seeing that Qiao Changshun was still chatting leisurely with the two guards, she jumped out of the pit, took a hemp rope from her storage space, tied it to the leg of the bed, and then jumped back down to continue digging.


    A quarter of an hourter, the pit had reached a depth of two meters, and she decided to stop.


    ording to Tong Sang, the treasure was buried three meters under the ground. She took a shlight out of her space for illumination and was much more careful now.


    Another quarter of an hour passed, and her cleaver hit a hard y brick, producing a faint sound. Her eyes lit up with joy.


    She carefully removed the soil under her feet and stored it in her space, then carefully examined the y brick under her feet.


    Tong Sang mentioned that beneath the y bricks was iron sheeting, and below that was the treasure.


    Time was pressing, so she nced a few times, then carefully used the cleaver to scrape at the crevices between the bricks. The cleaver was very sharp, she had initially thought she would easily pry up the crevice, but to her surprise, she couldn¡¯t open the crevice made of y!


    She knitted her brows, increased her strength, and the cleaver gave off a piercing squeal as if it had touched hard steel.


    Startled, she quickly stopped her activity and listened to the noise outside.


    Outside, Qiao Changshun was still chatting with the two guards under a willow tree,pletely oblivious to the noise inside.


    Qiao Xiaomai pursed her lips. Instead of scraping, she gripped the cleaver tightly and stabbed hard into the crevice between the y bricks.


    This time, with the same amount of force as before, the cleaver touched the crevice and again made a sharp, short sound. However, things were better than before; the tip of the cleaver went in.


    She clenched her teeth, pulled out the cleaver, and stabbed it in again.


    This time she used more force, so the cleaver made a louder noise when it touched the crevice.


    The two guards sitting under the willow tree, chatting with Qiao Changshun, exchanged nces. One of them stood up and looked towards Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s room, ¡°Miss Qiao, are you alright?¡±

 Chapter 344: Take This Fabric to Make Clothes

    Chapter 344: Take This Fabric to Make Clothes


    Trantor: 549690339 |


    ¡°Miss Qiao, your statement is somewhat biased. It was only thest few emperors of the previous dynasty who were ipetent. The initial rulers were not too bad. The treasures they umted did note with bloodshed.¡± Ma Dongshu said.


    ¡°But I cannot discern which ones are tainted with blood and which ones are not.¡± Qiao Xiaomai looked at him with clear eyes.


    Qiao Changshun nodded repeatedly on the side, ¡°Xiaomai is right. I remember my father saying that in the previous dynasty, the tax was too heavy. Ordinary families simply couldn¡¯t afford to pay. The tax paid in silver indeed was stained with blood.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s inauspicious, we shouldn¡¯t touch it.¡±


    He spoke and nodded heavily again, lifted his wine bowl towards Ma Dongshu, ¡°Brother Ma, let¡¯s change the subject. This is a good day, let¡¯s talk about something auspicious.¡±


    Ma Dongshu ¡°¡­¡±


    Heughed, clinked his wine bowl with Qiao Changshun¡¯s, and said, ¡°It¡¯s Miss Qiao¡¯s great cooking skills that unconsciously reminded me of that bowl of rice, leading to all these topics. My apologies, let¡¯s drink to that.¡±


    ¡°No worries, it just slipped out.¡± Qiao Changshun said with a simple smile, ¡°Speaking of which, it¡¯s almost time to pay the Spring Tax. Ah, I have lived for decades, but I have never looked forward to the tax payment day like this.¡±


    In the past, every time it was time to pay taxes, his heart ached, wishing time could stop and not go to that day.


    Unlike now, with enough silver and wheat, he¡¯s confident!


    ¡°Indeed, it¡¯s all thanks to His Majesty¡¯s good governance. The world is at peace!¡± Ma Dongshuughed.


    ¡°Exactly, exactly.¡± Qiao Changshun wholeheartedly agreed and immediately started discussing with Ma Dongshu how good Emperor Yongan really is.


    Ma Dongshu naturally ttered him to the sky, hence making the dinner table harmonious.


    A faint smile remained on Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s face, but her curious mind nearly slipped out several times: Tong Tiehu¡¯s great-grandfather was actually sworn brothers with the retired emperor. What on earth happened?!


    How did they fall out?


    If Tong Tiehu¡¯s ancestor left a will for Tong Tiehu and Tong Liu to overthrow the rule by the Yang family, then what is the Yang family¡¯s attitude towards the Tong family?


    If the Tong family gives up the rebellion and stops causing trouble, would the Yang family give the Tong family a chance to live in peace?


    This question, has no answer.


    Until Ma Dongshu left, Qiao Xiaomai didn¡¯t manage to ask.


    She couldn¡¯t ask.


    If she did, it might fall into a trap Ma Dongshu set up. He said he didn¡¯t know how Tong family¡¯s great-grandfather and the retired emperor fell out. What if he deliberately set a trap and lured her into it?


    Ah, the dilemma!


    Qiao Changshun had a bit of alcohol, and his face was as flushed as if he was wearing rouge, his head also became dizzy. Qiao Xiaomai didn¡¯t let him move around and helped him to rest.


    Soon, Qiao Zhaodi and Qiao Yindi, the sisters arrived.


    Qiao Xiaomai didn¡¯t assign them tasks. She took out the silk cloth that Ma Dongshu brought, ¡°Here, take this and make a couple of outfits.¡±


    Qiao Zhaodi was startled, and repeatedly shook her head and waved her hands, ¡°No, no, it¡¯s too valuable.¡± @@novelbin@@


    ¡°It¡¯s not expensive. Our family is well-off, and I n to rece all our hemp clothes with silk ones. The material of this piece is good, you both take it and make a couple of outfits.¡±


    ¡°Let the vigers see thating to my house was the right decision.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Qiao Zhaodi and Qiao Yindi exchanged a nce. Qiao Zhaodi came forward and took the piece of cloth, ¡°Thank you, Sister Mai.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re wee. Just remember, this fabric is for the two of you to make dresses, don¡¯t you dare give it to anyone else. If I find out, I will get angry.¡± Qiao Xiaomai added.

 Chapter 375: The Basement is Empty! (Additional Release)

    Chapter 375: The Basement is Empty! (Additional Release)


    Trantor: 549690339


    Qiao Xiaomai stared at this brick, carefully searched in the space for a while, and finally found a can of strong glue.


    The glue was the same she had used against her stepmother years ago. She had sneakily glued her stepmother¡¯s skirt, along with her underwear, to the chair during a cocktail party, making her suffer a huge embarrassment.


    Because she had won that battle brilliantly, she kept the can of strong glue in her space as a memento of victory.


    Unexpectedly, it came in handy in this different time-space.


    She did not have the luxury of time to be sentimental and promptly used the strong glue to stick the y brick back in ce.


    After confirming that the y brick would not fall off, she packed up the strong glue, took out the soil she had dug up earlier from her space bit by bit, and slowly filled up the soil pit.


    When she filled back the crushed stone soil of the foundationyer, in the secret tunnel, Yang Ye, Yang Wang, Ma Dongshu, along with Tong Sang and Tong Tiehu, appeared in this huge underground vault.


    Three meters thick soilyer, and in the middle ayer of soil bricks as hard as steel, the noise created by Xiaomai¡¯s work was no longer audible to them.


    The air in the vault was filled with ayer of dust, Yang Ye, covering his nose with a handkerchief, examined the surroundings in the light of the torch.


    It was vast and high, its grandeur could even match that of the pce in the Imperial Pce.


    But it was surprisingly empty!


    A space asrge as an acre, over ten meters high, such a huge underground cave was empty!


    It had absolutely nothing in it apart from the dust floating in the air!


    This was not right!


    ording to the treasure map, the treasure trove of the previous dynasty¡¯s national treasury was buried here in Anping Vige. However, since he did not know the exact location, he had invited Ma Dongshu toe over.


    After arriving, Ma Dongshu searched around the mountain and the vige but found nothing.


    Just this morning, to stop Yang Wang from pestering Qiao Xiaomai again, he took Yang Wang for hunting in the mountains.


    Then, unexpectedly, they found a crack in the mountain¡¯s cliff. After erging the crack, hidden inside was a cave.


    The cave connected to a secret tunnel that seemed to lead off somewhere.


    A secret tunnel!


    At that time, he was overjoyed. If he found the secret tunnel, could the treasure be far away?


    The treasure couldn¡¯t be far away!


    Therefore, he immediately sent people to invite Tong Sang and Tong Tiehu over. As soon as these two behaved unusually, he could capture them at any time.


    Well¡­ it would be difficult to capture Tong Sang, but Tong Tiehu would not be a problem!


    Tong Sang might have reservations and might surrender.


    Back in the day, it was Gu Yu¡¯s woman who disappeared with the treasure. In the whole Anping Vige, the Tong family was the most suspicious.


    Was Tong Sang¡¯s martial arts derived from a secret martial arts manual?


    Heh.


    Such light work, in the whole Daqi, no, in the whole world, was unheard of, unseen. Its magic was almost as astonishing as Gu Yu¡¯s woman.


    The Tong family was highly likely rted to that woman!


    Just because he became suspicious of the Tong family, he had tipped Qiao Xiaomai that way before, hoping that Qiao Xiaomai would not be deceived by Tong Sang.


    But Qiao Xiaomai, a girl who has rarely seen men, and Tong Sang, who showed deep affection and loyalty, his words werepletely disregarded.


    However, it didn¡¯t matter, Tong Sang was Tong Sang, and Qiao Xiaomai was Qiao Xiaomai.


    As long as Qiao Xiaomai behaved honestly and know her ce, then he could save her life.


    So, not only did he send people to invite Tong Tiehu and Tong Sang over, but he also sent two people to protect Qiao Xiaomai.


    Once the treasure emerged, Yang Wang, and Cen Hongping would fall into a crazy state. In such a chaotic situation, Qiao Xiaomai, a weak woman, had no ability to protect herself.


    So, he had nned it all very well.


    On one hand, he called Tong Tiehu and Tong Sang.


    On the other hand, he sent people to protect Qiao Xiaomai.


    But to his surprise, after going through a long secret tunnel, this huge vault turned out to be empty!


    Empty!


    [Thank you for all your votes, my lovelies. Love you all ¨C Kisses ~ ~ That 2D male god is indeed little brother~]

 Chapter 346: 346: Don’t Panic!

    Chapter 346: 346: Don¡¯t Panic!<div>


    Trantor: 549690339 |


    Observing them for two days, the sisters were honest and hardworking; qualities that Qiao Xiaomai appreciated in people.


    She was usually generous towards those she liked.<div>


    Moreover, her current offer was meant to give the sisters something to look forward to.


    She wasn¡¯t sure whether they could fully sever ties with Zhao Shufen, but she didn¡¯t particrly care. As long as they were honest and didn¡¯t cause trouble, she wouldn¡¯t mistreat them.


    Just like what Yang Ye advised her yesterday, a bright future awaited those who refrained from causing trouble.


    The sisters Qiao Zhaodi and Qiao Yindi were once again taken aback by this hopeful vision of the future.


    She was going to prepare their dowries?


    The sisters weren¡¯t young anymore and ideally should have been betrothed by now. However, Zhao Shufen wanted them to stay and help with the household chores for a few more years, dying their marriages.


    To their surprise, after only a day or two in Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s home, they received this promise.


    They weren¡¯t here to serve as ves but to fall into a blessed nest!


    ¡°Don¡¯t stand there, keep going. I bought some fabric yesterday. After you two have finished making your clothes, make a few sets for me, your uncle, and Dami,¡± Qiao Xiaomai said.


    The fabrics that Yang Wang sent were quite good; it was enough for all three of them.


    Hearing this, Qiao Zhaodi and Qiao Yindi got busy, flying their needles and threading swiftly.<div>


    But their expressions had changed from earlier. Apart from being numb, there was something lively on their faces.


    It¡¯s as if the almost dried-out trees had met with sweet rain, renewing their vitality and spirit!


    It wasn¡¯t long before nightfall, and Tong Sang arrived on time.


    He¡¯d spent a long time in the primeval forest today, selecting a ce to start digging tomorrow.


    ¡°This¡¯ll probably take about seven or eight days,¡± he estimated.


    ¡°That¡¯s pretty fast,¡± Qiao Xiaomai remarked.


    Her space was about the size of a ser field, three meters high. For Tong Sang to dig a hole of that size and bury the contents of her space, seven or eight days was indeed pretty fast.


    ¡°By the way, Ma Dongshu mentioned today that your great-grandfather and ***** were sworn brothers. Did you know that?¡± she asked.


    Surprise flickered across Tong Sang¡¯s handsome face, disbeliefcing his voice. ¡°Really?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, your great-grandmother really dropped the ball there, not informing you about anything, only asking your two grandfathers to rebel, and dragging you into it,¡± Qiao Xiaomai couldn¡¯t help but roll her eyes. ¡°And your great grandfather, all he said was that he wanted to raise a storm, but what the hell is this ¡®storm¡¯ about?¡±


    ¡°Rebellion is a big deal, they didn¡¯t even give you the whole picture!¡±<div>


    At this point, Qiao Xiaomai couldn¡¯t help but grind her teeth, ¡°Theirck ofmunication has left you in a passive and agonizing position!¡±


    Tong Sang touched his nose, remaining silent.


    After all, these two were his elders; he couldn¡¯t criticize them.


    ¡°Hmm¡­ my grandfather said that Prince Wei is very likely trying to trick us. I am just a rural boy with surprisingly high martial arts skills, so he has directed his suspicion towards me. If he had any evidence or clues, he would have sent people already instead of staying silent,¡± he exined.


    ¡°He spent the whole day at the Academy today, not going out. Prince Duan also didn¡¯t go out.¡±


    ¡°Really?¡± Qiao Xiaomai thought back to Yang Ye¡¯s strange smile, her eyebrows furrowing.@@novelbin@@


    Was Yang Ye really trying to trick her?


    ¡°Whether it¡¯s a trick or not, we can¡¯t panic. We should carry on with our usual tasks and not show any signs of anxiety.¡±


    ¡°The day after tomorrow is when the Spring Tax is due. After the tax is collected, many families will have nted their crops of Xiaomi and sweet potatoes, and your manor can start its construction.¡±

 Chapter 347: Paying the Spring Tax

    Chapter 347: Paying the Spring Tax


    Trantor: 549690339 |


    Qiao Xiaomai looked at him and took a long sigh.


    Alright, it could only be this way at the moment.


    The day passed in a blink, and soon it was the day to pay the Spring Tax.


    Early in the morning, Tong Tiehu rang the big bell of the marketce, summoning everyone in the vige.


    The county town¡¯s bailiffs had arrived, the tables were set up, and they were collecting taxes from each household ording to the poption and farnd recorded in the household register.


    For peasants, the taxation of Daqi wasn¡¯t burdensome. All that was required was to hand over a certain amount of grain and cloth as per the size of their fields, and serve a month ofbor during idle farming seasons. And with that, their tax obligations would be fulfilled.


    Abominations like property tax and head tax from the previous dynasties were totally absent under Daqi.


    However, even though Emperor Yongan had reducedbor services and taxes, for farmers, paying taxes was always an unpleasant task. @@novelbin@@


    Adding to this, the weather was also hot. Almost everyone had a furrowed brow and a bitter look on their face.


    Qiao Xiaomai sat atop an ox-cart, holding a lotus leaf as a sunshade and looking somewhat bored at the long queue ahead.


    There were too many people in Anping Vige. The queue for paying taxes was long, and as she arrivedte, she had no choice but to wait.


    Moreover, her family owned a lot of farnd that yielded arge amount of grain tax. Even with the ox-cart and donkey cartbined, they wouldn¡¯t be able to transport all of it in one trip. The whole day would be consumed in this activity.


    As the vige chief, Tong Tiehu had to assist the bailiffs in collecting the wheat. His grandson, Tong Sang, was also helping him alongside.


    Weighing the wheat, loading the cart, these simple actions were repeated over and over with no break.


    It was already summer, and the sun overhead was zing. He had been working incessantly, and yet his face didn¡¯t have a trace of sweat.


    His coarse hemp garment was still fresh and refreshing.


    His posture was straight, his movements neat and efficient.


    Among a crowd of farmers, whose appearances became incongruous with their ages due to hardbor, he stood out remarkably.


    Qiao Xiaomai stared at him for a long time, and suddenly, the corner of her mouth curled up into a smile.


    This man, was hers.


    While she was grinning to herself, a familiar figure shed before her eyes. Thin and shriveled, but containing boundless energy, it had left a deep mark of fear in the original host over the past decade.


    It was the Sun Family.


    Dressed in a brand-new ck silk dress, her ck and white speckled hair neatly bundled behind her head, a silver hairpin inserted on top.


    She walked straight through the long queue to the front, standing before Tong Tiehu and a few bailiffs.


    She stood up straight, her chin held high, emanating a striking air of arrogance, ¡°Vige Chief Tong, I¡¯m here to pay the spring tax for our Xiaowu.¡±


    Although Sun Junyan was driven out of the vige, thend was still registered under his name ¨C a total of forty-five acres.


    Tong Tiehu stared nkly at her, ¡°Get in line for tax payment.¡±


    ¡°I live far away, it¡¯s not easy for me toe over. Vige Chief Tong, please do as you see fit and let me go first!¡±


    Sun said, taking out a small piece of silver from her bosom, and directly pped it on the table in front of Tong Tiehu, a boastful smile on her face, ¡°Vige Chief Tong, our Xiaowu now serves under General Cen.¡±


    At these words, Tong Tiehu, who had been eyeing the silver, lifted his eyelids to look at her.


    Sang, who had been loading wheat onto the cart, couldn¡¯t help but turn his head to look at her as well.


    The vigers, who had been somewhat impatient because of her cutting in line, were stunned.


    The few bailiffs also looked somewhat surprised.


    General Cen, Cen Hong?

 Chapter 348: My Xiaowu is Working with General Cen!

    Chapter 348: My Xiaowu is Working with General Cen!


    Trantor: 549690339 |


    That was exactly the effect the Sun Family wanted to achieve.


    Shock. @@novelbin@@


    A shock that left everyone who heard the news speechless.


    She had been waiting for this day for a long time.


    From the day Sun Junyan had started to study, she had been looking forward to this moment. After waiting for so many years, this scenario which had appeared in her dreams countless times, had finally be a reality!


    Previously, she was driven out of the vige like a stray dog, but now, in less than two months, she was back, standing tall!


    She raised her hand to smooth out the wrinkles on her new dress, then patted her waist bag which was packed with the twenty taels of silver that Sun Junyan had given her.


    This hard bag of twenty taels of silver made her stand even straighter, lift her chin even higher, wishing she could look down her nose at these people who used to require her to serve them with humility.


    In the scenario she had envisioned in her dreams, after revealing her status and stunning the crowd, she¡¯d wait for people toe and curry favor with her.


    With this in mind, she gave a smug smile and said, ¡°Vige Chief Tong, Xiaowu now serves under General Cen, and is highly regarded by him. You do know General Cen, right? He is the protector of our Changyi Prefecture and a second- rank official!¡±


    ¡°If you encounter any problems in the future, you can ask Xiaowu for help. He can solve them for you!¡±


    As soon as these words came out, the crowd fell silent.


    Tiehu Tong¡¯s brow furrowed as he signaled for a viger standing behind the Sun Family to move forward.


    With an emotionless face, Tong Sang continued his work, casually tossing two bags of wheat of over a hundred pounds each onto the horse cart.


    The several bailiffs on site just resumed their duties as well.


    In Bailu Town, no official could act recklessly to their own liking.


    That included Cen Hong.


    Thest imperial decree was the best proof.


    Since Tiehu Tong had the right side of thew on his side, they didn¡¯t need to yield to an old country wife.


    The Sun Family was stunned. Her smug smile froze and she pped the table, ¡°Vige Chief Tong, are you hard of hearing? My Xiaowu is now a favored person by General Cen!¡±


    ¡°Come here.¡± Vige Chief Tong¡¯s face darkened and he pointed at a few people in the line, ¡°Take Sun Family away. She¡¯s disrupting the collection of taxes, the prefect will me us.¡±


    It was the same familiar tone.


    And the same familiar dominance.


    The Sun Family was taken aback.


    Her Xiaowu was even now a favorite of General Cen, why was Vige Chief Tong, a small vige official, still treating her like this?


    She¡¯s not the submissive old country wife of the past anymore!


    ¡± Who dares to touch me!¡± She roared and red at the vigers walking towards her, yelling menacingly, ¡°My Xiaowu is favoured by General Cen, are you not afraid that General Cen will punish you if you dare to touch me!¡±


    This remark made those vigers pause their steps.


    General Cen, the same general who previously forced Qiao Xiaomai to cut himself, even though the Emperorter sided with Qiao Xiaomai.


    But they were not Qiao Xiaomai, they had no connection to the Emperor.


    God forbid if that General Cen really decided to punish them, they wouldn¡¯t be able to bear it.


    Noticing the hesitation of those vigers, the Sun Family let out a scoff. Hands on hips, she held her head high, face full of smugness.


    Good, although there was no scene of everyone trying to curry favor with her as in her dreams, this was enough to make her feel ted.


    In the past, she had always been restrained with no power to resist whenever Vige Chief Tong gave an order.


    Now, these lowly vigers finally didn¡¯t dare to touch her!


    She had been fantasizing about this scene for a long time and it had finallye true!


    ¡°Vige Chief Tong, I¡¯vee all this way to pay the taxes, without tax arrears or causing trouble and being straightforward. And yet you want to detain me for no reason. What are you up to exactly!¡±

 Chapter 349: Still longing for Tong Sanlang!

    Chapter 349: Still longing for Tong Sang!


    Trantor: 549690339 |


    ¡°No trouble?¡± Tong Tiehu snorted coldly, ¡°Everyone else is lining up without a singleint. Who do you think you are to skip in front of them? Are you superior to our fellow vigers?¡±


    ¡°In essence, isn¡¯t you just a shrewd countrywoman? What¡¯s there to be proud of?¡±


    ¡°Your son Xiaowu is a favorite of General Cen, but so what? Does he hold any office or any rank? Hoping to queue jump without a word? On what ground?¡±


    Indeed, those in power do have privilegespared to ordinary folks.


    Take his family, the Tong Family, for example. Although he is only a trivial vige chief, the lowest ranking official in Daqi, his family gets to avoid ten percent of the taxes, and they never have to line up to pay them.


    But what about the Sun Family?


    Just because Sun Junyan has gained favor with Cen Hong, they expect privileges too?


    Dream on.


    ¡°If you want to skip the line, state Sun Junyan¡¯s position. Otherwise, move to the back.¡± Tong Tiehu said coldly.


    He could easily guess why Sun Junyan was able to cozy up to Cen Hong. It must be because he is not fond of Qiao Xiaomai.


    Gaining favor from Cen Hong for such a reason, huh, let¡¯s see how long thatsts.


    The Sun Family¡¯s mother looked at Tong Tiehu¡¯s familiar stern face, dumbstruck.


    Her son Xiaowu currently only runs errands for Cen Hong; he doesn¡¯t have any official title.


    But even without a title, her son Xiaowu is still a favorite of Cen Hong.


    What¡¯s that saying? Even the gatekeeper in a minister¡¯s house is a seventh-rank official, far more powerful than a county head.


    Although her son Xiaowu doesn¡¯t hold an official title, he is still a favorite in front of a second-rank official, and he can speak to Cen Hong directly!


    If the same scenario were to happen to other vige chiefs, they would certainly cater to her tax payment needs without anyints.


    But this Tong Tiehu, he doesn¡¯t have basic social courtesies! Not only doesn¡¯t he seek to do favors for her, but he also tries to threaten and confront her!


    So intent to challenge her identity, it¡¯s infuriating!


    ¡°Humph, what¡¯s the big fuss about jumping the line to pay tax? It¡¯s just a minor matter; you are overreacting, Chief Tong.¡± She snorted unhappily.


    ¡°I¡¯m just being impartial here.¡±


    ¡°If you offend General Cen, you won¡¯t have many good days ahead!¡±


    ¡°Take her away.¡± Upon hearing the threat, Tong Tiehu¡¯s face turns even colder. He turns his gaze to Tong Sang.


    Tong Sang puts down the bag of wheat in his hand, steps forward, reaches out to grab the Sun Family¡¯s mother¡¯s shoulder, getting ready to drag her aside.


    Seeing Tong Sang, a chill runs down the Sun family¡¯s mother¡¯s spine.


    She remembers thest time he cornered her. Tong Sang is an expert at martial arts, she cannot handle him.


    Taking a deep breath, she huffs, ¡°Tong Sang! My family¡¯s circumstances have turned around big time now, we¡¯re no longer the inferior folks we used to be. If you¡¯ve changed your mind and are willing to marry Meipan, I¡¯m ready to let bygones be bygones and ask Xiaowu to put in good words for you to General Cen.¡±


    ¡°You have great skills, if you catch General Cen¡¯s attention and join the military, reaching the top would be a matter of time!¡±


    As the words came out, while Tong Sang remained unaffected, Qiao Xiaomai sat up straight.


    What the hell! @@novelbin@@


    This old shrew is still eyeing Tong Sang!


    This is absolutely intolerable!


    Without a moment¡¯s hesitation, she ced the lotus leaf on the ox cart. She couldn¡¯t just throw it away as it was folded by Tong Sang.


    ¡°Sun Family¡¯s mother, since your family is doing so well now, why are you still thinking about Tong Sang? He¡¯s just a country young man, in what way is he good enough for your Qiao Meipan? Your Qiao Meipan should be matched with a high official!¡±

 Chapter 380: What A Human Can’t Do

    Chapter 380: What A Human Can¡¯t Do


    Trantor: 549690339 |


    Yang Ye descends from the mountain, his forehead slick with sweat. In this scorching weather, he¡¯s lost his usual royal grace and poise, manifesting the mundane qualities of an ordinary man.


    Qiao Xiaomai hands him a bowl of iced fruit smoothie. ¡°Try this, Your Highness.¡±


    Unlike the future world, where a great variety of fruit is avable, the smoothie contains only some mulberries, peaches, apricots, and dates.


    Nheless, Yang Ye doesn¡¯t mind. He takes therge bowl, grabs a spoon and starts to eat hungrily.


    The icy sweet fruit cools his heated body. He squints his eyes in satisfaction andments, ¡°Not bad.¡±


    With a smile, Qiao Xiaomai asks, ¡°Where is Prince Duan?¡±


    ¡°Still on the mountain with Cen Hong, nning the exploration of the secret tunnel,¡± replies Yang Ye.


    ¡°All, I see,¡± responds Xiaomai. ¡°I might join them after lunch.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Yang Ye nces at her and nods in approval, ¡°Okay.¡±


    Soon, the cold noodles are served, tasting refreshing and chewy. Yang Ye can¡¯t help but praise, ¡°Nicely done! You keeping up with fresh ideas.¡±


    He clicks his tongue, leaving his sentence unfinished, yet his meaning clear.


    Smiling, Xiaomai points at the vegetable garden, ¡°Once the chili peppers are ready, we can chop them, pour hot oil over and make chilli oil to add into the cold noodle. It will taste even better.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll remember that,¡± Yang Ye¡¯s gaze drifts towards the small patch of garden space.


    He clearly recalls the delightful taste of the chili oil cucumber Xiaomai prepared once.


    Therefore, Xiaomai must stay alive.


    She must live a long life because losing her would mean losing many beautiful things in life.


    After finishing lunch, Yang Ye doesn¡¯t take a break but heads right back to the mountain.


    The treasure was gone, making all efforts pointless. But to prevent Yang Wang and Cen Hong from creating any further problems, he needs to stay and keep an eye on them.


    Xiaomai and her family join to watch the fun.


    Cen Hong¡¯s brought a hundred soldiers over from Huai¡¯an County. By the time Xiaomai and Yang Ye arrive, the secret tunnel has already transformed significantly.


    All dust has been swept away, with torches ced every ten meters making the once gloomy tunnel bright.


    ¡°What¡¯s the situation now?¡± Yang Ye asked Ma Dongshu, who was standing off to the side.


    Ma Dongshu has been keeping watch here without descending the mountain. Pointing to the tunnel, hements, ¡°This tunnel can only be described as a work of extraordinary craftsmanship. It is tall enough for a man to walk upright and wide enough for five to walk side by side. The bricks used for the tunnel floor, walls, and ceiling are identical and made from a particr kind of y.¡± ¡°These are not the type of bricks used by poor families for building houses. I personally tested their hardness which is unusually high. Even swords find it hard to break them.¡±


    ¡°The general tried to cut one chunk with his hand, using internal strength for protection. But he only managed it after his hand was covered in blood.¡±


    Yang Ye chuckles upon hearing this. In his mind, he thinks: idiot.


    Showing a suitable degree of surprise, Xiaomai asks, ¡°Are there really bricks that hard in the world?¡±


    ¡°Yes,¡± Ma Dongshu points to the tunnel. ¡°This tunnel stretches from here all the way to the foot of the mountain, nearly ten miles. The entire tunnel is built with these kinds of bricks.¡±


    Yang Ye raises an eyebrow at the news, ¡°Doesn¡¯t seem like a job for humans.¡± ¡°Indeed, General Cen, Prince Duan, and I discussed and agreed. This tunnel must have been built for storing something¡­ that object¡­¡± Ma Dongshu hesitates.


    ¡°What?¡± questions Yang Ye.


    ¡°Have you ever heard about the ancient treasure of the previous dynasty, Your Highness?¡± Ma Dongshu asks.


    ¡°Of course,¡± Yang Ye tilts his head to look at Ma Dongshu, his eyes dancing with amusement.


    [Seeing votes increasing makes me so happy! Thanks, my little darlings. Another update tonight!]

 Chapter 351: Drag Away, Drag Away

    Chapter 351: Drag Away, Drag Away


    Trantor: 549690339 |


    ¡°Xiaomai, why bother arguing? Just drag her away.¡± Tong Tiehu frowned, ¡°The sun is getting harsher. Everyone is waiting.¡±


    ¡°Understood!¡± Qiao Xiaomai nodded and ground her teeth in secret.


    This shrewish woman keeps mentioning the heartbreaking affairs of Qiao Changshun, not knowing how much effort Xiaomai put into calming Qiao Dami, doesn¡¯t she?


    Damn it!


    Xiaomai rolled up her sleeves, stretched out her hand to grab the shoulder of the Sun Family matriarch, and dragged her toward the end of the line.


    The matriarch of the Sun Family suddenly screamed in rm.


    This isn¡¯t right, this isn¡¯t right at all! @@novelbin@@


    She came here today to unt and experience the fantastic feeling of superiority.


    But other than shocking everyone with her status at the very beginning, everything that followed felt off!


    Tong Tiehu and these lowly peasants didn¡¯t fawn over her.


    He ordered people to drag her away as simply and neatly as before.


    Tiehu didn¡¯t rush to marry Qiao Meipan either.


    No, this plot is all wrong!


    Her family¡¯s Xiaowu has made something of himself and be capable. How dare these people still treat her like this?


    At that thought, she struggled fiercely, shouting, ¡°Qiao Xiaomai, you dare to touch me now, aren¡¯t you afraid of General Cen Hong¡¯s punishment?!¡±


    ¡°I am removing the trash that obstructs the normal tax collection, why would he punish me for this?¡±


    ¡°Let go of me!¡± Seeing that Xiaomai waspletely fearless, the Sun Family matriarch panicked. She reached out to grab Xiaomai¡¯s hair.


    Seeing this, Tiehu¡¯s figure shed, instantly appearing next to Xiaomai, he grabbed the matriarch¡¯s shoulder and pushed her away.


    His pushing force wasn¡¯t strong, but the matriarch staggered backward several steps and fell onto her bottom.


    Her brand new clothes were stained with dust, and her neatlybed hair was somewhat messy, but she didn¡¯t care about these. She pped her thigh and wailed, ¡°Aiya, there¡¯s no justice! This shameless couple has dared to gang up on me, an old woman. There¡¯s no justice anymore!¡±


    She came here today to show off.


    She also hoped to enjoy some unexperienced privileges.


    But Tong Tiehu did not y along.


    The scolding tone, the serious expression, the swift and decisive handling was as familiar and sharp as ever.


    So familiar that she subconsciously gave the same reaction as before: She threw a tantrum.


    Although it was a subconscious reaction, on second thought, there was no better way to handle this.


    All she could do was bring up Cen Hong, but Xiaomai countered with Yang Ye.


    She knew that a prince outranked a general.


    Overbearing didn¡¯t work, she was unwilling to quietly join the line in disgrace. She had no other choice.


    ¡°Sun Family matriarch, what are you howling about? You¡¯re being unreasonable and you¡¯re still acting like you¡¯re in the right?¡± Xiaomai snorted, immediately looking towards Tiehu, ¡°Don¡¯t mind her. Continue what you were doing. Let her howl and see how long shests.¡±


    When dealing with someone like her, the more you argue, the more loudly she howls.


    If you genuinely ignore her, she¡¯ll quiet down.


    Tiehu also believed this, hearing her words, he nced at her, nodded lightly, turned around and continued what he was doing.


    The Sun Family matriarch was indeed left on her own.


    On the threshing floor where they were drying wheat, there was no shade from trees. It was nearing midday, and the sun was zing. Everyone was feeling drowsy from the heat. Seeing that Xiaomai and Tiehu had settled the matriarch and there was no more fun to watch, they began drooping again, one by one feeling dreary and listless.


    The Sun Family matriarch was truly left alone.


    The Sun Family matriarch closed her gaping mouth.


    Stunned.


    She couldn¡¯t throw a tantrum after all.


    Did she really need to join the line at the back in such a dismal manner?

 Chapter 352: Mother, I’m Lining Up for You!

    Chapter 352: Mother, I¡¯m Lining Up for You!


    Trantor: 549690339 |


    Just when the atmosphere tensed, Zhu Cuiying, who was in the line, stood up and enthusiastically called out, ¡°Mother,e this way! Changfu and I are almost there! Join us, and we¡¯ll move to the back of the line!¡±


    Zhu Cuiying sure knew how to seize the moment. She had no qualms about losing face either.


    When Sun Junyan hadn¡¯t been in trouble before, she used tovish care on him, the hope of Qiao Family, only for her to turn hostile as soon as Sun Junyan and the Sun Family were exiled from the vige. She immediately showed her true colors and seized Sun Junyan¡¯s wheat fields with Qiao Chang¡¯an and Qiao Changkang.


    And during this time, she never visited them once.


    So, when she heard Sun Mother haughtily snubbing people just now, she panicked.


    Sun Junyan had been driven out of the vige like a stray dog, and suddenly he was about to make aeback with the help of a benefactor?


    Oh dear, she would have to return the wheat fields she had seized!


    So seeing Sun Mother unable to withstand the blow from Qiao Xiaomai and Tong Tiehu, she quickly moved in to curry favor.


    With Qiao Xiaomai backed by His Highness Prince Wei, she needed to ingratiate herself with him.


    And with Sun Mother and Sun Junyan having the support of General Cen, she needed to ingratiate herself with them as well.


    Qiao Changfu, sharing the same thought as her, the couple stepped out of the line, hauled Sun Mother up, calling her ¡®mother¡¯ as never before. They invited her, ¡°Mother, join us. It¡¯s almost our turn.¡±


    ¡°You must have missed Meipan after being away from the vige for so long, right? She¡¯s at home, still the same, a spoiled youngdy.¡±


    Due to Qiao Qinghe¡¯s deep disappointment he gave up disciplining Qiao Meipan, therefore she remained just as she was before, doing only light chores at home without having to work in the fields.


    Not participating in field work was seen as being spoiled by farmers.


    Upon seeing this, Qiao Changkang and his wife Wu Yinfeng, hesitated for a while then stood up.


    Although their family now had a savings of six hundred taels of silver, they had also seized Sun Junyan¡¯snd back then. Now that Sun Junyan was prospering, they figured they had to make amends and return thend. @@novelbin@@


    ¡°Mother, rest by the side for a while, I¡¯ll line up for you. You can just rest,¡± Qiao Changkang handed his seated stool over to Sun Mother.


    There was no shade in the center of the threshing ground, but a few trees were nted at the edge for people to rest.


    Sun Mother¡¯s old face turned beet red, she red fiercely at these two couples, and sat tight on the ground, ¡°Where is my third son!¡±


    She couldn¡¯t make power y in front of Tong Tiehu, but she could, towards her own sons, right?


    Unfilial sons!


    They seized her Xiaowu¡¯snd; that issue would never be settled!


    ¡°The third son, he burned down Changsun¡¯s wheat. Also, it was he who caused Changsun to break his leg. A few days ago, he was sentenced by the county magistrate and is now in jail,¡± exined Qiao Changfu.


    Zhao Shufen was not there at the moment. As a woman, it was a bit difficult for her to bring the wheat to the threshing ground alone, hence she was runningte.


    ¡°What?!¡± Sun Mother stamped her foot upon hearing this.


    Of course, it was a foot stamping in shock.


    When Qiao Xiaomai came to inquire if she had burnt the wheat, she had been secretly rejoicing and apuding the unknown hero in her heart. Who would have known that this hero was her own third son!


    Indeed, Qiao Xiaomai was wicked, his heart was venomous, more so than the most poisonous snake and scorpion.


    Having hundreds of acres ofnd and mountains of gold and silver at home, he could still fuss over that tiny bit of wheat.


    And for that smidgen of wheat, he even had his own uncle sent to jail. He was ruthless and heartless, he deserved to be struck by lightning!


    She unconsciously overlooked the part that Qiao Chang¡¯an caused Changsun to break his leg. She had always thought that it was the retribution for Changsun and Zhuang Liihe¡¯s ingratitude. She hadn¡¯t realized it was man-made.

 Chapter 353 - 353 - Unfilial Son, I’ll Kill You!

    Chapter 353: ¨C Unfilial Son, I¡¯ll Kill You!


    Trantor: 549690339 |


    Ugh, her third son, he really did things that orded with her mindset.


    Just unlucky, these matters were actually uncovered by Qiao Xiaomai.


    Bad luck, such bad luck!


    For a moment, numerous thoughts crossed Sun Family¡¯s mind, but they ultimately settled on Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s malevolence. She red at Qiao Xiaomai sitting in the oxcart, her eyes bloodshot, wishing she could pounce on her and bite her.


    Zhu Cuiying understood her intentions; her eyes rolled a bit, then said, ¡°Mother, the reason Xiaomai knew about this is because my fourth brother snitched, it was my fourth brother who¡­¡±


    Before she finished speaking, she was harshly cut off by Wu Yinfeng, ¡°Zhu Cuiying! Shut your damn mouth! If you don¡¯t speak, no one will think you¡¯re mute!¡±


    ¡°Oh, you¡¯re being defiant now, huh? Having several hundred taels of silver has given you quite some confidence, your speech is different now.¡± Zhu Cuiying bellowed back immediately.


    In her heart, she naturally envied Qiao Changkang and his wife.


    600 taels!


    You¡¯d never have to worry about food and drink for the rest of your life!


    These past few days, sheined a lot in the house, asked Qiao Changfu why he didn¡¯t witness Qiao Changkang¡¯s misdeeds.


    Six hundred taels, oh, she so envied and pined for it that she almost wanted to roll on the ground.


    But no matter how much she envied or pined, she could only fantasize about it in her heart.


    However, seeing Sun Family misjudge the situation and me the wrong person, her crafty little mind bubbled up, ¡°Mother, it was my fourth brother who said my third brother hurt Changsun and broke his leg. If my fourth brother hadn¡¯t snitched, then the third brother wouldn¡¯t be in trouble.¡±


    ¡°Poor third brother is now in jail, and Zhaodi and Yindi, his two daughters, had to be sold to Changsun as maids, leaving Shufen and Xiaobao alone. It¡¯s hard, yo!¡±


    ¡°Exactly, all because of my fourth brother, who forsake his sibling for a few hundred taels of silver.¡± Qiao Changfu added sarcastically from the side.


    Qiao Changkang snorted, ¡°Eldest brother, if it were you, I bet you¡¯d run faster. Don¡¯t think I don¡¯t know what you¡¯re thinking, just jealous of the silver I got.¡±


    ¡°Out of consideration for our brotherhood, I¡¯ll give you ten taels for Dazhu¡¯s marriage. You don¡¯t need to repay me.¡±


    At his words, Qiao Changfu and Zhu Cuiying, who were about to counter-argue, choked with red faces.


    Ten taels of silver! @@novelbin@@


    Don¡¯t need to repay!


    Should they continue to be sarcastic and secretly envious, or ept this ten taels and keep their mouths shut?


    Ah, what a dilemma!


    Seeing the expression on this couple, Qiao Changkang couldn¡¯t help but sneer internally ¨C he knew this would be the case.


    Although giving away ten taels made his heart ache, it was worth it if it could make this couple shut up and stop incessantly nagging in front of Sun Family and Qiao Qinghe.


    Sun Family, for now, he had to count on her.


    Sun Family, who was standing aside and hearing the conversation between these two couples, pondered and understood the intricacies. She was so exasperated she nearly keeled over.


    It turned out that it wasn¡¯t Qiao Xiaomai who was too clever, but it was her own family who had leaked the secret!


    She red viciously at Qiao Changkang, lifting her hand to strike him, ¡°You unfilial son, you ungrateful bastard! I¡¯ll beat you to death!¡±


    Taking away Sun Junyan¡¯snd.


    Hurting her good son, Qiao Chang¡¯an.


    Even after getting the silver, he didn¡¯t know to honor her.


    Three charges ¨C extremely unfilial!


    The more she thought about it, the angrier she became ¨C she simply took off her shoe, grabbing the sole and beating Qiao Changkang viciously with it.


    Seeing this, Wu Yinfeng immediately felt distressed, ¡°Mother, don¡¯t hit him anymore, stop.¡±


    Hearing this, Sun Family promptly turned her fury onto Wu Yinfeng, ¡°It¡¯s all because you instigated it, Changkang was never like this before!¡±


    Then came the rain of shoe soles, driving Wu Yinfeng to flee with her head covered.


    This kind of beating used to be Zhuang Luhe¡¯s exclusive treatment. She never thought it would be her turn today!

 Chapter 354: Beat to Death

    Chapter 354: Beat to Death


    Trantor: 549690339 |


    Sun Family had sharpened her skills of beating daughter-inws on Zhuang Luhe, and now she was striking Wu Yinfeng swiftly and urately, aiming particrly at her face and head.


    For a while, the entire threshing floor was filled with Wu Yinfeng¡¯s screams mixed with the cursing of the Sun Family.


    Qiao Changkang was stomping his feet and trying to intervene, but he himself got hit quite a bit with the shoe.


    The vigers, who were usually dull and silent, suddenly seemed in high spirits when watching this scene.


    This kind of farce was totally revitalizing.


    Qiao Xiaomai sat on the ox cart, holding lotus leaves, and started shelling sunflower seeds from his pocket to snack on.


    This performance was far more aesthetically pleasingpared to Tong Sang¡¯s dull act of breakingrge stones bare-chested.


    Qiao Changshun, sitting on the ox cart behind her, shook his head and sighed at the sight.


    His disappointment in his brother Qiao Chang¡¯an hadpletely overwhelmed him. His sigh was for the absurdity of his family, unlike any others in the vige that had constant disputes and were caught up in all sorts of troubles all the time.


    A younger brother coveting his sister-inw and resorted to harming his older brother when his advances failed.


    A brother betraying another for silver.


    Look at all these shameful actions, they were disgraceful!


    Tong Tiehu watched this scene coldly, not stopping his work. Fight on, the more vicious the quarrel, the better, these people were just well-suited for internal strife.


    If others intervened, their hands would only get dirty.


    Thus, no one tried to intervene with various thoughts in mind. Wu Yinfeng was getting beaten so hard that she was almost unable to bear it. Ever since she got married and came here, she had only seen Zhuang Luhe getting beaten, she herself had never been put through this!


    In her desperation, she cried out, ¡°Mother, dad hasn¡¯te yet because eldest brother has taken over the cart at home!¡±


    ¡°During the time you were away, this couple had been angering dad non-stop, not respecting him as an elder at all!¡±


    Upon hearing this, Qiao Changkang immediately nodded and said, ¡°That¡¯s right, mother, you don¡¯t know how terribly eldest brother and his wife have angered dad. Even though we live in the same courtyard, they cook separately, store separate grains. The dozens of acres of wheat fields at home were all taken care of by dad alone. This couple did not even lift a finger to help!¡±


    At these words, Sun Family paused her beating, turning to re at Qiao Changfu and Zhu Cuiying.


    Qiao Changfu and Zhu Cuiying immediately began to protest their innocence, ¡°Oh, mother, this is really wronging us, Dazhu has always been helping.¡±


    ¡°Exactly, moreover, Changkang and his wife are just talking because they¡¯re not the ones involved, they didn¡¯t help either.¡±


    ¡°Unfilial children, all deserve to be beaten! You ungrateful wretches, I wasted all my years raising you. If I had known this would happen, I should have drowned each and every one of you in the cesspit!¡± With fury, Sun Family took off her other shoe, clutching a shoe in each hand. She thenunched a ferocious attack on Qiao Changkang and Wu Yinfeng. @@novelbin@@


    Qiao Changkang and Wu Yinfeng were beaten to a point where their hair was disheveled and clothes were torn, especially Wu Yinfeng, whose cheeks were swollen and a corner of her mouth was bleeding. Sun Family had aimed several blows at her face with the shoe.


    ¡°Mother, stop beating. Stop beating,¡± she wailed continuously.


    ¡°I¡¯ll kill you, you wretch! Changkang waspletely led astray by you!¡± Despite her pleas, Sun Family¡¯s shoe continued tond swiftly and fiercely.


    Seeing that she could not escape, Wu Yinfeng simply fell to the ground, sping her head with both hands and curling herself up.


    She didn¡¯t dare to run. Firstly, this was her own doing for betraying her brother, which was shameless.


    Secondly, considering Sun Junyan¡¯s status, she did not dare to resist.


    It¡¯s fine, she was going to be beaten sooner orter, so just endure it.


    Zhuang Luhe could bear it in the past, so could she now!


    With this thought in mind, Wu Yinfeng was beaten half to death by Sun Family.


    Qiao Changkang did not fare any better and the couple ended up on the ground in the same position, covered in dust and blood.


    Sun Family was tired from the beating and sat down panting heavily.


    After taking a brief rest, her menacing gaze once again turned to Qiao Changfu and Zhu Cuiying.


    She got up and charged at them with the shoes in her hands, this couple also deserved a beating.


    How dare they treat Qiao Qinghe this way? They were even worse than Qiao Changkang!

 Chapter 355:1 Won’t Let You Leave the Wheat Field!

    Chapter 355:1 Won¡¯t Let You Leave the Wheat Field!


    Trantor: 549690339 |


    They say husband and wife are as one, and Sun Family harbored grudges against Qiao Qinghe, but she never hated him.


    When they were driven out of the vige, Qiao Qinghe had packed up many things from their home for her and their daughter.


    Even though he never visited them, she didn¡¯t hate him, not one bit.


    She always knew Qiao Qinghe¡¯s temperament.


    Initially, she fell deeply in love with his special character, a mix of schr-like, righteous, and mncholic. And of course, his handsome face. So, she schemed to keep Qiao Qinghe in her bed.


    Throughout these years, except for the past few months, Qiao Qinghe had never spoken harshly to her, even when she made a mistake, he always reasoned with her.


    He was utterly unlike the brutal men in the vige who would casually beat their wives.


    She was willing to serve him.


    Even though Qiao Qinghe had hit her before, his ce in her heart remained unchanged. Hearing their unfilial son¡¯s words now, she couldn¡¯t help but feel angry, her shoe flew up in the air with astonishing momentum.


    Now it was Zhu Cuiying and Qiao Changfu¡¯s turn to run, ¡°Mother, don¡¯t hit us, don¡¯t hit us. I¡¯ll go and help dad with the cart right away.¡±


    ¡± Why didn¡¯t I drown you in a cesspit when you were a baby!¡±


    ¡°All, mom, hasn¡¯t Changsun not been helping dad either? His family is now spending money every day on hired help.¡± As he dodged Qiao Changfu, he shifted the me onto Qiao Changsun, ¡°Although Changsun has severed ties with you, he hasn¡¯t with dad!¡±


    On hearing this, Sun Family spit vehemently on the ground, ¡°Damn you! You know I¡¯ve severed all ties with him. I can¡¯t discipline him, so I will discipline you!¡±


    As she spoke, she raised her shoe and struck ferociously at Qiao Changfu, ¡°You ungrateful wretch, like a dog, even a well-fed dog would be grateful and obedient when given a bone.¡±


    ¡°The whole damn family, old and young alike, are ungrateful wretches! Why won¡¯t heaven strike you dead with lightning!¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re less than a beast, unable to control your wife or your daughter. You might as well die by falling head first!¡±


    Qiao Changsun, ¡°¡­¡±


    His heart ached so much. Why, from so far away, did her words still feel like knives stabbing into him?


    And, Sun Family was cursing so viciously, was she really hoping for his death?


    Qiao Xiaomai snorted coldly and said, ¡°Sun Family, spare us your veiled insults. I went to see my grandfather, and it was he who refused to ept help, not my dad. Stop ming un-filial acts on him.¡±


    Qiao Qinghe felt that the fact that the family had be like this was his responsibility.


    So, he rejected her offer to help and insisted on harvesting the wheat by himself.


    Being tired was better, physical exhaustion would prevent him from overthinking.


    When tired, the intense feelings of guilt and shame in his heart would lessen.


    But, now it had be Sun Family¡¯s excuse to attack Qiao Changsun.


    ¡°If my dad were unfilial, do you think he could have stood all the robbery at home for over a decade?¡± @@novelbin@@


    ¡°I¡¯m warning you, don¡¯t think that just because you¡¯ve clung to General Cen¡¯s thigh, you can strut around the vige. Keep spouting shit from your mouth, and see if I don¡¯t make you leave this harvest field!¡±


    Everyone present was stunned at her words.


    Including the wailing Zhu Cuiying and others.


    Honestly, Qiao Xiaomai had turned into a stone, cold and hard, never letting anyone in the old courtyard take advantage of her.


    But the stone was just a stone, and wouldn¡¯t hurt anyone as long as they didn¡¯t provoke it.


    Even if provoked, like Sun Family, in respect of filial duty, she would rather hurt herself thany a finger on Sun Family.


    But now she had made such a deration: to prevent Sun Family from leaving the harvest field!


    Oh god, was Qiao Xiaomai, this hard stone, about to cross another line and strike her own grandmother?!

 Chapter 356: Your Dog Has Arrived

    Chapter 356: Your Dog Has Arrived


    Trantor: 549690339 |


    Qiao Xiaomai was indeed ready to take action.


    Her heart had been burdened with a bundle of rage for the past two days because of Yang Ye¡¯swords.


    Now, the Sun family took the initiative to mess with her, first coveting Tong Sang and now cursing her whole family.


    Very well.


    This old hag willingly delivered herself to be a punching bag, just the right trigger to set her boiling fury ame.


    The matriarch of the Sun family held up the soles of her shoes, her aged face both pale and livid. She puffed up her chest, ¡°I dare you toy a finger on me!¡±


    ¡°I will just do it.¡± Qiao Xiaomai put down the lotus leaves in her hand and jumped from the ox cart.


    Her small face was as gloomy as still water, exuding an icy chill. She took long strides towards the matriarch of the Sun family.


    At this moment, Qiao Xiaomai had long awaited this.


    ¡°Xiaomai! Come back!¡± Qiao Changshun saw this and immediately grew worried. He hurriedly jumped from the ox-cart and disregarding his limp, tried to chase after Xiaomai. ¡°Stop! No violence!¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s there to be afraid of? We are already estranged. I¡¯m not afraid of her using me of being unfilial. Plus, if I break anything, I¡¯llpensate her with silver!¡± Qiao Xiaomai responded. Holding her hands together, the crisp sound of her knuckles cracking echoed in the air.


    The Sun family matron felt panicky as she was stared down by her chilling gaze and the ominous sound of her cracking knuckles, remembering the fear she felt earlier when she couldn¡¯t break free from her grip.


    Damn it, confucian filial piety couldn¡¯t restrain Qiao Xiaomai.


    And the gap in physical strength was too wide.


    ¡°Xiaowu is a favored man of General Cen!¡± she indignantly snapped, her neck stiffened.


    ¡°What does disciplining a mad woman, who has cursed my whole family and wished an early death upon my father, have to do with General Cen?¡± Qiao Xiaomai scoffed and quickened her pace, getting to the matron in a few steps.


    Qiao Changfu and Zhu Cuiying quickly retreated several yards.


    The Sun family matriarch waved the soles of her shoes, trying to keep her at bay as she kept announcing, ¡°I dare you to touch me!¡±


    Seeing this, Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s cold smile deepened. Just as she was about to raise her leg, a figure darted in front of her. Tong Sang appeared at her side, his hand on her shoulder, ¡°Don¡¯t be impulsive.¡±


    ¡°Hmm?¡± Qiao Xiaomai immediately looked at him.


    Seeing the usation and displeasure in her gaze, he said again, ¡°Someone ising.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Qiao Xiaomai raised an eyebrow. Someone?


    Suddenly, the sound of hoofbeats filled the air, apanied by the sporadic barking of dogs.


    She followed the sound.


    Five tall horses were galloping on the country road, each surrounded by four big ck dogs. Dust was stirred up wherever they passed, attracting quite the attention on the quiet country road.


    Upon recognizing the leader of the group, Qiao Xiaomai squinted her peach blossom eyes, why was Cen Hong here?


    The hooves of the horses got closer and louder, stirring up a lot ofmotion. Everyone in the wheat field was attracted.


    As they drew near, it was clear that it wasn¡¯t just Cen Hong, but among the five riders, Sun Junyan was also present.


    He was dressed in a teal schr¡¯s robe, riding atop the horse. His clothes and long hair fluttered in the wind, giving him a rather elegant demeanor.


    ¡°All show no substance.¡± Qiao Xiaomai passed her judgment.


    ¡°Hmm, a beast in human clothing.¡± Tong Sang nodded in agreement.


    Qiao Xiaomai immediately turned to the matron of the Sun family, ¡°Didn¡¯t you say you fed a dog? Your dog is here.¡±


    At this Sun matriarch was so angry that she eximed, ¡°You little wretch, now that General Cen is here, I¡¯d like to see how long you can keep your bravado!¡± @@novelbin@@


    ¡°So what if General Cen is here? Is he going to interfere in local affairs?¡± Qiao Xiaomai had a cold smile on her face, ¡°What I have with you is a civil dispute.¡±


    The words choked the Sun family matron.


    She, too, remembered why Cen Hong was demotedst time.


    At this point, Cen Hong and the other four riders arrived at the threshing field.


    The sounds of the horses¡¯ neighing, dogs barking, and the dust they kicked up made their presence impossible to ignore.

 Chapter 357 - 357 He is Disrespectful to the General!

    Chapter 357: He is Disrespectful to the General!


    Trantor: 549690339 |


    The horses were robust and shiny, eliciting envy.


    Therge dogs looked vicious, their fangs intimidating, demanded respect. @@novelbin@@


    ¡°Salutations, General Cen.¡± Tong Sang, Tong Tiehu, and a few of the bailiffs greeted him.


    Qiao Xiaomai also paid his respects.


    Seeing this, the vigers on site started to sporadically echo, ¡°Salutations, General Cen.¡±


    Cen Hong sat atop his horse, one hand wrapped around the whip, the other grasping the leash of the dog. His sharp gaze fell upon Qiao Xiaomai, lingering for quite some time before he barely nced at the few bailiffs from the corner of his eye and spoke, ¡°I am here to inspect the local tax collection.¡±


    Taxes in Daqi were collected level by level, moving upwards.


    From the vige to the county town, the county town retaining enough for their reserves before transferring to the prefecture city, the prefecture city holding enough before finally sending to the capital city.


    This was a time-consuming andplicated process, often escorted by the military personnel to ensure a smooth transfer.


    However, it was somewhat intriguing that Cen Hong, the General who guards Changyi Prefecture, personally came for this matter.


    Moreover, he specifically came to a small ce like Anping Vige. His purpose was clear for those with sight andmon sense.


    Qiao Xiaomai locked gaze with Cen Hong with indifferent eyes, no emotion on her face.


    Fearless.


    In Bailu Town, as long as she was in the right, Cen Hong would not dare cause trouble.


    As for Sun Junyan, huh.


    Just like these fourrge dogs, he¡¯s merely one of the dogs at Cen Hong¡¯s side. She didn¡¯t even bother sparing him the corner of her eyes.


    Sun Junyan felt the contempt of Qiao Xiaomai. His eyes immediately turned gloomy, and he couldn¡¯t help but tighten his grip on the reins, veins popping on his hands.


    Damn, that insolent girl!


    He would make this wretched woman pay for her ignorance and arrogance today!


    Just then, the Sun matron let out a sharp wail, taking a few quick steps before she fell to her knees before Cen Hong, ¡°Sir, I beg of you to take pity on this poor woman!¡±


    Upon hearing this, Sun Junyan¡¯s gaze fell on his mother. Cen Hong¡¯s sharply moved to her as well, ¡°What¡¯s the matter?!¡±


    The Sun matron discarded the shoes in her hand, daintily wiped at non-existent tears and began her tale of woe.


    She was happily clutching silver to pay the spring tax, because the journey was long, it wasn¡¯t easy for her as an old woman to walk under the scorching sun. She wanted to cut in line and pay early.


    But Tong Tiehu was not considerate of her predicament at all, insisting that she keep in line.


    ¡°So this poor woman mentioned your name, General Cen, hoping to get this done quickly. But Tong, the vige chief,manded his servants to drag me away, even ordered his grandson to hit me.¡±


    ¡°General Cen, this poor woman has suffered great injustice, I have notmitted murder or arson, I merely came to pay my spring tax. How much of everyone else¡¯s time would that have taken? Does the vige chief really need to be so harsh?¡±


    This is a world that values human rtionships, and she had General Cen as a backer. It¡¯s only natural to skip the line on the ount of General Cen¡¯s reputation.


    Therefore, making a fuss about such a trivial matter is a direct disrespect to Cen Hong, provoking him deliberately!


    Cen Hong, after listening to theint of the Sun matron, turned to Tong Tiehu with a stern gaze. He asked in a cold voice, ¡°Vige Chief Tong, is what the Sun matron said true?¡±


    Tong Tiehu respectfully answered, neither too humble nor too proud, ¡°Sir, she just arrived and was already trying to cut in line. All the vigers are waiting, and she has no authority, hence I did not allow her.¡±


    ¡°Then she mentioned your name, Sir. But how could a humble country woman have connections with you? I naturally did not believe her and ordered her to be expelled.¡±

 Chapter 358: Afraid of Being Bitten by a Dog

    Chapter 358: Afraid of Being Bitten by a Dog


    Trantor: 549690339 |


    Upon hearing these words, the color drained from Sun Family¡¯s face, and she eximed, ¡°Sir, he is deliberately opposing you because he doesn¡¯t respect you!¡±


    ¡°Sir, if you don¡¯t believe me, you can ask the others present.¡± Tong Tiehu continued.


    ¡°Other people? They are your vigers, naturally they¡¯d listen to you.¡± Cen Hong coldly huffed.


    Upon hearing this, Tong Tiehu maintained hisposure, ¡°Sir Cen, such usations are too heavy for someone as insignificant as me to bear.¡± @@novelbin@@


    ¡°Too heavy to bear? I see that you are, in essence, disrespecting me, looking to humiliate me.¡± Cen Hong snorted andshed his horsewhip towards Tong Tiehu!


    ¡°Grandfather!¡± Tong Sanrang gasped, moving as fast as lightning, he dashed forward and with a hair¡¯s breadth, grabbed Tong Tiehu by the arm and pulled him out of the whip¡¯s reach.


    ¡°Nice move!¡± Cen Hongughed as he let go of the dog leash, leapt from his horse and swung his whip towards Tong Sanrang, ¡°I¡¯ve been wanting to test your abilities, don¡¯t hold back!¡±


    Seeing this, Tong Sanrang slightly furrowed his brows, set Tong Tiehu aside at the threshing floor¡¯s border, and prepared to strike back.


    The reason for Cen Hong¡¯s visit this time was overtly to stir up trouble, no room for retreat.


    The two quickly went into a skirmishing dance, scaring the bystanders.


    Having never seen such a scene before, they froze in ce.


    Meanwhile, the big ck dog that Cen Hong had released, bared its teeth and started barking loudly.


    Once one dog started barking, the remaining three began joining in.


    In no time at all, the whole threshing floor was filled with the sound of barking dogs.


    Many families in the vige kept dogs too, but at that moment, seeing the four ferocious, half-human-sized ck dogs bearing their teeth, the vigers felt a chill run down their spine, slowly retreating, trying to get as far away from the center of events as possible.


    Initially, Sun Family¡¯sdy was already kneeling in front of Cen Hong¡¯s horse. With the big dog already out of control and barking right next to her, she found herself paralyzed with fear.


    Qiao Xiaomai stood next to Mrs. Sun, upon witnessing this, she furrowed her brows and slowly started to back away as well.


    She was not afraid of dogs, but with the big ck dog barking in front of her, its sharp teeth shining under the sunlight, it sent a chill down her spine.


    In this godforsaken ce, there¡¯d be no rabies vines if one were to get bitten by a dog, you might as well await death.


    ¡°Oh, dear niece, are you scared?¡± Sun Junyan, sitting on his horse, sneered at her reaction.


    Qiao Xiaomai sidelong nced at him, ¡°Hmm, yes, I¡¯m scared.¡±


    ¡°I wouldn¡¯t have guessed based on your audacious behavior of demanding to go to the Academy and constantly appealing to the County Government Office.¡± Sun Junyan remarked sarcastically.


    ¡°No choice. Surrounded by five dogs, I¡¯m scared of being bitten.¡± replied Qiao Xiaomai, her voice frosty.


    Five dogs?


    After a moment, Sun Junyan furrowed his brows, then quickly realized he was being described as a dog by her, his face darkening with rage.


    ¡°Twenty-eight!¡± He angrily flicked his whip.


    The initially unruly big ck dog immediately turned its head towards Qiao Xiaomai upon hearing the number.


    Its front paws dug at the ground, with its head lowered, it started to growl.


    Qiao Xiaomai frowned and reached into her bosom.


    Qiao Changshun, who was limping behind Qiao Xiaomai, saw this and immediately copsed onto the ground, calling out anxiously, ¡°Xiaomai, run, run quickly!¡±


    As soon as he spoke, Sun Junyan snapped his whip once more, yelling, ¡°Twenty-eight!¡±


    Upon hearing this number, the big ck dog immediately pounced towards Qiao Xiaomai, its mouth wide open.


    ¡°Xiaomai!¡± Qiao Changshun shouted desperately.

 Chapter 391: Content of the Secret Decree

    Chapter 391: Content of the Secret Decree


    Upon hearing this, Valley Chief remained calm andposed, saying leisurely, ¡°Your Highness Prince Duan, His Majesty the retired emperor dered twenty years ago that no matter what circumstances ensue, all matters rting to Anping Vige and the Tong Family are to be handled by him.¡±


    ¡°The retired emperor has not left the Capital City for over ten years. But now, for the sake of the Tong Family, he is about to make a move. Are you really going to contradict his Majesty¡¯s explicit orders?¡±


    The retired emperor, who has not left the Capital City for over a decade, was about to make a move on behalf of the Tong Family. The importance of the Tong Family was self-evident to anyone with the slightest discernment.


    And besides, it was clear that the retired emperor¡¯s words meant there was a rtion between the Tong Family and the treasure.


    So why not question the Tong Family directly instead of digging up the vige?


    Yang Wang failed to perceive the subtlety in Valley Chief¡¯s words. Gritting his teeth, he argued, ¡°What if the treasure cannot truly be redeemed? Who will bear the great losses then?¡±


    ¡°I assure you, my only aim is to unearth the treasure by digging in the vige. I swear not to disturb anything else. As Grandpa Emperor has instructed specifically about the Tong family, I will absolutely refrain from disturbing them. I will only dig up the vige.¡±


    Seeing this, Valley Chief sighed internally that Yang Wang was as uncarvable as a block of rotten wood. Turning to Yang Ye he said, ¡°Your Highness Prince Wei, His Majesty presented you with a secret decree a while ago, instructing you to open it when situations go out of control. In my view, that moment has arrived.¡±


    Yang Ye was silent.


    He pped his forehead in frustration; he had been flooded with so many messages that he hadpletely forgotten about that royal decree.


    Initially, he had agreed to dig up the vige after hearing Yang Wang¡¯s reasons.


    But now Valley Chief brought forth his grandpa emperor¡¯s instruction from twenty years ago, and naturally, he must heed his grandpa emperor¡¯s words.


    His grandpa emperor knew of the problems with the Tong Family and had found this batch of treasure twenty years ago. How wise!


    Must listen to grandpa emperor!


    With this thought in mind, he turned to his guard andmanded, ¡°Go retrieve that secret royal decree.¡±


    He brought the decree with him during his stay in Anping Vige, anticipating Cen Hong¡¯s reckless behavior, it coulde in handy.


    Now, it was indeed useful!


    However, he was surprised that Valley Chief was aware of the secret decree. It appeared that Valley Chief truly was a trusted aide to his grandpa emperor and his own father, the current emperor.


    While thinking along these lines, Yang Ye looked at the Valley Chief, his thoughts straying a bit.


    Whilst Yang Wang and Cen Hong exchanged nces, a sense of foreboding welled up in their hearts.


    A secret decree?


    His majesty the Emperor had secretly sent Yang Ye a decree?


    When did that happen?


    And why should it be opened when the situation is out of control? What does that mean?


    Taking a deep breath, Yang Wang looked at Yang Ye, ¡°Fourth Brother, what secret decree are you talking about and when did this happen?¡±


    ¡°Remember when the Vige Chief of Tong turned sixty and General Cen forced Aunt Qiao to recognize the wily woman from the Sun family? It was then.¡±


    Cen Hong was silent.


    A secret decree followed his demotion?


    Yang Wang was naturally shocked. However, he had more concerns than Cen Hong, ¡°Why was it given to you?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯d have to ask the emperor about that.¡± Yang Ye gave a dismissive raise of an eyebrow.


    He was confused at the time too.


    A mere Bailu Town, what could possibly go out of control with Valley Chief there?


    It seemed now that he was naive. This decree was meant for this exact day and was targeted at Yang Wang and Cen Hong.


    With this realization, his heavy thoughts lightened a bit.


    Good. It seemed his father, the emperor, also held many grievances against Yang Wang and Cen Hong.


    The displeasure of the emperor.


    Yang Wang and Cen Hong had thought of this too. The duo exchanged nces again, their faces all gloomy and somber.


    Shortly after, Yang Ye¡¯s guard brought the secret decree. The seal on the decree was intact. Yang Ye had never opened it before. He showed everyone the intact seal, broke it, and opened the secret decree.


    Then he froze.


    With a twitch of his mouth, he turned the decree around to face everyone else.


    Everyone looked at it, only to see a simple single line written: Whoever messes with the Tong Family messes with me; bear the consequences yourself.

 Chapter 392 - 392 Where is the Treasure?

    Chapter 392: Where is the Treasure?


    ¡°Harming the Tong Family is equivalent to harming me, bear the consequences.¡±


    The words were domineering.


    Bear the consequences, these four simple words represent countless possibilities.


    None of those present were illiterate; they could all read these eleven words.


    Qiao Xiaomai stared at the powerful calligraphy, her face turning nk.


    The shocking news came one after another, umting until she was nearly overwhelmed.


    Originally, she was already panicked and confused about what to do, and now the decree made it out like harming the Tong Family was equivalent to harming Emperor Yongan.


    What the hell is this plot twist?


    The convoluted storyline seemed to twist and turn as if it had nine curves and eighteen bends, couldn¡¯t it be a little simpler?


    There must be some secret behind all this!


    The Tong Family intended to rebel!


    What is this decree all about?


    Not only was Qiao Xiaomai thinking like this, Yang Wang and Cen Hong also looked as though they had swallowed a dead mouse; their already somber faces were turning even more horrid.


    What the hell does this mean?


    Considering his previous actions against Tong Sang, Cen Hong subconsciously clenched his hands, the sharp nails piercing his palms. Unaware of the pain, he wondered how could Emperor Yongan have such a connection with the vige chief of a small mountain vige?!


    Damn!


    What a trap!


    Originally thought they were picking a soft persimmon, instead they had kicked an iron board!


    Tong Sang and Tong Tiehu also looked dumbfounded.


    They were the ones closest to the line of death, had one foot already stepped into the underworld, but suddenly a decree was issued, not only pulling their feet out of the underworld, but also dressing them in iron cloth armor.


    No, it¡¯s more than iron cloth armor, it¡¯s the imperial halo.


    The Tong Family has always been secretly preparing to rebel, and now, their status is finally the same as that of the Emperor¡­


    Should they be happy or should they cry?


    ¡± Why is there such a decree?¡± Yang Wang asked with a somber face.


    ¡°That would be a question for the Tong Family. ¡± Yang Ye looked at Tong Tiehu and Tong Sang as he said this, his eyebrows furrowed. He had previously nned to take down the Tong Family, but with this decree, he felt somewhat pped in the face.


    ¡°Vige Chief Tong, do you know my father?¡± Yang Ye spected the possibilities.


    Tong Tiehu shook his head with aplicated expression on his face, saying, ¡°I don¡¯t know.¡±


    ¡°Then why would my father issue such a decree?¡± Yang Ye continued to ask.


    ¡°My lord, our shock and confusion is no less than yours.¡±


    ¡°Then tell me, where has the treasure in the underground vault gone?¡± Yang Ye asked further.


    With this decree, he had confirmed that the Tong Family had something to do with the treasure. Since that¡¯s the case, he might as well ask openly.


    Tong Tiehu shook his head, ¡°My lord, I don¡¯t know.¡±


    Could he say that the treasure had gone into Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s space?


    Could he say it?


    He couldn¡¯t say it.


    Qiao Xiaomai had gone to such lengths for his grandson, how could he expose her?


    He must keep this a secret.


    At this moment, Yang Wang finally came to his senses. He had set his sights on the Tong Family before, but due tock of evidence, he hadn¡¯t nned to torture them for confessions, just wanted to dig for the treasure.


    But now he knew the instructions of the previous emperor.


    He also knew the content of Emperor Yongan¡¯s secret edict.


    The Tong Family absolutely had a connection to the treasure.


    On thinking of this, his face grew darker.


    Damn, he was fooled, and only realized it now!


    Don¡¯t bother digging in the vige, just torture this father and son duo!


    ¡°You don¡¯t know? Both the former Emperor and the current Emperor have explicitly instructed to protect the Tong Family. What are you afraid of? The people of Shuifeng Prefecture in the west are suffering, hand over the treasure quickly.¡±

 Chapter 361: I’m Here to Cure Your Rabies

    Chapter 361: I¡¯m Here to Cure Your Rabies


    Trantor: 549690339 |


    ¡°Stay right there and don¡¯t move, I¡¯m going to get Doctor Wu!¡± Tong Sang stomped his foot in frustration. In the next moment, he had disappeared.


    At this time, Yang Ye, who had been racing on a steed, arrived.


    Following behind him were Yang Wang and more than ten guards.


    Yang Ye jumped down from his horse and rushed over to Qiao Xiaomai to examine the wound on her arm, ¡°How is it?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s fine, Brother San is getting Doctor Wu. However, I suspect that General Cen¡¯s whip may contain the Rabies Virus. I would like to ask for your help.¡± Qiao Xiaomai squinted her peach blossom eyes and looked over at Cen Hongping, whose face had darkened after being pped by Tong Sang.


    Cen Hongping snorted, ¡°Indeed, before I arrived at the threshing ground, I used my whip to tease these dogs. It¡¯s true that it got their saliva on it.¡±


    Upon hearing this, the formerly calm Qiao Xiaomai¡¯splexion changed instantly.


    Cen Hongping hadn¡¯t been at the threshing ground long. If the whip really was infected with the Rabies Virus, then it¡¯s possible the virus was still alive in this short span of time.


    Would she possibly get infected under such circumstances?!


    Yang Ye¡¯s face changed as well, ¡°Cen Hongping, you¡¯ve gone too far!¡±


    As he addressed Yang Ye, Cen Hongping responded with dignity, ¡°Your Highness, this Tong Sang is armed with a sharp sword and is highly skilled in martial arts. His presence in this remote ce is indeed suspicious. Then there¡¯s Qiao Xiaomai, a simple vige girl with Divine Power, this is extremely odd.¡±


    ¡°Both of them have obviously resisted arrest, that¡¯s why I believe it¡¯s necessary to bring them back to the County Government Office for interrogation using unconventional methods.¡±


    ¡°Nonsense! Their situation is clear to me, and I did not find them suspicious. As a protector of the country, where do you get off being so overly cautious?!¡± Yang Ye was furious.


    ¡°Resisting arrest? From my perspective, it¡¯s you who took the initiative to raise your whip towards Miss Qiao! She stayed motionless, in a ce she couldn¡¯t escape! You attacked innocent civilians and brought military dogs with the Rabies Virus out of the Military Camp. I see that you are clearly retaliating!¡±


    ¡°As a national guard, considering your present conduct, who are you protecting?! You are protecting yourself! You¡¯re using the banner of maintaining peace to protect your own private interests! When I go back, I will report to the emperor, wait and see!¡±


    ¡°Hey hey, Fourth Brother, don¡¯t get angry yet.¡± Seeing the unprecedented cold sternness on Yang Ye¡¯s handsome face, Yang Wang quickly stepped in to mediate, ¡°The immediate concern is Miss Qiao¡¯s injury.¡±


    ¡°Rabies, I¡¯ve read medical texts about this disease, and I know how to treat it.¡± Yang Wang said as he looked at Cen Hongping. His face also turned stern, taking on the majestic aura he usually had when dealing with officials, ¡°Which dog did you tease with your whip?¡±


    ¡°Your Highness, only dog number twenty-eight¡¯s saliva is on this whip.¡± Cen Hongping pointed to the big ck dog that had been nailed to the ground by Tong Sang¡¯s sword.


    ¡°Cut open this dog¡¯s head and apply the brain to Miss Qiao¡¯s wound.¡± Yang Wang ordered.


    Seeing Cen Hongping just standing there, Yang Wang¡¯s face darkened, ¡°What, General Cen, do you think you¡¯re too good to follow my orders?¡±


    ¡°No, Your Highness, I¡¯ll do as youmand.¡± Cen Hongping apologized, he pulled a dagger from his waist and walked towards therge ck dog named Twenty-eight.


    ¡°Third Brother, how did you know of this cure?¡± Yang Ye looked at Yang Wang with suspicion. @@novelbin@@


    ¡°You know I love reading misceneous books, I learned it from a medical book.¡± Yang Wang waved his hand, his face quickly recovering its lightness, ¡°Alt, right, we also need someone to suck out the blood from the wound, then cauterize it to kill the virus.¡±

 Chapter 362: Seek Justice First

    Chapter 362: Seek Justice First


    Trantor: 549690339 |


    Upon hearing the information, Yang Ye knitted his long eyebrows together instantly.


    But Qiao Xiaomaiughed lightly and grinned, ¡°No need to trouble Prince, I¡¯ll simply ask the vige doctor for treatment.¡±


    Burn the wound with fire?


    Apply the brain of a rabid dog onto the wound?


    Haha.


    That¡¯s crazy!


    Even if these two methods worked, she wouldn¡¯t obediently listen to Yang Wang¡¯s idea.


    She would rather go back and smear the wound with Tong Sang¡¯s saliva!


    ¡°Miss Qiao, don¡¯t be afraid. It¡¯s painful to burn the wound with fire, but it¡¯s a desperate measure. It¡¯s better than contracting rabies. And the second method is fighting poison with poison; it¡¯s genuine and effective. You¡¯ll know once you give it a try,¡±


    Yang Wang put on a gentle appearance, his tone as mild as water.


    ¡°Miss Qiao, maybe¡­perhaps you can try?¡± Yang Ye chimed in.


    At the moment saying anything else is irrelevant, first treat the rabies


    ¡°No need.¡± Qiao Xiaomai said with a cold expression.


    ¡°It¡¯s not the time to be willful!¡± Yang Ye drew in a breath, urgency visible on his handsome face, ¡°Whatever happens, we can attend to itter, alright?¡±


    ¡°I think we should wait for what Doctor Wu has to say,¡± Qiao Xiaomai said, looking in the direction where Tong Sang had gone.


    The threshing floor was at the entrance of the vige, Anping Vige was extensive, but because of physician Wu¡¯s urgency, he reached his fastest speed in under a minute. He came back with Doctor Wu.


    Doctor Wu felt lightheaded after unexpectedly experiencing Tong Sang¡¯s swift movements. After shaking his head and regaining bnce, he looked at Qiao Xiaomai.


    ¡°Xiaomai, you were bitten by a dog?¡± he asked with a frown.


    ¡°It seems so, there were quite a few dogs today,¡± Xiaomai replied.


    ¡°Which dog bit you? Burn its fur to ashes and apply it to the wound,¡± Doctor Wu suggested.


    Qiao Xiaomai ¡°¡­¡±


    This method sounded even more unreliable than Yang Wang¡¯s.


    ¡°Anyway, try both methods!¡± Yang Ye waved his hand and looked at Cen Hong who was digging into the dog¡¯s brain.


    ¡°What methods?¡± Tong Sang asked, frowning.


    Qiao Xiaomai nodded towards Cen Hong and then repeated Yang Wang¡¯s prescribed treatments.


    Hearing her exnation, Tong Sang immediately tried to step towards the ck Ridge


    Qiao Xiaomai held him back, ¡°Don¡¯t rush.¡±


    She looked at Doctor Wu and asked, ¡°When does the disease act up?¡±


    ¡°It varies from person to person. It can be as soon as ten days or take several decades to show up,¡± Doctor Wu said.


    ¡°Given that, Prince, I have a grievance to voice,¡± Qiao Xiaomai turned to Yang Ye once again, ¡°Prince, I¡¯m a simple and honest vige girl, I don¡¯t know how I¡¯ve be a scheming person that General Cen has to deal with in such a vile manner.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m asking the prince to seek justice for me.¡±


    Cen Hong snorted, but his hands did not stop. He said, ¡°A young man from a small vige with extraordinary martial arts skills and a vige girl with unusual strength, I have done nothing wrong in prioritizing Daqi¡¯s security. Better to kill wrongly than to let someone escape!¡± @@novelbin@@


    ¡°Enough, enough. General Cen is also thinking for Daqi. Fourth Brother, I think we shouldpromise on this matter and just let it go,¡± Yang Wang interrupted to mediate.


    ¡°It¡¯s not eptable. He took a rabid dog out of the military camp and came to the vige, randomly using people. If he continues to act recklessly, doesn¡¯t that mean he can use anyone of conspiracy in the future?¡±


    ¡°Using their position to impose arbitrary usation on others, such actions must be severely punished.¡± Yang Ye¡¯s brows were locked together tightly, showing no signs ofpromise.


    ¡°I suggest Miss Qiao goes home with the dog for treatment, and third brother, you stop hunting too. Come back to town with me, I¡¯ll report this matter truthfully to the emperor,¡± he suggested.


    Yang Wang ¡°¡­¡±


    He hade to y the hero and save the damsel in distress today, that was his focal point!

 Chapter 395: Let’s Talk About Gu Yu

    Chapter 395: Let¡¯s Talk About Gu Yu


    The moment Director Gu spoke these words, both Yang Wang and Cen Hong felt like they were going to explode with frustration, unable to utter the excessive words on their minds.


    Their faces shifted back and forth between pale and green, before finally setting on a sickly hue.


    Infuriating, absolutely infuriating.


    They had been lingering in Bailu Town for so long, yet they didn¡¯t apprehend Qiao Xiaomai, nor did they find the treasure.


    Furthermore, Cen Hong had been reported by Yang Ye in front of the emperor.


    This trip to Bailu Town, they gained absolutely no benefit!


    ¡°What should we do now?¡± Yang Ye looked towards Director Gu, seeking advice.


    ¡°Leave half of these soldiers behind to guard Anping Vige, the remaining will return to the camp.¡± Director Gu said, looking towards the silent county chief, ¡°County Chief Dai, you can lead these soldiers back.¡±


    County Chief Dai was also dazed by the session of shocking news.


    The Tong Family are the descendants of Gu Yu?


    And they¡¯ve been hiding treasure?


    My God¡­


    My God!


    Remembering the Prime Minister back in the Capital City, County Chief Dai¡¯s heart skipped a beat. The Prime Minister had instructed him to care for the Tong family, only mentioning that the Tongs were his distant rtives.


    Being rted to the descendants of Gu Yu¡­


    That¡¯s terrifying.


    Could this matter implicate the Prime Minister?


    However, looking at the Grand Emperor¡¯s attitude towards the Tong Family, would there be any problems even if it did involve him?


    Moving against the Tong Family would be equivalent to moving against me.


    Could these words be said casually?


    His brain in chaos, the bewildered County Chief Dai led away the five thousand soldiers.


    The remaining five thousand soldiers, as per Director Gu¡¯s orders, thoroughly encircled Anping Vige.


    The sudden encirclement of the vige was a major event, causing the vigers to panic.


    Tong Tiehu quickly rang the bell to exin to the vigers: A secret tunnel appeared in the mountains, which might mean the emergence of a treasure. Therefore, the court sent people to look for the treasure. Everyone should not panic, and continue with their tasks.


    Due to the morning incident involving Yang Wang and Cen Hong¡¯s inquiries, many vigers were aware of the existence of the secret tunnel.


    Hearing Tong Tiehu¡¯s words, they were able to calm their frantic hearts.


    It was normal for the court to send people over when treasure was discovered.


    The vigers dispersed quickly. Yang Ye turned to Qiao Xiaomai, ¡°Miss Qiao, let¡¯s go. Let¡¯s continue with our lunch at your home.¡±


    It was such a mood killer to have their meal interrupted and to be dyed for so long.


    ¡°Chief Tong, Third Son, you twoe as well.¡± Yang Ye called the grandfather-grandson duo.


    Yang Wang, with a dark face, also followed along.


    The treasure was gone, but the matter wasn¡¯t over yet.


    Seeing Yang Wang follow, Cen Hong naturally wanted to do the same. Seeing this, Yang Ye quickly extended his arm to stop him, ¡°General Cen, Miss Qiao does not wee you, the wound on her arm hasn¡¯t healed yet.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Cen Hong¡¯s face turned even darker. He gritted his teeth and said, ¡°Then I¡¯ll return to the town first.¡±


    Yang Ye grinned, ¡°Go back. Do not loiter around Anping Vige. Just wait in the town for the imperial edict. As for the matter of you intentionally bringing a rabid dog out of the military camp and causing harm to themon people, it¡¯s not over yet.¡±


    Cen Hong was so angry that he almost shattered his teeth, ¡°Then I¡¯ll go first.¡±


    Yang Ye just grunted in response.


    Watching Cen Hong¡¯s retreating figure, Yang Ye¡¯s sneer faded. He turned to Qiao Xiaomai and said, ¡°Miss Qiao, shall we go?¡±


    ¡°Please, Prince.¡± Qiao Xiaomai stepped aside.


    Yang Ye chuckled and walked in front.


    Upon reaching the Qiao Family, Yang Ye didn¡¯t have Qiao Xiaomai add more dishes. Instead, they all sat down to continue lunch.


    Throughout the meal, Yang Wang maintained his somber expression, still holding onto that brick in his hand.


    Yang Ye took a cold look at him, then shifted his gaze to Tong Tiehu, ¡°Chief Tong, why don¡¯t you tell us about Prince Pingnan¡¯s affair? After all, he turned out to be Grandpa Emperor¡¯s sworn brother. This matter seems rather mysterious.¡±


    [My cute readers, please cast a rmendation vote¡¯ xoxo~ ]

 Chapter 396: The Reason Why the Retired Emperor Could Find You (Extra Update)

    Chapter 396: The Reason Why the Retired Emperor Could Find You (Extra Update)


    Tong Tiehu let out a bitterugh upon hearing this, ¡°In response to Your Highness, I know very little about my father.¡±


    ¡°Oh?¡± Yang Ye looked puzzled.


    ¡°I was sent away by my father when I was six years old, along with my mother. The woman whoter followed my father into battle was my aunt.¡±


    Yang Ye blinked his long eyshes, an expression of surprise appearing on his handsome face.


    ¡°Later, when my father died, my aunt appeared here with the treasure. She sent someone to fetch me. Upon hearing news of my father¡¯s death, my mother couldn¡¯t bear it, and she passed away. I came to Anping Vige at just ten years old.¡±


    ¡°My aunt¡­ seemed to age more than ten years all of a sudden. Her energy and spirit seemed to have entirely vanished. She lives in the mountains and doesn¡¯t see anyone. She only told me that my father was gone, nothing more.¡±


    ¡°Thus, Your Highness, I truly do not know about the things you are asking regarding my father.¡±


    ¡°I also do not know how the secret tunnel was built.¡±


    Yang Ye ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°Is the relief effort her idea?¡± The head of the Valley asked.


    ¡°Yes, my aunt said that the treasures, taken from the people, should be used for them. She used the followers my father left behind to establish Tingfeng Pavilion. Whenever Daqi suffers a disaster, Tingfeng Pavilion will fund the relief effort,¡± Tong Tiehu replied.


    The head of the Valley fell silent, stroking his beard, his expression somewhat mncholic.


    ¡°Actually, the reason the reigning Emperor was able to track down your Tong family was precisely because of your relief work.¡±


    A mysterious force was always doing such good deeds, naturally, the reigning Emperor and Emperor Yongan would investigate.


    Following one thread led them here.


    Tong Tiehu ¡°¡­¡±


    Tong Sang ¡°¡­¡±


    He hadplicated feelings.


    Should heugh or cry?


    He originally intended to relieve the people¡¯s suffering but ended up leading the Emperor here.


    Look, that¡¯s why the Emperor doesn¡¯t interfere with the Tong family. Besides, whenever disasters ur, the Tong family will distribute silver. It¡¯s convenient and easy.


    ¡°But the treasure is now gone,¡± Yang Wang said coldly.


    ¡°Your Highness, I genuinely have no idea about this,¡± Tong Tiehu said earnestly.


    Qiao Xiaomai, who was sitting on the side, also had aplicated expression.


    The treasure was in her space.


    The court wanted to use the treasure for disaster relief. Oh gosh, what should she do!


    How should she get rid of this ticking time bomb!


    She frowned, asking, ¡°Prince Wei, why is the National Treasury¡­ so empty?¡±


    How could the National Treasury be empty when the reigning Emperor and Emperor Yongan were so wise and heroic, managing Daqi so systematically?


    ¡°Simply put: ie was too low. Daqi is expansive with both natural and man-made disasters recurring over the years. Floods, droughts, locust gues, you name it, we¡¯ve seen it all.¡± Speaking of this, Yang Ye suddenly lost his appetite.


    He sighed, put down his chopsticks, and started sipping some fruit soup.


    ¡°Relief work aside, money also had to be allocated to build roads everywhere, and to support the armed forces. In short, ces where money is needed are numerous. Yet, the tax collected is too little. Daqi isn¡¯t like the previous dynasties, with all kinds of misceneous taxes. Daqi has fewer taxes, and on top of that, officials and aristocratic families are even exempted.¡±


    ¡°With the ie being little and expenses being high, the Treasury ended up empty.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai made a sound of understanding.


    Even the Tong family, being a minor official, managed to exempt a tenth of their tax.


    If the smallest official could exempt a tenth, the higher-ranking officials and nobles could exempt even more.


    Goes without saying, the Treasury will end up empty.


    She pursed her lips, feeling that the vast treasure house in her space seemed more like a ticking time bomb.


    The people were suffering, and she had stored this batch of treasure away.


    Sigh!


    How should she get rid of it?

 Chapter 397: Can I Donate Silver? (Extra Update)

    Chapter 397: Can I Donate Silver? (Extra Update)


    Even though Qiao Xiaomai has stored this batch of treasure in her own space, she never had an intention of iming it for herself.


    The other day, her words to evade Ma Dongshu were not mere pretense. These objects were stained with blood, and since they were extracted from themon people, they should naturally go back to themon people.


    Her brain was spinning rapidly. After a moment, Qiao Xiaomai suggested, ¡°Since the National Treasury is empty, could we encourage high officials, aristocrats, and wealthy merchants to donate some silver?¡±


    Donations were a verymon practice in her past life. She used to donate frequently.


    No matter how small, the umtion could solve problems.


    At her words, an incredulous look appeared on Yang Ye¡¯s handsome face. ¡°Donate silver?¡±


    ¡°Yes. Regardless if they are high officials, noblemen ormon people, the reason why Daqi can have these peaceful days is because of the Emperor¡¯s protection. Now that His Majesty has troubles, it¡¯s normal for us, as his subjects, to shell out some silver.¡±


    Upon hearing this exnation, Yang Ye couldn¡¯t even drink his fruit soup anymore. He put down his spoon, picked up his fan and waved it, ¡°Getting silver out of those people¡¯s pockets would be difficult.¡±


    Why are those dignitaries tax-free?


    It¡¯s because his father, the Emperor, wanted to stabilize them.


    When the Yang family first entered the Capital City, they appeased the Aristocratic Families with various concessions. So, those Aristocratic Families didn¡¯t make trouble and supported his grandpa to be the Emperor.


    The system set up at that time has continued until now.


    The Court has always been giving concessions to the Aristocratic Families. Now, if the Court wants to ask these people for money, it would be strange if they could get it.


    ¡°Um¡­ Then, give whatever you can. Donate food, if you have it, donate clothes if you have them, donate bricks if you have them. As long as the people in Shuifeng Prefecture can use them, it shows goodwill.¡±


    If even these things can¡¯t be solicited, then this Emperor Yong¡¯an is somehow¡­


    Jeez, isn¡¯t it too powerless?


    As the Emperor, he should at least have this ability, right?


    ¡°That¡¯s a good idea.¡± Upon hearing Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s words, Yang Ye pondered for a moment then couldn¡¯t help but pat the table.


    Not asking for silver, but items, this goal should be achievable.


    ¡°I¡¯m going towrite a letter to the Emperor now!¡± Yang Ye didn¡¯t bother to finish his meal.


    The Emperor must be in a panic over the disaster situation in Shuifeng Prefecture. This idea needs to be urgently delivered to Capital City.


    The pen, ink, paper, and inkstone used to write thest letter about Cen Hong were still there, and Qiao Xiaomai immediately brought them out.


    After quickly writing the message, Yang Ye passed it to his guard to send it to the Capital City at the fastest speed.


    After dealing with this matter, he couldn¡¯t help but sigh, ¡°I really want to go to Shuifeng Prefecture and take a look.¡±


    He had just dealt with a snow disaster and had some experience in this area.


    ¡°His Majesty must have a suitable candidate in mind, Your Highness need not worry,¡± the Director quickly replied.


    ¡°How could I not worry?¡± Yang Ye frowned.


    Daqi belongs to the Yang family. This family of his seems to be sore here and there. The previous dynasty had only been overthrown fifty years ago and the power of the Aristocratic Families has not been weakened. How could he not worry about it?


    Seeing this, the Director couldn¡¯t help butugh. ¡°The prince could ask the Emperor for a position to do a job.¡±


    ¡°No, it¡¯s fine this way.¡± Yang Ye immediately shook his head.


    He was aid-back prince and he remembered this all the time.


    Yang Wang was sitting by. Seeing Yang Ye and the Director discussing disaster relief, his face darkened even more.


    Although the disaster was important, it was quite far from Shuifeng Prefecture and beyond their reach.


    The topic should be the treasure right now!


    With this batch of treasure, Emperor Yong¡¯an would be able to stand tall. There was no need to ask the Aristocratic Families for things like beggars!


    ¡°I think we should dig up Sister Qiao¡¯s house and see what happened with this brick. I must know,¡± he stated.

 Chapter 366: Sneak a Lick

    Chapter 366: Sneak a Lick


    Trantor: 549690339 |


    Tong Sang carefully rolled up the sleeve of Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s arm, washed the wound with the Spiritual Spring water, and then applied his saliva to the wound.


    The wound was about a finger long, thin, and continuously seeping with threads of blood.


    ording to past experiences, once saliva was applied to the wound, it would scab over in a short time.


    Both of them stared at the thin bloody slit, without blinking.


    After a moment, Tong Sang spoke, ¡°It¡¯s not healing.¡±


    ¡°It must be because there¡¯s not enough saliva. Spit out some more.¡± Qiao Xiaomai extended her hand again.


    Tong Sang did as she suggested, and spat on it again.


    Still, it had no effect.


    ¡°There must not be enough. Try again,¡± Qiao Xiaomai extended her hand once more.


    A momentter, the wound continued to bleed.


    Tong Sang broke the silence before Qiao Xiaomai could, his tone was serious. ¡°This isn¡¯t about there not being enough saliva, you¡¯re genuinely infected with the virus. The saliva¡­ is useless.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai raised an eyebrow, her tone unchanging, she pointed to the dog¡¯s brain on the ground, ¡°Then let¡¯s use this.¡±


    ¡°Fighting poison with poison¡­ that¡¯s too risky, I don¡¯t believe in it. I would rather test the poison on myself.¡± Tong Sang looked at her, his tone firm.


    ¡°Fine, but we should wait until we¡¯re out of solution to test it on ourselves.¡± As Qiao Xiaomai spoke, she bent down to pick up her handkerchief.


    ¡°You¡¯re resisting inside.¡± Tong Sang remarked in a calm voice.


    Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s eyelids fluttered.


    Alright, she was indeed resisting.


    Forgive her, she was just a literature schr whose biggest hobby was gourmet food, she really didn¡¯t know the effect of this method.


    With the obvious rabies virus inside the dog¡¯s brain, would counteracting poison with poison really work?


    She remembered reading some online novels where transmigrators used the cowpox-infected vinations to treat smallpox. Wasn¡¯t that also counteracting poison with poison?


    Searching her memory, she furrowed her brows in frustration.


    She couldn¡¯t remember. When she was reading that novel, she glossed over the specifics to follow the plot.


    Well, never mind. Let¡¯s just fight poison with poison.


    Tong Sang¡¯s saliva was useless, and she didn¡¯t want to die, there¡¯s no other choice.


    ¡°Or¡­ you! Tong Sang!¡± Her voice suddenly raised, and then she jumped up from the small stool.


    Tong Sang had actually taken advantage of her moment of distraction to silently lick her wound!


    She stared at the man before her, gritting her teeth in ire, ¡°Are you suicidal?¡±


    Tong Sang gave her a small smile, resolution visible in it, ¡°I am, but only if something happens to you. If you get hurt, I won¡¯t be able to go on either. Come here, let me suck the poisoned blood out of your wound.¡± @@novelbin@@


    Qiao Xiaomai¡±¡­¡±


    She stamped her feet, but sat back down on the stool, raising her hand to hit him on the shoulder, ¡°You fool! The poisoned blood has already circted throughout my body!¡±


    She didn¡¯t hold back with her p, and Tong Sang gasped from the impact, his handsome face crumpled in pain.


    Feeling unsatisfied, Qiao Xiaomai pped him again, ¡°I¡¯ve already told you that I know how you feel. You don¡¯t have to go this far!¡±


    Tong Sang drew a breath again, his handsome face resembling Qiao Changshun¡¯s gnarled bark.


    Qiao Xiaomai gritted her teeth and gave him another p, though this time on the other shoulder, to avoid actually injuring him, ¡°Fool, why don¡¯t you learn from me! If something happens to you, I might happily be looking for my next spring!¡±


    At her words, Tong Sang couldn¡¯t help but smile. He grasped Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s arm, ¡°Alright, alright, stop hitting. I¡¯ve already licked it, let me suck out the poisoned blood.¡±


    His tone was gentle and doting, andbined with his dazzling eyebrows and handsome smile, it was like a heavy beam of light prating Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s gaze.


    Burdened, yet warm.


    Caught off guard, she bit her lip, no longer resisting.

 Chapter 367: Feeling Emptied Out

    Chapter 367: Feeling Emptied Out


    Trantor: 549690339 |


    Tong Sang leaned in, gently pressing his lips against the wound. His soft tongue began by licking the area around the wound, then tenderly started suckling.


    A taste of blood entered his mouth, metallic and sweet yet not quite pleasant.


    He spat the blood out to the side, then leaned in again for another taste.


    Qiao Xiaomai looked at his handsome face up close. Deep teeth marks etched into her lips, though she felt no pain anymore, her thoughts were consumed by the man in front of her.


    She had encountered such a passionate yet sincere young man, was it the heavens¡¯ way of consoling her after the hardship she¡¯d experienced in her romantic past?


    While she was lost in her thoughts, Tong Sang had already drawn multiple mouthfuls of blood. He spat the blood out once again and began softly licking the wound, spreading as much saliva as possible over it.


    After a while, he started to feel chesty and his breath was obstructed.


    He tried not to pay it any mind and continued with his task.


    But sparkling stars began to appear in front of his eyes, and sharp whistling sounds filled his ears.


    ¡°Tong Sang, what¡¯s wrong with you?¡± Qiao Xiaomai, who had been observing him, got startled seeing his face turn extremely pale.


    ¡°No, it¡¯s nothing¡­¡± He scowled, still clinging on to her arm. ¡°It might be¡­¡±


    ¡°Stop guessing!¡± Qiao Xiaomai nervously pulled her arm out of his grip, ¡°What¡¯s wrong with you?¡±


    Even if he was infected with the Rabies Virus, how could it act up so quickly?


    ¡°I¡­¡± Tong Sang closed his eyes, his handsome face filled with pain. It seemed as though all his strength was drained, making speech difficult, ¡°I¡­¡±


    His lips trembled, his vision faded to ck, and he could no longer hold himself up as he copsed.


    Qiao Xiaomai, taken aback, quickly caught him in her arms, ¡°Tong Sang!¡±


    She felt a tightness in her chest and subconsciously brought her hand to his nose.


    Thankfully, he was still breathing!


    She let out a long sigh of relief, holding back the tears welled up in her eyes, and carried Tong Sang back to the room.


    After settling Tong Sang onto the bed, she fetched a cup of Spiritual Spring water, and carefully fed it to him.


    Tong Sang was unconscious and thus unable to drink the water.


    She had to use her mouth, transferring it to his mouth bit by bit.


    After feeding him a cup of water, Tong Sang¡¯splexion seemed to slightly improve. Encouraged, she continued the process.


    After consuming three cups of water, Tong Sang¡¯splexion finally returned to normal.


    Qiao Xiaomai let out a long sigh of relief. She patted her chest, returned the cup to the storage, then sat by the bed, holding his hand and not taking her eyes off him.


    About a quarter of an hourter, Tong Sang¡¯s eyshes fluttered, and he woke up.


    Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s nose tingled, ¡°Tong Sang, how are you feeling?¡±


    Tong Sang didn¡¯t answer. He licked his slightly dry lips, his gaze falling on her right arm. @@novelbin@@


    The lengthy wound hadpletely healed without even leaving a scar. The skin TA7OC???? car¡¯ll!cita oc if novar domocrcir]


    Qiao Xiaomai followed his gaze to her arm. Looking at his smile, her tears welled up again, and they poured uncontrobly from her eyes.


    She retrieved more water from her storage and handed it to Tong Sang.


    Tong Sang tried to lift his arm, but he found that his strength had been quite literally drained from him, and he couldn¡¯t even lift it. He gave a resigned smile, ¡°You feed me.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai put the water cup on the table and helped him sit up.


    With the water in his stomach, he took a deep breath, ¡°You truly are a little fox, Qiao. You¡¯ve sucked out all my energy.¡±

 Chapter 400: Preparations for Bribery

    Chapter 400: Preparations for Bribery


    Qiao Xiaomai looked at Qiao Changshun¡¯s face, as rough as tree bark, and pointed to the pile of firewood in the shed. ¡°Dad, start the fire. You haven¡¯t worked in the fields for two days. Eat and sleep early, there¡¯s still work to do tomorrow.¡±


    Qiao Changshun looked at her and sighed again, then went to bring the firewood into the kitchen to start the fire.


    All he could do now was pray in his heart for the Retired Emperor to spare the Tong Family


    His demands were not high, just to keep things as they are, and let Qiao Xiaomai live a life offort and prosperity.


    The night passed like this. The next day, Qiao Changshun summoned the workers who usually worked in his house to the fields. Qiao Xiaomai, on the other hand, went to find Yang Ye.


    She needed to find out about the Retired Emperor¡¯s daily food preferences, so as not to tter him inappropriately.


    Yang Ye was standing at the entrance to the vige, watching the soldiers digging a deep trench. Ten meters deep and five meters wide, itpletely surrounded Anping Vige, making it seem like an isted ind.


    Upon hearing of Qiao Xiaoinai¡¯s purpose, he said, ¡°The Retired Emperor is in good health and there¡¯s nothing he can¡¯t eat. As long as you don¡¯t make anything too hard or indigestible, you should be fine.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai nodded and then asked, ¡°Sir, could you help me make something out of iron, like this?¡±


    She gestured the shape of an oven.


    She was curious about the texture of the food baked with firewood.


    After hearing her description, Yang Ye immediately sent someone to prepare it in the cksmith¡¯s shop in the town.


    Qiao Xiaomai returned home, hitched up the ox cart, and prepared to go to town.


    To satisfy the Retired Emperor as much as possible, some ingredients needed to be prepared now, such as fish and shrimp.


    If they were raised with water from the Spiritual Spring, they would certainly taste better than those raised with ordinary water.


    Sigh, this year she must set aside a few acres to cultivate with the Spiritual Spring water.


    On one hand, these crops would be for their own consumption. On the other hand, they would be used to bribe nobles like Yang Ye.


    With these thoughts in mind, she turned the ox cart towards the Tong Family¡¯s residence.


    Originally, she nned to be responsible for Tong Sang¡¯s meals from now on. But given the current situation, the only thing she could provide for Tong Sang was sour plum soup in a y pot.


    Tong Xingda had returned.


    After themotion caused by Cen Hong yesterday, he had promptly rushed back to Anping Vige.


    Then he became severely anxious and worried.


    With a sword hanging above his head, this situation was too unbearable.


    When he saw Qiao Xiaomai, a light immediately shone in his eyes.


    ¡°Oh, Xiaomai, what are you making?¡± he warmly greeted her.


    ¡°Sour plum soup.¡± When giving gifts, she couldn¡¯t just give them to Tong Sang. She had taken thergest y pot and filled it with a big pot of sour plum soup.


    ¡°It¡¯s for cooling down during the summer heat, for Elder Master Tong.¡± Qiao Xiaomai smiled.


    By this time, Tong Sang hade over, ¡°Are you going to town?¡±


    ¡°Yes, to buy some things.¡±


    Tong Sang made a sound of agreement and fell silent. He was currently not allowed to leave the vige, so he couldn¡¯t apany her.


    Then Tong Xingda also joined them. Upon hearing Qiao Xiaoinai¡¯s words, he happily said, ¡°So, not just for your Elder Master Tong, others can also drink it?¡±


    ¡°With such a big y pot, everyone can drink. Sang, take the pot back.¡±


    As instructed, Tong Sang easily lifted the giant y pot.


    Qiao Xiaomai then addressed Tong Xingda, ¡°Uncle Tong, if there¡¯s nothing else, I¡¯ll be leaving first.¡±


    ¡°Go ahead, go ahead.¡± Tong Xingda, grinning, waved his hand.


    He watched Qiao Xiaoinai¡¯s figure retreating. Then he went back to the courtyard, saw Tong Sanging out from the kitchen, and immediately beckoned him over. ¡°Come here, I have something to say to you.¡±

 Chapter 369: Settling in the Village

    Chapter 369: Settling in the Vige


    Trantor: 549690339 |


    While Qiao Xiaomai was assisting Tong Sang to the restroom, at the threshing ground, after hearing the course of events, Yang Ye turned his gaze to Cen Hong, sneering, ¡°General Cen sure has quite the audacity. Miss Qiao is a friend of mine, she obediently queues up without requesting any special treatment, yet one of your underlings wants to take advantage of your power to cut in line.¡±


    ¡°Is it that your face is bigger than mine, a desultory prince? Or are you so ipetent that you can¡¯t even discipline your own dog?¡±


    Cen Hong¡¯s face turned red with embarrassment.


    Being reprimanded by Yang Ye openly in front of so manymon people, his dignity was thrown onto the ground and trampled recklessly!


    With a frown, Yang Wang intervened, ¡°Fourth Brother, General Cen is also considering the public security of Daqi, the origin of Tong Sang¡¯s martial arts is indeed unclear.¡±


    ¡± What about Qiao Xiaomai? She is but a young maiden who, in a moment of crisis, mustered her strength to kick the vicious dog away. Does this imply that she is immensely powerful? Third Brother, both of us clearly saw the incident. It was Cen Hong who attacked Qiao Xiaomai first.¡±


    ¡°This happened in public, and thanks to Tong Sang¡¯s intervention, he hesitated. Had there been no witnesses around, would Cen Hong have drawn his sword and killed them directly?¡±


    ¡°Fourth Brother, General Cen would never randomly kill the innocent.¡± Yang Wang retorted, his face darkening.


    Ignoring him, Yang Yefeng chuckled mockingly. ¡°Third Brother, are you not proposing to marry Miss Qiao? Now, Miss Qiao has been unjustly whipped by Cen Hong, and additionally has been used of ulterior motives. Yet observing your attitude, it seems as though you are on Cen Hong¡¯s side.¡±


    ¡°Is this the attitude with which you pursue Miss Qiao?¡±


    Upon hearing this, Yang Wang¡¯s face grew darker. ¡°What is the meaning of this, Fourth Brother?¡±


    ¡°The circumstances today are simply too convenient, prompting me to think more about this.¡± There was a hint of mockery in Yang Yefeng¡¯s eyes.


    He turned to Cen Hong, pointed at him, and spoke, ¡°General Cen, you¡¯re quite capable! With the simple act of pressing a big hat onto someone, you can injure or even kill someone. As it stands, I shall live in Anping Vige for now. Otherwise, I¡¯m afraid that if Ie next time, Qiao Xiaomai will be no more in this world.¡±


    As Yang Ye said this, he turned to look at Tong Tiehu. ¡°Vige Chief Tong, arrange for me to live at Ma Dongshu¡¯s ce. It¡¯s not a permanent solution, but it¡¯ll suffice until the Emperor¡¯s mandate arrives. For now, I shall stay here.¡±¡®


    ¡°Understood,¡± Tong Tiehu hurriedly replied.


    Yang Ye nced at Cen Hong once more, then turned to Qiao Changshun. ¡°Let¡¯s go and see Miss Qiao.¡±


    Having said that, he was the first to mount his horse, galloping towards the Qiao family¡¯s residence.


    Followed by his guards, Qiao Changshun and Qiao Dami hurriedly rode on the ox cart and donkey cart.


    Tong Tiehu also returned. For such an esteemed guest as Yang Ye is to be staying, he needed to make the necessary arrangements. @@novelbin@@


    As each person left the scene, Yang Wang clenched his fists, let out a breath, then turned to Cen Hong and instructed, ¡°You will stay in the town for a few days. When you report to the Emperor, emphasize that you acted in Daqi¡¯s best interests.¡±


    ¡°Eminence, I understand,¡± Cen Hong replied.


    ¡°Good, you may leave. I¡¯ll also stay in Anping Vige.¡±


    Cen Hong knew if Emperor Yong¡¯an took Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s side again, the price he paid would be substantial.


    Qiao Xiaomai, she had to be obtained.


    Thus, as Qiao Xiaomai was assisting Tong Sang out from the restroom, there was a knock on the door of the Qiao family home. ¡°Miss Qiao, I¡¯vee to visit. Tong Sang,e open the door!¡±


    The Qiao family had all gone to pay their taxes earlier, so the house was locked.


    ¡°Coming!¡± Qiao Xiaomai assisted Tong Sang to sit down under the shade of a willow tree and then ran to answer the door herself.

 Chapter 370: You want Miss Qiao to repay you?

    Chapter 370: You want Miss Qiao to repay you?


    Trantor: 549690339


    The gates of the courtyard swung open, and Yang Ye stepped in. But as he took in the situation in the courtyard, he froze.


    His phoenix eyes widened slightly as he asked, ¡°Why are you the one opening the door, and why is he seated looking so drained?¡±


    ¡°Because I¡¯m healed, and he¡¯s tired from carrying me back just now,¡± Qiao Xiaomai replied.


    ¡°Healed?¡± Yang Ye became even more surprised and instinctively nced at her right arm.


    She had changed her clothes, and her right arm was hidden under the sleeves, concealing the wound.


    Qiao Xiaomai nodded and hopped around on the ground to demonstrate her current energetic state. She said, ¡°I¡¯ve just applied the dog¡¯s brain medicine on my arm, it¡¯s wrapped with clean cloth now. Pleasee in and sit, sir.¡±


    ¡°Has it been appliedpletely?¡± While making his way further into the courtyard, Yang Ye asked.


    ¡°Yes,pletely applied,¡± Qiao Xiaomai confirmed with another nod.


    After all, the dog¡¯s brain had been disposed of in the toilet. Even if Yang Ye was suspicious, he wouldn¡¯t be able to find any.


    ¡°How do you feel now?¡± Yang Ye asked again.


    ¡°Thank you for your concern, sir. I feel splendid! If another mad doges around, I can even kick it away!¡±


    Looking at Qiao Xiaomai, Yang Ye frowned. Her face was pale yet rosy, showing no signs of having been bitten by a dog.


    He turned his gaze towards the boy seated under the willow tree.


    Though hisplexion seemed normal, if one looked closely, they could sense his frailty, as if he had just recovered from a severe illness.


    His brows furrowed further. ¡°Just what was your method of applying the dog¡¯s brain?¡±


    Why was the one who got sick bouncing around lively, while the one who was healthy looked drained?


    ¡°First, Brother Tong washed my wounds, then applied the dog¡¯s brain on it, and then bandaged it,¡± Qiao Xiaomai replied with a straight face.


    ¡°So he really is tired?¡± Yang Ye pointed at the boy named Tong.


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°Huh, if merely carrying you back home could exhaust him this much, he doesn¡¯t seem to be reliable for an entire lifetime.¡± Yang Ye said with a sly grin as he put his hands behind his back, half jokingly, half seriously.


    Qiao Xiaomaiughed, her expression unaffected. ¡°Sir, you¡¯re teasing me again.¡±


    Yang Ye let out a breathyugh, conceding, ¡°Indeed. Stepping up at critical moments like this is irresistible.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai smiled in response, but did notment. @@novelbin@@


    Yang Ye nced sideways at her, then pointed towards the kitchen. ¡°Since you¡¯re healed, why not prepare lunch in the kitchen. I have to present a memorial to the emperor and properly send off Cen Hong.¡±


    Rabies doesn¡¯t require bed rest, so one should carry on with their usual tasks.


    ¡°I don¡¯t have any writing materials at home,¡± she replied.


    ¡°I¡¯ve brought some,¡± Yang Ye responded with a wave of his hand.


    Qiao Xiaomai nodded in acknowledgment, ¡°Then I¡¯ll go prepare lunch now. Sir, do you have any specific dishes in mind?¡±


    It was fortunate that Yang Ye had stepped forward today, otherwise things could have ended poorly. She needed to show her gratitude.


    ¡°I would like to have Buddha Jumps Over the Wall, the one you made the other day,¡± Yang Wang strode in, conveniently picking up from Qiao Xiaomai¡¯sst statement.


    QiaoXiaomai¡±¡­¡±


    Yang Ye snorted, ¡°Third brother, where¡¯s the ingredients? Miss Qiao isn¡¯t wealthy enough to store abalone and shark fin at home.¡±


    After deriding Yang Wang, Yang Ye turned his gaze back to Qiao Xiaomai, ¡°Cook whatever you have.¡±


    Yang Wangughed, then approached Qiao Xiaomai, ¡°Miss Qiao, are you alright now?¡±


    ¡°We need to observe for a few more days. After all, rabies usually manifest a few days after infection,¡± she replied.


    ¡°I see, but there¡¯s no need to worry. The remedy I suggestedes from a divine doctor. It has proven remarkably effective and has cured patients before,¡± Yang Wang added.


    Watching this scene, Yang Ye asked with a hint of mockery in his eyes, ¡°Third brother, have you rushed over to seek Miss Qiao¡¯s gratitude?¡±

 Chapter 371: Space Upgrade

    Chapter 371: Space Upgrade


    Trantor: 549690339 |


    Having his intentions exposed, Yang Wang inwardly wished he could shut Yang Ye¡¯s mouth.


    ¡°Hey, that¡¯s not right, I¡¯m not like that,¡± he protested in his defense, his face going dark, ¡°I¡¯ve been smitten by Miss Qiao since the first sight and just came to check on her.¡±


    ¡°Now that you¡¯ve shown your concern, shouldn¡¯t you get back to your main tasks? It was Cen Hong who attacked her,¡± Yang Ye pointed out.


    ¡°Well¡­ I¡¯ll report today¡¯s events to my father. But before that, I n to stay here in Anping Vige until I¡¯m sure that Miss Qiao is safe.¡±


    Will Emperor Yongan really think he is forging alliances with the officials by courting a vige girl in a small mountain vige?


    Qiao Xiaomai @@novelbin@@


    Are both Yang Ye and Yang Wang nning to settle down in the vige?


    This sucks!


    Yang Ye¡¯s brows immediately knitted together at this development. He found himself looking at Qiao Xiaomai.


    Dressed in coarsely woven cloth, without makeup ¡ª she stood tall, her eyes bright and teeth white. Although her face was yful in a way, her personality was as rigid as steel ¡ª a strange, but perfect mix of conflicting qualities.


    Oh dear!


    Why is she so intriguing!


    Her cooking tastes great too. So good, that she has been able to earn thousands of taels with a wave of her finger.


    No wonder Yang Wang keeps hanging around her doorstep!


    Yang Ye exhaled with annoyance, pointing at Qiao Xiaomai, ¡°You go cook.¡±


    His father, the emperor, had once given him a secret decree, stating that in case of an emergency he could open it.


    And right now, he was in an emergency!


    Being his junior brother yet having no actual power, it was such a headache dealing with Yang Wang.


    Before long, Qiao Changshun and Qiao Dami returned home. Finding out that Qiao Xiaomai was safe, they helped prepare lunch.


    Meanwhile, Yang Ye and Yang Wang were trading banter under the willow tree, sitting at a small table.


    Tong Sang sat silent, looking as weak as before, barely able to lift his arms.


    Once lunch was ready, Qiao Xiaomai, iming that their social status prevented them from eating together, retired to the kitchen with the rest of her family and Tong Sang to eat around the stove.


    As Tong Sangcked the strength to lift his arm, she fed him from a bowl with a pair of chopsticks.


    Qiao Changshun watched with great satisfaction.


    Just now, when Tong Sang readily stepped forward to defend Qiao Xiaomai, and now as Qiao Xiaomai is feeding Tong Sang gently.


    There was something in these interactions that had caught his attention.


    There definitely was something.


    After this chain of events today, finally some good news!


    After lunch, Yang Ye started drafting a court memorandum, right there on the small table in Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s house; a ten thousand-character-long draft done in one go.


    Yang Wang, sitting in front of him and under his watchful gaze, could only try to stick to the facts and steer clear of making any interpretativements.


    And thus, the two princes spent the whole afternoon at Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s house, only returning to the Tong family¡¯s new house after dinner.


    After resting the whole afternoon, Tong Sang had regained some strength by evening, although it was still Qiao Changshun who finally had to use his cart to send him home.


    After an eventful day, Tong Sang obviously wasn¡¯ting over tonight. Qiao Xiaomai tossed and turned in her bed for a while before eventually falling asleep.


    In the dead of the night.


    Thin tendrils of what looked like mist appeared in her room, gathering from her body before filling the room and spreading out in all directions.


    The surroundings, originally veiled in chaos, regained rity as the tendrils melded into them.


    Her room¡­ had expanded.


    The next day, as the sun rose, as was their routine, Qiao Changshun and Qiao Dami got up early; However, Qiao Xiaomai didn¡¯t wake up till mid-morning.


    Qiao Zhaodi and Qiao Yindi were already up and working by the time a groggy Xiaomai stepped out of her house. Even after a quick breakfast, she could barely keep her eyes open.


    However, she wanted to check on Tong Sang and so, stifling her yawning, she casually filled a basket with dried tofu and prepared to set out.


    Just then, a limping Qiao Changshun hurried over. His rugged face etched with shock and excitement, he gasped, ¡°Xiaomai, Xiaomai, something big has happened!¡±

 Chapter 372: The Secret Tunnel is Discovered

    Chapter 372: The Secret Tunnel is Discovered


    Trantor: 549690339 | @@novelbin@@


    ¡°What¡¯s the matter?¡± Qiao Xiaomai asked while yawning.


    ¡°Oh dear, Dami just suggested catching some small fish for Sang to help him recuperate, so I took him to the river. Yet, we ran into the Vige Chief and Sang! There were even four guards with them.¡±


    Qiao Changshun pped his thigh and said, ¡°Guess what Sang said to me?¡± ¡± What did he say?¡± Qiao Xiaomai yawned again, tears welling up in her eyes. ¡°He said that while the two princes were hunting on the mountain, they discovered a cave. They summoned both of them-grandfather and grandson- to ask about the condition of the cave. Sang found the cave interesting, so he asked me to discuss it with you, to see if you¡¯d like to join the excitement.¡±


    Upon saying this, a look of wonder spread across Qiao Changshun¡¯s face, ¡°Wait, is there a cave on Rooster Mountain? I¡¯ve never heard of one.¡±


    ¡°What?!¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s eyes widened in shock, her handbasket dropped to the ground, and she froze.


    Has it been discovered?!


    ¡°Eh, Xiaomai, what¡¯s wrong? Why has your face suddenly turned so pale?¡± Qiao Changshun¡¯s confusion subsided as he turned his gaze back to Xiaomai, instantly getting the fright of his life.


    ¡°Wiry are you trembling? Xiaomai, are you okay? I¡¯ll go get Doctor Wu, wait here!¡± Qiao Changshun prepared to dash out.


    After a few steps, he remembered that there was a donkey at home, while theborers had only brought two oxen down to the field, he then immediately turned back, ¡°All, I¡¯m going to ride the Donkey Cart!¡±


    ¡°No, no need!¡± Seeing his flustered state brought Qiao Xiaomai back to reality from her immense fear, ¡°Dad, I¡¯ll be fine after resting for a while. You don¡¯t need to fetch Doctor Wu.¡±


    ¡°Really?!¡± Qiao Changshun looked incredulous.


    ¡°Really!¡± Qiao Xiaomai took a deep breath and turned to him, ¡°Dad, canyon go and have a look when you have time, and tell me what kind of cave it is? I won¡¯t go.¡±


    ¡°Having a look at what? I¡¯m going to stay home and take care of you. Come on, let me help you back into the house.¡± Qiao Changshun walked over.


    Qiao Xiaomai shook her head,¡± Dad, I just remembered I have to pick something up from Tong Sange¡¯s room as he asked me to, so I¡¯ll go to Tong¡¯s house first.¡±


    In that moment of realization, she quickly submerged her consciousness into her spatial pocket,


    And she discovered a spectacr fact: her spatial pocket had doubled in size!


    This sudden and silent upgrade came at a time when she was just about to express her gratitude to the heavens.


    But with the urgent situation, she had no time to give thanks, she had to get to Tong¡¯s house, find the secret tunnel, and retrieve the hidden treasure!


    Without the treasure, there would be no evidence, she could im ignorance!


    ¡°All? What thing?¡± Qiao Changshun paused, then asked, ¡°Looking at how pale your face is, you should rest at home. I¡¯ll go for you.¡±


    ¡°No, not necessary, I¡¯m fine. I¡¯ll go get it myself.¡± Qiao Xiaomai quickly shook her head.


    ¡°This¡­¡± Qiao Changshun was about to say something more when two men suddenly appeared at the door.


    It was YangYe¡¯s guards, Qiao Xiaomai recognized them.


    The two guards greeted Qiao Xiaomai and Qiao Changshun, and then said, ¡°Miss Qiao, Prince Yang and King Duan went hunting on the mountain today and identally discovered a cave, and behind the cave, is a secret tunnel. Given this marvel, the prince would like to invite you to have a look.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai¡±¡­¡±


    She stered a pale smile on her face, ¡°Thank you for the prince¡¯s kind intentions, but I am not feeling too well right now and cannot go up the mountain.¡±


    ¡°Then the two of us will stay here to protect you. The prince instructed us to ensure your safety.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai¡±¡­¡±


    Is this surveince?

 Chapter 405: Hitting On The Horse’s Leg

    Chapter 405: Hitting On The Horse¡¯s Leg


    The Academy was also designed by Yang Wenxiao, and just as the Dean had said, he was familiar with every de of grass and every tree.


    A sense of nostalgia appeared in his clear eyes.


    Back then, it was that person who had casually mentioned to him about the Academy, a ce that waspletely different from the Imperial College. Even though it was just a few words, it was enough to make him yearn for it.


    After Daqi was established, he began to draw up the blueprints, with those pitifully few words he had, stroke by stroke, and finally, it became what it is now.


    How he wished that person was still alive.


    How he wished that person couldment on this Bailu Academy.


    With a soft sigh, Yang Wenxiao walked along the path towards the amodation area.


    He didn¡¯t need anyone to guide him, he knew this ce as well as his own Da¡¯an Pce, he wouldn¡¯t get lost even with his eyes closed.


    The amodation area had many small courtyards, specially prepared for visiting dignitaries, and all the courtyards were the same, there was no distinction between high and low or luxury and simplicity.


    The courtyards were neatly arranged, in front of one of the courtyards stood many people: the teachers of the academy and their families, Madam Guo Xiaomai was also among them.


    Yang Wenxiao walked over, and a group of people bowed in salutation to him.


    ¡°You may all rise.¡± Yang Wenxiao waved his hand, ¡°For now, go back. You can return tomorrow.¡±


    The group of people respectfully agreed and each returned to their own courtyards.


    Xiaomai stepped towards the courtyard where Yang Wenxiao was staying, as a cook herself, it was time for her to wait in the kitchen.


    Yang Wenxiao followed into the courtyard, the second entrance to his residence was really much smaller for his liking.


    ¡°I lived in such a small courtyard when I was young,¡± he sighed.


    His family was andlord, andter they took over the world, for decades he had not lived in such a refined small courtyard. Green leaves provided shade, and the flowers were like tapestry. Various deep colors intermingled in this small courtyard, the visual impact was unusually huge.


    He couldn¡¯t help but sigh softly.


    Indeed, he had aged.


    He was actually sighing over such lively little scenery.


    ¡°It¡¯s small and exquisite, quite different from the grandeur of the Imperial Pce. Grandpa Emperor, why not build a small courtyard for you in the pce?¡± Yang Ye asked.


    ¡°No need.¡± Yang Wenxiao shookhis head.


    What he was sighing over wasn¡¯t the scenery, but the people.


    Ever since he stepped into Bailu Town, his heart had been in turmoil, thinking of that person buried in this ce.


    Taking a deep breath to himself, he stepped into the main hall.


    After changing his clothes and taking a little rest, he talked a bit about family matters with Yang Ye and Yang Wang. By then, the sky was getting dark. ¡°Grandpa Emperor, is it time for dinner? Are you hungry?¡± Yang Ye asked.


    ¡°You think of nothing but eating.¡± Yang Wenxiao shookhis head helplessly, ¡°Serve it then.¡±


    Yang Ye snapped his fingers with a beaming smile, and maids immediately left for the kitchen.


    ¡°People regard food as their prime want. In front of delicious food, I am just an ordinary civilian.¡±


    ¡°Moreover, I can indulge in good food because Grandpa Emperor and Father Emperor have managed the world so well. With ample food avable, we can pursue refinement, right?¡± Yang Ye added.


    Yang Wenxiaoughed, ¡°You sweet talker.¡±


    ¡°Grandpa Emperor, there has been a disaster in Shuifeng Prefecture. Every time I think of those disaster victims struggling in human hell, I can¡¯t sleep or eat.¡± Yang Wang sighed on the side.


    Eating, eating, and eating, he can only get favors by eating and sweet talking.


    He has been racking his brains for the country and the people, but because he is not good at talking, he has never been favored.


    How unfair.


    Upon hearing this, Yang Ye nced at him, swiftly opened the folding fan in his hand, ¡°Third brother, take out the bravado you had when you wooed MissQiao, when you bought out several shops in town. With that vigor, you can eat well and sleep well.¡±


    If you have food, just eat it. Why bring up those depressing topics and affect the mood!

 Chapter 406: Glutinous Rice Cake Leads the Way

    Chapter 406: Glutinous Rice Cake Leads the Way


    ¡°Huh? Chasing after Miss Qiao?¡± As soon as Yang Ye¡¯s words fell, Yang Wenxiao immediately caught onto the key point.


    Yang Wang¡¯s face turned hot in an instant.


    The stupid thing he did that day was a dark spot in his life!


    ¡°He fell head over heels for Qiao Xiaomai at first sight, emptied the entire Zuixian Building and Nuerguan to win Miss Qiao¡¯s favor.¡± Yang Ye slowly fanned himself as he sinctly exined to Yang Wenxiao.


    ¡°Fourth Brother, let¡¯s not bring up the past.¡± Yang Wang said with a stern face.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong with bringing it up, isn¡¯t it that now you are not infatuated with Miss Qiao?¡± Yang Ye raised a brow, ¡°You owe Miss Qiao a life-saving grace, with a little more effort, maybe Miss Qiao would agree.¡±


    Before this, he had submitted a memorial to Emperor Yongan detailing the entire series of events.


    Although he didn¡¯t explicitly say that the so-called heroic rescue involved Yang Wang, the clue was clear.


    Yet Emperor Yongan only punished Cen Hong, without mentioning a word about Yang Wang.


    This made him quite unhappy.


    Even more unpleasant was the subsequent digging of the vige for treasures, intending to uproot arge vige inhabiting five thousand people at the drop of a hat.


    Hmm.


    Such a face, somewhat unsightly.


    Just because the Grand Emperor arrived, why bother bringing up all the unpleasant stuff? Is it necessary?


    Why not leave these matters for discussion tomorrow?


    This was a banquet after all, of course only pleasant conversations were weed!


    Hmph, since Yang Wang had annoyed him, naturally he should return the favor.


    Yang Wang¡¯s face instantly turned ck as the bottom of a pot. Did Yang Ye still remember the heroic rescue?


    ¡°That¡¯s right, Wang¡¯er, what exactly are your intentions towards Miss Qiao? Tell me.¡± Yang Wenxiao spoke, seemingly quite interested.


    Upon hearing this, Yang Wang perked up, did the Grand Emperor imply that he was going to make a stand for him?


    With this thought, he immediately replied, ¡°My feelings are indeed unchanged.¡±


    ¡°Yes, such a rare devotion, not being able to dig up Anping Vige, you want to dig up Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s home, such intentions, Qiao Xiaomai, a powerless and influenceless vige girl, wouldn¡¯t be able to handle.¡± Yang Ye couldn¡¯t help but scoff.


    ¡°Fourth brother, if you have feelings for Miss Qiao, you can express them openly, why all this sarcasm and mockery?¡± Yang Wang said.


    ¡°Stop.¡± Yang Ye immediately waved his hand, ¡°I only feel a kinship with Miss Qiao, no romantic feelings involved.¡±


    ¡°Kinship? Do you really think she is willingly cooking for you every day?¡± Yang Wang huffed.


    Yang Ye tutted a few times, just about to speak, when Yang Wenxiao stood up, ¡°Enough quarreling, it¡¯s time for dinner.¡±


    The maid had already carried the food box over, arranging a feast of exquisitely prepared dishes on the table, the aroma filled the room.


    Yang Wenxiao raised an eyebrow and took a few steps towards the dining table.


    Seeing this, Yang Ye quickly followed suit, ¡°Grandpa Emperor, what do you think? Isn¡¯t there a refreshing fragrance?¡±


    Yang Wenxiao closed his eyes, tooka gentle sniff, then nodded, ¡°Indeed, it¡¯s quite unique.¡±


    ¡°Grandpa Emperor, I¡¯ve had someone taste for poison, how about trying this fish head tofu soup first, it¡¯s really tasty and a great appetiser.¡± Yang Ye starteddling the soup as he spoke.


    Yang Wang, having endured Yang Ye¡¯s cold shoulder and having eaten quite a few meals at Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s home these days, was quite familiar with Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s cooking. He quickly picked up a small dish from the side of the table, ¡°Grandpa Emperor, try this glutinous rice cake, the taste is really good.¡±


    To avoid the situation of overdoing the ttery, Qiao Xiaomai was very careful not to use Dami this time.


    However, she did make a small dish of glutinous rice cakes, small, plum blossom-shaped, mixed with a thinyer of bean paste inside.


    Dami, for Yang Wenxiao, was also a staple, Qiao Xiaomai didn¡¯t know how long Yang Wenxiao was going to stay in Bailu Town, so she was likely to use Dami.


    Yes, she¡¯d use glutinous rice to test Yang Wenxiao¡¯s reaction first.

 Chapter 375: The Basement is Empty! (Additional Release)

    Chapter 375: The Basement is Empty! (Additional Release)


    Trantor: 549690339


    Qiao Xiaomai stared at this brick, carefully searched in the space for a while, and finally found a can of strong glue.


    The glue was the same she had used against her stepmother years ago. She had sneakily glued her stepmother¡¯s skirt, along with her underwear, to the chair during a cocktail party, making her suffer a huge embarrassment.


    Because she had won that battle brilliantly, she kept the can of strong glue in her space as a memento of victory.


    Unexpectedly, it came in handy in this different time-space.


    She did not have the luxury of time to be sentimental and promptly used the strong glue to stick the y brick back in ce.


    After confirming that the y brick would not fall off, she packed up the strong glue, took out the soil she had dug up earlier from her space bit by bit, and slowly filled up the soil pit.


    When she filled back the crushed stone soil of the foundationyer, in the secret tunnel, Yang Ye, Yang Wang, Ma Dongshu, along with Tong Sang and Tong Tiehu, appeared in this huge underground vault.


    Three meters thick soilyer, and in the middle ayer of soil bricks as hard as steel, the noise created by Xiaomai¡¯s work was no longer audible to them.


    The air in the vault was filled with ayer of dust, Yang Ye, covering his nose with a handkerchief, examined the surroundings in the light of the torch.


    It was vast and high, its grandeur could even match that of the pce in the Imperial Pce.


    But it was surprisingly empty!


    A space asrge as an acre, over ten meters high, such a huge underground cave was empty!


    It had absolutely nothing in it apart from the dust floating in the air!


    This was not right!


    ording to the treasure map, the treasure trove of the previous dynasty¡¯s national treasury was buried here in Anping Vige. However, since he did not know the exact location, he had invited Ma Dongshu toe over.


    After arriving, Ma Dongshu searched around the mountain and the vige but found nothing.


    Just this morning, to stop Yang Wang from pestering Qiao Xiaomai again, he took Yang Wang for hunting in the mountains.


    Then, unexpectedly, they found a crack in the mountain¡¯s cliff. After erging the crack, hidden inside was a cave.


    The cave connected to a secret tunnel that seemed to lead off somewhere.


    A secret tunnel!


    At that time, he was overjoyed. If he found the secret tunnel, could the treasure be far away?


    The treasure couldn¡¯t be far away!


    Therefore, he immediately sent people to invite Tong Sang and Tong Tiehu over. As soon as these two behaved unusually, he could capture them at any time.


    Well¡­ it would be difficult to capture Tong Sang, but Tong Tiehu would not be a problem!


    Tong Sang might have reservations and might surrender.


    Back in the day, it was Gu Yu¡¯s woman who disappeared with the treasure. In the whole Anping Vige, the Tong family was the most suspicious.


    Was Tong Sang¡¯s martial arts derived from a secret martial arts manual?


    Heh.


    Such light work, in the whole Daqi, no, in the whole world, was unheard of, unseen. Its magic was almost as astonishing as Gu Yu¡¯s woman.


    The Tong family was highly likely rted to that woman!


    Just because he became suspicious of the Tong family, he had tipped Qiao Xiaomai that way before, hoping that Qiao Xiaomai would not be deceived by Tong Sang.


    But Qiao Xiaomai, a girl who has rarely seen men, and Tong Sang, who showed deep affection and loyalty, his words werepletely disregarded.


    However, it didn¡¯t matter, Tong Sang was Tong Sang, and Qiao Xiaomai was Qiao Xiaomai.


    As long as Qiao Xiaomai behaved honestly and know her ce, then he could save her life.


    So, not only did he send people to invite Tong Tiehu and Tong Sang over, but he also sent two people to protect Qiao Xiaomai.


    Once the treasure emerged, Yang Wang, and Cen Hongping would fall into a crazy state. In such a chaotic situation, Qiao Xiaomai, a weak woman, had no ability to protect herself.


    So, he had nned it all very well.


    On one hand, he called Tong Tiehu and Tong Sang.


    On the other hand, he sent people to protect Qiao Xiaomai.


    But to his surprise, after going through a long secret tunnel, this huge vault turned out to be empty!


    Empty! @@novelbin@@


    [Thank you for all your votes, my lovelies. Love you all ¨C Kisses ~ ~ That 2D male god is indeed little brother~]

 Chapter 408: Watching Her

    Chapter 408: Watching Her


    With a calm mind, Xiaomai earnestly exined how to make the glutinous rice cake.


    She knew what the Grandpa Emperor was really asking, but she could not disclose the secret about the Spiritual Spring water.


    All she could do was attribute everything to her cooking skills.


    It was her excellent cooking skills that enabled her to make such uniquely fragrant dishes!


    Yang Ye, standing next to them, reassured, ¡°Grandpa Emperor, there is nothing special about her method, but her dishes are so extraordinary tasty. Try this fish head tofu soup; it¡¯s delicious.¡±


    Yang Wenxiao nodded, put down his chopsticks, and picked up a small bowl.


    Once again, a unique fragrance hit his nostrils, and he took a sip gently with the spoon.


    The soup was both fragrant and fresh.


    Beneath these two vors hid a familiar aroma, very light, but impossible to ignore.


    ¡°Grandpa Emperor, let me tell you, Xiaomai has this miraculous knack to make any food, regardless of its fat content, taste light and refreshing. After eating, your entire body feelsfortable,¡± said Yang Ye.


    ¡°This is hard toe by. Take the braised pork, for instance. It¡¯s so fatty that I could only eat a piece before. But when she cooks it, I could eat a whole te without feeling greasy.¡±


    ¡°Exactly,¡± Yang Wang agreed. ¡°This is what sets Miss Xiaomai apart. Grandpa Emperor, we are not bragging. If you taste everything on this table, you will understand.¡±


    Yang Wenxiao looked amazed and muttered, ¡°Impressive.¡±


    All the dishes were made without adding any special seasoning but with a touch of the same unique aroma on every dish. It was magical.


    Too magical.


    Xiaomai, with a shy smile, was sitting without moving, her lips slightly pursed.


    Seeing this, Yang Wenxiao spoke, ¡°Don¡¯t be nervous, eat.¡±


    Xiaomai smiled again and picked up her chopsticks.


    ¡°Grandpa Emperor, try this sea cucumber steamed egg. It tastes really good.¡±


    Yang Wang was energetically rmending dishes to Yang Wenxiao.


    Yang Wenxiao looked over and picked up a bowl as shiny as white jade.


    The steamed egg was extremely tender. He didn¡¯t need to chew it, but swallow it directly.


    The vor of the sea cucumber was powerful, its original tastebined with the strange fragrance, resulted in an indescribably delicious vor.


    Yang Wenxiao kept feeding himself the sea cucumber steamed egg until it was finished.


    ¡°Grandpa Emperor, try this. It¡¯s called Wen¡¯s tofu.¡± Yang Ye presented arge bowl to Yang Wenxiao. ¡°Look at this tofu; it¡¯s sliced as thin as hair.¡±


    Yang Wenxiao raised his eyebrows, ¡°Impressive.¡±


    Xiaomai continued to smile coyly. She had practiced her chopping skills a lot for this dish.


    Then, Yang Ye and Yang Wang took turns serving dishes, urging Yang Wenxiao to taste each one.


    Of course, the portion of each dish was notrge. By the time Yang Wenxiao had tasted more than a dozen dishes, he was satisfactorily full.


    ¡°Alright, you three continue eating. Don¡¯t worry about me anymore.¡± He waved his hand, his gaze fell on Xiaomai.


    He didn¡¯t say anything. He just looked at Xiaomai.


    His gaze was so intense that Xiaomai broke into a cold sweat.


    Most people of his age, almost ny, in her impression, seemed old and decrepit, emanating an aura of decay.


    But Yang Wenxiao was different.


    Despite his white hair and wrinkled face, his eyes were not only clear but also sharp and bright.


    Moreover, he was not hunched over, his tall figure had not shrunk much, it was easy to see the vigor of his youth.


    Added to his powerful aura formed by being in a high position for so long, all of these greatly pressured Xiaomai.


    Thebined effect of Yang Ye and Yang Wang was not as powerful as the single gaze from Yang Wenxiao at this moment.


    He scrutinized and inquired.


    His gaze made her break out into a cold sweat.

 Chapter 377 - 377 Only Gratitude

    Chapter 377: Only Gratitude


    Trantor: 549690339 |


    Once above ground, Yang Wang ordered someone to call Cen Hong.


    Yang Ye, however, instructed Tong Sang, ¡°Go tell Miss Qiao that it¡¯s hot today. This Prince wants to eat something refreshing for lunch. Let her handle it.¡±


    He was unsure if Qiao Xiaomai knew about the treasure in the secret tunnel. But since they had just sent someone to call for her, would news of the cave make her feel uneasy?


    He dismissively thought, assuming she was already anxious and in her worst state of emotion.


    He decided to let Tong Sang return home and reassure her.


    As he watched Tong Sang¡¯s graceful lightness in movement, he touched his nose in recognition of his own contradictions. He feared Qiao Xiaomai being deceived, yet he couldn¡¯t help bringing these two together.


    > v <) <sub>r</sub>


    Using his lightness skills, Tong Sang descended the mountain and headed for the Qiao Family house.


    Hended at the entrance of the Qiao¡¯s house, with the courtyard gate open, and instantly saw Qiao Changshun and the two guards sitting under the tree chatting.


    Right then, Qiao Changshun happened to look at the entrance and see him. Hurriedly, he stood, ¡°Air, Sang, howe you¡¯re here?¡±


    ¡°Prince Wei asked me to find Xiaomai. He said he wants to have something refreshing for lunch and asked her to prepare it,¡± Tong Sang replied.


    ¡°Oh,¡± Qiao Changshunmented upon hearing this and pped his thigh. ¡°Xiaomai isn¡¯t feeling well. She¡¯s lying down in the house.¡±


    As soon as he finished speaking, Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s voice echoed from the room. ¡°Is it Brother Sang? Come in and help me bandage my wounds!¡±


    Tong Sang looked at Qiao Changshun and pointed to Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s room.


    Qiao Changshun immediately smiled, ¡°Go in, go in.¡±


    He didn¡¯t mind at all how long these two would stay alone in the room!


    Tong Sang nodded, smiled courteously at the two guards and stepped into the hall.


    Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s room door was closed, so he gently knocked.


    The next moment, the room door opened, and a figure plunged into his arms.


    Her arms tightly wrapped around his shoulders, the strength of her hug seemingly enough to shatter bones.


    Her small face was buried in his neck, wet and warm with her tears.


    He took a deep breath and lifted his arms to hold her in return.


    When the guard sent by Yang Ye told him that a cave had been discovered on the mountain, it felt like his blood turned to ice.


    The moment he feared the most had finally arrived.


    At that time, one thought emerged in his mind: to take Qiao Xiaomai away.


    His instinct was to use his lightness skills to find Qiao Xiaomai and bring her away from this ce of intrigue.


    In that moment, he forgot the promise Yang Ye had made, only one thought remained in his mind: to leave, and take Qiao Xiaomai to a safe ce.


    At the crucial moment, it was Tong Tiehu who pulled him back. Tong Tiehu¡¯s gaze was unusually calm, with no signs of panic in his eyes or face.


    This pull and that calm demeanor gave him some new thoughts.


    Qiao Xiaomai had a guarantee given by Yang Ye himself, she would be safe.


    Looking at his grandfather¡¯s performance at the moment, could it be that he had a backup n?


    With these doubts in mind, he followed behind the two guards, walking up the mountain with Tong Tiehu.


    While passing by the small river, he encountered Qiao Changshun. @@novelbin@@


    Without any hesitation, he told Qiao Changshun about the situation.


    Qiao Xiaomai had to know about this. She needed to be mentally prepared, and to be ready for the worst.


    Upon entering the secret tunnel on the mountain, he found that the branch leading to his home had disappeared. His icy blood warmed a bit.


    Upon reaching the cer and seeing that the enormous metal room had vanished into thin air, his icy blood returned to normal.


    These ups and downs.


    All he could think of at this point was gratitude.

 Chapter 410: Events of the Past (Part 2)

    Chapter 410: Events of the Past (Part 2)


    Driven to the edge of madness, he rushed towards Qingyi Manor, for Gu Yu had fallen in battle. What about her?


    As a woman, what could her fate be in such circumstances?


    He dared not imagine, he could only do his utmost to save her.


    By the time he arrived at Qingyi Manor, his eyes were met with countless corpses and rivers of blood.


    Gu Yu¡¯s thirty thousand men had fought against Fu Xuan¡¯s hundred thousand. Gu Yu had died in battle, but Fu Xuan¡¯s losses were also severe.


    Fu Xuan didn¡¯t even bother disposing of the bodies, he was busy ordering men to dig for the treasure.


    Gu Yu robbed the National Treasury, yet Fu Xuan couldn¡¯t find a single vestige of the treasure.


    The treasure was nowhere to be found!


    She was nowhere to be found either!


    Knowing that she was alive yet unseen, dead yet unburied, he finally rxed. Death without a body was the best news he could hope for.


    He then began to deploy people to find traces of her. This search went on for thirty years.


    To be precise, it was not him who found her, but she who intentionally left signs.


    Every time a disaster urred, some unidentified force would generously provide aid.


    This was too suspicious.


    Investigate, he must investigate.


    In the end, he narrowed his focus to Anping Vige.


    Anping Vige, a small mountain vige. Was she hiding here?


    He excitedly left the pce, getting on a horse to meet her.


    After thirty years of separation, the torment of missing her was etched into his every waking moment and haunted his nights.


    He found her, finally, he found her!


    Heavens, you¡¯ve shown him such mercy.


    He had never put his faith in destiny, yet in his life, there were two moments when he genuinely knelt on the ground, thanking the heavens.


    One was when he learned she had vanished without a trace.


    The other was thirty yearster when he heard news of her.


    He was overjoyed, delirious with joy.


    He left behind state affairs and governance, he couldn¡¯t wait to leave the pce.


    All along the way, he fantasized about various scenes of their reunion.


    He had so many questions to ask.


    He had so many feelings to pour out.


    He passed the days on the road sustained by his fantasies.


    But¡­but¡­


    What awaited him was a twisted tree.


    Buried under this gnarled tree were her remains.


    She had passed away more than twenty years ago.


    She was dead.


    His strength once again left himpletely.


    No, this time it was his life that had been hollowed out.


    His waiting and anticipation of thirty years, all gone to waste.


    All gone to waste.


    He had always assumed that somewhere in the world, she was living well.


    Even if he couldn¡¯t see her, it was alright, as long as she was alive and well.


    They breathed the same air, under the same blue sky.


    At night, they saw the same moon and stars.


    He didn¡¯t know where she was, but he knew she was in this world.


    It was these things, these sameness, this longing and hope that sustained him for thirty years.


    Now, he had found her, finally, he had found her.


    But she was gone.


    What she left behind was an urn of ashes and a suicide note.


    The handwriting still crooked, reading it left him teetering on the verge of a breakdown.


    She exined why Gu Yu had broken their pact years ago, offered advice on the political situation, andstly, implored him to spare the descendants of Gu Yu.


    She knew he woulde, so she left this letter.


    She, she had always had faith in him, whether it was during their early days when their powers were weak or now.


    She said he could conquer the world.


    She even predicted he woulde to find her.


    But why couldn¡¯t she wait a little longer¡­


    Didn¡¯t she have that magical rice that could bring the dead back to life?


    Why was it that he stayed in excellent health all these decades, but she departed so early?


    GuYu was dead.


    He was dead!

 Chapter 409: 409: Events of the Past (Part 1)

    Chapter 409: Events of the Past (Part 1)<div>


    Qiao Xiaomai wasn¡¯t just an ordinary peasant girl; she had seen her fair share of the world. Under Yang Wenxiao¡¯s gaze, she calmly ate her dinner.


    Indeed, the meal was tasty.


    Soon, dinner was over.


    The maid cleaned away the dishes and served tea.


    Yang Wenxiao leisurely tasted his tea. However, itcked the refreshing aroma, leaving a nd taste in his mouth.


    ¡°Miss Qiao, who are the members of your household?¡± Yang Wenxiao began to inquire about Xiaomai¡¯s situation.<div>


    Of course, he had already investigated all of this thoroughly. His present line of inquiry was just to dispel the persistent mncholy in his heart.


    Years ago, when Gu Yu broke the alliance and went north, the Yang Family troops he led were fiercely attacked by the enemy. As themander, an arrow struck him just below the heart, posing a grave threat to his life.


    Thinking he was on his deathbed, a master from outside the camp brought him a bowl of steaming rice.


    Each grain of rice was shimmering under the candlelight, each as radiant as a gem.


    The intoxicating aroma was extremely rich, pervading the whole camp as soon as he opened the food box.


    The master who delivered the rice said that if he ate the rice, his injury would heal.


    At that time, he was already semi-conscious, his mind clouded. However, the moment the bowl of rice appeared, his chaotic mind cleared somewhat.


    He could tell from its appearance alone that the rice was extraordinary.


    Struggling and enduring severe pain, he finished the entire bowl of rice, mouthful by mouthful.


    Then, something miraculous happened.


    The wound beneath his heart, one that could have taken his life, was healed.


    It was healed.<div>


    His skin was as wless as a newborn baby¡¯s, as if he had never been injured.


    He immediately rushed out of the camp, intending to find the mysterious benefactor.


    He was also skilled in martial arts and could be considered strong; however, he couldn¡¯t find the person. All he found was an arrow.


    But this time, the arrow wasn¡¯t aimed at him, it was embedded in the ground beside him.


    Tied to the arrow was a note.


    The note was written in scrawly handwriting, as if a three-year-old child had written it.


    The script was ugly, yet eerily familiar.


    At one nce, he recognized who the writing belonged to.


    He didn¡¯t care to read the content of the note, tearing his gaze from it to wildly search for the writer.


    Unfortunately, despite circling around the camp numerous times, he came back with nothing.


    In the end, he reluctantly returned to his tent, staring nkly at the empty food box and the coarse ceramic bowl for a long time, only trying to read the note when dawn was breaking.


    The note was a prescription.<div>


    A prescription for making gunpowder.


    Gunpowder, something he had never heard about before.


    The writer exined this divine weapon in a mystical manner, suggesting that with it, the world could be easily conquered.


    He ordered his people to study it carefully. After spending significant time and losing several men in its study and trials, they finally seeded in creating this divine weapon.


    Just like the note¡¯s writer had written, relying on this divine weapon, his Yang Family army was invincible. They advanced triumphantly breaking through borders and beheading enemies along the way.


    While Gu Yu decided to go north, he chose to head southward.


    The writer had bestowed this divine weapon upon him, and he intended to reciprocate.


    There would be no contention. He wouldn¡¯t vie with Gu Yu.


    However, that good-for-nothing Gu Yu, even though he managed to enter Capital City, was driven out by Fu Xuan, trapped in Qingyi Manor!


    Upon hearing this, he personally led ten thousand cavalrymen to the north to rescue him.


    But Daqi was too vast, even if he traveled day and night non-stop, he would be toote to reach the manor. Before he could get there, news from the front arrived.


    Qingyi Manor, was lost.<div>


    Gu Yu, had fallen in battle.


    Fallen in battle. Gu Yu had actually fallen in battle, even with the godlike weapon, gunpowder, at his disposal!


    The ipetent fool!

 Chapter 410: 410: Events of the Past (Part 2)

    Chapter 410: Events of the Past (Part 2)<div>


    Driven to the edge of madness, he rushed towards Qingyi Manor, for Gu Yu had fallen in battle. What about her?


    As a woman, what could her fate be in such circumstances?


    He dared not imagine, he could only do his utmost to save her.


    By the time he arrived at Qingyi Manor, his eyes were met with countless corpses and rivers of blood.


    Gu Yu¡¯s thirty thousand men had fought against Fu Xuan¡¯s hundred thousand. Gu Yu had died in battle, but Fu Xuan¡¯s losses were also severe.


    Fu Xuan didn¡¯t even bother disposing of the bodies, he was busy ordering men to dig for the treasure.<div>


    Gu Yu robbed the National Treasury, yet Fu Xuan couldn¡¯t find a single vestige of the treasure.


    The treasure was nowhere to be found!


    She was nowhere to be found either!


    Knowing that she was alive yet unseen, dead yet unburied, he finally rxed. Death without a body was the best news he could hope for.


    He then began to deploy people to find traces of her. This search went on for thirty years.


    To be precise, it was not him who found her, but she who intentionally left signs.


    Every time a disaster urred, some unidentified force would generously provide aid.


    This was too suspicious.


    Investigate, he must investigate.


    In the end, he narrowed his focus to Anping Vige.


    Anping Vige, a small mountain vige. Was she hiding here?


    He excitedly left the pce, getting on a horse to meet her.<div>


    After thirty years of separation, the torment of missing her was etched into his every waking moment and haunted his nights.


    He found her, finally, he found her!


    Heavens, you¡¯ve shown him such mercy.


    He had never put his faith in destiny, yet in his life, there were two moments when he genuinely knelt on the ground, thanking the heavens.


    One was when he learned she had vanished without a trace.


    The other was thirty yearster when he heard news of her.


    He was overjoyed, delirious with joy.


    He left behind state affairs and governance, he couldn¡¯t wait to leave the pce.


    All along the way, he fantasized about various scenes of their reunion.


    He had so many questions to ask.


    He had so many feelings to pour out.


    He passed the days on the road sustained by his fantasies.<div>


    But¡­but¡­


    What awaited him was a twisted tree.


    Buried under this gnarled tree were her remains.


    She had passed away more than twenty years ago.


    She was dead.


    His strength once again left himpletely.


    No, this time it was his life that had been hollowed out.


    His waiting and anticipation of thirty years, all gone to waste.


    All gone to waste.


    He had always assumed that somewhere in the world, she was living well.


    Even if he couldn¡¯t see her, it was alright, as long as she was alive and well.


    They breathed the same air, under the same blue sky.<div>


    At night, they saw the same moon and stars.


    He didn¡¯t know where she was, but he knew she was in this world.


    It was these things, these sameness, this longing and hope that sustained him for thirty years.


    Now, he had found her, finally, he had found her.


    But she was gone.


    What she left behind was an urn of ashes and a suicide note.


    The handwriting still crooked, reading it left him teetering on the verge of a breakdown.


    She exined why Gu Yu had broken their pact years ago, offered advice on the political situation, andstly, implored him to spare the descendants of Gu Yu.


    She knew he woulde, so she left this letter.


    She, she had always had faith in him, whether it was during their early days when their powers were weak or now.


    She said he could conquer the world.


    She even predicted he woulde to find her.<div>


    But why couldn¡¯t she wait a little longer¡­


    Didn¡¯t she have that magical rice that could bring the dead back to life?


    Why was it that he stayed in excellent health all these decades, but she departed so early?


    GuYu was dead.


    He was dead!

 Chapter 381: Born Unseen, Died Unburied (Extra Chapter)

    Chapter 381: Born Unseen, Died Unburied (Extra Chapter)


    Trantor: 549690339


    Indeed, since the treasure has disappeared, his treasure hunting activities in this ce should no longer be mentioned.


    Various forces are looking for this batch of treasures. He doesn¡¯t want to get involved in all these, so he has to y dumb.


    This Ma Dongshu really understood his thoughts¡­ He deserves praise.


    Seeing Yang Yefeng¡¯s obvious satisfaction, Ma Dongshu pretended not to notice and continued talking, ¡°Both His Highness, the Prince, and General Cen agree that this secret tunnel used to be the storage for the previous dynasty¡¯s treasure.¡±


    ¡°Oh? Why are they so convinced?¡± YangYe¡¯s handsome face showed a well- ced look of surprise.


    ¡°Because the bricks here aren¡¯t made by any human force, it¡¯s very simr to how that woman disappeared with the treasure. That¡¯s why they can¡¯t help linking these two incidents together.¡±


    Of course, this is just the official story from Yang Wang and Cen Hong.


    The real reason, naturally, is that they also hold a treasure map.


    However, their intelligence is clearly a step behind YangYe¡¯s. Their focus is on Prefecture City, which is where Yang Ye once personally observed.


    They¡¯ve never understood why Ma Dongshu stayed at Anping Vige for so long.


    For what? @@novelbin@@


    The secret tunnel has now provided them with the answers.


    For the treasure, of course!


    ¡°Is it possible to make that connection?¡± Yang Ye seemed surprised.


    ¡°Yes.¡± Ma Dongshu said, giving Qiao Xiaomai a covert nce.


    He tried to probe Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s thoughts that day, but his girl was tight- lipped. He got nothing from their meal together.


    Qiao Xiaomai didn¡¯t reveal anything out of the ordinary back then. She was stunned now, ¡°Mr. Ma, that mysterious story you toldst time, is it true?!¡±


    A twitch crossed Ma Dongshu¡¯s mouth at her words, ¡°So you think I was lying to you that day?¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai hurriedly shook her head, ¡°I¡¯m just a country bumpkin with little experience. Your story was so amazing that I treated it as a myth.¡±


    Ma Dongshu rolled his eyes, ¡°It is no myth. This ce probably contained that batch of treasure.¡±


    ¡°And that woman?¡± Qiao Xiaomai asked.


    Ma Dongshu shrugged, ¡°Only God knows.¡±


    He had visited the graves in Anping Vige many times in the past few days, but there was no trace of that woman.


    Neither could he find a likely location for her grave after many rounds in the hills.


    This woman is indeed incredibly mysterious.


    There are no sightings of her alive, nor traces of her grave.


    ¡°What about the Prince and General Cen?¡± Yang Ye asked.


    ¡°They are inside the tunnel, carefully inspecting every corner.¡±


    ¡°Well, let¡¯s go in and have a look too.¡± Saying that, Yang Ye walked towards the secret tunnel.


    Only after entering the tunnel, did Qiao Xiaomaiprehend the term ¡®the work of gods and ghosts¡¯.


    She had personally felt the hardness of these bricks, and now walking on top of it, she felt it more intensely.


    The bricks were hard but grey in color. Their arrangement was neat and tidy, extending ten miles underground.


    How did this secret tunnel and these brickse to exist?


    The woman was indeed magical.


    By the time they walked the length of the tunnel and came out, it was already evening.


    Yang Wang and Cen Hong were still reluctant to leave, intent on finding some clues, brick by brick inside the tunnel.


    Qiao Xiaomai returned to the vige to prepare dinner, and the day thus went by.


    It began with excitement and ended with tranquility.


    At night, Qiao Xiaomai tossed and turned in bed, finding it hard to sleep. Whether it was the treasure in the void, the mechanism that Tong Tiehu was hiding, or Yang Wang and Cen Hong¡¯s relentlessness, all of it robbed her of her sleep.


    After much tossing and turning, she finally had a light sleep. The following morning, just after washing up, one of YangYe¡¯s guards came rushing, ¡°Miss Qiao, His Highness has asked me to take you up the hill.¡±


    ¡°Huh? What happened?¡± Qiao Xiaomai nced at the barely bright sky.


    The sun hadn¡¯t risen yet.


    ¡°Miss, don¡¯t worry, nothing bad will happen with His Highness here. It¡¯s just that General Cen found out that your house is located above the cer, hence His Highness has some questions for you,¡± the guard said.


    Qiao Xiaomai opened her eyes wide, startled, ¡°Is that so?!¡±


    ¡°Yes, hence General Cen wants to ask you a few questions.¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s go then. I¡¯ll inform my father.¡± Qiao Xiaomai turned and went into the house to knock on Qiao Changshun¡¯s door.


    Qiao Changshun was awake by then and was terrified when he heard about it, insisting on apanying them.


    What can Qiao Xiaomai, a young girl, possibly know? He was the head of the household, and these matters should be addressed to him.

 Chapter 412: Arriving at Anping Village

    Chapter 412: Arriving at Anping Vige


    After Qiao Xiaomai finished recounting her family history, Yang Wenxiao put down the tea bowl in his hand, which he hadn¡¯t drunk from and which had already cooled down. He stood up and said, ¡°Go, I will visit your vige tomorrow.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai quickly stood up and responded affirmatively, cautiously exiting the room.


    She would be staying at the Academy tonight, as she needed to prepare breakfast for Yang Wenxiao the next morning.


    This night was destined to be sleepless.


    Yang Wenxiao maybe domineering, but he also seemed amiable.


    He seemed very satisfied with the meals she prepared. Given this, would it be useful if she pleaded on behalf of the Tong Family, no, Tong Sang, Tong Sang it is, would it be useful if she pleaded for Tong Sang¡¯s behalf?


    She spent the whole night tossing and turning.


    Before dawn, she got up and prepared breakfast, making every effort to please the Emperor.


    Yang Wenxiao indeed, was very satisfied with the breakfast. He drank three bowls of the thick, aromatic white rice porridge, despite there being no side dishes.


    After breakfast, Yang Wenxiao got into his imperial pnquin, apanied by his ceremonial guard and entourage, he set off in grand style for Anping Vige.


    Anping Vige had enforced martialw throughout, with everyone confined to their homes and not allowed to go out. Every few steps were soldiers standing guard, fully armed and stationed on every street.


    Tong Tiehu and Tong Sang stood at the entrance of the vige, waiting to greet the Emperor.


    Tong Sang ryed Tong Xingda¡¯s unreliable suggestions to Tong Tiehu, who was so furious that he wished he couldy a hand on someone. Consequently, he forcibly confined Tong Xingda at home to avoid any potential ident caused by his loose lips.


    When Yang Wenxiao¡¯s imperial carriage reached the vige entrance, the two knelt down and paid their respects, ¡°Descendants of Gu Yu, Gu Sheng and Gu Zhan greet the Emperor.¡±


    Gu Sheng was Tong Tiehu¡¯s real name.


    Tong Sang¡¯s official name was Tong Zhan, but upon meeting Yang Wenxiao, he naturally reverted to his original surname, Gu.


    ¡°Rise,¡± the voice of Yang Wenxiao echoed.


    Gao Lian took a step forward and lifted the curtain of the imperial pnquin.


    Upon seeing Tong Tiehu, Yang Wenxiao¡¯s eyes shed with sentiment. This man too, had grown so old.


    ¡°Gu Sheng,e forward,¡± he said.


    Tong Tiehu respectfully responded and briskly walked a few steps to the front of the imperial pnquin.


    Gao Lian frisked him before allowing him to approach the pnquin, ensuring his safety.


    ¡°Let¡¯s head straight to the mountain,¡± Yang Wenxiao instructed Gao Lian, then turned to Tong Tiehu, ¡°How have you been these years?¡±


    ¡°Thanks to Your Majesty, I¡¯ve been well.¡±


    ¡°What does my influence have to do with anything? The emperor is far from heaven,¡± Yang Wenxiao raised his eyebrows.


    ¡°Naturally, it¡¯s because you govern the Daqi so well, ensuring peace and stability for themon people.¡±


    ¡°Yang Wenxiao chuckled. ¡°I¡¯ve heard words of praise so often, my ears are calloused already.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Tong Tiehu felt a jolt in his heart. The Emperor¡¯s words all carry hidden barbs¡­


    The Emperor¡¯s attitude was starkly different from the content of the secret decree.


    ¡°However, there¡¯s truth in what you say. We can leave other ces out of the equation, but at least in Bailu Town, the people livefortably,¡± Yang Wenxiao added.


    For unexined reasons, Bailu Town had enjoyed decades of good weather unaffected by natural disasters such as drought, floods, locust gues, and epidemics that afflicted neighboring areas.


    Moreover, with the esteemed headmaster Gao Lian presiding, there were no cases of people abusing power. Thus, the people of Bailu Town lived even more peacefully than those in the Capital City.


    ¡°Thus, we are blessed by Your Majesty,¡± Tong Tiehu continued their conversation.


    ¡°Why don¡¯t you attribute this to the blessings of the treasure trove instead?¡± Yang Wenxiao asked.


    ¡°Uh¡­ ¡±


    The topic of conversation changed too quickly, leaving Tong Tiehu speechless.


    Indeed, every sentence carried a barb.


    ¡°I heard from Qiao Xiaomai that the treasure was stained with the blood ofmoners and thus carries bad luck. Yet, perhaps because of this powerful curse, Heaven had to counterbnce it with years of good weather.¡±


    ¡°Gu Sheng, what do you think?¡±

 Chapter 383: A Flaw

    Chapter 383: A w


    Trantor: 549690339 |


    Yang Wang nodded, then continued to ask, ¡°You are the vige chief, have you ever heard of this secret tunnel?¡±


    ¡°In response to your Highness, I have not heard of it. Over the years, I¡¯ve also never heard any movements,¡± Tong Tiehu replied. @@novelbin@@


    Yang Wang turned to look at Qiao Xiaomai. Gazing at her tender, charming face, his furrowed brow rxed, and his tone became softer. ¡°Miss Qiao, your house is right above this basement. Over the years, have you heard any noises?¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai shook her head. ¡°In response to your Highness, I have not heard of it.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Qiao Changshun, somewhat nervous, rubbed hisrge hands together and took the initiative to speak. ¡°Your Highness, I, I also haven¡¯t heard anything. Last year when my family was building a house, digging the foundation, we didn¡¯t discover anything.¡±


    At his words, Yang Wang looked at him, creasing his eyebrows again.


    Cen Hong looked at all the vigers present and asked, ¡°The construction of this secret tunnel couldn¡¯t have been aplished in a day. How is it possible that none of you in the entire vige knew anything about such a huge undertaking?¡±


    ¡°In response to the general, we did not know,¡± Tong Tiehu respectfully replied.


    ¡°Tong Sang, what about you? You know martial arts; you didn¡¯t hear this colossalmotion?¡± Cen Hong turned to Tong Sang, his eyes steeped with gloom.


    Tong Sang had struck him and disrupted his n, forcing him to take action personally. This was a deeply ingrained grudge indeed.


    ¡°In response to the general, I¡¯m only 17 years old. When this tunnel was being built, I wasn¡¯t even born,¡± Tong Sang replied emotionlessly, matching Cen Hong¡¯s gaze.


    Cen Hong snorted, ¡°What about the noise of them transporting things?¡±


    ¡°I often go hunting in the mountains, I have never heard any sounds,¡± replied Tong Sang.


    Upon hearing this, Cen Hong fell silent, his gaze shing like a venomous snake, cold and ferocious.


    Tong Sang showed no sign of fear, standing tall with a straight back.


    Cen Hong gritted his teeth, shifted his gaze, and began to question other vige elders.


    These elders naturally knew nothing. After a full round of questioning, no conclusion was reached.


    ¡°Alright, since there is nothing to find out, let them all go,¡± Yang Ye, who had been sitting quietly most of the time, finally spoke.


    His expression wasn¡¯t pleasant. He was already annoyed from questioning these people without breakfast.


    Yang Wang waved his hand. ¡°Everyone can leave.¡±


    His expression didn¡¯t look good either.


    Initially, he only wanted to nab Qiao Xiaomai, but unexpectedly, he stumbled upon this secret tunnel.


    Treasure from the previous dynasty!


    With this cache of treasure, what significant was Qiao Xiaomai!


    But the problem was that the treasure had vanished. It was gone!


    It had vanished once while at the Qingyi Manor, and now it¡¯s urred again!


    How did things get soplicated once that woman got involved!


    Soon, Qiao Xiaomai and the others descended the mountain, including Yang Ye, who also departed.


    Yang Wang and Cen Hong stood at the entrance of the secret tunnel, their expressions both somber and dark as water.


    ¡°General Cen, what do you think?¡± Yang Wang asked.


    ¡°I have not discovered any ws,¡± replied Cen Hong.


    ¡°However, the traces of dust on the floor of the basement suggest that the treasure must have been moved recently,¡± Yang Wang added.


    When the secret tunnel was discovered, he, Yang Ye, Ma Dongshu, and others entered and found the long passage full of dust. Their faces were grimy and disheveled by the time they reached the basement.


    However, strangely, there was only floating dust in the air within the basement, while the floor was incredibly clean.


    Apart from the dust brought in by their shoes, the brick ground was as clean as if it was new.


    This was indeed strange.


    Even stranger, the surrounding areas of the basement near the walls, about a finger¡¯s width, were covered in dust just like in the tunnel.


    It was as if a room that hadn¡¯t seen daylight for many years had an item moved from it. Both the room and the item were covered in dust. When this item was suddenly moved away, the ground beneath it was spotless.


    Therefore, it seemed like the treasure in the basement had been moved entirely.


    And it had urred within the past few days.

 Chapter 413: Up the Mountain

    Chapter 413: Up the Mountain


    TongTiehu


    He chuckled a few times, ¡°You should say so.¡±


    ¡°But now that batch of treasures is gone, without the evil aura to suppress it, wouldn¡¯t heaven take away the harmony and prosperity of this ce?¡± Yang Wenxiao asked again.


    TongTiehu ¡°¡­¡±


    A cold sweat broke out on his back.


    The loss of the treasure was indeed his fault.


    He gritted his teeth and said,¡±Your Majesty, I honestly don¡¯t know where the treasure has gone.¡±


    ¡°Hmm, you hardly know anything, I noticed that,¡± Yang Wenxiao nodded.


    TongTiehu ¡°¡­¡±


    Every word hurt deeply.


    It was hard to believe that the Emperor Emeritus is an eighty-nine-year-old man, his quick wits and sarcasm were not lost to the younger ones.


    ¡°Tell me about your childhood,¡± said Yang Wenxiao again.


    Tong Tiehu stretched his head, not aware of the focus of Yang Wenxiao¡¯s words.


    The matters of his childhood, was he supposed to talk about his father?


    That¡¯s simple to tell, life was good before that woman showed up, he was thewful son. Although there were half-brothers and half-sisters, it did not threaten his position.


    Until that woman appeared and ensnared his father.


    Then, for him as a child, the sky had fallen.


    He was sent to a small town by the East Sea, and he was stranded. His mother spent the whole day crying and being mncholic, he was only six then, and lived each day delicately.


    After enduring for a few years, suddenly one day, that woman sent someone to fetch him.


    Then he came here.


    He came to Anping Vige, that woman treated him well, she treated him as her own son, and even left him some people.


    Tingfeng Pavilion was built by that woman.


    However, that woman died too early.


    Perhaps, if she had been alive, he would have treated her as his mother too.


    But there¡¯s no if.


    When Tong Tiehu finished with his few childhood memories, the royal carriage arrived at the foot of the hill, Yang Wenxiao got off the carriage, intending to walk up the mountain.


    ¡°Grandpa Emperor, the mountain path has been repaired, you can take the carriage up the mountain.¡± Yang Ye was worried that his health wouldn¡¯t bear it, and hurriedly persuaded him.


    ¡°No need, I want to walk.¡± Yang Wenxiao waved his hand, turned and looked at Tong Tiehu, ¡°Gu Sheng, do you hate her?¡±


    Tong Tiehu hurriedly said, ¡°No hatred.¡±


    ¡°You really don¡¯t hate her?¡± Yang Wenxiao smiled, took the cane Gao Lian handed him, and set foot on the steps.


    Tong Tiehu followed behind, ¡°I harbored hatred during my childhood, but now, after decades, I don¡¯t hate her anymore.¡±


    If he was to hate, it should be his father.


    His father had several women apart from his mother, he had seen through his father¡¯s favoritism and wife-ying.


    The main problem lies with men.


    Yang Wenxiao nodded in agreement after hearing, ¡°That¡¯s true, decades of time, is enough to grind away the hatred.¡±


    But, hatred can be ground away.


    Longing cannot.


    With the passage of time, longing only deepens.


    He gave a self-deprecating smile and looked around.


    Rooster Mountain only has an altitude of more than five hundred meters, not high, the trees growing on it are also verymon, he has always been puzzled, why would she have chosen to live here?


    Thend of Daqi is vast, with beautiful scenery, why has she chosen here?


    This is an unsolved mystery.


    Did she, back in the day, often travel in the mountains?


    Were thend he was stepping on also stepped on by her?


    He didn¡¯t know.


    He had no answer.


    ¡°Gu Sheng, speak of her, how did she teach you back then?¡± He opened his mouth again.


    Tong Tiehu obeyed, cut off part of Tong Liu, and talked about a few details.


    With his narration, the party soon arrived at the secret tunnel.

 Chapter 414: Account Books and Ledgers

    Chapter 414: ount Books and Ledgers


    The area near the secret tunnel had undergone major changes, with arge open space cleared out and soldiers guarding the surroundings.


    Yang Wang drew closer, ¡°Grandpa Emperor, would you like to take a break and have some tea?¡±


    ¡°Grandpa Emperor, let¡¯s take a rest.¡± Yang Ye also chimed in.


    Yang Wenxiao grunted in affirmation, nced around and took a seat on the chair.


    Despite the cool mountain air, the summer heat had caused a thinyer of sweat to form on his body as he arrived near the secret tunnel.


    A maid came over with a teapot and poured him some tea.


    ¡°Gu Sheng, sit.¡± Yang Wenxiao pointed to a chair nearby.


    Tong Tiehu quickly waved his hand in refusal, but after a stern nce from Yang Wenxiao, he hurriedly sat down carefully.


    ¡°Where is the ount book for disaster relief?¡± Yang Wenxiao asked.


    Tong Tiehu looked quickly towards Tong Sang, who was standing nearby with Qiao Xiaomai.


    Tong Sang stepped forward, opened the cloth bag he was holding, and respectfully said, ¡°Every expenditure for the thirty million taels of silver and the full ount of the treasure are all in here.¡±


    Yang Ye took over the bag of cloth and passed it to Yang Wenxiao.


    Even though the ount book was well-preserved, one could tell at a nce that it had weathered many years.


    Yang Wenxiao opened the topmost book, and what entered his eyes were the distorted brush strokes, causing him to pause, his heart filled with a mix of emotions.


    With a silent sigh, he focused his eyes on the content.


    The first entry read: In the first year of the Great Cause era, the southeastern province of Yangling suffered a flood. Fifty thousand taels of silver were used to purchase food and set up gruel sheds to aid the victims.


    The Great Cause, it was the reign title Yang Wenxiao used during his time as Emperor.


    In the first year of the Great Cause, his first year as Emperor, Yangling, which was at the southeastern border of Daqi, suffered from a disaster. At that time, Daqi was newly founded and national treasury was depleted. The disaster was finally relieved from his own private fund.


    Unexpectedly, that person had been secretly helping him ever since his first year as Emperor.


    Those were events that urred fifty years ago, memories of which had be somewhat blurred.


    But now these incidents were forcefully brought back to his mind in this way, catching him off guard.


    A surge of warmth coursed within his chest, and his eyes also began to heat up, his hand holding the book trembling slightly.


    ¡°Little Yezi,e, read it.¡± Yang Wenxiao closed his eyes.


    Yang Ye swiftly took over the ount book, looking worriedly at Yang Wenxiao, ¡°Grandpa Emperor, are you okay?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m fine, just a bit tired.¡±


    Seeing that his expression did not seem gravely unwell, Yang Ye bowed his head to read the ount book, only to be met with the distorted brushstrokes. The writing was even worse than when he first held a brush.


    Clearing his throat, he began to read:


    In the first year of the Great Cause era, Jiangdong Prefecture suffered a snow disaster. One hundred thousand taels of silver were used to purchase grains and clothes to aid the people.


    In the spring of the third year of the Great Cause era, Chuanyu Prefecture suffered a flood. Tens of thousands of fields were submerged, causing crop failure. Three hundred thousand taels of silver were used to purchase grains to aid the victims.


    In the spring of the third year of the Great Cause era, Heshi Prefecture suffered from a locust gue. The locusts destroyed all vegetation wherever they passed. Four hundred thousand taels of silver were used to purchase grains and seeds to distribute to the victims.


    In the autumn of the third year of the Great Cause era¡­


    In the winter of the third year of the Great Cause era¡­


    Yang Ye grew more and more astonished as he read.


    So many disasters happened in the third year of the Great Cause era?


    In just one year, the Tong Family had used one million taels of silver for disaster relief.


    Moreover, during disaster relief, human and material resources were definitely required, all of which needed silver.


    When Tong Tiehu first disclosed the figure of thirty million taels of silver, he merely considered it a number. But now, looking at this ount book, that unassuming number suddenly came alive.


    How much sorrow and bloodshed of themon people did it conceal behind?


    How many people were making silent sacrifices behind it?


    Moreover, with so many sessive disasters, how did his Grandpa Emperor manage to hold on?


    The Aristocratic Families must have taken advantage of the situation, right?


    Those must have been incredibly difficult times, right?

 Chapter 415: Losing the Treasure is a Major Mistake

    Chapter 415: Losing the Treasure is a Major Mistake


    Yang Ye gathered his thoughts and continued reading.


    By the time he finished reading the thick ledger, his throat was already hoarse.


    As the ledger closed, a maid immediately served a cup of chilled, sweet and sour plum soup.


    The sour plum soup, which had been iced all along, was just perfect for this moment.


    He didn¡¯t ask for a cup, but started drinking in big gulps directly from the exquisite teapot.


    The sour plum soup went down, taking away both the heat and his annoyance.


    Good heavens, this ledger was essentially a record of Daqi¡¯s cmities. It was so depressing to read!


    Yang Wenxiao opened his eyes and nced at everyone, his gaze finally settling on Yang Wang, ¡°Wang, tell me, what would have happened to my and your father¡¯s throne these years without the Tong Family¡¯s silent disaster relief?¡±


    Yang Wang was taken aback, his mind spinning quickly. He immediately responded, ¡°Grandpa Emperor, you and father are wise and martial. What the Tong Family has done is merely icing on the cake. Even without their disaster relief, our Yang Family¡¯s reign over Mount Jiang would still be firm.¡±


    Hearing this, Yang Wenxiao raised an eyebrow, ¡°This is not icing on the cake, but sending charcoal in snowy weather. What would have happened if those disaster-stricken people had not been properly relocated? Have you forgotten how our Yang Family won this world?¡±


    Yang Wang clenched his teeth.


    He hadn¡¯t forgotten.


    He also understood what Yang Wenxiao meant at this moment.


    Even though the Tong Family lost the treasure, their actions over the years had contributed significantly.


    However, he was not willing to admit this.


    Compared to the entire treasure, thirty million taels of silver was insignificant. Anyone with a brain could make out the difference.


    Well, forget it.


    Putting aside the grudges with the Tong Family for the time being, pleasing Grand Emperor was the priority.


    If he wanted to squeeze out the crown prince, he had to gain the approval of the Grand Emperor.


    And there was Cen Hong. Cen Hong was his trusted lieutenant, but due to his momentary negligence, he had been demoted from the rank of a grand general to a minor county magistrate of Huai¡¯an County.


    He had to get promoted again!


    Clenching his teeth, he echoed, ¡°Grandpa Emperor makes sense, the Tong Family does contribute to Daqi.¡±


    Yang Wenxiao grunted in affirmation, ¡°However, even though they have contributed, the loss of the treasure is a major error.¡±


    TongTiehu,


    The treasure was theirs, it was theirs!


    What kind of mistake was it to lose their own things?


    Even he didn¡¯t care about it!


    The Grand Emperor was clearly oppressing them with royal power!


    Seeing his thoughts, Yang Wenxiao raised an eyebrow and said, ¡°Your mother said that the treasure was taken from the people, so it should be used for the people. Although your Gu Family seized this treasure, in the end, it belongs to the broad masses of the people.¡±


    ¡°But now, the treasure is gone and can¡¯t be used for the people.¡±


    ¡°Gu Sheng, don¡¯t you think this is a fault?¡±


    ¡°Also, Xiaomai once said that this treasure was confiscated from the people by the former emperor whose state had copsed. It is stained with the blood of the people and is thus ominous. Now that such arge amount of ominous things have disappeared, what if God takes away the favorable weather from Bailu Town? What then?¡±


    TongTiehu,


    Although it seemingly made some sense, if they wanted to use him, they could always find an excuse!


    Clenching his teeth, he responded, ¡°If the Gu Family is at fault, please punish us, Grand Emperor.¡±


    ¡°Punishment is inevitable. However, the more important thing now is to see if there is any chance of retrieving the treasure. If it can be found, the punishment can be lessened,¡± Yang Wenxiao added.


    Upon hearing this, Yang Wang was overjoyed, ¡°Grandpa Emperor, the treasure is likely still in Anping Vige. As long as we dig up Anping Vige, we will find the treasure!¡±

 Chapter 416: Enter the Secret Tunnel

    Chapter 416: Enter the Secret Tunnel


    Yang Wang had always firmly believed that there were no ghosts or gods in this world. Any so-called disappearance was simply due to mechanisms that he was not aware of.


    Such arge batch of treasure could not have been transported out without a sound, so the treasure must still be in Anping Vige.


    The trenches he dug were incredibly useful!


    Upon hearing this, Yang Wenxiao nced at him sideways, ¡°Let¡¯s first take a look in the secret tunnel.¡±


    ¡°Alright.¡± Yang Wang waved his hand, and Hu Tian immediately came forward and handed him the brick, ¡°Grandpa Emperor, this blood-stained brick is evidence enough.¡±


    Yang Wenxiao¡¯s gaze lingered on the brick for a moment and then nodded, ¡°Hmm, let¡¯s look into the secret tunnel.¡±


    With that, he stood up.


    Seeing this, Yang Ye signaled, and immediately a guard came forward carrying a simple pnquin.


    Going up the mountain was one thing, the former emperor could manage.


    However, this secret tunnel stretched underground for more than ten miles ¡ª far too long, a pnquin was necessary.


    And it wasn¡¯t just the former emperor who was prepared a pnquin, the dean of the valley had one too.


    Yang Wenxiao waved his hand, ¡°First, let¡¯s go in and take a look.¡±


    Her suicide note mentioned the secret tunnel, but he had not yet gone in to see it.


    Finally, havinge all this way, he wanted to carefully examine this secret tunnel rumored to have been built with divine skill.


    With Yang Wenxiao leading, the group ventured into the secret tunnel.


    All the bricks were neatly arranged, extending as far as the eye could see.


    Torches illuminated the tunnel as if it were daylight. Yang Wenxiao reached out and gently ced his hands on the side wall.


    The bricks felt very smooth, and although they looked like y bricks used by the poor to build houses, he well understood their toughness.


    Impervious to sword or dagger.


    It seemed that only gunpowder could destroy them.


    Anything she touched turned exceptional, there were no mediocre items from her.


    He couldn¡¯t see through her, too many mysteries surrounded her like a mist, preserving her aura of mystery.


    The miraculous bowl of rice.


    The recipe for gunpowder.


    How she managed to hide such arge batch of treasures from Fu Xuan¡¯s sight.


    How she built such a masterful secret tunnel.


    Unsolved.


    All of this remained unsolved.


    She was like a being that didn¡¯t belong to this world, like a fairy who had fallen into the mortal realm.


    A fairy¡¯s techniques are naturally startling and inexplicable.


    With a sigh, he slowly moved forward.


    A quarter of an hourter, both he and the dean of the valley had mounted the pnquin.


    Yang Wang followed by his side, carefully ttering him, ¡°Grandpa Emperor, these bricks are so tough, why not dig them up and bring them back to the Capital City? If used on the city walls, they would be like imprable armor.¡±


    Hearing this, Yang Wenxiao nced at him andughed, ¡°What, do you think Capital City¡¯s defenses are not strong enough?¡±


    ¡°In such matters, the stronger the better. Leaving these bricks in such a small mountain vige seems to be a waste,¡± said Yang Wang.


    Once the treasure matter was settled, this secret tunnel would definitely be sealed up.


    Burying so many bricks underground was too wasteful.


    ¡°We¡¯ll discuss thister.¡± Yang Wenxiao did not respond directly.


    Overhearing this from behind, Qiao Xiaomai couldn¡¯t help grinding her teeth.


    This Yang Wang was too hateful; he never abandoned the idea of digging up her home.


    Damn!


    ¡°Qiao Xiaomai,e here.¡± Just as she was cursing in her heart, Yang Wenxiao suddenly called out.


    She was startled and quickly regained herposure, revealing a deceptive smile. She hurried over, ¡°I¡¯m here.¡±


    ¡°Qiao Xiaomai, this underground depot is right under your house, and the depot roof happened to have that brick, what do you think could be the most likely situation?¡± Yang Wenxiao asked.


    ¡°Um¡­ To answer His Highness, when I first heard about this, my first thought was¡­¡± She paused.


    ¡°What was it?¡±


    ¡°I was reminded of the incident at Qingyi Manor¡­ perhaps, Grandpa Tong¡¯s mother is still alive?¡±

 Chapter 388: Because This is Fate

    Chapter 388: Because This is Fate


    Trantor: 549690339 |


    ¡°What?¡± Yang Ye asked.


    ¡°An earthquake has urred in Shuifeng Prefecture to the west of Rooster Mountain, shaking the earth and sending tremors to Rooster Mountain, hence the cracks in the secret tunnel. Because it was night and the shaking was blocked by Rooster Mountain, people in Anping Vige didn¡¯t notice the quake.¡±


    ¡°However, with the earth shaking, Shuifeng Prefecture has suffered terrible damage. Countless people in the Prefecture City were buried under rubble and numerous homes were destroyed. Such a huge natural disaster requires this batch of treasures for disaster relief.¡±


    Yang Ye ¡°¡­¡±


    Damn!


    Qiao Xiaomai¡±¡­¡±


    God damn it!


    Holy crap, was it that obvious?


    It wasn¡¯t man-made but a natural disaster!


    TongTiehu ¡°¡­¡±


    Your old blood is stuck in your throat, really gonna suffocate yourself to internal injuries!


    Yang Wang also looked shocked, ¡°General Cen, is this news true?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s true. I just received the news too. An entire Prefecture City was destroyed; the Court has to open the National Treasury for disaster relief. Prince, you¡¯re in charge of the household department, you know exactly how much silver the National Treasury has right now. This natural disaster has once again brought a heavy burden to our Daqi.¡±


    Yang Wang sighed, ¡°Looking at it this way, this treasure must indeed be found.¡±


    He weighed the brick in his hand and looked at Yang Ye, ¡°Fourth Brother, what do you say?¡±


    Yang Ye ¡°¡­¡±


    What can he say?


    What could he say under these circumstances?


    At the beginning of the year, he went to Qinglu Prefecture to treat the snow disaster and it took several months.


    The snow disaster was hard on the people due to the freezing cold, and he was in a rush then, always having an elusive unease in his heart during meals.


    Now it¡¯s the earth shaking. That¡¯s far more severe than a snow disaster.


    Shuifeng Prefecture¡­ What a living hell it must be at this point!


    Seeing Yang Ye hesitating, Qiao Xiaomai was immediately anxious.


    To be precise, she had been on edge ever since she found out Cen Hong was going to dig up the vige.


    At least before Yang Ye was standing in the way. Now that Yang Ye was silent, no one could stop Cen Hong and Yang Wang! @@novelbin@@


    The first to be dug up would be her house. Were there any peculiarities in the dirt pit she had dug up before?


    The Tong Family¡¯s secret tunnel was bound to be discovered!


    At this thought, her gaze shifted and fell on Tong Sang, her eyes determined.


    Tong Sang met her gaze calmly, standing tall.


    He understood Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s meaning. On the way to the vige entrance earlier, Tong Tiehu had also hinted at him to leave.


    Leave, of course, he had the ability to leave.


    But after leaving, would he have to live under the wanted order of the Yang Family and the pain of his whole family¡¯s death? And to calmly watch Qiao Xiaomai get married and have children?


    What¡¯s the point of such a life?


    Not leave, and stay here.


    Die, with his family.


    His nonchnt attitude irritated Qiao Xiaomai so much that she wanted to bite her teeth in anger. But with so many people watching, she could only muster a forced smile and said to Yang Wang, ¡°Who could have thought that just a while ago we were eating lunch in the courtyard, and now our home is about to be gone.¡±


    ¡°Miss, don¡¯t worry, I willpensate you with silver, one thousand taels, what do you think?¡± Yang Wang said.


    Although Qiao Xiaomai could not bepared with the treasure, if she could have both, that would still be good.


    So she needed to maintain herposure at this point.


    Upon hearing this, the smile on Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s face became a bit more unnatural. ¡°Your Highness, as long as you justlypensate me, the extra silver should be used for disaster relief.¡±


    ¡°No, it¡¯s only right topensate you for your inconvenience,¡± Yang Wang said, looking at Yang Ye. ¡°Notify the vigers, tell them to pack up their belongings quickly ¡ª these soldiers, five thousand to dig the vige, five thousand to set up tents in the fields.¡±

 Chapter 418:1 Know All About Your Rebellion Plot

    Chapter 418:1 Know All About Your Rebellion Plot


    At those words, Tong Tiehu¡¯s face turned as pale as ash, his body shuddered a few times, and his legs gave out, causing him to involuntarily fall.


    Tingfeng Pavilion!


    Jiwei Residence!


    He had no inkling how much the Grand Emperor knew before, therefore he had always thought that as long as the Grand Emperor failed to produce evidence of his rebellion, he would stubbornly deny it.


    What was the Grand Emperor saying now?


    The Grand Emperor was mentioning Tingfeng Pavilion and Jiwei Residence, this implied that the Grand Emperor knew everything!


    Good heavens!


    Tong Third son, who was standing beside him, quickly steadied him after seeing this.


    Yang Wenxiao saw his reaction and chuckled, ¡°Don¡¯t be afraid. Your younger brother, Prime Minister Yu Ang; I do understand his rebellious ns that your mother had arranged for him.¡±


    ¡°To aid me in dealing with all those defiant Aristocratic Families.¡±


    The Aristocratic Families, existing for hundreds of years, have their power permeating all facets of Daqi.


    He managed to keep those Aristocratic Families in check by relying on gunpowder and his elite troops, but he knew that they were not genuinely submissive, and detested him as an emperor of lowly origin.


    However, he couldn¡¯t obliterate all those people.


    The officials of Daqi regions were predominantly from these Aristocratic Families, if he were to destroy them, who would administrate at the grassroots level for him?


    They can¡¯t be obliterated.


    With the threat of gunpowder and elite troops, those Aristocratic Families, although engaged in asional subversive actions, dared not to overstep the line.


    Hence, a subtle bnce was achieved between the two parties.


    He vigorously promoted the Imperial Examination, elevating the schrs not from Aristocratic Families, hoping to slowly rece those local officials.


    Although his n was pursued with difficulty, there was a certain degree of sess after several decades.


    Then he found her, found out about her n.


    She nned to use this batch of treasures to attract all the Aristocratic Families here, and let them fight each other for the treasure. Not necessarily killing each other, but this ce was far away from the emperor¡¯s reach. He had the gunpowder, he could blow them all up at once and uproot those Aristocratic Families.


    This n was quite good and he agreed with it considerably, so the treasure map started to circte in the world.


    This was a slow process, but fortunately, the final goal was all situated in this direction.


    But unexpectedly, Yang Ye was the first one to find this ce, incidentally drawing Yang Wang and Cen Hong here too.


    None of the people from Aristocratic Families arrived.


    The ones who shouldn¡¯t havee, came; the ones who should havee didn¡¯te at all.


    The n that he and she worked on for twenty years turned out to be aplete failure.


    How frustrating it was.


    However, fortunately, this batch of treasures was currently missing.


    Since they were missing, this n could still proceed.


    ¡°It¡¯s a pity that this n didn¡¯t achieve its original purpose.¡± Yang Wenxiao sighed.


    TongTiehu ¡°¡­¡±


    Tong Third son ¡°¡­¡±


    This conversation carried a great deal of information.


    The two men were stunned, and it took them quite a while to digest it thoroughly.


    Once Tong Tiehu understood what exactly was happening, he couldn¡¯t help but feel like crying. My dear mother, since this rebellion was a sham, why couldn¡¯t you inform me beforehand?


    If he had been informed earlier, he would have definitely put forth his best efforts to y along, he surely would have.


    Do you know how hard andplicated his life has been?


    A child of ten, burdened with the great responsibility of avenging his father¡¯s death and plotting a rebellion, how hard it had been for him.


    Both physically and mentally, his life was quite tolling.


    His grandson also lived a hard life because of it, even afraid to marry.


    When facing the woman he loved, he wished he could lower his head into the dust, desiring to burn himself solely for her, such a sight was heart-wrenching.


    iming that they had to avenge their father¡¯s death and to fulfill the unaplished grand enterprise of their ancestors, under such a heavy and great banner, what was the truth?


    Truth was, they were nning for the future of the Yang Family¡¯s Mount Jiang!


    It was indeed not my birth mother.


    Only a stepmother would dare to use and torment him the way she did his whole life.


    Sorrowful, so sorrowful indeed.

 Chapter 419: Confiscation of Family Property

    Chapter 419: Confiscation of Family Property


    Tong Sang recalled the pressure and burdens he had borne since childhood, and he couldn¡¯t help but feel aggrieved.


    ¡°This ¡°little mistress,¡± our matriarch, she really is¡­


    Sure enough, she wasn¡¯t born of this family!


    Yang Wenxiao saw the pair¡¯s reactions, he turned around and sat back in the pnquin. Smiling, he continued, ¡°Don¡¯t feel wronged, the fewer people who know about such a matter, the better.¡±


    Tong Tiehu clenched his teeth and trembled as he spoke, ¡°You¡¯re right.¡±


    ¡°Although the treasure is now missing, the n must continue,¡± said Yang Wenxiao.


    ¡°You¡¯re right,¡± Tong Tiehu replied. He took a deep breath, and with Tong Sang¡¯s support, he forced himself to stand upright.


    ¡°When I return to the Capital City, I will continue to spread rumors that the treasure has been moved. I will select a new location in order to lure all of those people away. Rest assured, it will not affect your future lives,¡± he reassured the Tong Family.


    ¡°But,¡± he continued, ¡°there will undoubtedly be some who will remain persistent, looking to investigate further. Therefore, I will not seal this secret tunnel, but let it lie open. Anyone who wants to look, may do so. By being openhearted, we can extract your family from this vortex.¡±


    ¡°My Yang Family and the rest of the Aristocratic Families, will continue our struggle. Your Tong family will refrain from engaging. However, the Chancellor in the Capital City should be involved.¡±


    ¡°So, today¡¯s discussion, you should ry to the Chancellor. Ask him to continue colluding with the Vice-Chancellor ording to your mother¡¯s n, understand?¡±


    ¡°Understood,¡± TongTiehu responded tremblingly.


    ¡°Alt, thatss Qiao Xiaomai, your grandson fancies her, doesn¡¯t he?¡± Yang Wenxiao asked.


    This abrupt change of subject left Tong Tiehu stunned momentarily before he nodded, ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°Well then, they should get married,¡± he said.


    ¡°What?¡± Tong Tiehu was stunned.


    What¡¯s the meaning of this?


    Why would His Majesty bother meddling in his grandson¡¯s marriage?


    Tong Sang was equally clueless; he didn¡¯t believe his presence could carry so much weight.


    Seeing the confusion on their faces, Yang Wenxiao chuckled, ¡°She¡¯s a little wealth goddess. If Sang is unwilling to marry her, I may bring her back to the pce to serve in the Imperial Kitchen.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Tong Sang hurriedly replied, ¡°Your Majesty, I am willing to marry, willing to marry!¡±


    ¡°Good, very good.¡± Yang Wenxiao seemed satisfied.


    ¡°However,¡± he continued, ¡°the loss of the treasure was indeed due to your negligence. How much silver have you umted over the years?¡±


    Tong Tiehu was silent for a moment before he reluctantly replied, ¡°Several hundreds of thousands of taels.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s all?¡± Yang Wenxiao was surprised.


    ¡°Ting Feng Pavilion doesn¡¯t profit much and the extreme vor residence is inpetition with Zuixian Building. Besides, the Chancellor needs silver for certain activities¡­¡± Consolidating loyal subordinates, this requires silver. Else, why would people choose to follow him?


    Yang Wenxiao nodded, ¡°Then transfer all you have now as a part of the punishment for losing the treasure. Going by your mother¡¯s intentions, the treasure was always meant for the welfare of the people. This concept I approve of. I am not going to keep a single coin. Your silver will be used for the disaster relief of Shuifeng Prefecture.¡±


    Although he was sure her heir had taken the treasure, without witnessing it personally, it was impossible to bepletely rxed.


    The people of the Tong Family standing before him were oneyer, or generation removed from his own family. They were descendants of Gu Yu, not of his own lineage.


    ¡°Rest assured, if the treasure is found in the future, your silver will be returned in full¡±


    Tong Tiehu sighed inwardly. He understood. His Majesty suspected him of hiding the treasure and was first using the family silver to make up for it.


    Well, Yang Wenxiao was His Majesty. Whatever His Majesty dered, would be so.


    He epted this punishment.


    ¡°Moreover, to make it apparent to all, to show that your Tong Family has indeed distanced itself from this vortex, not just your savings over these years, but even the visible properties of the Tong Family have to be confiscated. Like the vinegar shop in your town, and your fields,¡± said Yang Wenxiao.


    ¡°From now on, keep away from Tingfeng Pavilion and the Extreme vor Lodge. You are not a descendant of Prince Pingnan, you are a simple old farmer from Anping Vige.¡±


    ¡°Yes, Your Majesty.¡± Tong Tiehu¡¯s face was ashen.


    Yes, this was a good oue.


    At least all the members of his family were safe.


    ¡°That¡¯s it then. Whenever the treasure is found, the silver collected from your family will be returned to you,¡± said Yang Wenxiao.


    Tong Tiehu clenched his teeth and agreed.


    [His Majesty doesn¡¯t trust the Tong Family, so he took the family¡¯s wealth as coteral for the treasure. After all, the Tong Family are not her direct descendants.


    Emperors are always suspicious.]

 Chapter 391: Content of the Secret Decree

    Chapter 391: Content of the Secret Decree


    Upon hearing this, Valley Chief remained calm andposed, saying leisurely, ¡°Your Highness Prince Duan, His Majesty the retired emperor dered twenty years ago that no matter what circumstances ensue, all matters rting to Anping Vige and the Tong Family are to be handled by him.¡±


    ¡°The retired emperor has not left the Capital City for over ten years. But now, for the sake of the Tong Family, he is about to make a move. Are you really going to contradict his Majesty¡¯s explicit orders?¡±


    The retired emperor, who has not left the Capital City for over a decade, was about to make a move on behalf of the Tong Family. The importance of the Tong Family was self-evident to anyone with the slightest discernment. @@novelbin@@


    And besides, it was clear that the retired emperor¡¯s words meant there was a rtion between the Tong Family and the treasure.


    So why not question the Tong Family directly instead of digging up the vige?


    Yang Wang failed to perceive the subtlety in Valley Chief¡¯s words. Gritting his teeth, he argued, ¡°What if the treasure cannot truly be redeemed? Who will bear the great losses then?¡±


    ¡°I assure you, my only aim is to unearth the treasure by digging in the vige. I swear not to disturb anything else. As Grandpa Emperor has instructed specifically about the Tong family, I will absolutely refrain from disturbing them. I will only dig up the vige.¡±


    Seeing this, Valley Chief sighed internally that Yang Wang was as uncarvable as a block of rotten wood. Turning to Yang Ye he said, ¡°Your Highness Prince Wei, His Majesty presented you with a secret decree a while ago, instructing you to open it when situations go out of control. In my view, that moment has arrived.¡±


    Yang Ye was silent.


    He pped his forehead in frustration; he had been flooded with so many messages that he hadpletely forgotten about that royal decree.


    Initially, he had agreed to dig up the vige after hearing Yang Wang¡¯s reasons.


    But now Valley Chief brought forth his grandpa emperor¡¯s instruction from twenty years ago, and naturally, he must heed his grandpa emperor¡¯s words.


    His grandpa emperor knew of the problems with the Tong Family and had found this batch of treasure twenty years ago. How wise!


    Must listen to grandpa emperor!


    With this thought in mind, he turned to his guard andmanded, ¡°Go retrieve that secret royal decree.¡±


    He brought the decree with him during his stay in Anping Vige, anticipating Cen Hong¡¯s reckless behavior, it coulde in handy.


    Now, it was indeed useful!


    However, he was surprised that Valley Chief was aware of the secret decree. It appeared that Valley Chief truly was a trusted aide to his grandpa emperor and his own father, the current emperor.


    While thinking along these lines, Yang Ye looked at the Valley Chief, his thoughts straying a bit.


    Whilst Yang Wang and Cen Hong exchanged nces, a sense of foreboding welled up in their hearts.


    A secret decree?


    His majesty the Emperor had secretly sent Yang Ye a decree?


    When did that happen?


    And why should it be opened when the situation is out of control? What does that mean?


    Taking a deep breath, Yang Wang looked at Yang Ye, ¡°Fourth Brother, what secret decree are you talking about and when did this happen?¡±


    ¡°Remember when the Vige Chief of Tong turned sixty and General Cen forced Aunt Qiao to recognize the wily woman from the Sun family? It was then.¡±


    Cen Hong was silent.


    A secret decree followed his demotion?


    Yang Wang was naturally shocked. However, he had more concerns than Cen Hong, ¡°Why was it given to you?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯d have to ask the emperor about that.¡± Yang Ye gave a dismissive raise of an eyebrow.


    He was confused at the time too.


    A mere Bailu Town, what could possibly go out of control with Valley Chief there?


    It seemed now that he was naive. This decree was meant for this exact day and was targeted at Yang Wang and Cen Hong.


    With this realization, his heavy thoughts lightened a bit.


    Good. It seemed his father, the emperor, also held many grievances against Yang Wang and Cen Hong.


    The displeasure of the emperor.


    Yang Wang and Cen Hong had thought of this too. The duo exchanged nces again, their faces all gloomy and somber.


    Shortly after, Yang Ye¡¯s guard brought the secret decree. The seal on the decree was intact. Yang Ye had never opened it before. He showed everyone the intact seal, broke it, and opened the secret decree.


    Then he froze.


    With a twitch of his mouth, he turned the decree around to face everyone else.


    Everyone looked at it, only to see a simple single line written: Whoever messes with the Tong Family messes with me; bear the consequences yourself.

 Chapter 421: Her Name is Liuli

    Chapter 421: Her Name is Liuli


    The suspended de overhead was gone!


    Qiao Xiaomai stared at Tong Sang in a daze, taking a while toe back to her senses.


    The shock in her eyes turned into a smile, which flowed out from her pupils, filling her entire small face.


    She couldn¡¯t help butugh in great joy, ¡°His Majesty the grand emperor is truly wise and brave!¡±


    I know, so I couldn¡¯t wait toe to you immediately. From now on, we don¡¯t have to avoid each other. We can be together in broad daylight.¡± Tong Sang alsoughed.


    Just like how Qiao Xiaomai picked fatty meat and put it into his bowl, the two wouldn¡¯t have dared to act like this in the past.


    Now they can be bold and unrestrained!


    ¡°Hmm!¡± Qiao Xiaomai nodded heavily with some excitement.


    This is great, this is great!


    This Emperor Emeritus is so understanding and reasonable!


    The understanding Emperor Emeritus, Yang Wenxiao, leaning on his cane, slowly came to a crooked-neck tree.


    A robust crooked-neck locust tree halfway up the mountainside, under which was buried someone¡¯s skeleton.


    Yang Wenxiao asked Yang Ye, Yang Wang and others to retreat. He stood alone before the tree. The sun shone through the leaves onto him, casting mottled light and shadow. A breeze blew, rustling the leaves of the tree.


    ¡°Liuli, I¡¯vee to see you.¡± Yang Wenxiao murmured these words, his usually bright and sharp eyes bing unusually clouded.


    Sighing, he casually sat down.


    ¡°The grass under this tree is growing quite robustly.¡± Yang Wenxiao used his cane to sweep at the wild grasses over a foot tall, ¡°Just like you, you used to seem like you had endless vitality.¡±


    As he spoke, he put down his cane and began to pluck the wild grass, muttering, ¡°Gu Sheng told me that when you came here, you seemed to have aged more than a decade and lost all your spirit.¡±


    ¡°Aging over a decade and losing all spirit, I find it hard to imagine this happening to you.¡±


    At this point, Yang Wenxiao paused; his grass-plucking motions also stopped.


    He touched his chest gently, a self-mocking smile appearing on his face, ¡°Was it because of Gu Yu? Was his death such a blow to you?¡±


    Truthfully, I¡­ envy him¡­¡±


    He sat his hand upon his chest again but said no more, continuing to clear the wild grass under the tree.


    After he had cleared all the wild grass, he sat down again, sighing deeply, ¡°I¡¯ve aged. Even plucking a few pieces of grass feels tiresome.¡±


    ¡°Next time¡­ I suppose there won¡¯t be a next time, huh.¡±


    ¡°Traveling from the Capital City here, this old body of mine can hardly stand it. Luckily, when you gave me a bowl of rice back in the day, I managed to survive. Otherwise, even if I were lucky enough to live on, I wouldn¡¯t have made it to this day.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s all thanks to you that I am what I am today. But you¡­ You didn¡¯t get to see this flourishing world¡­¡±


    The red figure appeared before his eyes again. Yang Wenxiao¡¯s eyes welled up. He lifted his head, looking at the lush foliage of the tree.


    ¡°I wish I could have taken you with me, taken you back to the pce, and had you buried with me when I die. I would be able to see you every day, not like now, where after twenty years, I can only see you once¡­¡±


    ¡°I won this entire world, but I lost you.¡±


    Thinking back to the harrowing journey many years ago, he couldn¡¯t help but clench his teeth, ¡°I don¡¯t understand. Gu Yu had gunpowder, he had elixirs, so why did he lose to Fu Xuan?¡±


    ¡°If I had known this would be Gu Yu¡¯s end, I would have locked you by my side at all costs.¡±


    A missed opportunity was a missed lifetime.


    [Well, His Majesty will leave tomorrow, and then we¡¯ll get back to farming. Happy Children¡¯s Day, my dear little ones! Goodnight!]

 Chapter 393: My Family Really Has No Intention of Rebellion

    Chapter 393: My Family Really Has No Intention of Rebellion


    Tong Tiehu had a troubled look on his face. ¡°If I may, Your Highness, I truly do not know.¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t know? Hmm.¡± Yang Wang sneered. ¡°Then, what rtionship does your Tong family have with Prince Pingnan, Gu Yu?¡±


    ¡°That would be my father.¡± Tong Tiehu hesitated for a moment before honestly answering.


    The retired emperor had been watching their monkey show for twenty years, there was no meaning in withholding the truth.


    It would be best to answer honestly.


    With the imperial decree protecting the Tong family as if it were his own, at least presently, neither Yang Wang nor Cen Hong would darey a finger on them.


    ¡°I see.¡± Yang Ye made a few appreciative clicks with his tongue. ¡°However, since you are a descendant of Gu Yu, does your family safeguard the treasure vault?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°Where are the treasures then?¡±


    ¡°Your highness, I and my third brother are baffled and pained. Those are items my father risked his life to preserve, and yet they have disappeared now. We are filled with indescribable emotions.¡±


    ¡°Nonsensical!¡± Yang Wang scolded in a harsh voice after hearing this. ¡°You im not to know? Are you suggesting the treasures could have possibly grown legs and walked off?!¡±


    ¡°Your Highness, please calm your anger. I truly do not know.¡± Tong Tiehu had an anxious look on his face. ¡°You have seen the underground vault as well. You should know how much treasure it held. My third brother and I are but ordinary men, how could we possibly have moved such arge hoard of treasure without a sound?¡±


    ¡°Obviously, mechanisms must have been exploited!¡± As Yang Wang spoke, he weighed and jingled the earthen brick in his hand. ¡°Then what is the story behind these blood stains? It is clear that this blood is just a few days old!¡±


    ¡°I really don¡¯t know about that.¡± Tong Tiehu continued shaking his head. ¡°Thest time my third brother and I entered that secret tunnel was ten years ago, the dust in the tunnel is more than enough proof of the truth of my im.¡±


    ¡°Ha! So you¡¯re implying that the person who moved the treasures appeared out of thin air?¡± Yang Wang mocked.


    Tong Tiehu continued to shake his head. ¡°Your Highness, I beg your pardon. My third brother and I truly have no knowledge of this.¡±


    ¡°Yet, given that you two are the descendants of Prince Pingnan, Gu Yu, protecting such arge hoard of treasures, what is it that you are nning? Perhaps, are you attempting to finish what Prince Pingnan couldn¡¯t?¡± Cen Hong, who hadn¡¯t spoken much, suddenly stated.


    The question was piercing, straight to the core.


    Upon hearing this, Tong Tiehu wore an utterly terrified expression on his face. ¡°General, you are greatly mistaken! Our Tong family has absolutely no such intention!¡±


    ¡°No? Now that the treasures are hidden, what for if not to rebel?¡± Cen Hong continued to interrogate, his expression dark.


    Tong Tiehu responded gravely, ¡°General, my third brother and I truly know nothing about the whereabouts of the treasures. As for rebelling, that is categorically false.¡±


    Even if there were such ns, he couldn¡¯t admit to them in front of these men.


    Besides, even if the retired emperor himself came, unless he could produce sufficient evidence, Tong Tiehu would not admit to it.


    No matter how much the retired emperor knew, so long as no evidence was presented, he would deny any allegations of rebellion.


    ¡°As for the subject of hiding the treasures, yes, the Tong family has lived here, safeguarding these treasures for several decades. But throughout these decades, the Tong family has donated thirty million taels of silver to disaster relief. If we of the Tong family actually harbored thoughts of rebellion, why would we use our silver to aid the disaster-stricken popce?¡±


    ¡°What?!¡± Yang Wang¡¯s eyes widened in shock.


    Yang Ye also had his phoenix eyes wide open in disbelief while his mouth hung open. @@novelbin@@


    His expression was identical to Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s. One explosive revtion after another, he was finally dumbfounded.


    Cen Hong also looked incredulous. The Tong family had actually donated so much silver for disaster relief?!


    ¡°Here is the ledger. The destination of every piece of silver is clearly recorded. You are wee to examine it, Your Highnesses. We, the Tong family, truly harbor no thoughts of rebellion.¡± Tong Tiehu implored sincerely.

 Chapter 423: Do You Feel Wronged?

    Chapter 423: Do You Feel Wronged?


    The imperial decree imed no detection of the Tong Family¡¯s rebellion nor any connection between the Tong Family and the Prime Minister. It only held onto the fault of the Tong Family losing the hidden treasure and hence the decision to confiscate their property.


    Though the treasure was forcibly seized by Prince Pingnan, it hade from the people.


    If it wasn¡¯t for considering that the Tong Family had already spent thirty million taels on the people, they would have been doomed to imprisonment.


    Losing something that belonged to the people was indeed a mistake!


    The vige was in an uproar when the imperial decree was released.


    These days, vigers knew that there was a secret tunnel in the mountain, which likely held a vast treasure.


    But for them, the key word in this matter was ¡°likely¡±.


    If it might be there, then it was not.


    Even though the Emperor Emeritus had arrived, they had all treated this matter as a tale.


    This kind of story was too distant for them, so distant that they didn¡¯t even entertain the notion that it was truth.


    But now, the Emperor Emeritus has issued an imperial decree, iming the Tong Family was the descendants of Prince Pingnan, that there was indeed a treasure trove in the mountain¡¯s secret tunnel, and that the Tong Family had lost it.


    Who was Prince Pingnan? Hardly anyone knew.


    But a hidden treasure? Wasn¡¯t that too far-fetched?


    Looking at the Tong Family¡¯s daily appearance, they did not seem to be people who had a treasure trove.


    Their farm was not even asrge as Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s. They mostly wore linen clothes, and though they had white flour to eat at every meal, it was normal considering they hadnd and a shop in town.


    This family, whether judged from the top down or bottom up, did not seem to be people who possessed a hidden treasure!


    Not only were the vigers puzzled, but the Tong Family themselves were as well.


    Regarding the treasure, only Tong Tiehu, Tong Xingda, and Tong Sang from the entire Tong Family knew. Everyone else was clueless.


    When the imperial decree came down from Yang Wenxiao, everyone waspletely dumbfounded.


    The treasure was too distant and too alien to them, so they didn¡¯t take it much to heart. What they cared about was their confiscated property.


    Their vinegar shop was sealed off.


    Leading to Tong D and his family having to move back to the vige.


    Their farnd was alsopletely taken.


    Despite having a shop in town, at the end of the day, the Tong Family were country folk, and to such people, thend was their lifeblood.


    The Tong Family had lost almost two hundred acres ofnd, including that which was bestowed upon the Tong men and that which was purchased over the years, all gone in an instant.


    Their family savings were alsopletely taken.


    The Tong Family had never split up. The produce from thend and the ie from the vinegar shop were all managed by Tong Tiehu. Their umtion over decades had amounted to thousands of taels of silver.


    Therefore, previously, Lady Zhang was not afraid of splitting up the family. Knowing that they had a solid foundation, even after the split, their living conditions would still be better than most families in Anping Vige.


    But now, thousands of taels of silver were gone.


    The vinegar shop, thend, the savings,


    These three most important things were gone in a blink of an eye.


    They didn¡¯t enjoy any blessed event when the treasure was there, and now they had to fall from prosperity to barely making ends meet because of their losing of this unknown treasure.


    Without a vinegar shop, without farnd, without any savings, the house only held the thousands of pounds of grain harvested at Mai Shou.


    With just a little bit left, how would they survive the future?


    How would they survive the future!


    And now that their names were posted before the Emperor Emeritus, would he bestow any further punishment when he recalls this matter?


    Heavens!


    Would they have to live in endless fear from now on?


    It¡¯s not fair! It¡¯s just not fair!


    With this in mind, those Tong Family members who were kept in the dark immediately pointed their fingers at Tong Tiehu, Tong Xingda, and Tong Sang.


    In the past, they never dared to do such a thing.


    Now that they suspected they couldn¡¯t make a living anymore, if they didn¡¯t vent their bottled-up anger, they would go crazy!


    When faced with the angry family, Tong Tiehu was surprisingly calm, his face still holding the usual seriousness. He said, ¡°What is it? You feel wronged?¡±

 Chapter 395: Let’s Talk About Gu Yu

    Chapter 395: Let¡¯s Talk About Gu Yu


    The moment Director Gu spoke these words, both Yang Wang and Cen Hong felt like they were going to explode with frustration, unable to utter the excessive words on their minds.


    Their faces shifted back and forth between pale and green, before finally setting on a sickly hue.


    Infuriating, absolutely infuriating. @@novelbin@@


    They had been lingering in Bailu Town for so long, yet they didn¡¯t apprehend Qiao Xiaomai, nor did they find the treasure.


    Furthermore, Cen Hong had been reported by Yang Ye in front of the emperor.


    This trip to Bailu Town, they gained absolutely no benefit!


    ¡°What should we do now?¡± Yang Ye looked towards Director Gu, seeking advice.


    ¡°Leave half of these soldiers behind to guard Anping Vige, the remaining will return to the camp.¡± Director Gu said, looking towards the silent county chief, ¡°County Chief Dai, you can lead these soldiers back.¡±


    County Chief Dai was also dazed by the session of shocking news.


    The Tong Family are the descendants of Gu Yu?


    And they¡¯ve been hiding treasure?


    My God¡­


    My God!


    Remembering the Prime Minister back in the Capital City, County Chief Dai¡¯s heart skipped a beat. The Prime Minister had instructed him to care for the Tong family, only mentioning that the Tongs were his distant rtives.


    Being rted to the descendants of Gu Yu¡­


    That¡¯s terrifying.


    Could this matter implicate the Prime Minister?


    However, looking at the Grand Emperor¡¯s attitude towards the Tong Family, would there be any problems even if it did involve him?


    Moving against the Tong Family would be equivalent to moving against me.


    Could these words be said casually?


    His brain in chaos, the bewildered County Chief Dai led away the five thousand soldiers.


    The remaining five thousand soldiers, as per Director Gu¡¯s orders, thoroughly encircled Anping Vige.


    The sudden encirclement of the vige was a major event, causing the vigers to panic.


    Tong Tiehu quickly rang the bell to exin to the vigers: A secret tunnel appeared in the mountains, which might mean the emergence of a treasure. Therefore, the court sent people to look for the treasure. Everyone should not panic, and continue with their tasks.


    Due to the morning incident involving Yang Wang and Cen Hong¡¯s inquiries, many vigers were aware of the existence of the secret tunnel.


    Hearing Tong Tiehu¡¯s words, they were able to calm their frantic hearts.


    It was normal for the court to send people over when treasure was discovered.


    The vigers dispersed quickly. Yang Ye turned to Qiao Xiaomai, ¡°Miss Qiao, let¡¯s go. Let¡¯s continue with our lunch at your home.¡±


    It was such a mood killer to have their meal interrupted and to be dyed for so long.


    ¡°Chief Tong, Third Son, you twoe as well.¡± Yang Ye called the grandfather-grandson duo.


    Yang Wang, with a dark face, also followed along.


    The treasure was gone, but the matter wasn¡¯t over yet.


    Seeing Yang Wang follow, Cen Hong naturally wanted to do the same. Seeing this, Yang Ye quickly extended his arm to stop him, ¡°General Cen, Miss Qiao does not wee you, the wound on her arm hasn¡¯t healed yet.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Cen Hong¡¯s face turned even darker. He gritted his teeth and said, ¡°Then I¡¯ll return to the town first.¡±


    Yang Ye grinned, ¡°Go back. Do not loiter around Anping Vige. Just wait in the town for the imperial edict. As for the matter of you intentionally bringing a rabid dog out of the military camp and causing harm to themon people, it¡¯s not over yet.¡±


    Cen Hong was so angry that he almost shattered his teeth, ¡°Then I¡¯ll go first.¡±


    Yang Ye just grunted in response.


    Watching Cen Hong¡¯s retreating figure, Yang Ye¡¯s sneer faded. He turned to Qiao Xiaomai and said, ¡°Miss Qiao, shall we go?¡±


    ¡°Please, Prince.¡± Qiao Xiaomai stepped aside.


    Yang Ye chuckled and walked in front.


    Upon reaching the Qiao Family, Yang Ye didn¡¯t have Qiao Xiaomai add more dishes. Instead, they all sat down to continue lunch.


    Throughout the meal, Yang Wang maintained his somber expression, still holding onto that brick in his hand.


    Yang Ye took a cold look at him, then shifted his gaze to Tong Tiehu, ¡°Chief Tong, why don¡¯t you tell us about Prince Pingnan¡¯s affair? After all, he turned out to be Grandpa Emperor¡¯s sworn brother. This matter seems rather mysterious.¡±


    [My cute readers, please cast a rmendation vote¡¯ xoxo~ ]

 Chapter 425: 425: Treasure, Didn’t You Keep Some for Yourself?

    Chapter 425: Treasure, Didn¡¯t You Keep Some for Yourself?<div>


    At first, he was furious about Liuli, his stepmother¡¯s maniption.


    Exceedingly furious.


    All his life, hardship, mental stress, and trepidation had kept himpany.


    Towards the end, Yang Wenxiao informed him that all this was part of Liuli¡¯s n to help the Yang Family eradicate the Aristocratic Families.


    He had spent his entire life being manipted by Liuli.


    This woman caused his mother to die in depression, his father to die in battle, and deceived him his entire life.<div>


    But, when he calmed down and pondered the situation, his hatred started to waver.


    His father, Gu Yu, had encouraged him to rebel.


    But Liuli secretly made ns to aid Yang Wenxiao.


    Comparative to the rebellion his father, Gu Yu, left him in his will, he preferred Liuli¡¯s n of openly rebelling while ndestinely aiding the Yang family. Could rebellion easily seed?


    The Yang Family had gunpowder and armored cavalry, but what did the Tong Family have?


    All they had was a treasure, and a small amount of influence gained through alliances with the Tong Liu and the Right Premier.


    Could these taken alone, usurp Mount Jiang?


    Without Liuli¡¯s n, when Yang Wenxiao found out, would he have merely issued a decree to seize the Tong Family¡¯s assets?


    No, Yang Wenxiao would have undoubtedly wielded a cleaver.


    He did not understand thest wish that his father wanted him to fulfill, nor did he know what had transpired during the fight for Mount Jiang.


    Because of his ignorance, he did not harbor a deep-seated hatred towards the Yang Family.


    So, he was content with how things had turned out.<div>


    Everyone was alive for now. Once the treasure was found, Yang Wenxiao would return his fortune. Moreover, if they were sessful in eradicating the Aristocratic Families, then considering his link to Liuli, Yang Wenxiao would likely reward his family.


    This light oue was significantly better than the bloody rebelion.


    The huge burden that had weighed on him for fifty years was finally lifted.


    He could now live out his days peacefully as an ordinary old man without fear, no longer racking his brain about how to seize Mount Jiang.


    So, what could this tiny dilemma amount to?


    It didn¡¯t amount to anything.


    There was food at home, and capabilities of making vinegar. Definitely survivable!


    The consecutive thoughts running through Tong Tiehu¡¯s mind were unknown to people like the Qian and the Zhang families; they couldn¡¯t possibly let it slide merely based on his statement in the face of the current situation.


    Deception, this was a tremendous deception.


    Had they known that the Tong Family hid such secrets, they would¡¯ve definitely not married into the family!


    ¡°Father, isn¡¯t this kind of thing considered deception?¡± the woman from the Zhang Family spoke again.


    Tong Tiehu looked at her, ¡°Yes, not telling you the whole truth when you got married to Xingda was deception.¡±<div>


    ¡°Only just deception, that¡¯s it?¡± the woman from the Zhang Family asked.


    ¡°What else do you want to say?¡± Tong Tiehu inquired.


    Hearing this, the silent Tong Xingda frowned and opened his mouth, ¡°What are you trying to do?¡±


    Tong Xingda was also annoyed.


    From now on, the Tong Family would be nothing more than an ordinary household; they had lost the treasure and could no longer rebel. He was nothing more than a country bumpkin, yet he had once dreamed of bing Emperor!


    On hearing this, the woman from the Zhang Family red at him immediately, ¡°After all these years, you did not let even a single word slip!¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re a woman. Your job was to take care of the children. What good would it have done to tell you? Maybe you would have blurted it out one day. Was this something to blurt out?¡±


    ¡°Yes, this is definitely not something to blurt out. But given the current situation, tell me, what are we going to do!¡± After being shouted at by Tong Xingda, the woman from the Zhang family lost some steam, but she was still far from her usual gentle demeanor.


    Coming face-to-face with this situation, the fact that she hadn¡¯t lost her sanity was a testament to her mental fortitude.


    ording to Tong Xingda, she wasn¡¯t even allowed toin anymore; was she still supposed to live?


    ¡°What do you propose we do?¡± Tong Xingda asked impatiently.


    ¡°Of course, we should ask father, you, and Sang. After hoarding whatever treasures for all these years, did you not secretly save something?¡±<div>

 Chapter 426: You All Have Private Stashes of Silver

    Chapter 426: You All Have Private Stashes of Silver


    ¡°Indeed, Grandpa, we heard that the treasure came from the National Treasury of the previous dynasty. Such a pile of good things, did you not hide away a bit?¡± Tong Eng, hearing Zhang¡¯s words, immediately asked with glistening anticipation in his eyes.


    At these words, the Qian Family, and eldest of the Tong Family all turned to look at Tong Tiehu.


    Well, shouldn¡¯t they be able to keep a bit of the loot given they guarded such arge amount of treasure?


    Tong Tiehu looked at the others¡¯ eagerly bright eyes and slowly shook his head. ¡°No, I didn¡¯t hide a single thing. All the items are ounted for in a specific ledger, I didn¡¯t touch any of them, and that ledger has now been handed over to the retired emperor.¡±


    ¡°How is that possible!¡± Mrs. Zhang leaped up from her chair.


    By now it was already nightfall, the sky was dark, but nobody was in the mood to eat.


    The family¡¯s vinegar shop had been closed today, and the eldest of the Tong Family had returned to the vige with their luggage in a cart drawn by an ox.


    The deeds for the family¡¯s farnd had been handed in, as had their savings.


    Suddenly being left with nothing, the family sat in the hall to discuss the matter.


    ¡°What is all this fuss about?¡± Tong Xingda reprimanded, ¡°Sit down! If father didn¡¯t take a thing, then I certainly didn¡¯t, and neither did the third son!¡± ¡°Moreover, even if we had taken something, could we use it at this time? If we dared to use it, the retired emperor would immediately send people to confiscate it.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t think I don¡¯t know that you¡¯ve umted quite a stash of private silver over the years, enough to live on.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Tong Tiehu nodded, ¡°Exactly, you all have private money, and we can make do.¡±


    Transactions done in private, Tong Sang had an amount of 5000 taels.


    Part of it was sry from his position as the deputy of Tingfeng Pavilion, the rest was rewards from small torge.


    Most of it was rewards, and these rewards were primarily from Tong Liu.


    However, Tong Tiehu also contributed significantly. The grandsons of the Tong Family usually received ten taels during the Lunar New Year, while children from other families would be happy with just a few wen.


    Ten taels were indeed arge sum in the countryside.


    The eldest, second, and third sons of the Tong Family, including the two children of the eldest son, all received ten taels during the Lunar New Year.


    This money did not have to be turned over to Tong Xingda or Mrs. Zhang.


    Also, if they needed more money for daily expenses, they could always ask Tong Tiehu for more.


    In this matter of money, Tong Tiehu never treated his children harshly.


    As for managing the vinegar shop at home, while Tong Xingda and Mrs. Zhang were formally in charge of the ie, however, they were of a certain age and also had grandkids. Therefore, they should have some money to spend.


    Mr. and Mrs. Tong Dng have to feed a child, taking care of the vinegar shop is hard work. Thus, they too should be paid.


    That is to say, the ie from the vinegar shop andnd all fell to him; however, a portion of it was given to Tong Xingda and Mr. Tong Dng.


    Furthermore, the daily expenditures for the family are generally handled by him; others do not have much to spend.


    Thus, it can be inferred that over these years, each one of them must have saved quite an amount of money, and not a small sum.


    Now that their primary assets were depleted, still, the house was there, as were the cattle, sheep, pigs, and chickens; everyone also had some hidden money tucked away; thus, they were more than capable of making ends meet.


    Not only could they survive, but they were also faring better than most of the households in the vige!


    ¡± What can we do with such a small amount of private savings? It would all go into buying just a few pieces ofnd¡­¡± Mrs. Zhang muttered.


    ¡°We don¡¯t need much; if we buy a lot, we won¡¯t be able to handle it. I think, buying ten acres will suffice. The food we reap would be enough to pay the taxes and feed our own house,¡± Tong Tiehu said.


    ¡°Top-gradend costs ten taels per acre. That would be a hundred taels for ten acres. Who¡¯s going to foot the bill?¡± Zhu Hongyun, who had remained silent till now, instantly chipped in on hearing this.

 Chapter 427: Let Saburo Take the Silver

    Chapter 427: Let Saburo Take the Silver


    Tong Xingda and Tong Tiehu said that everyone had their own private money. This didn¡¯t include her and Tong Er Lang.


    The small amount of silver that Tong Er Lang had saved was given to her once they got married.


    Her family was not well-off, and she had to supplement them from time to time. Besides, she enjoyed good food and clothing, and always felt embarrassed to ask Tong Tiehu for money. Therefore, she had spent most of the private money that Tong Er Lang had saved since childhood.


    If everyone was to pool money to buy the field, she couldn¡¯t contribute.


    ¡°Exactly, dad, who will pay for the field?¡± Zhang Family heard, and vigorously nodded their head.


    Previously, the family had both a farm and a store, with plenty of ie, so small sums of money didn¡¯t matter at all.


    But now that the family was in this state, the silver on hand needed to be carefully spent.


    Upon hearing this, Tong Tiehu nced at her, and said, ¡°Of course, those who have private money should contribute a bit.¡±


    ¡°I haven¡¯t saved any private money. All my silver was mixed with the public fund and was just confiscated. Madam, how much do you have?¡± Tong Tiehu turned to look at Qjan Family.


    With a face full of wrinkles, Qian Family responded sadly, ¡°Less than a hundred taels.¡±


    She also had to supplement her family.


    ¡°Bring out fifty taels. The rest of the fifty taels, let them make up for it.¡± Tong Tiehu said.


    Upon hearing this, Qian Family lowered her head and remained silent.


    She still hadints that hadn¡¯t been vented.


    Just now, the Zhang Family said that Tong Tiehu¡¯s proposal of marriage years ago was deceitful. This was indeed deceit. If she had known this earlier, she wouldn¡¯t have married him!


    Seeing this, Tong Tiehu furrowed his brows andmanded in a rebuking tone, ¡°Bring it out. If we nt something now, we can still harvest some in the autumn.¡±


    ¡°Get what? Why should I put in the most?¡± Qian Family protested.


    ¡°Because you are the elder.¡±


    ¡°Just because I¡¯m the elder, I¡¯m old now and should be enjoying the benefits of the younger generation. One hundred taels of silver should be shared by everyone.¡±


    Humph, Tong Tiehu was strong-willed and aggressive, while she was soft- natured. She had always silently endured his orders and scoldings.


    But this time was different.


    There won¡¯t be much ie in the future, and this hundred taels of silver was everything she had.


    She couldn¡¯t bear to give away half of it all at once.


    Besides, she still had to supplement her own family!


    ¡°I think, it should be like this.¡± Seeing that Tong Tiehu was about to get angry, Zhu Hongyun quickly cut in, ¡°This matter was known to grandpa, father, and third brother. So, the hundred taels of silver should be provided by grandma, mother, and third brother.¡±


    These three people knew about the matter, so it should be paid by the people closest to them.


    Tong Third Brother didn¡¯t have a partner, so he should pay for himself.


    In any case, she didn¡¯t have any silver.


    ¡°That¡¯s a good idea.¡± Tong Er Lang hearing it, eyes brightened, nodding continuously.


    The couple of eldest son Tong silently embraced their children, lowered their heads, and said nothing.


    Upon hearing this, Zhang Family red at Zhu Hongyun fiercely. She was also an innocent party, and she felt aggrieved!


    Qian Family also couldn¡¯t help but re at Zhu Hongyun, who was acting as an elder, being oppressed by the younger generation and drained of her resources!


    Zhu Hongyun felt the force of Zhang and Qian Family¡¯s disdainful looks and got scared, quickly looking away.


    Seeing Tong Third Brother sitting silently on the chair by the door, she got a sudden idea and emphatically pped her thigh, ¡°I think it would be better if Third Brother chips in for the silver!¡±


    ¡°Third Brother knows martial arts, he can easily earn money. And he has been going out with grandpa in the past, seeing and learning a lot. Plus, he has spent quite a bit of silver on his studies over the years. Also, he is not married and doesn¡¯t have to spend money on that part, so he should provide for this!¡±

 Chapter 399: How to Handle Xiaomai’s Wedding

    Chapter 399: How to Handle Xiaomai¡¯s Wedding


    Today, Yang Ye finally realized how ridiculous his previous thoughts were.


    He had actually thought that Qiao Xiaomai was ying hard-to-get with him.


    Looking at Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s feelings for Tong Sang, oh my, it made him involuntarily want to marry a queen.


    Fortunately, this ridiculous thought was only known to the dean of the valley.


    If Qiao Xiaomai knew about it, he would have lost all his dignified image as a prince.


    Since Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s heart belongs to Tong Sang, he might as well try to facilitate their rtionship.


    Upon hearing Yang Ye¡¯s words, Qiao Xiaomai slowly nodded.


    Well-


    How should she please the retired emperor, an old man in his nies, by using food? @@novelbin@@


    Tong Sang looked at Qiao Xiaomai, his face still calm, but his eyes were extremelyplicated.


    What will be their future?


    After the meal, Yang Ye went to see Yang Wangmanding soldiers to dig ditches, while Tong Sang and his grandfather Tong Tiehu went back to the Tong Family.


    They were followed by guards left by Yang Ye. Yang Ye specifically told them that starting from today until the retired emperor arrives, Tong Sang and Tong Tiehu were not allowed to leave Anping Vige.


    Tong Sang and Tong Tiehu didn¡¯t mind at all, they were very satisfied with being pulled back from the brink of death in the Underworld.


    Qiao Xiaomai sat under the willow tree, pondering seriously about what she should prepare for the retired emperor.


    Well¡­


    Ma Dongshu had once said, the retired emperor ate a bowl of magical rice that could revive the dead.


    Should she also steam a pot of rice?


    But her rice certainlycked the ability to revive the dead; what if her attempt to curry favor not only fails but backfires?


    She didn¡¯t have any clues even after thinking for half an afternoon.


    In the evening, Qiao Changshun led Qiao Dami home, constantly sighing, ¡°Arge, deep ditch has been dug all around our vige.¡±


    The good ground was dug into a mess, leaving only a few narrow paths for the vigers to use.


    As for the treasure, he had been living above the cer for more than ten years without seeing any treasure.


    ¡°He is a prince. If he wants to dig, let him dig,¡± Qiao Xiaomai said indifferently.


    Anyway, he couldn¡¯t find a hair of the treasure.


    Hearing her words, Qiao Changshun sighed again, ¡°Don¡¯t mention it, let¡¯s prepare dinner.¡±


    How could he, amoner,ment on the affairs of a prince?


    However, thinking about Tong Sang¡¯s identity, the wrinkles on his face deepened.


    He originally intended to marry Qiao Xiaomai to Tong Sang, but now Tong Sang turned out to be a descendant of some Prince Pingnan, who had contested for the throne with the retired emperor!


    This situation really left him dizzy and limp.


    Would his prospective son-inw still be a good match?


    ¡°Xiaomai, what do you think about Sang¡­ ¡± he rubbed his hands, stammering, ¡°What¡¯s your stance toward him?¡±


    ¡°Let nature take its course.¡± Qiao Xiaomai spoke and rose to walk toward the fields. ¡°Dad, you don¡¯t need to worry about this. It has nothing to do with us.¡±


    Qiao Changshun just couldn¡¯t think about it. Qiao Xiaomai decided not to divulge anything about her rtionship with Tong Sang to him.


    Qiao Changshun said, ¡°¡­but looking at how you treat Sang¡­¡±


    She had even fed him with her own hands. Plus, Tong Sang had used his lightness skill to carry her and run several times. The only thing left for them to do was to invite a matchmaker for the formal marriage proposal.


    It was a difficult pill to swallow with such a situation happening now.


    ¡°Let¡¯s talk about it when the retired emperor arrives. Dad, our family is now rich and ownsnd. Let¡¯s always think positively. After all, our lives now are better than before, no matter what.¡±


    Hearing this, Qiao Changshun couldn¡¯t help but sigh again.


    It was precisely because they now had silver andnd that the demands were elevated.


    The most important matter for the family now was Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s marriage.

 Chapter 400: Preparations for Bribery

    Chapter 400: Preparations for Bribery


    Qiao Xiaomai looked at Qiao Changshun¡¯s face, as rough as tree bark, and pointed to the pile of firewood in the shed. ¡°Dad, start the fire. You haven¡¯t worked in the fields for two days. Eat and sleep early, there¡¯s still work to do tomorrow.¡±


    Qiao Changshun looked at her and sighed again, then went to bring the firewood into the kitchen to start the fire.


    All he could do now was pray in his heart for the Retired Emperor to spare the Tong Family


    His demands were not high, just to keep things as they are, and let Qiao Xiaomai live a life offort and prosperity.


    The night passed like this. The next day, Qiao Changshun summoned the workers who usually worked in his house to the fields. Qiao Xiaomai, on the other hand, went to find Yang Ye.


    She needed to find out about the Retired Emperor¡¯s daily food preferences, so as not to tter him inappropriately.


    Yang Ye was standing at the entrance to the vige, watching the soldiers digging a deep trench. Ten meters deep and five meters wide, itpletely surrounded Anping Vige, making it seem like an isted ind. @@novelbin@@


    Upon hearing of Qiao Xiaoinai¡¯s purpose, he said, ¡°The Retired Emperor is in good health and there¡¯s nothing he can¡¯t eat. As long as you don¡¯t make anything too hard or indigestible, you should be fine.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai nodded and then asked, ¡°Sir, could you help me make something out of iron, like this?¡±


    She gestured the shape of an oven.


    She was curious about the texture of the food baked with firewood.


    After hearing her description, Yang Ye immediately sent someone to prepare it in the cksmith¡¯s shop in the town.


    Qiao Xiaomai returned home, hitched up the ox cart, and prepared to go to town.


    To satisfy the Retired Emperor as much as possible, some ingredients needed to be prepared now, such as fish and shrimp.


    If they were raised with water from the Spiritual Spring, they would certainly taste better than those raised with ordinary water.


    Sigh, this year she must set aside a few acres to cultivate with the Spiritual Spring water.


    On one hand, these crops would be for their own consumption. On the other hand, they would be used to bribe nobles like Yang Ye.


    With these thoughts in mind, she turned the ox cart towards the Tong Family¡¯s residence.


    Originally, she nned to be responsible for Tong Sang¡¯s meals from now on. But given the current situation, the only thing she could provide for Tong Sang was sour plum soup in a y pot.


    Tong Xingda had returned.


    After themotion caused by Cen Hong yesterday, he had promptly rushed back to Anping Vige.


    Then he became severely anxious and worried.


    With a sword hanging above his head, this situation was too unbearable.


    When he saw Qiao Xiaomai, a light immediately shone in his eyes.


    ¡°Oh, Xiaomai, what are you making?¡± he warmly greeted her.


    ¡°Sour plum soup.¡± When giving gifts, she couldn¡¯t just give them to Tong Sang. She had taken thergest y pot and filled it with a big pot of sour plum soup.


    ¡°It¡¯s for cooling down during the summer heat, for Elder Master Tong.¡± Qiao Xiaomai smiled.


    By this time, Tong Sang hade over, ¡°Are you going to town?¡±


    ¡°Yes, to buy some things.¡±


    Tong Sang made a sound of agreement and fell silent. He was currently not allowed to leave the vige, so he couldn¡¯t apany her.


    Then Tong Xingda also joined them. Upon hearing Qiao Xiaoinai¡¯s words, he happily said, ¡°So, not just for your Elder Master Tong, others can also drink it?¡±


    ¡°With such a big y pot, everyone can drink. Sang, take the pot back.¡±


    As instructed, Tong Sang easily lifted the giant y pot.


    Qiao Xiaomai then addressed Tong Xingda, ¡°Uncle Tong, if there¡¯s nothing else, I¡¯ll be leaving first.¡±


    ¡°Go ahead, go ahead.¡± Tong Xingda, grinning, waved his hand.


    He watched Qiao Xiaoinai¡¯s figure retreating. Then he went back to the courtyard, saw Tong Sanging out from the kitchen, and immediately beckoned him over. ¡°Come here, I have something to say to you.¡±

 Chapter 430: Let’s Go Propose!

    Chapter 430: Let¡¯s Go Propose!


    With an empty purse, Zhu Hongyun felt very insecure.


    So she was exceptionally supportive of Tong Sang¡¯s practice of hunting game to exchange for silver.


    She wished Tong Sang could hunt all the wildlife in the mountains so that the Tong Family could return to its former state.


    ¡°Tomorrow, I¡¯ll speak to my mother, and encourage Sang to hunt more,¡± she said.


    ¡°That sounds good, he is skilled in hunting and also that¡¯s a business with no capital invested,¡± Tong Eng agreed, nodding earnestly.


    After discussing, they washed their feet and went to bed.


    Tong Tiehu went to the new house.


    Ma Dongshu had already packed up and left, he was here simply to help Yang Ye find the treasure. Since the treasure was now gone, there was no need for him to stay any longer.


    The Tong sisters, Qiao Zhaodi and Qiao Yindi, were the only ones residing in the new house. When Tong Tiehu came over, the sisters were having their meal.


    ¡°Vige Chief.¡± Seeing Tong Tiehu, the sisters quickly greeted him.


    Tong Tiehu looked towards the kitchen, ¡°Keep eating, I¡¯ll go check on the livestock.¡±


    The sisters acknowledged and retreated to the kitchen.


    Tong Tiehu took a candle from the room and headed towards the cowshed.


    Tong Sang looked at him, ¡°I will hunt more game, our family will bounce back soon.¡±


    ¡°No need, let¡¯s keep a low profile for a bit,¡± Tong Tiehu shook his head.


    Yang Wenxiao had issued such a decree, and if our family fortunes revived instantly, onlookers might get suspicious. So let¡¯s pretend to be poor for while.


    ¡°You don¡¯t need to stay with me here. I¡¯m sleeping here tonight, head back home,¡± TongTiehu said.


    ¡°It¡¯s still early, Sang, you should go see Qiao Xiaomai. The wedding nning should be put on the schedule,¡± said Tong Xingda.


    Tong Xingda didn¡¯t know about Qiao Xiaomai storing the treasures in a separate space, but what he did know was that from now on, they were forbidden to meddle in the affairs of the Tingfeng Pavilion and couldn¡¯t contact Tong Liu any further.


    With no room for involvement in the business affairs of Tingfeng Pavilion and losing the ability to contact the left ambassador, the Tong family¡¯s financial situation was truly bleak!


    In the future, the Tong family would just be amon vige family.


    At this moment, of course, they must firmly secure Qiao Xiaomai. Qiao Xiaomai had won over Yang Wenxiao with her cooking skills.


    Given the current situation of the Tong Family and the rising value of Qiao Xiaomai, it was necessary to act quickly.


    I think we should invite the Matchmaker and propose marriage to the Qiao Family in a few days,¡± Tong Xingda suggested.


    ¡°I haven¡¯t discussed this with Qiao Xiaomai yet,¡± Tong Sang replied.


    ¡°Then you should hurry up and ask her!¡± Tong Xingda urged him.


    Tong Sang pursed his lips, ¡°Okay.¡±


    Although Yang Wenxiao¡¯s words have put things at a halt, he and Qiao Xiaomai haven¡¯t had much time to be together over thest half a month.


    Now that things have settled down, he should go see her.


    Yes, go find her.


    Having made up his mind, Tong Sang said goodbye to Tong Tiehu and Tong Xingda and quickly headed to the Qiao Family¡¯s home using lightness skills.


    At the Qiao Family¡¯s home.


    After having dinner, Qiao Changshun was cleaning the pot by candlelight while Qiao Xiaomai was preparing hot water in the old soy milk pot for a bath.


    Seeing Tong Sang at this time, she was a bit surprised, ¡°Why are you here at this hour?¡±


    ¡°Just came to see you.¡±


    ¡°Air, it¡¯s Sang,e in and have a seat. Have you had your dinner?¡± Qiao Changshun stood at the kitchen entrance, heartily greeting him.

 Chapter 402: The Disposition towards Cen Hong

    Chapter 402: The Disposition towards Cen Hong


    Qiao Xiaomai was unaware of Tong Xingda¡¯s wicked intentions. She had just returned from the town, where she cleaned her newly purchased buckets, and filled them with Spiritual Spring water before cing the fish and shrimp inside.


    After being nurtured in the Spiritual Spring for a while, the taste of these fish and shrimp would definitely improve.


    After this, she went to consult Dr. Wu.


    Although Yang Ye had said the retired emperor had no dietary restrictions, she wasn¡¯t sure about the dietary preferences of elderly people.


    Especially for retirees in their eighties or nies.


    She had to consult with Dr. Wu about this matter to avoid making a mistake.


    To tell the truth, she didn¡¯t want to cook for the retired emperor. If anything untoward happened, it would be her responsibility.


    v <) r


    As Xiaomai was busy preparing the meal, time quietly slipped away. With the sudden arrival of numerous soldiers in Anping Vige, the vigers quickly adapted within three days and were no longer afraid.


    The children, looking at the deep trenches, even found it interesting.


    Entertainment was meager in ancient times. The sudden appearance of arge trench and a mysterious secret tunnel on the mountain, coupled with the tale of the treasury of the former dynasty, filled the vigers with curiosity rather than fear.


    With Yang Ye¡¯smand, the soldiers, fully armed, treated the vigers cordially. Thus, the children took the trench as a ything, dangling on a rope hanged on the edge, climbing up and down.


    Even Qiao Dami had a go, returning with reddened hands.


    The ropes were coarse and climbing up along the wall while holding the rope requires both technique and strength.


    Qiao Xiaomai frowned and chided Dami a few times, only allowing him to watch others y by the trench in the future, but not to go down himself.


    The trench was ten meters deep. Dami, a gentle boy, was not good at climbing trees, much less beingpared with the mischievous monkeys in the vige.


    Qiao Dami nodded obediently, signifying that he would follow her instructions.


    In truth, he did not like this kind of thrilling game. Having tried it once and found it not fun, he would definitely not y again.


    Three dayster, the decree on Cen Hong¡¯s punishment finally arrived.


    He had brought a rabid dog out of the military camp to intentionally harm the civilians, a serious vition of military discipline and rules, and extremely heinous.


    So, his rank was degraded from a second-rank national protector to an eighth- rank county head, responsible for the public security of the stationed troops in Huai¡¯an County.


    Being degraded from a second-rank official to an eighth-rank county head, dropping six ranks in total, Cen Hong became as white as a sheet when the decree was announced. He almost fainted.


    Qiao Xiaomai, on the other hand, couldn¡¯t help but bend over inughter.


    Cen Hong, originally the Commander-in-Chief of the armed forces nationally, had been reduced to a county head in such a short span. This was like going from the position of a Provincial Chief of Police to the head of a county police station.


    The fall was truly staggering.


    An eight-rank official, he was even lower than the County Sheriff now.


    This was so satisfying, extremely satisfying!


    Xiaomai didn¡¯t believe that Cen Hong would be penalised severely just because he had injured her; this was no ordinary society, after all.


    Even in contemporary times, there were many instances where the privileged ss would escape punishment after harming others.


    So, she was pleased with this result.


    Very pleased. @@novelbin@@


    Tormenting a person like Cen Hong, a drastic demotion like this was more effective than physical torture.


    She guessed that Cen Hong must be too embarrassed to show his face now.


    The more she thought about it, the happier she became, and her mood, which had been gloomy for several days, finally cleared up.


    Straight after, another imperial edict arrived. The retired emperor would visit Anping Vige, and all affairs of Anping Vige had to remain unchanged. No one was allowed to act recklessly.

 Chapter 432: 432: Tong Sanlangs Pendant

    ¡°Life has to continue, even if it¡¯s not satisfying. We¡¯re already like this, can¡¯t change it, so we have to adapt,¡± Qiao Xiaoinai said.


    If it were someone like Qiao Changshun, there would be no doubt that he was happily working towards unity and prosperity.


    But the members of the Tong Family have chosen to prioritize their own interests.


    Byparison, having a father like Qiao Changshun actually isn¡¯t so bad.


    Tong Sang fell silent upon hearing this. He pushed aside the cream on his cake, using a spoon to dig the rest of it to eat.


    After several bites, he finally spoke again, ¡°I¡¯m like you; I¡¯m also going to suffer from emotional pain.¡±


    Despite his usual unremarkable demeanor, he cares deeply about his family.


    Upon hearing his words, Qiao Xiaomai patted his shoulder.


    This kind of wound, when it hurts, is just as painful as one inflicted by a knife.


    ¡°Young man, you can lean on my shoulder if you need to,¡± she offered.


    Tong Sang raised his eyes to nce at her, then lightly shook his head.<div>


    It was something he couldn¡¯t do ¨C pouring out his emotional turmoil in front of Qiao Xiaomai, like some lovesick girl.


    Though he is a few years younger than Qiao Xiaomai, he needed to present a steady and reliable image in front of her.


    He diverted the topic, ¡°Mmm¡­ my father said a while ago that in the underground treasure vault, neither he, nor I, nor my grandfather had privately kept any item. That¡¯s not quite right.¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡± Qiao Xiaomai was surprised, ¡°Have you guys taken something out?¡±


    ¡°Not us, just me.¡± Tong Sang chewed on his cake, and after swallowing it continued, ¡°Ten years ago, my grandfather and I went into the vault for thest time. In the secret tunnel, I found a white jade pendant¡­¡±


    ¡°A white jade pendant?¡± Qiao Xiaomai was startled.


    ¡°Yes, it¡¯s a small one. It was very dark in the secret tunnel as you know, and we had to carry torches. At that time, I was young and would stare at my feet while walking. That¡¯s when I found it.¡±


    ¡°The pendant is mutton-fat jade, but it¡¯s too small and wouldn¡¯t be worth much silver. My grandfather let me keep it as a toy.¡±


    ¡°However, finding such a thing in the tunnel was odd for my grandfather. So he checked carefully through the inventory of treasures. Everything listed was still properly stored in the vault.¡±


    ¡°So my grandfather guessed that this pendant¡­ it might have been left by my great grandmother¡­¡±


    Tong Sang paused here, cing the cake on hisp and stretching his hand to pull a pendant from his neck, ¡°Here, this is it.¡±


    The moonlight was dim, Qiao Xiaomai could not see clearly. She took out a shlight from her bag and shone it on Tong Sang¡¯s neck.


    ¡°Oh?!¡± She eximed loudly, quickly pulling up her right sleeve with her left hand. Then she held the shlight in her left hand and shone it onto her own wrist, ¡°Look, doesn¡¯t the mark of my portal perfectly match the shape of your pendant?¡±


    Tong Sang was also astonished and leaned forward to take a closer look.


    Previously, when he met Qiao Xiaomai, it was always at night. Qiao Xiaomai only mentioned her portal was marked on her right wrist but didn¡¯t give more details.


    He wore the pendant on his neck and thought it was just an ordinary item; he often didn¡¯t wear it for fear of losing it, so he never told Qiao Xiaomai about it.


    It turned out his pendant and the mark of Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s portal were the same?


    Yes, indeed, they are identical.<div>


    He hurriedly took the pendant off his neck. Comparing to the mark on Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s wrist, it fit perfectly.


    Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s eyes widened, ¡°I see now, your pendant, it must be a portal too! Your great grandmother must have used this portal to transfer the treasure here!¡±

 Chapter 404: 404: Brown-Nosing

    Chapter 404: Brown-Nosing<div>


    Yang Wenxiao walked ahead, with Yang Ye hurriedly following after him in small strides, ¡°Grandpa Emperor, I haven¡¯t seen you in a long time, I¡¯ve missed you!¡±


    Upon careful calction, he has not seen Yang Wenxiao for half a year.


    Yang Wenxiao gave him a half-amused look, ¡°Miss me? Would you really be heartbroken to leave Bailu Town?¡±


    ¡°I originally nned to get a stunning gift for Grandpa Emperor, but then all these things happened, and so it has been dyed until now.¡± Yang Ye exined.


    When he first came to Bailu Town, he had three goals: treasure hunting, visiting Director Gai, and seeing Qiao Xiaoinai.


    Now in front of Yang Wenxiao, naturally, he chose the pleasing things to say.<div>


    ¡°Oh, so you are actually very filial?¡± Yang Wenxiaoughed.


    ¡°Of course! I¡¯ve been thinking about this gift sincest year. However, Grandpa Emperor, you are so wise, everything is under your control, amazing!¡± Yang Ye said with two thumbs up, admiration clear on his handsome face.@@novelbin@@


    He really meant it. He had searched hard for a year, only to find out that his Grandpa Emperor had identified the target twenty years ago.


    Yang Wang also followed Yang Wenxiao, and he couldn¡¯t help but interrupt, ¡°Fourth Brother, your words are somewhat heartbreaking. This batch of treasure has now vanished without a trace.¡±


    Would truly wise words allow this batch of treasure to vanish?


    This is not ttery, this is a stab in the heart, really doesn¡¯t know how to speak!


    He gave Yang Ye a nted look, then turned to Yang Wenxiao, serious, ¡°But Grandpa Emperor, rest assured, I¡¯ve turned Anping Vige into a Lonely Ind, the treasure can¡¯t fly away.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Yang Wenxiao turned to Yang Wang, ¡°I know.¡±


    He had a smile on his face, but his reply was just three words: I know.


    Yang Wang was perplexed, what did these three words mean?


    He couldn¡¯t touch the Tong family nor impose heavy punishments, he had done the best within his power.


    Why didn¡¯t he praise him?<div>


    Yang Wang was puzzled, and Yang Ye couldn¡¯t help butugh. He quickly said, ¡°Grandpa Emperor, Qiao Xiaomai, that vige girl, you know her, right? She made a lot of delicious food, after a tiresome journey, you can have a good rest and appreciate her cooking skills.¡±


    Yang Wenxiao nodded, ¡°Okay.¡±


    He was looking forward to Qiao Xiaomai.


    ¡°The underground vault was built under her house, right?¡± He asked.


    ¡°Yes, yes, it¡¯s right under her house, Grandpa Emperor, you¡¯ll have to look closelyter, the vault is very mysterious.¡± Yang Wang, seizing the opportunity to converse, eagerly spoke again.


    Yang Wenxiao nodded again, and changed the subject, ¡°Gai Ming, Gao Lian, you twoe here.¡±


    Gao Lian was Yang Wenxiao¡¯s personal eunuch. With Yang Ye and Yang Wang on either side of Yang Wenxiao, Gao Lian had stepped back to give them space.


    Hearing Yang Wenxiao¡¯s words, he quickly trotted back up to him.


    The Director Gai also hurried a few steps, catching up with Yang Wenxiao¡¯s pace.


    ¡°Gao Lian, take a look, is this town built exactly as the blueprints?¡± Yang Wenxiao asked enthusiastically, pointing to the buildings around them.


    Gao Lian quickly replied, ¡°Exactly the same.¡±


    He had looked at that blueprint for twenty years along with the Grand Emperor, so he knew it by heart.<div>


    The Director Gaiughed amicably, ¡°Grand Emperor, the Academy has been built ording to your design, every grass and tree won¡¯t feel unfamiliar to you.¡±


    ¡°Every grass and tree?¡± Yang Wenxiao raised an eyebrow.


    ¡°Of course, knowing that you woulde, everything that exceeded the blueprint, I ordered people to clear it away.¡±


    Yang Wenxiao gave an exmation, ¡°No need for that.¡±


    ¡°Grandpa Emperor, you can always order people to nt them again.¡± Yang Ye said.


    The Director Gai¡¯s actions were intended to give Yang Wenxiao a sense ofing back to his own home. Those flowers and grass, he also had some removed along with them.


    Yang Wenxiaoughed but said nothing more, continued to observe the buildings of Bailu Town, asionally speaking a few words with Gao Lian and Director Gai, and slowly entered the Academy.

 Chapter 405: Hitting On The Horse’s Leg

    Chapter 405: Hitting On The Horse¡¯s Leg


    The Academy was also designed by Yang Wenxiao, and just as the Dean had said, he was familiar with every de of grass and every tree.


    A sense of nostalgia appeared in his clear eyes.


    Back then, it was that person who had casually mentioned to him about the Academy, a ce that waspletely different from the Imperial College. Even though it was just a few words, it was enough to make him yearn for it.


    After Daqi was established, he began to draw up the blueprints, with those pitifully few words he had, stroke by stroke, and finally, it became what it is now.


    How he wished that person was still alive.


    How he wished that person couldment on this Bailu Academy.


    With a soft sigh, Yang Wenxiao walked along the path towards the amodation area.


    He didn¡¯t need anyone to guide him, he knew this ce as well as his own Da¡¯an Pce, he wouldn¡¯t get lost even with his eyes closed. @@novelbin@@


    The amodation area had many small courtyards, specially prepared for visiting dignitaries, and all the courtyards were the same, there was no distinction between high and low or luxury and simplicity.


    The courtyards were neatly arranged, in front of one of the courtyards stood many people: the teachers of the academy and their families, Madam Guo Xiaomai was also among them.


    Yang Wenxiao walked over, and a group of people bowed in salutation to him.


    ¡°You may all rise.¡± Yang Wenxiao waved his hand, ¡°For now, go back. You can return tomorrow.¡±


    The group of people respectfully agreed and each returned to their own courtyards.


    Xiaomai stepped towards the courtyard where Yang Wenxiao was staying, as a cook herself, it was time for her to wait in the kitchen.


    Yang Wenxiao followed into the courtyard, the second entrance to his residence was really much smaller for his liking.


    ¡°I lived in such a small courtyard when I was young,¡± he sighed.


    His family was andlord, andter they took over the world, for decades he had not lived in such a refined small courtyard. Green leaves provided shade, and the flowers were like tapestry. Various deep colors intermingled in this small courtyard, the visual impact was unusually huge.


    He couldn¡¯t help but sigh softly.


    Indeed, he had aged.


    He was actually sighing over such lively little scenery.


    ¡°It¡¯s small and exquisite, quite different from the grandeur of the Imperial Pce. Grandpa Emperor, why not build a small courtyard for you in the pce?¡± Yang Ye asked.


    ¡°No need.¡± Yang Wenxiao shookhis head.


    What he was sighing over wasn¡¯t the scenery, but the people.


    Ever since he stepped into Bailu Town, his heart had been in turmoil, thinking of that person buried in this ce.


    Taking a deep breath to himself, he stepped into the main hall.


    After changing his clothes and taking a little rest, he talked a bit about family matters with Yang Ye and Yang Wang. By then, the sky was getting dark. ¡°Grandpa Emperor, is it time for dinner? Are you hungry?¡± Yang Ye asked.


    ¡°You think of nothing but eating.¡± Yang Wenxiao shookhis head helplessly, ¡°Serve it then.¡±


    Yang Ye snapped his fingers with a beaming smile, and maids immediately left for the kitchen.


    ¡°People regard food as their prime want. In front of delicious food, I am just an ordinary civilian.¡±


    ¡°Moreover, I can indulge in good food because Grandpa Emperor and Father Emperor have managed the world so well. With ample food avable, we can pursue refinement, right?¡± Yang Ye added.


    Yang Wenxiaoughed, ¡°You sweet talker.¡±


    ¡°Grandpa Emperor, there has been a disaster in Shuifeng Prefecture. Every time I think of those disaster victims struggling in human hell, I can¡¯t sleep or eat.¡± Yang Wang sighed on the side.


    Eating, eating, and eating, he can only get favors by eating and sweet talking.


    He has been racking his brains for the country and the people, but because he is not good at talking, he has never been favored.


    How unfair.


    Upon hearing this, Yang Ye nced at him, swiftly opened the folding fan in his hand, ¡°Third brother, take out the bravado you had when you wooed MissQiao, when you bought out several shops in town. With that vigor, you can eat well and sleep well.¡±


    If you have food, just eat it. Why bring up those depressing topics and affect the mood!

 Chapter 435: 435: Whats mine is yours

    Before Yang Ye left, he simply expressed his love for fine food, and told Xiaomai to remember to share any delicacies shees across.


    He left a guard at the Academy for Xiaomai to give whatever delicious food she found.


    Of course, if Xiaomai needed anything, she could also go to the guard for help.


    Xiaomai happily agreed.


    She was more than willing to maintain such a positive rtionship with Yang Ye.


    However, Yang Wang was a different matter altogether.


    Before Yang Wang left, he expressed his true feelings for her.


    His confession left her so disgusted that she felt goosebumps all over her body and wished she could throw up her dinner on him.


    How dare he im love when he was constantly scheming to plunder her family?


    Pah!


    Shameless!<div>


    If it weren¡¯t for Yang Wang¡¯s status, she would¡¯ve definitely disabled him with a kick.


    Ever since her near assault, she had harbored a deep revulsion for such shameless men, and her first instinct was to disable their vile roots.


    Moreover, Yang Wang didn¡¯t just confess his love. He even promised her an eternal status as a concubine at the Wang Residence if Tong Sang ever mistreated her.


    Listening to him spout such nonsense made her curse inwardly.


    And thinking about it now, still made her curse resentfully.


    Damn it, a concubine?


    Even if she were the first wife, if she were remotely interested in him, that would be the day the sun rose from the west.


    Ignorant, arrogant men who look down on others through their nostrils, pah!


    ¡°I don¡¯t want to talk about him any more. The emperor must have spoken to him about our marriage, he would not dare to disobey the emperor¡¯s wishes,¡± Xiaomai said dismissively.


    Tong Sang nodded in agreement.


    ¡°Come on, eat more,¡± Xiaomai took out more food from her spatial storage, including stir-fried dishes and snacks. ¡°Are you sure you don¡¯t want me to give you some silver?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t need it. I¡¯m going to hunt,¡± he replied.


    ¡°But it is your silver anyway.¡±


    ¡°Once I gave it to you, it bes yours.¡± Tong Sang was insistent.


    ¡°Well, well, what¡¯s mine is also yours,¡± Xiaomai yfully retorted.


    ¡°Not the same.¡± He insisted that he had to earn the money for their wedding expense.


    ¡°Alright then, I¡¯ll go up the mountain to collect firewood tomorrow. We can go together,¡± Xiaomai did not force him. Respectful of the young man¡¯s dignity, she conceded.


    ¡°Sure.¡± Tong Sang remembered their unexpected encounters on the mountain and couldn¡¯t help grinning.<div>


    He would go to the mountain daily under the pretense of hunting, partly to protect the secret tunnel and partly to visit his mentor. However, he had unexpectedly bumped into Xiaomai several times.


    What a fate!


    Xiaomai turned off her shlight, took out a small table from her spatial storage and started chatting and dining with Tong Sang.


    The two hadn¡¯t been able to chat freely ever since Yang Ye came to the vige. They stayed out untilte night before returning to the vige.<div>


    When Xiaomai got home, Qiao Changshun and Dami were already asleep. The two agreed on a meeting ce for the next day, then reluctantly parted ways.


    Before dawn the next day, Tong Sang was already up. He had only slept for four hours but was full of energy.


    He first went to the new house to check on Tong Tiehu, then went up the mountain.


    He first climbed over Rooster Mountain to see his mentor.


    His mentor, an old man named Deng Chun who followed Liuli, was already over seventy, but was still strong and versed in both literary and martial arts.


    He exined that the treasure had vanished without a trace.


    He hoped that Deng Chun would move from the primeval forest to the vige or the town to live.


    As the saying goes, ¡°one day as a teacher, forever as a father¡±, he was willing to provide for Deng Chun in his old age.

 Chapter 407: It’s Not Her

    Chapter 407: It¡¯s Not Her


    Yang Wenxiao¡¯s gaze rested on the delicate Glutinous Rice Cakes.


    He took the small dish and sat down at the table. @@novelbin@@


    Yang Wang gave Yang Ye a nce, which carried a hint of boastfulness.


    Yang Ye rolled his eyes in frustration, handed the bowl of Fish Head Tofu Soup to Yang Wenxiao, and then took a seat at the table.


    Today was a family feast attended only by the three of them, grandfather and grandchildren.


    Yang Wenxiao picked up one of the small Glutinous Rice Cakes with his chopsticks, examined it carefully, then brought it up to his mouth. The fragrant and sweet essence endlessly invaded his nostrils. He opened his mouth and put the cake in.


    It¡¯s very soft.


    Something his teeth couldpletely endure.


    The Bean Paste in the middle was very sweet, but not at all greasy.


    A familiar fragrance was mixed within the soft sweetness.


    That scent, which had danced on his dreams for over fifty years.


    The chewing motion stopped for a moment, as though a figure of the past appeared before his eyes.


    How could this¡­


    He swallowed the Glutinous Rice Cake in his mouth, picked up another piece with his chopsticks, and chewed it slowly and carefully.


    It was not a hallucination.


    This familiar fragrance was real.


    After fifty-two years, he had tasted this vor again¡­


    Fifty-two years!


    Yang Wenxiao swallowed the Glutinous Rice Cake in his mouth and asked Yang Ye, ¡°Did Qiao Xiaomai make all these dishes?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°Bring her here.¡±


    Seeing this, Yang Ye quickly said, ¡°I¡¯ll go get her myself.¡±


    Saying this, he stood up and immediately put his light-footed agility to use.


    Wow, Grandpa Emperor wants to see Qiao Xiaomai just after tasting a few Rice Cakes. Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s presence is quite strong!


    Arriving at the kitchen door, seeing Qiao Xiaomai in front of the stove, he said hurriedly, ¡°Hurry up, Grandpa Emperor wants to see you!¡±


    ¡°Alt?¡± Qiao Xiaomai was frightened by Yang Ye¡¯s urgency, wiped her hands on her apron, quickly took off her apron, and left the kitchen.


    ¡°Don¡¯t be nervous, Grandpa Emperor is impressed by your cooking skills. He wants to praise you.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai nodded again and again, her lips pursed in a straight line.


    The favor of the retired emperor must be taken advantage of to the full extent!


    Soon they arrived at the main room, and Yang Ye said, ¡°Grandpa Emperor, Qiao Xiaomai is here.¡±


    With her head and eyes down, Qiao Xiaomai respectfully kneeled and greeted, ¡°Themoner girl pays her respects to the retired emperor.¡±


    ¡°Get up.¡± Yang Wenxiao breathed in an almost imperceptible sigh, ¡°Raise your head.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai quickly got up and then raised her head.


    Of course, her eyes were still down, focusing on her shoes.


    Yang Wenxiao looked at her face, the heart that had been lifted suddenly sank, and disappointment appeared in his eyes.


    The girl in front of him bore no resemnce to her whatsoever.


    She loved to wear red, and her entire presence was like a fiercely burning fire that tugged at his heartstrings.


    And the girl in front of him was wearingmon blue silk dress, she seemed well-behaved and clever.


    Indeed, she had been dead for so many years.


    So many years¡­


    With a sigh, he hid the disappointment in his eyes and put a satisfied expression on his face, ¡°Your cooking is very impressive, who taught you?¡±


    ¡°Themoner girl learned from her mother.¡±


    Yang Wenxiao nodded and cordially said, ¡°Come, sit down and eat together.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Qiao Xiaomai unconsciously looked at Yang Ye, her beautiful eyes full of surprise.


    She was allowed to eat at the same table with the retired emperor?


    ¡°Do as Grandpa Emperor tells you.¡± Yang Ye raised his hand to indicate a ce next to him, ¡°Come and sit here.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai quickly thanked him, ¡°Thankyou, Retired Emperor.¡±


    Yang Wenxiao nodded, took another Glutinous Rice Cake, and asked, ¡°Tell me, how did you make this?¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai stared at the white pastry, and let out a long sigh of relief.


    That was a relief, she was relieved that her ttery had not missed the mark, her trial was sessful!

 Chapter 408: Watching Her

    Chapter 408: Watching Her


    With a calm mind, Xiaomai earnestly exined how to make the glutinous rice cake.


    She knew what the Grandpa Emperor was really asking, but she could not disclose the secret about the Spiritual Spring water.


    All she could do was attribute everything to her cooking skills.


    It was her excellent cooking skills that enabled her to make such uniquely fragrant dishes!


    Yang Ye, standing next to them, reassured, ¡°Grandpa Emperor, there is nothing special about her method, but her dishes are so extraordinary tasty. Try this fish head tofu soup; it¡¯s delicious.¡±


    Yang Wenxiao nodded, put down his chopsticks, and picked up a small bowl.


    Once again, a unique fragrance hit his nostrils, and he took a sip gently with the spoon.


    The soup was both fragrant and fresh.


    Beneath these two vors hid a familiar aroma, very light, but impossible to ignore.


    ¡°Grandpa Emperor, let me tell you, Xiaomai has this miraculous knack to make any food, regardless of its fat content, taste light and refreshing. After eating, your entire body feelsfortable,¡± said Yang Ye.


    ¡°This is hard toe by. Take the braised pork, for instance. It¡¯s so fatty that I could only eat a piece before. But when she cooks it, I could eat a whole te without feeling greasy.¡±


    ¡°Exactly,¡± Yang Wang agreed. ¡°This is what sets Miss Xiaomai apart. Grandpa Emperor, we are not bragging. If you taste everything on this table, you will understand.¡±


    Yang Wenxiao looked amazed and muttered, ¡°Impressive.¡±


    All the dishes were made without adding any special seasoning but with a touch of the same unique aroma on every dish. It was magical.


    Too magical.


    Xiaomai, with a shy smile, was sitting without moving, her lips slightly pursed. @@novelbin@@


    Seeing this, Yang Wenxiao spoke, ¡°Don¡¯t be nervous, eat.¡±


    Xiaomai smiled again and picked up her chopsticks.


    ¡°Grandpa Emperor, try this sea cucumber steamed egg. It tastes really good.¡±


    Yang Wang was energetically rmending dishes to Yang Wenxiao.


    Yang Wenxiao looked over and picked up a bowl as shiny as white jade.


    The steamed egg was extremely tender. He didn¡¯t need to chew it, but swallow it directly.


    The vor of the sea cucumber was powerful, its original tastebined with the strange fragrance, resulted in an indescribably delicious vor.


    Yang Wenxiao kept feeding himself the sea cucumber steamed egg until it was finished.


    ¡°Grandpa Emperor, try this. It¡¯s called Wen¡¯s tofu.¡± Yang Ye presented arge bowl to Yang Wenxiao. ¡°Look at this tofu; it¡¯s sliced as thin as hair.¡±


    Yang Wenxiao raised his eyebrows, ¡°Impressive.¡±


    Xiaomai continued to smile coyly. She had practiced her chopping skills a lot for this dish.


    Then, Yang Ye and Yang Wang took turns serving dishes, urging Yang Wenxiao to taste each one.


    Of course, the portion of each dish was notrge. By the time Yang Wenxiao had tasted more than a dozen dishes, he was satisfactorily full.


    ¡°Alright, you three continue eating. Don¡¯t worry about me anymore.¡± He waved his hand, his gaze fell on Xiaomai.


    He didn¡¯t say anything. He just looked at Xiaomai.


    His gaze was so intense that Xiaomai broke into a cold sweat.


    Most people of his age, almost ny, in her impression, seemed old and decrepit, emanating an aura of decay.


    But Yang Wenxiao was different.


    Despite his white hair and wrinkled face, his eyes were not only clear but also sharp and bright.


    Moreover, he was not hunched over, his tall figure had not shrunk much, it was easy to see the vigor of his youth.


    Added to his powerful aura formed by being in a high position for so long, all of these greatly pressured Xiaomai.


    Thebined effect of Yang Ye and Yang Wang was not as powerful as the single gaze from Yang Wenxiao at this moment.


    He scrutinized and inquired.


    His gaze made her break out into a cold sweat.

 Chapter 438: 438: Leave if You Dont Want to Stay

    Chapter 438: Leave if You Don¡¯t Want to Stay


    Tong Xingda was initially asleep but woke up due to Tong Tiehu¡¯s shouting. Upon hearing the situation, he promptly kicked Mrs. Zhang awake and ordered her to go make food.


    Mrs. Zhang had spent the entirety ofst night worrying about the future, only falling asleep at dawn. After eventually managing to fall asleep, she experienced a nightmare, which left her in a bad mood, worsened by being kicked awake.


    Havng been rudely awakened from a nightmare, her mood was naturally terrible, and she immediately got into an argument with Tong Xingda.


    In contrast to Tong Tiehu¡¯s cold and steadfast seriousness, Tong Xingda¡¯s attitude towards Mrs. Zhang was far simpler and crude. After a few ps, Mrs. Zhang quietened down.


    However, now that Mrs. Zhang was a grandmother, she saw that Zhu Hongyun and Li Rou, her two daughters-inw, were acting like this was just another day. Without further ado, she took out her frustrations on them, giving each of them a p and driving them to the kitchen to make food.


    The usually harmonious Tong Family had be a scene of two physical confrontations that morning. Tong Tiehu watched it all coldly, his feelings of guilt slowly dissipating.


    His approach to matters had always been straightforward and serious. His nature was not one for patience, never resorting to gentle persuasions or constions. Such behavior was uncharacteristic of him.


    That being said, his gentle wordsst night had been quite rare.


    But what about these people?


    None of them considered his predicament.<div>


    Did they think he wanted this?


    He was only ten when he inherited his father¡¯s aspirations.


    Did they think he was living an easy life?


    Did they think he had deliberately deceived them because he was a terrible person?


    How is that possible?


    He felt bitter inside.


    His conscience was also tormented.


    When he was overwhelmed with guilt for almost involving these people in his problems, he realized he had done wrong.


    But he had already exined himself nicelyst night. After a whole night has passed, their anger should have abated, right?


    Even if their resentment was still there, that was fine ¨C after all, such a monumental event was not easy to digest instantly.


    But refusing to take responsibility and even considering striking-not even nning to cook food.


    What were they trying to do?


    Was there really a need for such chaos?


    What made their actions any different from those of the shrew from Sun Family?


    He had probably spoiled these people too much so far, letting them take those better days for granted.


    Well.


    He would show them what the reality of a farmer¡¯s life is.


    The Qiao Family had put up with such repression before, this problem in his family was nothingpared to that.


    On hearing Tong Tiehu¡¯s instructions, Tong Sang replied, ¡°Alright.¡±<div>


    Seeing this, Zhu Hongyun couldn¡¯t help but speak up, ¡°Grandpa, Sang is so capable and so good at hunting, let him hunt more. We should buy another courtyard in town and continue running our shop.¡±


    Farming?


    What kind of farming?


    Running a business and starting a shop was the way to make money.<div>


    ¡°I think all of you have forgotten your roots. Did you think the past was just taken for granted? All of you go back to farming.¡± Tong Tiehu said with a gloomy expression.


    ¡°Feel like you were tricked before? Think you can find a better household than the Tong Family? After enjoying the good life, do you feel unhappy thinking you were tricked? Do you think the past several years- decades even, of good days, were fake?¡±


    Because he had rebelled against his family, Tong Tiehu never sought out ¡®high gates¡¯, and Qian Family, Zhang Family, Zhu Hongyun, Li Rou all came from less affluent backgrounds than Tong Family.


    Now they felt they had been tricked; after enjoying a good life for so long they felt they had been fooled. Did they seriously think they could find a better family than the Tongs?


    He would show them that if they were to choose again, they would still choose Tong Family.


    Being melodramatic?


    ¡°None of you have hit rock bottom like Qiao Changshun yet; everyone has some private money stashed away. Now when things got rough, what are you all upset about? You¡¯ve gotten too used to the good life, now haven¡¯t you?¡±


    ¡°I told youst night, I gave you those past good days. From now on, if you want to live well, earn it yourself! If you don¡¯t want to earn, then leave! If you want to return to your maternal home, then return. If you want to divide the family, then divide it!¡±

 Chapter 410: Events of the Past (Part 2)

    Chapter 410: Events of the Past (Part 2)


    Driven to the edge of madness, he rushed towards Qingyi Manor, for Gu Yu had fallen in battle. What about her?


    As a woman, what could her fate be in such circumstances?


    He dared not imagine, he could only do his utmost to save her.


    By the time he arrived at Qingyi Manor, his eyes were met with countless corpses and rivers of blood.


    Gu Yu¡¯s thirty thousand men had fought against Fu Xuan¡¯s hundred thousand. Gu Yu had died in battle, but Fu Xuan¡¯s losses were also severe.


    Fu Xuan didn¡¯t even bother disposing of the bodies, he was busy ordering men to dig for the treasure.


    Gu Yu robbed the National Treasury, yet Fu Xuan couldn¡¯t find a single vestige of the treasure.


    The treasure was nowhere to be found!


    She was nowhere to be found either!


    Knowing that she was alive yet unseen, dead yet unburied, he finally rxed. Death without a body was the best news he could hope for. @@novelbin@@


    He then began to deploy people to find traces of her. This search went on for thirty years.


    To be precise, it was not him who found her, but she who intentionally left signs.


    Every time a disaster urred, some unidentified force would generously provide aid.


    This was too suspicious.


    Investigate, he must investigate.


    In the end, he narrowed his focus to Anping Vige.


    Anping Vige, a small mountain vige. Was she hiding here?


    He excitedly left the pce, getting on a horse to meet her.


    After thirty years of separation, the torment of missing her was etched into his every waking moment and haunted his nights.


    He found her, finally, he found her!


    Heavens, you¡¯ve shown him such mercy.


    He had never put his faith in destiny, yet in his life, there were two moments when he genuinely knelt on the ground, thanking the heavens.


    One was when he learned she had vanished without a trace.


    The other was thirty yearster when he heard news of her.


    He was overjoyed, delirious with joy.


    He left behind state affairs and governance, he couldn¡¯t wait to leave the pce.


    All along the way, he fantasized about various scenes of their reunion.


    He had so many questions to ask.


    He had so many feelings to pour out.


    He passed the days on the road sustained by his fantasies.


    But¡­but¡­


    What awaited him was a twisted tree.


    Buried under this gnarled tree were her remains.


    She had passed away more than twenty years ago.


    She was dead.


    His strength once again left himpletely.


    No, this time it was his life that had been hollowed out.


    His waiting and anticipation of thirty years, all gone to waste.


    All gone to waste.


    He had always assumed that somewhere in the world, she was living well.


    Even if he couldn¡¯t see her, it was alright, as long as she was alive and well.


    They breathed the same air, under the same blue sky.


    At night, they saw the same moon and stars.


    He didn¡¯t know where she was, but he knew she was in this world.


    It was these things, these sameness, this longing and hope that sustained him for thirty years.


    Now, he had found her, finally, he had found her.


    But she was gone.


    What she left behind was an urn of ashes and a suicide note.


    The handwriting still crooked, reading it left him teetering on the verge of a breakdown.


    She exined why Gu Yu had broken their pact years ago, offered advice on the political situation, andstly, implored him to spare the descendants of Gu Yu.


    She knew he woulde, so she left this letter.


    She, she had always had faith in him, whether it was during their early days when their powers were weak or now.


    She said he could conquer the world.


    She even predicted he woulde to find her.


    But why couldn¡¯t she wait a little longer¡­


    Didn¡¯t she have that magical rice that could bring the dead back to life?


    Why was it that he stayed in excellent health all these decades, but she departed so early?


    GuYu was dead.


    He was dead!

 Chapter 409: 409: Events of the Past (Part 1)

    Chapter 409: Events of the Past (Part 1)<div>


    Qiao Xiaomai wasn¡¯t just an ordinary peasant girl; she had seen her fair share of the world. Under Yang Wenxiao¡¯s gaze, she calmly ate her dinner.


    Indeed, the meal was tasty.


    Soon, dinner was over.


    The maid cleaned away the dishes and served tea.


    Yang Wenxiao leisurely tasted his tea. However, itcked the refreshing aroma, leaving a nd taste in his mouth.


    ¡°Miss Qiao, who are the members of your household?¡± Yang Wenxiao began to inquire about Xiaomai¡¯s situation.<div>


    Of course, he had already investigated all of this thoroughly. His present line of inquiry was just to dispel the persistent mncholy in his heart.


    Years ago, when Gu Yu broke the alliance and went north, the Yang Family troops he led were fiercely attacked by the enemy. As themander, an arrow struck him just below the heart, posing a grave threat to his life.


    Thinking he was on his deathbed, a master from outside the camp brought him a bowl of steaming rice.


    Each grain of rice was shimmering under the candlelight, each as radiant as a gem.


    The intoxicating aroma was extremely rich, pervading the whole camp as soon as he opened the food box.


    The master who delivered the rice said that if he ate the rice, his injury would heal.


    At that time, he was already semi-conscious, his mind clouded. However, the moment the bowl of rice appeared, his chaotic mind cleared somewhat.


    He could tell from its appearance alone that the rice was extraordinary.


    Struggling and enduring severe pain, he finished the entire bowl of rice, mouthful by mouthful.


    Then, something miraculous happened.


    The wound beneath his heart, one that could have taken his life, was healed.


    It was healed.<div>


    His skin was as wless as a newborn baby¡¯s, as if he had never been injured.


    He immediately rushed out of the camp, intending to find the mysterious benefactor.


    He was also skilled in martial arts and could be considered strong; however, he couldn¡¯t find the person. All he found was an arrow.


    But this time, the arrow wasn¡¯t aimed at him, it was embedded in the ground beside him.


    Tied to the arrow was a note.


    The note was written in scrawly handwriting, as if a three-year-old child had written it.


    The script was ugly, yet eerily familiar.


    At one nce, he recognized who the writing belonged to.


    He didn¡¯t care to read the content of the note, tearing his gaze from it to wildly search for the writer.@@novelbin@@


    Unfortunately, despite circling around the camp numerous times, he came back with nothing.


    In the end, he reluctantly returned to his tent, staring nkly at the empty food box and the coarse ceramic bowl for a long time, only trying to read the note when dawn was breaking.


    The note was a prescription.<div>


    A prescription for making gunpowder.


    Gunpowder, something he had never heard about before.


    The writer exined this divine weapon in a mystical manner, suggesting that with it, the world could be easily conquered.


    He ordered his people to study it carefully. After spending significant time and losing several men in its study and trials, they finally seeded in creating this divine weapon.


    Just like the note¡¯s writer had written, relying on this divine weapon, his Yang Family army was invincible. They advanced triumphantly breaking through borders and beheading enemies along the way.


    While Gu Yu decided to go north, he chose to head southward.


    The writer had bestowed this divine weapon upon him, and he intended to reciprocate.


    There would be no contention. He wouldn¡¯t vie with Gu Yu.


    However, that good-for-nothing Gu Yu, even though he managed to enter Capital City, was driven out by Fu Xuan, trapped in Qingyi Manor!


    Upon hearing this, he personally led ten thousand cavalrymen to the north to rescue him.


    But Daqi was too vast, even if he traveled day and night non-stop, he would be toote to reach the manor. Before he could get there, news from the front arrived.


    Qingyi Manor, was lost.<div>


    Gu Yu, had fallen in battle.


    Fallen in battle. Gu Yu had actually fallen in battle, even with the godlike weapon, gunpowder, at his disposal!


    The ipetent fool!

 Chapter 410: 410: Events of the Past (Part 2)

    Chapter 410: Events of the Past (Part 2)<div>


    Driven to the edge of madness, he rushed towards Qingyi Manor, for Gu Yu had fallen in battle. What about her?


    As a woman, what could her fate be in such circumstances?


    He dared not imagine, he could only do his utmost to save her.


    By the time he arrived at Qingyi Manor, his eyes were met with countless corpses and rivers of blood.


    Gu Yu¡¯s thirty thousand men had fought against Fu Xuan¡¯s hundred thousand. Gu Yu had died in battle, but Fu Xuan¡¯s losses were also severe.


    Fu Xuan didn¡¯t even bother disposing of the bodies, he was busy ordering men to dig for the treasure.@@novelbin@@<div>


    Gu Yu robbed the National Treasury, yet Fu Xuan couldn¡¯t find a single vestige of the treasure.


    The treasure was nowhere to be found!


    She was nowhere to be found either!


    Knowing that she was alive yet unseen, dead yet unburied, he finally rxed. Death without a body was the best news he could hope for.


    He then began to deploy people to find traces of her. This search went on for thirty years.


    To be precise, it was not him who found her, but she who intentionally left signs.


    Every time a disaster urred, some unidentified force would generously provide aid.


    This was too suspicious.


    Investigate, he must investigate.


    In the end, he narrowed his focus to Anping Vige.


    Anping Vige, a small mountain vige. Was she hiding here?


    He excitedly left the pce, getting on a horse to meet her.<div>


    After thirty years of separation, the torment of missing her was etched into his every waking moment and haunted his nights.


    He found her, finally, he found her!


    Heavens, you¡¯ve shown him such mercy.


    He had never put his faith in destiny, yet in his life, there were two moments when he genuinely knelt on the ground, thanking the heavens.


    One was when he learned she had vanished without a trace.


    The other was thirty yearster when he heard news of her.


    He was overjoyed, delirious with joy.


    He left behind state affairs and governance, he couldn¡¯t wait to leave the pce.


    All along the way, he fantasized about various scenes of their reunion.


    He had so many questions to ask.


    He had so many feelings to pour out.


    He passed the days on the road sustained by his fantasies.<div>


    But¡­but¡­


    What awaited him was a twisted tree.


    Buried under this gnarled tree were her remains.


    She had passed away more than twenty years ago.


    She was dead.


    His strength once again left himpletely.


    No, this time it was his life that had been hollowed out.


    His waiting and anticipation of thirty years, all gone to waste.


    All gone to waste.


    He had always assumed that somewhere in the world, she was living well.


    Even if he couldn¡¯t see her, it was alright, as long as she was alive and well.


    They breathed the same air, under the same blue sky.<div>


    At night, they saw the same moon and stars.


    He didn¡¯t know where she was, but he knew she was in this world.


    It was these things, these sameness, this longing and hope that sustained him for thirty years.


    Now, he had found her, finally, he had found her.


    But she was gone.


    What she left behind was an urn of ashes and a suicide note.


    The handwriting still crooked, reading it left him teetering on the verge of a breakdown.


    She exined why Gu Yu had broken their pact years ago, offered advice on the political situation, andstly, implored him to spare the descendants of Gu Yu.


    She knew he woulde, so she left this letter.


    She, she had always had faith in him, whether it was during their early days when their powers were weak or now.


    She said he could conquer the world.


    She even predicted he woulde to find her.<div>


    But why couldn¡¯t she wait a little longer¡­


    Didn¡¯t she have that magical rice that could bring the dead back to life?


    Why was it that he stayed in excellent health all these decades, but she departed so early?


    GuYu was dead.


    He was dead!

 Chapter 411: Events of the Past (Part 3)

    Chapter 411: Events of the Past (Part 3)


    Why didn¡¯t she wait a few more years, why didn¡¯t she wait for him¡­


    No, no, he had already conquered the world, she didn¡¯t need to wait, all she had to do was show herself willingly.


    Why did he painstakingly search for thirty years, only to find her ashes in the end?


    Because, because she was in love with Gu Yu.


    It was simply because she was in love with Gu Yu.


    That was the answer to all the questions.


    She didn¡¯te forward, she didn¡¯t wait for him, she exined the reason why Gu Yu had broken the alliance that year, made some suggestions about the political situation, asking him to spare Gu Yu¡¯s descendants.


    Spare them.


    The word she used was ¡°spare them¡±.


    In fact, truth be told, he never truly hated Gu Yu.


    When they became sworn brothers back then, it was mainly because they had simr interests, being both wealthyndowners with simr backgrounds, reading the same books, and familiar with the same martial arts.


    They hadmon hobbies and plenty to talk about.


    How many such friends can you meet in a lifetime?


    So they became brothers and formed an alliance.


    Then Gu Yu broke the alliance¡­


    He could guess the reason why.


    A friend¡¯s wife must not be coveted, yet he fell in love with her.


    Even though he hid it well, Gu Yu¡­ must have sensed it, right?


    So Gu Yu broke the alliance and led his troops northward, he was not angry, he was the one who felt guilty.


    That¡¯s why he ordered that this matter not be discussed openly.


    But he didn¡¯t think he had done anything wrong, he couldn¡¯t control his love for her, but he restrained himself and did nothing, even intentionally avoided her.


    But Gu Yu still got angry and left.


    He didn¡¯t hate Gu Yu, he admired him.


    And he was annoyed.


    What a waste, he had gunpowder, such a divine weapon, but still lost to Fu Xuan, forcing her to hide in a small mountain vige.


    She deserved the best in the world!


    She deserved only the best¡­


    She who should have been a respected matron, ended up dying alone in a small mountain vige, asking him to spare Gu Yu¡¯s descendants.


    Facing Gu Yu¡¯s descendants, what reason did he have to eliminate them all?


    That terminology was too strong.


    Really, Gu Yu¡¯s descendants were also her descendants.


    She had saved his life.


    And gave him gunpowder, an invincible divine weapon.


    He should have treated the Tong Family well.


    But the situation at that time prevented him from favoring the Tong Family. He had to follow the n she had made,ting all the Aristocratic Families in one swoop.


    Thus, in the end, he only took her letter of will, and silently returned to the Capital City.


    Not long after his return, he abdicated and retired behind the scenes.


    Emptied out life, these five words weren¡¯t just a casual description for him.


    All his ambitious dreams, the world, the Aristocratic Families, he was tired.


    Twenty years have passed since he abdicated his throne.


    Twenty years, such a long time, had just passed by.


    He left the Capital City again to visit her.


    When hest left, he nned to see her onest time after everything was over.


    But now, even though everything isn¡¯t over, he couldn¡¯t help but have toe.


    The treasure is gone.


    The Tong Family has been exposed.


    He needed toe and see for himself.


    Perhaps this really is thest time.


    He is already eighty-nine this year, an age few ever reach.


    After this visit, there wouldn¡¯t be a next time.


    His life, it wasing to an end.


    He sighed softly to himself, turned to Qiao Xiaomai, and smiled, ¡°Tell me about what¡¯s happened in your household since your mother left.¡± @@novelbin@@


    The girl in front of him was quite legendary herself.


    Pretty impressive, she was almost on par with her.


    Qiao Xiaomai didn¡¯t know what was going on in Yang Wenxiao¡¯s mind, but since he asked, she started to tell him.


    Anyway, the recipes were all her idea and there was nothing she needed to hide.

 Chapter 443: 443: Have Xiaomai Deliver a Pot of Sour Plum Soup

    Chapter 443: Have Xiaomai Deliver a Pot of Sour Plum Soup


    Upon hearing this, Tong Sang turned his gaze to the two pottery jars over a foot tall on the ox cart, saying, ¡°Let¡¯s talk about it after we finish drinking.¡±


    ¡°It will be toote once we¡¯re done drinking. What about your niece and nephew?¡± Zhu Hongyun said, pointing to the two children beside Li Rou.


    Just then, Li Rou got up and walked towards the ox cart to get water for the children.


    Seeing this, Tong Sang hesitated.


    Zhu Hongyun quickly added, ¡°Children can¡¯t stand being thirsty, you should take a trip back home.¡±


    Tong Sang grunted in affirmation, thrust his spade into the ground, and started walking towards the ox cart.


    Greatly pleased, Zhu Hongyun said, ¡°Since you¡¯re going back, why not make a trip to the Qiao Family? Qiao Xiaomai makes delicious Sour Plum Soup, you can ask her to make a pot.¡±


    This presumptuous tone made Tong Sang pause. He looked at Zhu Hongyun, ¡°She¡¯s also quite busy. She doesn¡¯t have any free time.¡±


    ¡°Hasn¡¯t she sent us soup many times before? One more time won¡¯t matter.¡±


    ¡°If she wants to send it, that¡¯s her choice. It¡¯s absolutely ridiculous for us to actively ask for it. Howe my sister-inw never visits her maternal home and asks them to send us some?¡± Tong Sang replied coldly.<div>


    Their house is quite nearby Zhu Hongyun¡¯s maternal home.


    Upon hearing this, Zhu Hongyun eximed, ¡°The people at my maternal home don¡¯t know how to make Sour Plum Soup.¡±


    Tong Sang nced at her stoically, turned his back, picked up his spade again, and continued weeding.


    Seeing this, Zhu Hongyun softened her tone, ¡°Alright, alright, we can pay for it, right? It¡¯s not like we are asking for a free service. Didn¡¯t you just sell the game you hunted yesterday? A pot of Sour Plum Soup doesn¡¯t cost much, you should buy it.¡±


    ¡°Just look at the scorching sun, your grandparents are also getting on in years, it will be good for them to have some Sour Plum Soup to cool off.¡±


    This time she didn¡¯t only appeal using the children, she even brought up Tong Tiehu and Qian¡¯s family.


    Tong Sang lowered his head, continued his work, and ignored her.


    ¡°What¡¯s the matter? You saved a lot of silver, and you just sold your game yesterday. Are you unwilling to buy a pot of Sour Plum Soup for our family?¡±


    ¡°If you want to drink it, let my second brother figure out a way.¡± Tong Sang quickened his pace.


    ¡°It¡¯s not just me who wants to drink it, think about our whole family.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Tong Sang looked up at the other members of the Tong family and, carrying his spade, walked towards them.


    Seeing this, Zhu Hongyun stamped her foot and quickly followed him. ¡°Wait a minute, I¡¯m your sister-inw, is this how you treat me?¡±


    Tong Sang slightly knitted his brows, lightly inhaling before tapping his toes on the ground. His body lifted into the air.


    He gracefullynded next to TongTiehu, ¡°Grandfather, my Sister-inw insists on me going to Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s house to buy Sour Plum Soup.¡±


    Tong Tiehu was also holding a spade. He looked up at Zhu Hongyun, who was walking toward him, took off the straw hat he was wearing, and used it as a fan to relieve the heat. ¡°When did Miss Xiaomai start running a restaurant at her home?¡±


    Tong Eng was right beside Tong Tiehu and although he was young and strong, he could not match Tong Tiehu¡¯s work speed. Hearing this, he quickly said, ¡°Sour Plum Soup? That¡¯s a great idea. This is the perfect time to drink some.¡±


    ¡°Little brother, aren¡¯t you and Miss Xiaomai close? Go and ask her.¡±


    ¡°Exactly, Qiao Xiaomai must want to marry Sang, otherwise why would she have sent soup so many times before?¡± Zhu Hongyun had reached them by then and picked up the conversation.


    ¡°That¡¯s excellent. Since they are going to be family sooner orter, why bother buying anything? It¡¯s her responsibility to make Sour Plum Soup for us.¡± Tong Eng said.<div>


    ¡°Yes, she is the youngest and hasn¡¯t gotten married yet. Consider it as her trying to please our entire family.¡± Zhu Hongyun added.

 Chapter 411: 411: Events of the Past (Part 3)

    Chapter 411: Events of the Past (Part 3)<div>


    Why didn¡¯t she wait a few more years, why didn¡¯t she wait for him¡­


    No, no, he had already conquered the world, she didn¡¯t need to wait, all she had to do was show herself willingly.


    Why did he painstakingly search for thirty years, only to find her ashes in the end?


    Because, because she was in love with Gu Yu.


    It was simply because she was in love with Gu Yu.


    That was the answer to all the questions.<div>


    She didn¡¯te forward, she didn¡¯t wait for him, she exined the reason why Gu Yu had broken the alliance that year, made some suggestions about the political situation, asking him to spare Gu Yu¡¯s descendants.


    Spare them.


    The word she used was ¡°spare them¡±.


    In fact, truth be told, he never truly hated Gu Yu.


    When they became sworn brothers back then, it was mainly because they had simr interests, being both wealthyndowners with simr backgrounds, reading the same books, and familiar with the same martial arts.


    They hadmon hobbies and plenty to talk about.


    How many such friends can you meet in a lifetime?


    So they became brothers and formed an alliance.


    Then Gu Yu broke the alliance¡­


    He could guess the reason why.


    A friend¡¯s wife must not be coveted, yet he fell in love with her.


    Even though he hid it well, Gu Yu¡­ must have sensed it, right?<div>


    So Gu Yu broke the alliance and led his troops northward, he was not angry, he was the one who felt guilty.


    That¡¯s why he ordered that this matter not be discussed openly.


    But he didn¡¯t think he had done anything wrong, he couldn¡¯t control his love for her, but he restrained himself and did nothing, even intentionally avoided her.


    But Gu Yu still got angry and left.


    He didn¡¯t hate Gu Yu, he admired him.


    And he was annoyed.


    What a waste, he had gunpowder, such a divine weapon, but still lost to Fu Xuan, forcing her to hide in a small mountain vige.


    She deserved the best in the world!


    She deserved only the best¡­


    She who should have been a respected matron, ended up dying alone in a small mountain vige, asking him to spare Gu Yu¡¯s descendants.


    Facing Gu Yu¡¯s descendants, what reason did he have to eliminate them all?


    That terminology was too strong.<div>


    Really, Gu Yu¡¯s descendants were also her descendants.


    She had saved his life.


    And gave him gunpowder, an invincible divine weapon.


    He should have treated the Tong Family well.


    But the situation at that time prevented him from favoring the Tong Family. He had to follow the n she had made,ting all the Aristocratic Families in one swoop.


    Thus, in the end, he only took her letter of will, and silently returned to the Capital City.


    Not long after his return, he abdicated and retired behind the scenes.


    Emptied out life, these five words weren¡¯t just a casual description for him.


    All his ambitious dreams, the world, the Aristocratic Families, he was tired.


    Twenty years have passed since he abdicated his throne.


    Twenty years, such a long time, had just passed by.


    He left the Capital City again to visit her.<div>


    When hest left, he nned to see her onest time after everything was over.


    But now, even though everything isn¡¯t over, he couldn¡¯t help but have toe.


    The treasure is gone.


    The Tong Family has been exposed.


    He needed toe and see for himself.


    Perhaps this really is thest time.


    He is already eighty-nine this year, an age few ever reach.


    After this visit, there wouldn¡¯t be a next time.


    His life, it wasing to an end.@@novelbin@@


    He sighed softly to himself, turned to Qiao Xiaomai, and smiled, ¡°Tell me about what¡¯s happened in your household since your mother left.¡±


    The girl in front of him was quite legendary herself.


    Pretty impressive, she was almost on par with her.<div>


    Qiao Xiaomai didn¡¯t know what was going on in Yang Wenxiao¡¯s mind, but since he asked, she started to tell him.


    Anyway, the recipes were all her idea and there was nothing she needed to hide.

 Chapter 445: 445 Overstepping Boundaries, Deserving a Beating!

    Chapter 445: Overstepping Boundaries, Deserving a Beating!


    Zhang Family had just heard the ins and outs of the matter, and she didn¡¯t think that Zhu Hongyun and Tong Erng were wrong.


    Anyone who¡¯s not blind can see that Qiao Xiaomai wants to marry Tong Sanng.


    If that¡¯s the case, why it would be wrong for her to make some Sour Plum Soup and send it over?


    Can you marry the one you love without putting in some effort?


    ¡°Makes sense? What kind of twisted logic is that? Xingda!¡± Tong Tiehu red at Tong Xingda.


    Tong Xingda immediately red back at Zhang Family, ¡°You damn woman, get lost! Why should a pure and innocent girl like Xiaomai serve you?!¡±


    ¡°Because she wants to marry Sanng and because I¡¯m San Tang¡¯s mother!¡±


    ¡°Then wait till she marries into the family! Right now, she has nothing to do with Sanng!¡± Tong Xingda stood up when Zhang Family started arguing with him hands on hips, ¡°You stinking woman, have you grown bold?!¡±


    ¡°For all these years that you¡¯ve been married into the Tong Family, when have we done you wrong? You¡¯re looking to take a mile when we give an inch? Seems like your skin¡¯s itching!¡±


    To be honest, in the beginning, Tong Tiehu and Tong Xingda did feel guilty about the usations from the family.<div>


    But this guilt wasn¡¯t deep at all.


    Because none of these people were penniless, or in such dire straits that they had to sell their homes and themselves.


    Therefore, when these people startedining, their shallow guilt dissipated quickly.


    Once guilt was gone, it would be easier to raise their hands.


    These people, these dissatisfied people.


    They had be ustomed to the good life, so now when times got a little tough, they became confrontational.


    He had lost his emperor, yet he said nothing, and these people, they acted as if the sky is falling, who are they trying to impress with this?


    Was his loss really the greatest?


    No, it wasn¡¯t!


    Zhang Family didn¡¯t expect Tong Xingda to hit her and she screamed out, ¡°Head of the family, what did I say wrong?!¡±


    ¡°Everything you said was wrong! If you feel the Tong Family owes you something, go back to your mother¡¯s house!¡± Tong Xingda stormed towards Zhang Family.


    Seeing that Tong Xingda was serious, Zhang Family stomped her feet, and began to run.


    Though she was worried about Tong Erng, she was also about to be physically punished, so she had better hide first.


    Therefore, this little piece ofnd became lively.


    Tong Xingda chased after Zhang Family to hit her, and Tong Erng was pinned to the ground, getting beaten with a hoe.


    Tong Sanng listened to the pandemonium, and his lips tightened.


    In his current family situation, even if Qiao Xiaomai dared to marry him, he wouldn¡¯t dare to take her.


    Filial piety prevented her from confronting Zhang Family openly.


    Having gone through so much to sever the ties with Sun Family and escape the pressure of filial piety, he couldn¡¯t drag her back into this kind of vortex.<div>


    Qiao Xiaomai didn¡¯t know about the chaos happening at the Tong¡¯s house, she was staring at a man and woman at her doorstep, her brows furrowed.


    The man was in his twenties, ordinary-looking, but the look he gave her was joyful.


    Qiao Xiaomai knew him ¨C this was her master¡¯s uncle, Zhuang Liihe¡¯s half-brother, Zhuang Jia.


    The woman looked to be in her forties or fifties, also ordinary-looking. Her face, like tree bark, showed traces of time, her face was full of wrinkles.<div>


    Right now, the woman was examining Qiao Xiaomai from head to toe with a skeptical and picky gaze.


    Qiao Xiaomai also recognized her, she was Zhuang Liihe¡¯s stepmother, Hua Xiaofeng.


    Before Zhuang Liihe got married, Hua Xiaofeng made every effort to use Zhuang Liihe like a work horse. However, when Zhuang Liihe was almost forced to marry Qiao Chang¡¯an, she rushed to Anping Vige to have a big fight with Sun Family, which finally allowed Zhuang Liihe to marry Qiao Changshun.


    This was a formidable character who could go toe to toe with Sun Family and not fall behind.

 Chapter 414: Account Books and Ledgers

    Chapter 414: ount Books and Ledgers


    The area near the secret tunnel had undergone major changes, with arge open space cleared out and soldiers guarding the surroundings.


    Yang Wang drew closer, ¡°Grandpa Emperor, would you like to take a break and have some tea?¡±


    ¡°Grandpa Emperor, let¡¯s take a rest.¡± Yang Ye also chimed in.


    Yang Wenxiao grunted in affirmation, nced around and took a seat on the chair.


    Despite the cool mountain air, the summer heat had caused a thinyer of sweat to form on his body as he arrived near the secret tunnel.


    A maid came over with a teapot and poured him some tea.


    ¡°Gu Sheng, sit.¡± Yang Wenxiao pointed to a chair nearby.


    Tong Tiehu quickly waved his hand in refusal, but after a stern nce from Yang Wenxiao, he hurriedly sat down carefully.


    ¡°Where is the ount book for disaster relief?¡± Yang Wenxiao asked.


    Tong Tiehu looked quickly towards Tong Sang, who was standing nearby with Qiao Xiaomai.


    Tong Sang stepped forward, opened the cloth bag he was holding, and respectfully said, ¡°Every expenditure for the thirty million taels of silver and the full ount of the treasure are all in here.¡±


    Yang Ye took over the bag of cloth and passed it to Yang Wenxiao.


    Even though the ount book was well-preserved, one could tell at a nce that it had weathered many years. @@novelbin@@


    Yang Wenxiao opened the topmost book, and what entered his eyes were the distorted brush strokes, causing him to pause, his heart filled with a mix of emotions.


    With a silent sigh, he focused his eyes on the content.


    The first entry read: In the first year of the Great Cause era, the southeastern province of Yangling suffered a flood. Fifty thousand taels of silver were used to purchase food and set up gruel sheds to aid the victims.


    The Great Cause, it was the reign title Yang Wenxiao used during his time as Emperor.


    In the first year of the Great Cause, his first year as Emperor, Yangling, which was at the southeastern border of Daqi, suffered from a disaster. At that time, Daqi was newly founded and national treasury was depleted. The disaster was finally relieved from his own private fund.


    Unexpectedly, that person had been secretly helping him ever since his first year as Emperor.


    Those were events that urred fifty years ago, memories of which had be somewhat blurred.


    But now these incidents were forcefully brought back to his mind in this way, catching him off guard.


    A surge of warmth coursed within his chest, and his eyes also began to heat up, his hand holding the book trembling slightly.


    ¡°Little Yezi,e, read it.¡± Yang Wenxiao closed his eyes.


    Yang Ye swiftly took over the ount book, looking worriedly at Yang Wenxiao, ¡°Grandpa Emperor, are you okay?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m fine, just a bit tired.¡±


    Seeing that his expression did not seem gravely unwell, Yang Ye bowed his head to read the ount book, only to be met with the distorted brushstrokes. The writing was even worse than when he first held a brush.


    Clearing his throat, he began to read:


    In the first year of the Great Cause era, Jiangdong Prefecture suffered a snow disaster. One hundred thousand taels of silver were used to purchase grains and clothes to aid the people.


    In the spring of the third year of the Great Cause era, Chuanyu Prefecture suffered a flood. Tens of thousands of fields were submerged, causing crop failure. Three hundred thousand taels of silver were used to purchase grains to aid the victims.


    In the spring of the third year of the Great Cause era, Heshi Prefecture suffered from a locust gue. The locusts destroyed all vegetation wherever they passed. Four hundred thousand taels of silver were used to purchase grains and seeds to distribute to the victims.


    In the autumn of the third year of the Great Cause era¡­


    In the winter of the third year of the Great Cause era¡­


    Yang Ye grew more and more astonished as he read.


    So many disasters happened in the third year of the Great Cause era?


    In just one year, the Tong Family had used one million taels of silver for disaster relief.


    Moreover, during disaster relief, human and material resources were definitely required, all of which needed silver.


    When Tong Tiehu first disclosed the figure of thirty million taels of silver, he merely considered it a number. But now, looking at this ount book, that unassuming number suddenly came alive.


    How much sorrow and bloodshed of themon people did it conceal behind?


    How many people were making silent sacrifices behind it?


    Moreover, with so many sessive disasters, how did his Grandpa Emperor manage to hold on?


    The Aristocratic Families must have taken advantage of the situation, right?


    Those must have been incredibly difficult times, right?

 Chapter 447: 447 - I will avenge your mother!

    Chapter 447: ¨C I will avenge your mother!


    The girl who stays beside the retired Emperor is beautiful and so naturally, many people were curious about her.


    So, information about Qiao Xiaomai was sought.


    Before this, she, along with Bai Zhi, and Chef Niu, had two culinarypetitions at Bailu Academy, and everyone at the Academy knew her.


    The students from Bailu Academy went back home and were talking to the old servants about her, leading Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s name to spread even further.


    Now she has appeared besides the retired Emperor and became his Royal Chef, which has made her even more famous.


    When the word about Qiao Xiaomai got around, it ultimately reached the ears of Hua Xiaofeng and Zhuang Jia, who hurriedly borrowed a donkey cart toe over.


    ¡°I was wondering why you didn¡¯te on Tomb-Sweeping Festival, and thought something had happened. But your aunt was about to give birth and everyone at home was busy, so we didn¡¯te¡±, Hua Xiaofeng took a sip of the sour plum soup and her eyes lit up.


    ¡°Your culinary skills are much better than your mother¡¯s, no wonder you can cook for the retired Emperor!¡±


    ¡± What happened to your mother?¡± asked Zhuang Jia, picking up his bowl, and his face became serious.


    Although Zhuang Liihe is ten years older than him and was not born of the same mother, Hua Xiaofeng didn¡¯t treat Zhuang Liihe well. However, Zhuang Liihe has always been very caring towards her younger brother.<div>


    Zhuang Liihe was good at cooking, even when the family was poor, she always tried hard to cook delicious meals for him.


    Ah, and he became a food lover because of her.


    With a sigh, he thought about the rumors and asked, ¡°Xiaomai, is it true that your mother ran off with that guy?¡±


    Hearing this, Hua Xiaofeng put down her bowl and sneered, ¡°Wasn¡¯t she forced by that old witch, Madam Sun?¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai nodded, ¡°Yes, my mother didn¡¯t want to marry me off to the dim-witted son of the Jiang Family, nor did she want Madam Sun to sell me to a brothel. She had no other choice but to leave.¡±


    ¡°Coward!¡± Hua Xiaofeng mmed the table in rage, ¡°How could she allow herself to be bullied by that old hag! Let¡¯s go, let¡¯s find her!¡±


    As she said this, she suddenly stood up, rolled up her sleeves, looking as if she can¡¯t wait to strangle Madam Sun.


    Seeing this, Qiao Xiaomai was surprised.


    Apart from a big fight that happened many years ago, before she was born, she has no memory of anything else.


    In the little memory she has, Hua Xiaofeng only visited a few times and every time she came, she was always picking on things.


    When they visited Zhuang Family¡¯s vige, she was always unsatisfied with Xiaomai¡¯s family.


    But whether it was righteousness or dissatisfaction, Hua Xiaofeng was always verbal but never resort to violence.


    So, Xiaomai was surprised this time.


    When she finally came back to her senses, she hurriedly said, ¡°Grandma, sit down. I¡¯ve cut ties with Madam Sun, and also, the Vige Chief has driven her out of the vige. She¡¯s living far away on her field, let¡¯s not go there.¡±


    ¡± What of cutting ties? What of being driven out? She drove your mother away, should we let this go? She is your mother, your biological mother!¡± Hua Xiaofeng put her hands on her waist and shouted.


    Zhuang Jia nodded in agreement, ¡°That¡¯s correct, Xiaomai, tell your grandmother how Madam Sun treated your mother. When we heard your mother had left, your grandmother and I already knew it must have been Madam Sun causing trouble.¡±


    ¡°We came here today, one to check on your family and second to take revenge for your mother.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t be scared, your grandmother can beat that stubborn old woman, Madam Sun!¡±


    Hua Xiaofeng lost her husband when she was young. As a widow taking care of two children, she would have been bullied to death long ago had she not been tough.<div>


    Her toughness and fierceness were not superficial like Madam Sun¡¯s, whether it was fighting or arguing, she always put everything at stake.


    With this kind of attitude, she never lost a fight.

 Chapter 416: Enter the Secret Tunnel

    Chapter 416: Enter the Secret Tunnel


    Yang Wang had always firmly believed that there were no ghosts or gods in this world. Any so-called disappearance was simply due to mechanisms that he was not aware of.


    Such arge batch of treasure could not have been transported out without a sound, so the treasure must still be in Anping Vige.


    The trenches he dug were incredibly useful!


    Upon hearing this, Yang Wenxiao nced at him sideways, ¡°Let¡¯s first take a look in the secret tunnel.¡±


    ¡°Alright.¡± Yang Wang waved his hand, and Hu Tian immediately came forward and handed him the brick, ¡°Grandpa Emperor, this blood-stained brick is evidence enough.¡±


    Yang Wenxiao¡¯s gaze lingered on the brick for a moment and then nodded, ¡°Hmm, let¡¯s look into the secret tunnel.¡± @@novelbin@@


    With that, he stood up.


    Seeing this, Yang Ye signaled, and immediately a guard came forward carrying a simple pnquin.


    Going up the mountain was one thing, the former emperor could manage.


    However, this secret tunnel stretched underground for more than ten miles ¡ª far too long, a pnquin was necessary.


    And it wasn¡¯t just the former emperor who was prepared a pnquin, the dean of the valley had one too.


    Yang Wenxiao waved his hand, ¡°First, let¡¯s go in and take a look.¡±


    Her suicide note mentioned the secret tunnel, but he had not yet gone in to see it.


    Finally, havinge all this way, he wanted to carefully examine this secret tunnel rumored to have been built with divine skill.


    With Yang Wenxiao leading, the group ventured into the secret tunnel.


    All the bricks were neatly arranged, extending as far as the eye could see.


    Torches illuminated the tunnel as if it were daylight. Yang Wenxiao reached out and gently ced his hands on the side wall.


    The bricks felt very smooth, and although they looked like y bricks used by the poor to build houses, he well understood their toughness.


    Impervious to sword or dagger.


    It seemed that only gunpowder could destroy them.


    Anything she touched turned exceptional, there were no mediocre items from her.


    He couldn¡¯t see through her, too many mysteries surrounded her like a mist, preserving her aura of mystery.


    The miraculous bowl of rice.


    The recipe for gunpowder.


    How she managed to hide such arge batch of treasures from Fu Xuan¡¯s sight.


    How she built such a masterful secret tunnel.


    Unsolved.


    All of this remained unsolved.


    She was like a being that didn¡¯t belong to this world, like a fairy who had fallen into the mortal realm.


    A fairy¡¯s techniques are naturally startling and inexplicable.


    With a sigh, he slowly moved forward.


    A quarter of an hourter, both he and the dean of the valley had mounted the pnquin.


    Yang Wang followed by his side, carefully ttering him, ¡°Grandpa Emperor, these bricks are so tough, why not dig them up and bring them back to the Capital City? If used on the city walls, they would be like imprable armor.¡±


    Hearing this, Yang Wenxiao nced at him andughed, ¡°What, do you think Capital City¡¯s defenses are not strong enough?¡±


    ¡°In such matters, the stronger the better. Leaving these bricks in such a small mountain vige seems to be a waste,¡± said Yang Wang.


    Once the treasure matter was settled, this secret tunnel would definitely be sealed up.


    Burying so many bricks underground was too wasteful.


    ¡°We¡¯ll discuss thister.¡± Yang Wenxiao did not respond directly.


    Overhearing this from behind, Qiao Xiaomai couldn¡¯t help grinding her teeth.


    This Yang Wang was too hateful; he never abandoned the idea of digging up her home.


    Damn!


    ¡°Qiao Xiaomai,e here.¡± Just as she was cursing in her heart, Yang Wenxiao suddenly called out.


    She was startled and quickly regained herposure, revealing a deceptive smile. She hurried over, ¡°I¡¯m here.¡±


    ¡°Qiao Xiaomai, this underground depot is right under your house, and the depot roof happened to have that brick, what do you think could be the most likely situation?¡± Yang Wenxiao asked.


    ¡°Um¡­ To answer His Highness, when I first heard about this, my first thought was¡­¡± She paused.


    ¡°What was it?¡±


    ¡°I was reminded of the incident at Qingyi Manor¡­ perhaps, Grandpa Tong¡¯s mother is still alive?¡±

 Chapter 417: Your family has committed a serious fault, it must be punished

    Chapter 417: Your family hasmitted a serious fault, it must be punished


    Upon hearing this, Yang Wenxiao fell silent.


    His thoughts were the same.


    The vanishing with the treasure, she had done this impossible thing before, it wouldn¡¯t be inconceivable for it to happen again.


    But he was certain that she was dead.


    Dead.


    Her body was burnt to ashes and buried under a crooked tree.


    In this world, her dazzling silhouette no longer existed.


    She was dead.


    He must look for other reasons.


    Could it really be, as Yang Wang said, the Tong family had used a mechanism to temporarily move the treasure?


    Was the treasure still in Anping Vige?


    The incident had happened so suddenly, the Tong family didn¡¯t know that he was aware of everything, so in their panic, they might have used a mechanism to move the evidence. This was a possibility.


    But looking at Tong Tiehu and Tong Sang¡¯s reactions, the grandfather and grandson duo didn¡¯t appear to be lying.


    The two of them were clueless¡­


    Then there was only one possibility left: she had an heir.


    But why would the heir move the treasure?


    Leaving the treasure there wouldn¡¯t have got the Tong family in any trouble, since they had the secret edict, neither Yang Wang nor Cen Hong could do anything to them.


    Could it be that she wanted to continue her previous n?


    That made sense.


    This batch of treasure, hadn¡¯t even nearly achieved its intended purpose.


    His original idea was to use this treasure to attract all the raucous aristocratic families and incite them to kill each other, allowing him to reap the benefits without lifting a finger.


    But who would have expected, that man proposes and god disposes.


    Shuifeng Prefecture had experienced an earthquake which opened up a secret tunnel, discovered early by Yang Wang and Cen Hong.


    Those aristocratic families hadn¡¯t even had the time to find this ce. @@novelbin@@


    Moreover, Yang Wang and Cen Hong were too clever, raising such a ruckus by nning to dig out the entire vige, forcing him to make a move.


    ording to his original n, he was only to appear once those aristocratic families had worn each other down fighting for the treasure.


    Appearing early like this, none of his goals had been achieved.


    What should he do?


    He sighed inwardly and said, ¡°She is dead.¡±


    His tone was tinged with destion.


    Everyone around him could hear hismentation, and no one dared to speak.


    They silently travelled to the underground vault.


    No need to mention the grandeur of the vault, especially when all this had been done without anyone in Anping Vige knowing.


    Everything rted to her was too mysterious.


    Yang Wenxiao stepped down from the pnquin and began to walk slowly around the surroundings.


    Yang Wang held a brick, unsure of what to say.


    About the time for a cup of teater, Yang Wenxiao spoke: ¡°Let Gu Sheng and his son stay, everyone else leave.¡±


    These words surprised many.


    Yang Wang immediately said, ¡°Grandpa Emperor, this is not advisable!¡±


    Tong Sang¡¯s martial arts skills were high; if he wanted to hold the Emperor hostage, it would be as easy as lifting a finger.


    ¡°Leave.¡± Yang Wenxiao did not say much, only uttered these two words in a cold tone.


    Yang Wang¡¯s body shivered involuntarily, he answered in respect.


    A group of people quickly all left, leaving only Yang Wenxiao, Tong Tiehu, and Tong Sang in the underground vault.


    ¡°Did she leave any words before she died?¡± Yang Wenxiao asked.


    ¡°Responding to the Emperor, my mother simply said that she could finally meet my father.¡± Tong Tiehu replied respectfully.


    Yang Wenxiao¡¯s fist, hidden under his wide sleeve, suddenly clenched.


    Finally, she had used the word ¡®finally¡¯.


    Good, very good.


    His guess wasn¡¯t wrong at all, she loved Gu Yu immensely.


    Taking a deep breath, he asked again, ¡°Are the treasures really gone?¡±


    ¡°Yes, I, Tong Tiehu, swear to the sky. If I have hidden the treasure, may I die a horrible death and suffer all the torments in the world.¡± Tong Tiehu said with a serious expression.


    ¡°Mm, I believe too that God is watching.¡± Yang Wenxiao nodded, ¡°In that case, your Tong family is indeed guilty of a grave mistake.¡±


    Tong Tiehu clenched his teeth, ¡°I am willing to ept the Emperor¡¯s punishment.¡±


    ¡°How much wealth does your family have at present? Including the ie from Tingfeng Pavilion and Jiji Residence.¡± Yang Wenxiao asked.

 Chapter 418:1 Know All About Your Rebellion Plot

    Chapter 418:1 Know All About Your Rebellion Plot


    At those words, Tong Tiehu¡¯s face turned as pale as ash, his body shuddered a few times, and his legs gave out, causing him to involuntarily fall.


    Tingfeng Pavilion!


    Jiwei Residence!


    He had no inkling how much the Grand Emperor knew before, therefore he had always thought that as long as the Grand Emperor failed to produce evidence of his rebellion, he would stubbornly deny it.


    What was the Grand Emperor saying now?


    The Grand Emperor was mentioning Tingfeng Pavilion and Jiwei Residence, this implied that the Grand Emperor knew everything!


    Good heavens!


    Tong Third son, who was standing beside him, quickly steadied him after seeing this.


    Yang Wenxiao saw his reaction and chuckled, ¡°Don¡¯t be afraid. Your younger brother, Prime Minister Yu Ang; I do understand his rebellious ns that your mother had arranged for him.¡±


    ¡°To aid me in dealing with all those defiant Aristocratic Families.¡±


    The Aristocratic Families, existing for hundreds of years, have their power permeating all facets of Daqi.


    He managed to keep those Aristocratic Families in check by relying on gunpowder and his elite troops, but he knew that they were not genuinely submissive, and detested him as an emperor of lowly origin.


    However, he couldn¡¯t obliterate all those people.


    The officials of Daqi regions were predominantly from these Aristocratic Families, if he were to destroy them, who would administrate at the grassroots level for him?


    They can¡¯t be obliterated.


    With the threat of gunpowder and elite troops, those Aristocratic Families, although engaged in asional subversive actions, dared not to overstep the line.


    Hence, a subtle bnce was achieved between the two parties.


    He vigorously promoted the Imperial Examination, elevating the schrs not from Aristocratic Families, hoping to slowly rece those local officials.


    Although his n was pursued with difficulty, there was a certain degree of sess after several decades.


    Then he found her, found out about her n.


    She nned to use this batch of treasures to attract all the Aristocratic Families here, and let them fight each other for the treasure. Not necessarily killing each other, but this ce was far away from the emperor¡¯s reach. He had the gunpowder, he could blow them all up at once and uproot those Aristocratic Families.


    This n was quite good and he agreed with it considerably, so the treasure map started to circte in the world.


    This was a slow process, but fortunately, the final goal was all situated in this direction.


    But unexpectedly, Yang Ye was the first one to find this ce, incidentally drawing Yang Wang and Cen Hong here too.


    None of the people from Aristocratic Families arrived.


    The ones who shouldn¡¯t havee, came; the ones who should havee didn¡¯te at all.


    The n that he and she worked on for twenty years turned out to be aplete failure.


    How frustrating it was.


    However, fortunately, this batch of treasures was currently missing. @@novelbin@@


    Since they were missing, this n could still proceed.


    ¡°It¡¯s a pity that this n didn¡¯t achieve its original purpose.¡± Yang Wenxiao sighed.


    TongTiehu ¡°¡­¡±


    Tong Third son ¡°¡­¡±


    This conversation carried a great deal of information.


    The two men were stunned, and it took them quite a while to digest it thoroughly.


    Once Tong Tiehu understood what exactly was happening, he couldn¡¯t help but feel like crying. My dear mother, since this rebellion was a sham, why couldn¡¯t you inform me beforehand?


    If he had been informed earlier, he would have definitely put forth his best efforts to y along, he surely would have.


    Do you know how hard andplicated his life has been?


    A child of ten, burdened with the great responsibility of avenging his father¡¯s death and plotting a rebellion, how hard it had been for him.


    Both physically and mentally, his life was quite tolling.


    His grandson also lived a hard life because of it, even afraid to marry.


    When facing the woman he loved, he wished he could lower his head into the dust, desiring to burn himself solely for her, such a sight was heart-wrenching.


    iming that they had to avenge their father¡¯s death and to fulfill the unaplished grand enterprise of their ancestors, under such a heavy and great banner, what was the truth?


    Truth was, they were nning for the future of the Yang Family¡¯s Mount Jiang!


    It was indeed not my birth mother.


    Only a stepmother would dare to use and torment him the way she did his whole life.


    Sorrowful, so sorrowful indeed.

 Chapter 451: 451: Demanding Sour Plum Soup

    Chapter 451: Demanding Sour Plum Soup


    For the Qiao Family, Mrs. Zhang was an unusual visitor. It was her first timeing to their house.


    Qiao Xiaomai immediately thought of Tong Sang, and quickly stood up, ¡°Auntie, why are you here?¡±


    Could something have happened to Tong Sang?


    Mrs. Zhang stood at the door, gave a smile, and said, ¡°I came to tell you something.¡±


    ¡°What is it?¡± Qiao Xiaomai walked towards the doorway.


    ¡°Everybody went to nt sweet potatoes today, right? On such a zing day, with people of all ages out in the field, I thought I¡¯de and ask you if you could make a pot of Sour Plum Soup. I¡¯ll deliver it to them in the fieldter.¡±


    ¡°Both your Grandfather Tong and Sang are in the field right now. The sweet potato seedlings are in abundance, and they won¡¯t be back until everything is nted. Everyone¡¯s working really hard.¡±


    After hearing what Mrs. Zhang said, Qiao Xiaomai was stunned for a moment.


    She couldn¡¯t believe that Mrs. Zhang came all the way for such a trivial matter.


    Qiao Xiaomai looked at Mrs. Zhang carefully.<div>


    Mrs. Zhang was beaten by Tong Xingda today. Although her hair was still neat and her clothes showed no trace of the fight, her slightly red eyes betrayed her plight.


    To put it bluntly, Mrs. Zhang disliked Qiao Xiaomai a lot, and the beating she received today was because of Qiao Xiaomai, so her smile was a bit forced.


    Qiao Xiaomai noticed Mrs. Zhang¡¯s unusual behavior, she slightly tilted her head, and asked, ¡°Who wants to drink the Sour Plum Soup?¡±


    It definitely wasn¡¯t because of Tong Tiehu and Sang.


    Neither the grandfather nor the grandson would do something like asking for Sour Plum Soup.


    Upon hearing Xiaomai¡¯s words, Mrs. Zhang¡¯s smile froze for a second. She had made the effort of visiting in person, yet Qiao Xiaomai wasn¡¯t readily agreeing. Did Xiaomai still want to marry her Sang or not!


    ¡°Of course, it¡¯s Sang who wants to drink it.¡± She took off the smile from her face and said solemnly.


    ¡°Oh, is that so?¡± Qiao Xiaomai smiled, ¡°Can it wait until this afternoon? I am currently eating, and we have guests at home.¡±


    She said this as she pointed to Hua Xiaofeng and Zhuang Jia who were sitting under the willow tree.


    At this moment, Hua Xiaofeng had already walked over, Sour Plum Soup?


    What¡¯s that?


    She scanned Mrs. Zhang from head to toe with her sharp eyes and huffed, ¡°Xiaomai, who is this? She traveled all the way in the hot sun just to beg for a bowl of Sour Plum Soup?¡±


    ¡°How poor must a household be to resort to begging? She¡¯s not dressed like someone who needs to beg though?¡±


    Beg for food?


    As these words were spoken, Mrs. Zhang¡¯s face instantly darkened.


    She red at Hua Xiaofeng, ¡°It seems to me that you are the one begging for food.¡±


    The clothes that Hua Xiaofeng wore were much inferior to hers.


    Hua Xiaofeng scoffed, ¡°If you¡¯re not here to beg, then what are you here for? Xiaomai, who is this? I¡¯ll go to your vige and ask around, see which wife in your vige is so pathetic that she ran all the way here to beg for Sour Plum Soup.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai looked at Hua Xiaofeng, but there was no smile on her face, ¡°She¡¯s the wife of the Vige Chief of Anping Vige.¡±<div>


    Even though she wasn¡¯t keen on Mrs. Zhang, she was after all, Sang¡¯s mother.


    She wasn¡¯t too thrilled to see her being treated this way by Hua Xiaofeng.


    If Sang found out about this, he would certainly not feelfortable either.


    Realizing this, she quickly said before Hua Xiaofeng could continue, ¡°Auntie, we have guests at home right now and I can¡¯t make the soup. I¡¯ll make it in the afternoon and deliver it to you in the field, is that alright?¡±<div>


    It was just a pot of Sour Plum Soup. Mrs. Zhang, her future mother-inw, personally came to ask for it, so she would oblige.

 Chapter 420:1 Want to Marry You

    Chapter 420:1 Want to Marry You


    Yang Wenxiao exined a few more details, but when he saw that the grandfather and grandson still looked gloomy, he snorted with augh, ¡°Why worry when you have that little money god, Qiao Xiaomai?¡±


    Upon hearing this, Tong Tiehu felt bitter inside.


    The money Qiao Xiaomai earned was hers. Even if she was to marry Tong Sang, the Tong Family could not touch her money.


    ¡°Alright, let¡¯s proceed with it, Sang, call everyone back and head out.¡± Yang Wenxiao ordered.


    Tong Sangplied and used his agility to go call Yang Ye and the others.


    Yang Ye and the rest of the group hadn¡¯t moved too far away and quickly arrived. The guards lifted Yang Wenxiao and began to walk out.


    By the time they exited the secret tunnel, it was already noon.


    The royal chef who apanied them from the Pce had prepared lunch. Yang Wenxiao ate a bit randomly. He had no intention of going down the mountain and, leaning on his cane, headed towards the crooked tree halfway up the mountain.


    Seeing this, Yang Ye hastily followed with several dozen guards.


    Of course, Yang Wang followed as well.


    The rest of the group stayed at the entrance to the secret tunnel, waiting for orders.


    The rest of the lunch was managed by the army cook, who was in charge of the soldiers¡¯ meals. There were so many people and because they were on the mountain, the preparation was very basic. They used the noodles that were originally stored in the Jiweiju and mixed it with green vegetables and pork, boiling severalrge pots of soup.


    No oneined, everyone took their bowls and steamed buns, and found a ce to eat lunch.


    Tong Sang cut down arge tree and quickly made a few small benches. He gave one to Tong Tiehu, and the rest were upied by him and Qiao Xiaomai.


    The head of the valley, due to his high status, did not need these rudimentary stools. As for others without rtion, he couldn¡¯t care less.


    They found a spot under a tree, a certain distance from everyone else, where Qiao Xiaomai and Tong Sang sat together for lunch.


    Because of what Yang Wenxiao said earlier, the ill-fated couple no longer needed to hide like thieves.


    They could now openly sit together.


    The army cook¡¯s meal, normally generous in style, was a thick slice of fatty meat, oily looking, which was particrly unappetizing in the hot noon sun.


    Qiao Xiaomai picked out a fewrge pieces of fatty meat from her bowl and put them all in Tong Sang¡¯s bowl.


    Tong Sang happily epted them. He picked out the vegetables from his bowl and put them in Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s, advising ¡°Eat more, we¡¯ll have to stay here all day.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai nodded and asked, ¡°What did the Former Emperor just tell you?¡±


    Usually, she and Tong Sang maintained a distance.


    But just now, Tong Sang approached her directly, and the feelings in his eyes were not as concealed as they used to be.


    This attitude made her curious, but she didn¡¯t resist it and cooperated very well.


    ¡°He said my grandfather and I lost the treasure and need to be punished.¡±


    ¡°How will you be punished?¡±


    ¡°All family assets will be confiscated, including the vinegar shop in town and the fields at home.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai


    Her beautiful eyes widened with surprise, ¡°Everything has been taken?¡±


    ¡°Yes. Also, he said if you don¡¯t marry me, he will take you back to Capital City and put you in the Imperial Kitchen.¡± Tong Sang added.


    As he said this, his face was filled with a bright smile, and his dark eyes were sparkling.


    Contentment.


    Very content.


    Fortune turns with time, blessing to those in despair. He was on the verge of being brought to hell, and now he was about to seize a beautiful prize.


    Truly, prayers can create miracles! @@novelbin@@


    Qiao Xiaomai stared at his handsome face, her eyes widening even further, ¡°Did the Former Emperor really get into our business?¡±


    ¡°Yes!¡± Tong Sang nodded, his face unable to conceal his smile, ¡°The sword that was always hanging over our heads, has disappeared!¡±

 Chapter 421: Her Name is Liuli

    Chapter 421: Her Name is Liuli


    The suspended de overhead was gone!


    Qiao Xiaomai stared at Tong Sang in a daze, taking a while toe back to her senses.


    The shock in her eyes turned into a smile, which flowed out from her pupils, filling her entire small face.


    She couldn¡¯t help butugh in great joy, ¡°His Majesty the grand emperor is truly wise and brave!¡±


    I know, so I couldn¡¯t wait toe to you immediately. From now on, we don¡¯t have to avoid each other. We can be together in broad daylight.¡± Tong Sang alsoughed.


    Just like how Qiao Xiaomai picked fatty meat and put it into his bowl, the two wouldn¡¯t have dared to act like this in the past.


    Now they can be bold and unrestrained!


    ¡°Hmm!¡± Qiao Xiaomai nodded heavily with some excitement.


    This is great, this is great!


    This Emperor Emeritus is so understanding and reasonable!


    The understanding Emperor Emeritus, Yang Wenxiao, leaning on his cane, slowly came to a crooked-neck tree.


    A robust crooked-neck locust tree halfway up the mountainside, under which was buried someone¡¯s skeleton.


    Yang Wenxiao asked Yang Ye, Yang Wang and others to retreat. He stood alone before the tree. The sun shone through the leaves onto him, casting mottled light and shadow. A breeze blew, rustling the leaves of the tree.


    ¡°Liuli, I¡¯vee to see you.¡± Yang Wenxiao murmured these words, his usually bright and sharp eyes bing unusually clouded.


    Sighing, he casually sat down.


    ¡°The grass under this tree is growing quite robustly.¡± Yang Wenxiao used his cane to sweep at the wild grasses over a foot tall, ¡°Just like you, you used to seem like you had endless vitality.¡±


    As he spoke, he put down his cane and began to pluck the wild grass, muttering, ¡°Gu Sheng told me that when you came here, you seemed to have aged more than a decade and lost all your spirit.¡±


    ¡°Aging over a decade and losing all spirit, I find it hard to imagine this happening to you.¡±


    At this point, Yang Wenxiao paused; his grass-plucking motions also stopped.


    He touched his chest gently, a self-mocking smile appearing on his face, ¡°Was it because of Gu Yu? Was his death such a blow to you?¡±


    Truthfully, I¡­ envy him¡­¡±


    He sat his hand upon his chest again but said no more, continuing to clear the wild grass under the tree.


    After he had cleared all the wild grass, he sat down again, sighing deeply, ¡°I¡¯ve aged. Even plucking a few pieces of grass feels tiresome.¡±


    ¡°Next time¡­ I suppose there won¡¯t be a next time, huh.¡±


    ¡°Traveling from the Capital City here, this old body of mine can hardly stand it. Luckily, when you gave me a bowl of rice back in the day, I managed to survive. Otherwise, even if I were lucky enough to live on, I wouldn¡¯t have made it to this day.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s all thanks to you that I am what I am today. But you¡­ You didn¡¯t get to see this flourishing world¡­¡±


    The red figure appeared before his eyes again. Yang Wenxiao¡¯s eyes welled up. He lifted his head, looking at the lush foliage of the tree.


    ¡°I wish I could have taken you with me, taken you back to the pce, and had you buried with me when I die. I would be able to see you every day, not like now, where after twenty years, I can only see you once¡­¡±


    ¡°I won this entire world, but I lost you.¡± @@novelbin@@


    Thinking back to the harrowing journey many years ago, he couldn¡¯t help but clench his teeth, ¡°I don¡¯t understand. Gu Yu had gunpowder, he had elixirs, so why did he lose to Fu Xuan?¡±


    ¡°If I had known this would be Gu Yu¡¯s end, I would have locked you by my side at all costs.¡±


    A missed opportunity was a missed lifetime.


    [Well, His Majesty will leave tomorrow, and then we¡¯ll get back to farming. Happy Children¡¯s Day, my dear little ones! Goodnight!]

 Chapter 454: 454 Ill tear your mouth apart!

    Chapter 454: I¡¯ll tear your mouth apart!


    Qiao Changshun quickly waved his hand to exin, ¡°No, mother, you¡¯ve misunderstood. Xiaomai was injured on those asions, and Sang had no choice but to carry her for treatment.¡±


    ¡°Anyway, everyone saw Xiaomai getting close to Sang, now she can only marry him.¡± Zhang Family¡¯s matriarch scoffed.


    Hearing this, Hua Xiaofeng promptly turned her anger towards her, ¡°What vulgar nonsense! My Xiaomai is pure and innocent! Don¡¯t you dare tarnish her reputation!¡±


    ¡°Take a look at yourself before making such ims. My Xiaomai cooked for the Emperor! What is your son to her? He¡¯s a toad desiring the meat of a swan, I spit!¡± Hua Xiaofeng hurled a mouthful of spit towards the matriarch.


    ¡°I¡¯m warning you, if you dare to ruin Xiaomai¡¯s reputation again, I¡¯ll go to the academy and report you to the headmaster!¡±


    In Hua Xiaofeng¡¯s eyes, Xiaomai¡¯s worth skyrocketed overnight like a firework.


    Having cooked for the Emperor and acquainted with two princes, on top of her culinary skills, such qualifications made Xiaomai a prime marriage candidate even for an official.


    Now, this beggar of a woman from the Zhang Family dared to link her son with Xiaomai. This was uneptable!


    Zhuang Luhe¡¯s flight would undoubtedly damage Xiaomai¡¯s reputation, and now this shrew from the Zhang¡¯s was ndering her further. If these rumors are not curtailed, how could Xiaomai marry into a respectable family?!


    The better Xiaomai marries, the more benefits she stands to gain!<div>


    This matter must be rified today!


    At Hua Xiaofeng¡¯s outburst, Xiaomai, who was holding the food box, puckered her lips. Qiao Changshun rubbed hisrge hands together, stammering, wanting to exin but not knowing what to say.


    From the woman¡¯s perspective, this matter was certainly damaging to her reputation.


    Xiaomai and Tong Sang had mutual affection, but since the Tong family had not proposed marriage, he could not say anything.


    The silence from the Qiao Family was met with fury from the Zhang Family¡¯s matriarch.


    Being the daughter-inw of Vige Chief Tong Tiehu, she had been in Anping Vige for decades and nobody dare to talk to her like this, and now a lunatic out of nowhere dared to insult her!


    She stomped her foot, cursing fiercely, ¡°It was Xiaomai who seduced my son first! If you don¡¯t believe me, go ask Xiaomai yourself!¡±


    ¡°What utter rubbish! Xiaomai couldn¡¯t even look strangers in the eye before, it¡¯s clearly your son who saw her looks and high status and deliberately tricked her with sweet talk!¡± Hua Xiaofeng shouted back, ¡°Talk nonsense one more time, I dare you, I¡¯ll rip your stinking mouth apart!¡±


    ¡°Let me remind you, just because you¡¯re the daughter-inw of the Vige Chief doesn¡¯t mean you can tarnish others¡¯ reputations at will. If you dare say one more word, I¡¯ll swell your filthy mouth!¡±


    With these threatsing from her mouth, Hua Xiaofeng arrogantly took a few steps towards Zhang Family¡¯s matriarch.


    Having never dealt with such a brazen woman, the matriarch instinctively took a step back in fear.


    Hua Xiaofeng, like a victorious general, held her head higher and shot a triumphant look at the matriarch, snorting heavily.


    Left shaking from anger, the matriarch waspletely helpless.


    Xiaomai quickly packed up the dishes into the food box. She didn¡¯t have a food box before, this one was brought by Yang Ye for Yang Wenxiao, and now it wasing in handy.


    After packing a whole table of food into two big food boxes and a basket full of steamed buns, Xiaomai turned to the matriarch with a beaming smile, ¡°Auntie, don¡¯t be angry. Come, I¡¯ll walk you home.¡±

 Chapter 423: Do You Feel Wronged?

    Chapter 423: Do You Feel Wronged?


    The imperial decree imed no detection of the Tong Family¡¯s rebellion nor any connection between the Tong Family and the Prime Minister. It only held onto the fault of the Tong Family losing the hidden treasure and hence the decision to confiscate their property.


    Though the treasure was forcibly seized by Prince Pingnan, it hade from the people.


    If it wasn¡¯t for considering that the Tong Family had already spent thirty million taels on the people, they would have been doomed to imprisonment.


    Losing something that belonged to the people was indeed a mistake!


    The vige was in an uproar when the imperial decree was released.


    These days, vigers knew that there was a secret tunnel in the mountain, which likely held a vast treasure.


    But for them, the key word in this matter was ¡°likely¡±.


    If it might be there, then it was not.


    Even though the Emperor Emeritus had arrived, they had all treated this matter as a tale.


    This kind of story was too distant for them, so distant that they didn¡¯t even entertain the notion that it was truth.


    But now, the Emperor Emeritus has issued an imperial decree, iming the Tong Family was the descendants of Prince Pingnan, that there was indeed a treasure trove in the mountain¡¯s secret tunnel, and that the Tong Family had lost it. @@novelbin@@


    Who was Prince Pingnan? Hardly anyone knew.


    But a hidden treasure? Wasn¡¯t that too far-fetched?


    Looking at the Tong Family¡¯s daily appearance, they did not seem to be people who had a treasure trove.


    Their farm was not even asrge as Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s. They mostly wore linen clothes, and though they had white flour to eat at every meal, it was normal considering they hadnd and a shop in town.


    This family, whether judged from the top down or bottom up, did not seem to be people who possessed a hidden treasure!


    Not only were the vigers puzzled, but the Tong Family themselves were as well.


    Regarding the treasure, only Tong Tiehu, Tong Xingda, and Tong Sang from the entire Tong Family knew. Everyone else was clueless.


    When the imperial decree came down from Yang Wenxiao, everyone waspletely dumbfounded.


    The treasure was too distant and too alien to them, so they didn¡¯t take it much to heart. What they cared about was their confiscated property.


    Their vinegar shop was sealed off.


    Leading to Tong D and his family having to move back to the vige.


    Their farnd was alsopletely taken.


    Despite having a shop in town, at the end of the day, the Tong Family were country folk, and to such people, thend was their lifeblood.


    The Tong Family had lost almost two hundred acres ofnd, including that which was bestowed upon the Tong men and that which was purchased over the years, all gone in an instant.


    Their family savings were alsopletely taken.


    The Tong Family had never split up. The produce from thend and the ie from the vinegar shop were all managed by Tong Tiehu. Their umtion over decades had amounted to thousands of taels of silver.


    Therefore, previously, Lady Zhang was not afraid of splitting up the family. Knowing that they had a solid foundation, even after the split, their living conditions would still be better than most families in Anping Vige.


    But now, thousands of taels of silver were gone.


    The vinegar shop, thend, the savings,


    These three most important things were gone in a blink of an eye.


    They didn¡¯t enjoy any blessed event when the treasure was there, and now they had to fall from prosperity to barely making ends meet because of their losing of this unknown treasure.


    Without a vinegar shop, without farnd, without any savings, the house only held the thousands of pounds of grain harvested at Mai Shou.


    With just a little bit left, how would they survive the future?


    How would they survive the future!


    And now that their names were posted before the Emperor Emeritus, would he bestow any further punishment when he recalls this matter?


    Heavens!


    Would they have to live in endless fear from now on?


    It¡¯s not fair! It¡¯s just not fair!


    With this in mind, those Tong Family members who were kept in the dark immediately pointed their fingers at Tong Tiehu, Tong Xingda, and Tong Sang.


    In the past, they never dared to do such a thing.


    Now that they suspected they couldn¡¯t make a living anymore, if they didn¡¯t vent their bottled-up anger, they would go crazy!


    When faced with the angry family, Tong Tiehu was surprisingly calm, his face still holding the usual seriousness. He said, ¡°What is it? You feel wronged?¡±

 Chapter 424: But This is the Best Outcome

    Chapter 424: But This is the Best Oue


    ¡°Of course it¡¯s unfair!¡± Tong Erng burst out, ¡°That treasure, you hid it from us, alright, you hid it, but you lost the treasure! It affected the whole family!¡±


    Tong Tiehu looked at him, calmly opening his mouth to ask, ¡°I ask you, the good times you¡¯ve had in the past neen years, who provided them for you? Was it because you were born, that our family immediately had fields and shops?¡±


    Tong Erng¡¯s face turned red for a moment, he was no god, how could he have been born with such a miracle.


    Seeing that he couldn¡¯t speak, Tong Tiehu looked at the Qian matron, ¡°Wife, I ask you, the several decades of good times you¡¯ve had since you married into this family, who provided them for you?¡±


    Mrs. Qian stammered, unable to answer.


    When Tong Tiehu married her, Daqi had just been established not long ago, and most families in this area were poor.


    When the Tong Family fled to here, they had a small savings and the craftsmanship to make vinegar. Such a family was hard to find, so when the matchmaker came to propose, she happily married into the family.


    Life after marriage was as she had imagined, at first she even worked in the fields, butter life got better and better, she only needed to cook and do housework, and never worked in the fields again.


    For farmers who struggled for food in thend, this was a rare blessing.


    Moreover, she only gave birth to one son, Tong Xingda.


    One son was too few, every family in the vige had several, but Tong Tiehu never med her for anything, he still treated her as usual.


    So she had always been quite fortunate, her belly was notpetitive, she was not particrly capable nor was she especially beautiful, but her life has always beenfortable and satisfactory.


    Now, faced with Tong Tiehu¡¯s question, she opened her mouth, unable to speak a word.


    The good times she had enjoyed over the past few decades were all provided by Tong Tiehu¡­


    Seeing that Qian matron was also silent, Tong Tiehu looked at Tong Dang, ¡°Nowyou say, the good times you¡¯ve had in the past twenty-one years, who provided them for you.¡±


    Tong Dang, with a simple and honest face, he smiled, ¡°It was Grandpa.¡±


    He was the eldest grandson of the Tong family, and had been in charge of the vinegar shop since getting married, livingfortably in the town for several years.


    ¡°So it was me who provided it for you. Now, due to my negligence, the treasure is lost. As a result, the Emperor Emeritus has decreed to confiscate everything. So you all feel aggrieved, right?¡±


    ¡°Of course it¡¯s unfair. Father, we were living such good lives, then, all of a sudden, disaster struck. Anyone would feel resentment,¡± the Zhang Family started to speak.


    Upon hearing this, Tong Tiehu looked at her, ¡°That¡¯s what it means to be a family. If one person makes a mistake, the whole family has to suffer. Just like Qiao Chang¡¯an, he got into trouble and as a result his two daughters were sold into very.¡±


    ¡°Our home now has no shops, fields, or savings, but we still have thousands of jin of foodgrains. We still have the skill to make vinegar, and you all still have some money hidden away. Life will be harder than before, but it is absolutely not the end.¡±


    ¡°The good times before were given by me, now the good times require us to earn them together.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s normal to feel resentment, but remember, I¡¯m still the Chief of Anping Vige, still the head of this family. Our family, will not copse.¡±


    ¡°As long as we unite as one, it¡¯s only a matter of time before our family returns to how we used to be.¡±


    Faced with this situation, Tong Tiehu was prepared.


    Anyone who encountered such a situation would feel ufortable, he understood the resentment of these people. @@novelbin@@


    But, this is already a good oue, isn¡¯t it?

 Chapter 457: 457: It Should be the Tong Family Coming to Propose

    Chapter 457: It Should be the Tong Family Coming to Propose


    Bringing Zhuang L¨¹he into this certainly adds weight to the matter.


    Thinking of the hardships Zhuang L¨¹he had endured over the years, Qiao Changshun lowered his head. He lifted his hand and harshly rubbed his face, falling silent.


    Seeing this, Hua Xiaofeng huffed loudly, pointing at his head as she scolded fiercely, ¡°Tell me, tell me why you had to save Xiaohe? It¡¯s because of your rescue that she became devoted to you!¡±


    ¡°And what came of it? All your courage in this life was spent on that rescue! In front of the Sun Family, you were a coward, watching as she was beaten by them!¡±


    ¡°My beautiful daughter, ignoring the schrs to marry you. And you?¡±


    ¡°You have made her suffer for decades and now n for Xiaomai to follow in her footsteps. A poor husband, an ipetent father, what good are you?!¡±


    With this torrent of scolding, Qiao Changshun lowered his head even further, his eyes welling up with tears.


    Just as Qiao Xiaomai was entering the house, she saw this. Frowning, she said, ¡°Father, help me build the fire.¡±


    ¡°And you! Xiaomai, women should be courted by men. Rushing into this will only make that shrew contemptuous and bullying towards you!¡± Hua Xiaofeng immediately directed her fire towards Xiaomai upon her arrival.


    ¡°His home was confiscated, he is the descendant of a rebel, he has a mother like this. Xiaomai, do you really want to marry such a man?¡±<div>


    Qiao Xiaomai smiled, ¡°Grandma, calm down a little, this is a long story.¡±


    ¡°No matter how long it takes, your attitude today is wrong. If they¡¯re treating you like this before you¡¯re even married, your life will be worse than your mother¡¯s once you actually marry!¡± Hua Xiaofeng firmly advised, considering their wellbeing and her partiality towards Xiaomai.


    ¡°Now you have skills,nd, silver. You are self-reliant, standing even taller than Rooster Mountain. Why face such indignity?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t make the same mistake your addled-brained mother did. For a woman, if one wrong step is taken in choosing a husband, it affects her whole life. Let me tell you, when I was young I¡­¡±


    Once Hua Xiaofeng started, she went from talking about Xiaomai to Luhe, then from Luhe to her own experiences, speaking without a breather right up until Xiaomai served the newly cooked meal.


    The central theme of the conversation was simple: A woman¡¯s life isn¡¯t easy, tread with caution while choosing a husband, Xiaomai with her current prospects deserves a better family.


    Even if she¡¯s crazy or mule-headed enough to marry that Tong Sang, she must show stern decisiveness. The Tong family should be courting her, not the other way around.


    Throughout the conversation, Xiaomai listened with a smile, responding asionally.


    Hua Xiaofeng is blunt, not mincing words even about Tong Sang, but Xiaomai wasn¡¯t angry.


    In her family, there was a need for an elder like Hua Xiaofeng.


    Preferably one who could stand up to the Sun family.


    Honestly, she did not have a strong opinion about the Zhang family, but due to the idea of filial piety weighing on her, there were many things she had to tolerate.


    But Hua Xiaofeng was different, her argumentative capability was strong. Earlier, she had left the Zhang family speechless.


    It was a good feeling.


    Also, Hua Xiaofeng did raise a valid point.


    Because of Tong Sang, she did not take much notice of the Zhang family¡¯sments. However, if the Zhang family continued to boss her around, it would annoy her.


    Right now, the Tong family¡¯s situation was worse than hers.


    She hadnd and a hefty purse, standing tall and proud.


    Given the circumstance, it should be the Zhang family who should invite the matchmaker and humbly court her.<div>


    The Zhang family truly hadn¡¯t grasped the situation.


    Hua Xiaofeng pointing this out was definitely necessary.

 Chapter 426: You All Have Private Stashes of Silver

    Chapter 426: You All Have Private Stashes of Silver


    ¡°Indeed, Grandpa, we heard that the treasure came from the National Treasury of the previous dynasty. Such a pile of good things, did you not hide away a bit?¡± Tong Eng, hearing Zhang¡¯s words, immediately asked with glistening anticipation in his eyes.


    At these words, the Qian Family, and eldest of the Tong Family all turned to look at Tong Tiehu.


    Well, shouldn¡¯t they be able to keep a bit of the loot given they guarded such arge amount of treasure?


    Tong Tiehu looked at the others¡¯ eagerly bright eyes and slowly shook his head. ¡°No, I didn¡¯t hide a single thing. All the items are ounted for in a specific ledger, I didn¡¯t touch any of them, and that ledger has now been handed over to the retired emperor.¡±


    ¡°How is that possible!¡± Mrs. Zhang leaped up from her chair.


    By now it was already nightfall, the sky was dark, but nobody was in the mood to eat.


    The family¡¯s vinegar shop had been closed today, and the eldest of the Tong Family had returned to the vige with their luggage in a cart drawn by an ox.


    The deeds for the family¡¯s farnd had been handed in, as had their savings.


    Suddenly being left with nothing, the family sat in the hall to discuss the matter.


    ¡°What is all this fuss about?¡± Tong Xingda reprimanded, ¡°Sit down! If father didn¡¯t take a thing, then I certainly didn¡¯t, and neither did the third son!¡± ¡°Moreover, even if we had taken something, could we use it at this time? If we dared to use it, the retired emperor would immediately send people to confiscate it.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t think I don¡¯t know that you¡¯ve umted quite a stash of private silver over the years, enough to live on.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Tong Tiehu nodded, ¡°Exactly, you all have private money, and we can make do.¡±


    Transactions done in private, Tong Sang had an amount of 5000 taels.


    Part of it was sry from his position as the deputy of Tingfeng Pavilion, the rest was rewards from small torge.


    Most of it was rewards, and these rewards were primarily from Tong Liu.


    However, Tong Tiehu also contributed significantly. The grandsons of the Tong Family usually received ten taels during the Lunar New Year, while children from other families would be happy with just a few wen.


    Ten taels were indeed arge sum in the countryside.


    The eldest, second, and third sons of the Tong Family, including the two children of the eldest son, all received ten taels during the Lunar New Year.


    This money did not have to be turned over to Tong Xingda or Mrs. Zhang.


    Also, if they needed more money for daily expenses, they could always ask Tong Tiehu for more.


    In this matter of money, Tong Tiehu never treated his children harshly.


    As for managing the vinegar shop at home, while Tong Xingda and Mrs. Zhang were formally in charge of the ie, however, they were of a certain age and also had grandkids. Therefore, they should have some money to spend.


    Mr. and Mrs. Tong Dng have to feed a child, taking care of the vinegar shop is hard work. Thus, they too should be paid.


    That is to say, the ie from the vinegar shop andnd all fell to him; however, a portion of it was given to Tong Xingda and Mr. Tong Dng.


    Furthermore, the daily expenditures for the family are generally handled by him; others do not have much to spend.


    Thus, it can be inferred that over these years, each one of them must have saved quite an amount of money, and not a small sum. @@novelbin@@


    Now that their primary assets were depleted, still, the house was there, as were the cattle, sheep, pigs, and chickens; everyone also had some hidden money tucked away; thus, they were more than capable of making ends meet.


    Not only could they survive, but they were also faring better than most of the households in the vige!


    ¡± What can we do with such a small amount of private savings? It would all go into buying just a few pieces ofnd¡­¡± Mrs. Zhang muttered.


    ¡°We don¡¯t need much; if we buy a lot, we won¡¯t be able to handle it. I think, buying ten acres will suffice. The food we reap would be enough to pay the taxes and feed our own house,¡± Tong Tiehu said.


    ¡°Top-gradend costs ten taels per acre. That would be a hundred taels for ten acres. Who¡¯s going to foot the bill?¡± Zhu Hongyun, who had remained silent till now, instantly chipped in on hearing this.

 Chapter 459: 459 I Didnt Say I Was Going to Marry Her

    Chapter 459: I Didn¡¯t Say I Was Going to Marry Her


    Earlier this morning, when Zhu Hongyun from the Zhang family insisted on having the sour plum soup made by Qiao Xiaomai, he had raised this issue explicitly.


    Qiao Xiaomai never consented to marriage, and it was not right for these people to harass her with such presumptuousness.


    So what about Lady Zhang?


    She had been punished just this morning, but by noon she kicked it up a notch.


    She didn¡¯t just want the sour plum soup, she wanted rice now!


    She wanted rice!


    His daughter-inw, Tong Tiehu, took it upon herself to run to someone else¡¯s house to ask for food!


    This was humiliating!


    Besides being shameful, this act had an even more abhorrent nature to it.


    Brashly intruding into people¡¯s homes to demand food ¨C what kind of behavior was that?<div>


    That¡¯s nothing short of bully exploiting their power!


    This was outright presuming that Qiao Xiaomai wouldn¡¯t fight back!


    ¡°Let me remind you, Qiao Xiaomai never agreed to marry Sang. Keep this point straight in your mind. You barged into their home asking for things just because you are the vige chief¡¯s daughter-inw. When did you turn into a bandit? Xingda, hit her!¡±


    ¡°Hit her hard! Let¡¯s see if she dares to do it again!¡±


    Tong Xingda ringed with fury, ced the pottery jar on the ox cart, strode over to Lady Zhang, grabbed the cor of her dress, and pped her hard, ¡°You damn woman, even dared to ask for food, I¡¯ll teach you a lesson for disgracing me, I¡¯ll teach you a lesson for disgracing me!¡±


    As his hand bashed down, there followed a loud ¡°smack, smack, smack¡± sound. He did not hold anything back. After seven or eight ps, Zhang¡¯s cheeks swelled instantly, with bloody trail appearing at the corners of her mouth.


    Tong Xingda, still unsatisfied, lifted his foot and kicked her in the back hard. Shouting simultaneously, ¡°you stupid woman, you¡¯ve made me lose all my face! Next time you dare to show off your status, I¡¯ll teach you a lesson you won¡¯t forget!¡±


    Tong Xingda was truly furious.


    He was not as foolish as Lady Zhang. Regarding the value of Qiao Xiaomai, he had a clear understanding even before the esteemed emperor¡¯s visit.


    After the emperor¡¯s visit, this understanding became even clearer.


    This girl, Qiao Xiaomai, must be on his side.


    However, his family was not average, having once been wealthy and affluent, so there was no need to overly fawn upon Qiao Xiaomai. The current situation was just fine ¨C both parties equal.


    But what about Lady Zhang?


    Lady Zhang actually ran to Qiao Xiaomai to ask for rice!


    She worked hard to prepare the meal, just put it on the table and it was demanded by someone else. If that person was Tong Sang, it would have been okay, but it was Lady Zhang.


    Tong Xingda did not believe that Qiao Xiaomai respected Lady Zhang much ¨C she was a person who dared to hack at her own body with a knife and cut off rtions with her grandmother.


    Such a person should be treated equally and handled with good words and respectful attitude.


    He gently pointed this out to Lady Zhang this morning.


    But this was how Lady Zhang responded to his advice.<div>


    She deserved to be beaten!


    She deserved to be beaten to death!


    If this stupid woman scared Qiao Xiaomai off from marrying Tong Sang, then it would be a significant loss for the Tong family!


    Tong Xingda gritted his teeth as Lady Zhang was beaten until she was rolling around screaming on the ground.<div>


    Everyone was terrified, standing still, hardly daring to move.


    Just at that moment, Tong Sang came back.


    He finished his share of work early. As Tong Tiehu didn¡¯t allow him to help anyone else, he decided to stroll around nearby using his light kung fu skills.


    Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s ce was quite near to here.


    Who knew that the moment he came back, he would witness such a brutal scene.


    He rushed forward to stop it, ¡°Father! What are you doing?!¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m making her remember. Look at her, she dared to run to Qiao¡¯s house and ask Xiaomai for food!¡± Tong Xingda pointed angrily at the food boxes on the ox cart.


    Tong Sang ¡°¡­¡±


    After he overcame his surprise, he stepped forward to stop Tong Xingda, ¡°Mother, I have never said that I wanted to marry Miss Qiao, and Miss Qiao has also never said that she wants to marry me. You are to stop bothering her at her house from now on.¡±

 Chapter 428: I’ll Handle the Silver

    Chapter 428: I¡¯ll Handle the Silver


    Zhu Hongyun, in her confusion and excitement, was struggling to articte her thoughts clearly.


    But her central point was made clear: Tong Sang was more capable of making money than she was.


    Tong Sang had the privilege of apanying Tong Tiehu to the Capital City in the past, an honor not bestowed upon others.


    He had spent a considerable amount of silver on his education, which was funded by the family, not by himself. Books were costly, hence over the years, Tong Sang had be the biggest spender in their family.


    As an unmarried man, he had no wife or children to support, meaning he had minimal expenses.


    Therefore, the conclusion was clear ¨C Tong Sang, who had enjoyed many special treatments and saved quite a lot of money in the past, should now contribute a hundred taels of silver!


    Tong Sang was ¡°¡­¡±


    All he had was a little over twenty taels of silver and a few copper coins given to him by Qiao Xiaomai. He could not produce one hundred taels¡­


    However, only Tong Tiehu knew about Tong Sang entrusting his allowance to Qiao Xiaomai. While he didn¡¯t outwardly spend money, everyone present believed he had some savings.


    Under Zhu Hongyun¡¯s expectant gaze, he slowly nodded, ¡°I need my savings for my studies. I¡¯ll go hunting and sell therger game to the Extreme vors Inn.¡±


    The original reason Qiao Meipan had taken an interest in him was due to his prowess in hunting wild boars.


    Thergest beast on Rooster Mountain was the wild boar, but there were evenrger animals in the primordial forest nearby. He could hunt there.


    In any case, he couldn¡¯t ask Qiao Xiaomai for silver.


    It wasn¡¯t right to take back the money he had entrusted her with.


    He had the means to solve this problem on his own.


    ¡°Oh dear, in this state, you still want to study?!¡± Zhu Hongyun eximed in surprise. Studying was expensive!


    ¡°Precisely because of our circumstances, I must continue my studies. Once I pass the Imperial Examination, our family will see better days.¡± Tong Sang calmly stated.


    ¡°Is the Imperial Examination easy to pass? Sun Junyan has been studying in the Academy for ten years and hasn¡¯t passed yet!¡± Zhu Hongyun said, looking incredulous.


    Tong Sang initially learned to read and write under Tong Tiehu¡¯s guidance andter discreetly studied under a recluse in the mountains.


    However, his mentor could not publicly take credit, so to outsiders, it seemed he¡¯d been studying on his own all these years.


    If Sun Junyan, who studied under a master at the Academy, could not pass the examination, wasn¡¯t his confidence in his self-learning a joke?


    ¡°Let¡¯s follow Sang¡¯s n,¡± Tong Tiehu intervened, his face expressionless.


    Catching game was an easy task for Tong Sang.


    What grieved him the most was his family¡¯s current attitude.


    When their family was wealthy, and he was generous with his money, there were no disputes over finances.


    But what about now?


    Although their living conditions hadn¡¯t degraded to the extent of not knowing where their next meal woulde from, their reactions were disheartening.


    Was it their real nature or resentment that made them behave this way?


    Tong Tiehu suspected that it was resentment, but something told him this was their true nature. @@novelbin@@


    In times of adversity, everyone takes care of their own self-interest, busily counting every copper coin.


    This nature was hurtful.


    With a slight sigh, Tong Tiehu made a move to stand, ¡°Okay, it¡¯s settled then. Sang will go hunting in the mountains tomorrow. Everyone return to their chambers. Our lives continue as before. Those animals we¡¯re raising at the new residence need caring for. I¡¯ll go and check on them.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯lle too.¡± Tong Sang also stood up.


    ¡°Mhm.¡± Tong Tiehu responded, walking towards the door.


    Outside, the night was dark.


    His usually upright back slightly hunched.


    Observing this, Tong Sang pursed his lips and followed him out.


    Tong Xingda furrowed his brows, red at his wife, Zhang Family, ¡°Stupid woman!¡±


    With a low curse, he too, got up and left.

 Chapter 461: 461: Should be Gradual and Orderly

    Chapter 461: Should be Gradual and Orderly


    I dare not.


    But this grudge has definitely grown deep.


    Tong Tiehu indicated to Tong Xingda to stop. By then, both Madam Zhang and Zhu Hongyun were reduced to a bloody mess.


    Tong Tiehu sneered and nced at the food in the lunch box, dering, ¡°Let¡¯s eat. Xiaomai brought this food, and naturally, it is meant to be eaten, not thrown away.¡±


    ¡°Zhang and the second daughter-inw aren¡¯t allowed to eat.¡±


    Upon hearing these words, Tong Xingda sneered, saying, ¡°Eat, eat, eat, and go back to work when you¡¯re done. The sooner you finish, the sooner you can go home.¡±


    The others, stunned by the events, hurriedly began to wash their hands and eat.


    As for Madam Zhang and Zhu Hongyun whoy on the ground.


    Zhu Hongyun was cared for by Tong Eng, while Madam Zhang was left on the ground, being ignoring by all.


    Tong Sang, holding a steamed bun sandwiched with a piece of pork and stir-fried bean sprouts, stood next to Tong Tiehu and hesitated before saying, ¡°Grandfather, shall I take on some more work?¡±<div>


    ¡°Huh?¡± Tong Tiehu, holding a bowl of cold mixed cucumber, sat on the ground eating.


    Barely audible, he said, ¡°I think that even if we want everyone to train, we should proceed step by step. They¡¯re definitely not used to such intense work all at once.¡±


    Tong Tiehuughed and snapped, ¡°Tell me, is cutting grass hard work? Even children from other families can do it!¡±


    ¡°But our family members haven¡¯t worked in so many years,¡± Tong Sang replied, ¡°Grandfather, it¡¯s impossible to aplish anything all at once. If you make everyone work all day like this, they will definitely resist.¡±


    ¡°They¡¯re asking for it! They don¡¯t know how to appreciate kindness! They¡¯re taking advantage!¡± Tong Tiehu said indignantly.


    If these people hadn¡¯t shown their true colors so tantly, he wouldn¡¯t have been so angry.


    Forcing people to change means not holding back.


    Being too soft-hearted will only make these people more demanding.


    Hearing this, Tong Sang sighed helplessly.


    He quickly finished eating the steamed bun in his hand, picked up another, and started eating again, ¡°Really not going to let my mom eat?¡±


    ¡°Or, shall I take her and my younger sister-inw home? Especially my mother, who was kicked by my father several times. Shouldn¡¯t we have Doctor Wu take a look at her?¡±


    ¡°How filial you are! When she was causing trouble at Xiaomai¡¯s house, I didn¡¯t see her thinking about you!¡± Tong Tiehu retorted coldly.


    ¡°She has a deep misunderstanding about Xiaomai.¡±


    ¡°Enough, in this situation, you two better not get married yet. Just endure it for now.¡±


    Tong Sang ¡°¡­¡±


    Though it has been decided that they will marry after the provincial examination, will the situation improve by then?


    After today, his mother will hold even more grudges against Qiao Xiaomai.


    He felt so stifled.


    When did these grudges start?<div>


    Such a nuisance!


    With a heavy heart, he sighed quietly, finished his steamed bun in a couple more bites, and said, ¡°Grandfather, let me take my mother home.¡±


    ¡°This beating was meant to teach her a lesson. If you¡¯re going to keep coddling her, then all your father¡¯s efforts would be in vain! Hmph, if you have the energy, stroll in the vicinity. Xiaomai is nning to build a manor, isn¡¯t she? Go and survey the terrain again.¡±


    Tong Sang ¡°¡­¡±<div>


    He looked at Madam Zhang with concern, and then sighed heavily, ¡°Why? You¡¯re also getting yourself tired, Grandfather. I can go hunting and solve the problem quickly.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re getting old and confused.¡±


    ¡°No, I¡¯m not confused yet. I¡¯ll let you know when I am.¡±


    These people, he had to straighten them out!


    Seeing Tong Tiehu¡¯s determination, Tong Sang sighed helplessly again. He picked up another steamed bun, used his light skills, and left.


    With the situation as it was, it was better not to see it!

 Chapter 462: 462: Delivering Sour Plum Soup

    Chapter 462: Delivering Sour Plum Soup


    After having her meal, Qiao Xiaomai declined Hua Xiaofeng¡¯s request to stay and fight the Sun and Zhang families. She packed her donkey cart full of stuff and then sent Hua Xiaofeng on her way.


    Today, Hua Xiaofeng¡¯s furious rant had provided Qiao Xiaomai with a clearer way of thinking.


    Under the current circumstance, she couldn¡¯t be too eager, otherwise, it would make the Zhang family morecent.


    She could only wait for the Zhang family toe and propose for marriage.


    How to attract the Zhang family to propose marriage?


    Money.


    Because of money, the previously harmonious Tong family had instantly shown their ugly faces with bared fangs.


    She had money, she was the richest person in Anping Vige.


    She needed to unt her wealth appropriately.


    Well¡­how to do that?<div>


    Withouting to any conclusion, she poured the freshly made sour plum soup into a pottery jar, and then drove the ox cart towards the Tong family¡¯s sweet potato field.


    Since she had promised to send sour plum soup, she naturally had to deliver it.


    Of course, she also intended to see the end result for the Zhang family and Zhu Hongyun.


    This mother-daughter duo marching into her home to ask for food, Tong Tiehu wouldn¡¯t let them off easily.


    By the time she arrived at the Tong family¡¯s sweet potato field, umbre in hand, it was already mid-inning.


    After enduring half a day of sun exposure, everything from the wild grasses by the road, the crops in the field, and the people working in the field had wilted, especially the Tong family.


    Having livedfortably for so many years, nting sweet potatoes today was undoubtedly a hellish torture for them.


    Therefore, the sour plum soup delivered by Qiao Xiaomai was like a ray of light in this hell.


    Sour and sweet and cool, gulping down arge bowl in one go was refreshing!


    Tong Tiehu didn¡¯t expect Qiao Xiaomai to actually deliver the sour plum soup. He sighed, also went over to fill a bowl, and then motioned for Qiao Xiaomai to stand by his side.


    The rest crowded around the ox cart, each holding a bowl, drinking heartily one bowl after another.


    Tong Tiehu held the sour plum soup in one hand while using his other hand to wave his straw hat as a fan, saying, ¡°After Sang returns home, let him settle today¡¯s meal for you. It was wrong of your aunt toe to your house without notice to buy food.¡±


    ¡°Oh, Grandpa Tong, no need to. You¡¯ve helped me so much in the past. This small food offering is nothing,¡± Qiao Xiaomai quickly waved her hand.


    ¡°Helping you is my duty as a vige chief, and your offering to thank me shows good etiquette. But your aunt taking the initiative toe over, that¡¯s a different story.¡± Tong Tiehu spoke seriously, ¡°You¡¯re a pure girl, you shouldn¡¯t have to tolerate such nonsense.¡±


    As Tong Tiehu mentioned this, he cast a nce at Mrs. Zhang.


    After being beaten, she slowly sat up on her own once the pain subsided.


    With Tong Tiehu¡¯s words still resonating, no one helped her.


    Tong Xingda had beaten her with his own hands. Tong Eng, feeling sorry for Zhu Hongyun, only asked about her condition perfunctorily. Tong Dng asked a few superficial questions and took no action, while Tong Sang left outright.


    Men are unreliable, and so were her three sons. As the ground was scorched by the sun and was too hot to lie down on, she had no choice but to sit up.<div>


    Tong Tiehu said she wasn¡¯t allowed to eat, but there were still two steamed buns and half a te of vegetables left in the food box.


    She ate slowly, then continued with her work.


    Zhu Hongyun did the same.


    Although beaten, they still had to work.<div>


    There was no choice; today in the Tong family felt like hell, but if they returned to their maternal home, it would be an everyday hell.


    They have no way out and as such, they must endure everything that happened today.


    While dragging their feet, they saw Qiao Xiaomai arrive and Zhu Hongyun promptly came over.


    Although her cheek was swollen and ugly, and her body ached, she would never miss out on this sour plum soup.


    Sensing Tong Tiehu¡¯s gaze, she quietly turned her body, showing her back to him.


    Seeing this, Tong Tiehu snorted coldly, why had he been blind in the past to let this nest of stupid women into the family!

 Chapter 431: 431: Actually, Life is Still Bearable

    Chapter 431: Actually, Life is Still Bearable<div>


    ¡°I¡¯ve had my meal.¡± Tong Sang was saying as he pointed to Qiao Xiaomai. ¡°I¡¯m looking for Xiaomai.¡±


    ¡°Do you have something to discuss with her?¡± Qiao Changshun quickly called out to Qiao Dami who was ying under a tree. ¡°Dami, start the fire.¡±


    The situation had changed; the retired emperor had left, so had Princes Yang Ye and Yang Wang.


    The matter of his daughter¡¯s marriage could finally be brought to the table.


    Qiao Xiaomai and Tong Sang left the Qiao home. There were some things that couldn¡¯t be discussed in front of Qiao Changshun and Qiao Dami.


    Both of them ended up by the small river.<div>


    They found a rock to sit on, and Qiao Xiaomai asked, ¡°How are things at your ce now?¡±


    With a bitter smile, Tong Sang recounted the argument that had just happened at home. After a pause, he asked, ¡°Your father¡­ he doesn¡¯t seem to mind it at all.¡±


    It was strange. His whole family¡¯s property had just been confiscated, but Qiao Changshun¡¯s treatment of him had not changed.


    At his words, Qiao Xiaomai raised an eyebrow and instead of replying, she asked, ¡°What do you want to eat?¡±


    Since there had been a dispute, he definitely hadn¡¯t had dinner.


    Tong Sang gave a smile, and casually replied, ¡°Something sweet would be nice.¡±@@novelbin@@


    When the heart is bitter, one should eat something sweet.


    Upon hearing this, Qiao Xiaomai promptly took out a seven-inch fruit cake from her space, ¡°Here, definitely sweet from start to finish.¡±


    The sweet aroma immediately overwhelmed them. Tong Sang took a deep breath, epted the cake and spoon, and began to eat heartily.


    Under the moonlight, Qiao Xiaomai observed his expression. She fetched a bowl of clean water from her space and said, ¡°Don¡¯t choke.¡±


    Tong Sang nodded and took a sip from the bowl.


    The buttercream is so oily¡­<div>


    So sweet it almost choked him.


    Upon seeing this, Qiao Xiaomai couldn¡¯t help butugh. She exined, ¡°I had a talk with my father. I told him that your family is just an ordinary one now. The retired emperor is noble and won¡¯t hold grudges against you. My father takes things simply. What I say goes, that¡¯s why his attitude towards you hasn¡¯t changed.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s good,¡± Tong Sang said, draining the bowl of water in one go, envious of Qiao Changshun¡¯s simplicity.


    How nice it would be if his family were as simple as Qiao Changshun.


    ¡°As for your family¡¯s situation, it¡¯s not really a big deal. When your family had silver, everyone loved each other. Why don¡¯t you just try to restore your family¡¯s financial situation to its previous state?¡± Qiao Xiaomai offered her solution.


    ¡°But for now, let¡¯s wait until this storm blows over before we talk about it. Just bear with it for now.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Tong Sang couldn¡¯t help but chuckle bitterly, ¡°Do you think it¡¯s meaningful to maintain harmony in the family with silver?¡±


    He had never experienced an incident like this before.


    He had always thought his family was great.


    Although there were asional discrepancies inments and actions, generally speaking, his family was great and there was no conflict at all.


    But now, this incident had brutally shattered his impression.


    Without silver, his family was just like the Qiao family, fighting over their own interests. There was no sign of solidarity in the face of difficulties.<div>


    His family had only had most of their property confiscated. They still had their house, their livestock, their vinegar-making techniques, enough food tost till next year, and he could hunt.


    And his grandfather was still the vige chief.


    Adding all this up, his family was definitely better off than most families in the vige.


    Why did they have to be so calctive? They were family after all.


    What happened before was wrong of his grandfather, but he didn¡¯t intentionally deceive them.


    And after living a well-off life for so long, it¡¯s okay to lower their living standard a bit. Is it really necessary to make such a fuss?

 Chapter 464: 464: Shes Marrying Down

    Chapter 464: She¡¯s Marrying Down


    Tong Sang¡¯s bitter smile deepened, ¡°No, we already don¡¯t have enough people in our family as it is.¡±


    Marrying into Xiaomai¡¯s family was utterly impossible.


    ¡°So what should we do now? From the look of your mother earlier, I¡¯m afraid she¡¯ll hate me for the rest of her life.¡± The way her face swelled up showed she must have been severely beaten.


    This grudge, it will probably never be resolved.


    Tong Sang also fell silent, quickly finishing his ice cream. He handed the box to Qiao Xiaomai asking, ¡°Did your family have guests today?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, my grandmother, she¡¯s quite something. She was slinging out a string of words that left your mother trembling with anger.¡± Qiao Xiaomai recounted the situation from the early afternoon.


    Hearing this, Tong Sang looked astonished, ¡°Indeed, only a shrew like her could match the Sun family¡¯s strength.¡±


    ¡°Indeed, she¡¯s truly powerful. She never stops talking. My ears are still buzzing with the sound of her voice.¡± Qiao Xiaomai clicked her tongue a few times.


    ¡°But she does have a point, and it coincides with my and my grandfather¡¯s thoughts. It seems, from now on, we should try not to interact publicly. You should start building your manor.¡±


    ¡°Build it grandly, let the whole vige know, more importantly, let them know exactly how much money you have.¡±<div>


    Zhang Family has a deep-rooted impression of Qiao Xiaomai, a pitiful creature always seeking help when being oppressed by the Sun Family.


    So they always looked down upon Qiao Xiaomai.


    They knew Qiao Xiaomai was affluent, but they had no idea of the grandeur of her wealth.


    Therefore, the task Qiao Xiaomai needs to undertake at present is to unt her wealth: by constructing the manor.


    Furthermore, it would be better to invite some VIPs to boost her status.


    So that Zhang Family realizes that Qiao Xiaomai has greatly evolved both in terms of wealth and status, pertaining to their shing identitypared to the past. They should be fully aware of the current disparity between the two families.


    Qiao Xiaomai is no longer the pitiful soul that always came seeking help after being oppressed by the Sun Family.


    If Qiao Xiaomai gets married to him now, it would be a step-down for her.


    Whereas for him and his family Tong, it will be marrying above their station.¡±


    ¡°In that case, you should hire a construction team from the town tomorrow to construct your manor,¡± he suggested.


    People from Anping vige usually contact Tong Tiehu whenever they n to construct houses. Tong Tiehu informs everyone by ringing a bell, and whoever wants to earn some extra money can help out.


    Previously, Qiao Changshun went out to construct houses like this and ended up breaking his leg in the process.


    But constructing houses this way requires the homeowner to handle many things like purchasing bricks,ying the foundation, settlingbour costs, and the likes, which can be quite bothersome.


    The construction team in the town was initially formed under the lead of director Gu and its members are all skilled house constructors from nearby viges. When they are short on manpower, they hire people from the vige as well.


    Most of the houses in Bailu town were constructed by this team.


    ¡°When you hire this construction team, all you need to do is pay them. You don¡¯t have to worry about anything else.¡±


    ¡°But I haven¡¯t finished drawing the blueprints,¡± Qiao Xiaomai remarked.


    ¡°Then just start by constructing the perimeter wall for now.¡± No matter what you build, a perimeter wall is a must, ¡°The main aim is to let my mother see your wealth. Considering our family¡¯s condition, she will certainlye around soon.¡±


    ¡°By then, when we propose marriage to you¡­ and after you¡¯re married into our family¡­¡± Tong Sang pursed his lips.<div>


    By then, Zhang Family would probably try to take advantage of Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s wealth.


    He was worried she won¡¯t agree to marry.


    But if she agrees to marry and they start living together, it will lead to more annoying issues.


    What to do?<div>


    Would it be possible to solve the problem if we split the family?

 Chapter 465: 465: How are the Profits from this Vinegar Shop Distributed?

    Chapter 465: How are the Profits from this Vinegar Shop Distributed?


    On their way, Tong Sang and Qiao Xiaomai were discussing the division of their family assets.


    Tong Eng can¡¯t support himself, and given the current situation at home, he definitely wouldn¡¯t agree to the partition.


    Tong Dng controls the vinegar-making skills. If the family is divided, he might agree.


    But who would Tong Xingda and the Zhang Family stay with?


    This is hard to say.


    When they reached the entrance to the vige, Qiao Xiaomai subconsciously coughed a few times, ¡°Sang, am I doing something wrong?¡±


    She hasn¡¯t even married yet and she¡¯s instigating Tong Sang to divide the family. Tong Sang is very filial, she doesn¡¯t want to make him ufortable¡­


    Tong Sang understood her meaning, and replied, ¡°It¡¯s not your fault. I married you so we could live a peaceful life. Clearly, we can¡¯t do that now, so we¡¯re only trying to find a solution.¡±


    If it¡¯s about filial piety, he¡¯s indeed very filial.


    But this matter clearly can¡¯t be solved with filial piety alone.<div>


    Qiao Changshun was very filial, but his filial piety only led to Zhuang Luhe running away.


    He would never allow such a situation to happen to Qiao Xiaomai.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry.¡± Qiao Xiaomai patted his shoulder, ¡°you focus on studying and let me be a schr¡¯s wife for a while.¡±


    Tong Sangughed at her suggestion, ¡°That is absolutely no problem.¡±


    ¡°Then strive hard, young man.¡± Qiao Xiaomai alsoughed.


    Anyway, he still has two months until his township exams, and during this time there should be some good ideas.


    At the entrance to the vige, they parted ways, each returning to their own home.


    As for Hua Xiaofeng¡¯s suggestion to find Zhuang Luhe today, Qiao Xiaomai did not mention it.


    Tong Sang returned home, ground flour, did housework, and read for a while. When it got dark, he began to make noodles.


    He can make mostmon home-cooked dishes, but he couldn¡¯t guarantee the taste.


    After rolling out the noodles, he lit a candle to continue reading.


    It waste when the others finally returned home.


    Aside from Tong Tiehu, Tong Xingda included, everyone looked like they¡¯d been skinned, as if they hade from hell, staggering, struggling even to walk.


    Tong Dng and Li Rou held their sleeping children, their faces numb.


    Under Tong Tiehu¡¯s hardline tactics, they all suffered a lot.


    Tong Sang didn¡¯t say anything in response, and served them cool boiled water, then he lit a fire to cook the noodles.


    By the time the noodles were ready, everyone was so hungry they didn¡¯t care about the taste and gobbled down their food.


    After eating two bowls of noodles, Tong Sang went to find Doctor Wu, and asked him to examine Zhang Family and Zhu Hongyun.


    Doctor Wu had already gone to sleep, but Tong Sang woke him up and brought him over with his medicine box.<div>


    After a lot of fuss, the day finally ended when the moon was high in the sky.


    The next day, everyone in the Tong Family was bedridden.


    Those who do not work for long periods of time and then suddenly do heavy work will suffer from backaches the next day.


    Tong Tiehu with a cold face, woke everyone up.<div>


    They had finished nting the two acres of sweet potatoes, but the vinegar shop could now be opened as usual.


    This is currently the only source of ie for the family.


    Upon hearing this proposal, those who were originally tired and weary all perked up.


    But, Tong Eng raised a doubt first, ¡°Grandfather, will the ie from the vinegar shop still be distributed as before?¡±


    Tong Tiehu red at him, ¡°Those who do not work will not share in the profits.¡±


    Tong Eng got anxious, ¡°But I don¡¯t know how to brew vinegar!¡±


    ¡°There is also work in the fields.¡± Tong Tiehu said.


    ¡°Alright.¡± Tong Eng agreed reluctantly, his face wrinkled like tree bark.


    How terrifying.


    Work is so terrifying.


    Yesterday, he was almost worked to death.


    Tong Tiehu added, ¡°Besides, the vinegar shop won¡¯t be as profitable as before. The town had more people, but here in the vige, it¡¯s only a bit of small change.¡±


    ¡°Even if it¡¯s just a small amount of money, it still needs to be distributed, right?¡± Li Rou, who hadn¡¯t spoken much, couldn¡¯t help but speak up when she heard these words.<div>

 Chapter 434: 434 Yang Wang is a Lunatic

    Qiao Xiaomai and Tong Sang stared tightly at the pendant, holding their breath.


    After a good while, the scene before them remained the same.


    The blood was still blood; the pendant was still a pendant. The two didn¡¯t blend together, and no miracles urred.


    Tong Sang exhaled, ¡°See, it¡¯s useless. Keep it. Since the imprint of this pendant is already on your wrist, it probably belongs to you.¡±


    Hearing this, Qiao Xiaomai arched an eyebrow, said nothing, brought Tong Sang¡¯s finger to her mouth, and gently licked the small wound.


    Tong Sang stared at her close face, couldn¡¯t help but tighten his lips.


    ¡®This is great. Now that everything is settled, I can finally marry her.¡¯


    Unaware of Tong Sang¡¯s deep affection, Qiao Xiaomai licked his wound and then took out a fruit knife and Spiritual Spring water from her space. She first washed the bloodstains on the pendant, then cut her finger and dripped the blood onto the pendant.


    The two stared at the pendant breathlessly again.


    Just like before, the pendant showed no reaction.


    The situation when she first got her space didn¡¯t reappear.<div>


    ¡°Huh? Was it just a coincidence?¡± she couldn¡¯t help but take a closer look at the pendant under the shlight.


    ¡°Even if it¡¯s a coincidence, this pendant should belong to you.¡± Tong Sang was also a bit disappointed.


    He¡¯d thought that Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s space could be bigger again.


    He leaned in to gently lick Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s wound, and the small wound soon scabbed over.


    Qiao Xiaomai looked at the pendant over and over but couldn¡¯t find anything particr, so she said, ¡°I¡¯ll put it away then.¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s talk about the wedding.¡± Tong Sang immediately said, ¡°Given my family¡¯s situation, it¡¯s not suitable to get married now. How about we get married after I pass the county examination in autumn?¡±


    ¡°Oh, you¡¯re so sure you¡¯ll pass?¡± Qiao Xiaomaiughed.


    ¡°Of course.¡± He still had this level of confidence.


    The dean of the valley and Yang Wenxiao had both personally examined him, and both were quite satisfied.


    Although the Tong family will be an ordinary family in the future, it is necessary to have a schrly status.@@novelbin@@


    ¡°Alright.¡± Qiao Xiaomai thought for a moment and nodded in agreement.


    Now it¡¯s summer, and the weather is hot. Getting married in this weather would be too strenuous.


    ¡°Now you can think carefully about the wedding procedures.¡± Tong Sang said.


    ¡°Anything will do, we don¡¯t need to show off.¡±


    She had dreamed about the wedding before. Now, living a down-to-earth life is the most important thing.


    Tong Sang thought about it and nodded, ¡°I¡¯ll listen to you.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomaiughed and patted his shoulder, ¡°Good boy.¡±


    Tong Sang didn¡¯t say much. He picked up the spoon and continued to eat the cake, ¡°Hmm¡­ What did the two princes say to you before they left yesterday?¡±<div>


    The dowager emperor left yesterday, and Yang Ye and Yang Wang also left. But before they left, the two of them had each pulled Qiao Xiaomai aside to chatter away, which made him anxious.


    ¡± What could Yang Ye say? He¡¯s covetous about food. He wants me to remember to include him whenever I have something delicious, especially chili peppers. He has reserved all the chili peppers in our vegetable fields.


    ¡°Moreover, he said to notify him when we get married, and he will send someone to give us a wedding gift.¡±


    At these words, Tong Sang was slightly surprised, ¡°Does he really have no feelings for you?¡±<div>


    ¡°None,¡± Qiao Xiaomai shook her head like a rattle drum, ¡°He has been spoiled since he was a child and has countless women around him. I have a bad temper and ampletely charmless. If he likes me, that would be a miracle.¡±


    ¡°What about Prince Duan?¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai rolled her eyes at the mention, ¡°A toad lusting after a swan¡¯s meat. He is a lunatic. He thinks he has hidden his desires well, but the desire in his eyes has already been tantly exposed. Anyone who isn¡¯t blind can see it.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Tong Sang couldn¡¯t help butugh.


    Yes, he also thought Yang Wang was a lunatic.

 Chapter 435: 435: Whats mine is yours

    Before Yang Ye left, he simply expressed his love for fine food, and told Xiaomai to remember to share any delicacies shees across.


    He left a guard at the Academy for Xiaomai to give whatever delicious food she found.


    Of course, if Xiaomai needed anything, she could also go to the guard for help.


    Xiaomai happily agreed.


    She was more than willing to maintain such a positive rtionship with Yang Ye.


    However, Yang Wang was a different matter altogether.


    Before Yang Wang left, he expressed his true feelings for her.


    His confession left her so disgusted that she felt goosebumps all over her body and wished she could throw up her dinner on him.


    How dare he im love when he was constantly scheming to plunder her family?


    Pah!


    Shameless!<div>


    If it weren¡¯t for Yang Wang¡¯s status, she would¡¯ve definitely disabled him with a kick.


    Ever since her near assault, she had harbored a deep revulsion for such shameless men, and her first instinct was to disable their vile roots.


    Moreover, Yang Wang didn¡¯t just confess his love. He even promised her an eternal status as a concubine at the Wang Residence if Tong Sang ever mistreated her.


    Listening to him spout such nonsense made her curse inwardly.@@novelbin@@


    And thinking about it now, still made her curse resentfully.


    Damn it, a concubine?


    Even if she were the first wife, if she were remotely interested in him, that would be the day the sun rose from the west.


    Ignorant, arrogant men who look down on others through their nostrils, pah!


    ¡°I don¡¯t want to talk about him any more. The emperor must have spoken to him about our marriage, he would not dare to disobey the emperor¡¯s wishes,¡± Xiaomai said dismissively.


    Tong Sang nodded in agreement.


    ¡°Come on, eat more,¡± Xiaomai took out more food from her spatial storage, including stir-fried dishes and snacks. ¡°Are you sure you don¡¯t want me to give you some silver?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t need it. I¡¯m going to hunt,¡± he replied.


    ¡°But it is your silver anyway.¡±


    ¡°Once I gave it to you, it bes yours.¡± Tong Sang was insistent.


    ¡°Well, well, what¡¯s mine is also yours,¡± Xiaomai yfully retorted.


    ¡°Not the same.¡± He insisted that he had to earn the money for their wedding expense.


    ¡°Alright then, I¡¯ll go up the mountain to collect firewood tomorrow. We can go together,¡± Xiaomai did not force him. Respectful of the young man¡¯s dignity, she conceded.


    ¡°Sure.¡± Tong Sang remembered their unexpected encounters on the mountain and couldn¡¯t help grinning.<div>


    He would go to the mountain daily under the pretense of hunting, partly to protect the secret tunnel and partly to visit his mentor. However, he had unexpectedly bumped into Xiaomai several times.


    What a fate!


    Xiaomai turned off her shlight, took out a small table from her spatial storage and started chatting and dining with Tong Sang.


    The two hadn¡¯t been able to chat freely ever since Yang Ye came to the vige. They stayed out untilte night before returning to the vige.<div>


    When Xiaomai got home, Qiao Changshun and Dami were already asleep. The two agreed on a meeting ce for the next day, then reluctantly parted ways.


    Before dawn the next day, Tong Sang was already up. He had only slept for four hours but was full of energy.


    He first went to the new house to check on Tong Tiehu, then went up the mountain.


    He first climbed over Rooster Mountain to see his mentor.


    His mentor, an old man named Deng Chun who followed Liuli, was already over seventy, but was still strong and versed in both literary and martial arts.


    He exined that the treasure had vanished without a trace.


    He hoped that Deng Chun would move from the primeval forest to the vige or the town to live.


    As the saying goes, ¡°one day as a teacher, forever as a father¡±, he was willing to provide for Deng Chun in his old age.

 Chapter 436: 436 People Who Followed Liuli

    In the primitive forest filled with towering trees, Deng Chun chose arge ck locust tree, constructed a treehouse, and made his dwelling in the trees.


    After listening to Tong Sang disclose his purpose, he raised his hand to stroke his graying beard, then spoke, ¡°So the treasure is really gone?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s gone.¡± Tong Sang met his sharp gaze without flinching.


    ¡± What about the water drop pendant you wore?¡± Deng Chun¡¯s gaze fell on his neck.


    ¡°I gave it to Qiao Xiaomai yesterday.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Deng Chun frowned, ¡°You gave it away?¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s the girl I intend to cherish for my entire life.¡± Tong Sang dered.


    ¡°That belonged to your great-grandmother.¡± Deng Chun emphasized the words ¡®great-grandmother¡¯.


    ¡± When I was young and it was found, you and Grandfather both decided that I should keep it, which means it¡¯s mine, and I have the right to give it away, don¡¯t I?¡± Tong Sang exined calmly.


    Hearing this, Deng Chun¡¯s brow furrowed more tightly.


    Tong Sang silently met his gaze.<div>


    After a long while, Deng Chun¡¯s gaze shifted away, looking at the boundless sea of trees, ¡°You¡¯re right.¡±


    His voice was calm and measured, devoid of emotions.


    Tong Sang, after some thought, asked, ¡°Master, was the pendant actually my great-grandmother¡¯s?¡±


    Years ago, Tong Tiehu hadpared the pendant to an inventory and realized that nothing was missing from the treasury, hence he assumed the pendant belonged to Liuli.


    But with no conclusive evidence, and after asking Deng Chun, who imed not to know, he ended up casually pocketing the pendant.


    But judging by Deng Chun¡¯s reaction now, there seemed to be more to it¡­


    ¡°Yes, the pendant indeed belonged to your great-grandmother.¡± Deng Chun spoke up.


    Hearing this, Tong Sang was stunned.


    He had expected not to get an answer.


    Deng Chun continued, ¡°Your great-grandmother said that the pendant should be given to a person of destiny. You were the one who found it back then, so you kept it. Now that you have given it to Qiao Xiaomai, she is that person of destiny.¡±


    Tong Sang fell silent.


    Recallingst night¡¯s events, he was almost certain: this pendant was most likely Liuli¡¯s space.


    If it was just an ordinary pendant, his master would not react like this.


    After thinking a while, he asked, ¡°Master, how did my great-grandmother move all these treasures here in the first ce?¡±


    Deng Chun was a member of the Gu Family army, the youngest member of the assault team back then, only in his teens.@@novelbin@@


    If there was anyone in the world who understood Liuli the best, it was clearly his master, Deng Chun.


    ¡°You don¡¯t need to know.¡± Deng Chun replied.


    Tong Sang pressed his lips together, then said, ¡°But the disappearance of the treasure is too baffling.¡±<div>


    ¡°In one¡¯s lifetime, not everything can be understood.¡±


    Hearing this, Tong Sang sighed inwardly.


    Alright, it seemed Deng Chun was aware of Liuli¡¯s secret but was unwilling to disclose it.


    ¡°Master, would you be willing toe down the mountain?¡± He asked.<div>


    ¡°No need, I¡¯m quitefortable living here. When the dayes that I truly can¡¯t move around anymore, I¡¯ll join you down the mountain.¡± Deng Chun¡¯s gaze returned from the distance andnded on him, ¡°Didn¡¯t you say you wanted to go hunting? Go.¡±


    Tong Sang looked at him silently for a moment, then resignedly said, ¡°Then I¡¯m leaving, goodbye, Master.¡±


    After saying this, he jumped down from the tree, picked a direction, and went hunting.


    Deng Chun watched his retreating figure, a rare look of fatigue appearing on his face.


    He looked toward the east where the morning sun just broke the horizon and murmured, ¡°Mydy, the situation is out of control, the treasure¡­it¡¯s actually gone¡­Yang Wenxiao, who you had high hopes for, failed to revive the Aristocratic Families in fifty years.¡±


    ¡± When will I be able to follow you without any worries¡­I¡¯m getting old¡­¡±

 Chapter 437: 437: He cant eat the rabbit he himself hunted?

    Chapter 437: He can¡¯t eat the rabbit he himself hunted?


    Tong Sang held a long sword in his hand, wandering around the forest for an hour. When he emerged, his hemp rope wasden with a variety of game, big and small.


    Therge game included wild boars, wolves and deer, while the small game featured foxes, rabbits, and pheasants. In short, any game his eyes could see hadn¡¯t been missed by his long sword.


    He hoisted arge bundle of game and climbed up Rooster Mountain, where Qiao Xiaomai was waiting for him at the prearranged spot.


    Upon seeing the game he dragged along, she couldn¡¯t help giving him a thumbs-up, ¡°Impressive.¡±


    Tong Sang just smiled, his eyes shining brightly, ¡°See anything you like?¡± ¡°Nope, just haul all of it to town to sell. Come on, let¡¯s have breakfast.¡± The reason she had been waiting on the mountain was to bring him breakfast. After breakfast, the two of them went down the mountain. Tong Sang dragged his game back home, and Qiao Xiaomai also went home. They nned to head to town togetherter.


    When Tong Sang reached home, the Tong family was having breakfast.


    Tong Sang was somewhat surprised. It was almost the Si hour; they were having breakfast, quitete¡­


    Seeing him get home, Zhu Hongyun immediately stood up from the dining table, her eyes fixed on the game behind him, ¡°Oh third brother, you¡¯re so capable, bringing back so much game.¡±


    Tong Tiehu also looked over, ¡°Come and eat.¡±


    ¡°No need, I¡¯ve eaten. I¡¯m going to take this stuff to town to sell now,¡± Tong Sang said.<div>


    ¡°You already ate? What did you eat?¡± Zhang asked.


    ¡°A roasted hare.¡± Tong Sang didn¡¯t n on mentioning Qiao Xiaomai.


    As soon as he finished speaking, Zhu Hongyun eximed, ¡°Did you make your own stash of food? Sang, not to criticize you, but you know the situation our family is in now. We can¡¯t even afford white flour anymore. A hare could be exchanged for quite a few cooper coins.¡±


    ¡°He hunted the rabbit, doesn¡¯t he deserve to eat it?¡± TongTiehu¡¯s face darkened when he heard this.


    ¡°It¡¯s not that he can¡¯t eat it, but given the current situation of our family, we owe one hundred taels of silver for our ten acres ofnd.¡± Zhu Hongyun emphasized the immense number of one hundred taels.


    Meat was never scarce on the Tong family¡¯s dining table in the past.


    Even now, they hadn¡¯t finished eating the meat they bought a few days ago.


    But Zhu Hongyun, who had grown up in a poor family, cared a lot about food. Despite having been married into the Tong family for several years, this trait hadn¡¯t changed.


    Now there was meat on the table, but what aboutter?


    If there is rabbit meat, it should be either shared together or not eaten at all.


    Tong Tiehu couldn¡¯t be bothered to deal with her anymore, only telling Tong Sang, ¡°Lead out the ox cart and head to the town.¡±


    Tong Sang answered, put down the game, and went to the shed to fetch the ox.


    Seeing this, Zhang spoke up, ¡°Perhaps we should keep a couple of pheasants.¡± Although she was dissatisfied with Zhu Hongyun¡¯s nagging at Tong Sang, Zhu Hongyun¡¯s point wasn¡¯t wrong, given the family¡¯s current situation, they would soon no longer be able to afford meat.


    Hearing this, Tong Tiehu¡¯s expression turned somber, scanning over everyone present. ¡°Sang, after you sell your game, go to County Town to buy somend, as much as you can afford. Also, buy some sweet potato seedlings to bring back, we¡¯re nting sweet potatoes tomorrow.¡±


    Truth be told, he had felt guilty towards his family yesterday.


    But now, his mindset had changed.


    This morning, after feeding the livestock at the new home, he¡¯d returned to the old yard thinking breakfast would be ready only to find cold pots and pans.


    Qian said she had a headache and couldn¡¯t get out of bed.


    Zhang had gone to bedte the night before and was still sleeping, not awake at all.<div>


    Zhu Hongyun,ined of stomachache and had also not gotten out of bed.


    The wife of Tong Dng, Li Rou, was busy taking care of the child and had no free time.


    In short, of all the women in the family, none were able to go to the kitchen.@@novelbin@@


    <div>

 Chapter 470: 470: A Bunch of Fools

    Chapter 470: A Bunch of Fools


    ¡°Xiaomai, we will be waiting to buy your fruit by then.¡± Du Qing¡¯ai said.


    Qiao Xiaomai responded crisply, ¡°I promise I won¡¯t cheat my fellow vigers, everyone look forward to eating sweet fruit!¡±


    After sending these people away, Qiao Xiaomai carried their money basket into the house and then went into the kitchen to prepare dinner.


    After dinner, the day passed quickly.


    In the evening, Tong Sang came for a visit. Qiao Xiaomai told him about the University President Gu visiting their secret tunnel with his students, then they started to chat idly.


    Tong Sang went hunting in the mountains today and exchanged his spoils for twenty taels of silver, which he used to buy two acres ofnd.


    He was to continue nting sweet potatoes tomorrow.


    ¡°Wow, will they rebel if you keep tormenting them like this?¡± Qiao Xiaomai couldn¡¯t help but mention how miserable the Tong family members looked the day before.


    ¡°There¡¯s nothing we can do. Grandfather has made up his mind to torment them.¡± Tong Sang felt really helpless about this.


    Tong Tiehu could be stubborn, and also his simple and crude way of doing things had led to the Tong family¡¯s current predicament.<div>


    Qiao Xiaomai clicked her tongue a few times, silently lighting a candle in her heart for these people.


    Fools, all of them. Short-sighted as a mouse.


    With just the hunting skills of Tong Sang, the Tong family could return to their former glory in a heartbeat.


    So, if they could endure this difficult period, everyone could continue living a good life.


    And these idiots?


    They couldn¡¯t endure a single day of hardship.


    In order to protect their purses, they tried every trick in the book, and their methods were both stupid and ugly.


    Was it necessary?


    They could only see Tong Sang¡¯s hunting skills but failed to see the good life hidden behind these skills.


    Well, fortunately, Tong Sang didn¡¯t follow these people.


    ¡°I¡¯m going to deliver Sour Plum Soup to the Construction Team tomorrow, you cane with.¡± Qiao Xiaomai said.


    In the past, it was Egg Flower Soup, now it was Sour Plum Soup, both were cheap and effective ways of minor good deeds.


    ¡°We¡¯ll see.¡± Tong Sang didn¡¯t give a definite answer.


    Though he saw his family as foolish too, if these people were suffering under the scorching sun while he was enjoying, he couldn¡¯t get past that barrier in his heart.


    Forget about his two elder brothers, his grandparents and parents were all in real hardship!


    Qiao Xiaomai understood his thought process, rolled her eyes and didn¡¯t press further.


    The two chatted for a while, and when it waste at night, each went back to sleep.


    The next day, around midday, Qiao Xiaomai made two pots of Sour Plum Soup and sent it to the Construction Team. Tong Sang still hadn¡¯t emerged when she came back to the vige in an ox cart.


    What a foolish kid!<div>


    The day passed quickly, and in the evening, she, Qiao Changsun and Qiao Dami went to Qiao Dazhu¡¯s new house for the banquet.


    She had a good impression of Qiao Dazhu, so she brought a roll of brocade as a gift.


    When the three of them arrived, others were already there.


    Qiao Qinghe and Qiao Meipan, Zhao Shufen and Qiao Xiaobao, and the family of Qiao Changkang.<div>


    Seeing Zhao Shufen, Qiao Xiaomai did not feel awkward, she acted as if she didn¡¯t see her and greeted the others.


    Zhao Shufen and her son Qiao Xiaobao didn¡¯t speak, they just buried their heads and ate.


    Being a widow with a young son, their lives were tough. Now that they had a chance to enjoy a banquet, they naturally ate more.


    Because of this, they ended up even sharing a table with Qiao Changkang and his wife Wu Yinfeng.


    ¡°Grandfather, how have you been recently?¡± Qiao Xiaomai asked.


    ¡°I¡¯m fine.¡± Qiao Qinghe, who looked older than before, replied. All of their 30 acres were being worked by him alone, making him much thinner than before.


    ¡°Grandfather, do you want me to find someone to help you?¡± Qiao Xiaomai stared at his aged face for a few moments and sincerely offered.


    ¡°No need.¡± Qiao Qinghe shook his head.


    What¡¯s a bit of hardship to him?


    Qiao Changsun¡¯s family had been living like this for over ten years.


    A bit of hardship was good, it made him feel at ease.

 Chapter 439: 439: The Resentment Grows Stronger

    Chapter 439: The Resentment Grows Stronger


    Return to the maternal home, and break away from the family.


    Those five words, thrown out there, on top of that brutal statement that was like peeling off their clothes and stabbing straight into their hearts.


    The faces of the women present took a rather ghastly turn.


    Especially Mrs. Qian and Mrs. Zhang, who were justst night thinking that had they known this would happen, they wouldn¡¯t have married into the Tong family. As if Tong Tiehu was a mind reader, heid bare and rebuked these thoughts.


    Their faces kept alternating between green and white


    Could they find a better house to marry into than the Tong Family?


    The answer was oblique. They could not.@@novelbin@@


    Like other women, would they be content with getting married then incessantly caring for inws and busying with domestic chores and field work, working until they half-drop dead and at a young age morph into haggard and sallow women?


    They would not.


    So, if they could turn back time, they would¡­<div>


    Still choose the Tong family.


    Tong Tiehu was right. They all had a bulging purse, more private savings than other families could umte in a lifetime.


    But one¡¯s good days are in contrast to the past.


    They were now deprived of the lifestyle they had been ustomed to. This displeased them!


    They livedfortably these years, but also birthed children and raised them!


    They had jobs to do too, they were busy with chores!


    This brutal honesty was too much!


    Both Zhu Hongyun and Li Rou had grim expressions. They didn¡¯t hold the same regrets as Mrs. Qian and Mrs. Zhang, but resentment was growing in their hearts.


    The Tong family hadn¡¯t separated yet, but that was inevitable.


    The vinegar shop had always been managed by Tong Dalong and Li Rou, so they treated it as their private property.


    Even if a separation did ur, as the eldest grandson, the vinegar shop should end up as theirs.


    But now, the shop had been sealed, and they were forced back to the vige.


    This resentment was beyond words. They were the young ones, so they couldn¡¯t make a fuss, and all their feelings lingered inside them.


    Zhu Hongyun didn¡¯t manage the vinegar shop, but she always knew she and Tong Eng had a share in it.


    Moreover, since they were ipetent in most tasks, the products of the vinegar shop and the fields were their sole ie.


    Now, overnight, they had lost everything.


    Life was hollowed out. It felt like the sky was falling.


    Under such circumstances, wasn¡¯t it normal to lie in bed without moving?


    Wasn¡¯t it normal to argue over a rabbit?<div>


    Did they have to use such harsh words?


    Even Tong Dalong and Tong Eng were in low spirits.


    They were also bitter, loose in their discipline, and their wives had decided to strike. But they had never contemted a family separation.


    Tong Eng was inept at everything, if he was expected to support the household all by himself, he would unquestionably starve to death.<div>


    Tong Dalong was thinking his grandfather was the vige chief and his third brother knew martial arts. It would be best if their family sticked together like before.


    In short, this bunch, each harbouring their own thoughts, had their secrets and intentions exposed by Tong Tiehu. Their faces turned uglier, and the resentment within them increased.


    Tong Tiehu huffed heavily, ¡°If you want to separate, speak now. If you want to return to your maternal home, leave now. Otherwise, when Third Son buys back the fields, everyone will have to work!¡±


    Nobody made a sound.


    Everyone hung their heads.


    Seeing that, Tong Tiehu mmed the chopsticks on the table and stood up, ¡°I am giving you a day to think it over. If you ck off when it¡¯s time to work, don¡¯t me me for wielding a whip.¡±


    After he said that, he turned to Tong Sang, ¡°Sang, let¡¯s go to town.¡±


    Tong Sang simply nodded, led the ox out, tied it to the cart, and put all the game on it.


    Once Tong Tiehu was seated, he waved the whip and leisurely headed towards the vige entrance.


    At the edge of the vige, Qiao Xiaomai was waiting for him.

 Chapter 440: 440: How to Deal with this Treasure?

    Chapter 440: How to Deal with this Treasure?


    Qiao Xiaomai was standing alone at the entrance of Anping Vige, her hand holding up a bamboo umbre to shield her from the scorching sun.


    The umbre was given to her by Tong Sang. It was made of silk, and there was a wheat field painted on it.


    Giving an umbre, which is punningly known as ¡°sending off¡± in Chinese, ording to the superstitious tradition of the Chinese, is a gift quite inappropriate for couples to give each other.


    However, Qiao Xiaomai absolutely loved the wheat field he painted on it, so she epted it happily.


    She had even survived life-and-death situations, so what could a mere umbre do to her?


    All that matters is that she¡¯s happy!


    Now it was mid-morning, with the sun zing high in the sky. Vige inhabitants were either working in the fields or staying at home. Only she remained alone at the vige entrance.@@novelbin@@


    From afar, she saw Tong Sang driving an ox cart towards her, so she hurriedly waved and took out two boxes of ice cream from her space.


    This summer heat relief treasure, she had plenty stored in her space.


    As he came closer, she saw that Tong Tiehu was also there, so she quickly took out another box and eximed, ¡°Grandpa Tong!¡±<div>


    The ox cart stopped, Tong Tiehu watched Qiao Xiaomai hold up three boxes of ice cream, his wrinkled face bearing aplicated expression.


    This was the first time he had personally witnessed Qiao Xiaomai taking out things from nowhere.


    He truly and fully felt that this girl in front of him came from another world.


    ¡°Grandpa can¡¯t eat cold things due to his old age. You bring out something to eat. Grandpa didn¡¯t have a good meal just now.¡± Tong Sang epted the ice cream and motioned her to get on the ox cart.


    ¡°Just now?¡± Qiao Xiaomai climbed onto the cart, keenly seizing the keyword.


    Tong Sang grunted in the affirmative, ¡°Meal took too long to prepare. There was a strike.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai raised an eyebrow, understanding immediately. She turned to Tong Tiehu, ¡°Grandpa Tong, what would you like to eat?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t feel like eating anything.¡± Tong Tiehu shook his head.


    He was too full of anger to have an appetite.


    ¡°How about some porridge then?¡± Qiao Xiaomai took out a bowl of red dates and yam porridge and handed it to Tong Tiehu.


    The porridge was still steaming and fragrant. Tong Tiehu hesitated for a moment, then epted it.


    Seeing this, Qiao Xiaomai smiled, moved the umbre in her hand a bit towards Tong Tiehu, and said, ¡°Let¡¯s go, Brother San.¡±


    Tong Sang responded, waved the whip, and the ox cart began moving slowly.


    Due to Yang Wenxiao¡¯s influence, the current road had been upgraded to almost modern standards, and it was very smooth for the slow-moving ox cart.


    As Qiao Xiaomai opened the ice cream and began eating it with a spoon, she asked, ¡°Grandpa, how should we deal with the treasure in my space?¡±


    Treasure.


    At this single word, Tong Tiehu paused in drinking his porridge.


    ¡°Just leave it for now. We¡¯ll see how things go. Later, when you and Sang travel to other ces, he can secretly store this batch of treasure deep in the mountains and forests.¡±


    ¡°Travel?¡±<div>


    ¡°Go out and explore. You can¡¯t always stay in Anping Vige.¡± He used to take Tong Sang with him to Capital City from time to time, and not just to the Capital, but to other ces as well.


    ¡°Great!¡± Qiao Xiaomai liked this suggestion, and she crisply agreed.


    This batch of treasure for her was like a hot potato. She wouldn¡¯t touch a single cent of it. The sooner she could get rid of it, the better!


    However, thinking about the situation of the Tong Family, she looked at Tong Tiehu again, and asked, ¡°Grandpa Tong, do you want me to teach you a recipe that you can sell?¡±<div>


    Why are things getting so ugly?


    Because they are poor.


    Once the Tong Family¡¯s living conditions return to the way they were, the ugliness will naturally stop.


    As for the undercurrent hidden under the apparent harmony, just turn a blind eye as long as no one stirs it up.


    Sometimes it¡¯s better to be a bit muddled.


    An elderly person needs to have a broad mind.

 Chapter 473: 473: Comparisons are Odious

    Chapter 473: Comparisons are Odious


    ¡°My daughter, Yingying, is young, she can wait for another year. But if she grows older and your Tong Family miss out on her, it¡¯s not me spoiling things for you, your third son will really be unmarriageable.¡±


    ¡°Even if he can get married, the circumstances will definitely not measure up to those of my Yingying.¡±


    As these words came out, Zhu Hongyun¡¯s face visibly changed.


    Never to marry in his life?


    That¡¯s not possible, getting married is a must.


    But if he dys and even can¡¯t get a girl like Qiao Ying¡­


    Qiao Ying is already a burden, would he then have to marry a penniless girl?


    No way!


    She huffed, ¡± Isn¡¯t there still Qiao Xiaomai? Xiaomai is keen on marrying the third son.¡±


    Finally, the conversation hade to Xiaomai.<div>


    Zhu Cuiying took a breath in her heart and said sternly, ¡°My dear, you¡¯re wrong about that. While it¡¯s true that Xiaomai does interact more closely with the third son, she never said she intends to marry him. Now listen, dear, I used to say a lot of unpleasant things about Xiaomai, but the situation has changed.¡±


    ¡°Xiaomai has cooked for the Emperor Emeritus, she is well acquainted with two princes and they dine at her house every day, everyone in the vige knows how close their rtionship is. She can have any young master in the whole of Huai¡¯an County at her beck and call if she wishes!¡±


    At her words, Zhu Hongyun¡¯s face turned pale, ¡°Cut it out! Her? Choose anyone in Huai¡¯an County?¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s stopping her from picking anyone in Huai¡¯an County? Tell me why she can¡¯t?¡± Zhu Cuiying countered.


    Zhu Hongyun,¡±Isn¡¯t she just a country girl? she¡­.¡±


    She could not continue.


    She had seen the familiarity between Yang Ye, Yang Wang and Xiaomai, as close as she was chatting with Zhu Cuiying at the moment, without a trace of distance.


    Although she wasn¡¯t present to witness the tax collection day at the threshing field, she heard about it afterward. Yang Ye vowed to protect Xiaomai and Yang Wang showed an extraordinary concern for her.


    She had also seen Xiaomai¡¯s interactions with the Emperor Emeritus.


    The Dean of the Grain Institute was happy to see Xiaomai.


    Even the Eunuch next to the Emperor Emeritus was amicable towards Xiaomai.


    And the county magistrate, who upon seeing Xiaomai, his face bloomed like a chrysanthemum flower.


    The Emperor Emeritus, the two princes, the Dean, and the County Magistrate.


    Each one more prestigious thanst, yet somehow, Xiaomai is well-liked by all of them.


    Is there anyone in the entire Huai¡¯an County more honourable than these people?


    If there isn¡¯t, then why can¡¯t Xiaomai choose anyone in Huai¡¯an County?


    At this moment, Zhu Cuiying added, ¡°Ah, not only does Xiaomai have connections with influential people, but she also knows how to make money.¡±


    ¡°In just a few months after her mother¡¯s departure, she alone has umted a considerable amount of wealth. Five hundred acres ofnd, more than your family¡¯s estate. Just selling vegetable recipes alone brought her an incredible amount of silver.¡±


    ¡°Tell me, how many girls have you seen who can make this much money?¡±<div>


    Zhu Hongyun ¡°¡­¡±


    Before meeting Xiaomai, she had never even heard of such a story.


    Seeing her silence, Zhu Cuiying pressed on, ¡°Tell me, we farmers make money through toiling tirelessly in the fields just to get by. But for her, cooking a meal brings in heaps of silver. Ah,paring people to people, it¡¯s almost unbearable!¡±


    Zhu Hongyun ¡°¡­¡±<div>


    Thinking of her own ordeal growing sweet potatoes, she couldn¡¯t help but grit her teeth.


    Comparing oneself to others certainly can be frustrating!

 Chapter 442: 442: Planting Sweet Potatoes in the Field

    Chapter 442: nting Sweet Potatoes in the Field


    With the County Chief there, thend purchase went smoothly.


    Previously, all of the Tong Family¡¯snd was nted with crops. Tong Tiehu didn¡¯t want those plots. Instead, he deliberately chose desertednd that hadn¡¯t been cultivated. These two acres ofnd were far from Anping Vige, but fairly close to the three hills of Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s.


    After obtaining the ownership certificate and purchasing a cartload of sweet potato sprouts, the three of them returned to Anping Vige.


    Upon reaching the vige entrance, Qiao Xiaomai got off the carriage and went home, while Tong Sang and Tong Tiehu went back to the Tong Family residence.


    By now, it was already dusk, and smoke had risen from the stoves in many households. Dinner was also ready at the Tong Family¡¯s house when the grandfather and grandson returned home.


    At the dinner table, Tong Tiehu took out thend deeds and announced the next day¡¯s work: nting sweet potatoes.


    They would nt both acres in one day, with the entire family participating.


    It was already summer, and other families had nted their sweet potatoes a month earlier. Therefore, they had to hurry with this task, or the sweet potatoes they harvested in the fall would be sub-par.


    The Tong Family members listened silently, and no one uttered a word.


    It was considered uneptable to go back to their maternal family¡¯s house.<div>


    Life at their maternal family¡¯s house was even harder than at the Tong Family¡¯s. If they feel that life at the Tong Family¡¯s is already tough, it will only get tougher when they return to their maternal family.


    Break away from the family.


    Neither Tong Dng nor Tong Eng had the courage to do this. They were both still young and didn¡¯t have the courage to shoulder the burden of feeding and clothing a family on their own.


    Bear with it!


    With this thought in mind, no moreints were raised, and the family silently ate dinner and retreated to their rooms to rest.


    The next morning, before dawn, Tong Xingda woke Zhang Shi to prepare breakfast. Zhang Shi got her two daughters-inw up, and by the time the entire family had eaten, dawn was just breaking.


    The Tong Family had two ox carts. One was used for domestic purposes and the other was used at the vinegar shop. Now that the vinegar shop was gone, both ox carts were kept at home.


    They drove the oxcart and walked for about fifteen minutes until the family reached the two-acre plot ofnd.


    Thend was overgrown with weeds, which needed to be removed first.


    With tools like small shovels and hoes, everyone, except the two small children from the Tong Dng family, was mobilized for the task.


    Removing weeds from fallownd is not heavy work for rural families.


    Typically, children do this sort of task. When Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s family first got the donkey cart, Qiao Xiaomai and Qiao Dami were the ones dealing with the weeds.


    But the Tong Family members are not typical rural folks. They are privileged rural folks.


    In the past, they had many fields, all of which were worked by hired hands; they only had to supervise.


    It had been many years since theyst did hands-on work.


    Therefore, it didn¡¯t take long before all the women were panting, with sore backs and aching legs. The sun overhead was scorchingly hot, and they were sweating and thirsty.


    Zhu Hongyun stood up and ran to the ox cart. She picked up a porcin bowl and filled it with water from a ceramic pot, gulping it down.


    Even after a bowl of water, her dryness did not diminish. Wiping the sweat from her forehead, she couldn¡¯t help but think of the sour plum soup that Qiao Xiaomai had brought over previously.


    Qiao Xiaomai had given them sour plum soup more than once, arge ceramic pot full of it each time, which would be finished on the same day by their family.<div>


    Sour and sweet, it surely would be perfect to drink at this moment.


    With this thought, she couldn¡¯t help but look at Tong Sang.


    Tong Sang was holding a hoe, removing the weeds from the ground at a rapid pace. While others had only cleared a small area, he had almost reached the other end of the field. In a short while, he had cleared as much area as the rest of thembined.


    She walked over to Tong Sang and said, ¡°Sang, I don¡¯t think there¡¯s enough water in the pot for us to drink all morning. How about you take the oxcart back for a trip?¡±@@novelbin@@<div>

 Chapter 443: 443: Have Xiaomai Deliver a Pot of Sour Plum Soup

    Chapter 443: Have Xiaomai Deliver a Pot of Sour Plum Soup


    Upon hearing this, Tong Sang turned his gaze to the two pottery jars over a foot tall on the ox cart, saying, ¡°Let¡¯s talk about it after we finish drinking.¡±


    ¡°It will be toote once we¡¯re done drinking. What about your niece and nephew?¡± Zhu Hongyun said, pointing to the two children beside Li Rou.


    Just then, Li Rou got up and walked towards the ox cart to get water for the children.


    Seeing this, Tong Sang hesitated.


    Zhu Hongyun quickly added, ¡°Children can¡¯t stand being thirsty, you should take a trip back home.¡±


    Tong Sang grunted in affirmation, thrust his spade into the ground, and started walking towards the ox cart.


    Greatly pleased, Zhu Hongyun said, ¡°Since you¡¯re going back, why not make a trip to the Qiao Family? Qiao Xiaomai makes delicious Sour Plum Soup, you can ask her to make a pot.¡±


    This presumptuous tone made Tong Sang pause. He looked at Zhu Hongyun, ¡°She¡¯s also quite busy. She doesn¡¯t have any free time.¡±


    ¡°Hasn¡¯t she sent us soup many times before? One more time won¡¯t matter.¡±


    ¡°If she wants to send it, that¡¯s her choice. It¡¯s absolutely ridiculous for us to actively ask for it. Howe my sister-inw never visits her maternal home and asks them to send us some?¡± Tong Sang replied coldly.<div>


    Their house is quite nearby Zhu Hongyun¡¯s maternal home.


    Upon hearing this, Zhu Hongyun eximed, ¡°The people at my maternal home don¡¯t know how to make Sour Plum Soup.¡±


    Tong Sang nced at her stoically, turned his back, picked up his spade again, and continued weeding.


    Seeing this, Zhu Hongyun softened her tone, ¡°Alright, alright, we can pay for it, right? It¡¯s not like we are asking for a free service. Didn¡¯t you just sell the game you hunted yesterday? A pot of Sour Plum Soup doesn¡¯t cost much, you should buy it.¡±


    ¡°Just look at the scorching sun, your grandparents are also getting on in years, it will be good for them to have some Sour Plum Soup to cool off.¡±


    This time she didn¡¯t only appeal using the children, she even brought up Tong Tiehu and Qian¡¯s family.@@novelbin@@


    Tong Sang lowered his head, continued his work, and ignored her.


    ¡°What¡¯s the matter? You saved a lot of silver, and you just sold your game yesterday. Are you unwilling to buy a pot of Sour Plum Soup for our family?¡±


    ¡°If you want to drink it, let my second brother figure out a way.¡± Tong Sang quickened his pace.


    ¡°It¡¯s not just me who wants to drink it, think about our whole family.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Tong Sang looked up at the other members of the Tong family and, carrying his spade, walked towards them.


    Seeing this, Zhu Hongyun stamped her foot and quickly followed him. ¡°Wait a minute, I¡¯m your sister-inw, is this how you treat me?¡±


    Tong Sang slightly knitted his brows, lightly inhaling before tapping his toes on the ground. His body lifted into the air.


    He gracefullynded next to TongTiehu, ¡°Grandfather, my Sister-inw insists on me going to Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s house to buy Sour Plum Soup.¡±


    Tong Tiehu was also holding a spade. He looked up at Zhu Hongyun, who was walking toward him, took off the straw hat he was wearing, and used it as a fan to relieve the heat. ¡°When did Miss Xiaomai start running a restaurant at her home?¡±


    Tong Eng was right beside Tong Tiehu and although he was young and strong, he could not match Tong Tiehu¡¯s work speed. Hearing this, he quickly said, ¡°Sour Plum Soup? That¡¯s a great idea. This is the perfect time to drink some.¡±


    ¡°Little brother, aren¡¯t you and Miss Xiaomai close? Go and ask her.¡±


    ¡°Exactly, Qiao Xiaomai must want to marry Sang, otherwise why would she have sent soup so many times before?¡± Zhu Hongyun had reached them by then and picked up the conversation.


    ¡°That¡¯s excellent. Since they are going to be family sooner orter, why bother buying anything? It¡¯s her responsibility to make Sour Plum Soup for us.¡± Tong Eng said.<div>


    ¡°Yes, she is the youngest and hasn¡¯t gotten married yet. Consider it as her trying to please our entire family.¡± Zhu Hongyun added.

 Chapter 444: 444: All you know is to eat, Ill beat you to death!

    Chapter 444: All you know is to eat, I¡¯ll beat you to death!


    Suck up?


    Upon hearing these words, Tong Tiehu couldn¡¯t hold back a coldugh. ¡°Who do you think you are that she would need to curry favor with you?¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s someone who has prestige in front of the retired Emperor, and she¡¯s on good terms with two princes. She needs to suck up to you? Just how big do you think your faces are?¡±


    This naked statement was a straight, direct p.


    Tong Erng flushed, ¡°So what if she has prestige? She still sends sour plum soup as always. Our family has no rtion with her, but she keeps sending the soup, isn¡¯t it just because she wants to please us in hopes of marrying into our family?¡±


    ¡°Stop fooling yourself. That¡¯s her way of showing gratitude for the numerous times I¡¯ve helped her.¡± Tong Tiehu snorted coldly.


    ¡°Marry? Do you even know the current state of our household? She¡¯d rather put up with us withoutint than marry in.¡±


    ¡°Dad, you can¡¯t put it that way.¡± Tong Xingda, who was silently cutting grass at the side, spoke up. ¡°It¡¯s wrong for Lao¡¯er¡¯s family to demand things from Xiaomai. However, you shouldn¡¯t belittle us either.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re the vige chief, she¡¯s just a vige girl no matter how much favor she has.¡±


    ¡°Shut up,¡± red Tong Tiehu. ¡°Everyone, get back to work. If we don¡¯t finish nting the sweet potatoes today, no one goes home tonight!¡±<div>


    ¡°Grandpa, I¡¯m thirst. I want to drink some sour plum soup,¡± whined Tong Erng, his face all scrunched up.


    ncing over with a gloomy face, Tong Tiehu picked up his hoe and swung it at Tong Erng. ¡°Drink, drink, drink ¨C you want to drink, earn it yourself! How long have you been in this world, and have you ever made a penny? Am I supposed to just keep feeding you parasites?!¡±


    ¡°Other children can cook and do housework at a very young age. You¡¯re in your twenties and you can¡¯t do anything. Seems like you¡¯re just asking for a beating!¡±


    Tong Tiehu struck fast and fierce, catching Tong Erngpletely off guard as the back of the hoe smacked his back.


    With a yell, he scrambled to run away. ¡°Grandpa, was that really necessary?!¡±


    ¡°Sang, hold him down!¡±manded TongTiehu coldly.


    Hearing themand, Tong Sang dropped his hoe and promptly seized Tong Erng.@@novelbin@@


    With Tong Erng¡¯s hands twisted behind his back, Tong Tiehu wielded the hoe like a stick, striking at Tong Erng¡¯s knees.


    At the jolt of pain, Tong Erng immediately fell to his knees. Tong Tiehu wielded the hoe like a club, repeatedlynding strikes on him. ¡°You brat, the only thing you know is to eat! Can you do anything other than that?!¡±


    ¡°I can still work for a few more years. When I¡¯m old, I¡¯ll be relying on you to take care of me! But looking at you now, you can¡¯t even take care of yourself!¡±


    Tong Erng had never been punished like this in his life.


    The hoe struck him again and again. The pain was intense, but he dared not move in case the hoe cut him somewhere and drew blood.


    He could only yell out, ¡°Dad, dad! Mom, please, plead with grandpa! It hurts so bad!¡±


    Tong Xingda squatted to one side, a frown on his face as he watched the scene in silence.


    He used to dream of bing an emperor, who wouldn¡¯t need to worry about being taken care of in his old age.


    But now, the Tongs were just an ordinary family, and he had to think about this problem.


    He could take care of Tong Tiehu when he got old, but what about when he himself got old?


    Could they rely on Tong Erng?


    This second son of his was less capable than other families¡¯ seven- or eight- year-old children.<div>


    Yes, it was time to discipline him.


    Sparing the rod spoils the child.


    Tong Xingda remained silent, but from the Zhang family, a woman stood up to intervene. ¡°Dad, Erng is still a child! You could just scold him. Does your anger have to be this severe?! He makes a valid point!¡±


    <div>

 Chapter 445: 445 Overstepping Boundaries, Deserving a Beating!

    Chapter 445: Overstepping Boundaries, Deserving a Beating!


    Zhang Family had just heard the ins and outs of the matter, and she didn¡¯t think that Zhu Hongyun and Tong Erng were wrong.


    Anyone who¡¯s not blind can see that Qiao Xiaomai wants to marry Tong Sanng.


    If that¡¯s the case, why it would be wrong for her to make some Sour Plum Soup and send it over?


    Can you marry the one you love without putting in some effort?


    ¡°Makes sense? What kind of twisted logic is that? Xingda!¡± Tong Tiehu red at Tong Xingda.


    Tong Xingda immediately red back at Zhang Family, ¡°You damn woman, get lost! Why should a pure and innocent girl like Xiaomai serve you?!¡±


    ¡°Because she wants to marry Sanng and because I¡¯m San Tang¡¯s mother!¡±


    ¡°Then wait till she marries into the family! Right now, she has nothing to do with Sanng!¡± Tong Xingda stood up when Zhang Family started arguing with him hands on hips, ¡°You stinking woman, have you grown bold?!¡±


    ¡°For all these years that you¡¯ve been married into the Tong Family, when have we done you wrong? You¡¯re looking to take a mile when we give an inch? Seems like your skin¡¯s itching!¡±


    To be honest, in the beginning, Tong Tiehu and Tong Xingda did feel guilty about the usations from the family.<div>


    But this guilt wasn¡¯t deep at all.


    Because none of these people were penniless, or in such dire straits that they had to sell their homes and themselves.


    Therefore, when these people startedining, their shallow guilt dissipated quickly.


    Once guilt was gone, it would be easier to raise their hands.


    These people, these dissatisfied people.


    They had be ustomed to the good life, so now when times got a little tough, they became confrontational.


    He had lost his emperor, yet he said nothing, and these people, they acted as if the sky is falling, who are they trying to impress with this?


    Was his loss really the greatest?


    No, it wasn¡¯t!


    Zhang Family didn¡¯t expect Tong Xingda to hit her and she screamed out, ¡°Head of the family, what did I say wrong?!¡±


    ¡°Everything you said was wrong! If you feel the Tong Family owes you something, go back to your mother¡¯s house!¡± Tong Xingda stormed towards Zhang Family.


    Seeing that Tong Xingda was serious, Zhang Family stomped her feet, and began to run.


    Though she was worried about Tong Erng, she was also about to be physically punished, so she had better hide first.


    Therefore, this little piece ofnd became lively.


    Tong Xingda chased after Zhang Family to hit her, and Tong Erng was pinned to the ground, getting beaten with a hoe.@@novelbin@@


    Tong Sanng listened to the pandemonium, and his lips tightened.


    In his current family situation, even if Qiao Xiaomai dared to marry him, he wouldn¡¯t dare to take her.


    Filial piety prevented her from confronting Zhang Family openly.


    Having gone through so much to sever the ties with Sun Family and escape the pressure of filial piety, he couldn¡¯t drag her back into this kind of vortex.<div>


    Qiao Xiaomai didn¡¯t know about the chaos happening at the Tong¡¯s house, she was staring at a man and woman at her doorstep, her brows furrowed.


    The man was in his twenties, ordinary-looking, but the look he gave her was joyful.


    Qiao Xiaomai knew him ¨C this was her master¡¯s uncle, Zhuang Liihe¡¯s half-brother, Zhuang Jia.


    The woman looked to be in her forties or fifties, also ordinary-looking. Her face, like tree bark, showed traces of time, her face was full of wrinkles.<div>


    Right now, the woman was examining Qiao Xiaomai from head to toe with a skeptical and picky gaze.


    Qiao Xiaomai also recognized her, she was Zhuang Liihe¡¯s stepmother, Hua Xiaofeng.


    Before Zhuang Liihe got married, Hua Xiaofeng made every effort to use Zhuang Liihe like a work horse. However, when Zhuang Liihe was almost forced to marry Qiao Chang¡¯an, she rushed to Anping Vige to have a big fight with Sun Family, which finally allowed Zhuang Liihe to marry Qiao Changshun.


    This was a formidable character who could go toe to toe with Sun Family and not fall behind.

 Chapter 478: Proposing to the Qiao Family

    Chapter 478: Proposing to the Qiao Family


    Zhu Hongyun rolled over irritably again, grabbing the pillow harshly and wrestling with it. Just because someone was good with their hands, could they wield so much power? Why couldn¡¯t she, Hongyun, cook?


    Tong Eng was sitting at her bedside, using arge palm fan to create breezes for both of them. Seeing Zhu Hongyun in this state, he asked in a soft voice, ¡°Xiaoyun, what¡¯s wrong?¡±


    ¡°Nothing.¡± Zhu Hongyun replied sullenly.


    ¡°Don¡¯t lie face down, you will hurt your face.¡± Tong Eng said consolingly.


    The other day, Tong Xingda had pped her face until it swelled, and the swelling had not yetpletely subsided.


    Upon hearing this, Zhu Hongyun sat up angrily and pinched Tong Eng fiercely several times.


    How despicable, a father-inw actually hitting his own daughter-inw.


    Who else could do such a thing?


    With elders like Tong Tiehu and Tong Xingda, she was really unlucky!


    Tong Eng gasped as he was pinched, but he stillforted Zhu Hongyun with his good temperament, ¡°Don¡¯t be angry. I¡¯ll help you do more work tomorrow.¡±


    Although he was tired as a dog, he felt sorry when he saw Zhu Hongyun tired.


    Zhu Hongyun hummed and went back to bed, her mind once again returning to the matters of Qiao Xiaomai.


    What Zhu Cuiying said was not unreasonable. Their days of dominating Anping Vige were over. Now there was a new top figure in Anping Vige: Qiao Xiaomai.


    With five hundred acres ofnd, people came to work at her ce every day, and she even had good rtions with the gentry in town.


    Purchasing a courtyard in town was as simple as lifting a finger for her.


    And now she even had two maids.


    Damn it, using her cousin as a maid and still getting praised by others, life is so unfair!


    Zhu Hongyun fumed silently, but had no real solution.


    Under these circumstances, what should she do?


    Under these circumstances, she could only resign herself to fate.


    Another day went by, and the next was another toiling day nting sweet potatoes.


    They had already nted twice before, so these people were getting some experience.


    However, having experience and being willing to work were two different things.


    Having be ustomed to an easy life, they had yet to adjust to toiling in the fields.


    At noon, it was Zhang Family¡¯s turn to cook. When they were bringing lunch to the field, they bumped into a team transporting building materials.


    The team was going the same way as they were, which raised their suspicions. Why would anyone be bringing so much stuff to the wilderness?


    This doubt was casually mentioned during mealtime, and then they got the answer from Tong Tiehu: Qiao Xiaomai was building a manor.


    A manor.


    To the farmers, this was nomon term.


    Tong Tiehu casually said as he had his noodles, ¡°Don¡¯t be jealous. It¡¯s not your fault youck ambition.¡±


    ¡°Rather than missing the good old days, it¡¯s better to put more effort into the present. If you want to livefortably, you need to earn it yourself. There¡¯s no other way.¡±


    Everyone who heard this felt a pang in their heart.


    Who among themon people had Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s skills?


    It was not their fault that they were useless.


    After being chastised, everyone felt even more disheartened to work.


    The Tong Family was going downhill while the poorest family in the vige was now flourishing.


    The contrast was too stark.


    After a day of hard work, it was a day of rest again. Tong Sang went hunting while everyone else stayed at home doing nothing.


    Vinegar couldn¡¯t be made in a day, so during this time, everyone just idled around.


    Zhu Hongyun sneaked into Zhang Family¡¯s room and started to whisper.


    ¡°Mom, perhaps¡­we should propose a marriage with the Qiao Family?¡±


    Reclining listlessly on her bed, Zhang Family nced at her, ¡°You want me to bring the apple of your grandfather¡¯s eye home so she can cause my downfall?¡±


    That day, when she had gone to Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s house for food, she banked on the fact that Qiao Xiaomai wanted to marry Tong Sang.


    But what happened afterward?


    Although she managed to get the meal, the swelling on her face hadn¡¯t fully subsided yet.


    She tried to assert her authority in front of Qiao Xiaomai only to be shot down by Tong Tiehu. She was not a masochist; she didn¡¯t need a daughter-inw like that.

 Chapter 447: 447 - I will avenge your mother!

    Chapter 447: ¨C I will avenge your mother!


    The girl who stays beside the retired Emperor is beautiful and so naturally, many people were curious about her.


    So, information about Qiao Xiaomai was sought.


    Before this, she, along with Bai Zhi, and Chef Niu, had two culinarypetitions at Bailu Academy, and everyone at the Academy knew her.


    The students from Bailu Academy went back home and were talking to the old servants about her, leading Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s name to spread even further.


    Now she has appeared besides the retired Emperor and became his Royal Chef, which has made her even more famous.


    When the word about Qiao Xiaomai got around, it ultimately reached the ears of Hua Xiaofeng and Zhuang Jia, who hurriedly borrowed a donkey cart toe over.


    ¡°I was wondering why you didn¡¯te on Tomb-Sweeping Festival, and thought something had happened. But your aunt was about to give birth and everyone at home was busy, so we didn¡¯te¡±, Hua Xiaofeng took a sip of the sour plum soup and her eyes lit up.


    ¡°Your culinary skills are much better than your mother¡¯s, no wonder you can cook for the retired Emperor!¡±


    ¡± What happened to your mother?¡± asked Zhuang Jia, picking up his bowl, and his face became serious.


    Although Zhuang Liihe is ten years older than him and was not born of the same mother, Hua Xiaofeng didn¡¯t treat Zhuang Liihe well. However, Zhuang Liihe has always been very caring towards her younger brother.<div>


    Zhuang Liihe was good at cooking, even when the family was poor, she always tried hard to cook delicious meals for him.@@novelbin@@


    Ah, and he became a food lover because of her.


    With a sigh, he thought about the rumors and asked, ¡°Xiaomai, is it true that your mother ran off with that guy?¡±


    Hearing this, Hua Xiaofeng put down her bowl and sneered, ¡°Wasn¡¯t she forced by that old witch, Madam Sun?¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai nodded, ¡°Yes, my mother didn¡¯t want to marry me off to the dim-witted son of the Jiang Family, nor did she want Madam Sun to sell me to a brothel. She had no other choice but to leave.¡±


    ¡°Coward!¡± Hua Xiaofeng mmed the table in rage, ¡°How could she allow herself to be bullied by that old hag! Let¡¯s go, let¡¯s find her!¡±


    As she said this, she suddenly stood up, rolled up her sleeves, looking as if she can¡¯t wait to strangle Madam Sun.


    Seeing this, Qiao Xiaomai was surprised.


    Apart from a big fight that happened many years ago, before she was born, she has no memory of anything else.


    In the little memory she has, Hua Xiaofeng only visited a few times and every time she came, she was always picking on things.


    When they visited Zhuang Family¡¯s vige, she was always unsatisfied with Xiaomai¡¯s family.


    But whether it was righteousness or dissatisfaction, Hua Xiaofeng was always verbal but never resort to violence.


    So, Xiaomai was surprised this time.


    When she finally came back to her senses, she hurriedly said, ¡°Grandma, sit down. I¡¯ve cut ties with Madam Sun, and also, the Vige Chief has driven her out of the vige. She¡¯s living far away on her field, let¡¯s not go there.¡±


    ¡± What of cutting ties? What of being driven out? She drove your mother away, should we let this go? She is your mother, your biological mother!¡± Hua Xiaofeng put her hands on her waist and shouted.


    Zhuang Jia nodded in agreement, ¡°That¡¯s correct, Xiaomai, tell your grandmother how Madam Sun treated your mother. When we heard your mother had left, your grandmother and I already knew it must have been Madam Sun causing trouble.¡±


    ¡°We came here today, one to check on your family and second to take revenge for your mother.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t be scared, your grandmother can beat that stubborn old woman, Madam Sun!¡±


    Hua Xiaofeng lost her husband when she was young. As a widow taking care of two children, she would have been bullied to death long ago had she not been tough.<div>


    Her toughness and fierceness were not superficial like Madam Sun¡¯s, whether it was fighting or arguing, she always put everything at stake.


    With this kind of attitude, she never lost a fight.

 Chapter 480: 480 Our Family Cant Marry into a Higher Social Status

    Chapter 480: Our Family Can¡¯t Marry into a Higher Social Status


    ¡°She doesn¡¯t like her?!¡± Zhang Family¡¯s eyes widened, astonished.


    ¡°Mm, she doesn¡¯t.¡± Tong Sang nodded, picked up the book again and started reading. His tone was indifferent.


    Seeing this, Zhang Family snatched the book from his hands, ¡°If you don¡¯t like her, why do you help her so diligently?¡±


    ¡°Grandpa is the Vige Chief. It¡¯s my duty to assist if Grandpa orders me to.¡± Tong Sang looked at Zhang Family after his book was taken away. His expression and tone were indifferent.


    ¡°During those times you assisted her, why did you embrace her?! Howe I never see you embrace other girls?¡± Zhang Family questioned further.


    ¡°Because the situation was critical just then, hence I embraced her.¡±


    ¡°Because of her, you revealed your lightness skill! I had no idea you had it!¡± Zhang Family felt somewhat angry recalling this.


    She had only known that Tong Sang had picked up a book of Martial Arts secret techniques, and would asionally practice in the Courtyard.


    Who would have known that his kung fu was so good!


    ¡°The situation was critical.¡± Facing his mother¡¯s questioning, Tong Sang still gave the same response.<div>


    ¡°For her you even fought with General Cen, now you are telling me you don¡¯t like her?!¡± Zhang Family was genuinely getting angry.


    ¡°I can¡¯t just stand by and watch her die. The situation was critical.¡± Tong Sang¡¯s answer still were these four words.


    Zhang Family was annoyed, ¡°Are you going to marry her or not!¡±


    ¡°No.¡± Tong Sang answered simply and efficiently.


    Zhang Family pped the table in frustration, ¡°Aren¡¯t you aware that Zhu Cuiying came here to propose marriage for her daughter, Qiao Ying?! If you don¡¯t marry Qiao Xiaomai, then, you can only marry Qiao Ying!¡±


    ¡°I won¡¯t marry anyone.¡±


    ¡°Are you nning to stay a bachelor forever?¡±


    ¡°Will discuss that when I meet the right person.¡±


    ¡°From what I see, Qiao Xiaomai is an excellent choice!¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s the worst fit. What type can¡¯t she find now? Our family and her family are worlds apart.¡±


    ¡°How are they worlds apart?! I can tell she wants to marry you! If not why would she send over so much food?!¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s to show gratitude to Grandpa, it has nothing to do with me.¡±


    ¡°You!¡± Zhang Family was fuming, panting in exasperation.


    Tong Sang quietly met her gaze, his handsome face calm.


    After some time, Zhang Family pped the table, ¡°A marriage depends on the word of the parents, the matchmaker, and the couple, you have no say in it!¡±


    ¡°Grandpa is the head of the house, mom. It¡¯s better if you have this discussion with Granddad.¡±


    ¡°Hmph! That girl is your grandpa¡¯s precious darling. I¡¯m sure he will agree once I suggest it. Just brace yourself for the wedding!¡± With that, Zhang Family angrily stormed off.


    Tong Sang mildly picked up the book again, and continued his studies.


    Because he treats Qiao Xiaomai as his precious darling, that¡¯s precisely why he doesn¡¯t wish for her to marry into their family!<div>


    Tong Tiehu was at the new house and not at home, Zhang Family braved the zing sun to find him.


    When she arrived, Tong Tiehu was slicing green grass with a cutting knife, while Qiao Zhaodi and Qiao Yindi were helping him on the side.


    After Qiao Zhaodi and Qiao Yindi finish their daily chores at Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s home, they were free. It was mid-afternoon, this was their free time.


    Zhang Family entered the Courtyard, without even ncing at the sisters, she said to Tong Tiehu, ¡°Dad, Sang is not young anymore, it¡¯s time for him to get married, do you have any ns?¡±<div>


    At her words, Tong Tiehu stopped his work, ¡°Let¡¯s discuss it after Sang passes the local examination.¡±


    ¡°Passing the local examination doesn¡¯t dy the marriage.¡±


    ¡°Do you have someone in mind?¡± Tong Tiehu wiped the sweat off his cheeks with the handkerchief around his neck.


    ¡°I think Qiao Xiaomai would be a good choice.¡±


    ¡°We are not worthy of her,¡± Tong Tiehu tly refused.

 Chapter 449: 449 I Will Definitely Find My Mother Back

    Chapter 449: I Will Definitely Find My Mother Back


    Qiao Xiaomai ¡°¡­¡±


    She fell silent for a moment, ¡°I¡¯m a vige girl, how could I possibly have a good rtionship with a prince? Granny, don¡¯t listen to nonsense from outsiders.¡±


    How strange.


    Hua Xiaofeng doesn¡¯t have a favorable opinion of Zhuang Luhe, always turning up her nose and giving contemptuous looks. In the past she seemed to despise Zhuang Luhe to the point of wishing to make her work like an ox.@@novelbin@@


    Now, however, she appeared to bepletely in favor of Zhuang Luhe.


    ¡°Ah, Xiaomai,¡± Zhuang Jia seemed to have noticed her confusion. He picked up the bowl, took a sip of Sour Plum Soup to moisten his throat, and then spoke, ¡°Your mother is a Zhuang by birth, so of course your grandmother would take her side.¡±


    Hua Xiaofeng nodded vigorously, ¡°Exactly!¡±


    ¡°Moreover, now that you¡¯ve be skilled and capable, your grandmother is worried that you might¡­¡±


    Before he could finish, Hua Xiaofeng mmed the table fiercely and yelled at him, ¡°Shut up! Go drink your sour plum soup!¡±


    Zhuang Jia shut his mouth, smiled at Qiao Xiaomai, picked up the bowl, and continued drinking his Sour Plum Soup.<div>


    He didn¡¯t finish his sentence, but Qiao Xiaomai understood.


    Zhuang Luhe was the link between the Zhuang and Qiao families. Now that the Qiao family hade into wealth, but the link ¨C Zhuang Luhe ¨C was missing, that¡¯s why Hua Xiaofeng was in a hurry to find Zhuang Luhe.


    Though Hua Xiaofeng appeared to be furious now, she was probably actually intimidated on the inside.


    The wealthy one was her now, so Hua Xiaofeng had to curry favor with her.


    Once she understood this, Qiao Xiaomai didn¡¯t say anything. She said, ¡°Granny, about finding my mother, I¡¯ll definitely handle it. You don¡¯t need to worry.¡±


    ¡°Handle? How? The emeritus emperor and the prince are already gone!¡± Hua Xiaofeng questioned.


    ¡°You don¡¯t need to worry about that. I¡¯ll definitely bring my mother back,¡± Xiaomai said.


    If they had been poor before, it would have been understandable not to look for Zhuang Luhe.


    But now that her family had a rtionship with the emeritus emperor, if she didn¡¯t go to find Zhuang Luhe at this point, that would be strange.


    Although she could have used hatred for Zhuang Luhe as an excuse for hiding it, many people understood Luhe¡¯s difficulties. Even if they hated her, they should still bring her back.


    So, she should find her!


    ¡°Then you¡¯ll be in charge of this. Your mother didn¡¯t have an easy life either.¡± Seeing that Qiao Xiaomai said this, Hua Xiaofeng didn¡¯t persist.


    ¡°Tell me what happened to your family? How did you be so skilled suddenly? And you even established a rtionship with the emeritus emperor.¡± Hua Xiaofeng asked curiously.


    ¡°My craftsmanship was always not bad. After my mother left, I had no choice but to shoulder the responsibility of my family. Practice after practice, my craftsmanship improved.¡± Xiaomai said, ¡°It was due to stress. At that time, I was either considering selling my house or selling myself. My hair was falling out in bunches from worrying.¡±


    ¡°The more pressure I was under, the faster my thoughts raced, and then I came up with new delicious dishes. I exchanged these dishes for silver.¡±


    ¡°My home¡­ slowly got back on its feet.¡±


    After Xiaomai finished, a pained look appeared on Zhuang Jia¡¯s face, ¡°Ah, you could have borrowed some money from your maternal family at that time, she didn¡¯t need to leave.¡±


    ¡°There was also nothing much to offer at your home, uncle, my mother knew that.¡±


    The Zhuang family was poor, barely making ends meet. Even if they went to borrow, they wouldn¡¯t get much.<div>


    At that time, Qiao Changsun¡¯s leg needed frequent treatments. Even without his medical expenses, he could not do any heavy work.


    And they had to pay their taxes.


    This wasn¡¯t a problem that could be solved by borrowing silver.


    Qiao Changsun, the pir of the family had fallen, and all the hardships and abuses suffered over the years had caused Zhuang Luhe to lose all hope.<div>


    Shepletely lost all hope for the future.


    So, she chose to leave.


    ¨r(¨s¨Œ¨t)¨q

 Chapter 450: 450: The Zhang Family Arrives

    Chapter 450: The Zhang Family Arrives


    ¡°Don¡¯t think about it anymore, it¡¯s all in the past. Your life is getting better now, so don¡¯t dwell on those unhappy things.¡± Seeing the frown on Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s face and her reddening eyes, Zhuang Jia quickly chimed in tofort her.


    Hua Xiaofeng also huffed, ¡°It¡¯s in the past, don¡¯t think about it. In the future, we¡¯ll find your mother and your family can live a peaceful life.¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡± Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s face mustered a forced smile, ¡°Uncle, grandma, it¡¯s almost noon, let me cook.¡±


    ¡°Cook, cook, I¡¯ll take care of the fire.¡± Zhuang Jia eximed in excitement.


    From a young age, he was spoiled by Zhuang L¨¹he and Hua Xiaofeng, which resulted in him beingzy and having a carefree attitude. Even when they were poor, he did not find life difficult and was always cheerful.


    Honestly speaking, he is not a good man with such traits.


    But, all he does is eat andze around, with a gentle temperament, causes no trouble, carries a smile for everyone.


    In Qiao¡¯s family, where entric people are everywhere, he was a rare good person.


    Moreover, he had helped out Zhuang L¨¹he before. Although he only gave a few pennies each time, it was a great help to the Qiao family at that time.


    Therefore, Qiao Xiaomai was willing to ept him with a smile on her face.<div>


    ¡°You sit down, it¡¯s so hot; I¡¯ll handle the fire.¡± Hua Xiaofeng held him back and said irritably, ¡°You are only hardworking when ites to eating, youzybum!¡±


    ¡°No need, mother, rest. This sour plum soup is so good. Have some more.¡± Zhuang Jia stood up, saw the pile of firewood in the shed, walked over and took some to the kitchen.


    Hua Xiaofeng got up and started to wander around.


    Seeing the wooden box used for sprouting beans, she asked Qiao Xiaomai what it was for.@@novelbin@@


    Qiao Xiaomai exined about the bean sprouts, ¡°Perfect, there are some at home, you can try themter.¡±


    Hua Xiaofeng agreed, ¡°Okay.¡±


    So the three of them chatted casually and started preparing lunch together.


    Soon after, Qiao Changshun and Qiao Dami arrived back home.


    Upon seeing Qiao Dami first, Hua Xiaofeng smiled but then started to curse Qiao Changshun.


    Words like coward and weakling were thrown at Qiao Changshun as if they were free. Pointing at Qiao Changshun¡¯s face, she sttered him with her spittle.


    Qiao Changshun lowered his head and rubbed his hands, letting Hua Xiaofeng shout at him.


    He owed Zhuang L¨¹he too much; this was something he deserved to bear.


    ¡°Enough, mother,e eat, Changshun didn¡¯t do it on purpose.¡± After watching Hua Xiaofeng¡¯s tirade go on for a while, Zhuang Jia interrupted her and coaxed Hua Xiaofeng to sit down.


    ¡°Humph, I just want him to know that our Zhuang family isn¡¯t weak, he shouldn¡¯t think about bullying your sister. I¡¯m telling you Qiao Changshun, when Xiaohees back, not only are you not allowed to despise her, but you must alsopensate her!¡± Hua Xiaofeng stated.


    Qiao Changshun nodded, ¡°As long as shees back, I will definitely treat her well.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s more like it!¡± Satisfied with the answer, Hua Xiaofeng stopped arguing and sat down at the table with Zhuang Jia¡¯s coaxing.


    Qiao Xiaomai looked at Qiao Dami and watched as he tilted his little face to look at Hua Xiaofeng, smiled, and said, ¡°What¡¯s all this talk about despising or not despising? My mother went out to work to earn money. When shees back, my dad will only cherish her more.¡±


    It was only then that Hua Xiaofeng realized she had spilled the beans and quickly pped her face lightly. Then turned to red at Qiao Changshun, ¡°It¡¯s all your fault not standing up for yourself! You make me look like a fool!¡±


    ¡°Alright, Father,e and eat.¡± Qiao Xiaomai ruffled Qiao Dami¡¯s hair and called for Qiao Changshun.<div>


    Qiao Changshun acknowledged and walked to the well to wash his hands with his limp.


    Just then, the courtyard door rang, ¡°Hello, is Qiao Xiaomai here?¡±


    ¡°Who is it?¡± Qiao Changshun responded.


    ¡°It¡¯s me.¡± The courtyard door opened, revealing the figure of Zhang¡¯s family at the entrance.<div>

 Chapter 451: 451: Demanding Sour Plum Soup

    Chapter 451: Demanding Sour Plum Soup


    For the Qiao Family, Mrs. Zhang was an unusual visitor. It was her first timeing to their house.


    Qiao Xiaomai immediately thought of Tong Sang, and quickly stood up, ¡°Auntie, why are you here?¡±


    Could something have happened to Tong Sang?


    Mrs. Zhang stood at the door, gave a smile, and said, ¡°I came to tell you something.¡±


    ¡°What is it?¡± Qiao Xiaomai walked towards the doorway.


    ¡°Everybody went to nt sweet potatoes today, right? On such a zing day, with people of all ages out in the field, I thought I¡¯de and ask you if you could make a pot of Sour Plum Soup. I¡¯ll deliver it to them in the fieldter.¡±


    ¡°Both your Grandfather Tong and Sang are in the field right now. The sweet potato seedlings are in abundance, and they won¡¯t be back until everything is nted. Everyone¡¯s working really hard.¡±


    After hearing what Mrs. Zhang said, Qiao Xiaomai was stunned for a moment.


    She couldn¡¯t believe that Mrs. Zhang came all the way for such a trivial matter.


    Qiao Xiaomai looked at Mrs. Zhang carefully.<div>


    Mrs. Zhang was beaten by Tong Xingda today. Although her hair was still neat and her clothes showed no trace of the fight, her slightly red eyes betrayed her plight.


    To put it bluntly, Mrs. Zhang disliked Qiao Xiaomai a lot, and the beating she received today was because of Qiao Xiaomai, so her smile was a bit forced.


    Qiao Xiaomai noticed Mrs. Zhang¡¯s unusual behavior, she slightly tilted her head, and asked, ¡°Who wants to drink the Sour Plum Soup?¡±


    It definitely wasn¡¯t because of Tong Tiehu and Sang.


    Neither the grandfather nor the grandson would do something like asking for Sour Plum Soup.


    Upon hearing Xiaomai¡¯s words, Mrs. Zhang¡¯s smile froze for a second. She had made the effort of visiting in person, yet Qiao Xiaomai wasn¡¯t readily agreeing. Did Xiaomai still want to marry her Sang or not!


    ¡°Of course, it¡¯s Sang who wants to drink it.¡± She took off the smile from her face and said solemnly.


    ¡°Oh, is that so?¡± Qiao Xiaomai smiled, ¡°Can it wait until this afternoon? I am currently eating, and we have guests at home.¡±


    She said this as she pointed to Hua Xiaofeng and Zhuang Jia who were sitting under the willow tree.


    At this moment, Hua Xiaofeng had already walked over, Sour Plum Soup?


    What¡¯s that?


    She scanned Mrs. Zhang from head to toe with her sharp eyes and huffed, ¡°Xiaomai, who is this? She traveled all the way in the hot sun just to beg for a bowl of Sour Plum Soup?¡±


    ¡°How poor must a household be to resort to begging? She¡¯s not dressed like someone who needs to beg though?¡±


    Beg for food?


    As these words were spoken, Mrs. Zhang¡¯s face instantly darkened.


    She red at Hua Xiaofeng, ¡°It seems to me that you are the one begging for food.¡±


    The clothes that Hua Xiaofeng wore were much inferior to hers.


    Hua Xiaofeng scoffed, ¡°If you¡¯re not here to beg, then what are you here for? Xiaomai, who is this? I¡¯ll go to your vige and ask around, see which wife in your vige is so pathetic that she ran all the way here to beg for Sour Plum Soup.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai looked at Hua Xiaofeng, but there was no smile on her face, ¡°She¡¯s the wife of the Vige Chief of Anping Vige.¡±<div>


    Even though she wasn¡¯t keen on Mrs. Zhang, she was after all, Sang¡¯s mother.


    She wasn¡¯t too thrilled to see her being treated this way by Hua Xiaofeng.@@novelbin@@


    If Sang found out about this, he would certainly not feelfortable either.


    Realizing this, she quickly said before Hua Xiaofeng could continue, ¡°Auntie, we have guests at home right now and I can¡¯t make the soup. I¡¯ll make it in the afternoon and deliver it to you in the field, is that alright?¡±<div>


    It was just a pot of Sour Plum Soup. Mrs. Zhang, her future mother-inw, personally came to ask for it, so she would oblige.

 Chapter 484: 484: Grandfather, Lets Divide The Family

    Chapter 484: Grandfather, Let¡¯s Divide The Family


    Zhang Family was also panicked.


    What to do?


    She does not want to grow sweet potatoes, working herself to death every day for just a bare subsistence.


    She yearns for the old days!


    ¡°Mother, why don¡¯t you ask Sang to see if Qiao Xiaomai really has a powerful backer? Did Sang refuse to marry her because of this?¡± Zhu Hongyun asked.


    Recalling the appearance of Tong Sang just now, Zhang Family smacked her thigh, ¡°That¡¯s very likely!¡±


    Now her family is impoverished, but Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s family is getting better and better, and then Qiao Xiaomai looked down upon her family!


    The reason why she is still being kind to her now should be because she has notpletely hooked up with those powerful people.


    If she really hooks up, she would definitely fall out with her!


    Quickly springing up a drama in her mind, Zhang Family set off to find Tong Sang.<div>


    Tong Sang, who was studying, heard her spection, ¡°¡­Mother, don¡¯t talk nonsense, you¡¯re ruining her reputation.¡±


    ¡°You silly boy! She normally drives you like a beast of burden, and now she despises you! Now you are studying hard, you want to attain schrly rank just to prove yourself to her, right?!¡±


    Tong Sang ¡°¡­¡±


    Turns out his mother has the talent to write drama stories.


    ¡°That¡¯s not true, mother, don¡¯t talk nonsense.¡±


    ¡°Still defending her! To death with your foolishness!¡± Zhang Family poked his shoulder hard, ¡°Worthless girl, turning up her nose at people,pletely ungrateful, after all the help your grandfather offered her!¡±


    Tong Sang ¡°¡­¡±


    He must hug Qiao Xiaomai tonight, this mother-inw rtionship is so tense, he dares not marry.


    ¡°I think you might as well rape her! Shameless dirty woman, just like her mother!¡± added Zhang Family.


    Tong Sang ¡°¡­¡±


    His father and mother are really a match, their thinking is alike.


    ¡°Mother, don¡¯t say any more.¡± His handsome face sank, ¡°What do you think of your son?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m just fighting for your rights!¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s nothing in the first ce. What rights are you talking about? I don¡¯t have any affair with her, and she hasn¡¯t associated with any powerful people. Don¡¯t say these words anymore.¡± Tong Sang¡¯s voice was icy, ¡°If grandfather heard what you said, he would definitely get angry again.¡±


    Zhang Family opened her mouth, holding back a belly full of vulgarities.


    She poked Tong Sang¡¯s shoulder again and left angrily after leaving a few harsh words.


    Tong Sang stared at the mmed bedroom door and pursed his lips.


    Such a deep misunderstanding can only be resolved by separating the family.


    And after the separation, his parents can¡¯t live with him.<div>


    Otherwise, he wouldn¡¯t dare to let Qiao Xiaomai marry him.


    With this in mind, he found some time in the next few days to talk to Tong Tiehu about this problem.


    Upon hearing this, Tong Tiehu¡¯s brow furrowed deeply.


    ¡°Why did I marry such a dumb woman back then!¡±<div>


    ¡°Grandpa, let¡¯s separate,¡± said Tong Sang. ¡°My mother and Xiaomai can¡¯t live together or something will happen.¡±


    Tong Tiehu gave him a deep look, ¡°After we separate, how will your Second Brother live?¡±


    ¡°If it¡¯s about work, it will be the same as before, but we won¡¯t live or eat together.¡±


    The Tong Family has three houses.


    One old yard, two new houses, but the rooms in the new house have been connected.


    ¡°How about Xiaomai, you, grandmother and I live in the old yard, and the others move to the new house?¡±


    ¡°Hmph, not good. Do you think they would agree to this?! Your mother wants you to marry Xiaomai because she wants to take advantage. If we separate like this, there¡¯s no advantage for her to take. Do you think she¡¯d agree?¡±

 Chapter 453: 453: Give Me the Food Youve Cooked

    Chapter 453: Give Me the Food You¡¯ve Cooked


    Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s performance was not exactly as she had imagined, but it was still decent enough to save her future mother-inw some face.


    However!


    A hysterical womaning out of nowhere used her of being a beggar!


    A beggar!


    She has lived half her life and is now a grandmother, yet she was insulted as such by a mad woman!


    Well, she really didn¡¯t want to marry her son anymore!


    With this in mind, she gritted her teeth and sneered, ¡°There is no white flour at home now, we have to grind wheat into flour. By the time I finish making the noodles and deliver them to the field, they will definitely be starving.¡±


    Originally, all she wanted was sour plum soup.


    But now, after being scolded by Hua Xiaofeng, she wanted more than just sour plum soup, she wanted the meal that Qiao Xiaomai had cooked!


    She tried to hide the gloominess on her face and put on a smile, ¡°Your family¡¯s meal is ready, and both your Grandpa Tong and Sang really like the food you cook, why don¡¯t I pay for it and deliver it to them in the field.¡±<div>


    ¡°The two acres ofnd we bought are quite far from our vige, even if I rushed over immediately, it would still bete.¡±


    Before Qiao Xiaomai could respond, Hua Xiaofeng jumped to her feet and yelled, ¡°Shameless! We haven¡¯t started eating and you¡¯re already buying the food, do you know how much Xiaomai¡¯s cooking costs? She cooked for the emperor, how can you think about buying her food if you don¡¯t have at least one hundred taels?¡±


    This shouting snapped Qiao Xiaomai back to reality.


    Qiao Xiaomai never expected the Zhang family to say something like this.


    She not only wanted sour plum soup, she also wanted a meal!


    After thinking quickly, she smiled, ¡°Okay, Grandpa Tong is an old man, why should he suffer such torment? Auntie, wait a moment, I will fill a food container for you.¡±


    If the Zhang family wanted it, she would give it.


    The Zhang family is her future mother-inw, the first time she asks for something, she must give face to her future mother-inw.


    As Qiao Xiaomai turned to leave, Hua Xiaofeng paused in surprise and quickly called out, ¡°Xiaomai, if you give her the food, what will we eat?!¡±


    ¡°We can just cook again.¡± Qiao Xiaomai replied.


    ¡°Why? We worked so hard cooking in this heat, why should we give her our meal just because she said so? Just because she¡¯s the wife of the vige chief, she can¡¯t bully us like this can she?!¡±@@novelbin@@


    ¡°Exactly, Xiaomai, what exactly is going on?¡± Zhuang Jia couldn¡¯t help but speak up.


    Zhuang Jia had watched Qiao Xiaomai cooking the entire time, and he was already salivating. Finally, when it was time to eat, she wants to take it away.


    This was too much!


    Qiao Xiaomaiughed and said, ¡°Uncle, I¡¯ll cook something deliciouster, let Auntie Tong take these.¡±


    Seeing this, Hua Xiaofeng stomped her foot and looked towards Qiao Changshun, ¡°Changsun, who is this woman exactly!¡±


    Qiao Changshun nervously wrung hisrge hands, how to exin this?


    After all, the Tong family wasn¡¯t here to propose marriage.


    Seeing Hua Xiaofeng¡¯s furious expression, she chuckled coldly, ¡°I am her future mother-inw, she wants to marry my son.¡±<div>


    At these words, Hua Xiaofeng was taken aback, then immediately turned to Qiao Changshun, ¡°Is Xiaomai engaged?¡±


    ¡°No.¡±


    ¡°Then what nonsense is she spouting!¡± Hua Xiaofeng scolded.


    ¡°She¡¯s hugged and embraced our Sang countless times, if she doesn¡¯t marry him, who else will she marry?¡± The Zhang family argued again with a cold smile.<div>


    ¡°Hugged and embraced?!¡± On hearing these four words, Hua Xiaofeng was even more furious, ¡°Is that something an unmarried girl should do?!¡±


    ¡°Look, she¡¯s taking advantage of Xiaomai right now!¡±

 Chapter 454: 454 Ill tear your mouth apart!

    Chapter 454: I¡¯ll tear your mouth apart!@@novelbin@@


    Qiao Changshun quickly waved his hand to exin, ¡°No, mother, you¡¯ve misunderstood. Xiaomai was injured on those asions, and Sang had no choice but to carry her for treatment.¡±


    ¡°Anyway, everyone saw Xiaomai getting close to Sang, now she can only marry him.¡± Zhang Family¡¯s matriarch scoffed.


    Hearing this, Hua Xiaofeng promptly turned her anger towards her, ¡°What vulgar nonsense! My Xiaomai is pure and innocent! Don¡¯t you dare tarnish her reputation!¡±


    ¡°Take a look at yourself before making such ims. My Xiaomai cooked for the Emperor! What is your son to her? He¡¯s a toad desiring the meat of a swan, I spit!¡± Hua Xiaofeng hurled a mouthful of spit towards the matriarch.


    ¡°I¡¯m warning you, if you dare to ruin Xiaomai¡¯s reputation again, I¡¯ll go to the academy and report you to the headmaster!¡±


    In Hua Xiaofeng¡¯s eyes, Xiaomai¡¯s worth skyrocketed overnight like a firework.


    Having cooked for the Emperor and acquainted with two princes, on top of her culinary skills, such qualifications made Xiaomai a prime marriage candidate even for an official.


    Now, this beggar of a woman from the Zhang Family dared to link her son with Xiaomai. This was uneptable!


    Zhuang Luhe¡¯s flight would undoubtedly damage Xiaomai¡¯s reputation, and now this shrew from the Zhang¡¯s was ndering her further. If these rumors are not curtailed, how could Xiaomai marry into a respectable family?!


    The better Xiaomai marries, the more benefits she stands to gain!<div>


    This matter must be rified today!


    At Hua Xiaofeng¡¯s outburst, Xiaomai, who was holding the food box, puckered her lips. Qiao Changshun rubbed hisrge hands together, stammering, wanting to exin but not knowing what to say.


    From the woman¡¯s perspective, this matter was certainly damaging to her reputation.


    Xiaomai and Tong Sang had mutual affection, but since the Tong family had not proposed marriage, he could not say anything.


    The silence from the Qiao Family was met with fury from the Zhang Family¡¯s matriarch.


    Being the daughter-inw of Vige Chief Tong Tiehu, she had been in Anping Vige for decades and nobody dare to talk to her like this, and now a lunatic out of nowhere dared to insult her!


    She stomped her foot, cursing fiercely, ¡°It was Xiaomai who seduced my son first! If you don¡¯t believe me, go ask Xiaomai yourself!¡±


    ¡°What utter rubbish! Xiaomai couldn¡¯t even look strangers in the eye before, it¡¯s clearly your son who saw her looks and high status and deliberately tricked her with sweet talk!¡± Hua Xiaofeng shouted back, ¡°Talk nonsense one more time, I dare you, I¡¯ll rip your stinking mouth apart!¡±


    ¡°Let me remind you, just because you¡¯re the daughter-inw of the Vige Chief doesn¡¯t mean you can tarnish others¡¯ reputations at will. If you dare say one more word, I¡¯ll swell your filthy mouth!¡±


    With these threatsing from her mouth, Hua Xiaofeng arrogantly took a few steps towards Zhang Family¡¯s matriarch.


    Having never dealt with such a brazen woman, the matriarch instinctively took a step back in fear.


    Hua Xiaofeng, like a victorious general, held her head higher and shot a triumphant look at the matriarch, snorting heavily.


    Left shaking from anger, the matriarch waspletely helpless.


    Xiaomai quickly packed up the dishes into the food box. She didn¡¯t have a food box before, this one was brought by Yang Ye for Yang Wenxiao, and now it wasing in handy.


    After packing a whole table of food into two big food boxes and a basket full of steamed buns, Xiaomai turned to the matriarch with a beaming smile, ¡°Auntie, don¡¯t be angry. Come, I¡¯ll walk you home.¡±

 Chapter 487: 487 We Will Be More Diligent

    Chapter 487: We Will Be More Diligent


    Tong Sang ¡°¡­¡±


    He fell silent under the fiery gaze of the Zhang Family.


    He would have absolutely been willing to support his parents.


    But his mother harbored a deep prejudice against his beloved woman.


    For the sake of his beloved, he chose to divide the family.


    This action could be considered unfilial.


    Now, faced with the questioning gaze of Zhang Family, he was about to falter.


    ¡°What are you staring at Sang for? Did he say he wouldn¡¯t support you? He just wants to read undistracted.¡± Tong Tiehu grunted and interrupted Zhang Family¡¯s gaze and silent me on Tong Sang.


    ¡°Sang wants to read quietly. As long as we don¡¯t make noise, it¡¯s fine.¡± Zhu Hongyun spoke up, ¡°As for household chores, we¡¯ll do more.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Tong Tiehu looked over, clearly skeptical.<div>


    Zhu Hongyun, seeing his reaction, pushed Tong Eng, ¡°Let Eng do the chores like sweeping, feeding the livestock and picking up firewood.¡±


    If they wereteing back, those chores would be done by Tong Sang.


    Upon hearing Zhu Hongyun, Tong Eng had a bitter expression as if he had swallowed a bitter pill. He was already exhausted from working in the fields every day, and now he had these chores too.


    Zhu Hongyun noticed his expression and pinched him, ¡°You don¡¯t pick up firewood every day, only when you¡¯re not working in the field.¡±


    Tong Eng reluctantly acknowledged it.


    Zhu Hongyun grinned at Tong Tiehu, ¡°Grandpa, don¡¯t worry, we won¡¯t let Sang do housework anymore.¡±


    Upon hearing her, Tong Tiehu looked at Tong Dng.


    Tong Dngughed, ¡°Grandpa, I will also work harder so as not to hinder my little brother¡¯s studies.¡±


    ¡°Exactly, Grandpa don¡¯t worry. Sang is our family¡¯s hope, we will not dy him.¡± Zhu Hongyun added, nodding vigorously.


    Tong Tiehu¡¯s gaze scanned each of their faces in turn.


    He sighed inwardly.


    He didn¡¯t actually want to divide the family either.


    Although he understood the true nature of his own family, emotionally he wasn¡¯t ready to give up.


    It was possible that these people could be changed for the better.


    So he¡¯d been trying to reform them with hard work these days, apanied by scolding that was harsh but truthful.


    He hoped this strategy would change thezy habits of his family.


    He wanted them to realize thatpared to most in the vige, their current situation was actually good.


    However, judging by the past few days, his high-pressure reform policy was not working.


    Moreover, watching the reactions of everyone now, his worries increased even more.<div>


    These people were sticking to Tong Sang instead of dividing the household- not because of their familial attachment, not because they hated to split up their family, but because of their interests.


    They knew they would have better days if they stuck with Tong Sang.


    How could this happen?


    Even though they had been stubborn and disobedient towards Qiao Xiaomai in the past, how could they crumble like this when it was time for their own family to unite?<div>


    He sighed again in his heart, looking at Tong Sang, ¡°Sang, keep a few hares or wild chickens next time you go hunting. You¡¯re always working and studying, take good care of your health.¡±


    Tong Sang answered, ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s eat.¡± Tong Tiehu picked up a piece of cucumber with his chopsticks.


    The others also started eating.


    Tong Xingda smiled, ¡°Sang, hunt a few more. Everyone needs to replenish their energy. We are running low.¡±


    Tong Sang only responded with a grunt, showing no change in expression.


    But a wave of despair surfaced in his heart.


    The n to divide the family had fallen through.


    And it had been med on his unfilialness¡­

 Chapter 488: 488: Let Them Start a Small Business

    Chapter 488: Let Them Start a Small Business


    Deep at night, Tong Sang went to find Qiao Xiaomai.


    He ryed the conversation from dinner to Qiao Xiaomai.


    His tone was no different than usual, but Qiao Xiaomai knew he was unhappy.


    She took out the small seven-inch cake from thest time he hadn¡¯t finished from her space, ¡°Here, eat this.¡±


    Tong Sang shook his head, ¡°Not hungry.¡±


    ¡°You should eat. If you feel bitter inside, you should taste something sweet.¡± Qiao Xiaomai dug out a spoonful of cream and held it out to him.


    He stared at Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s face for a while, then opened his mouth to take the spoonful.


    Qiao Xiaomai smiled, touched the tip of his nose with her free hand, ¡°Feeling miserable, isn¡¯t it?¡±


    Tong Sang only hummed in response.


    The cream in his mouth was so sweet it was almost suffocating¡­<div>


    ¡°Give me some water,¡± he requested.


    Qiao Xiaomai handed him a cup, ¡°I understand how you feel.¡±


    She¡¯s been fighting with her stepfather and stepmother since the age of ten, so she knows too well the feeling of helplessness when dealing with elders.


    ¡°We don¡¯t get to choose our parents, we¡¯re stuck with them from the moment we¡¯re born.¡±


    The Sun Family was her grandmother, so she could cut ties because they were a generation removed, and because they were indeed overbearing.


    But Tong Sang couldn¡¯t.


    While the Zhang Family didn¡¯t mistreat Tong Sang, they were just prejudiced against her.


    Tong Sang was caught in the middle, facing difficult choices.


    ¡°As we said before, let¡¯s just see how things go after your exam.¡± she advised.


    ¡°Hmm?¡± Tong Sang put the cup down, ¡°Will my mother arrange another girl for me once I pass the exam?¡±


    The Zhang family wanted to marry Qiao Xiaomai because they wanted to return to the good old days.


    But once he passed the exam and his value increased, his mother might want to find another girl.


    ¡°Just because you¡¯ve be a little schr, do you think a really rich family would look at you?¡± Qiao Xiaomai asked.


    ¡°A merchant family might. Plus, look at my qualifications.¡± Tong Sang said with a confident smirk.


    Qiao Xiaomaiughed, ¡°Careful there, don¡¯t get too big headed.¡±


    Seeing this, Tong Sang hurriedly put down his cup, grabbing her hand, ¡°I hope you¡¯ll forever only have eyes for me.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai hummed, ¡°Depends on how you behave.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll bepletely true and sincere, ready to follow you through life and death.¡± Tong Sang gripped her hand tighter.


    Qiao Xiaomai smiled, she pulled her hand free and scooped up another spoonful of cream, ¡°You sure know how to sweet talk.¡±<div>


    Tong Sang gulped down the cream, nodding strongly, ¡°I learned from the best.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai blinked, ¡°I¡¯ve just remembered something.¡±


    ¡°What?¡± Tong Sang asked, trying to ignore the overwhelmingly sweet taste.


    ¡°I can make malt candy, would you like me to teach you?¡±<div>


    Tong Sang ¡°¡­¡±


    The conversation had taken quite a turn.


    He paused for a moment before asking, ¡°Why did you think of this.¡±


    ¡°You called me sweet, so I thought of candy.¡±


    ¡°Then why teach me?¡±


    ¡°Your family¡¯s vinegar business is not very profitable. If you also sold malt candy, you could make a bit more.¡±


    ¡°And then?¡±


    ¡°Then if your eldest brother made vinegar and your second brother made malt candy, if everyone had a little business to run, they wouldn¡¯t rely solely on you.¡±


    Would they agree to divide the family if they learned how to make money for themselves?


    ¡°If all else fails, I can teach your mother how to make cold skin noodles. She wouldn¡¯t need to rely on you if she had her own business.¡±


    ¡°But that would expose our rtionship, only you know how to make cold skin noodles.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai frowned lightly, pondering before asking, ¡°What about making dried sweet potatoes?¡±


    ¡°Dried sweet potatoes?¡±<div>

 Chapter 489: 489: Zhuang Lühes Whereabouts

    Chapter 489: Zhuang L¨¹he¡¯s Whereabouts


    ¡°It¡¯s different from others¡¯ versions.¡±


    Sweet potatoes have only been introduced here recently, and people here have a simplistic way of eating them; sometimes they would just slice them up and sundry them into dried sweet potatoes.


    The taste of the dried sweet potatoes made this way is only mediocre, falling significantly short of the dried sweet potatoes sold inter eras.


    ¡°Your family has nted ten acres of sweet potatoes this year, and it won¡¯t all be for your own consumption. You can turn them into dried sweet potatoes to sell. The method is quite straightforward: just let the dried sweet potatoes sit for a while, wash them, steam them in the pot until they¡¯re cooked, and then dry them out.¡±


    ¡°It just adds one more step: steaming them in the pot.¡±


    ¡°Sounds simple enough. So, should I say that this is my idea?¡± Tong Sang said.


    ¡°Yes, just say it¡¯s your idea. The same way the brewing method for malt sugar was something you learned from some misceneous books. In any case, find some money-making things for your mother to do and stop her from putting all her hopes on you.¡±


    ¡°And your second brother, too. Let his wife and him not put all their hope on you either. Instead of them betting on you to bring wealth to the family, they should learn how to make their own money.¡±


    A craft that doesn¡¯t strain you and yet makes money is always a good thing.


    ¡°Agreed.¡± Tong Sang pondered and nodded in assent.<div>


    ¡°If the dried sweet potatoes don¡¯t work out, bring up the malt sugar enterprise to your second brother in the next few days,¡± Qiao Xiaomai suggested.


    ¡°Okay.¡±


    Having settled this matter, Tong Sang heaved a sigh of relief, feeling a bit lighter.


    He took the initiative to take the spoon, scooping up the cake to eat. He didn¡¯t feel bitter inside anymore, and the cake he was eating now didn¡¯t taste as suffocating as before.


    ¡°What are you doing tomorrow?¡± He asked.


    ¡°I¡¯ll deliver the chili to Yang Ye¡¯s guard in the town.¡± The chili was ripe; she had taken out the seeds, and the chili skin was for Yang Ye.


    One could only grow a little bit each year ¨C who knew how many years it would take before one could savor chili unabashedly.


    ¡°Oh¡­ there¡¯s something I need to tell you.¡± She opened her mouth again.


    ¡°What is it?¡±


    ¡°When my maternal grandmother visited the other day, she suggested that I should find my mother and bring her back. Since I¡¯ve decided to speak up, I won¡¯t hesitate,¡± Qiao Xiaomai said directly, ¡°I didn¡¯t tell you before because I was unsure.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve made up my mind now. I think it would be better for my family to have an elder, and moreover, I should fulfill the duties of the original body¡¯s filial piety.¡±


    After all, she had taken over the body of the original owner and Zhuang L¨¹he was not a shrew like the Sun Family¡¯s woman ¨C she felt pity for Zhuang L¨¹he.


    Now that their family was wealthy, even if Zhuang L¨¹he were to return and found things wrong, if she insisted that she had to toughen up out of necessity, Zhuang L¨¹he would have nothing to say.


    In any case, she was now the head of the household.


    After hearing her words, Tong Sang kept silent for a moment. Then he said, ¡°Actually¡­ Tingfeng Pavilion had already located her whereabouts a while ago, but I noticed that you didn¡¯t seem to want her to return, so I never mentioned it to you.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai ¡°!!!¡±


    Did Tong Sang already know about Zhuang L¨¹he¡¯s whereabouts?!


    Her peach blossom eyes were suddenly wide open. ¡°When did you start looking into this?!¡±


    ¡°Since I discovered a change in your personality, I ordered someone to start investigating. Once our rtionship was confirmed, I received the news,¡± Tong Sang exined truthfully.<div>


    ¡°That early?¡±


    ¡°At that time, I didn¡¯t know who you were or anything about you, so I was wary. Inquiring about her whereabouts was just a matter of word of mouth, so I gave the order,¡± Tong Sang exined.


    Looking back on his feelings at the time, he found it somewhat amusing.


    ¡°So where is she? Is she doing well?¡± Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s heart tightened momentarily, forgetting about her curiosity regarding Tong Sang¡¯s thought process back then and hastily asked.<div>

 Chapter 458: 458: Beat Me to Death

    Chapter 458: Beat Me to Death


    ¡°Grandma, do you have any good suggestions?¡± asked Qiao Xiaomai.


    ¡°Of course! Give her a good p in the face! The next time she dares toe begging for food, throw a piece of shit at her!¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai was speechless¡­


    Imagining that scene, she suddenly lost her appetite.


    ¡°As long as that Tong Sang or whoever really wants to marry you, he¡¯ll definitelye again! The more times hees, the more demands you can make.¡±


    Hua Xiaofeng tapped her chopsticks on the table and admonished Qiao Xiaomai, ¡°In any case, you can¡¯t agree to marry too easily. You must hold the initiative in your own hands.¡±


    ¡°Once they realize that you¡¯re not easy to marry or bully, they¡¯ll naturally tuck their tails between their legs and try to please you.¡±


    Hearing this, Qiao Xiaomai nodded.


    Considering how greedy the Zhang Family was, they would certainly covet her money.


    When that time came, if she held her head high and did not easily agree, she would surely force the Zhang Family to humble themselves and curry favor with her.<div>


    Sigh¡­


    If only Tong Sang could be like Qiao Qinghe and be her son-inw instead.


    Living with the Tong Family, she really wasn¡¯t used to it!


    Speaking of the Zhang Family and Zhu Hongyun¡­


    The mother-inw and daughter-inw, driving an oxcart, finally arrived in the fields after fifteen minutes.


    Zhu Hongyun jumped off the cart before it even stopped, waving at the people still working in the fields, ¡°Grandpa, grandma, dad, mealtime!¡±@@novelbin@@


    In the hot midday sun, thirsty and tired, the work efficiency of the Tong Family had decreased. In half an hour, only a few sweet potato shoots had been nted.


    Hearing the call for mealtime revitalized them, as they quickly got up and ran towards the oxcart.


    There was not a single tree near these two acres ofnd, so the group could only stand in the scorching sun to eat.


    Tong Tiehu nced at the two prominentrge food boxes, his face immediately darkening, ¡°Where did thise from?¡±


    While pouring water out of a pot for everyone to wash their hands, Zhang Family¡¯s matriarch chuckled, ¡°This is made by Qiao Xiaomai.¡±


    ¡°You actually went to her house to beg for food?¡± Tong Tiehu¡¯s face immediately turned pale.


    Qiao Xiaomai hadn¡¯t said she would make lunch for them today, so there was only one possibility: the Zhang Family¡¯s matriarch had taken the initiative to seek out Qiao Xiaomai.


    Zhang Family¡¯s matriarch was confident in her actions, ¡°There¡¯s no more white flour at home. If we were to grind wheat, who knows how long that would take. So I went to the Qiao Family. They happened to have guests over, and had made too much food. I offered to buy it, but they declined, so I brought it over.¡±


    ¡°Anyways, she¡¯s to be married to Sang. What¡¯s the harm in eating a meal she made?!¡±


    Hearing this, Tong Tiehu took a deep breath, gritted his teeth, and pronounced, word by word, ¡°Xingda, hit her, hit her hard!¡±


    Tong Xingda, originally washing his hands, promptly snatched the pottery jug from matriarch Zhang, and kicked her in the stomach, knocking her over.


    Caught off guard by this sudden kick, the matriarch Zhang was stupefied. The force of this kick was much stronger than the ps she received earlier in the day!


    Groaning in pain, she clutched her stomach and retorted, ¡°What did I say wrong? If she can¡¯t stand it, let her not marry!¡±<div>


    In her heart, she wanted to retort, ¡®if you can¡¯t stand it, don¡¯t eat.¡¯ She had travelled such a long distance to bring the food, only to be kicked away.


    But Tong Tiehu¡¯s terror held over from the past made her swallow her words.


    ¡°When did she ever say she would marry Sang? You think your Sang is some hotmodity?¡± Tong Tiehu scoffed, ¡°Xingda, hit her! Hit her in the face! I want to see if she still dares to spout nonsense!¡±


    <div>

 Chapter 491: 491: Its Not Her Fault

    Chapter 491: It¡¯s Not Her Fault


    Qiao Xiaomai quickly thought of an idea, ¡°Just say I heard from Tingfeng Pavilion about her whereabouts.¡±


    ¡°Then how did you learn about Tingfeng Pavilion?¡±


    ¡°I learned of it from the lips of nobles who saw your impressive martial arts and asked you to make inquiries.¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡± Tong Sang nodded, agreeing with the story.


    ¡°However, have you really thought this through? If shees back, you won¡¯t be as free as you are now in this home, and we won¡¯t be able to meet like this at night.¡±


    Although Zhuang Luhe was not clever, she was much smarter than the father and son duo ¨C Qiao Changshun and Qiao Dami.


    She would surely discover his trysts with Qiao Xiaomai in the courtyard every night.


    ¡°We¡¯ll have to behave ourselves for now. As for the house, it¡¯s okay. The wall of the manor is almost repaired. I¡¯ll have Master Miao start building a house there tomorrow, and I¡¯ll move there then.¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡± Tong Sang looked surprised. ¡°Where are you nning to move?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll start with the story of Tingfeng Pavilion tomorrow, and then say I¡¯m having you make some inquiries. It is estimated that it will take a month back and forth. Once I really bring her back, we¡¯ll need a few days of adjustment, and it will be time for the autumn harvest.¡±<div>


    ¡°During the autumn harvest, someone will have to move there.¡±


    Tong Sang ran through that timeline, nodding, ¡°Alright, let¡¯s do as you say.¡±


    The two discussed a few more details, and Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s emotions steadily settled. Tong Sang stayed with her, chatting about lighter matters until she was nearly asleep, before he left.


    Qiao Xiaomai woke up after only two hours of sleep, had breakfast, and then took the ox cart to town.


    After passing along the chili pepper skins and chili oil method to Yang Ye¡¯s guard, she bought some groceries and then drove the ox cart back to the vige.


    At noon, after lunch, when Qiao Dami was taking a nap, she sat in the courtyard with Qiao Changshun and started talking, ¡°Dad, I heard about Tingfeng Pavilion by ident.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s that for?¡± asked Qiao Changshun.


    ¡°It¡¯s for gathering information. As long as you¡¯re willing to provide silver, they can find out anything. So I thought, why don¡¯t we have Tingfeng Pavilion look into mom¡¯s whereabouts?¡±


    Qiao Changshun was silent¡­


    He was stupefied, then nodded in agreement, ¡°Alright.¡±


    When Hua Xiaofeng came on that day, Qiao Xiaomai made a promise to find Zhuang Luhe.


    He had also been thinking about it these few days, noticing that Qiao Xiaomai was not taking action, he was thinking of asking her about it. Now she had brought it up on her own.


    He rubbed his hands together, then added, ¡°Let¡¯s do it. Dami has been calling for her in his sleep many times.¡±


    ¡°What about you, Dad? If Momes back, will you me her?¡± Qiao Xiaomai asked.


    ¡°No, I won¡¯t me her at all. I¡¯m the one who has failed her these years.¡±


    As a man, he failed to protect his wife and children. He had no right to me Zhuang Luhe.


    ¡°Our lives have improved, let¡¯s bring her back, so she can also enjoy some good days.¡± After pausing, Qiao Changshun looked at Qiao Xiaomai, his eyes reddening, ¡°Don¡¯t me her either. She¡¯s always loved you very much.¡±


    People in the vige put boys over girls. He and Zhuang Luhe only had Qiao Dami seven years after Qiao Xiaomai was born. During those seven years, Zhuang Luhe was often bullied by the Sun family and her sisters-inw because she couldn¡¯t have a son.


    Yet Zhuang Luhe never took her anger out on Qiao Xiaomai, she loved her very much. After Qiao Dami was born, this love for her did not change.<div>


    ¡°I know, I can tell from the situation with Zhaodi and Yindi,¡± Qiao Xiaomai nodded.


    The only mistake Zhuang Luhe made was eloping with another man. Her past actions far outweigh this mistake.


    Upon hearing this, Qiao Changshun was relieved, ¡°Then go ahead and do it.¡±


    There¡¯s hope for better days ahead¡­<div>

 Chapter 492: 492: She Figured Out How to Cook Bean Sprouts

    Chapter 492: She Figured Out How to Cook Bean Sprouts


    So the matter proceeded as Qiao Xiaomai had imagined. She went to find Tong Sang and let him inquire about Tingfeng Pavilion.


    However, at this stage, she had a new idea.


    Her rtionship with Tong Sang was quite cold right now, like a man who would not marry a woman who refuses to be his wife. Nheless, she would have to offer him a reward for her errands.


    She took out the recipe for maltose, which was to be Tong Sang¡¯s reward for finding Tingfeng Pavilion.


    Another recipe.


    Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s family had built its fortune on these recipes.


    The Zhang family, who originally had a deep misunderstanding of Qiao Xiaomai, epted the recipe willingly when they realized they could not use this matter to facilitate a marriage between Qiao Xiaomai and Tong Sang.


    Common people don¡¯t typically make maltose. It is sold in town and is cheaper than cane sugar.


    In the past, peddlers brought a variety of small household items to sell in the vige, and maltose was always a must-have. Families that adored their children were willing to spend a few coins on it.


    Although the profit may be small, it is certainly better than nothing.<div>


    Zhang family eagerly announced, ¡°We will start preparing today and sell sugar along with the vinegar.¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡± Tong Tiehu agreed, ¡°In the future, my eldest son will handle the vinegar, my second son the sugar, and all profit will go into the public coffer.¡±


    Hearing this, Li Rou asked, ¡°Grandfather, do you mean this recipe is only for Erng and his wife to learn?¡±


    Hearing this, Zhu Hongyun quickly said, ¡°If you let me and Erng learn how to make vinegar, then you and big brother can learn how to make maltose.¡±


    Li Rou only smiled, her eyes on Tong Tiehu.


    Tong Tiehu nodded, ¡°Per Erng¡¯s wife¡¯s suggestion, the maltose recipe will be learned by Erng and his wife.¡±


    Hearing this, the smile on LiRou¡¯s face disappeared.


    Tong Tiehu continued, ¡°This is a preparation for future divestment. It¡¯s good for everyone to master some kind of craft. As for now, the profit will still go to the public coffer, which benefits everyone.¡±


    When the profit goes to the public coffer, it will be distributed to everyone equally when the family splits up.


    No one refuted this proposal.


    Zhu Hongyun and Tong Eng, following Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s recipe, hurriedly began preparations.


    Members of the Zhang family also followed out of curiosity.


    Making maltose wasn¡¯tplex. First, select some full grains of wheat and rinse them with water, then let the wheat germinate, like one would do with bean sprouts.


    ¡°Oh?¡± The Zhang family, seeing Tong Eng and Zhu Hongyun busying themselves, suddenly had an idea, ¡°The wheat germinates after being soaked in water ¡ª could Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s bean sprouts be made in the same way?¡±


    At this remark, the crowds who hadn¡¯t dispersed yet fell into stunned silence.


    Tong Sang ¡°¡­¡±


    The bean sprout method had unexpectedly been revealed?


    He turned towards Tong Tiehu.


    Tong Tiehu was also looking at him, sporting an exasperated expression.<div>


    Zhu Hongyun reacted, pping her thigh excitedly, ¡°It must be exactly like this!¡±


    ¡°Eng, go grab some beans!¡± she ordered.


    Tong Eng rushed into the house and promptly came out with half a bag of soybeans, wearing a smile on his face, ¡°Qiao Xiaomai is really naive! She never would¡¯ve guessed that we¡¯d figure out how to make bean sprouts!¡±


    In the past, Tong Tiehu always scolded him for beingzy.<div>


    But now, it seemed Qiao Xiaomai wasn¡¯t very clever either.


    ¡°Qiao Xiaomai sells bean sprouts in the vige for two catty per coin, and it¡¯s one catty per coin in town. Oh, with two new recipes now, our family will surely prosper!¡± Zhu Hongyun said excitedly.


    Qiao Xiaomai made bean sprouts intermittently when she had time. With so many people in Anping Vige, just selling bean sprouts every day could bring in dozens of copper coins, right?


    If they were transported and sold in town, it could be over a hundred copper coins a day.


    If you add it to the profits from maltose and the vinegar shop, the three small businessesbined could match the profit of the previous vinegar shop in town.

 Chapter 493: 493: All Hopes are on Tong Sanlangs Hunting

    Chapter 493: All Hopes are on Tong Sang¡¯s Hunting


    Havinge up with one method, they¡¯d thought of another, filling some of the Tong Family with glee.


    With happiness written across her face, Mrs. Zhang asked, ¡°Is this all the soybeans we have left?¡±


    Tong Eng nodded, ¡°Yes.¡±


    The half bag of soybeans was fromst year, soybeans couldn¡¯t serve as staple food, so the family had always grown a minimal amount each year.


    ¡°Ah no, that won¡¯t do!¡± Mrs. Zhang eximed, smacking her thigh.


    Zhu Hongyun also frowned. How many sprouts would they get from a half bag of soybeans?


    They¡¯d probably sell out in a day or two!


    She looked at Tong Sang, ¡°Sang, you often go to town to sell game, could you buy a few bags of soybeans while you¡¯re at it?¡±


    The amount of game Tong Sang hunt varied, she had intentionally observed, that he consistently earned more than twenty taels from each sale.


    Yet every time he only bought two acres of prime farnd, spending just twenty taels. Surely he must pocket the rest.<div>


    This made Zhu Hongyun green with envy.


    See, having martial arts skills was beneficial, earning silver has never been easier!


    Since Tong Sang was so good at earning money, naturally that would make him the best person to buy the soybeans.


    Moreover, if they really could produce bean sprouts, they would certainly need arge number of soybeans in the future, it seems only logical to let Tong Sang take charge of buying them!


    Tong Sang nodded in response to Zhu Hongyun¡¯s words.


    If it would keep these people busy, he didn¡¯t mind spending a little silver.


    True, every time he went hunting, he had some silver left over, but he¡¯d given all of it to Tong Tiehu.


    Tong Tiehu had been the head of the household for so long, it¡¯s only fair he had some silver in his hand in his old age.


    Look at the state of things at home, a little silver was a necessity!


    Upon receiving Tong Sang¡¯s approval, Zhu Hongyun felt ted and ordered Tong Eng to clean the soybeans.


    ¡°Sang, you might as well buy a few more acres ofnd to grow soybeans on,¡± Mrs. Zhang suggested. ¡°Buying soybeans all the time will just waste silver.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s a bitte now to nt soybeans.¡± Tong Xingda interjected.


    ¡°It¡¯s not toote. It¡¯s roughly the same as sweet potatoes, just harvest a few dayste. Even if the beans don¡¯t grow well, it¡¯s still better than constantly having to buy them,¡± Mrs. Zhang argued.


    ¡°All right,¡± Tong Sang had no objection.


    For him, it was merely a matter of hunting for a few more days.


    And so, it was settled.


    When Tong Sang ryed what had transpired to Qiao Xiaomai that evening, she was taken aback for a moment before saying, ¡°That¡¯s pretty clever!¡±


    ¡°Um, you don¡¯t mind, do you?¡± Tong Sang asked.


    ¡°Of course not. I hope these things keep them busy so they don¡¯t have the energy to pester you. But, I¡¯ll have to pretend to object.¡± Qiao Xiaomai said with a smile.<div>


    ¡°Also, isn¡¯t it dangerous going hunting all the time? Your clothes got tornst time.¡±


    Buying soybeans, buyingnd, all the silver they had was because of hunting.


    She had no idea what was actually happening over at Rooster Mountain. What if he was to encounter danger?


    ¡°I got caught on a twig, that¡¯s all. There are no dangerous animals there. If there were, my Master wouldn¡¯t live in the mountains,¡± Tong Sang reassured her, ¡°Don¡¯t worry.¡±<div>


    ¡°But hunting must be strenuous, right?¡±


    She had seen wild chickens and rabbits when collecting firewood in the mountains. They ran so fast that she couldn¡¯t even touch their fur or feathers.


    Not to mention dangerous animals like wild boars.


    ¡°It isn¡¯t hard. In any case, I often need to train and move around. Hunting not only allows me to train but also provides game. It¡¯s great.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai stared at his handsome face for a few seconds before sighing.


    She was worried for Tong Sang.


    Even if he was skilled in martial arts, the Tong family shouldn¡¯t take his assistance for granted.

 Chapter 462: 462: Delivering Sour Plum Soup

    Chapter 462: Delivering Sour Plum Soup


    After having her meal, Qiao Xiaomai declined Hua Xiaofeng¡¯s request to stay and fight the Sun and Zhang families. She packed her donkey cart full of stuff and then sent Hua Xiaofeng on her way.


    Today, Hua Xiaofeng¡¯s furious rant had provided Qiao Xiaomai with a clearer way of thinking.


    Under the current circumstance, she couldn¡¯t be too eager, otherwise, it would make the Zhang family morecent.


    She could only wait for the Zhang family toe and propose for marriage.


    How to attract the Zhang family to propose marriage?


    Money.


    Because of money, the previously harmonious Tong family had instantly shown their ugly faces with bared fangs.


    She had money, she was the richest person in Anping Vige.


    She needed to unt her wealth appropriately.


    Well¡­how to do that?<div>


    Withouting to any conclusion, she poured the freshly made sour plum soup into a pottery jar, and then drove the ox cart towards the Tong family¡¯s sweet potato field.


    Since she had promised to send sour plum soup, she naturally had to deliver it.


    Of course, she also intended to see the end result for the Zhang family and Zhu Hongyun.


    This mother-daughter duo marching into her home to ask for food, Tong Tiehu wouldn¡¯t let them off easily.


    By the time she arrived at the Tong family¡¯s sweet potato field, umbre in hand, it was already mid-inning.


    After enduring half a day of sun exposure, everything from the wild grasses by the road, the crops in the field, and the people working in the field had wilted, especially the Tong family.


    Having livedfortably for so many years, nting sweet potatoes today was undoubtedly a hellish torture for them.


    Therefore, the sour plum soup delivered by Qiao Xiaomai was like a ray of light in this hell.


    Sour and sweet and cool, gulping down arge bowl in one go was refreshing!


    Tong Tiehu didn¡¯t expect Qiao Xiaomai to actually deliver the sour plum soup. He sighed, also went over to fill a bowl, and then motioned for Qiao Xiaomai to stand by his side.


    The rest crowded around the ox cart, each holding a bowl, drinking heartily one bowl after another.


    Tong Tiehu held the sour plum soup in one hand while using his other hand to wave his straw hat as a fan, saying, ¡°After Sang returns home, let him settle today¡¯s meal for you. It was wrong of your aunt toe to your house without notice to buy food.¡±


    ¡°Oh, Grandpa Tong, no need to. You¡¯ve helped me so much in the past. This small food offering is nothing,¡± Qiao Xiaomai quickly waved her hand.


    ¡°Helping you is my duty as a vige chief, and your offering to thank me shows good etiquette. But your aunt taking the initiative toe over, that¡¯s a different story.¡± Tong Tiehu spoke seriously, ¡°You¡¯re a pure girl, you shouldn¡¯t have to tolerate such nonsense.¡±


    As Tong Tiehu mentioned this, he cast a nce at Mrs. Zhang.


    After being beaten, she slowly sat up on her own once the pain subsided.


    With Tong Tiehu¡¯s words still resonating, no one helped her.


    Tong Xingda had beaten her with his own hands. Tong Eng, feeling sorry for Zhu Hongyun, only asked about her condition perfunctorily. Tong Dng asked a few superficial questions and took no action, while Tong Sang left outright.


    Men are unreliable, and so were her three sons. As the ground was scorched by the sun and was too hot to lie down on, she had no choice but to sit up.<div>


    Tong Tiehu said she wasn¡¯t allowed to eat, but there were still two steamed buns and half a te of vegetables left in the food box.


    She ate slowly, then continued with her work.


    Zhu Hongyun did the same.


    Although beaten, they still had to work.<div>


    There was no choice; today in the Tong family felt like hell, but if they returned to their maternal home, it would be an everyday hell.


    They have no way out and as such, they must endure everything that happened today.


    While dragging their feet, they saw Qiao Xiaomai arrive and Zhu Hongyun promptly came over.


    Although her cheek was swollen and ugly, and her body ached, she would never miss out on this sour plum soup.@@novelbin@@


    Sensing Tong Tiehu¡¯s gaze, she quietly turned her body, showing her back to him.


    Seeing this, Tong Tiehu snorted coldly, why had he been blind in the past to let this nest of stupid women into the family!

 Chapter 463: 463: Can You Marry into My Family?

    Chapter 463: Can You Marry into My Family?


    Qiao Xiaomai watched this scene silently, then she smiled and diverted the topic, ¡°Where is Sang? Why I don¡¯t see Tong Sang?¡±


    ¡°After he finished his work, he went around here,¡± Tong Tiehu replied.


    Upon hearing this, Qiao Xiaomai gave a long sigh of acknowledgement, thinking that having light agility would be really nice.


    ¡°Wait for him for a while. When he returns, you two can go home together and let him get your meal,¡± Tong Tiehu said again.


    ¡°Grandpa Tong, it seems a bit rude if you put it that way.¡±


    ¡°For you, everyone else in this family is an outsider anyway. It¡¯s normal to be considered as such,¡± said Tong Tiehu, keeping a straight face.


    Upon hearing this, Qiao Xiaomai blinked and nodded, ¡°Let¡¯s do as Grandpa Tong said.¡±


    Just then, Tong Sang returned.


    Seeing Qiao Xiaomai, he was slightly surprised. Looking at the sour plum soup in his family¡¯s bowls, he immediately understood.


    Then his guilt deepened.<div>


    Tong Tiehu sternly said, ¡°Go home with Xiaomai, and give her the money for food. We ran out of white flour at home; mill some, then go back to study.¡±


    Tong Sang responded.


    Glimpsing his family silently sipping the sour plum soup, he pursed his lips and climbed into Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s ox-cart.


    As he started to move the cart, Qiao Xiaomai sat on the cart holding an umbre. Once the Tong family was out of sight, he finally said, ¡°I¡¯m sorry.¡±


    ¡°Why are you apologizing? It¡¯s okay.¡± Qiao Xiaomai took an ice cream box from the space and poked his back with her hand, ¡°Here, have some to cool off.¡±


    Tong Sang turned around, looking at her small smiling face and asked, ¡°Are you really not upset?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not upset at the moment.¡±


    Tong Sang raised an eyebrow and took the ice cream. ¡°What Grandpa and I meant is, you should start acting high and mighty and stop taking care of my family.¡±


    ¡°Hmm?¡± Qiao Xiaomai was puzzled.


    ¡°I just thought about it and actually, from the start, my mother and sister-inw didn¡¯t have a good impression of you,¡± Tong Sang replied while eating the ice cream.


    ¡°With the situation back at my house before, it¡¯s normal for them not to have a good impression.¡±@@novelbin@@


    ¡°No, no, no, that¡¯s not the reason. It¡¯s more because of Zhu Cuiying. At that time, she was hoping that Qiao Meipan or Qiao Ying would marry me. Therefore, she often visited our ce to chat with my sister-inw. After hearing a lot from her, my sister-inw formed a bad impression of you.¡±


    ¡°Then she influenced my mother¡¯s opinion, causing her to have a bad impression of you as well.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Qiao Xiaomai fell into silence, ¡°¡­¡±


    This seemed terribly unfair to her!


    ¡°After that, when you came to ask for Grandpa¡¯s help, my sister-inw wanted to spread gossip about your family. Grandpa scolded her, and that¡¯s when the conflict started,¡± Tong Sang recalled the urrences of the past few months, analyzing each event for her. ¡°Also, thest time the goat milk that was sent back by Dami caused another dispute.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai interjected, ¡°¡­That wasn¡¯t my fault.¡±


    ¡°Of course it wasn¡¯t. It was my fault. I had no idea she wanted that bucket of goat milk, so I asked Dami to take it back.¡±


    ¡°It was her fault! Don¡¯t you, as the grandson of the Tong family, have the right to decide about a bucket of goat milk? She just likes to make trouble!¡± Qiao Xiaomai retorted.<div>


    Tong Sang gave a wry smile, ¡°Anyway, the prejudice is already deep. After today¡¯s incident, it will only get deeper.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai stared at him, her ck eyes moving restlessly, ¡°Is there a possibility that your family will split up?¡±


    ¡°Split up?¡± Tong Sang was taken aback for a moment, ¡°No. Both my elder brother and second brother don¡¯t want that to happen.¡±


    ¡°Then can you marry into my family?¡± Qiao Xiaomai asked again, ¡°My dad and Dami are easy-going and very good to get along with.¡±<div>

 Chapter 464: 464: Shes Marrying Down

    Chapter 464: She¡¯s Marrying Down


    Tong Sang¡¯s bitter smile deepened, ¡°No, we already don¡¯t have enough people in our family as it is.¡±


    Marrying into Xiaomai¡¯s family was utterly impossible.


    ¡°So what should we do now? From the look of your mother earlier, I¡¯m afraid she¡¯ll hate me for the rest of her life.¡± The way her face swelled up showed she must have been severely beaten.


    This grudge, it will probably never be resolved.


    Tong Sang also fell silent, quickly finishing his ice cream. He handed the box to Qiao Xiaomai asking, ¡°Did your family have guests today?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, my grandmother, she¡¯s quite something. She was slinging out a string of words that left your mother trembling with anger.¡± Qiao Xiaomai recounted the situation from the early afternoon.


    Hearing this, Tong Sang looked astonished, ¡°Indeed, only a shrew like her could match the Sun family¡¯s strength.¡±


    ¡°Indeed, she¡¯s truly powerful. She never stops talking. My ears are still buzzing with the sound of her voice.¡± Qiao Xiaomai clicked her tongue a few times.


    ¡°But she does have a point, and it coincides with my and my grandfather¡¯s thoughts. It seems, from now on, we should try not to interact publicly. You should start building your manor.¡±


    ¡°Build it grandly, let the whole vige know, more importantly, let them know exactly how much money you have.¡±<div>


    Zhang Family has a deep-rooted impression of Qiao Xiaomai, a pitiful creature always seeking help when being oppressed by the Sun Family.


    So they always looked down upon Qiao Xiaomai.


    They knew Qiao Xiaomai was affluent, but they had no idea of the grandeur of her wealth.@@novelbin@@


    Therefore, the task Qiao Xiaomai needs to undertake at present is to unt her wealth: by constructing the manor.


    Furthermore, it would be better to invite some VIPs to boost her status.


    So that Zhang Family realizes that Qiao Xiaomai has greatly evolved both in terms of wealth and status, pertaining to their shing identitypared to the past. They should be fully aware of the current disparity between the two families.


    Qiao Xiaomai is no longer the pitiful soul that always came seeking help after being oppressed by the Sun Family.


    If Qiao Xiaomai gets married to him now, it would be a step-down for her.


    Whereas for him and his family Tong, it will be marrying above their station.¡±


    ¡°In that case, you should hire a construction team from the town tomorrow to construct your manor,¡± he suggested.


    People from Anping vige usually contact Tong Tiehu whenever they n to construct houses. Tong Tiehu informs everyone by ringing a bell, and whoever wants to earn some extra money can help out.


    Previously, Qiao Changshun went out to construct houses like this and ended up breaking his leg in the process.


    But constructing houses this way requires the homeowner to handle many things like purchasing bricks,ying the foundation, settlingbour costs, and the likes, which can be quite bothersome.


    The construction team in the town was initially formed under the lead of director Gu and its members are all skilled house constructors from nearby viges. When they are short on manpower, they hire people from the vige as well.


    Most of the houses in Bailu town were constructed by this team.


    ¡°When you hire this construction team, all you need to do is pay them. You don¡¯t have to worry about anything else.¡±


    ¡°But I haven¡¯t finished drawing the blueprints,¡± Qiao Xiaomai remarked.


    ¡°Then just start by constructing the perimeter wall for now.¡± No matter what you build, a perimeter wall is a must, ¡°The main aim is to let my mother see your wealth. Considering our family¡¯s condition, she will certainlye around soon.¡±


    ¡°By then, when we propose marriage to you¡­ and after you¡¯re married into our family¡­¡± Tong Sang pursed his lips.<div>


    By then, Zhang Family would probably try to take advantage of Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s wealth.


    He was worried she won¡¯t agree to marry.


    But if she agrees to marry and they start living together, it will lead to more annoying issues.


    What to do?<div>


    Would it be possible to solve the problem if we split the family?

 Chapter 465: 465: How are the Profits from this Vinegar Shop Distributed?

    Chapter 465: How are the Profits from this Vinegar Shop Distributed?


    On their way, Tong Sang and Qiao Xiaomai were discussing the division of their family assets.


    Tong Eng can¡¯t support himself, and given the current situation at home, he definitely wouldn¡¯t agree to the partition.


    Tong Dng controls the vinegar-making skills. If the family is divided, he might agree.


    But who would Tong Xingda and the Zhang Family stay with?


    This is hard to say.


    When they reached the entrance to the vige, Qiao Xiaomai subconsciously coughed a few times, ¡°Sang, am I doing something wrong?¡±


    She hasn¡¯t even married yet and she¡¯s instigating Tong Sang to divide the family. Tong Sang is very filial, she doesn¡¯t want to make him ufortable¡­


    Tong Sang understood her meaning, and replied, ¡°It¡¯s not your fault. I married you so we could live a peaceful life. Clearly, we can¡¯t do that now, so we¡¯re only trying to find a solution.¡±


    If it¡¯s about filial piety, he¡¯s indeed very filial.


    But this matter clearly can¡¯t be solved with filial piety alone.<div>


    Qiao Changshun was very filial, but his filial piety only led to Zhuang Luhe running away.


    He would never allow such a situation to happen to Qiao Xiaomai.@@novelbin@@


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry.¡± Qiao Xiaomai patted his shoulder, ¡°you focus on studying and let me be a schr¡¯s wife for a while.¡±


    Tong Sangughed at her suggestion, ¡°That is absolutely no problem.¡±


    ¡°Then strive hard, young man.¡± Qiao Xiaomai alsoughed.


    Anyway, he still has two months until his township exams, and during this time there should be some good ideas.


    At the entrance to the vige, they parted ways, each returning to their own home.


    As for Hua Xiaofeng¡¯s suggestion to find Zhuang Luhe today, Qiao Xiaomai did not mention it.


    Tong Sang returned home, ground flour, did housework, and read for a while. When it got dark, he began to make noodles.


    He can make mostmon home-cooked dishes, but he couldn¡¯t guarantee the taste.


    After rolling out the noodles, he lit a candle to continue reading.


    It waste when the others finally returned home.


    Aside from Tong Tiehu, Tong Xingda included, everyone looked like they¡¯d been skinned, as if they hade from hell, staggering, struggling even to walk.


    Tong Dng and Li Rou held their sleeping children, their faces numb.


    Under Tong Tiehu¡¯s hardline tactics, they all suffered a lot.


    Tong Sang didn¡¯t say anything in response, and served them cool boiled water, then he lit a fire to cook the noodles.


    By the time the noodles were ready, everyone was so hungry they didn¡¯t care about the taste and gobbled down their food.


    After eating two bowls of noodles, Tong Sang went to find Doctor Wu, and asked him to examine Zhang Family and Zhu Hongyun.


    Doctor Wu had already gone to sleep, but Tong Sang woke him up and brought him over with his medicine box.<div>


    After a lot of fuss, the day finally ended when the moon was high in the sky.


    The next day, everyone in the Tong Family was bedridden.


    Those who do not work for long periods of time and then suddenly do heavy work will suffer from backaches the next day.


    Tong Tiehu with a cold face, woke everyone up.<div>


    They had finished nting the two acres of sweet potatoes, but the vinegar shop could now be opened as usual.


    This is currently the only source of ie for the family.


    Upon hearing this proposal, those who were originally tired and weary all perked up.


    But, Tong Eng raised a doubt first, ¡°Grandfather, will the ie from the vinegar shop still be distributed as before?¡±


    Tong Tiehu red at him, ¡°Those who do not work will not share in the profits.¡±


    Tong Eng got anxious, ¡°But I don¡¯t know how to brew vinegar!¡±


    ¡°There is also work in the fields.¡± Tong Tiehu said.


    ¡°Alright.¡± Tong Eng agreed reluctantly, his face wrinkled like tree bark.


    How terrifying.


    Work is so terrifying.


    Yesterday, he was almost worked to death.


    Tong Tiehu added, ¡°Besides, the vinegar shop won¡¯t be as profitable as before. The town had more people, but here in the vige, it¡¯s only a bit of small change.¡±


    ¡°Even if it¡¯s just a small amount of money, it still needs to be distributed, right?¡± Li Rou, who hadn¡¯t spoken much, couldn¡¯t help but speak up when she heard these words.<div>

 Chapter 498: 498 Waiting for Luhe to Return

    Chapter 498: Waiting for Luhe to Return


    Propose marriage?


    To Qiao Changshun?


    Qiao Xiaomai let out a cold scoff, ¡°Don¡¯t bother yourself with that, my mom just went out to work and make money. Who are you nning to make a marriage proposal to?¡±


    ¡°My ce is not wee to you, leave.¡±


    The Sun Family was taken aback.


    What?


    Go find Zhuang L¨¹he?


    Her eyes widened intorge circles, her face filled with disbelief, ¡°That shameful woman who abandoned her husband and child, why on earth would you seek her out?¡±


    ¡°My mother went out for work, stay out of her business. Get out, we don¡¯t wee you here!¡± Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s face covered with frost.


    Zhuang L¨¹he¡¯s story has always been that she went out to work, and this has never changed.<div>


    When Zhuang L¨¹hees back, the vigers will surely gossip. By that time, she will use these four words ¡®went out to work¡¯ to shut everyone¡¯s mouth.


    Anyway, since no one has seen Zhuang L¨¹he run away, her mother just went out to work. She will not tolerate anyone making wild guesses about her in front of her.


    Now, the Sun Family was making such ims right in front of her.


    She spotted arge broom for sweeping the yard at the entrance of the shed. She walked over in a few steps, picked up the broom and said, ¡°Are you leaving or not?!¡±


    The broom was made of bamboo, about three or four meters long. Only the bamboo sticks remained as all the bamboo leaves had fallen off. The Sun Family had once beaten Zhuang L¨¹he with this kind of broom, leaving her neck and face covered in bloody welts.


    Seeing the broom, the Sun Family couldn¡¯t help but recall the old days. Upon seeing Qiao Xiaomai pick up the broom, she stood up reflexively.


    But she didn¡¯t leave, instead she walked over and stood behind Qiao Changshun.


    She let Qiao Changshun shield her, only half of her body was exposed, her face wore an ¡®I mean well¡¯ expression, and she said, ¡°Xiaomai, we all know what your mother has been doing. Over the years, your father, you, and Dami have not wronged her in any way. And yet, she just abandoned you all to elope with another man, do you really want to find her and bring her back?!¡±


    ¡°Stop your nonsense! My mom went out to work! We¡¯ve severed ties with you and you still smear her name. Sun Family, are you deliberately trying to make us miserable?¡± Qiao Xiaomai, holding the big broom, stomped against Qiao Changshun, her small face filled with rage, ¡°Dad, get out of the way!¡±


    At this point, Qiao Changshun had already recovered his senses. Gazing at the furious Qiao Xiaomai, he instinctively spread his arms out in a blocking gesture, ¡°Xiaomai, don¡¯t do anything silly.¡±


    ¡°Who¡¯s acting stupid?!¡± Seeing that Qiao Changshun was actually protecting the Sun Family, Xiaomai, who was pretending to be angry initially, was genuinely mad now. She raised her voice, ¡°Did you hear what she was talking about? Do you really want to propose marriage?!¡±


    ¡°Where did my mom wrong you over these years? It¡¯s you who failed to protect her! She¡¯s just gone out to work, but you let the Sun Family nder her name?!¡±


    Truth be told, over the years, Zhuang L¨¹he hasn¡¯t done anything wrong to Qiao Changshun.


    Even if she eloped with another man, Qiao Changshun had no right to criticize her.


    The only person she had wronged was Qiao Dami and Xiaomai. As a mother, she left when her two children needed her the most. This was a scar that could never be erased in their lifetime.


    Upon hearing Xiaomai¡¯s words, Qiao Changshun quickly shook his head, ¡°No, she¡¯s old, if yoush out on her and something happens, what would you do?¡±


    ¡°I also have no intention of proposing marriage!¡±


    After he finished speaking, he turned to look at the Sun Family, ¡°Mother, you should go home, I will wait for Luhe to return.¡±


    Upon hearing this, the Sun Family couldn¡¯t help but jab him with her finger, cursing loudly, ¡°You idiot! She has been tainted by men. The green hat you¡¯re wearing is even greener than the leaves on the willow tree in your yard! You¡¯re lucky that such a woman hasn¡¯t been thrown into a pigsty, and you still want to continue living with her? Has your brain been kicked by a donkey?!¡±<div>

 Chapter 499: 499: If You Have the Guts, Sue Me

    Chapter 499: If You Have the Guts, Sue Me


    ¡°I wronged her, she was upset and left, I don¡¯t me her.¡± Qiao Changshun¡¯s face was full of sorrow.


    Qiao Xiaomai was right just now, it was he who failed to protect Zhuang Luhe, not Zhuang Luhe who had wronged him.


    Upon hearing this, Sun raised her eyebrows. One hand on her hip and the other hand holding a fan, she yelled at Qiao Changshun, ¡°What about right and wrong?! She¡¯s a woman who chose to marry you. What¡¯s wrong with suffering a bit? All the women in this vige have to endure hardships, don¡¯t they? Why aren¡¯t they all running away?!¡±


    ¡°Your father was ill back then, and I led you brothers through hard times, and I never ran away?!¡±


    ¡°Zhuang Luhe is just a despicable woman who can¡¯t take a bit of hardship! Now, she¡¯s still a despicable woman who¡¯s been defiled by another man! Bringing such a person into our household is a disgrace to the Qiao family!¡±


    Qiao Changshun hung his head in shame, ¡°Mother, please don¡¯t say anymore, please leave.¡±


    ¡°Leave? I¡¯m telling you, if you dare to go find her, I¡¯ll dare to report her to the County Government Office! That such a disgraceful woman who¡¯s been defiled by another man dares to step foot in the Qiao¡¯s house again, she must be out of her mind! Abandoning her husband and child, such a despicable woman deserves to be drowned in a pig cage!¡±


    Sun revealed her shrill and harsh side, her loud voice ringing in everyone¡¯s ears, with saliva flying and a ferocious look on her face.


    Qiao Changshun panicked on hearing this, could the county magistrate really handle such matters?


    Qiao Xiaomai snorted and retorted, ¡°Go ahead and report her, Sun, I¡¯d like to see how the county magistrate will rule. There¡¯s no such thing in the ¡®Daqi Law¡¯!¡±<div>


    The previous dynasty took elopement as a serious crime; both men and women had to be punished.


    Males were to be expelled from their families, theirnds and properties confiscated, and they would also be beaten harshly.


    The punishment for women was even harsher. Those who eloped would be concubines, and they were regarded as outcasts by their parents and all citizens. Most of them would either be beaten to death or drowned after being caught.


    But Daqi was different.


    The ¡®Daqi Laws¡¯ did not have any provisions regarding elopement. ording to Tong Sang, if such an event urred, it would be handled by the family itself.


    But now, the Qiao family could hardly be called a family, and even if it was a family, Qiao Xiaomai would make sure to separate herself from it.


    So, everything Sun said at the moment was nonsense to her.


    Seeing her fearless attitude, Sun stomped her foot in anger. What¡¯s the matter? Does the government office ignore such things now?


    Uncertain about what to do, she decided to put this issue aside and ask Sun Junyan when she got home. She spoke to the point, ¡°I thought you were smart, but why are you being so stupid now? Zhuang Luhe doesn¡¯t want you anymore, she nearly caused you to be sold!¡±


    ¡°As a good mother, she should have let herself be sold instead of letting you get sold!¡±


    Upon hearing this, Qiao Xiaomai sneered, ¡°Sun, you are the one who wanted to sell me. You wanted to sell me to a brothel.¡±


    ¡°I was thinking about your father then. If I didn¡¯t sell you, should I have sold the house? Should I have let your father work as aborer with hisme leg? Failure to pay taxes means performing hardbor!¡±


    ¡°Stop trying to make yourself look good!¡± Qiao Xiaomai was getting impatient with her. She waved the broom in her hand, ¡°Are you leaving or not?¡±


    Sun red at the broom for a moment, stomped her foot helplessly, and then reached out to grab Qiao Changshun¡¯s arm, ¡°Changshun, walk me out!¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t go!¡± Qiao Xiaomai intervened immediately upon seeing this.


    Qiao Changshun sighed, he handed the clothes in his hand to Qiao Zhaodi next to him, ¡°Xiaomai, calm down, let me talk to her properly about this.¡±

 Chapter 468: 468: How Many Bad Things Have You Said About Me Before?

    Chapter 468: How Many Bad Things Have You Said About Me Before?


    Previously, whenever Zhu Cuiying visited Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s house, her small, mung bean-like eyes were always sizing up the three-tiled rooms with malignant intent, and her face was stered with insatiable greed.


    Now the situation had changed. On this visit, her pockmarked face was full of smiles. She sat properly, her eyes not straying around, ¡°Xiaomai, your brother Dazhu¡¯s new house is finished. I¡¯m nning on hosting a banquet to celebrate it tomorrow; make sure toe.¡±


    To build the new house for Qiao Dazhu, Zhu Cuiying had previously borrowed five taels of silver from Qiao Xiaomai


    Last time when the spring tax was due, Qiao Changkang and his wife Wu Yinfeng, in an attempt to muzzle Zhu Cuiying and Qiao Changfu, gave them ten taels.


    With fifteen taels of silver, in the countryside, one could build a decent house.


    After more than a month, Zhu Cuiying and Qiao Changfu had built three tiled rooms, identical to theyout of Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s house.


    ¡°The new house is finished? When is brother Dazhu getting married?¡± Qiao Xiaomai asked.


    ¡°It¡¯s done, it¡¯s done. We¡¯ve agreed to wait until after the autumn harvest when we¡¯ll have some spare time for a proper ceremony.¡± Zhu Cuiying answered with a face full of smiles.


    ¡°Who¡¯s going tomorrow?¡± Qiao Xiaomai asked again.


    ¡°Just rtives and the Vige Chief.¡±<div>


    Qiao Xiaomai gave a long ¡°Oh¡± in response, without indicating whether she would or wouldn¡¯t go.


    She asked with a smirk, ¡°Auntie, you used to always visit the second daughter-inw of the Vige Chief¡¯s family, what did you two talk about?¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡± The topic took a sharp turn, leaving Zhu Cuiying stunned.


    Once she understood what Qiao Xiaomai was actually asking, her smile froze on her face.


    What did they talk about?


    Gossiping all about Qiao Xiaomai, of course!


    At that time, because of the nickname Qiao Fox that had been given to Qiao Xiaomai, she and the Sun family were anxious that Tong Sang might take a liking to Qiao Xiaomai. She saw an opportunity because she came from the same vige as Zhu Hongyun¡¯s mother and spared no effort in badmouthing Qiao Xiaomai during her visits.


    It seems that she was quite sessful with her nders at that time.


    Both Zhu Hongyun and the Zhang family had a terrible impression of Qiao Xiaomai before they had any direct contact with her.


    Later, when Tong Tiehu and Tong Sang both sided with Qiao Xiaomai, this only worsened the Zhang family and Zhu Hongyun¡¯s impressions of her, even leading to a feud.


    Everything was progressing the way she hoped, but right now, Zhu Cuiying just wanted to cry.


    She had realised the importance of Qiao Xiaomai, and as such, hade over eagerly to curry favour with her and build rtions, but now Xiaomai was bringing up the past and settling old scores!


    She took a moment to think, then raised her hand and pped herself hard, apologizing with a smile, ¡°Xiaomai, I was blinded by ignorance in the past and made many mistakes. I¡¯m sorry, please forgive me!¡±


    After saying this, she pped herself again.


    With a loud ¡°smack¡±, she¡¯d hit herself hard enough that her cheeks quickly swelled up.


    Seeing this, Xiaomai¡¯s lips curled up into a soft smile, ¡°Auntie, what good will pping yourself do? Most importantly, you have to make amends.¡±


    ¡°Ah? How do I make amends?¡± Zhu Cuiying asked, enduring the pain.


    ¡°For all the ill words spoken in the past, you should now speak just as many kind words.¡± Xiaomai suggested, a yful eyebrow raised.


    ¡°Yes, yes, yes!¡± Zhu quickly agreed, nodding fervently like a pecking chicken.<div>


    This was simple enough. It was just praising her. She¡¯d definitely praise Xiaomai to the skies!


    ¡°Auntie, I¡¯ll be waiting to see your results.¡± Xiaomai added, still smiling.


    On hearing this, Zhu Cuiying held her breath and asked cautiously, ¡°What results?¡±


    ¡°The change in your attitude towards me.¡± Xiaomai did not hide her thoughts.@@novelbin@@<div>


    Upon hearing this, Zhu Cuiying blinked her small, green eyes, understanding a bit but also a bit confused.

 Chapter 469: 469: Tian Duos Troubles

    Chapter 469: Tian Duo¡¯s Troubles


    After considering the current situation between Qiao Xiaomai and the Tong Family, Zhu Cuiying hatched a n in her mind, ¡°Xiaomai, don¡¯t worry, I will definitely take back all the loose talk that I let out before!¡±


    Upon hearing this, Qiao Xiaomai chuckled a few times, ¡°Then I shall visit Dazhu¡¯s new house tomorrow.¡±


    Zhu Cuiying was delighted upon hearing this, ¡°Great!¡±


    In any case, she was determined to develop a good rtionship with Qiao Xiaomai!@@novelbin@@


    Retracting words spoken before? She was ready to swallow them all back if necessary!


    After seeing Zhu Cuiying off, Qiao Xiaomai began to prepare lunch.


    Reflecting on Zhu Cuiying¡¯s attitude earlier, she felt a bit emotional.


    This is the power of money and influence. It could make a person p their own face and even retract the idle talk they had previously spewed.


    She must hold onto these two powerful legs of the emperor and Yang Ye firmly!


    In the afternoon, Miao Dali led people to transport bricks to the slope. Qiao Xiaomai went over with her cart. By the time she returned home, the people who hade to work that day had just returned.<div>


    She took out the money and paid everyone for today¡¯s work and also mentioned her ns to build a manor. She offered to pay anyone who was free to help out at the construction.


    By building a manor at this time, on one hand, she hoped to fulfill her rural life fantasy, on the other hand, she aimed to disy her wealth, to unt it.


    To unt her wealth, she needed vigers who came to work to spread this news around, so that the Tong Family could hear about it as quickly as possible.


    As she hoped, all the vigers were surprised to hear that she wanted to build a manor.


    The blue-brick house where Qiao Xiaomai currently lived was already very good. And now she was nning to build a manor. She was really rich!


    Qiao Xiaomai put on a troubled expression as she exined, ¡°I don¡¯t really have a choice. I have so much farnd. I can¡¯t sell all the crops I harvest. I need a ce to store them.¡±


    ¡°The harvest season isn¡¯t far away. If I don¡¯t build now, I would have to sell the sweet potatoes, soybeans, sesame, etc. once they¡¯re harvested.¡±


    ¡°Isn¡¯t selling them for cash good?¡± Du Qing¡¯ai chimed in.


    She happened to be there as well today.


    ¡°Of course not. I was nning to use the winter season to experiment with some new recipes. If I sell everything, I¡¯ll have to buy from the townter. That would be troublesome,¡± Qiao Xiaomai exined seriously.


    ¡°Ah, that makes sense. With your cooking skills, you really should experiment more,¡± Du Qing¡¯ai agreed and jokingly added, ¡°Xiaomai, you really should do more research. You, the first wealthy girl, should help our entire vige to be wealthy.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s farnd employed people every day. After the vigers finish their own chores, they could work in her fields nearby instead of going to the town. They could return home anytime if they needed, and their wages were paid daily, making them very stable.


    This job was quite ideal for the vigers of Anping Vige.


    The more ideas Qiao Xiaomai came up with, the more people she needed for work, meaning everyone could earn their daily wages, which was pretty good.


    And working for Qiao Xiaomai actually provided benefits. For instance, at present, they could enjoy delicious sour plum soup after finishing their daily work.


    Such delicious sour plum soup could easily sell for two wen per bowl if it were to be sold in the market!


    Upon hearing this, Qiao Xiaomai nodded with a smile, ¡°No problem. In these few days, I n to nt fruit trees on those three slopes. If any of you are free, you could continue working here.¡±


    ¡°nt fruit trees?¡±


    ¡°Yes, once they bear fruit, I will sell them cheaply to you all.¡±<div>


    ¡°Wow, that sounds great. I¡¯m already craving for fruits, my mouth is watering.¡± Du Qing¡¯aiughed.


    The other people also started discussing.


    There were wild fruits in the mountains, but they didn¡¯t taste good.


    If Qiao Xiaomai were to sell fruits at a low price, they could buy some on their way home from work, which would be quite nice.<div>


    Previously, when she sold bean sprouts, Qiao Xiaomai had provided discounts for these workers.

 Chapter 470: 470: A Bunch of Fools

    Chapter 470: A Bunch of Fools


    ¡°Xiaomai, we will be waiting to buy your fruit by then.¡± Du Qing¡¯ai said.


    Qiao Xiaomai responded crisply, ¡°I promise I won¡¯t cheat my fellow vigers, everyone look forward to eating sweet fruit!¡±


    After sending these people away, Qiao Xiaomai carried their money basket into the house and then went into the kitchen to prepare dinner.


    After dinner, the day passed quickly.


    In the evening, Tong Sang came for a visit. Qiao Xiaomai told him about the University President Gu visiting their secret tunnel with his students, then they started to chat idly.


    Tong Sang went hunting in the mountains today and exchanged his spoils for twenty taels of silver, which he used to buy two acres ofnd.


    He was to continue nting sweet potatoes tomorrow.


    ¡°Wow, will they rebel if you keep tormenting them like this?¡± Qiao Xiaomai couldn¡¯t help but mention how miserable the Tong family members looked the day before.


    ¡°There¡¯s nothing we can do. Grandfather has made up his mind to torment them.¡± Tong Sang felt really helpless about this.


    Tong Tiehu could be stubborn, and also his simple and crude way of doing things had led to the Tong family¡¯s current predicament.<div>


    Qiao Xiaomai clicked her tongue a few times, silently lighting a candle in her heart for these people.


    Fools, all of them. Short-sighted as a mouse.


    With just the hunting skills of Tong Sang, the Tong family could return to their former glory in a heartbeat.


    So, if they could endure this difficult period, everyone could continue living a good life.


    And these idiots?


    They couldn¡¯t endure a single day of hardship.


    In order to protect their purses, they tried every trick in the book, and their methods were both stupid and ugly.


    Was it necessary?


    They could only see Tong Sang¡¯s hunting skills but failed to see the good life hidden behind these skills.


    Well, fortunately, Tong Sang didn¡¯t follow these people.


    ¡°I¡¯m going to deliver Sour Plum Soup to the Construction Team tomorrow, you cane with.¡± Qiao Xiaomai said.


    In the past, it was Egg Flower Soup, now it was Sour Plum Soup, both were cheap and effective ways of minor good deeds.


    ¡°We¡¯ll see.¡± Tong Sang didn¡¯t give a definite answer.


    Though he saw his family as foolish too, if these people were suffering under the scorching sun while he was enjoying, he couldn¡¯t get past that barrier in his heart.


    Forget about his two elder brothers, his grandparents and parents were all in real hardship!


    Qiao Xiaomai understood his thought process, rolled her eyes and didn¡¯t press further.


    The two chatted for a while, and when it waste at night, each went back to sleep.


    The next day, around midday, Qiao Xiaomai made two pots of Sour Plum Soup and sent it to the Construction Team. Tong Sang still hadn¡¯t emerged when she came back to the vige in an ox cart.


    What a foolish kid!<div>


    The day passed quickly, and in the evening, she, Qiao Changsun and Qiao Dami went to Qiao Dazhu¡¯s new house for the banquet.


    She had a good impression of Qiao Dazhu, so she brought a roll of brocade as a gift.


    When the three of them arrived, others were already there.


    Qiao Qinghe and Qiao Meipan, Zhao Shufen and Qiao Xiaobao, and the family of Qiao Changkang.<div>


    Seeing Zhao Shufen, Qiao Xiaomai did not feel awkward, she acted as if she didn¡¯t see her and greeted the others.


    Zhao Shufen and her son Qiao Xiaobao didn¡¯t speak, they just buried their heads and ate.


    Being a widow with a young son, their lives were tough. Now that they had a chance to enjoy a banquet, they naturally ate more.


    Because of this, they ended up even sharing a table with Qiao Changkang and his wife Wu Yinfeng.


    ¡°Grandfather, how have you been recently?¡± Qiao Xiaomai asked.


    ¡°I¡¯m fine.¡± Qiao Qinghe, who looked older than before, replied. All of their 30 acres were being worked by him alone, making him much thinner than before.


    ¡°Grandfather, do you want me to find someone to help you?¡± Qiao Xiaomai stared at his aged face for a few moments and sincerely offered.


    ¡°No need.¡± Qiao Qinghe shook his head.


    What¡¯s a bit of hardship to him?


    Qiao Changsun¡¯s family had been living like this for over ten years.@@novelbin@@


    A bit of hardship was good, it made him feel at ease.

 Chapter 471: 471: Zhu Cuiyings Idea

    Chapter 471: Zhu Cuiying¡¯s Idea


    ¡°Xiaomai, it¡¯s not that I don¡¯t want to help your grandfather, it¡¯s that he doesn¡¯t allow it,¡± Zhu Cuiying replied hastily upon hearing her words.


    Ever since Sun Family had beaten them upst time when paying taxes, Zhu Cuiying and Qiao Changfu started to help Qiao Qinghe with work again. But Qiao Qinghe refused, which put them in a difficult position.


    Sun Family even came to scold them again.


    They felt aggrieved.


    Qiao Xiaomai and Sun Family were both pressing them to help Qiao Qinghe, but he didn¡¯t allow it. So what could they do?


    Upon hearing this, Qiao Xiaomai gave her a nce and said, ¡°Can my grandpa really stop both of you? If you really wanted to help, you could have gone to the east field when grandpa went to the west today. Must you follow grandpa wherever he goes?¡±


    Zhu Cuiying was left speechless¡­


    They dared not work without Qiao Qinghe. If he wasn¡¯t aware that they were the ones helping, wouldn¡¯t their kind offer go unnoticed?


    ¡°Alright, let¡¯s eat.¡± Seeing Zhu Cuiying had nothing to say, Qiao Qinghe broke the silence.


    What¡¯s the point of such a family, each wearing a mask of hypocrisy?<div>


    ¡°Grandpa, you don¡¯t have to torture yourself like this, really, the past is the past,¡± Qiao Xiaomai said.


    Compared to the rest of the Qiao Family, Qiao Qinghe was indeed good.


    Therefore, she didn¡¯t mind what had happened in the past, and is willing to lend a hand to Qiao Qinghe now.


    ¡°No need,¡± Qiao Qinghe shook his head, ¡°Sun Junyan can help.¡±


    Sun Junyan was still working for Cen Hong.


    Cen Hong had be the county magistrate of Huai¡¯an County, and Sun Junyan often followed him to do misceneous chores.


    Cen Hong also didn¡¯t treat Sun Junyan poorly, and gave him quite a few taels of silver.


    Sun Junyan gave all the silver to Qiao Qinghe, saying, ¡°Dad, I once said that when I be sessful, I would provide for you. I am keeping my word.¡±


    But Qiao Qinghe didn¡¯t take a penny and threw all the money back in Sun Junyan¡¯s face.@@novelbin@@


    He considered himself as not having a son like Sun Junyan.


    Though Qiao Qinghe disowned him, Sun Junyan didn¡¯t mind and often brought home things to show his filial piety.


    ¡°If I need help, I¡¯ll ask Sun Junyan. You don¡¯t have to worry,¡± Qiao Qinghe said again.


    ¡°How is he doing now?¡± Qiao Xiaomai asked.


    ¡°He¡¯s working for General Cen.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai let out a long ¡°Oh,¡± before saying, ¡°That¡¯s good.¡±


    At this, Qiao Qinghe smiled, ¡°Enough about him, let¡¯s eat.¡±


    ¡°Okay, okay, let¡¯s eat.¡± Qiao Xiaomai also startedughing and picked up her chopsticks.


    At the dinner table, Zhu Cuiying and Wu Yinfeng said plenty of pleasing words, and all Qiao Xiaomai did wasugh and asionally respond. The star of the meal was supposed to be Qiao Dazhu, who was about to get married, but everyone seemed to ignore him.


    Qiao Dazhu didn¡¯t seem to mind and quietly ate his meal.<div>


    Qiao Ying and Qiao Meipan both kept their heads down and quietly ate their meals.


    In the past, they had bullied Qiao Xiaomai a lot, especially Qiao Meipan, who had followed the Sun Family to Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s home to plunder several times.


    In just a few short months, Qiao Xiaomai had trampled everyone in Anping Vige, bing the most important person in the vige.


    Yes, she didn¡¯t just step on the maidens and the young women, she stepped on everyone.<div>


    Under these circumstances, they naturally had to keep their heads down.


    With no one causing trouble, the meal was quite harmonious.


    After the meal, just as Qiao Xiaomai was about to go home with Qiao Changshun and Qiao Dami, Zhu Cuiying stopped her.


    ¡°Wait, Xiaomai, I have something to tell you.¡±


    After contemting over Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s words yesterday, she immediately went to the Tong Family.


    She proposed to Tong Sang.

 Chapter 472: 472: No Girl Dares to Marry Tong Sanlang Anymore

    Chapter 472: No Girl Dares to Marry Tong Sang Anymore


    Zhu Cuiying¡¯s eyes and heart were not blinded. She observed the interaction between Qiao Xiaomai and Tong Sang and formed her own thoughts about it.


    As she pondered on Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s words based on this thought, the situation became clear to her quickly.


    Qiao Xiaomai intended to marry Tong Sang, but she was facing resistance.


    Or more urately said, Qiao Xiaomai was apprehensive about the Zhang Family and Zhu Hongyun.


    She med herself, considering how she had bombarded Zhu Hongyun with all those negative remarks about Qiao Xiaomai. Now, she had to make up for this to secure her rtionship with Qiao Xiaomai.@@novelbin@@


    When she went back home, she deliberated earnestly about this situation. Eventually, she came up with a solution: to propose a marriage to Tong Sang.


    Zhang Family and Zhu Hongyun might have a deep-seated prejudice against Qiao Xiaomai, but Qiao Xiaomai had undeniable status as the top figure in Anping Vige. She would use this marriage proposition to provoke Zhu Hongyun and the Zhang Family.


    Last night, she visited Zhu Hongyun again and subtly probed her opinions on Qiao Xiaomai.


    Zhu Hongyun was feeling frustrated these days and, given the prompt, vented out all her grievances unceasingly.


    Having confirmed Zhu Hongyun¡¯s standpoint, she revealed her true intention. ¡°If you dislike Qiao Xiaomai so much, how about letting Sang marry my daughter Ying?¡±<div>


    ¡°Huh?¡± Zhu Hongyun was taken aback.


    ¡°My Ying might not be as beautiful as Qiao Xiaomai, but she is caring, obedient, and would never dare to talk back to her elders. Sang is not getting any younger. You can¡¯t expect him to wait forever, can you?¡±


    ¡°Hmm?¡± Zhu Hongyun furrowed her brows.


    Marry Tong Sang to Qiao Ying?


    How could that be possible!


    Considering Zhu Hongyun¡¯s living conditions, it was certain that it would be like inviting burdens into her home.


    Their home was already too poor. If they brought another burden, wouldn¡¯t they be even poorer?


    Besides, Qiao Ying was a sly girl. If she really marries into their family, she would definitely incite Sang to drift apart from them.


    Right now, Sang was willing to help them. But once Qiao Ying gets married here, then in the future, the money that Sang makes from hunting may all go into Qiao Ying¡¯s purse.


    Moreover, Sang is skilled in Kung Fu, he could easily prepare a private meal for Qiao Ying!


    Seeing her reaction, Zhu Cuiying chuckled inwardly while tried to make her reason, ¡°What¡¯s wrong? You don¡¯t like my Ying? Hongyun, let me tell you, right now your family assets are confiscated, and you are somehow descendants of a none-to-be-named Wang, this is something you have stirred up, and in the eyes of ordinary people, it¡¯s a big issue. ¡±


    ¡°If the Emperor takes notice of this in the future and issues a decree against you, your family is done for.¡±


    ¡°Under such circumstances, which girl would willingly leap into this firepit? Only my Ying, with her deep affection and loyalty to Sang, is willing to take this risk and marry into your family.¡± Zhu Cuiying painstakingly tried to help Zhu Hongyun see the reality.


    Being descendants of rebels whose assets were confiscated by the Emperor, if it weren¡¯t for the fact that Tong Tiehu was still the Vige Chief, people in the vige would¡¯ve cut ties with the Tong Family long ago.


    Under these circumstances, no matter how outstanding Tong Sang is, very few girls would dare to marry him.


    Their home was in such a state and they were still in a fantasy, tut.


    Zhu Hongyun¡¯s face darkened as she listened to this, ¡°My grandfather said as long as we live quietly and cause no trouble, the Emperor will not harm us.¡±


    ¡°Oh girl, your family knows that, but outsiders don¡¯t know, to them your family is just like what I just described, no girl dares to marry into your family anymore! Sang is not getting any younger, you don¡¯t really want him to stay single for the rest of his life, do you?¡±


    <div>

 Chapter 473: 473: Comparisons are Odious

    Chapter 473: Comparisons are Odious


    ¡°My daughter, Yingying, is young, she can wait for another year. But if she grows older and your Tong Family miss out on her, it¡¯s not me spoiling things for you, your third son will really be unmarriageable.¡±


    ¡°Even if he can get married, the circumstances will definitely not measure up to those of my Yingying.¡±


    As these words came out, Zhu Hongyun¡¯s face visibly changed.


    Never to marry in his life?


    That¡¯s not possible, getting married is a must.


    But if he dys and even can¡¯t get a girl like Qiao Ying¡­


    Qiao Ying is already a burden, would he then have to marry a penniless girl?


    No way!


    She huffed, ¡± Isn¡¯t there still Qiao Xiaomai? Xiaomai is keen on marrying the third son.¡±


    Finally, the conversation hade to Xiaomai.<div>


    Zhu Cuiying took a breath in her heart and said sternly, ¡°My dear, you¡¯re wrong about that. While it¡¯s true that Xiaomai does interact more closely with the third son, she never said she intends to marry him. Now listen, dear, I used to say a lot of unpleasant things about Xiaomai, but the situation has changed.¡±


    ¡°Xiaomai has cooked for the Emperor Emeritus, she is well acquainted with two princes and they dine at her house every day, everyone in the vige knows how close their rtionship is. She can have any young master in the whole of Huai¡¯an County at her beck and call if she wishes!¡±


    At her words, Zhu Hongyun¡¯s face turned pale, ¡°Cut it out! Her? Choose anyone in Huai¡¯an County?¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s stopping her from picking anyone in Huai¡¯an County? Tell me why she can¡¯t?¡± Zhu Cuiying countered.


    Zhu Hongyun,¡±Isn¡¯t she just a country girl? she¡­.¡±


    She could not continue.


    She had seen the familiarity between Yang Ye, Yang Wang and Xiaomai, as close as she was chatting with Zhu Cuiying at the moment, without a trace of distance.


    Although she wasn¡¯t present to witness the tax collection day at the threshing field, she heard about it afterward. Yang Ye vowed to protect Xiaomai and Yang Wang showed an extraordinary concern for her.


    She had also seen Xiaomai¡¯s interactions with the Emperor Emeritus.


    The Dean of the Grain Institute was happy to see Xiaomai.


    Even the Eunuch next to the Emperor Emeritus was amicable towards Xiaomai.


    And the county magistrate, who upon seeing Xiaomai, his face bloomed like a chrysanthemum flower.


    The Emperor Emeritus, the two princes, the Dean, and the County Magistrate.


    Each one more prestigious thanst, yet somehow, Xiaomai is well-liked by all of them.


    Is there anyone in the entire Huai¡¯an County more honourable than these people?


    If there isn¡¯t, then why can¡¯t Xiaomai choose anyone in Huai¡¯an County?@@novelbin@@


    At this moment, Zhu Cuiying added, ¡°Ah, not only does Xiaomai have connections with influential people, but she also knows how to make money.¡±


    ¡°In just a few months after her mother¡¯s departure, she alone has umted a considerable amount of wealth. Five hundred acres ofnd, more than your family¡¯s estate. Just selling vegetable recipes alone brought her an incredible amount of silver.¡±


    ¡°Tell me, how many girls have you seen who can make this much money?¡±<div>


    Zhu Hongyun ¡°¡­¡±


    Before meeting Xiaomai, she had never even heard of such a story.


    Seeing her silence, Zhu Cuiying pressed on, ¡°Tell me, we farmers make money through toiling tirelessly in the fields just to get by. But for her, cooking a meal brings in heaps of silver. Ah,paring people to people, it¡¯s almost unbearable!¡±


    Zhu Hongyun ¡°¡­¡±<div>


    Thinking of her own ordeal growing sweet potatoes, she couldn¡¯t help but grit her teeth.


    Comparing oneself to others certainly can be frustrating!

 Chapter 506: 506: Stay Tonight

    Chapter 506: Stay Tonight


    Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s period had been irregr for several months, and she would feel pain in her abdomen whenever it came.


    However,pared to the fainting pain she felt the first time, the present pain was entirely bearable.


    But herplexion remained pale, and she appeared listless.


    Seeing Qiao Changshun¡¯s face, which resembled a dried tree bark, she handed over the cooking responsibilities to him.


    After lying in bed for a day, Tong Sang came in the evening. He brought with him three vine branches over a meter long, which he said could serve as sticks and were tenacious. He had found them in the virgin forest near Rooster Mountain.


    Seeing Qiao Xiaomai¡¯sckadaisical face, he scrunched his eyebrows, questioning, ¡°The spiritual spring water, why isn¡¯t it effective at all?¡±


    ¡°The spiritual spring water can only improve the quality of meals, it has no health benefits,¡± Xiaomai replied as she took out the pendant shaped like a water droplet.


    She and Tong Sang spected that this pendant could be connected to her space.


    But this pendant had been in her space for quite a few days, and no changes had urred.


    No changes in the pendant meant no change in her space as well.<div>


    ¡°Hmm¡­ I heard that things might improve after getting married?¡± Tong Sang hesitated for a moment but eventually spoke his mind.


    Upon hearing this, Xiaomai raised an eyebrow and threw the pendant back into her space, ¡°Where did you hear that from?¡±


    ¡°I heard it from Doctor Wu.¡± Tong Sang answered honestly.


    Xiaomai was taken aback, ¡°You actually asked him that?¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s nothing to be embarrassed about.¡± Tong Sang responded calmly.


    Xiaomai let out an amused sound, and then she startedughing. She stood up and sat on Tong Sang¡¯sp, her arms wrapped around his neck, ¡°Hey, young man, I can¡¯t bear to let you go. Why don¡¯t you stay tonight?¡±


    ¡°Hmm?¡± Tong Sang was stunned, and his eyes instantly widened.


    ¡°My stomach hurts. Sleep while hugging me,¡± Xiaomai whispered in his ear.


    The warm breath from her words tickled Tong Sang¡¯s neck, arousing goosebumps all over his body.


    He stiffened, his mind in disarray, ¡°Is this¡­ against tradition¡­¡±


    Their nightly ndestine meetings were already a vition of traditional teachings. Now lying together on the same bed, sleeping in each other¡¯s arms¡­


    Isn¡¯t this¡­ inappropriate?


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong with that? We¡¯re just chatting under the sheets,¡± Xiaomai said, squirming in his embrace, ¡°Now we¡¯re hugging as usual, just that the venue changed from the stool to the bed.¡±


    ¡°Kick out all those feudalistic rituals from your mind, tonight, listen to me.¡±


    Xiaomai actually hadn¡¯t nned this, but Tong Sang was just too warm and gentle.


    So warm that she couldn¡¯t bear him leaving.


    Tonight, listen to me.


    These five words seemed to possess some magical power, upon hearing them, Tong Sang felt himself losing control over his own body.


    He was like a soulless puppet being led by Qiao Xiaomai into her room, taking off his shoes and getting into bed.<div>


    Then, he held her petite, warm body in his arms.


    With Qiao Xiaomai snuggled against his side, she grabbed one of hisrge hands and ced it on her stomach, and swiftly fell asleep.


    Tong Sang ¡°¡­¡±


    Listening to the constant, rhythmic breathing in his ear and inhaling the faint scent from her body, his heart softened like a cloud and floated in the sky.<div>


    He floated there all night, unable to close his eyes or change his position.


    As daylight approached, he couldn¡¯t bear to, but woke up Qiao Xiaomai.


    He had to go back, Qiao Changshun always woke up very early, and anyter would risk their secret being discovered.

 Chapter 475: 475: High-Profile Students

    Chapter 475: High-Profile Students


    Today, the Principal and his entourage were far from low-key. The academy was taking a holiday, and they each rode in their luxurious horse-drawn carriages, forming a procession stretching dozens of meters long.


    When this procession entered the vige, it attracted countless onlookers.


    Even though they had already seen the grand procession of the supreme emperor, in the countryside, where there was little entertainment, any novelty was always a wee sight.


    The procession entered the vige and headed straight for the mountain.


    Once they arrived at the foot of the mountain, these horse carriages came to a stop.


    Only walking was possible up the hill, so students left their luxurious carriages behind and, guided by the Principal and Tiehu, began to make their way up the mountain.


    After the students ascended the slope, their coachmen remained to tend to the carriages.


    Leaving only a few to mind the carriages, the rest of the coachmen headed straight for Xiaomai¡¯s house.


    When Principal had discussed this matter with Xiaomai beforehand, he mentioned that there would only be a little over ten students visiting, yet dozens showed up that day, so a heads up had to be given to Xiaomai.


    ¡°Miss Xiaomai, we¡¯re here to help,¡± said Fan Jia¡¯s coachman, Fan Er, starting the conversation with a broad grin. ¡°There are more people than expected from the academy today, so the principal asked us to find you and suggested holding a bigger banquet. Look, we¡¯ve brought all the ingredients ourselves.¡±<div>


    Xiaomai was speechless.


    Originally, only a dozen or so people were supposed toe, yet dozens of students showed up in the end.


    Add to that the students¡¯ servants and coachmen, and we¡¯re talking about over a hundred people!


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Miss Xiaomai, all you need to do is cook. We¡¯ll take care of everything else,¡± Fan Er added promptly, reading Xiaomai¡¯s dumbfounded look.


    The others heard this, nodded, and added, ¡°That¡¯s right. Be it butchering, washing, chopping, or setting up the table, we¡¯ll handle it all. All you need to do is cook, Miss Xiaomai.¡±


    ¡°Also, this is for you, for your troubles today. We hope you¡¯ll ept it,¡± said Fan Er, pulling out two banknotes from his pocket.


    They were for a hundred taels each, totaling two hundred taels.


    Xiaomai smiled and said, ¡°Master Fan, you are very generous. Please, everyone,e in.¡±


    With that, she took the banknotes from him.


    She had originally only prepared enough food for a little more than ten people, spending less than fifty taels on ingredients. Now, Fan Jia had given her two hundred taels. It was quite a deal.


    Besides, all these people were either rich or high-ranking. She was only a vige girl.


    With everyone being so respectful to her, she naturally had to return the favor with a cheerful disposition.


    And so the bustling preparations began.


    The meat was butchered, the vegetables cleaned and chopped.


    Xiaomai was directing the operations, marinating this, mixing that.


    Two pots weren¡¯t enough, so they quickly set up a makeshift stove.


    Some others brought over tables and chairs. There was a dedicated set of tables and chairs stored in the vige for banquets.


    After arranging over ten tables in front of Xiaomai¡¯s house, they opened theirrge umbres for shade and quickly transformed the front of Xiaomai¡¯s house.


    By the time the group came down the mountain at noon, the banquet for more than ten tables was all set.@@novelbin@@<div>


    The students had seen the secret tunnel. They didn¡¯t know how it was constructed, but being able to see such a spectacle was enough to satisfy them.


    The satisfied students sat down at the tables and tasted the delicious food, making them even more content.


    Previously, when Xiaomai disyed her cooking skills at Bailu Academy, the aroma had drifted across the entire training field, waking the appetite in everyone.


    However, because the food was meant for people of high status, they were only able to smell it but not taste it.<div>


    Now, they could finally taste these delicious dishes!


    Moreover, Xiaomai hade up with many new dishes to entertain the supreme emperor.


    The food was absolutely delicious!

 Chapter 508: 508: Qiao Changshuns toughness: Im telling you!

    Chapter 508: Qiao Changshun¡¯s toughness: I¡¯m telling you!


    Qiao Changshun boldly stood his ground for once, leaving everyone stunned.


    Once they regained their senses, the three men leading the donkey carts quickly snapped their whips.


    The Sun Family was also taken aback.


    They hadn¡¯t expected that Qiao Changshun would dare speak up like this.


    Qiao Zhaodi exhaled in relief. Qiao Changshun finally asserted himself, sparing her the trouble of intervening. That felt good.


    However, this thought just appeared in her mind when the bristling attitude of the Sun Family made her heart race again.


    Qiao Changshun wasn¡¯t sitting in the center of the cart. He was at the rear, his legs barely off the ground. The Sun Family dashed over in a few strides, grabbing his arm and yanked him off the donkey cart, ¡°Even if we¡¯re not kin anymore, I¡¯m still your mother!¡±


    ¡°I have something to say to you. Listen before you go!¡±


    Qiao Changshun hadn¡¯t expected her to get physical and ended up tumbling off the cart, bucket and all.


    Fortunately, the donkey cart was low, so the fall wasn¡¯t a hard one.<div>


    However, recalling Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s words, his face turned somewhat pale.


    If he handled this poorly, the consequences could be severe!


    He started to scramble backward, clearly intent on resisting, ¡°What are you trying to do?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m talking marriage for you. Look at yourself, not an ounce of manliness! Stand up, the woman¡¯s family is watching!¡± The Sun Family pointed with her fan towards a carriage parked on the edge of the threshing floor.


    Qiao Changshun was taken aback, ¡°!!!¡±.


    Talking about marriage¡ªit was like a death sentence to him!


    Stumbling and scrambling, he started to sprint forward, shouting, ¡°Give me a hand, quickly! Stop my mother!¡±


    His overreaction left everyone stunned. Once they came to, they jumped off their carts to grab him, ¡°Changsun, what¡¯s going on?¡±.


    ¡°What¡¯s going on? I¡¯m arranging a marriage for him! Look at this uselessness; no wonder Zhuang Luhe ran off with another man!¡± the Sun Family scoffed.


    Although the dozen or so people had now surrounded Qiao Changshun, she wasn¡¯t intimidated in the least.


    As long as Qiao Xiaomai wasn¡¯t around, she felt free to run rampant.


    Seeing this, Qiao Zhaodi gripping a vine stick, she stood atop the donkey cart, trying to mask her nervousness, her voice loud, ¡°You don¡¯t have to fix a marriage. Xiaomai has already asked someone to look for my second aunt!¡±


    Despite her high volume, her voice was noticeably trembling.


    The Sun Family snorted dismissively, not even looking at Qiao Zhaodi¡¯s feeble attempt at assertiveness. She kept her eyes on Qiao Changshun and said, ¡°Even if that slut Zhuang Luhees back, she would be immersed in a pig cage. Changsun is now wealthy, and with hobbled legs, he needs a caring person to look after him.¡±


    ¡°Changsun, do you see that carriage? The beautiful woman I got for you is inside it. She¡¯s from the County Town¡ªher husband died of a disease, and she can¡¯t live there anymore, so she wants to find a decent man in the countryside.¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s good at embroidery. Take a look at this fan¡ªit¡¯s her work, and she could make quite a sum from her embroidery!¡±


    ¡°She is both beautiful and skilled, and also gentle and virtuous. She is countless times better than that slut Zhuang Luhe. So? What do you think? Isn¡¯t this marriage I arranged for you good?¡±


    Hiding behind the vigers, Qiao Changshun said anxiously and angrily, ¡°I¡¯ve severed ties with you and you don¡¯t need to worry about my affairs anymore. Besides, Luhe is just out working. If you ruin her reputation again, I, I, I¡­¡±


    His tone was trembling and wavering. He had rehearsed this numerous times in the past two days, but when it actually came out, his brain was a nk canvas.<div>


    ¡°I, I, I¡¯ll¡­ I¡¯ll take you to the County Government Office!¡±

 Chapter 509: 509: Where Did Tong Familys Bean Sprout Recipe Come From?!

    Chapter 509: Where Did Tong Family¡¯s Bean Sprout Recipe Come From?!


    Submit aint to the County Government Office?


    As soon as these words were uttered, Mrs. Sun cried out in surprise, smacking her thigh, ¡°Well, then why don¡¯t you make aint! You should make sure all the people in County Town know about Zhuang Luhe running away with another man!¡±


    Hearing this, Qiao Changshun paused, then felt even more stressed out.


    This, this¡­


    Zhuang Luhe did indeed elope with another man, and making aint would indeed be airing this scandal to everyone around¡­


    Mrs. Sun went on to rant loudly, ¡°What does it matter whether we¡¯re rted or not? You are still my flesh and blood! I have the right to look after you!¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re so foolish. You have such a considerable fortune, be careful, or it will all be squandered by that damn girl Qiao Xiaomai!¡±


    Squandered by Qiao Xiaomai?


    Qiao Changshun grew even angrier, ¡°Don¡¯t talk nonsense!¡±


    ¡°Who¡¯s talking nonsense? Tell me, who originally owned that bean sprout business, and why is the Tong Family now running it? If it wasn¡¯t for that damn Qiao Xiaomai, would you really believe the Tong Family came up with it on their own?!¡±<div>


    Mentioning this, Mrs. Sun was practically seething with rage.


    When Qiao Xiaomai first came up with the bean sprout idea, she had tried to im it for herself.


    But what was Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s response?


    Qiao Xiaomai only gave her a little bit of bean sprouts! She didn¡¯t see a single cent from it.


    And now?


    That wench gave the recipe straight to the Tong Family!


    ¡°She¡¯s no longer a young girl in your house, she¡¯s nothing but an ingrate! The Tong Family¡¯s fortune is gone, but she¡¯s stilltching onto Tong Sang. She may be blind, but you can¡¯t afford to be. Your fortune was hard-earned, be careful or she¡¯ll gradually transfer it all to the Tong Family!¡±


    Qiao Changshun ¡°¡­¡±


    Qiao Changshun was so angry his face turned red. He was naturally not eloquent, and now he was faced with the quick-witted Sun, leaving him so upset his eyes turned red.


    Stamping his foot, he retorted, ¡°Luhe couldn¡¯t bear your beatings and scoldings any longer, so she went out to work. Xiaomai got Sang to help her, so she gave him the malt sugar recipe as a reward. As for the bean sprouts, it was the Tong Family¡¯s own idea, it has nothing to do with Xiaomai. Don¡¯t casually tarnish her reputation!¡±


    ¡°Oh my, so that¡¯s how it is!¡± Mrs. Sun became even angrier on hearing this exnation. She pointed her folding fan at Qiao Changshun, and scolded him passionately, ¡°You fool! The matter is just about doing some errands, yet she handed over the malt sugar recipe!¡±


    ¡°How much money is a recipe worth? Look, she¡¯s tantly moving Qiao Family¡¯s possessions to the Tong Family, and you still naively believe her!¡±


    ¡°She has a profitable recipe, why didn¡¯t she keep it for your father? Look how hard your father is working in the fields all day, aging more than ten years in just a few months. You fool, be careful she sells you out while you¡¯re still counting the money for her!¡±


    ¡°That Tong Sang from the Tong Family isn¡¯t any good either!¡± Mrs. Sun spat on the ground with disdain, ¡°Their family lost everything, so he¡¯s desperately hooking up with that wench Xiaomai. What¡¯s he after? Isn¡¯t it your family¡¯s fortune?!¡±


    Even Tong Sang was scolded, leaving Qiao Changshun so enraged he couldn¡¯t speak coherently, ¡°You, you¡¯re just talking nonsense! The fortune, the fortune is Xiaomai¡¯s, Xiaomai¡¯s own earnings!¡±


    ¡°What of it that she earned it herself? She¡¯s a member of the Qiao Family, that means her earnings belong to the Qiao Family! What¡¯s the deal with her constantly contributing to the Tong Family?¡±


    Mrs. Sun stood with one hand on her hip and pointing at him with the other, the saliva practically flying from her mouth, ¡°You should find a reliable and thoughtful person to help you manage your fortune!¡±

 Chapter 510: 510: Tong and Qiao team up to deliberately trap Silver!

    Chapter 510: Tong and Qiao team up to deliberately trap Silver!


    ¡°I won¡¯t!¡± Qiao Changshun said hurriedly and angrily as he looked at the dozen or so vigers surrounding him, urging them, ¡°Quick, quick, get on the wagon, let¡¯s go to the fields!¡±


    He knows he can¡¯t win a shouting match with the Sun Family.


    The only option left at this point is to run.


    The onlooking vigers, hearing his words, helped him onto the oxcart.


    This matter didn¡¯t concern them directly; they were mostly just gawking. But since Qiao Changshun wanted to leave, they naturally sided with him.


    A dozen people circled around Qiao Changshun. The Sun Family didn¡¯t think they could stand up to that many on their own. She stayed put, still shouting, ¡°You are all just as foolish!¡±


    The matriarch shouted the names of a few vigers. ¡°Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s bean sprouts were one penny per two catties, but now she has passed the technique on to the Tong Family, who are selling it for one penny per catty. They inted the price by half, and it must be this cheap girl¡¯s doing! She¡¯s colluding with the Tong Family to rob you of your money!¡±


    These words made a few people understandably hesitate in their steps.


    They had witnessed the interaction between Qiao Xiaomai and Tong Sang. Now that the Tong Family had suddenly started selling bean sprouts, and had even doubled the price, could there be something fishy going on?


    ¡°You, you, you¡­If you keep spouting nonsense, I¡¯ll really sue you!¡± Qiao Changshun threatened, on the verge of snapping after thatment.<div>


    Why did Qiao Xiaomai give the technique to the Tong Family?


    It was to find Zhuang Luhe!


    And why did Zhuang Luhe run away?


    Wasn¡¯t it because she was driven away by the Sun Family?


    Presently, she was maliciously specting about Qiao Xiaomai. For the first time, Qiao Changshun wished he could exin, wished he could argue with her. He found it unbearably disgusting being unjustly smeared like this.


    ¡°Go ahead and sue me! Which part of what I said isn¡¯t true? I¡¯d like to question Qiao Xiaomai and Tong Sang in court. They¡¯re both single, and always hanging around each other so intimately. What on earth are they trying to do?¡±


    Upon hearing her words, Qiao Changshun took a deep breath. ¡°Forget about going to the fields. Zhaodi, go invite Chief Tong over! This matter can¡¯t be cleared up without him. Nobody leaves until we set the record straight!¡±


    Upon hearing his orders, Qiao Zhaodi quickly jumped off the wagon.


    After some thought, she handed the cane she was holding to Qiao Changshun. ¡°Second Uncle, take this. If that woman dares toe near you, hit her!¡±


    Having delivered the message, she made haste toward the Tong Family¡¯s ce.


    Seeing Qiao Zhaodi leave, the remaining vigers still circled around Qiao Changshun, though not as tightly as before.


    If what the matriarch of the Sun Family had just said was true, that Qiao Xiaomai had intentionally passed the bean sprout technique to the Tong Family and let them rob everyone of their money, then it wouldn¡¯t sit well with anyone.


    Qiao Changshun, who was somewhat naive and clueless, hadn¡¯t noticed this. He held the cane in his hand, panting heavily.


    He found himself hating the head of the Sun Family for the first time.


    So this was what it felt like to be wronged, to have dirt unjustly slung at you. The resentment felt like fire in his chest, threatening to explode and burn him to ash!


    The matriarch of the Sun Family snorted, raised her chin high, stared at Qiao Changshun, and continued to curse him. ¡°You¡¯re such a fool, you can¡¯t even recognize who¡¯s truly on your side and who¡¯s good to you!¡±


    Qiao Changshun clenched his teeth, refusing to take the bait.


    He knew he was no match for her in a verbal duel. He would wait for Tong Tiehu.


    Given how the head of the Sun Family had implicated the Tong Family earlier, Tong Tiehu wouldn¡¯t let her off the hook so easily!<div>


    Tong Tiehu hadn¡¯t gone to the fields that day since Tong Sang hadn¡¯t made enough silver to buy the farnd. Instead, he was at home separating soybeans to grow sprouts.


    When he heard from Qiao Zhaodi about what had happened, his face darkened. He took the Zhang Family with him since the matter involved their own bean sprout business. Given Zhang Family¡¯s explosive temper, they would be a great match for the head of the Sun Family.

 Chapter 479: 479: Lets Get Married!

    Chapter 479: Let¡¯s Get Married!


    ¡°Mother, we can just avoid direct confrontations with her in the future,¡± Zhu Hongyun advised, understanding Zhang Family¡¯s intentions, ¡°We can treat her well.¡±


    ¡°Treat her well?!¡± Zhang Family raised her voice.


    Was that even possible?


    She was nearly killed by Tong Xingda!


    This grudge could hardly be resolved!


    ¡°Shh, Mother, calm down, just calm down,¡± Seeing this, Zhu Hongyun hurriedlyforted and exined, ¡°When I say we treat her well, I mean we speak kindly to her in front of others.¡±@@novelbin@@


    ¡°Think about it, she has so much her own wealth, the pitiful amount of money we have pales inparison.¡±


    ¡°In the future, we simply speak kindly, showing our amicable attitudes. Then, if we want to eat something or wear something, you think she won¡¯t provide it for us?¡±


    ¡°You go to her house, she even packs the dishes she prepared for you in a food box. If in the future you have nothing to eat or wear, do you think she would refuse to help?¡±


    Hearing these words, Zhang Family¡¯s furrowed brows gradually rxed.<div>


    Seeing this, Zhu Hongyun quickly added, ¡°Mother, you¡¯re her mother-inw, her elder. If you are kind and polite, we benefit with no downside. Our family gains another source of wealth. Weck something, we just have to ask her in a kind manner.¡±


    ¡°But what if she doesn¡¯t agree?¡± Zhang Family asked.


    Her feelings towards Qiao Xiaomai wereplex.


    There was no doubt that she didn¡¯t want such a daughter-inw, who dared to sever ties with her own grandmother and even threatened her with a knife.


    Additionally, because of Qiao Xiaomai, she had been beaten these past few days. She wished nothing more than to return all the ps Tong Xingda had given her back onto Qiao Xiaomai.


    Yet, Qiao Xiaomai was wealthy.


    Very wealthy.


    She was not only rich but also knew how to make money. Even if there was another raid on the family, they could rely on Qiao Xiaomai to rebuild their wealth.


    Moreover, so far, Qiao Xiaomai has been very kind towards her.


    She desired Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s wealth, but couldn¡¯t handle her fearless personality.


    So, should they go ahead with the marriage or not?


    ¡°Ohe on, ask for a few small things first, she can¡¯t refuse. You are her mother-inw, it¡¯s only right for her to show you respect. Also, we have Sang,¡± Zhu Hongyun said.


    ¡°Sang seems obedient, but actually he always listens to your grandfather,¡± Zhang Family sighed with annoyance.


    ¡°But if you¡¯re really starving or without clothes, wouldn¡¯t Sang definitely do something about it? Besides, we¡¯re women. All we need are food and clothes. With the immense wealth of Qiao Xiaomai, we can easily return to our oldfortable days.¡±


    Zhang Family, hearing this, rxed her brows.


    Yes, she didn¡¯t want much.


    All she wanted was to return to their previous lifestyle.


    Restoring those easy days of regr meat meals and no work, all it took was a flick of a finger from Qiao Xiaomai.


    Surely, Qiao Xiaomai wouldn¡¯t refuse such a small request, would she?<div>


    After a moment of thought, she spoke, ¡°I¡¯ll go ask Sang?¡±


    ¡°Go on, discuss it with him. It seems that he is also somewhat interested in Qiao Xiaomai.¡±


    Tong Sang had always been indifferent towards the other girls in the vige in the past.


    Unlike Qiao Xiaomai, whom he had embraced several times openly in front of everyone!<div>


    Zhang Family got up and went to Tong Sang¡¯s room.


    Tong Sang was reading. Seeing her arrive, he put down his book, ¡°What¡¯s the matter, Mother?¡±


    ¡°Do you like Qiao Xiaomai?¡± Zhang Family was straightforward with her intention.


    ¡°No, I don¡¯t.¡± Tong Sang¡¯s reply contained not a hint of hesitation.


    It was clear and straightforward.

 Chapter 480: 480 Our Family Cant Marry into a Higher Social Status

    Chapter 480: Our Family Can¡¯t Marry into a Higher Social Status


    ¡°She doesn¡¯t like her?!¡± Zhang Family¡¯s eyes widened, astonished.


    ¡°Mm, she doesn¡¯t.¡± Tong Sang nodded, picked up the book again and started reading. His tone was indifferent.


    Seeing this, Zhang Family snatched the book from his hands, ¡°If you don¡¯t like her, why do you help her so diligently?¡±


    ¡°Grandpa is the Vige Chief. It¡¯s my duty to assist if Grandpa orders me to.¡± Tong Sang looked at Zhang Family after his book was taken away. His expression and tone were indifferent.


    ¡°During those times you assisted her, why did you embrace her?! Howe I never see you embrace other girls?¡± Zhang Family questioned further.


    ¡°Because the situation was critical just then, hence I embraced her.¡±


    ¡°Because of her, you revealed your lightness skill! I had no idea you had it!¡± Zhang Family felt somewhat angry recalling this.


    She had only known that Tong Sang had picked up a book of Martial Arts secret techniques, and would asionally practice in the Courtyard.


    Who would have known that his kung fu was so good!


    ¡°The situation was critical.¡± Facing his mother¡¯s questioning, Tong Sang still gave the same response.<div>


    ¡°For her you even fought with General Cen, now you are telling me you don¡¯t like her?!¡± Zhang Family was genuinely getting angry.@@novelbin@@


    ¡°I can¡¯t just stand by and watch her die. The situation was critical.¡± Tong Sang¡¯s answer still were these four words.


    Zhang Family was annoyed, ¡°Are you going to marry her or not!¡±


    ¡°No.¡± Tong Sang answered simply and efficiently.


    Zhang Family pped the table in frustration, ¡°Aren¡¯t you aware that Zhu Cuiying came here to propose marriage for her daughter, Qiao Ying?! If you don¡¯t marry Qiao Xiaomai, then, you can only marry Qiao Ying!¡±


    ¡°I won¡¯t marry anyone.¡±


    ¡°Are you nning to stay a bachelor forever?¡±


    ¡°Will discuss that when I meet the right person.¡±


    ¡°From what I see, Qiao Xiaomai is an excellent choice!¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s the worst fit. What type can¡¯t she find now? Our family and her family are worlds apart.¡±


    ¡°How are they worlds apart?! I can tell she wants to marry you! If not why would she send over so much food?!¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s to show gratitude to Grandpa, it has nothing to do with me.¡±


    ¡°You!¡± Zhang Family was fuming, panting in exasperation.


    Tong Sang quietly met her gaze, his handsome face calm.


    After some time, Zhang Family pped the table, ¡°A marriage depends on the word of the parents, the matchmaker, and the couple, you have no say in it!¡±


    ¡°Grandpa is the head of the house, mom. It¡¯s better if you have this discussion with Granddad.¡±


    ¡°Hmph! That girl is your grandpa¡¯s precious darling. I¡¯m sure he will agree once I suggest it. Just brace yourself for the wedding!¡± With that, Zhang Family angrily stormed off.


    Tong Sang mildly picked up the book again, and continued his studies.


    Because he treats Qiao Xiaomai as his precious darling, that¡¯s precisely why he doesn¡¯t wish for her to marry into their family!<div>


    Tong Tiehu was at the new house and not at home, Zhang Family braved the zing sun to find him.


    When she arrived, Tong Tiehu was slicing green grass with a cutting knife, while Qiao Zhaodi and Qiao Yindi were helping him on the side.


    After Qiao Zhaodi and Qiao Yindi finish their daily chores at Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s home, they were free. It was mid-afternoon, this was their free time.


    Zhang Family entered the Courtyard, without even ncing at the sisters, she said to Tong Tiehu, ¡°Dad, Sang is not young anymore, it¡¯s time for him to get married, do you have any ns?¡±<div>


    At her words, Tong Tiehu stopped his work, ¡°Let¡¯s discuss it after Sang passes the local examination.¡±


    ¡°Passing the local examination doesn¡¯t dy the marriage.¡±


    ¡°Do you have someone in mind?¡± Tong Tiehu wiped the sweat off his cheeks with the handkerchief around his neck.


    ¡°I think Qiao Xiaomai would be a good choice.¡±


    ¡°We are not worthy of her,¡± Tong Tiehu tly refused.

 Chapter 513: 513: The Sun Family Slaps the Face

    Chapter 513: The Sun Family ps the Face


    The purpose of the Sun Family today is simple: to propose marriage to Qiao Changshun.


    When Tong Tiehu dared to step forward, she would drag out the bean sprout method, let the Tong Family¡¯s reputation be damaged, and left Tong Tiehu speechless.


    Of course, if she could take the opportunity to tarnish Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s reputation, she would be more than happy.


    So, when she heard Zhang Family¡¯s words, even though they were a p in her face, she wished she could shout it out for everyone in the vige to hear.


    ¡°Shut up!¡± Qiao Changshun said, stomping his foot angrily.


    He unconsciously held the vine stick in his hand.


    Seeing this, Sun Family took a few steps forward, pointed at her own face with her left hand that wasn¡¯t holding a fan, and said, ¡°Go ahead, hit me if you dare!¡±


    The hand Qiao Changshun was holding the vine stick with was shaking uncontrobly, his eyes turned red with anger, but when he looked at Sun Family¡¯s face, he couldn¡¯t bring himself to hit her.


    Seeing this, Sun Family snorted, then turned her gaze to Zhang Family and Tong Tiehu. ¡°Vige Chief, if nothing else, you may go back. Qiao Changshun and I are discussing marriage ns. He¡¯s a bit shy, you watching him will make him ufortable.¡±


    Her words served as a step for Tong Tiehu to concede.<div>


    Tong Tiehu clenched his teeth, hesitation rising in his heart.


    To go, or not to go, that was the question.


    If he left, Sun Family¡¯s previous usations about the Tong Family overcharging remain unrified. All the vigers were watching. They must have doubts in their mind.


    However, if he didn¡¯t leave, Sun Family would definitely make a fuss and force him to reveal the bean sprout method.


    Once the method of making bean sprouts got revealed, and the yield that Zhang Family imed as eight tael was told to be four tael, it would solidify the usation of the Tong Family overcharging.


    Thinking of this, Tong Tiehu couldn¡¯t help but re at Zhang Family.


    Idiot!


    Compromising the family¡¯s reputation for a bit of money!


    When the price of bean sprouts was being determined, he suggested going with the same price as Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s.


    But this met with objections from the entire family. Making one cent profit from eight tael of soybeans was too less, they said.


    Therefore, he slightly increased the price, wanting to set it at two cents for three tael.


    ording to this calction, the profit would be a bit higher. But the calction was tooplicated and was opposed by the entire family.


    Eventually, they set the price of bean sprouts at one cent per tael.


    If they sold eight tael, they would make five cents profit.


    Does that seem too much? It may not be a lot in the town, but in the vige, it is.


    That¡¯s why, they made a false statement in front of the whole vige, and now they were used by Sun Family of overcharging.


    Over a dozen vigers were listening; they all needed an exnation.


    ¡°Sun Family, you said we are ripping you off, but what proof do you have? What proof?¡± Tong Tiehu hesitated, but Zhang Family made a quick decision: she would never admit it.


    If Sun Family insists they are overcharging, she needed to provide evidence, otherwise it was nder.<div>


    Sun Family said she wanted to buy the method, but they wouldn¡¯t sell


    She insisted she wouldn¡¯t sell it, and there was nothing Sun Family could do.


    Looking at Zhang Family¡¯s annoying face, Sun Family snorted, ¡°I¡¯ll pay 500 taels to buy your bean sprouts method. The method is your evidence!¡±


    ¡°We n to pass this method onto future generations and we cannot sell. If we keep it within the family and pass it on for generations, we¡¯ll make tens of thousands of taels. Are you trying to dismiss me with just 500 taels?¡± Zhang Family argued back.<div>


    ¡°Tens of thousands of taels? I can¡¯t believe you have the audacity to say this! If you don¡¯t sell the method, it shows your guilt, and that you¡¯re ripping off our fellow vigers!¡± Sun Family snorted and said loudly, ¡°Listen, everyone! If, as the Tong family said, one tael of soybeans only yields four tael of bean sprouts, then Xiaomai was selling them at a loss at two cents per tael. Can everyone get their heads around that?!¡±


    She didn¡¯t want to bring up too many issues, and just wanted to have a good chat with Qiao Changshun about the proposal. But since Zhang Family insisted on arguing with her, she would undoubtedly jump out and fight back.

 Chapter 482: 482: I Dont Like Him

    Chapter 482: I Don¡¯t Like Him


    Qiao Xiaomai blinked, a look of surprise crossing her small face. ¡°Proposing marriage?¡±


    ¡°Yes. I thought you were quite fond of Sang, so I¡­¡±


    ¡®Aunt!''¡± Qiao Xiaomai interrupted the woman from the Zhang Family, ¡°When did I ever show fondness for Brother Sang?¡±


    ¡®What?¡¯ The Zhang Family matriarch was taken aback, her brows knotted in a frown. ¡°You kept calling him affectionately as Brother Sang, hugging him in public and frequently delivering food to our house, and now you¡¯re telling me that you don¡¯t fancy Sang?!¡±@@novelbin@@


    She red at Qiao Xiaomai, her cheeks flushed red from the sun, her eyes filled with angry, red veins.


    She was about to explode with rage.


    Previously, she had never paid any attention to Qiao Xiaomai, who she thought was as unassuming as a block of wood.


    But somehow, this piece of wood had sparked a me, not only making money but also frequently seeking Tong Tiehu¡¯s help.


    Help.


    Ha, being so oppressed by the Sun Family, what¡¯s the use of earning money?<div>


    She was still destined to be bullied.


    Then, Qiao Xiaomai did something that left her absolutely astounded: breaking off an engagement!


    Such outrageous behavior, and yet Qiao Xiaomai had done it!


    She had even dared to threaten her own life!


    My goodness, what a fierce temperament. What a nightmare it would be to marry into a family with such a daughter-inw.


    And so, her feelings towards Qiao Xiaomai quickly changed from disdain to disgust.


    Initially, she disdained Qiao Xiaomai for being weak.


    Later, she found Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s boldness disgusting.


    For this reason, she had warned son Sang several times against being bewitched by Qiao Xiaomai.


    Now her family was in a difficult situation, she was willing to put aside her past dislikes and ept Qiao Xiaomai as a daughter-inw, but Qiao Xiaomai had the audacity to say she does not like Sang!


    This was a p in the face to her previous efforts!


    She herself had weighed the pros and cons before finally deciding not to care about the past, but now, Qiao Xiaomai dared to say she didn¡¯t like Sang!


    Qiao Xiaomai didn¡¯t need her family at all!


    This made her previous disgust and dilemmas all a waste!


    This was a resounding p in the face!


    She had made a fool of herself!


    Qiao Xiaomai looked at the fierce Zhang Family matriarch, and exined with a softugh, ¡°I was expressing my gratitude to Grandfather Tong, and, of course, also thanking Brother Sang.¡±


    ¡°But as an unmarried maiden, how could I possibly have feelings for another man? Aunt, please don¡¯t say such things in the future.¡±


    ¡°What about the Sour Plum Soup I asked for the other day? Why did you give it to me so willingly?¡± The Zhang Family matriarch took a deep breath, her hands clenched into fists, questioning angrily.<div>


    ¡°That was also for Grandfather Tong.¡± Qiao Xiaomai exined, ¡°Didn¡¯t you say Grandfather Tong was working hard in the fields nting sweet potatoes? The man has helped me so many times, I couldn¡¯t possibly refuse when his daughter-inw came asking.¡±


    ¡°You!¡±


    Looking at the innocent expression on Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s face, the Zhang Family matriarch was shaking with fury.


    Qiao Xiaomai took note of her reaction, saying seriously, ¡°Aunt, although I am just a vige girl, I¡¯ve met quite a few influential people. Your words are tarnishing my reputation.¡±<div>


    ¡°This could affect my rtionships with these prominent individuals, so please refrain from making such statements in the future.¡±


    At her words, the matriarch of the Zhang Family was so angry that her chest heaved and her cheeks blushed like a cooked shrimp.


    She was even threatened!


    She had assumed that as soon as she mentioned her intention, Qiao Xiaomai would shyly ept.


    Why was the situation not developing as she had imagined!


    ¡°Aunt, if there is nothing else, please go back.¡± Qiao Xiaomai pointed to the door of the courtyard.

 Chapter 515: 515: I Sold It Like This!

    Chapter 515: I Sold It Like This!


    ¡°Enough!¡± Tong Tiehu rebuked her, ¡°Isn¡¯t it shameful enough for you?!¡±


    ¡°Who¡¯s embarrassed?! Isn¡¯t this how all businesses operate?! Doesn¡¯t every family that does business fret about the difficulty of making money!¡±


    Zhang Family stiffened her neck to retort a sentence to Tong Tiehu, then looked toward the vigers surrounding Qiao Changshun, and loudly said, ¡°I only make five cooper coins for eight pounds of bean sprouts! Yesterday, I only sold thirteen pounds of bean sprouts all day, only making six to seven coins a day, is that robbing people?!¡±


    On the first day of the new store opening, all one hundred pounds of bean sprouts were sold out.


    As a result, the sales volume of bean sprouts plummeted yesterday, with only thirteen pounds sold in a day.


    Only six or seven coins were made in one day. If you say she¡¯s robbing, she won¡¯t ept it!


    ¡°You all earn seven coins a day working at Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s house, and I¡¯m making just as much from my business, is this robbery?!¡±


    ¡°If you think I¡¯m robbing money, you don¡¯t have to buy from me in the future, you can also report me in County Town! My words are right here, my bean sprouts will still be sold in the future, a coin a pound!¡±


    When Zhang Family¡¯s words fell, the scene became quiet again.


    Her exnation seem to make sense.<div>


    Doing business, in the impression of the vigers, makes a lot of money. The Jiangs, the Tongs, and the Qiaos in the vige are all quite rich.


    Now that Zhang Family¡¯s exnation, the ie from selling bean sprouts a day is as much as their work at Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s house, that wouldn¡¯t count as robbing money¡­


    It can only be said that it¡¯s not very honorable.


    She¡¯s slippery and not honest when she¡¯s facing her neighbors, really dishonest, really dishonest.


    If she had been straightforward about it, everyone wouldn¡¯t have said anything!


    Seeing the turn of events, Sun Family put away the smug expression on her face, and hummed, ¡°Stopining. How much money did you make selling bean sprouts on your store¡¯s first day of opening?¡±


    ¡°Isn¡¯t it okay for my shop to earn a few dozen coins on its opening day?¡± Zhang Family retorted with her hands on her hips, ¡°You just falsely used my family and Qiao Xiaomai of plotting to steal everyone¡¯s money. That¡¯s a false usation!¡±


    ¡°Dad, she¡¯s deliberately smearing our family. Shouldn¡¯t she be punished? Shouldn¡¯t she be taken to County Town?¡±


    ¡°And she, a shrew who was driven out of the vige, what right does she have to stir up trouble in our vige?!¡±


    Tong Tiehu hesitated, he looked at the dozens of vigers surrounding Qiao Changshun and asked, ¡°What do you think? Is my family robbing money?¡±


    ¡°That¡­ shouldn¡¯t be.¡± Someone started to speak.


    Making five coins for a pound of soybeans does seem a lot.


    But if you convert it to bean sprouts, making five coins for eight pounds of bean sprouts, which amounts to less than ten coins a day, it doesn¡¯t seem like a rip-off.


    ¡°It shouldn¡¯t be.¡± Someone certainly gave the answer.


    ¡°That¡¯s right, that¡¯s right. Only a few coins a day, it¡¯s not a rip-off.¡±


    ¡°Not a scam, not a scam. And after watching for so long, shouldn¡¯t we be heading to the fields? We¡¯re being dyed from our work here?¡±


    Those vigers started to chatter.


    Now that the matter with the Tong Family seems to be clear, let¡¯s get to the fields quick, staying here is dying their wage-earning work.


    Those words reached Qiao Changshun¡¯s heart, ¡°Let¡¯s go, let¡¯s go, let¡¯s get to the fields.¡±<div>


    He said, as he got into the ox cart first.


    The vigers also got on the cart, the driver whipped the ox, and the ox cart and donkey cart headed towards the fields along the main road.


    Seeing this, Sun Family didn¡¯t bother to deal with Tong Tiehu and Zhang Family anymore, she quickly walked towards the little horse cart at the edge of the wheat field, ¡°Let¡¯s go, let¡¯s follow them.¡±


    Seeing this, Zhang Family wanted to call back Sun Family, but Tong Tiehu red at her fiercely, ¡°Shut your mouth!¡±<div>


    Although these ten or so people have stated their position, he does not know what they really think inside.

 Chapter 484: 484: Grandfather, Lets Divide The Family

    Chapter 484: Grandfather, Let¡¯s Divide The Family


    Zhang Family was also panicked.


    What to do?


    She does not want to grow sweet potatoes, working herself to death every day for just a bare subsistence.


    She yearns for the old days!


    ¡°Mother, why don¡¯t you ask Sang to see if Qiao Xiaomai really has a powerful backer? Did Sang refuse to marry her because of this?¡± Zhu Hongyun asked.


    Recalling the appearance of Tong Sang just now, Zhang Family smacked her thigh, ¡°That¡¯s very likely!¡±


    Now her family is impoverished, but Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s family is getting better and better, and then Qiao Xiaomai looked down upon her family!@@novelbin@@


    The reason why she is still being kind to her now should be because she has notpletely hooked up with those powerful people.


    If she really hooks up, she would definitely fall out with her!


    Quickly springing up a drama in her mind, Zhang Family set off to find Tong Sang.<div>


    Tong Sang, who was studying, heard her spection, ¡°¡­Mother, don¡¯t talk nonsense, you¡¯re ruining her reputation.¡±


    ¡°You silly boy! She normally drives you like a beast of burden, and now she despises you! Now you are studying hard, you want to attain schrly rank just to prove yourself to her, right?!¡±


    Tong Sang ¡°¡­¡±


    Turns out his mother has the talent to write drama stories.


    ¡°That¡¯s not true, mother, don¡¯t talk nonsense.¡±


    ¡°Still defending her! To death with your foolishness!¡± Zhang Family poked his shoulder hard, ¡°Worthless girl, turning up her nose at people,pletely ungrateful, after all the help your grandfather offered her!¡±


    Tong Sang ¡°¡­¡±


    He must hug Qiao Xiaomai tonight, this mother-inw rtionship is so tense, he dares not marry.


    ¡°I think you might as well rape her! Shameless dirty woman, just like her mother!¡± added Zhang Family.


    Tong Sang ¡°¡­¡±


    His father and mother are really a match, their thinking is alike.


    ¡°Mother, don¡¯t say any more.¡± His handsome face sank, ¡°What do you think of your son?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m just fighting for your rights!¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s nothing in the first ce. What rights are you talking about? I don¡¯t have any affair with her, and she hasn¡¯t associated with any powerful people. Don¡¯t say these words anymore.¡± Tong Sang¡¯s voice was icy, ¡°If grandfather heard what you said, he would definitely get angry again.¡±


    Zhang Family opened her mouth, holding back a belly full of vulgarities.


    She poked Tong Sang¡¯s shoulder again and left angrily after leaving a few harsh words.


    Tong Sang stared at the mmed bedroom door and pursed his lips.


    Such a deep misunderstanding can only be resolved by separating the family.


    And after the separation, his parents can¡¯t live with him.<div>


    Otherwise, he wouldn¡¯t dare to let Qiao Xiaomai marry him.


    With this in mind, he found some time in the next few days to talk to Tong Tiehu about this problem.


    Upon hearing this, Tong Tiehu¡¯s brow furrowed deeply.


    ¡°Why did I marry such a dumb woman back then!¡±<div>


    ¡°Grandpa, let¡¯s separate,¡± said Tong Sang. ¡°My mother and Xiaomai can¡¯t live together or something will happen.¡±


    Tong Tiehu gave him a deep look, ¡°After we separate, how will your Second Brother live?¡±


    ¡°If it¡¯s about work, it will be the same as before, but we won¡¯t live or eat together.¡±


    The Tong Family has three houses.


    One old yard, two new houses, but the rooms in the new house have been connected.


    ¡°How about Xiaomai, you, grandmother and I live in the old yard, and the others move to the new house?¡±


    ¡°Hmph, not good. Do you think they would agree to this?! Your mother wants you to marry Xiaomai because she wants to take advantage. If we separate like this, there¡¯s no advantage for her to take. Do you think she¡¯d agree?¡±

 Chapter 485: 485: Is He Too Unfeeling?

    Chapter 485: Is He Too Unfeeling?


    ¡°First, let¡¯s divide the family, then I¡¯ll marry. Now I¡¯ve decided I won¡¯t marry,¡± Tong Sang said.


    At present, everyone in the Tong Family has their own money, but there¡¯s no property in the family.


    Given that there¡¯s not much property in the family, house division would just mean living separately.


    He had made up his mind, he would live in the old yard with Tong Tiehu and Qian Family.


    The rest of the people would live on the side of the new house.


    As for work, everyone would still work together in the fields.


    ¡°What¡¯s the reason? What¡¯s the reason for this separation? If you separate at this critical moment, your mother would undoubtedly suspect something.¡±


    ¡°Just tell her I want to focus on my studies. I can¡¯t calm down and study if everyone lives together.¡±


    Tong Tiehu kept silent for a while and then nodded, ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll mention it at dinner tonight and see everyone¡¯s reaction.¡±


    Dinner was still the same coarse tea and light meals.<div>


    All the game Tong Sang hunted, he sold. He did not keep a single piece.


    When he went to town to sell his game, Zhang Family, Tong Xingda and his two older brothers all asked him to buy some good food on his way back to enhance their meals.


    It was not that he didn¡¯t want to buy, it was just that Tong Tiehu didn¡¯t allow him to.


    Tong Tiehu was determined to harshly discipline these people, naturally, he would use multiple methods. If the work wasborious, the meals would be in.


    So these days, the food of the Tong Family members came from the vegetables grown in their own garden.


    Now it¡¯s summer, the harvest season for vegetables.


    But only a few types of vegetables were cooked in rotation and the family was already fed up with this.


    Upon reaching the dinner table, Tong Xingda saw only a bowl of Cold Mixed Cucumber and a bowl of stir-fried green beans, he couldn¡¯t help but grumble, ¡°Vegetables, vegetables, always vegetables! I feel like I¡¯ve turned into a bird brought about by all that¡¯s nd!¡±


    Having said that, he shot Tong Sang a nce.


    An unfilial thing!@@novelbin@@


    He can¡¯t even buy a bit of meat!


    Tong Sang wore an innocent face.


    Tong Tiehu watched this scene unfold and scolded, ¡°We used to eat meat every day, you didn¡¯t get sick of it?¡±


    ¡°Who could¡¯ve imagined those days would be gone,¡± Tong Xingda snorted.


    Yes, they did get sick of meat in the past, but now they are living so frugally, eating vegetarian meals every day without having any vorful food to eat, his belt has be loose.


    It¡¯s all due to hunger.


    He has gotten thin due to hunger!


    Tong Tiehu shook his head at this sorry sight and felt the urge to give Tong Xingda a smack.


    ¡°How did I end up with a son like you!¡±<div>


    He is an ancestor of Prince Pingnan, Gu Yu anyways!


    Now he is causing troubles over a little bit of food!


    Thinking about this issue, Tong Xingda also felt distressed, ¡°Dad, life has be hopeless, so I can only think about these matters.¡±


    The treasure is gone.<div>


    Family property has been seized.


    Now he is just an ordinary farmer. If they¡¯re not letting ponder on what to eat, do they want him to plot a rebellion like he did before?!


    Upon hearing this, Tong Tiehu couldn¡¯t help but zone out, as he understood the hidden meaning behind those words.


    There was a surge of confusion in his eyes.


    The heavy burden that he had carried his whole life had finally been lifted.


    But after it was gone, there was confusion.


    He had grown old, and it¡¯s alright for him to be confused.


    Moreover, he had been pondering over how to change the family these past days and didn¡¯t have much time to bask in his confusion.


    But what about Tong Xingda?


    He knew his son once dreamed of bing the Emperor.


    Now that he has lost everything overnight and he is forced by him to nt sweet potatoes in the field, Tong Xingda¡¯s heart must be struggling and feeling more lost than him, right?


    Tong Xingda probably doesn¡¯t know what he should do next.


    Under this circumstance, has his high-pressure policy been too ruthless?<div>


    He hadn¡¯t even considered his son¡¯s feelings.


    His family members are all ordinary people, wouldn¡¯t they have such reactions when they encounter such situations?


    ¡°Grandpa, is something wrong?¡± At this point, Tong Sang spoke up, pulling him back from his thoughts.


    ¡°Ah? No, it¡¯s nothing.¡± He waved his hand and quickly pulled himself together.


    ¡°Um¡­ There¡¯s something I want to say.¡± He looked at his family sitting around and began to speak.


    ¡°What?¡± Tong Xingda looked at him while biting into a steamed bun.


    ¡°Sang is preparing for the provincial examinations. But with our big family all living together and making noise, it will affect his studies. So, I was thinking, why don¡¯t we divide the family?¡±

 Chapter 486: 486 I only live with Sanlang

    Chapter 486: I only live with Sang


    Divide the family?


    These two words caused everyone present to freeze in surprise.


    Zhu Hongyun immediately protested, ¡°I disagree!¡±


    This was a joke.


    She and her husband, Tong Eng, could neither make vinegar nor read nor farm; they were basically ipetent. Moreover, they were neither the eldest nor the youngest, so Tong Xingda and Zhang Family would definitely not live with them.


    If they were to split the family, she and Tong Eng would certainly end up destitute!


    And then there was the matter of Tong Sang about to take the local exams.


    Though she had little faith in Tong Sang, what if by some stroke of luck he passed? Then he would be a schr.


    Schrs were exempt from taxes and were considered superior to themon people!


    Why would she split the family with Tong Sang at this point? Absolutely Not!<div>


    Additionally, Tong Sang might marry Qiao Xiaomai.


    Qiao Xiaomai was one of two opportunities for the Tong family to rise again!


    The other opportunity was to restore their former glory by relying on Tong Sang¡¯s hunting skills after this period.


    Therefore, no matter which of these reasons, each was closely tied to Tong Sang. She would definitely not split from him!


    ¡°Why don¡¯t you agree?¡± Tong Tiehu looked at her.


    ¡°Because neither I nor Eng currently have any survival skills. If you send us away, that¡¯s tantamount to cutting off our means of living,¡± Zhu Hongyun dered defiantly, ¡°Even if we split, it should be after Eng and I learn how to farm.¡±


    Tong Tiehu nodded and said, ¡°You don¡¯t need to worry about that. When I mentioned splitting, I only meant living separately. We only have ten acres ofnd in the family; it¡¯s not feasible to divide it. We¡¯ll still farm together in the future.¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t need to worry about not learning farming; I¡¯ll teach you personally.¡±


    Zhu Hongyun, ¡°¡­What about meals?¡±


    ¡°We¡¯ll handle them separately. Sang has to study, he always finishes work the fastest. Spending his time on household chores and cooking is a waste,¡± Tong Tiehu said, pointing to himself and Qian Family, ¡°We two old folks will live with Sang. The rest of you move to the new residence.¡±


    ¡°No way!¡± As soon as Tong Tiehu finished speaking, Zhang Family who had remained silent till now, immediately spoke out in disagreement.


    Her thoughts were the same as Zhu Hongyun¡¯s. In the past few days, she had fully realized the value of her third son.


    Whether they could return to the way they were depended entirely on Tong Sang.


    As Tong Sang¡¯s mother, how could she not live with him!


    ¡°I¡¯m Sang¡¯s mother, why should I move to the new residence?¡±


    ¡°When a family splits, they typically follow the eldest son,¡± Tong Tiehu said.


    ¡°The Qiao Family didn¡¯t do that. Qiao Qinghe and Sun Family live with Sun Junyan!¡±@@novelbin@@


    Tong Tiehu was speechless.


    The situation was eerily simr to the Qiao Family¡¯s division.<div>


    ¡°We can split, but I must live with Sang!¡± Zhang Family said firmly with a resolute expression.


    Tong Xingda fell silent for a moment and then red at Tong Sang, ¡°You little rascal, are you treating your mother and me like burdens?!¡±


    Naturally, this question couldn¡¯t be answered honestly.


    Tong Sang shook his head, ¡°No.¡±<div>


    ¡°Then why do only your grandparents live with you?¡± Tong Xingda challenged.


    ¡°He¡¯s giving Dng an opportunity to show filial piety to you. Didn¡¯t it used to be like this with you two living in the town with Dng and his wife?¡± Tong Tiehu intervened.


    ¡°That was to take care of the vinegar shop¡¯s business and the two children!¡±


    ¡°Now it¡¯s the same, in any case, the vinegar shop will be opened at the new residence. By that time, Dng¡¯s family of four would have to move. Why don¡¯t you and Xingda move together?¡± Tong Tiehu suggested.


    ¡°That was in the past. Now I¡¯m growing old, I nned to live out my days with our youngest son, Sang,¡± Zhang Family stared at Tong Sang with a gaze and tone more resolute than before.


    The smooth sailing of herter life depended wholly on Tong Sang!


    Furthermore, out of her three sons, Tong Sang was the most obedient and filial one!


    Of course, she was going to live with Tong Sang!

 Chapter 487: 487 We Will Be More Diligent

    Chapter 487: We Will Be More Diligent


    Tong Sang ¡°¡­¡±


    He fell silent under the fiery gaze of the Zhang Family.


    He would have absolutely been willing to support his parents.


    But his mother harbored a deep prejudice against his beloved woman.


    For the sake of his beloved, he chose to divide the family.


    This action could be considered unfilial.


    Now, faced with the questioning gaze of Zhang Family, he was about to falter.


    ¡°What are you staring at Sang for? Did he say he wouldn¡¯t support you? He just wants to read undistracted.¡± Tong Tiehu grunted and interrupted Zhang Family¡¯s gaze and silent me on Tong Sang.


    ¡°Sang wants to read quietly. As long as we don¡¯t make noise, it¡¯s fine.¡± Zhu Hongyun spoke up, ¡°As for household chores, we¡¯ll do more.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Tong Tiehu looked over, clearly skeptical.<div>


    Zhu Hongyun, seeing his reaction, pushed Tong Eng, ¡°Let Eng do the chores like sweeping, feeding the livestock and picking up firewood.¡±


    If they wereteing back, those chores would be done by Tong Sang.


    Upon hearing Zhu Hongyun, Tong Eng had a bitter expression as if he had swallowed a bitter pill. He was already exhausted from working in the fields every day, and now he had these chores too.


    Zhu Hongyun noticed his expression and pinched him, ¡°You don¡¯t pick up firewood every day, only when you¡¯re not working in the field.¡±


    Tong Eng reluctantly acknowledged it.


    Zhu Hongyun grinned at Tong Tiehu, ¡°Grandpa, don¡¯t worry, we won¡¯t let Sang do housework anymore.¡±


    Upon hearing her, Tong Tiehu looked at Tong Dng.


    Tong Dngughed, ¡°Grandpa, I will also work harder so as not to hinder my little brother¡¯s studies.¡±


    ¡°Exactly, Grandpa don¡¯t worry. Sang is our family¡¯s hope, we will not dy him.¡± Zhu Hongyun added, nodding vigorously.


    Tong Tiehu¡¯s gaze scanned each of their faces in turn.


    He sighed inwardly.


    He didn¡¯t actually want to divide the family either.


    Although he understood the true nature of his own family, emotionally he wasn¡¯t ready to give up.


    It was possible that these people could be changed for the better.


    So he¡¯d been trying to reform them with hard work these days, apanied by scolding that was harsh but truthful.


    He hoped this strategy would change thezy habits of his family.


    He wanted them to realize thatpared to most in the vige, their current situation was actually good.


    However, judging by the past few days, his high-pressure reform policy was not working.


    Moreover, watching the reactions of everyone now, his worries increased even more.<div>


    These people were sticking to Tong Sang instead of dividing the household- not because of their familial attachment, not because they hated to split up their family, but because of their interests.


    They knew they would have better days if they stuck with Tong Sang.


    How could this happen?


    Even though they had been stubborn and disobedient towards Qiao Xiaomai in the past, how could they crumble like this when it was time for their own family to unite?<div>


    He sighed again in his heart, looking at Tong Sang, ¡°Sang, keep a few hares or wild chickens next time you go hunting. You¡¯re always working and studying, take good care of your health.¡±


    Tong Sang answered, ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s eat.¡± Tong Tiehu picked up a piece of cucumber with his chopsticks.


    The others also started eating.


    Tong Xingda smiled, ¡°Sang, hunt a few more. Everyone needs to replenish their energy. We are running low.¡±


    Tong Sang only responded with a grunt, showing no change in expression.@@novelbin@@


    But a wave of despair surfaced in his heart.


    The n to divide the family had fallen through.


    And it had been med on his unfilialness¡­

 Chapter 488: 488: Let Them Start a Small Business

    Chapter 488: Let Them Start a Small Business


    Deep at night, Tong Sang went to find Qiao Xiaomai.


    He ryed the conversation from dinner to Qiao Xiaomai.


    His tone was no different than usual, but Qiao Xiaomai knew he was unhappy.


    She took out the small seven-inch cake from thest time he hadn¡¯t finished from her space, ¡°Here, eat this.¡±


    Tong Sang shook his head, ¡°Not hungry.¡±


    ¡°You should eat. If you feel bitter inside, you should taste something sweet.¡± Qiao Xiaomai dug out a spoonful of cream and held it out to him.


    He stared at Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s face for a while, then opened his mouth to take the spoonful.


    Qiao Xiaomai smiled, touched the tip of his nose with her free hand, ¡°Feeling miserable, isn¡¯t it?¡±


    Tong Sang only hummed in response.


    The cream in his mouth was so sweet it was almost suffocating¡­<div>


    ¡°Give me some water,¡± he requested.


    Qiao Xiaomai handed him a cup, ¡°I understand how you feel.¡±


    She¡¯s been fighting with her stepfather and stepmother since the age of ten, so she knows too well the feeling of helplessness when dealing with elders.


    ¡°We don¡¯t get to choose our parents, we¡¯re stuck with them from the moment we¡¯re born.¡±


    The Sun Family was her grandmother, so she could cut ties because they were a generation removed, and because they were indeed overbearing.


    But Tong Sang couldn¡¯t.


    While the Zhang Family didn¡¯t mistreat Tong Sang, they were just prejudiced against her.


    Tong Sang was caught in the middle, facing difficult choices.


    ¡°As we said before, let¡¯s just see how things go after your exam.¡± she advised.


    ¡°Hmm?¡± Tong Sang put the cup down, ¡°Will my mother arrange another girl for me once I pass the exam?¡±


    The Zhang family wanted to marry Qiao Xiaomai because they wanted to return to the good old days.


    But once he passed the exam and his value increased, his mother might want to find another girl.@@novelbin@@


    ¡°Just because you¡¯ve be a little schr, do you think a really rich family would look at you?¡± Qiao Xiaomai asked.


    ¡°A merchant family might. Plus, look at my qualifications.¡± Tong Sang said with a confident smirk.


    Qiao Xiaomaiughed, ¡°Careful there, don¡¯t get too big headed.¡±


    Seeing this, Tong Sang hurriedly put down his cup, grabbing her hand, ¡°I hope you¡¯ll forever only have eyes for me.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai hummed, ¡°Depends on how you behave.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll bepletely true and sincere, ready to follow you through life and death.¡± Tong Sang gripped her hand tighter.


    Qiao Xiaomai smiled, she pulled her hand free and scooped up another spoonful of cream, ¡°You sure know how to sweet talk.¡±<div>


    Tong Sang gulped down the cream, nodding strongly, ¡°I learned from the best.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai blinked, ¡°I¡¯ve just remembered something.¡±


    ¡°What?¡± Tong Sang asked, trying to ignore the overwhelmingly sweet taste.


    ¡°I can make malt candy, would you like me to teach you?¡±<div>


    Tong Sang ¡°¡­¡±


    The conversation had taken quite a turn.


    He paused for a moment before asking, ¡°Why did you think of this.¡±


    ¡°You called me sweet, so I thought of candy.¡±


    ¡°Then why teach me?¡±


    ¡°Your family¡¯s vinegar business is not very profitable. If you also sold malt candy, you could make a bit more.¡±


    ¡°And then?¡±


    ¡°Then if your eldest brother made vinegar and your second brother made malt candy, if everyone had a little business to run, they wouldn¡¯t rely solely on you.¡±


    Would they agree to divide the family if they learned how to make money for themselves?


    ¡°If all else fails, I can teach your mother how to make cold skin noodles. She wouldn¡¯t need to rely on you if she had her own business.¡±


    ¡°But that would expose our rtionship, only you know how to make cold skin noodles.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai frowned lightly, pondering before asking, ¡°What about making dried sweet potatoes?¡±


    ¡°Dried sweet potatoes?¡±<div>

 Chapter 489: 489: Zhuang Lühes Whereabouts

    Chapter 489: Zhuang L¨¹he¡¯s Whereabouts


    ¡°It¡¯s different from others¡¯ versions.¡±


    Sweet potatoes have only been introduced here recently, and people here have a simplistic way of eating them; sometimes they would just slice them up and sundry them into dried sweet potatoes.


    The taste of the dried sweet potatoes made this way is only mediocre, falling significantly short of the dried sweet potatoes sold inter eras.


    ¡°Your family has nted ten acres of sweet potatoes this year, and it won¡¯t all be for your own consumption. You can turn them into dried sweet potatoes to sell. The method is quite straightforward: just let the dried sweet potatoes sit for a while, wash them, steam them in the pot until they¡¯re cooked, and then dry them out.¡±


    ¡°It just adds one more step: steaming them in the pot.¡±


    ¡°Sounds simple enough. So, should I say that this is my idea?¡± Tong Sang said.


    ¡°Yes, just say it¡¯s your idea. The same way the brewing method for malt sugar was something you learned from some misceneous books. In any case, find some money-making things for your mother to do and stop her from putting all her hopes on you.¡±


    ¡°And your second brother, too. Let his wife and him not put all their hope on you either. Instead of them betting on you to bring wealth to the family, they should learn how to make their own money.¡±


    A craft that doesn¡¯t strain you and yet makes money is always a good thing.


    ¡°Agreed.¡± Tong Sang pondered and nodded in assent.<div>


    ¡°If the dried sweet potatoes don¡¯t work out, bring up the malt sugar enterprise to your second brother in the next few days,¡± Qiao Xiaomai suggested.


    ¡°Okay.¡±


    Having settled this matter, Tong Sang heaved a sigh of relief, feeling a bit lighter.


    He took the initiative to take the spoon, scooping up the cake to eat. He didn¡¯t feel bitter inside anymore, and the cake he was eating now didn¡¯t taste as suffocating as before.


    ¡°What are you doing tomorrow?¡± He asked.


    ¡°I¡¯ll deliver the chili to Yang Ye¡¯s guard in the town.¡± The chili was ripe; she had taken out the seeds, and the chili skin was for Yang Ye.


    One could only grow a little bit each year ¨C who knew how many years it would take before one could savor chili unabashedly.


    ¡°Oh¡­ there¡¯s something I need to tell you.¡± She opened her mouth again.


    ¡°What is it?¡±


    ¡°When my maternal grandmother visited the other day, she suggested that I should find my mother and bring her back. Since I¡¯ve decided to speak up, I won¡¯t hesitate,¡± Qiao Xiaomai said directly, ¡°I didn¡¯t tell you before because I was unsure.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve made up my mind now. I think it would be better for my family to have an elder, and moreover, I should fulfill the duties of the original body¡¯s filial piety.¡±


    After all, she had taken over the body of the original owner and Zhuang L¨¹he was not a shrew like the Sun Family¡¯s woman ¨C she felt pity for Zhuang L¨¹he.


    Now that their family was wealthy, even if Zhuang L¨¹he were to return and found things wrong, if she insisted that she had to toughen up out of necessity, Zhuang L¨¹he would have nothing to say.


    In any case, she was now the head of the household.@@novelbin@@


    After hearing her words, Tong Sang kept silent for a moment. Then he said, ¡°Actually¡­ Tingfeng Pavilion had already located her whereabouts a while ago, but I noticed that you didn¡¯t seem to want her to return, so I never mentioned it to you.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai ¡°!!!¡±


    Did Tong Sang already know about Zhuang L¨¹he¡¯s whereabouts?!


    Her peach blossom eyes were suddenly wide open. ¡°When did you start looking into this?!¡±


    ¡°Since I discovered a change in your personality, I ordered someone to start investigating. Once our rtionship was confirmed, I received the news,¡± Tong Sang exined truthfully.<div>


    ¡°That early?¡±


    ¡°At that time, I didn¡¯t know who you were or anything about you, so I was wary. Inquiring about her whereabouts was just a matter of word of mouth, so I gave the order,¡± Tong Sang exined.


    Looking back on his feelings at the time, he found it somewhat amusing.


    ¡°So where is she? Is she doing well?¡± Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s heart tightened momentarily, forgetting about her curiosity regarding Tong Sang¡¯s thought process back then and hastily asked.<div>

 Chapter 490: 490: A Stupid and Foolish Woman

    Chapter 490: A Stupid and Foolish Woman


    ¡°She¡¯s in Beiyang County, which neighbors Huai¡¯an County. She went with the peddler, but she¡¯s not with him.¡±


    ¡°That peddler introduced her to a widower in a vige of Beiyang County. The widower, who has a six-year-old son and is blind in one eye, has a violent temper. Histe wife was beaten to death by him.¡±


    ¡°That peddler deceived Zhuang Luhe, gave her false information, essentially selling her off.¡±


    ¡°That peddler originally came from the same county, but had migrated to Bailu Town for its prosperity to conduct small businesses. Even if you tried to find him earlier, he¡¯s not what you would call a guide.¡±


    ¡°At first, the man would beat her, and she tried to sneak away ande back, but she never seeded. That man watched her very closely.¡±


    ¡°However, I had people secretly teach that man a lesson, so now he¡¯s much more polite to her.¡±


    ¡°Overall, her current life is almost like her previous one at your home. She¡¯s working in the fields every day, always busy.¡±


    ¡°If you¡¯re willing, I could arrange for someone to bring her back.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai ¡°¡­¡±


    She was dumbfounded.<div>


    Her chest felt suffocated, and her nose tingled with sourness.


    ¡°Is, is she really living such a miserable life?¡± She asked in a trembling voice.


    Upon seeing this, Tong Sang pursed his lips, raised his arm to gently hug her, ¡°God is always ying tricks on her.¡±


    All along, he had been an observer of Zhuang Luhe¡¯s life.


    Zhuang Luhe had a miserable life, but it was she who chose Qiao Changshun. She also tolerated the Sun Family for all these years, and the elopement was her own choice too.


    Fate dealt her a lot of suffering; this is a luckless and foolish woman.


    That was his assessment of Zhuang Luhe.


    However, seeing Qiao Xiaomai distressing over this, he couldn¡¯t help but sigh, ¡°I¡¯ll get someone to send her back tomorrow, don¡¯t be upset.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not upset, I just feel a tightness in my chest.¡± Qiao Xiaomai put a hand to her chest.@@novelbin@@


    Her heart felt like it was being squeezed hard, and she slightly became breathless.


    She and Zhuang Luhe were neither rtives nor friends. She had nevermented on Zhuang Luhe¡¯s actions before. Later, when she discovered that Qiao Chang¡¯an had been molesting Zhuang Luhe, her sympathy leaned towards Zhuang Luhe, thinking her pitiful.


    But that was just pitiful, and she hadn¡¯t put much thought into anything else apart from this emotion.


    However, now hearing Tong Sang¡¯s exnation, the memories she inherited from her predecessor involuntarily surfaced in her mind.


    All of it was filled with images of Zhuang Luhe suffering.


    The heavybor, the Sun family¡¯s mistreatment ¨C these scenes ovepped with Tong Sang¡¯s descriptions, her eyes turned misty unconsciously.


    ¡°Maybe those memories, seeped in so many times, became mine.¡± she sniffled, lifting her arms to embrace Tong Sang, ¡°What a fool, following any random peddler she meets, what a fool.¡±


    Tong Sang hugged her tighter, speaking in a softened tone, ¡°She had no other options. With your father unable to do heavy work, your family living in dire poverty, and with the uing Spring Tax, all this pressure leaves her no room for hope.¡±


    ¡°She¡­ has always been poor at judging people.¡±


    Having heard these words from Qiao Xiaomai, heforted her with a pat on the back, ¡°I¡¯ll arrange someone to bring her back.¡±<div>


    ¡°No need, the Emperor Emeritus doesn¡¯t like you having anything to do with the Tingfeng Pavilion. I¡¯ll ask my dad to pick her up personally.¡± Qiao Xiaomai responded.

 Chapter 491: 491: Its Not Her Fault

    Chapter 491: It¡¯s Not Her Fault


    Qiao Xiaomai quickly thought of an idea, ¡°Just say I heard from Tingfeng Pavilion about her whereabouts.¡±


    ¡°Then how did you learn about Tingfeng Pavilion?¡±


    ¡°I learned of it from the lips of nobles who saw your impressive martial arts and asked you to make inquiries.¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡± Tong Sang nodded, agreeing with the story.


    ¡°However, have you really thought this through? If shees back, you won¡¯t be as free as you are now in this home, and we won¡¯t be able to meet like this at night.¡±


    Although Zhuang Luhe was not clever, she was much smarter than the father and son duo ¨C Qiao Changshun and Qiao Dami.


    She would surely discover his trysts with Qiao Xiaomai in the courtyard every night.


    ¡°We¡¯ll have to behave ourselves for now. As for the house, it¡¯s okay. The wall of the manor is almost repaired. I¡¯ll have Master Miao start building a house there tomorrow, and I¡¯ll move there then.¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡± Tong Sang looked surprised. ¡°Where are you nning to move?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll start with the story of Tingfeng Pavilion tomorrow, and then say I¡¯m having you make some inquiries. It is estimated that it will take a month back and forth. Once I really bring her back, we¡¯ll need a few days of adjustment, and it will be time for the autumn harvest.¡±<div>


    ¡°During the autumn harvest, someone will have to move there.¡±


    Tong Sang ran through that timeline, nodding, ¡°Alright, let¡¯s do as you say.¡±


    The two discussed a few more details, and Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s emotions steadily settled. Tong Sang stayed with her, chatting about lighter matters until she was nearly asleep, before he left.


    Qiao Xiaomai woke up after only two hours of sleep, had breakfast, and then took the ox cart to town.


    After passing along the chili pepper skins and chili oil method to Yang Ye¡¯s guard, she bought some groceries and then drove the ox cart back to the vige.


    At noon, after lunch, when Qiao Dami was taking a nap, she sat in the courtyard with Qiao Changshun and started talking, ¡°Dad, I heard about Tingfeng Pavilion by ident.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s that for?¡± asked Qiao Changshun.


    ¡°It¡¯s for gathering information. As long as you¡¯re willing to provide silver, they can find out anything. So I thought, why don¡¯t we have Tingfeng Pavilion look into mom¡¯s whereabouts?¡±


    Qiao Changshun was silent¡­


    He was stupefied, then nodded in agreement, ¡°Alright.¡±


    When Hua Xiaofeng came on that day, Qiao Xiaomai made a promise to find Zhuang Luhe.


    He had also been thinking about it these few days, noticing that Qiao Xiaomai was not taking action, he was thinking of asking her about it. Now she had brought it up on her own.


    He rubbed his hands together, then added, ¡°Let¡¯s do it. Dami has been calling for her in his sleep many times.¡±


    ¡°What about you, Dad? If Momes back, will you me her?¡± Qiao Xiaomai asked.


    ¡°No, I won¡¯t me her at all. I¡¯m the one who has failed her these years.¡±


    As a man, he failed to protect his wife and children. He had no right to me Zhuang Luhe.


    ¡°Our lives have improved, let¡¯s bring her back, so she can also enjoy some good days.¡± After pausing, Qiao Changshun looked at Qiao Xiaomai, his eyes reddening, ¡°Don¡¯t me her either. She¡¯s always loved you very much.¡±


    People in the vige put boys over girls. He and Zhuang Luhe only had Qiao Dami seven years after Qiao Xiaomai was born. During those seven years, Zhuang Luhe was often bullied by the Sun family and her sisters-inw because she couldn¡¯t have a son.


    Yet Zhuang Luhe never took her anger out on Qiao Xiaomai, she loved her very much. After Qiao Dami was born, this love for her did not change.<div>


    ¡°I know, I can tell from the situation with Zhaodi and Yindi,¡± Qiao Xiaomai nodded.


    The only mistake Zhuang Luhe made was eloping with another man. Her past actions far outweigh this mistake.


    Upon hearing this, Qiao Changshun was relieved, ¡°Then go ahead and do it.¡±


    There¡¯s hope for better days ahead¡­@@novelbin@@<div>

 Chapter 492: 492: She Figured Out How to Cook Bean Sprouts

    Chapter 492: She Figured Out How to Cook Bean Sprouts


    So the matter proceeded as Qiao Xiaomai had imagined. She went to find Tong Sang and let him inquire about Tingfeng Pavilion.


    However, at this stage, she had a new idea.


    Her rtionship with Tong Sang was quite cold right now, like a man who would not marry a woman who refuses to be his wife. Nheless, she would have to offer him a reward for her errands.


    She took out the recipe for maltose, which was to be Tong Sang¡¯s reward for finding Tingfeng Pavilion.


    Another recipe.@@novelbin@@


    Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s family had built its fortune on these recipes.


    The Zhang family, who originally had a deep misunderstanding of Qiao Xiaomai, epted the recipe willingly when they realized they could not use this matter to facilitate a marriage between Qiao Xiaomai and Tong Sang.


    Common people don¡¯t typically make maltose. It is sold in town and is cheaper than cane sugar.


    In the past, peddlers brought a variety of small household items to sell in the vige, and maltose was always a must-have. Families that adored their children were willing to spend a few coins on it.


    Although the profit may be small, it is certainly better than nothing.<div>


    Zhang family eagerly announced, ¡°We will start preparing today and sell sugar along with the vinegar.¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡± Tong Tiehu agreed, ¡°In the future, my eldest son will handle the vinegar, my second son the sugar, and all profit will go into the public coffer.¡±


    Hearing this, Li Rou asked, ¡°Grandfather, do you mean this recipe is only for Erng and his wife to learn?¡±


    Hearing this, Zhu Hongyun quickly said, ¡°If you let me and Erng learn how to make vinegar, then you and big brother can learn how to make maltose.¡±


    Li Rou only smiled, her eyes on Tong Tiehu.


    Tong Tiehu nodded, ¡°Per Erng¡¯s wife¡¯s suggestion, the maltose recipe will be learned by Erng and his wife.¡±


    Hearing this, the smile on LiRou¡¯s face disappeared.


    Tong Tiehu continued, ¡°This is a preparation for future divestment. It¡¯s good for everyone to master some kind of craft. As for now, the profit will still go to the public coffer, which benefits everyone.¡±


    When the profit goes to the public coffer, it will be distributed to everyone equally when the family splits up.


    No one refuted this proposal.


    Zhu Hongyun and Tong Eng, following Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s recipe, hurriedly began preparations.


    Members of the Zhang family also followed out of curiosity.


    Making maltose wasn¡¯tplex. First, select some full grains of wheat and rinse them with water, then let the wheat germinate, like one would do with bean sprouts.


    ¡°Oh?¡± The Zhang family, seeing Tong Eng and Zhu Hongyun busying themselves, suddenly had an idea, ¡°The wheat germinates after being soaked in water ¡ª could Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s bean sprouts be made in the same way?¡±


    At this remark, the crowds who hadn¡¯t dispersed yet fell into stunned silence.


    Tong Sang ¡°¡­¡±


    The bean sprout method had unexpectedly been revealed?


    He turned towards Tong Tiehu.


    Tong Tiehu was also looking at him, sporting an exasperated expression.<div>


    Zhu Hongyun reacted, pping her thigh excitedly, ¡°It must be exactly like this!¡±


    ¡°Eng, go grab some beans!¡± she ordered.


    Tong Eng rushed into the house and promptly came out with half a bag of soybeans, wearing a smile on his face, ¡°Qiao Xiaomai is really naive! She never would¡¯ve guessed that we¡¯d figure out how to make bean sprouts!¡±


    In the past, Tong Tiehu always scolded him for beingzy.<div>


    But now, it seemed Qiao Xiaomai wasn¡¯t very clever either.


    ¡°Qiao Xiaomai sells bean sprouts in the vige for two catty per coin, and it¡¯s one catty per coin in town. Oh, with two new recipes now, our family will surely prosper!¡± Zhu Hongyun said excitedly.


    Qiao Xiaomai made bean sprouts intermittently when she had time. With so many people in Anping Vige, just selling bean sprouts every day could bring in dozens of copper coins, right?


    If they were transported and sold in town, it could be over a hundred copper coins a day.


    If you add it to the profits from maltose and the vinegar shop, the three small businessesbined could match the profit of the previous vinegar shop in town.

 Chapter 493: 493: All Hopes are on Tong Sanlangs Hunting

    Chapter 493: All Hopes are on Tong Sang¡¯s Hunting


    Havinge up with one method, they¡¯d thought of another, filling some of the Tong Family with glee.


    With happiness written across her face, Mrs. Zhang asked, ¡°Is this all the soybeans we have left?¡±


    Tong Eng nodded, ¡°Yes.¡±


    The half bag of soybeans was fromst year, soybeans couldn¡¯t serve as staple food, so the family had always grown a minimal amount each year.


    ¡°Ah no, that won¡¯t do!¡± Mrs. Zhang eximed, smacking her thigh.


    Zhu Hongyun also frowned. How many sprouts would they get from a half bag of soybeans?


    They¡¯d probably sell out in a day or two!


    She looked at Tong Sang, ¡°Sang, you often go to town to sell game, could you buy a few bags of soybeans while you¡¯re at it?¡±


    The amount of game Tong Sang hunt varied, she had intentionally observed, that he consistently earned more than twenty taels from each sale.


    Yet every time he only bought two acres of prime farnd, spending just twenty taels. Surely he must pocket the rest.<div>


    This made Zhu Hongyun green with envy.


    See, having martial arts skills was beneficial, earning silver has never been easier!@@novelbin@@


    Since Tong Sang was so good at earning money, naturally that would make him the best person to buy the soybeans.


    Moreover, if they really could produce bean sprouts, they would certainly need arge number of soybeans in the future, it seems only logical to let Tong Sang take charge of buying them!


    Tong Sang nodded in response to Zhu Hongyun¡¯s words.


    If it would keep these people busy, he didn¡¯t mind spending a little silver.


    True, every time he went hunting, he had some silver left over, but he¡¯d given all of it to Tong Tiehu.


    Tong Tiehu had been the head of the household for so long, it¡¯s only fair he had some silver in his hand in his old age.


    Look at the state of things at home, a little silver was a necessity!


    Upon receiving Tong Sang¡¯s approval, Zhu Hongyun felt ted and ordered Tong Eng to clean the soybeans.


    ¡°Sang, you might as well buy a few more acres ofnd to grow soybeans on,¡± Mrs. Zhang suggested. ¡°Buying soybeans all the time will just waste silver.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s a bitte now to nt soybeans.¡± Tong Xingda interjected.


    ¡°It¡¯s not toote. It¡¯s roughly the same as sweet potatoes, just harvest a few dayste. Even if the beans don¡¯t grow well, it¡¯s still better than constantly having to buy them,¡± Mrs. Zhang argued.


    ¡°All right,¡± Tong Sang had no objection.


    For him, it was merely a matter of hunting for a few more days.


    And so, it was settled.


    When Tong Sang ryed what had transpired to Qiao Xiaomai that evening, she was taken aback for a moment before saying, ¡°That¡¯s pretty clever!¡±


    ¡°Um, you don¡¯t mind, do you?¡± Tong Sang asked.


    ¡°Of course not. I hope these things keep them busy so they don¡¯t have the energy to pester you. But, I¡¯ll have to pretend to object.¡± Qiao Xiaomai said with a smile.<div>


    ¡°Also, isn¡¯t it dangerous going hunting all the time? Your clothes got tornst time.¡±


    Buying soybeans, buyingnd, all the silver they had was because of hunting.


    She had no idea what was actually happening over at Rooster Mountain. What if he was to encounter danger?


    ¡°I got caught on a twig, that¡¯s all. There are no dangerous animals there. If there were, my Master wouldn¡¯t live in the mountains,¡± Tong Sang reassured her, ¡°Don¡¯t worry.¡±<div>


    ¡°But hunting must be strenuous, right?¡±


    She had seen wild chickens and rabbits when collecting firewood in the mountains. They ran so fast that she couldn¡¯t even touch their fur or feathers.


    Not to mention dangerous animals like wild boars.


    ¡°It isn¡¯t hard. In any case, I often need to train and move around. Hunting not only allows me to train but also provides game. It¡¯s great.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai stared at his handsome face for a few seconds before sighing.


    She was worried for Tong Sang.


    Even if he was skilled in martial arts, the Tong family shouldn¡¯t take his assistance for granted.

 Chapter 526: 526: Loving Hugs and High Lifts

    Chapter 526: Loving Hugs and High Lifts


    ¡°At worst, we canpensate them. An old shack, at most, worth twenty taels of silver.¡±


    ¡°What if Sun Junyan decides to sue? The Sun Family did take quite a beating,¡± Tong Sang asked.


    ¡°In that case, we drag it out. It¡¯s tough for an impartial official to mediate in domestic disputes. If we really can¡¯t win the argument, then we¡¯ll just let Hua Xiaofeng serve a few days in jail. As long as she ispensated generously, she¡¯llply.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai insisted that she hadn¡¯t schemed against Hua Xiaofeng. Today, she handed Hua Xiaofeng a set of gold jewelry. If Hua Xiaofeng ends up in jail after all, she would be willing topensate her with silver.


    ¡°The ¡®Daqi Law¡¯ has guidelines on this matter,¡± said Tong Sang. ¡°Expect a sentence of less than ten years.¡±


    ¡°This family used to be so naive. Based on the beating that Sun Family gave to Zhuang L¨¹he, they would¡¯ve been sentenced to life by now,¡± Qiao Xiaomai sighed with regret.


    ¡°It¡¯s different; it happened between an elder and a younger family member¡ªthus treated as a domestic affair. But the dispute between Hua Xiaofeng and Sun Family is more like¡­ a rtive¡¯s quarrel.¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s take that stance. Cen Hong has no rights to interfere with local government affairs. With the local county magistrate on our side, we need not worry Cen Hong escting it. Even if theint reaches Emperor Yongan, I expect the Emperor would not favor him.¡±


    The small domestic dispute may well reach Emperor Yongan, while the disaster in Shuifeng Prefecture has not yet fully stabilized.


    ¡°Let¡¯s see what happens; we¡¯ll deal with it when the timees,¡± Tong Sang sighed.<div>


    Qiao Xiaomai raised her eyebrow, patted his shoulder and smirked, ¡°You seem unhappy, aren¡¯t you?¡±


    ¡°I am,¡± Tong Sang admitted frankly.


    ¡°Would a kiss, a hug or being lifted lighten your mood?¡± Qiao Xiaomai askedughing.


    Tong Sang ¡°¡­¡±


    He twitched at the corner of his mouth, ¡°No need.¡±


    He¡¯s a grown man, requiring a kiss, a hug or being lifted up?


    What the hell?


    ¡°Come on!¡± Qiao Xiaomai stood up, ¡°I can lift you, you know~!¡±


    Tong Sang looked at her smiling alluring face, raised his eyebrow, and also stood up, ¡°Come on, let¡¯s start with the kiss.¡±


    The most intimate thing he and Qiao Xiaomai had ever done was sleeping together in the same bed for a night.


    Besides that, they just hugged and held hands from time to time.


    They hadn¡¯t kissed before.


    No wait, if that time she licked his wound is counted, then they had indeed kissed.


    Thinking about Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s warm and soft lips, Tong Sang¡¯s heart tightened. He pointed at his cheek, ¡°Here.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai smiled at him, nodded, and said, ¡°Deal.¡±


    She took a step forward, her hands on Tong Sang¡¯s shoulders, stood on tiptoe, and pressed her lips against his cheek.


    Sensing that Tong Sang¡¯s body stiffened a bit, she suppressed herughter, stuck out her tongue, and gently licked his face.


    Then she quickly retreated two steps back, put her hands behind her, and smiled at the handsome young man in the moonlight.


    Tong Sang pursed his lips, took a deep breath, and tried to calm down his rapid heartbeat. He said, ¡°Time for a hug.¡±<div>


    ¡°That¡¯s easy.¡± Qiao Xiaomai approached and extended her arms to hug him, her face burying into his neck, rubbing against it heartily.


    ¡°Next, lift me up,¡± Tong Sang suddenly opened his mouth. He put his strong hands on Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s waist, gently exerted his arms, and lifted her up at once.


    Caught off guard, Qiao Xiaomai let out a surprise cry.


    ¡°Shush!¡± Tong Sang whispered, ¡°Wrap your legs around me.¡±<div>


    Being suspended in mid-air, despite Tong Sang¡¯s arms supporting her, Qiao Xiaomai didn¡¯t feel safe. Hearing Tong Sang¡¯s words, her legs immediately wrapped around Tong Sang¡¯s waist like vines.

 Chapter 495: 495 Selling Bean Sprouts

    Chapter 495: Selling Bean Sprouts


    ¡°As Tong Tiehu¡¯s voice dropped, nearly everyone present turned their heads towards Qiao Xiaomai who was standing at the edge of the marketce.


    Everyone knew that bean sprouts were a new vegetable introduced by Qiao Xiaomai.


    Yet now, the Tong Family had started selling them. What was happening?


    Qiao Xiaomai stood at the edge of the marketce, her face taut, expressionless, a subject for everyone¡¯s scrutiny.


    Seeing this, Tong Tiehu coughed lightly and exined loudly, ¡°This skill of growing bean sprouts was thought up by our family and has nothing to do with Qiao Xiaomai.¡±


    ¡°In the future, if Qiao Xiaomai also sells bean sprouts, you all can continue to buy from her as usual.¡±


    That was how he put it, but when he spoke the words ¡°thought it out ourselves¡±, he involuntarily lowered his voice.


    His face was thin, feeling guilty uttering such a im.


    Despite his guilt, Mrs. Zhang didn¡¯t feel an ounce of it. She took a few steps onto the stage, her eyes on the crowd below, a cheerful smile on her face, ¡°Bean sprouts are a penny per pound, there¡¯s this much in a pound. If you have a small family, you could eat it for two days.¡±


    Mrs. Zhang gestured, demonstrating roughly the amount one pound of bean sprouts would yield.<div>


    To be honest, bean sprouts had truly been a pleasant surprise to Mrs. Zhang.


    She never in her wildest dreams imagined that one pound of beans could yield seven or eight pounds of sprouts and, beyond the beans, all they needed was water!


    One pound of beans cost three pennies.


    One pound of beans could sprout into eight pounds of bean sprouts.


    One pound of bean sprouts sold for a penny.


    By doing the math, from one pound of beans, she could make a profit of five pennies.@@novelbin@@


    If they sold ten pounds of bean sprouts each day, then that would be a profit of fifty pennies.


    This was just in the vige. If they were taken and sold in town to the Zuixian Building or Jiji Residence, then they¡¯d make over a hundred copper coins a day.


    Over a hundred copper coins a day adds up to over three thousand copper coins in a month, which is over three taels of silver.


    Add in the profit from malt sugar and vinegar, and this business venture bes entirely feasible!


    Chen Gun, also among the crowd, couldn¡¯t resist asking upon hearing this, ¡°Xiaomai sells the sprouts at a penny for two pounds, why are you selling at a penny per pound?¡±


    ¡°If we sell it at a penny for two pounds, we won¡¯t earn much at all.¡±


    If one pound of beans costs three pennies and bean sprouts were sold at two pennies per pound, then selling all eight pounds of sprouts from one pound of beans would only bring in four pennies.


    By this calction, the profit margin would only be one penny.


    One penny was a bit too little.


    Before, when Qiao Xiaomai was selling it like that, it was to build a good reputation, but the Tong Family didn¡¯t need to curry favor, Tong Tiehu was the vige chief, an actual official.


    The most urgent matter for the Tong Family right now was to make money!


    Mrs. Zhang spoke up, rifying to Chen Gun, ¡°I don¡¯t know how Qiao Xiaomai does it, or what her yield is. All I know is that the price we¡¯ve set is entirely reasonable. We can only produce four pounds of sprouts from one pound of beans, a pound of beans costs three pennies and a pound of sprouts costs a penny. After doing the math, one pound of beans only results in a profit margin of one penny.¡±


    With these words, she arbitrarily halved the yield of bean sprouts, but Mrs. Zhang¡¯s face remained unperturbed.<div>


    When doing business, isn¡¯t it all about talking the talk?


    Hearing this, Chen Gun turned her gaze back to Qiao Xiaomai, her eyes filled with anticipation.


    The Tong Family¡¯s price was too high. They should just let Qiao Xiaomai sell it!


    An unnatural smile appeared on Xiaomai¡¯s taut face, ¡°What price the Tong Family sells at is none of my concern. In the future, I¡¯ll grow sprouts when I have the time, and I won¡¯t when I don¡¯t.¡±<div>


    ¡°By the way, I¡¯ll be nting some fruit trees in theing days. Anyone who is free cane to my ce. I can pay seven pennies a day.¡±


    With that, she turned around and began walking towards her home.


    Tong Sang had already informed her of the Tong Family¡¯s pricing. She remained indifferent.


    Since the Tong Family hade up with a way to grow bean sprouts, she¡¯d let them have at it.


    After all, she wasn¡¯t the Bureau of Commodity Prices. It wasn¡¯t her concern how much the sprouts were being sold for by the Tong Family.


    If people were willing, they¡¯d buy. If not, they won¡¯t eat, after all, it¡¯s just a vegetable.¡±

 Chapter 528: 528: Waiting for the Summon of the Yamen Servant!

    Chapter 528: Waiting for the Summon of the Yamen Servant!


    Sun Junyan asked quite straightforwardly, Qiao Xiaomai nced at Mrs. Sun, who was wrapped like a mummy, and said, ¡°How do you want to settle this privately?¡±


    ¡°Compensation with silver, and apologize by kowtowing.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai raised an eyebrow, ¡°How much silver?¡±


    ¡°Ten thousand taels.¡± Sun Junyan waggled five fingers.


    Qiao Xiaomai burst into a coldughter, ¡°Mrs. Sun¡¯s life isn¡¯t even worth twenty taels.¡±


    Sun Junyan alsoughed, and it was an icy one, ¡°There was an important document from the military camp in the wooden house you burned.¡±


    ¡°What document?¡±


    ¡°Military secret, noment.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai sneered, ¡°Do you think if you say it¡¯s there, it¡¯s there?¡±


    ¡°Well, we can argue this in court. Hua Xiaofeng intentionally injured someone, which means at least ten years in jail. You intentionallymitted arson, and have also burned important military documents. Not only do you have to paypensation, but you also have to go to jail.¡±<div>


    Upon hearing Sun Junyan¡¯s words, Qiao Xiaomai understood.


    Even if there weren¡¯t any so-called documents, Cen Hong and Sun Junyan could have made up one out of thin air by now.


    As for how ordinary civilians are punished for destroying important military documents, the Daqi Laws do not have a specification.


    Laws aren¡¯tprehensive even in theter generations, let alone here, where the Daqi Laws have many loopholes.


    With this thought, she said, ¡°Then let¡¯s go by thew.¡±


    Ten thousand taels that would be roughly the same amount as all her possessions put together, Sun Junyan was trying to make her bankrupt.


    Let¡¯s go to court then!


    Sun Junyan nodded, then turned to look at Qiao Changshun, ¡°Second brother, even if our kinship has ended, you are still a piece of meat fallen from our mother. I heard from her that she loved you dearly when you were young. Now that she¡¯s beaten like this by your daughter Qiao Xiaomai, don¡¯t you have anything to say?¡±


    Qiao Changshun was already half-dazed. In his vague memory, Mrs. Sun did treat him well when he was a few years old.


    Then he didn¡¯t know why, but Mrs. Sun started to dislike him.


    All these years, Mrs. Sun always had a grim face when facing him. He had never even imagined her in such a miserable state.


    Qiao Xiaomai gave him a nce and sneered, ¡°Sun Junyan, this was done by Hua Xiaofeng, and I didn¡¯t touch Mrs. Sun.¡±


    ¡°Hua Xiaofeng was avenging my mother, she was right to hit Mrs. Sun. Even if it means going to jail, if given the chance, we would still do it.¡±


    ¡°Fine, you¡¯re eloquent, just wait for the yamen runners to summon you.¡± Sun Junyan said and got on the donkey cart.


    But before leaving, he turned to Qiao Changshun, ¡°Second brother, our mother indeed made many mistakes in the past, but everything she did, she did for me. If you want to hold a grudge, hold it against me, not her. Our father¡¯s health isn¡¯t good, she raised the few of us on her own, it wasn¡¯t easy.¡±


    ¡°Now that your life is better, do you still hold grudges against her for the past?¡±


    His words sounded reasonable, but they were like a needle piercing Qiao Changshun¡¯s heart. He quivered his lips, wanting to say something, but Qiao Xiaomai snorted, ¡°A dog that now knows how to talk.¡±


    ¡°But, can your words cure my father¡¯s crippled leg?¡±


    ¡°Can your words bring my mother back? Can your words return the things you plundered from my family? Can your words erase all the past times my mother was beaten?¡±<div>


    ¡°Now that my family is better, you¡¯vee to talk nicely. If my family were still in the same situation as before, I bet you would keep draining us dry.¡±


    Having said that, Qiao Xiaomai turned to Qiao Changshun again.


    Honestly, she was a bit annoyed.


    She had made it clear before, everything depended on Qiao Changshun¡¯s reaction. Now that Sun Junyan yed the emotional card, she blurted out like before.<div>


    She should have waited to see Qiao Changshun¡¯s reaction!

 Chapter 497: 497: Telling Your Father about Matchmaking!

    Chapter 497: Telling Your Father about Matchmaking!


    The Sun Family?


    Qiao Xiaomai paused. Although she was familiar with the voice, it had been a long time since the Sun Family had visited.


    Qiao Zhaodi stood up, ¡°Sister Mai, should we open the door?¡±


    ¡°Open it,¡± Qiao Xiaomai nodded.


    You can¡¯t avoid dealing with the likes of the Sun Family, you have to face them head-on.


    At these words, Qiao Zhaodi quickly went to open the door.


    With the gate opened, a familiar old face from the Sun Family appeared. She was dressed in silk clothes, wearing a silver hairpin on her head, silver earrings on her ears, and a silver ring on her finger, holding a banana leaf fan in her hand, standing straight up, the perfect picture of a wealthy old matron.


    Seeing Qiao Zhaodi, she immediately furrowed her brows, ¡°Why is it you?¡±


    ¡°Grandmother,¡± called Qiao Zhaodi as she turned to walk towards Qiao Xiaomai.


    In the past, the Sun Family had never treated the sisters with any respect, and both sisters were quite afraid of them.<div>


    Seeing Qiao Zhaodi ignoring her, the Sun Family matriarch frowned and entered the courtyard.


    Upon seeing Qiao Changshun and Qiao Xiaomai, she quickly forget the sisters.


    The sisters were now ves and had nothing to do with her. She hade to see Qiao Changshun today on serious business!


    ¡°Changsun,¡± she forced a chrysanthemum-like smile on her face and walked towards the tree.


    Qiao Changshun held the new clothes in his hand and said awkwardly, ¡°Mother.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Qiao Xiaomai immediately scrunched her eyebrows, ¡°Father, have you forgotten the imperial decree handed down by Emperor Yongan?¡±


    Their ties were severed, and it was done so formally in front of Emperor Yongan¡¯s court!


    How could he call her mother!


    ¡°Call her Sun Family,¡± she spoke coldly.


    Qiao Changshun clenched the clothes in his hands, his face reddening.


    Could he really address her directly as Sun Family?


    No, no, no.


    He could never do that, even if their ties were severed, in his heart, she would still be his mother, and behaving otherwise was inconceivable to him.


    The matron from the Sun Family watched all of this, her smile never leaving her face, ¡°Changsun, since you¡¯re ustomed to calling me mother, then continue to do so. After all, it¡¯s just a formality. We, indeed, have severed our ties.¡±


    Everyone in the courtyard was surprised at her words.


    Since when had the matron from the Sun Family be so agreeable?


    And so understanding and reasonable!


    The sun must be rising from the west!


    It was as if she hadn¡¯t noticed the people¡¯s astonishment. She nted herself on a stool and gestured to Qiao Yindi, ¡°Go, fetch me a bowl of water.¡±<div>


    Walking here in the sweltering midday heat had left her parched.


    As she spoke, she fluttered the fan in her hand.


    The fan was made from white silk, embroidered with a scene of butterflies ying among flowers.


    Qiao Xiaomai looked at the fan, scoffed, and said, ¡°Given our situation, the mere fact that I didn¡¯t kick you out immediately is a sign of goodwill. If you have something to say, speak quickly.¡±<div>


    You want to drink water?


    The water in her house was all from Spiritual Spring. She¡¯d sooner give it to dogs than let the Sun Family drink it.


    Upon hearing these words, the smile on the matron from the Sun Family froze momentarily. However, she didn¡¯t get angry; instead, she smiled even more intensely.


    She looked at Qiao Changshun, fluttered her fan, and her smile widened, ¡°Changsun, there¡¯s good news!¡±@@novelbin@@


    Qiao Changshun stared nkly at the woman from the Sun Family, his face vacant.


    He was thinking about when was thest time she smiled at him like this, he didn¡¯t pay attention to her words at all.


    Qiao Xiaomai frowned and asked, ¡°What good news?¡±


    ¡°A marriage proposal. I am here to negotiate a good marriage for your father. With your father¡¯sme leg, we need to find a kind-hearted person to take good care of him,¡± the Sun Family matron¡¯s face breaking into a smile as blooming as a chrysanthemum.

 Chapter 498: 498 Waiting for Luhe to Return

    Chapter 498: Waiting for Luhe to Return


    Propose marriage?


    To Qiao Changshun?


    Qiao Xiaomai let out a cold scoff, ¡°Don¡¯t bother yourself with that, my mom just went out to work and make money. Who are you nning to make a marriage proposal to?¡±


    ¡°My ce is not wee to you, leave.¡±


    The Sun Family was taken aback.


    What?


    Go find Zhuang L¨¹he?


    Her eyes widened intorge circles, her face filled with disbelief, ¡°That shameful woman who abandoned her husband and child, why on earth would you seek her out?¡±


    ¡°My mother went out for work, stay out of her business. Get out, we don¡¯t wee you here!¡± Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s face covered with frost.


    Zhuang L¨¹he¡¯s story has always been that she went out to work, and this has never changed.<div>


    When Zhuang L¨¹hees back, the vigers will surely gossip. By that time, she will use these four words ¡®went out to work¡¯ to shut everyone¡¯s mouth.


    Anyway, since no one has seen Zhuang L¨¹he run away, her mother just went out to work. She will not tolerate anyone making wild guesses about her in front of her.


    Now, the Sun Family was making such ims right in front of her.


    She spotted arge broom for sweeping the yard at the entrance of the shed. She walked over in a few steps, picked up the broom and said, ¡°Are you leaving or not?!¡±@@novelbin@@


    The broom was made of bamboo, about three or four meters long. Only the bamboo sticks remained as all the bamboo leaves had fallen off. The Sun Family had once beaten Zhuang L¨¹he with this kind of broom, leaving her neck and face covered in bloody welts.


    Seeing the broom, the Sun Family couldn¡¯t help but recall the old days. Upon seeing Qiao Xiaomai pick up the broom, she stood up reflexively.


    But she didn¡¯t leave, instead she walked over and stood behind Qiao Changshun.


    She let Qiao Changshun shield her, only half of her body was exposed, her face wore an ¡®I mean well¡¯ expression, and she said, ¡°Xiaomai, we all know what your mother has been doing. Over the years, your father, you, and Dami have not wronged her in any way. And yet, she just abandoned you all to elope with another man, do you really want to find her and bring her back?!¡±


    ¡°Stop your nonsense! My mom went out to work! We¡¯ve severed ties with you and you still smear her name. Sun Family, are you deliberately trying to make us miserable?¡± Qiao Xiaomai, holding the big broom, stomped against Qiao Changshun, her small face filled with rage, ¡°Dad, get out of the way!¡±


    At this point, Qiao Changshun had already recovered his senses. Gazing at the furious Qiao Xiaomai, he instinctively spread his arms out in a blocking gesture, ¡°Xiaomai, don¡¯t do anything silly.¡±


    ¡°Who¡¯s acting stupid?!¡± Seeing that Qiao Changshun was actually protecting the Sun Family, Xiaomai, who was pretending to be angry initially, was genuinely mad now. She raised her voice, ¡°Did you hear what she was talking about? Do you really want to propose marriage?!¡±


    ¡°Where did my mom wrong you over these years? It¡¯s you who failed to protect her! She¡¯s just gone out to work, but you let the Sun Family nder her name?!¡±


    Truth be told, over the years, Zhuang L¨¹he hasn¡¯t done anything wrong to Qiao Changshun.


    Even if she eloped with another man, Qiao Changshun had no right to criticize her.


    The only person she had wronged was Qiao Dami and Xiaomai. As a mother, she left when her two children needed her the most. This was a scar that could never be erased in their lifetime.


    Upon hearing Xiaomai¡¯s words, Qiao Changshun quickly shook his head, ¡°No, she¡¯s old, if yoush out on her and something happens, what would you do?¡±


    ¡°I also have no intention of proposing marriage!¡±


    After he finished speaking, he turned to look at the Sun Family, ¡°Mother, you should go home, I will wait for Luhe to return.¡±


    Upon hearing this, the Sun Family couldn¡¯t help but jab him with her finger, cursing loudly, ¡°You idiot! She has been tainted by men. The green hat you¡¯re wearing is even greener than the leaves on the willow tree in your yard! You¡¯re lucky that such a woman hasn¡¯t been thrown into a pigsty, and you still want to continue living with her? Has your brain been kicked by a donkey?!¡±<div>

 Chapter 499: 499: If You Have the Guts, Sue Me

    Chapter 499: If You Have the Guts, Sue Me


    ¡°I wronged her, she was upset and left, I don¡¯t me her.¡± Qiao Changshun¡¯s face was full of sorrow.@@novelbin@@


    Qiao Xiaomai was right just now, it was he who failed to protect Zhuang Luhe, not Zhuang Luhe who had wronged him.


    Upon hearing this, Sun raised her eyebrows. One hand on her hip and the other hand holding a fan, she yelled at Qiao Changshun, ¡°What about right and wrong?! She¡¯s a woman who chose to marry you. What¡¯s wrong with suffering a bit? All the women in this vige have to endure hardships, don¡¯t they? Why aren¡¯t they all running away?!¡±


    ¡°Your father was ill back then, and I led you brothers through hard times, and I never ran away?!¡±


    ¡°Zhuang Luhe is just a despicable woman who can¡¯t take a bit of hardship! Now, she¡¯s still a despicable woman who¡¯s been defiled by another man! Bringing such a person into our household is a disgrace to the Qiao family!¡±


    Qiao Changshun hung his head in shame, ¡°Mother, please don¡¯t say anymore, please leave.¡±


    ¡°Leave? I¡¯m telling you, if you dare to go find her, I¡¯ll dare to report her to the County Government Office! That such a disgraceful woman who¡¯s been defiled by another man dares to step foot in the Qiao¡¯s house again, she must be out of her mind! Abandoning her husband and child, such a despicable woman deserves to be drowned in a pig cage!¡±


    Sun revealed her shrill and harsh side, her loud voice ringing in everyone¡¯s ears, with saliva flying and a ferocious look on her face.


    Qiao Changshun panicked on hearing this, could the county magistrate really handle such matters?


    Qiao Xiaomai snorted and retorted, ¡°Go ahead and report her, Sun, I¡¯d like to see how the county magistrate will rule. There¡¯s no such thing in the ¡®Daqi Law¡¯!¡±<div>


    The previous dynasty took elopement as a serious crime; both men and women had to be punished.


    Males were to be expelled from their families, theirnds and properties confiscated, and they would also be beaten harshly.


    The punishment for women was even harsher. Those who eloped would be concubines, and they were regarded as outcasts by their parents and all citizens. Most of them would either be beaten to death or drowned after being caught.


    But Daqi was different.


    The ¡®Daqi Laws¡¯ did not have any provisions regarding elopement. ording to Tong Sang, if such an event urred, it would be handled by the family itself.


    But now, the Qiao family could hardly be called a family, and even if it was a family, Qiao Xiaomai would make sure to separate herself from it.


    So, everything Sun said at the moment was nonsense to her.


    Seeing her fearless attitude, Sun stomped her foot in anger. What¡¯s the matter? Does the government office ignore such things now?


    Uncertain about what to do, she decided to put this issue aside and ask Sun Junyan when she got home. She spoke to the point, ¡°I thought you were smart, but why are you being so stupid now? Zhuang Luhe doesn¡¯t want you anymore, she nearly caused you to be sold!¡±


    ¡°As a good mother, she should have let herself be sold instead of letting you get sold!¡±


    Upon hearing this, Qiao Xiaomai sneered, ¡°Sun, you are the one who wanted to sell me. You wanted to sell me to a brothel.¡±


    ¡°I was thinking about your father then. If I didn¡¯t sell you, should I have sold the house? Should I have let your father work as aborer with hisme leg? Failure to pay taxes means performing hardbor!¡±


    ¡°Stop trying to make yourself look good!¡± Qiao Xiaomai was getting impatient with her. She waved the broom in her hand, ¡°Are you leaving or not?¡±


    Sun red at the broom for a moment, stomped her foot helplessly, and then reached out to grab Qiao Changshun¡¯s arm, ¡°Changshun, walk me out!¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t go!¡± Qiao Xiaomai intervened immediately upon seeing this.


    Qiao Changshun sighed, he handed the clothes in his hand to Qiao Zhaodi next to him, ¡°Xiaomai, calm down, let me talk to her properly about this.¡±

 Chapter 500: 500: Finally Taking Action Against the Sun Family

    Chapter 500: Finally Taking Action Against the Sun Family


    ¡°There¡¯s nothing to discuss, the Sun Family should get lost!¡± Qiao Xiaomai said with a stern face.


    ¡°Xiaomai, calm down. You know her temperament, let me handle it.¡± Qiao Changshun said, stepping towards the door, ¡°Mother,e with me.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai was well aware of the Sun Family¡¯s stubbornness, never ceasing until they achieved their goal.


    But precisely because she knew this, she wouldn¡¯t let the Sun Family speak a word, instead, she wanted to boot them out directly.


    ¡°There¡¯s nothing to speak about.¡± She raised her arm, blocked Qiao Changshun with the broom, and coldly said to the Sun Family, ¡°You bullied my mother so severely that she had to go out to work.¡±


    ¡°Not only are you ruining her reputation now, but you also want to propose a marriage for my father, do you really think I¡¯m a pushover?¡±


    ¡°Do you really think this ce is somewhere you can act arrogantly?¡±


    After saying that, she turned to Qiao Zhaodi and Qiao Yindi, ¡°Zhaodi, Yindi, take my father away!¡±


    The Sun Family won¡¯t give up until they get what they want?


    She would drive them out!<div>


    Upon hearing this, Qiao Zhaodi and Qiao Yindi quickly ran over to pull Qiao Changshun away.


    Being sisters who were used to heavy farm work, they easily managed to handle Changshun, who had ame leg.


    Qiao Changshun was promptly pulled away.


    Seeing this, Qiao Xiaomai lifted the broom in her hand and ruthlessly swatted at the Sun Family, ¡°Stop your incessant babbling!¡±


    The Sun Family had been on guard against Qiao Xiaomai and her broom. Seeing Qiao Changshun being taken away, she quickly stepped back.


    The broom swatted in front of her but didn¡¯t hit her.


    But it still scared her quite a bit.


    She was usually the one wielding the broom to show off, but now she was the one being hit. It was terrifying!


    She wanted to back off; Qiao Xiaomai was a madwoman who dared to chop even herself.


    ¡°Fine, fine, I¡¯m leaving!¡±


    Her eyes fixed on the broom in Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s hand, she began to move towards the door along the wall, ¡°You put down the broom, I tell you, if you hurt me, you¡¯ll have topensate a hundred and eighty taels of silver, I won¡¯t let this slide!¡±


    ¡°As long as I feel satisfied, even a thousand taels will suffice!¡± Qiao Xiaomai snorted, raising her broom once again to attack Sun Family.


    Seeing the fear in the Sun Family¡¯s face, she screamed out, her small body swiftly running towards the door like a rabbit.


    Qiao Xiaomai really meant to hurt her this time, but she didn¡¯t stay put and chased after her, ¡°Stop!¡±


    The Sun Family immediately cried out like a ughtered pig, ¡°Murder! Murder! Help!!!¡±


    Apanying her screams, the tip of Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s broomnded on her.


    A few strands of her hair got caught in the broom, making her once neat hairstyle disheveled.


    With this, her screams grew even more miserable, ¡°Murder!!!¡±@@novelbin@@


    With her screams ringing out, she finally managed to escape the courtyard. She didn¡¯t have time to celebrate and quickly ran in the direction of the old Qiao Familypound.<div>


    God, she was scared to death!


    She almost lost her life to Qiao Xiaomai!


    Seeing this, Qiao Xiaomai felt regret for being a step too slow and not causing actual harm to the Sun Family, but she didn¡¯t chase after her.


    This time the Sun Family would be scared enough, they probably wouldn¡¯t dare toe again.<div>


    Staring at the broom in her hand, she hummed and put it back in its ce.


    This tool was not handy to deal with a woman like the Sun Family, who could run like a rabbit. She had to get Tong Sang to make a handy one for her.

 Chapter 501: 501: What are you scared of? Lets make a fuss!

    Chapter 501: What are you scared of? Let¡¯s make a fuss!


    Qiao Changshun was dumbstruck as he looked at Qiao Xiaomai, ¡°Xiaomai, you¡­¡±


    ¡°What about me? You want to protect her, huh? Then go live with her. Dami and I will be fine here.¡± Qiao Xiaomai red at Qiao Changshun.


    How numb must his brain be to still protect the Sun Family after they had caused so much harm!


    Were the words of the Sun Family even human?


    Since he had decided to bring back Zhuang Lu?he, he should have stuck with the story that Zhuang Lu?he had gone out to work.


    Now that the Sun Family has thrown out cruel words in advance, what should he do at this time?


    He should be jumping up and pping the Sun Family in the face!


    He must be firm, very firm!


    Qiao Changshun was actually still protecting the Sun Family, just what the hell was going on?


    ¡°Dad, do you not want my mom toe back? If you don¡¯t want her back, I¡¯ll stop asking people to look for her. Since we¡¯re doing well, we can save some silver without her, let her suffer outside.¡±<div>


    At these words, Qiao Changshun was taken aback, and he quickly shook his hand, ¡°No, I didn¡¯t mean that.¡±


    ¡°We must find her!¡±


    ¡°Then what was your attitude just now? Letting the Sun Family nder my mom, you know how sharp the Sun Family¡¯s tongue is, can you trust them not to spread rumors about her in the vige? How will she go out when shees back?¡±


    ¡°Wasn¡¯t the humiliation in the past enough? It was understandable that we couldn¡¯t go against the Sun Family when we were poor, but now we¡¯re the richest family in the vige. Why should we still let that old woman from the Sun Family nder my mom?!¡±


    ¡°Do you deliberately not want my mom toe back? Do you want to find a young and pretty wife?!¡±


    These words were not just heartbreaking for Qiao Changshun, they cut him to the core, like a stab wound.


    Qiao Xiaomai did it on purpose.


    She wanted to cut Qiao Changshun with her sharp words.


    For a long time, she had despised the passive attitude this family had towards their situation. Even with filial piety, why should they live so aggrieved?


    Dammit, make a fuss!


    Surely they were damned either way, so what was there to fear?


    This was the creed she always adhered to. So, whenever the Sun family came to cause trouble and Qiao Changshun couldn¡¯t do anything, she was actually very angry.


    Her own leg was disabled, her daughter-inw had run away, her real daughter was dead, her adopted daughter was to be sold to the brothel, damn it, he was still bearing it!@@novelbin@@


    However, since Qiao Changshun was so traditional, even though she was angry, she never showed it. She gave him time to change.


    Months passed, and he did make some progress.


    But now, at a key moment, he faltered again.


    This was his wife who had already run away once, and yet Qiao Changshun was still so indecisive.


    She was really going to be mad!


    She was going to get married in the future. If Qiao Changshun was always this submissive, he would definitely be controlled by the Sun Family again.<div>


    Even if they lived in the same vige, there would still be times she wouldn¡¯t be able to consider everything.


    Thinking about the possible situations in the future, damn it, she was going to explode with anger!


    Qiao Changshun never expected Qiao Xiaomai to say such poisonous words. He trembled several times, and finally fell straight to the ground.


    Qiao Zhaodi and Qiao Yindi were standing next to him, attempting to help him up.<div>


    Qiao Xiaomai shouted, ¡°Zhaodi, Yindi, both of you stay out of this!¡±


    At hermand, Qiao Zhaodi and Qiao Yindi immediately dared not move.


    Dami was nearby, hugging her clothes. Her little face was filled with confusion, and she was scared to move as well.

 Chapter 502: 502: It Serves You Right to Be Bullied by the Sun Family

    Chapter 502: It Serves You Right to Be Bullied by the Sun Family


    Qiao Changshun¡¯s eyes welled up with tears, shaking his head vigorously, ¡°No, no, I didn¡¯t have such intentions, I was hoping for your mother toe back¡­¡±


    ¡°And what after shees back? Like before, enduring people¡¯s using fingers and harsh words, is that how you wish her to return?¡± Qiao Xiaomai didn¡¯t ease up on him when she saw him fall, her words cutting like a sharp knife.


    ¡°No, that¡¯s not what I meant¡­¡± Qiao Changshun was now fully in tears.


    He couldn¡¯t answer Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s probing questions, but he was absolutely not considering finding a young wife, absolutely not.


    He was just, he was just used to the old days.


    Last year, with all those rumors and gossips, the Sun Family cursed him and Zhuang Luhe for their unfilial practices, damning them with repercussions.


    The vigers¡¯ looks were indeed different, but they didn¡¯t say anything unpleasant to their faces.


    They endured through that time, and life went on as usual¡­


    What the Sun Family said just now was lightpared to the past usations at Zhuang Luhe, he really didn¡¯t think too much, didn¡¯t think too far¡­


    He even couldn¡¯t quite understand Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s rage, the Sun Family didn¡¯t just curse in the past, they even hit her, but Qiao Xiaomai didn¡¯t say anything¡­<div>


    ¡°I believe that¡¯s exactly what you mean!¡± Qiao Xiaomai snorted heavily, ¡°You¡¯ve already talked respectfully to the emperor, but still let that shrew of the Sun Family boss around and bully you, It seems you¡¯ll be unable to stand upright in this life and be bullied by the Sun Family forever!¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s the point of my mothering back? To continue to endure the Sun Family¡¯s bullying?¡±


    Hearing this, Qiao Changsun quivered, ¡°No, absolutely not, I want your mother toe back all the time¡­¡±


    ¡°Why didn¡¯t you defend her when the Sun Family was insulting her just now? If she has to endure the Sun Family negativements once she¡¯s back, what¡¯s the point of hering back? I guess she would rather work hard outside!¡±


    Qiao Changshun choked back his exnation, ¡°I just wanted to rify things with her.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s there to rify? What is there to say with a blood-sucking and man-eating shrew? I let her cross our doorstep only for your sake. If she dares toe next time, dares to cross our threshold, I¡¯ll break her legs!¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai was filled with anger as she told Qiao Zhaodi, ¡°Zhaodi, chop the stool which Sun Family¡¯s woman sat on with an axe and use it for firewood!¡±


    Qiao Zhaodi answered with an ¡°oh¡±, and really went to get an axe.


    Qiao Xiaomai then looked towards Qiao Dami standing aside, ¡°Dami,e over, don¡¯t mind our father, let him deal with the Sun Family!¡±


    Upon hearing this, doubt flickered across Qiao Dami¡¯s young face as he toddled towards Qiao Xiaomai.


    Right, the Sun Family was so fierce, and they just insulted his mom too.


    He hadn¡¯t seen his mom for a long time!


    Why was his father still siding with the Sun Family?


    ¡°Dami¡­¡± Seeing Qiao Dami was actually heading towards Qiao Xiaomai, Qiao Changshun¡¯s tears fell even more intensely.


    ¡°Dami, let¡¯s go to the town.¡± Qiao Xiaomai hummed, taking Qiao Dami¡¯s small hand, ¡°Sister will take you shopping, we¡¯re noting back tonight.¡±


    Qiao Dami responded with an ¡°oh¡±, agreeing.


    Seeing this, Qiao Changshun quickly crawled a few steps with his limp leg, ¡°Dami, don¡¯t me your father! I¡¯m just used to it, I¡¯ve been calling her mother for decades¡­¡±


    How could he just watch her being beaten by the broom¡­@@novelbin@@


    Qiao Dami, still young, didn¡¯t understand Qiao Changshun¡¯s thoughts.<div>


    All he knew was that his grandmother hade to scold his mother again. She¡¯d previously driven his mother to work outside to avoid her, now she came to scold her again, it¡¯s too much!


    And they were talking about kin?


    He has a mom, what kin are they talking about?!


    <div>

 Chapter 503: 503: You must have followed the Sun Family yourself!

    Chapter 503: You must have followed the Sun Family yourself!


    ¡°Dami, let¡¯s go.¡± Seeing that Qiao Dami was ignoring Qiao Changshun, Qiao Xiaomai started to leave.


    ¡°Hey, Xiaomai, what are we gonna do if grannyes back after you¡¯re gone?¡± Qiao Zhaodi put down the axe and hurriedly walked forward a few steps to persuade her.


    ¡°Yeah, Xiaomai, you know how stubborn granny is. If you¡¯re not around, she might just bring that woman home directly.¡± Qiao Yindi also warned.


    Qiao Xiaomai ¡°¡­¡±


    She stopped in her tracks.


    Knowing how shameless the Sun Family was, it was entirely possible they would pull such a stunt.


    She turned to Qiao Yindi, ¡°Yindi, go and see what¡¯s happening in the old courtyard.¡±


    When Madame Sun came earlier, she didn¡¯t look like she had taken a long journey; she must have prepped in the old courtyard.


    Even if they really did bring a woman over, she would probably be ced in the old courtyard first.


    Qiao Yindi readily agreed and ran out of the door.<div>


    Only then did Qiao Xiaomai turn to Qiao Changshun and huffed, ¡°Dad, go work in the fields. Dami and I need some peace.¡±


    Even though it¡¯s hard work on the farm, they usually took a break during the hottest part of the day.


    Asking Qiao Changshun to work in the fields at the moment was a clear indication she didn¡¯t want him to befortable.


    Upon hearing this, Qiao Changshun wiped the tears from his face and continued to exin, ¡°Xiaomai, I¡¯m just used to¡­¡±


    ¡°If you really want to continue serving the Sun Family, I won¡¯t stop you. Go live with her in that shanty.¡± Qiao Xiaomai huffed.


    ¡°After my mother returns, we can split the family. You can go with the Sun Family and the three of us will live by ourselves!¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t¡­I didn¡¯t! I won¡¯t do it again, I promise!¡± Qiao Changshun quickly shook his head.


    Upon hearing this, Qiao Xiaomai rolled her eyes, led Qiao Dami inside, and closed the door.


    This blockhead Qiao Changshun was literally driving her to death.


    Qiao Changshun sat in the courtyard, tears streaming down his face. After Qiao Zhaodi chopped up the stool that Madame Sun had sat on earlier, she went to him, ¡°Uncle, get up.¡±


    Qiao Changshun hummed in acknowledgment and got up groggily.


    ¡°Let me fetch you some water so you can wash your face.¡± Qiao Zhaodi went to get a basin of water.


    After he washed his face, she said, ¡°Uncle, why don¡¯t we go and collect some firewood together?¡±


    It would let Qiao Changshun clear his mind, and give Qiao Xiaomai some peace.


    Upon hearing this, Qiao Changshun sighed, rubbed his tired eyes and agreed.


    After Qiao Changshun and Qiao Zhaodi left, Qiao Xiaomai and Qiao Dami walked outside.


    Qiao Dami¡¯s face was no longer upset thanks to Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s words earlier.@@novelbin@@


    The gloom and anger on Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s own face had also subsided.


    Bing ill from anger was not worth it, especially if it was because of Qiao Changshun¡¯s stubbornness.<div>


    Soon, Qiao Yindi came back from the old yard with the information needed, ¡°Xiaomai, only Granny and Uncle are in the old courtyard. There¡¯s no strange woman there.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s Sun Junyan doing?¡± Qiao Xiaomai raised an eyebrow.


    ¡°He¡¯s chatting with grandfather in the courtyard about the provincial examination. I didn¡¯t really understand. Granny is chatting with Aunt Meipan, Aunt and her family are in the house and haven¡¯te out.¡±


    An examination?¡± Qiao Xiaomai chuckled.<div>


    She nearly forgot that before Sun Junyan became Cen Hong¡¯sckey, he was a schr of Bailu Academy.


    The three-year provincial exams wereing up, and Sun Junyan would be taking part.


    Moreover, who was behind Madame Sun¡¯s sudden wish to arrange a marriage for Qiao Changshun?


    Was it Madame Sun herself, Sun Junyan, or even Cen Hong?

 Chapter 504: 504: Helping Sun Family again, Lets Separate

    Chapter 504: Helping Sun Family again, Let¡¯s Separate


    After a moment of thought, Qiao Xiaomai said, ¡°In the next few days, you sisters will take turns to apany my father. If the Sun Family dares to confront my father with an unfamiliar woman, you¡¯ll beat her, fiercely. If you damage her, I¡¯llpensate with silver.¡±


    She needs to frequently visit the manor on the other side, and it¡¯s impossible to stick with Qiao Changshun all the time.


    It¡¯s highly possible that the Sun Family might take advantage of when Qiao Changshun is working in the fields. She must be prepared for this.


    Upon hearing this, Qiao Yindi was taken aback, then nodded.


    However, her nod was filled with hesitation.


    Beat¡­ and fiercely?


    As an ox and horse, she never thought of these things before.


    Qiao Xiaomai noticed her hesitation and encouraged her, ¡°I hit the Sun Family with a broom just now, and you felt very satisfied, right? Don¡¯t be afraid, you should be tough when dealing with such evil people, because they are bullies who are fearful of the tough.¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s not really a bad person, someone who is callous about taking lives, she values her life, and she is just trying to live a better life by exploiting our family. She will back down as long as you stand up to her.¡±


    After hearing this, Qiao Yindi awkwardly said, ¡°Sister Xiaomai, she¡¯s still my grandmother.¡±@@novelbin@@<div>


    This tactic could work on others, but the Sun Family is her grandmother, and she hasn¡¯t severed ties with her.


    Upon hearing this, Qiao Xiaomai blinked, she¡¯d been so blinded by her anger that she¡¯d forgotten about this.


    She rubbed her face with her hand, ¡°Then just hit the women she introduces to my father.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll find a way to get you both a handy tool. Don¡¯t be afraid, as long as you don¡¯t kill them, I will cover for both of you. Besides, it would be best to hit the Sun Family a few times during the chaos, as long as you don¡¯t seriously hurt her, it will be fine, I¡¯ll cover for you both.¡±


    ¡°Okay,¡± Qiao Yindi replied nervously.


    Even the Sun Family?


    This was a bit terrifying¡­


    By the evening, Qiao Changshun and Qiao Zhaodi returned with collected firewood. Qiao Xiaomai instructed the two sisters, Qiao Zhaodi and Qiao Yindi, to go home while she went into the kitchen to cook.


    However, she only cooked for herself and Qiao Dami.


    Does Qiao Changshun want to eat?


    Well, he can cook for himself!


    Qiao Changshun was caught off guard by Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s move, he sighed, had no appetite, and just gnawed on a cold steamed bun leftover from lunch.


    ¡°Xiaomai, I¡­¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t need to exin,¡± Qiao Xiaomai interrupted him, ¡°Let¡¯s see how you behave the next time the Sun Familyes to make a fuss. If it¡¯s the same as today, let¡¯s divide our family after my mother returns.¡±


    ¡°If you¡¯re willing to follow the Sun Family, then follow her. I won¡¯t allow the Sun Family to step into this house again.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Qiao Changshun¡¯s eyes reddened again.


    Qiao Xiaomai was driving him away.


    ¡°As for the rumors in the vige¡­ the people in the vige are actually very nice and won¡¯t gossip.¡±


    ¡°How would you know they don¡¯t talk behind our backs? And how would you know that my mother doesn¡¯t suffer?¡±<div>


    ¡°Now that the Sun Family has started to scold you to your face, if you can bear it, I can¡¯t. I¡¯ve built this family up, earned a lot, in order to livefortably and never return to a life lower than that of pigs or dogs.¡±


    ¡°Father, I¡¯ve said what I needed to say. Let¡¯s see your behavior next time, and if nothing changes, we¡¯ll divide the family.¡±


    After speaking these cold words, Qiao Xiaomai stopped talking and started to eat her meal.


    Qiao Dami, holding arge steamed bun, shoved her head into her little bowl in front of her.<div>


    Dad always sides with grandmother, ugh!


    Qiao Changshun stared at his two children, unable to swallow the steamed bun in his mouth,


    So bitter.

 Chapter 537: 537: Apologizing with a Smile

    Chapter 537: Apologizing with a Smile


    ¡°Pleasee in,¡± Qiao Xiaomai tilted her body, inviting Zhang Family and Zhu Hongyun inside.


    As they sat down under the willow tree, she washed a few peaches and ced them on the table. Therge, pinkish-white peaches looked quite appetizing. Xiaomai smiled and said, ¡°Please try some. These were a gift from His Highness Wei yesterday. He brought them from the Capital City. They¡¯re very sweet.¡±


    His Highness Wei.


    Upon hearing these four words, both Zhang Family and Zhu Hongyun revealed a moment of respect in their gaze towards the peaches.


    ¡°Xiaomai, are you close with His Highness Wei?¡± Zhang Family carefully picks up a peach. The fruit felt soft as she cautiously peeled it, making conversation.


    Zhu Hongyun too reached out for one, and silently began peeling and eating.


    Xiaomaiughed, ¡°Somewhat. His Highness Wei has a love for fine food. He doesn¡¯t mind my humble culinary skills so we often see each other.¡±


    ¡°You are being too modest. Your cooking skills are top-notch!¡± Zhang Family gave Xiaomai a thumbs-up.


    Xiaomai chuckled, her eyes then shifted to the pieces of cloth on the table. Pretending to know nothing, she asked with a hint of confusion, ¡°What are these for, Auntie?¡±


    ¡°Uh¡­¡± Zhang Family paused the peeling and hesitantly asked, ¡°You¡¯ve turned fifteen this year, haven¡¯t you?¡±<div>


    ¡°In a month,¡± said Xiaomai.


    ¡°That¡¯s not young anymore. Back in our hometown, you would be of marriageable age.¡± Zhang Family circled around the polite conversation, her face flushing red. Unable to articte her thoughts, she decided to be directly straightforward.


    ¡°Among the youth around here, capable of matching you, suitable for you, could only be my son, Sang.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Xiaomai¡¯s smile faded slightly.


    She did not respond, her bright eyes simply stared quietly at Zhang Family.


    The peach in Zhang Family¡¯s hand was fully peeled, but under Xiaomai¡¯s gaze, she didn¡¯t dare to eat it.


    Reminded of her previous inappropriate attitude, Zhang Family began to feel flustered. Shifting her gaze, she avoided eye contact with Xiaomai, ¡°Even though my family has fallen, Sang is a fine man. When choosing a husband, one should not solely consider family background, but also the man¡¯s ambition.¡±


    ¡°Sang is indeed ambitious. He studies every day and also hunts in the mountains. He presents himself well and is good at heart.¡±


    ¡°Auntie is just speaking the truth. Look, If you think he¡¯s suitable, shall we decide on this marriage?¡±


    Xiaomai looked at Zhang Family, waiting until she was done speaking before her lips turned up into a smile, her face undeniably polite, ¡°Auntie, Sang is excellent, I am aware. However, marriage is a big deal, we need to consider all factors.¡±


    Zhang Family pondered over these words, dissecting each word then assembled them. After a while, she finally understood that Xiaomai was acknowledging Sang¡¯s qualities.


    But she needs to consider other factors.


    What could these other factors be?


    After some thought, she carefully ventured, ¡°Xiaomai, even though my family are descendants of some king, the senior emperor said that our future will not be affected. We will just be an ordinary family, just like the rest, living a peacefulmon life.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Xiaomai still wore the same polite smile.


    Zhang Family couldn¡¯t help but exchange a nce with Zhu Hongyun, wondering what else needs to be taken into consideration?

 Chapter 506: 506: Stay Tonight

    Chapter 506: Stay Tonight


    Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s period had been irregr for several months, and she would feel pain in her abdomen whenever it came.


    However,pared to the fainting pain she felt the first time, the present pain was entirely bearable.


    But herplexion remained pale, and she appeared listless.


    Seeing Qiao Changshun¡¯s face, which resembled a dried tree bark, she handed over the cooking responsibilities to him.


    After lying in bed for a day, Tong Sang came in the evening. He brought with him three vine branches over a meter long, which he said could serve as sticks and were tenacious. He had found them in the virgin forest near Rooster Mountain.


    Seeing Qiao Xiaomai¡¯sckadaisical face, he scrunched his eyebrows, questioning, ¡°The spiritual spring water, why isn¡¯t it effective at all?¡±


    ¡°The spiritual spring water can only improve the quality of meals, it has no health benefits,¡± Xiaomai replied as she took out the pendant shaped like a water droplet.


    She and Tong Sang spected that this pendant could be connected to her space.


    But this pendant had been in her space for quite a few days, and no changes had urred.


    No changes in the pendant meant no change in her space as well.<div>


    ¡°Hmm¡­ I heard that things might improve after getting married?¡± Tong Sang hesitated for a moment but eventually spoke his mind.


    Upon hearing this, Xiaomai raised an eyebrow and threw the pendant back into her space, ¡°Where did you hear that from?¡±


    ¡°I heard it from Doctor Wu.¡± Tong Sang answered honestly.


    Xiaomai was taken aback, ¡°You actually asked him that?¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s nothing to be embarrassed about.¡± Tong Sang responded calmly.


    Xiaomai let out an amused sound, and then she startedughing. She stood up and sat on Tong Sang¡¯sp, her arms wrapped around his neck, ¡°Hey, young man, I can¡¯t bear to let you go. Why don¡¯t you stay tonight?¡±


    ¡°Hmm?¡± Tong Sang was stunned, and his eyes instantly widened.


    ¡°My stomach hurts. Sleep while hugging me,¡± Xiaomai whispered in his ear.


    The warm breath from her words tickled Tong Sang¡¯s neck, arousing goosebumps all over his body.


    He stiffened, his mind in disarray, ¡°Is this¡­ against tradition¡­¡±@@novelbin@@


    Their nightly ndestine meetings were already a vition of traditional teachings. Now lying together on the same bed, sleeping in each other¡¯s arms¡­


    Isn¡¯t this¡­ inappropriate?


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong with that? We¡¯re just chatting under the sheets,¡± Xiaomai said, squirming in his embrace, ¡°Now we¡¯re hugging as usual, just that the venue changed from the stool to the bed.¡±


    ¡°Kick out all those feudalistic rituals from your mind, tonight, listen to me.¡±


    Xiaomai actually hadn¡¯t nned this, but Tong Sang was just too warm and gentle.


    So warm that she couldn¡¯t bear him leaving.


    Tonight, listen to me.


    These five words seemed to possess some magical power, upon hearing them, Tong Sang felt himself losing control over his own body.


    He was like a soulless puppet being led by Qiao Xiaomai into her room, taking off his shoes and getting into bed.<div>


    Then, he held her petite, warm body in his arms.


    With Qiao Xiaomai snuggled against his side, she grabbed one of hisrge hands and ced it on her stomach, and swiftly fell asleep.


    Tong Sang ¡°¡­¡±


    Listening to the constant, rhythmic breathing in his ear and inhaling the faint scent from her body, his heart softened like a cloud and floated in the sky.<div>


    He floated there all night, unable to close his eyes or change his position.


    As daylight approached, he couldn¡¯t bear to, but woke up Qiao Xiaomai.


    He had to go back, Qiao Changshun always woke up very early, and anyter would risk their secret being discovered.

 Chapter 507: 507: I have nothing to say to you!

    Chapter 507: I have nothing to say to you!


    Qiao Xiaomai unwillingly got up and saw him off.


    Then she went to the bathroom to change her sanitary pad.


    As she came out of the restroom, there were thumping sounds outside the courtyard wall.


    Outside the wall, Tong Sang was somewhat speechless, having fallen to the ground.


    He had been lying sideways, hugging Qiao Xiaomai and not moving except for a full night, his half body had went numb when he woke up, but his floating mind did not think of using his internal energy to relieve the stiffness of his body.


    Only when he left and couldn¡¯t see Qiao Xiaomai, the mind that had been floating in the sky all night finally returned to his head.


    Then his first reaction was the numbness of half of his body.


    Half of his body was so stiff, his leg couldn¡¯t support his body, and then he fell straight on the ground!


    !!!


    Not being able to walk steadily, that was something that happened when he was one year old, right?<div>


    With a helpless facepalm, he quickly utilized his internal strength to circte it within his body, then activated his light skill and ran away like a streak of smoke.


    This kind of embarrassing history must never be known by Qiao Xiaomai!


    Qiao Xiaomai didn¡¯t know that Tong Sang had tripped, and she went back to the bed and continued to sleep.


    Even in the summer, even at night, the temperature was still high, but she hadn¡¯t sweated at all after hugging Tong Sang for a night.


    With the embrace behind her gone, she couldn¡¯t help but clutch the bedsheet covering her body tighter.


    What should she do¡­?


    After sleeping like this, it made it even harder to give up Tong Sang¡¯s embrace.


    When would they be able to get married?


    Agitatedly struggling in the bed, she covered herself with the bedsheet and continued to sleep.


    Today¡¯s meal was still cooked by Qiao Changshun. After the meal, he went out into the field with a group of workers.


    The weather was hot, and the past few days had been spent carrying water to irrigate the field. This task was very heavy. He originally wanted to remind Qiao Xiaomai to bring something to eat halfway, but now Qiao Xiaomai was lying in bed and couldn¡¯t move, so he had to abandon the idea.


    A group of people rode on the ox carts and donkey carts and headed unsteadily for the fields.


    Qiao Zhaodi was sandwiched in the middle of the group and silently lowered her head, saying nothing.


    She had to apany Qiao Changshun to guard against the Sun Family.


    However, even though she was with Qiao Changshun she felt timid.@@novelbin@@


    Fighting was something too far off for her, especially when she has to confront the Sun Family. Even though she had the weapon Qiao Xiaomai had given her, the pressure was still immense.


    She lowered her head and quietly prayed to herself that the Sun Family would not appear.


    But the heavens did not hear her prayer. When they reached the vige entrance, the Sun Family appeared.


    Moreover, the Sun Family wasn¡¯t alone; a beautiful young woman was standing next to her and a small carriage was behind her.<div>


    The two of them were standing at the edge of the wheat field waiting for Qiao Changshun and his group. The beautiful young woman turned around and got onto the horse carriage when they saw theming.


    The Sun family took a step forward, waving her hand with the fan in it at the carriage driver, ¡°Stop!¡±


    This shout was effective. The three carts indeed came to a stop.


    Although the Emperor had already decreed their marriage, she was still Qiao Changshun¡¯s birth mother, and the people still respected her.<div>


    Satisfied, the Sun family took three steps forward and stopped next to the donkey cart where Qiao Changshun was sitting. ¡°Changshun,e here, I have a few words to say to you.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Qiao Changshun, anxiously clutched the bucket in his hand more tightly. Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s words for him to perform or she would move out reyed in his mind. He gripped the bucket tighter; veins bulged on the back of his hand. He opened his mouth and gritted his teeth, ¡°I have nothing to say to you.¡±


    ¡°Go, go, go, get to the field quickly. Don¡¯t stop.¡± These words, however, were directed at the carriage driver.


    He had exhausted all his energy to say that he had nothing to say, and he didn¡¯t have the energy to deal with the Sun family anymore.


    Go, hurry!

 Chapter 540: 540: Settled Publicly or Privately

    Chapter 540: Settled Publicly or Privately


    With these thoughts in mind, the next day, Zhang Family went to Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s house.


    Qiao Changshun was out in the fields, while Qiao Xiaomai and Qiao Dami were ying at home, listening to her assurances with a casual attitude.


    The adamant refusal from Qiao Xiaomai remained unchanged, insisting that although Tong Sang was a good person, she did not want to marry him, regardless of anything Zhang Family tried to persuade her with.


    Furthermore, while they were speaking, people from the County Government Office arrived. Sun Junyan had lodged aint against Qiao Xiaomai, and the bailiff hade to take her away.


    With a regretful face, Qiao Xiaomai looked at Zhang Family.


    What could Zhang Family say at this moment? All she could do was to take her cloth bundle and return home.


    As for the bailiff recall, she was rather rxed about it. With Yang Ye involved, would Qiao Xiaomai suffer any harm from Sun Junyan?


    Definitely not.


    At this time, what she should worry about was how to get Qiao Xiaomai to agree to the proposal. With a powerfulpetitor like Yang Ye, she should act as soon as possible!


    After some thoughts, Zhang Family went home to find Tong Tiehu.<div>


    Qiao Xiaomai held an opinion of her, so she had to ask Tong Tiehu to step in. Tong Tiehu had helped Qiao Xiaomai so many times before, and Qiao Xiaomai would at least treat him with a better attitude even if she didn¡¯t agree.


    Zhang Family went home to try to persuade Tong Tiehu while Qiao Xiaomai followed the bailiff to the County Town.


    On the way passing through Bailu Town, she met Yang Ye, who had been waiting there, and he took her to the County Government Office in his carriage.


    In the office, Cen Hong and Sun Junyan already knew about Yang Ye¡¯s arrival. They expected Yang Ye to stand up for Qiao Xiaomai and had prepared countermeasures. They insisted that Qiao Xiaomai had set fire to important documents and that Hua Xiaofeng had assaulted Sun Family maliciously. These two had to be punished byw.


    Yang Ye sat at the side and listened in the courtroom.


    After hearing Sun Junyan¡¯s usations, he asked directly before the county magistrate could speak, ¡°County Mayor Dai, does the ¡®Daqi Law¡¯ prescribe punishment formoners who destroy ssified military documents?¡±


    Knowing this case would not be easy, Mayor Dai had ced a copy of ¡®Daqi Law¡¯ close at hand. After hearing Yang Ye¡¯s question, he pretended to flip through the book, then shook his head, ¡°To answer your Highness, there are no regtions regarding this matter.¡±


    ¡°Perfectly, the emperor has asked me to revise the ¡®Daqi Law.¡¯ Once I finish revising the ¡®Daqi Law¡¯, we¡¯ll deal with it ording to thew.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Mayor Dai quickly responded, ¡°Your Highness speaks truly.¡±


    Hearing this, Cen Hong immediately became angry, ¡°Mayor Dai, that was military ssified information!¡±


    ¡°Cen Hong, there is no regtion about it in the ¡®Daqi Law¡¯, how do you expect Mayor Dai to judge? Aren¡¯t you deliberately making things difficult?¡± As Yang Ye spoke, he scoffed, ¡°Moreover, the main responsibility lies with you. You intentionally exposed military secrets to Sun Junyan amoner. This constitutes a breach of confidentiality, which ¡®Daqi Law¡¯ does dictate.¡±


    Upon hearing these words, Cen Hong was stunned, and then his face turned pale.


    From this perspective, it did seem so.


    Sun Junyan was only assisting him and did not hold any official title. This indeed constituted a leak of confidential information.


    Seeing the expression on Cen Hong¡¯s face, Yang Ye snorted, ¡°Sun Junyan was negligent in supervision, and he bears a significant responsibility in this matter. The mistakes made by both of you are more severe. Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s mistake was made unintentionally, she is not guilty if she did not know.¡±


    Yang Ye said, unfurling the fan in his hand and shaking it leisurely. His handsome face wore a smirk, ¡°Cen Hong, do you think this situation should be resolved publicly or privately?¡±


    Cen Hong ¡°¡­¡±


    He involuntarily clenched his fists and gnashed his teeth.


    <div>

 Chapter 509: 509: Where Did Tong Familys Bean Sprout Recipe Come From?!

    Chapter 509: Where Did Tong Family¡¯s Bean Sprout Recipe Come From?!


    Submit aint to the County Government Office?


    As soon as these words were uttered, Mrs. Sun cried out in surprise, smacking her thigh, ¡°Well, then why don¡¯t you make aint! You should make sure all the people in County Town know about Zhuang Luhe running away with another man!¡±


    Hearing this, Qiao Changshun paused, then felt even more stressed out.


    This, this¡­


    Zhuang Luhe did indeed elope with another man, and making aint would indeed be airing this scandal to everyone around¡­


    Mrs. Sun went on to rant loudly, ¡°What does it matter whether we¡¯re rted or not? You are still my flesh and blood! I have the right to look after you!¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re so foolish. You have such a considerable fortune, be careful, or it will all be squandered by that damn girl Qiao Xiaomai!¡±


    Squandered by Qiao Xiaomai?


    Qiao Changshun grew even angrier, ¡°Don¡¯t talk nonsense!¡±


    ¡°Who¡¯s talking nonsense? Tell me, who originally owned that bean sprout business, and why is the Tong Family now running it? If it wasn¡¯t for that damn Qiao Xiaomai, would you really believe the Tong Family came up with it on their own?!¡±<div>


    Mentioning this, Mrs. Sun was practically seething with rage.


    When Qiao Xiaomai first came up with the bean sprout idea, she had tried to im it for herself.


    But what was Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s response?


    Qiao Xiaomai only gave her a little bit of bean sprouts! She didn¡¯t see a single cent from it.


    And now?


    That wench gave the recipe straight to the Tong Family!


    ¡°She¡¯s no longer a young girl in your house, she¡¯s nothing but an ingrate! The Tong Family¡¯s fortune is gone, but she¡¯s stilltching onto Tong Sang. She may be blind, but you can¡¯t afford to be. Your fortune was hard-earned, be careful or she¡¯ll gradually transfer it all to the Tong Family!¡±


    Qiao Changshun ¡°¡­¡±


    Qiao Changshun was so angry his face turned red. He was naturally not eloquent, and now he was faced with the quick-witted Sun, leaving him so upset his eyes turned red.


    Stamping his foot, he retorted, ¡°Luhe couldn¡¯t bear your beatings and scoldings any longer, so she went out to work. Xiaomai got Sang to help her, so she gave him the malt sugar recipe as a reward. As for the bean sprouts, it was the Tong Family¡¯s own idea, it has nothing to do with Xiaomai. Don¡¯t casually tarnish her reputation!¡±


    ¡°Oh my, so that¡¯s how it is!¡± Mrs. Sun became even angrier on hearing this exnation. She pointed her folding fan at Qiao Changshun, and scolded him passionately, ¡°You fool! The matter is just about doing some errands, yet she handed over the malt sugar recipe!¡±


    ¡°How much money is a recipe worth? Look, she¡¯s tantly moving Qiao Family¡¯s possessions to the Tong Family, and you still naively believe her!¡±@@novelbin@@


    ¡°She has a profitable recipe, why didn¡¯t she keep it for your father? Look how hard your father is working in the fields all day, aging more than ten years in just a few months. You fool, be careful she sells you out while you¡¯re still counting the money for her!¡±


    ¡°That Tong Sang from the Tong Family isn¡¯t any good either!¡± Mrs. Sun spat on the ground with disdain, ¡°Their family lost everything, so he¡¯s desperately hooking up with that wench Xiaomai. What¡¯s he after? Isn¡¯t it your family¡¯s fortune?!¡±


    Even Tong Sang was scolded, leaving Qiao Changshun so enraged he couldn¡¯t speak coherently, ¡°You, you¡¯re just talking nonsense! The fortune, the fortune is Xiaomai¡¯s, Xiaomai¡¯s own earnings!¡±


    ¡°What of it that she earned it herself? She¡¯s a member of the Qiao Family, that means her earnings belong to the Qiao Family! What¡¯s the deal with her constantly contributing to the Tong Family?¡±


    Mrs. Sun stood with one hand on her hip and pointing at him with the other, the saliva practically flying from her mouth, ¡°You should find a reliable and thoughtful person to help you manage your fortune!¡±

 Chapter 542: 542: Why Did the Prince Not Marry?

    Chapter 542: Why Did the Prince Not Marry?


    Qiao Xiaomai pushed the banknote back into Yang Ye¡¯s chest, ¡°My lord, I am just an ordinary citizen, I can¡¯t ept thisrge sum of money. It feels as hot as fire in my hand.¡±


    ¡°Eh, Cen Hong will continue to hate you, no matter if you take it or not. Since that¡¯s the case, you might as well take it. ¡°Yang Ye said as he attempted to return the note to her.


    ¡°No, no, no.¡± Qiao Xiaomai quickly waved her hands, ¡°Even though it¡¯s as you said, I dare not take this money. If you do not want it as well, then you might as well donate it to the disaster victims of the Shuifeng Prefecture.¡±


    A lot of silver would be needed for post-disaster reconstruction.


    ¡°Consider it as redistributing wealth from the rich to the poor.¡± She said.


    Hearing these words, Yang Ye chuckled, his eyes shining brightly, ¡°Then I might as well donate all these ten thousand taels.¡±


    ¡°You decide, my lord.¡±


    ¡°Huh, this Mount Jiang belongs to my Yang Family, however, looking at me now, my consciousness isn¡¯t as high as yours.¡± Yang Ye sighed.


    ¡°You just didn¡¯t think of it earlier, my lord. You truly care for your people like your own children.¡± Qiao Xiaomaiplimented him.


    Yang Ye looked her up and down with his sparkling eyes, ¡°Speaking of which, have you really never considereding back to the capital with me? With your abilities, you shouldn¡¯t be confined to life as a simple vige girl.¡±<div>


    ¡°You hold this humble girl in too high regard, my lord.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t be too modest. Looking at it now, you shoulde back with me when I return to the capital.¡± Yang Ye said, his eyes curved like crescents.


    The expression on Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s face was faint, ¡°Just now, the mother of Tong Xingda¡¯s proposed a marriage.¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡± Yang Ye retracted his smile upon hearing this, ¡°They¡¯re pretty quick. However, are you really willing to marry him? Being with the Tong family, you¡¯re going to have a tough time.¡±


    ¡°Thank you for your concern, but no matter how tough it gets, if Tong Xingda is there, it will be bearable.¡±


    ¡°Oh my~!¡± Hearing this, Yang Ye exaggeratedly shouted, then he covered his handsome face with his hands, ¡°How unexpected, young girl¡¯s families, why are they so indiscreet!¡±


    He was embarrassed to hear this!


    He suddenly wanted a wife too!


    Seeing him like this, Qiao Xiaomai couldn¡¯t help but curve the corners of her mouth inughter.


    ¡°Why have you not married, my lord?¡± She asked.


    Upon mentioning this major issue, Yang Ye put down his hands from his face. He copsed on the bamboo mat behind him, looking somewhat dejected, ¡°Because until now, I have not met a maiden whom I like more than food.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai ¡°¡­¡±


    Now that¡¯s a real foodie¡­


    ¡°Why don¡¯t you change your attitude, be tender, be gentle, and then I¡¯ll take you as my queen.¡± Yang Ye tilted his head to look at her, his handsome face was graced with a smile.


    ¡°Why trouble yourself, my lord, you deserve someone much better.¡±


    ¡°Heh!¡± Yang Ye rolled his eyes without caring about his appearance, ¡°You¡¯re the one who doesn¡¯t want to put yourself in a tight spot, right?¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai just smiled without a word.


    Yang Ye snorted twice, casually opened the secretpartment in the carriage, took out a te of melon seeds.


    ¡°Watermelon seeds taste good too, but it¡¯s a pity that the emperor wants to promote it widely, so I can¡¯t eat it.¡± He ate the seeds while talking.<div>


    ¡°It¡¯ll be all right in a few years.¡± Responded Qiao Xiaomai.


    Hearing this, Yang Ye sighed with a somewhat mncholy expression, ¡°Speaking of which, if you really do marry Tong Xingda, who will take care of the wedding banquet?¡±


    This topic had changed rather abruptly, confusing Xiaomai. She then said, ¡± Definitely not me.¡±


    ¡°Then I guess there¡¯s no need for me to go.¡±<div>


    Qiao Xiaomai, ¡°¡­¡±


    Both of them chatted leisurely as they made their way back to Bailu Town. By then the noontime had passed, and Yang Ye would not let Xiaomai go, so he took her to eat at Jilu Restaurant.


    After lunch, Yang Yemanded the coachman to send Xiaomai back to Anping Vige.


    Upon arriving home, she saw her father, Qiao Changshun, sitting in the yard with Zhang family¡¯s and Tong Xingda by his side.

 Chapter 511: 511: What exactly is the yield of bean sprouts?

    Chapter 511: What exactly is the yield of bean sprouts?


    Zhang Family was indeed furious.


    Why should the idea she herself came up with be pegged on Qiao Xiaomai?


    And as for scalping silver, who was doing that? The hard-earned bean sprouts, if a kilogram of soybeans could only make a penny, and she could only make a few pennies a day, less than what Qiao Xiaomai would earn for manualbor, then how was she supposed to run this business?


    It seemed like there were many bean sprouts sold in town yesterday, but that was the stock for several days. People bought hundreds of kilograms of bean sprouts at once, it¡¯s not like they¡¯d eat them all in one meal.


    So calcting it like this, it would take a few days to make a decent amount of silver. After deducting the cost, she would only earn about five hundred pennies in three or four days.


    Is this petty cash called scalping?


    What a load of bullshit! She ran a legitimate business, see if she wouldn¡¯t rip the mouth off the Sun Family for ndering her!


    Zhang Family and Tong Tiehu hurried to the threshing ground at the entrance of the vige.


    When they arrived, Qiao Changshun was still fuming. The others surrounded Qiao Changshun in the middle. Sun Family sat on a donkey cart. Upon seeing Tong Tiehuing, she stood up,


    ¡°The Vige Chief is here.¡±<div>


    Her tone was filled with faint mockery.


    If we¡¯re talking about the past, then she respected Tong Tiehu. Over the years, he dealt with things fairly, and she hadn¡¯t seen him seeking any special advantages for the Tong Family.


    Although she was provocative and unreasonable, she did it on purpose. In her heart, she had the bnce of a normal person.


    But now it¡¯s different, Tong Xiaowu deliberately hooked up with Qiao Xiaomai to scalp silver from the vige.


    Ha, let¡¯s see how Tong Tiehu would rule this time. If it¡¯s not fair, she¡¯d take this to County Town!


    Her Xiaowu was working for Sir County Magistrate!


    ¡°Xiaodi said that you nder Xiaowu and Xiaomai? That Xiaomai and my family formed an alliance to deliberately scalp everyone¡¯s money?¡± Tong Tiehu asked directly without any nonsense, his face stern.@@novelbin@@


    ¡°Yes, that¡¯s what I said.¡± Sun Family admitted frankly.


    ¡°Where¡¯s the evidence?!¡± Zhang Family was furious, ¡°Without evidence, it¡¯s nder!¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t have any evidence, but your family did double the price of bean sprouts. How about this, I¡¯ll buy your bean sprouts recipe, and make the bean sprouts myself. Let everyone see how much bean sprouts a kilogram of soybeans can produce and see if you are scalping money.¡±


    With this statement, Zhang Family was taken aback.


    What¡¯s happening?


    Sun Family wanted to buy the bean sprouts recipe?


    So extravagant?


    But this thought quickly disappeared as she thought of the consequences.


    A kilogram of soybeans can produce eight kilograms of bean sprouts, but the other day, in front of many vigers, she said that a kilogram of soybeans could only produce four kilograms of bean sprouts.


    By reducing bean sprouts yield by half, if the vigers found out about this, they would think she was scalping money.


    The cunning tricks of a business person wouldn¡¯t be understood by these vigers.


    Tong Tiehu also caught on to this point. Qiao Changshun knew the yield of bean sprouts since his family had grown it before. That day when Zhang Family said it was four kilograms, he didn¡¯t speak up since it was none of his business. After all, it¡¯s only vegetables and not something everyone is forced to buy. What the Tong Family says does not affect him.<div>


    But now that Sun Family made such a statement, if the real yield of bean sprouts was announced, the reputation of the Tong Family would definitely be damaged¡­


    With this in mind, he couldn¡¯t help but look worriedly at Tong Tiehu.


    He respected Tong Tiehu very much and considered the Tong Family his inws from the bottom of his heart. Now that Sun Family sprung this trap, what was he to do?


    <div>

 Chapter 544: 544: Ill Pay You Back

    Chapter 544: I¡¯ll Pay You Back


    Tong Xingda understood better than the Zhang Family.


    In demanding silver, he was converting the debt of favour that Qiao Xiaomai owed into a mary debt.


    What kind of debt is the hardest to repay?


    The answer is naturally a debt of favour.


    Especially when this debt of favour includes the grace of saving a life.


    That day, when Tong Sang had exhausted all his strength to block Cen Hong and save Qiao Xiaomai, the whole vige had seen it.


    With this debt of favour in ce, he could ask Qiao Xiaomai to do many things and he could keep asking over and over again. As long as his demands were not excessive, he could burden her with this obligation for a lifetime.


    If she pays with silver, then the bnce between the Qiao Family and the Tong Family would be cleared.


    He wouldn¡¯t be foolish enough to simplify such a precious debt of favour into a mary debt.


    Qiao Xiaomai herself was a gold mine. This gold mine needed to be utilized slowly over a long period of time. He wouldn¡¯t do something as stupid as killing the goose thatys the golden eggs.<div>


    ¡°Xiaomai, Sang truly wants to marry you. The two of you are a perfect match and I remember you not being repulsed by him previously. In that case, our families should be affinal, right?¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t have to repay those favours, our Tong Family will definitely treat you well. What do you think?¡±


    The faint smile on Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s face didn¡¯t change, ¡°Uncle Tong, I think it¡¯s better to use silver as a token of appreciation.¡±


    ¡°So you¡¯re wrong there. How much silver do you think you can offer to repay the grace of saving a life?¡±


    ¡°Also, your grandfather Tong and Sang helped you out of pure heart. Now, you want to tarnish this rtionship with the stench of money. Xiaomai, what you¡¯re doing is not right.¡± Tong Xingda, with a stern face, adopted a tone of an elder lecturing a younger one.


    Qiao Xiaomai didn¡¯t fall for his act. Shaking her index and middle finger, she said, ¡°Two thousand taels. After this, our families will continue as before, okay?¡±


    Two thousand taels!!!


    As this number came out, not only did the Zhang Family¡¯s eyes light up like a bulb, but their entire facial expressions also radiate ecstasy.


    Previously, their total wealth was only over a thousand taels, but now Qiao Xiaomai was offering two thousand taels.


    This could instantly restore their past glory!


    Tong Xingda, seeing her expression, couldn¡¯t help but step on her foot. Fool! If Tong Sang marries Qiao Xiaomai, they could earn ten times two thousand taels!


    ¡°Xiaomai, as I said, offering money is kind of insulting. Do you think your Grandfather Tong and Sang would want your silver?¡± He said in a profound and sincere tone.


    ¡°But please understand me too, Uncle Tong. No matter how huge the favour is, I have no intention of repaying it with my body.¡± Qiao Xiaomai was equally resolute.


    ¡°Why won¡¯t you marry?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not in a hurry, I¡¯m still young. Besides, my father¡¯s leg is not well, and my little brother is too young. As the pir of this family, I have no ns to marry.¡±


    ¡°We¡¯re from the same vige. Even after marriage, you can still manage things at your home.¡± Tong Xingda looked at Qiao Changshun who had been silent since Qiao Xiaomai returned, ¡°Changshun, wouldn¡¯t you agree?¡±


    Qiao Changshun rubbed his hands, smiling awkwardly, but said nothing.


    The family couldn¡¯t function without Qiao Xiaomai. Hecked Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s decisiveness and ruthlessness.


    ¡°Uncle Tong, as you can see, my father also disagrees with me getting married now. If there¡¯s nothing else, I would kindly ask you and your wife to leave.¡± Qiao Xiaomai showed them out again.<div>


    Tong Xingda thought for a moment and didn¡¯t insist. He got up, ¡°Alright then, give some thought to what I just said. Your grandfather Tong and Sang like you. We¡¯re from the same vige, marrying wouldn¡¯t be much different from not.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai just smiled without saying a word.


    Not much difference?


    The difference was huge!<div>


    If she became rted to Tong Sang through marriage, Zhang Family and Tong Xingda would be her elders. With the duty of filial piety on her, she would have to be more cautious in her actions.

 Chapter 513: 513: The Sun Family Slaps the Face

    Chapter 513: The Sun Family ps the Face


    The purpose of the Sun Family today is simple: to propose marriage to Qiao Changshun.


    When Tong Tiehu dared to step forward, she would drag out the bean sprout method, let the Tong Family¡¯s reputation be damaged, and left Tong Tiehu speechless.


    Of course, if she could take the opportunity to tarnish Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s reputation, she would be more than happy.


    So, when she heard Zhang Family¡¯s words, even though they were a p in her face, she wished she could shout it out for everyone in the vige to hear.


    ¡°Shut up!¡± Qiao Changshun said, stomping his foot angrily.


    He unconsciously held the vine stick in his hand.


    Seeing this, Sun Family took a few steps forward, pointed at her own face with her left hand that wasn¡¯t holding a fan, and said, ¡°Go ahead, hit me if you dare!¡±


    The hand Qiao Changshun was holding the vine stick with was shaking uncontrobly, his eyes turned red with anger, but when he looked at Sun Family¡¯s face, he couldn¡¯t bring himself to hit her.


    Seeing this, Sun Family snorted, then turned her gaze to Zhang Family and Tong Tiehu. ¡°Vige Chief, if nothing else, you may go back. Qiao Changshun and I are discussing marriage ns. He¡¯s a bit shy, you watching him will make him ufortable.¡±


    Her words served as a step for Tong Tiehu to concede.<div>


    Tong Tiehu clenched his teeth, hesitation rising in his heart.@@novelbin@@


    To go, or not to go, that was the question.


    If he left, Sun Family¡¯s previous usations about the Tong Family overcharging remain unrified. All the vigers were watching. They must have doubts in their mind.


    However, if he didn¡¯t leave, Sun Family would definitely make a fuss and force him to reveal the bean sprout method.


    Once the method of making bean sprouts got revealed, and the yield that Zhang Family imed as eight tael was told to be four tael, it would solidify the usation of the Tong Family overcharging.


    Thinking of this, Tong Tiehu couldn¡¯t help but re at Zhang Family.


    Idiot!


    Compromising the family¡¯s reputation for a bit of money!


    When the price of bean sprouts was being determined, he suggested going with the same price as Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s.


    But this met with objections from the entire family. Making one cent profit from eight tael of soybeans was too less, they said.


    Therefore, he slightly increased the price, wanting to set it at two cents for three tael.


    ording to this calction, the profit would be a bit higher. But the calction was tooplicated and was opposed by the entire family.


    Eventually, they set the price of bean sprouts at one cent per tael.


    If they sold eight tael, they would make five cents profit.


    Does that seem too much? It may not be a lot in the town, but in the vige, it is.


    That¡¯s why, they made a false statement in front of the whole vige, and now they were used by Sun Family of overcharging.


    Over a dozen vigers were listening; they all needed an exnation.


    ¡°Sun Family, you said we are ripping you off, but what proof do you have? What proof?¡± Tong Tiehu hesitated, but Zhang Family made a quick decision: she would never admit it.


    If Sun Family insists they are overcharging, she needed to provide evidence, otherwise it was nder.<div>


    Sun Family said she wanted to buy the method, but they wouldn¡¯t sell


    She insisted she wouldn¡¯t sell it, and there was nothing Sun Family could do.


    Looking at Zhang Family¡¯s annoying face, Sun Family snorted, ¡°I¡¯ll pay 500 taels to buy your bean sprouts method. The method is your evidence!¡±


    ¡°We n to pass this method onto future generations and we cannot sell. If we keep it within the family and pass it on for generations, we¡¯ll make tens of thousands of taels. Are you trying to dismiss me with just 500 taels?¡± Zhang Family argued back.<div>


    ¡°Tens of thousands of taels? I can¡¯t believe you have the audacity to say this! If you don¡¯t sell the method, it shows your guilt, and that you¡¯re ripping off our fellow vigers!¡± Sun Family snorted and said loudly, ¡°Listen, everyone! If, as the Tong family said, one tael of soybeans only yields four tael of bean sprouts, then Xiaomai was selling them at a loss at two cents per tael. Can everyone get their heads around that?!¡±


    She didn¡¯t want to bring up too many issues, and just wanted to have a good chat with Qiao Changshun about the proposal. But since Zhang Family insisted on arguing with her, she would undoubtedly jump out and fight back.

 Chapter 546: 546: Faking Illness to Seek Good Luck

    Chapter 546: Chapter 546: Faking Illness to Seek Good Luck


    Zhu Hongyun, hearing of the day¡¯s proceedings, was so pained that she wished she could roll on the ground.


    Two thousand taels! She had never seen so much silver in her life.


    Qiao Xiaomai casually spent more than what the Tong Family had gathered over decades. She was indeed rich!


    ¡°But the money isn¡¯t ours after all.¡± Zhang Family¡¯s matriarch said dispiritedly, ¡°No matter how much your father and I tried to persuade her, she refused to agree.¡±


    ¡°Really, your grandfather and Tong Sang were the ones who should have spoken. Persuasion from your father¡¯s mouth just isn¡¯t effective.¡±


    Zhu Hongyun said nothing, her eyes rolling around.


    Tong Sang and Tong Tiehu not cooperating was a reality they couldn¡¯t change at the moment.


    But could they really let the events rest as is?


    No no no, absolutely not.


    There must be a way.<div>


    Li Rou sat aside silently, her head lowered. After a while, she suddenly raised her head and said, ¡°Mother, how about this? You pretend to be seriously ill and say that only Sang¡¯s marriage can bring luck against the illness.¡±


    ¡°In that case, Sang will surely ask for Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s hand in marriage.¡±


    With her words, Zhang Family¡¯s matriarch and Zhu Hongyun were stunned.


    But then, their eyes lit up sharply.


    Yes, Tong Sang was very dutiful. If they tell him that his marriage can save his mother¡¯s life, he would surely agree.


    Running this scheme might bring misfortune to Zhang Family¡¯s matriarch, but it would surely be beneficial to their current situation.


    Li Rou noted the feelings of Zhang Family¡¯s matriarch and Zhu Hongyun, and added, ¡°Moreover, if Qiao Xiaomai were to marry under the pretext of bringing luck, you can find ways to control her.¡±


    ¡°If she disobeys or talks back, you can pretend to fall ill again and me her, saying she brings bad luck.¡±


    At this point, Zhu Hongyun couldn¡¯t help saying, ¡°But after she marries into the family, mother¡¯s illness should get better, then she would bring good luck, not bad!¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s merely a change in words. You could just say that her bad energy was strong enough to suppress the illness, and not because she is a good-luck charm. If Qiao Xiaomai defies youter, her bad energy would harm your health,¡± Li Rou said.


    ¡°Anyway, if she is disobedient, we have a way to control her.¡±


    Zhang Family¡¯s matriarch and Zhu Hongyun fell silent. They kept turning Li Rou¡¯s words over in their minds. In the end, Zhang decided, ¡°Let¡¯s do this!¡±


    If Qiao Xiaomai insists on not marrying, this might be the only way out of the deadlock.


    If Tong Sang refuses to propose, he would be undutiful.


    Once they had settled on a n, Zhu Hongyun immediately called for Doctor Wu again.


    In order to fake an illness, they naturally needed Doctor Wu¡¯s support.


    Zhang had spent all of her savings on purchases. Even the money for medical treatment was given by Tong Tiexu. Now, they needed to invite Doctor Wu to help them conceal the truth, which would certainly require more money.


    Zhu Hongyun had no money; it was Li Rou who paid for it.


    Of course, they also promised to repay her once Qiao Xiaomai was married in.<div>


    She had a son and daughter and needed the money even more.


    Doctor Wu didn¡¯t say anything on hearing the words of the three women. He epted the five taels of silver from Li Rou and promptly taught Zhang how to fake an illness.


    After several people checked their story, not long after Doctor Wu left, Zhang started feeling unwell again. This time, it wasn¡¯t a fever, but chest pain.


    The pain kept her awake at night and incapable of eating.<div>


    Two thousand taels of silver! It indeed caused Zhang enough heartache to lose sleep.


    They atergely vegetarian food at home now, all the vegetables were handpicked from their own garden, so it hardly mattered whether they ate or not.


    As a result, Zhang¡¯sck of sleep and appetite made her look extremely frail after a few days, which made her appearance seem convincingly nearest to being seriously ill.

 Chapter 515: 515: I Sold It Like This!

    Chapter 515: I Sold It Like This!


    ¡°Enough!¡± Tong Tiehu rebuked her, ¡°Isn¡¯t it shameful enough for you?!¡±


    ¡°Who¡¯s embarrassed?! Isn¡¯t this how all businesses operate?! Doesn¡¯t every family that does business fret about the difficulty of making money!¡±


    Zhang Family stiffened her neck to retort a sentence to Tong Tiehu, then looked toward the vigers surrounding Qiao Changshun, and loudly said, ¡°I only make five cooper coins for eight pounds of bean sprouts! Yesterday, I only sold thirteen pounds of bean sprouts all day, only making six to seven coins a day, is that robbing people?!¡±


    On the first day of the new store opening, all one hundred pounds of bean sprouts were sold out.


    As a result, the sales volume of bean sprouts plummeted yesterday, with only thirteen pounds sold in a day.


    Only six or seven coins were made in one day. If you say she¡¯s robbing, she won¡¯t ept it!


    ¡°You all earn seven coins a day working at Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s house, and I¡¯m making just as much from my business, is this robbery?!¡±


    ¡°If you think I¡¯m robbing money, you don¡¯t have to buy from me in the future, you can also report me in County Town! My words are right here, my bean sprouts will still be sold in the future, a coin a pound!¡±


    When Zhang Family¡¯s words fell, the scene became quiet again.


    Her exnation seem to make sense.<div>


    Doing business, in the impression of the vigers, makes a lot of money. The Jiangs, the Tongs, and the Qiaos in the vige are all quite rich.


    Now that Zhang Family¡¯s exnation, the ie from selling bean sprouts a day is as much as their work at Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s house, that wouldn¡¯t count as robbing money¡­


    It can only be said that it¡¯s not very honorable.


    She¡¯s slippery and not honest when she¡¯s facing her neighbors, really dishonest, really dishonest.


    If she had been straightforward about it, everyone wouldn¡¯t have said anything!


    Seeing the turn of events, Sun Family put away the smug expression on her face, and hummed, ¡°Stopining. How much money did you make selling bean sprouts on your store¡¯s first day of opening?¡±


    ¡°Isn¡¯t it okay for my shop to earn a few dozen coins on its opening day?¡± Zhang Family retorted with her hands on her hips, ¡°You just falsely used my family and Qiao Xiaomai of plotting to steal everyone¡¯s money. That¡¯s a false usation!¡±


    ¡°Dad, she¡¯s deliberately smearing our family. Shouldn¡¯t she be punished? Shouldn¡¯t she be taken to County Town?¡±


    ¡°And she, a shrew who was driven out of the vige, what right does she have to stir up trouble in our vige?!¡±


    Tong Tiehu hesitated, he looked at the dozens of vigers surrounding Qiao Changshun and asked, ¡°What do you think? Is my family robbing money?¡±


    ¡°That¡­ shouldn¡¯t be.¡± Someone started to speak.


    Making five coins for a pound of soybeans does seem a lot.


    But if you convert it to bean sprouts, making five coins for eight pounds of bean sprouts, which amounts to less than ten coins a day, it doesn¡¯t seem like a rip-off.


    ¡°It shouldn¡¯t be.¡± Someone certainly gave the answer.


    ¡°That¡¯s right, that¡¯s right. Only a few coins a day, it¡¯s not a rip-off.¡±


    ¡°Not a scam, not a scam. And after watching for so long, shouldn¡¯t we be heading to the fields? We¡¯re being dyed from our work here?¡±


    Those vigers started to chatter.


    Now that the matter with the Tong Family seems to be clear, let¡¯s get to the fields quick, staying here is dying their wage-earning work.


    Those words reached Qiao Changshun¡¯s heart, ¡°Let¡¯s go, let¡¯s go, let¡¯s get to the fields.¡±<div>


    He said, as he got into the ox cart first.


    The vigers also got on the cart, the driver whipped the ox, and the ox cart and donkey cart headed towards the fields along the main road.


    Seeing this, Sun Family didn¡¯t bother to deal with Tong Tiehu and Zhang Family anymore, she quickly walked towards the little horse cart at the edge of the wheat field, ¡°Let¡¯s go, let¡¯s follow them.¡±


    Seeing this, Zhang Family wanted to call back Sun Family, but Tong Tiehu red at her fiercely, ¡°Shut your mouth!¡±@@novelbin@@<div>


    Although these ten or so people have stated their position, he does not know what they really think inside.

 Chapter 548: 548: Success, Splitting the Family!

    Chapter 548: Chapter 548: Sess, Splitting the Family!


    ¡°Don¡¯t rush,¡± Tong Sang reassured her.


    If they just directly exposed Zhang Family¡¯s lies, even if he came to propose a marriage, why would Qiao Xiaomai agree?


    Because he and Tong Tiehu had helped Qiao Xiaomai before?


    This turn of events was obviously a bit abrupt.


    ¡°Our n is to pretend to be helpless, and you should act clueless and unaware of the truth. But to reciprocate our previous help, you should reluctantly ept, even if you don¡¯t want to.¡±


    ¡°We¡¯ll publicize your selfless act of reciprocation, so that the whole vige will know.¡±


    ¡°And I will exin the situation to my mother. As soon as you marry into our family, her illness should magically recover, and then we will separate households.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai blinked, understanding the n.


    Her previous refusal had led the situation to a standstill.


    Zhang¡¯s pretending to be sick is a way to break the stalemate. As a result, Tong Sang naturallyes to propose, and she naturally agrees.<div>


    However, because Tong Sang knows the truth, he will have a talk with Zhang. As soon as she marries into their family, they will separate households immediately.


    After thinking a while, Qiao Xiaomai said, ¡°What if they don¡¯t separate? What if she changes her mind?¡±


    ¡°Then you return to your house and do not give them any silver. My mother is only after your silver. If you use silver to make her separate, she¡¯ll agree.¡± Tong Sang said.


    Qiao Xiaomai ¡°¡­¡±


    It¡¯s soplicated.


    Why is it so difficult for her to get married?


    Tong Sang patted her shoulder, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, reputation doesn¡¯t mean much for you. As long as you don¡¯t care about it, there¡¯s no need to suffer even after the marriage.¡±


    ¡°What if she suppresses me with filial piety?¡±


    ¡°You just do as much as your elder sister-inw and second sister-inw do. If you truly disagree, she can¡¯t control you.¡±


    ¡°Remember you said this, Tong Sang. That¡¯s just the way I am. If I trulye into conflict with your mother, even though it may put you in a hard spot, I absolutely won¡¯t suffer any unworthy grievances.¡± Qiao Xiaomai looked at him with nting eyes.


    ¡°Do as your heart desires, you don¡¯t have to worry about me.¡± Tong Sang took her hand.


    At this moment, he sincerely prayed to all gods, hoping that his mother¡¯s goal was only to go back to the life they used to have.


    Early the next morning, Tong Sang went to Doctor Wu¡¯s house under the pretense of getting medicine for Zhang. He returned looking furious not muchter.


    ¡°Mother, have you been faking your illness?!¡± He clenched his fists, his ck eyes full of anger, his lips tightly pressed together.


    Seeing his reaction, Zhang was taken aback and initially denied it. When she could no longer avoid it, she had to admit, ¡°Yes, I¡¯ve been trying to make you propose. If you won¡¯t, I¡¯ll kill myself in front of you!¡±


    Whether it was dying from illness ormitting suicide, either way, she was using her death to threaten Tong Sang!


    Tong Sang was genuinely heartbroken. After regaining hisposure, he said, ¡°I can propose, but there is one condition. As soon as Miss Qiao moves in, your illness must improve and we must separate households.¡±


    ¡°Why should I?!¡± Zhang became furious instantly upon hearing this.


    ¡°Because you¡¯ve been lying to her! Once she realizes the truth after moving in, given her personality, she might pack her dowry and go home. What then? Don¡¯t forget that His Highness, the Prince Wei, is her patron. If sheins to him that our family has deceived her, do you think His Highness will spare us?!¡±<div>


    ¡°Once we¡¯ve separated households and you don¡¯t trouble her, even if she discovers the truth, as long as she¡¯s treated well in our family, she might let it go.¡±


    At the mention of Yang Ye, Zhang¡¯s fury immediately died down.


    She wanted to say that once Qiao Xiaomai married into the Tong Family, she would forever be a part of it. But considering Yang Ye¡¯s influence, if he intervened to ask for a divorce, or even punished her, it would truly be a case of the hen failing to steal an egg and instead losing the rice she¡¯d brought to feed it.


    With this in mind, Zhang gritted her teeth and nodded, ¡°Fine, as long as she marries into the family, my illness will magically recover, and we¡¯ll immediately separate households!¡±<div>


    [Finally, the marriage is going to happen¡­]

 Chapter 517: 517: The Origin of Yingniang

    Chapter 517: The Origin of Yingniang


    Qiao Xiaomai had a furrowed brow, and Madam Sun was buzzing like a relentless fly outside the door, making it hard for her to concentrate.


    She was already in a bad mood because of her menstrual cycle, and bumping into Madam Sun, the detestable spoiler, had absolutely worsened her mood.


    Qiao Changshun, Qiao Zhaodi, and Qiao Yindi, all tried to persuade her, telling her to bear with it.


    Given her physical difort, they advised her not to confront Madam Sun.


    As a result, Madam Sun kept rambling on until noon.


    Qiao Changshun got up and went into the kitchen to make lunch.


    The house had rice, flour, firewood, a vegetable garden, and a water well, so staying inside for three days wasn¡¯t a problem.


    He didn¡¯t believe that Madam Sun could keep loitering outside.


    Indeed, Madam Sun couldn¡¯t carry on. It was a scorcher of a day, and after standing at Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s door, peeking through the gap and shouting the whole morning, she was tired, hot, and thirsty.


    ¡°Yingniang, let¡¯s go back to my ce,¡± she climbed back onto the cart and headed back to the Qiao family¡¯s old courtyard.<div>


    At the Qiao family¡¯s old courtyard, Qiao Meipan was about to make lunch.


    Qiao Qinghe hadn¡¯t returned from the fields yet, Qiao Changfu¡¯s family had all moved into the new house built for Qiao Dazhu.


    ¡°Mother, why are you here?¡± Qiao Meipan was a bit surprised to see Madam Sun driving a cart into the courtyard.


    ¡°A bowl of water first,¡± Madam Sun waved her hand.


    She was parched after all the morning¡¯s talking.


    After drinking the water and soothing her throat, she quickly had Yingniang dismount from the cart.


    ¡°Sit down, we¡¯re simple folk so don¡¯t be too critical,¡± Madam Sun said with a polite smile.


    Yingniang gave a warm smile, ¡°Madam Sun, you need not be so formal.¡±


    Qiao Meipan observed the two from the side, a bit confused.


    Madam Sun noticed her look, and exined to her, finally adding, ¡°To prevent that wretched girl Qiao Xiaomai from looting your elder brother¡¯s property, we need to find him a suitable woman!¡±


    Qiao Meipan was taken aback, but slowly nodded.


    Then, uncontroble envy welled up in her eyes.


    Last time, when she tried to frame Tong Sang by nting his trousers, she ended up bing the joke of the entire Anping Vige.


    With that incident hanging over her, how could she possibly get married¡­


    Her expectations weren¡¯t high; a situation like Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s was sufficient. The woman in front of her, Yingniang, was truly lucky.


    Madam Sun sent Qiao Meipan off to cook, then sat in the courtyard, asking Yingniang, ¡°What do you think of Changshun?¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s fine, just as Madam Sun described.¡± Yingniang¡¯s fair face blushed a little.


    She and her man used to run a small tavern in the county outskirts frequented by soldiers from the barracks. However, after the death of her husband, she struggled to keep it going and was contemting whether to shut it down.@@novelbin@@


    Then, she met Sun Junyan, who worked for Cen Hong. Sun Junyan introduced her to a potential spouse: Qiao Changshun.<div>


    She saw Qiao Changshun among a group of rough men in the morning; he might have looked older than his years, but his features were well-proportioned, and on closer inspection, he was quite handsome.


    Though he seemed a bit inept and walked with a limp, such men were easy to manipte, obedient.


    Moreover, his substantial family wealth, five hundred acres of farnd, thousands of taels of silver, he would be considered a local tycoon even in the county town.


    So, speaking of Qiao Changshun, she was very satisfied, extremely satisfied.<div>


    ¡°I¡¯m d you¡¯re satisfied. Xiaomai might be a bit stubborn, but that¡¯s okay. She is to be wed one day,¡± Madam Sun said this, but she couldn¡¯t help worrying as she remembered the previous incident.


    If Qiao Xiaomai was capable of hitting people, and fellow vigers were always working around Qiao Changshun, how could Yingniang get close to Qiao Changshun without any trouble?


    Moreover, Qiao Xiaomai and Tong Sang had been flirting for so long, why hadn¡¯t they still got married yet?

 Chapter 550: 550: She Likes Tong Sanlang

    Chapter 550: Chapter 550: She Likes Tong Sang


    No wonder Qiao Changshun was so hesitant, it was mainly because the Zhang Family¡¯sst intimidating visit left him with too many shadows.


    His Xiaomai is not worried about finding a husband.


    Upon hearing this, Tong Tiehu stood up from his stool, then knelt down in front of Qiao Changshun with sincerity, saying, ¡°My mother cannot wait. Please, Uncle Changshun, make a decision soon. I, Tiehu, genuinely want to marry Xiaomai. I swear I will love and protect her and will not let her suffer any grievances.¡±


    ¡°If I can¡¯t do this, I¡¯m willing to ept Uncle Changshun¡¯s punishment.¡±


    ¡°Eh? What¡¯s this, child, get up!¡± Surprised that Tong Tiehu would kneel, Qiao Changshun quickly reached out to help him up.


    ¡°This kneeling is necessary, to reassure Uncle Changshun to entrust Xiaomai to me.¡± Tiehu added.


    ¡°Ah, let me and Xiaomai think a little more, we will give you an answer tonight.¡± Recalling all the help Tong Tiehu had given these past few months, Qiao Changshun¡¯s doubts towards Tong Tiehu slightly tipped the bnce in his favour.


    Watching Tiehu, Qiao Xiaomai, with her peach blossomy eyes, also said, ¡°You get up,e over again tonight.¡±


    Really now, it was all just a y, but he was just so into it!


    Having received an annoyed look from Qiao Xiaomai, Tong Tiehu took a deep look at her, then stood up.<div>


    ¡°Then I¡¯lle again tonight.¡± After that, he bid farewell and left.


    After his tall figure disappeared from the doorway, Qiao Changshun sighed, ¡°Ah, what¡¯s going on? Such a goodd, why does he have such a mother!¡±


    Coming for meals, using Xiaomai of clinging to other nobles.


    That day, standing at the entrance of the vige with her hands on her hips, quarrelling with the Sun Family, she was just another Sun Family.


    ¡°Father, back at the threshing field that day, Brother Sang risked his life to save me. He was willing to give up his life for me. He should be able to withstand his mother¡­¡± Qiao Xiaomai started, with a look of hesitation on her face.


    ¡°What¡¯s the use of risking his life? That woman is his own mother.¡± Qiao Changshun sighed.


    No one understood better than him theplexity and bitterness in this.


    Hearing this, Qiao Xiaomai raised an eyebrow, ¡°If worsees to worst, I cane back home. By then, Mother will also be back, and we will still be a family of four.¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s a big difference between being a daughter and a daughter-inw, you can¡¯t easily run back home whenever you want.¡±


    ¡°If I want to go back, I¡¯ll go back, who can stop me? Filial piety? This term is too broad. Life is for people to live by themselves. It¡¯s just Tiehu¡¯s mother, what¡¯s there to fear?¡± Qiao Xiaomai snorted.


    Let her be unfilial. If Zhang Family can go to the County Town to sue her, then see if they dare!


    With Tong Tiehu and the County Magistrate present, if Zhang Family can win thewsuit, then the sun must rise from the west.


    ¡°You want to get married?¡± Qiao Changshun asked.


    ¡°His mother is dying. She insists I marry him out of gratitude for the help the Tong family lent me in the past. If I don¡¯t marry him, and his mother really dies, will the Tong Family hold me responsible for Zhang Family¡¯s death?¡± Qiao Xiaomai asked.


    ¡°They wouldn¡¯t dare!¡± Upon hearing this, Qiao Changshun was immediately angry.


    ¡°Regardless whether they dare or not, the fact is already on this stage. Dad, you don¡¯t want me to marry and go far away, then Third Brother Tong Tiehu is the best destination. And if I marry Tiehu, that¡¯s me marrying beneath my station. If I encounter any grievances, I can make a fuss.¡±


    She actually understood Qiao Changshun¡¯s thoughts.


    Marrying into a high rank means marrying up, if she suffered any grievances, there would be no one to stand for her, and she might have to endure it.


    But the Tong Family was different, just an average rural household, any grievance reported to Yang Ye would be considered minor for him, easily resolved with a wave of his hand.<div>


    The most important thing is, she liked Tong Tiehu.


    Just this reason alone is enough for her to happily get married.

 Chapter 551: 551: The Issue of Dowry

    Chapter 551: Chapter 551: The Issue of Dowry


    Seeing that Qiao Xiaomai had made up her mind, Qiao Changshun sighed.


    Well, that had touched a chord with him. Although Qiao Xiaomai had more choices now, if she married and moved somewhere else, leaving him with just Qiao Dami and Zhuang Luhe, he wouldn¡¯t feel great about it.


    ¡°Then, first get the Vige Chief Tong to talk upfront about whether Sang¡¯s mother lives or dies, it has nothing to do with you.¡± He advised.


    Qiao Xiaomai nodded, ¡°Of course.¡±


    Consequently, when Tong Sang came over that night, the definitive response he got was ¡°marry.¡±


    Marry!


    At first, upon hearing the word, Tong Sang was stunned, then emotions of joy quickly spread from his eyes across his face, soon they engulfed his entire body.


    Unconsciously, he stuck out his tongue and licked his dry lips, stumbling over his words, ¡°This, this is wonderful, wonderful, wonderful!¡±


    ¡°Then go invite your grandfather and father over. Let¡¯s discuss the wedding arrangements.¡± Qiao Changshun said, standing aside and watching him, his feelingsplicated.


    When he learned years ago that Zhuang Luhe was to marry him, he was just as ecstatic as a fool.<div>


    Upon hearing these words, Tong Sang nodded vigorously, lifted his foot and used light steps to fly away.


    Qiao Xiaomai watched his handsome figure retreating, silently admonishing to herself, was there any need for him to act so excitedly, she had already agreed to his marriage proposal long ago.


    However, she did appreciate his joyful expression.


    Soon enough, Tong Tiehu, Tong Xingda, and Tong Sang arrived.


    Zhu Hongyun and the Qian Family also wanted to join, but were stopped by them.


    Both sides sat down under the willow tree, Tong Tiehu stated frankly, ¡°Changsun, the matter of Sang¡¯s mother¡¯s sickness can¡¯t wait, how about getting married three dayster?¡±


    ¡°In such a hurry?¡± Qiao Changshun was taken aback.


    Qiao Xiaomai was also somewhat surprised, three dayster?


    Others took several months to prepare for marriage, whereas she had nothing?


    ¡°There¡¯s no other way. It¡¯s for good luck; Sang¡¯s mother¡¯s health can¡¯t wait.¡± Tong Tiehu said.


    ¡°But wouldn¡¯t this be too unfair on Xiaomai? Just three days, what can she prepare?¡±


    She didn¡¯t insist on having a new house, but she must at least have some furniture, right?


    There is also the wedding gown, and Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s dowry, none of this has been prepared yet!


    ¡°She doesn¡¯t need to prepare anything, Xiaomai can simply bring two boxes of new clothes when she marries. Keep everything simple. Once Sang¡¯s mother improves, and my Tong Family¡¯s days also improve, a new ceremony can be conducted for her and Sang.¡± Tong Tiehu said.


    This was also the result of his discussion with Tong Sang.


    Zhang Family merely wanted money, Qiao Xiaomai would not bring a dowry, saving the possibility of Zhang Family getting greedy and causing trouble.


    The women of the Tong Family were traditionally given two wooden boxes when they married; this way, it wouldn¡¯t be necessary for Qiao Xiaomai to make a big show.


    ¡°Um¡­¡± Qiao Changshun was dumbfounded.


    His daughter, Xiaomai, with her current status, shouldn¡¯t she at least have a grand style, even if not extravagant?<div>


    Just two wooden boxes?


    That had to be a joke!


    ¡°Of course, if Xiaomai has things she feels are practical, she can also bring them along. After Sang¡¯s mother¡¯s health improves and we separate, they will be the only ones living in the old courtyard. They can keep as many things there as they like.¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡± Upon hearing this, Qiao Changshun was stunned.<div>


    Qiao Xiaomai too was stunned.


    This did not align with what Tong Sang had previously said.


    Tong Sang had said before that Tong Tiehu and Qian Family would also live in the old courtyard.


    ¡°The newly married couple needs some space. We old folks won¡¯t crowd around them.¡± Seeing that both father and daughter in the Qiao Family were stunned, Tong Tiehu exined.

 Chapter 520: Qiao Qinghe and His Real Wife and Child

    Chapter 520: Qiao Qinghe and His Real Wife and Child


    Qiao Qinghe didn¡¯t move, only standing and watching himself being hit. Mrs. Sun was immediately aggrieved and cried out, ¡°My husband, are you just going to stand there and watch this shrew hit me?!¡±


    Before Qiao Qinghe could respond, Hua Xiaofeng gave a coldugh and spat a thick glob of saliva at Mrs. Sun.


    Mrs. Sun wasn¡¯t expecting such a move and was unable to avoid it. The glob of thick salivanded square on her neck.


    The warm and sticky feeling caused her body to shiver. At that moment, Hua Xiaofeng¡¯s harsh words echoed, ¡°Shameless old hag! Years ago, you seduced your son-inw into your bed. An innocent schr was turned into an old man because of you!¡±


    ¡°Do you even have the face to ask your son-inw for help? He spares your life and that¡¯s already being fair for your past deeds!¡±


    Years ago, when Hua Xiaofeng came to cause a stir, she first inquired about Mrs. Sun¡¯s reputation among the people of Anping Vige.


    Mrs. Sun was not well-regarded. Qiao Qinghe was originally a schr, tall and handsome, with a much brighter future thanmonbourers.


    But all because the frail Qiao Qinghe was rescued by the Sun Family first, he was then stuck to the Sun Family.


    The result of alcohol-induced debauchery?


    @@novelbin@@


    For someone like Mrs. Sun, it must have been Mrs. Sun who took advantage of Qiao Qinghe.


    And that one mistake cost him half of his life.


    When Hua Xiaofeng came to cause trouble that year, Qiao Qinghe was just over thirty years old, and his schrly demeanor was particrly ipatible with a shrew like Mrs. Sun. Back then, Hua Xiaofeng sighed at their disparity.


    And today, seeing the aged look of Qiao Qinghe, she sighed even more.


    So, when Mrs. Sun was calling for help, Hua Xiaofeng poked at her weak points mercilessly.


    Years ago, Mrs. Sun shamelessly forced Qiao Qinghe into her bed and ruined his life. It was only due to Qiao Qinghe¡¯s kindness that he didn¡¯t kill her. Now she had the audacity to ask for help?


    Disgusting!


    At these words, Qiao Qinghe, who was previously frowning tightly, became stunned.


    This matter?


    Hua Xiaofeng brought up this matter?


    How many years have passed?


    He was in a daze. Suddenly, images of his wife and children appeared in his mind, and his chest felt as if it was constricted by a heavy stone, his breathing bing difficult.


    Qiao Xiaomai looked up and noticed Qiao Qinghe¡¯s expression. A thought suddenly popped into her head.


    Did Qiao Qinghe¡¯s wife and children really die by drowning all those years ago?


    What if they didn¡¯t?


    That mother and child were the real family of Qiao Qinghe. The woman before them, Mrs. Sun, may have kept Qiao Qinghe through despicable means all those years ago, but what she stole would always remain as stolen. The fact wouldn¡¯t change no matter how much time has passed.


    Could she hire someone to investigate this matter from years past?


    Just as Qiao Qinghe and Qiao Xiaomai were lost in thought, Zhuang Jia, pping his hands, encouraged Hua Xiaofeng, ¡°Mother, aim for her head! Hit her hard!¡±


    This shout brought Qiao Xiaomai back to her senses. She quickly spoke up, ¡°Don¡¯t kill her.¡±


    The head is too vulnerable. If she really did beat her to death, they would have to face legal consequences.


    Hua Xiaofeng had the situation under control and reassured her, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I know what I am doing.¡±


    First, using arge broom to assert dominance and beat Mrs. Sun into submission, then she could personally beat her with punches and kicks.


    As Qiao Xiaomai was weak due to menstruation, it was a great opportunity for Hua Xiaofeng to establish herself!


    Seeing her screaming pleas for help were useless, Mrs. Sun stopped crying. Taking advantage of the moment when Hua Xiaofeng raised her broom, Mrs. Sun released her head, sprang up from the ground, and ran towards her house.


    Upon seeing this, Hua Xiaofeng quickly gave chase, shouting, ¡°Stop!¡±


    ¡°Ah, grandmother, don¡¯t hurry.¡± Seeing Hua Xiaofeng picking up the broom to chase, Qiao Xiaomai quickly stopped her.


    Mrs. Sun ran like a rabbit, faster than a broom could catch up with.


    ¡°Grandma, don¡¯t panic. Let¡¯s finish eating first, then we can go raise a ruckus at Mrs. Sun¡¯s house.¡± Qiao Xiaomai said cheerfully.

 Chapter 553: 553: Did She Marry Just to Suffer?

    Chapter 553: Chapter 553: Did She Marry Just to Suffer?


    After Xiaomai finished speaking, Tong Tiehu frowned, ¡°The Tong Family should have a betrothal gift.¡±


    ¡°That bolt of cloth will do. After all, I¡¯m not bringing a dowry.¡± She packed her daily clothes and items into boxes and brought them to the Tong Family.


    If she¡¯s not happy in the Tong Family, she¡¯ll just go back to her own home.


    ¡°Okay.¡± Since Xiaomai has spoken, Tong Tiehu had no objections.


    Tong Tiehu didn¡¯t have any objections, and neither did Tong Xingda and Tong Sang.


    And thus, this matter was settled.


    The few of them discussed some details until deep into the night, and the three from the Tong Family eventually left.


    Qiao Changshun sat in the courtyard, looking up at the stars in the sky, listening to the sporadic noises of the frogs, his heart heavy.


    Zhuang Luhe was gone, and now Xiaomai was about to get married too.


    Even if she was just moving to another house in the same vige, it still made his heart ache.<div>


    After Xiaomai finished washing up, seeing Qiao Changshun gazing at the stars, she couldn¡¯t help but say, ¡°Dad, you should wash up and sleep.¡±


    After a pause, she added, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I wille back every day.¡±


    At this, Qiao Changshun couldn¡¯t help but smile, albeit a bit bitterly. ¡°A married daughter is not supposed to visit her parents¡¯ house every day, the people of the Tong Family may not like that.¡±


    ¡°What do you mean, ¡®supposed to¡¯? Can I note back ording to the Daqi Law? Who in this vige would dare to give me a hard time or spread rumors about me?¡± Xiaomai sniffed in contempt. To kidnap her by so-called conventions was simply naive.


    As long as she doesn¡¯t vite the Daqi Laws, she is free to do as she wishes.


    Hearing this, Qiao Changshun couldn¡¯t help but sigh. ¡°You need to change your temper. Keep in mind Sang is in the middle of all this; you wouldn¡¯t want to make things difficult for him.¡±


    ¡°Dad, did you forget what he said today? He said he would protect me. If he can¡¯t, well, hmph.¡± Xiaomai sniffed again.


    She would fulfill her duty as a daughter-inw, but she wouldn¡¯t tolerate undue grievances.


    Seeing her like this, Qiao Changshun heaved another sigh. ¡°In a family, it¡¯s impossible to always clearly divide everything.¡±


    ¡°Those who aren¡¯t blind can see clearly.¡±


    Changshun paused at these words, which seemed to bear some kind of implied meaning¡­


    ¡°Wash up and sleep. Stop overthinking.¡± Xiaomai added, walking into the house.


    Qiao Changshun sat in the courtyard for a while longer, rubbed his face, then stood up and left to wash up.


    While the Qiao Family slept, someone at the Tong Family was having a sleepless night.


    Upon learning that Xiaomai was only bringing two boxes of dowry, the Zhang Family was infuriated. What had they set their sights on?


    They were after Xiaomai¡¯s silver, hoping to live the life they used to lead. But now Xiaomai was only bringing two boxes, it looked as if Xiaomai hade to endure hardship?


    Tong Tiehu, seeing this, snorted coldly. ¡°If you¡¯re not happy, go negotiate with Xiaomai yourself!¡±


    ¡°We could simply call off the wedding if you prefer!¡±


    Upon hearing these words, the Zhang Family¡¯s fury subsided a bit.<div>


    If she went to talk to Xiaomai by herself, would she not expose her feigned illness?


    Xiaomai wouldn¡¯t really being to their home to endure hardship, would she¡­?


    She would surely bring several acres ofnd and some silver, right?


    Thinking this, she directly asked Tong Sang.<div>


    Tong Sang responded without any expression, ¡°Can our family afford a betrothal gift?¡±


    The women of the Tong Family all received a higher betrothal gift than their dowry when they got married. Now that the Tong Family can¡¯t afford a corresponding betrothal gift, why should they expect Xiaomai to bring a hefty dowry?

 Chapter 554: 554 Announcement

    Chapter 554: Chapter 554 Announcement


    No demand for dowry meant that Qiao Xiaomai moving in wouldn¡¯t change the Tong Family¡¯s day-to-day life!


    ¡°Is she reallying here to endure hardships? Will she work in our fields too?¡± Unable to respond to Tong Sang¡¯s question, Zhang Family hastily retorted.


    ¡°We have a small piece ofnd, I can take care of her part.¡± Tong Sang said, ¡°Otherwise, Qiao Family hasrger fields, Uncle Changshun can¡¯t handle it all by himself, she needs to aid him in his work.¡±


    ¡°Since she¡¯s married into our family, how could she still work for the Qiao Family?!¡± Hearing this, Zhang Family¡¯s simmering rage started boiling over again.


    ¡°Mother, haven¡¯t you also been helping out your own family over the years? Why can¡¯t Xiaomai do the same?¡± Seeing the Zhang Family¡¯s face turn red in fury, Tong San continued to provoke her.


    ¡°That¡¯s because your grandmother¡¯s family was poor, I had no choice but to help them. But what about her Qiao Family¡¯s situation? Do they need any help?¡± Zhang Family asked rhetorically, full of indignation.


    ¡°If you don¡¯t want to marry her, then just don¡¯t! Why so much nonsense!¡± Tong Tiehu, irritated by the endless prattle, snapped angrily, his face dark with anger. ¡°This daughter-inw was brought here because you wanted her, you have to treat her well! If you think you can y the powerful mother-inw role with her, you best forget about it. Remember how you tricked her intoing here!¡±


    ¡°Go ahead and make a fuss if you¡¯re not afraid of being punished by His Highness Wei Wang!¡±


    Tong Tiehu finished his rant, ignoring herpletely and storming out of the room.


    Stupid. Utterly stupid.<div>


    Why did I let these foolish women into the house back then?


    Was it because the Tong Family was well-off, so these people managed to hide their true natures?


    It¡¯s scary.


    Too scary!


    With a shake of his head and a heavy sigh, Tong Tiehu returned to his room.


    He had important things to do tomorrow, so he had to go to bed early.


    Tong Tiehu left and Tong Xingda, seeing Zhang Family still fuming, threw a p at her, ¡°You damned woman, who do you think you are to make so much fuss?! If you¡¯re not happy, go back to your parents¡¯ house, the Tong Family doesn¡¯t need you!¡±


    A few pster, and Zhang Family finally calmed down.


    Nheless, thinking about everything that was said, she couldn¡¯t help feeling sad. What had all her struggles been for?


    Wasn¡¯t it all for Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s silver?


    But now Qiao Xiaomai, with just two suitcases, wasing to the Tong Family to endure hardship¡­ What were they to do?


    As the Zhang Family sighed in sorrow, the night passed quickly.


    Early the next morning, Tong Tiehu rang therge bell at the entrance of the vige.


    Despite harboring grudges against Vige Chief Tong Tiehu due to the bean sprout incident, everyone recognized his authority and his previous fair dealings, so at the sound of the bell¡ª as was customary¡ª everyone gathered in the thrashing yard.


    The news that Tong Tiehu delivered stunned them.


    Owing to Zhang Family¡¯s serious illness, Tong Sang was to wed Qiao Xiaomai, to provide auspicious happiness!


    Auspicious happiness!


    Considering Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s current circumstances, was she really going to hastily marry Tong Sang as a measure of good luck?


    Wasn¡¯t that too unfair?!<div>


    While everyone had noticed the interaction between the two, Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s current status was in a different ss altogether. This was a great injustice!


    ¡°Xiaomai had agreed to this marriage because of my past assistance to her. Xiaomai is righteous, and the Tong Family cannot be ungrateful. Honestly, with this marriage, it¡¯s the Tong Family who are marrying up.¡±


    At this point, Tong Tiehu continued, ¡°That¡¯s why I¡¯m asking everyone in the vige to bear witness. After Xiaomai gets married and moves in, whether Zhang Family lives or dies, it has nothing to do with her. No one is allowed to tarnish her reputation with this.¡±


    ¡°If they do, both she and I will appeal to the local count for justice!¡±<div>

 Chapter 523: 523: Fight!

    Chapter 523: Fight!


    Qiao Xiaomai observed the situation and furrowed her brows, loudly eximing, ¡°Are you trying to get yourself killed, Sun Family?!¡±


    In the heat of summer, with a fire aze, the heat was overwhelming and made it impossible to approach.


    The heat wave stopped Sun Family¡¯s approach to the house, and she unconsciously retreated a few steps.


    There was nothing valuable in the house. Since it was in a deserted area with few people, it would be useless even to lock the door if robbers targeted it. Whenever she left home, she would always carry her silver with her.


    For instance, she currently carried twenty taels of silver.


    While the house was barren of valuables, it still provided a ce for her to settle and make a living, housing her daily necessities.


    Being banished from the vige, fine, she would live in the wastnds.


    Tong Tiehu had prepared this house for her, brand new in all its glory.


    When she first saw this house, her anxiety was somewhat lessened.


    However now, thisforting house was burnt to cinders by Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s fire!<div>


    Her eyes were bloodshot as she red fiercely at Qiao Xiaomai, standing on the donkey cart, ¡°I¡¯ll fight you!¡±


    Her body shot towards Qiao Xiaomai like a canon.


    Hua Xiaofeng had always been on the lookout for Sun Family. Seeing Sun Family charging towards Qiao Xiaomai, she flung the handful of sand she carefully held in her hand at her, ¡°You old hag, prepare to be beaten!¡±


    When it came to real battle experience, Sun Family was far inferior to Hua Xiaofeng.


    Sun Family had merely bullied Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s family in the Qiao Family, while Hua Xiaofeng had confronted the whole Zhuang Family vige. As a widow, without adopting a shrewish manner, she could not have managed to raise Zhuang Luhe and Zhuang Jia.


    As soon as she saw Sun Family approaching, she flung the sand she held in her hand to blind her, then immediately rushed over and gave her a kick in the butt.


    Sun Family yelped as she lost control of her body and was propelled a few steps forward before tumbling to the ground.


    Taking advantage of this, Hua Xiaofeng pounced on her, raising her hand and harshly smacking Sun Family¡¯s head, ¡°Wretched woman! Even burning your house was too kind. For your crimes, beating you to death wouldn¡¯t even be enough to vent my anger!¡±


    ¡°All these years, how many times have you hit Luhe? Now you even dare to nder her reputation, won¡¯t stop until I¡¯ve torn that foul mouth of yours apart!¡±


    After several blows to her head, Hua Xiaofeng aimed at Sun Family¡¯s face, striking from left then right, delivering several heavy ps. Sun Family¡¯s cheeks instantly swelled up, and blood appeared at the corner of her mouth.


    Sun Family was temporarily blinded by the sand, giving Hua Xiaofeng the upper hand. She wouldn¡¯t stay passive for long, though; without any weapons in Hua Xiaofeng¡¯s hands, she wasn¡¯t afraid of her!@@novelbin@@


    She suddenly howled, forcefully flinging Hua Xiaofeng off her body. Although her eyes still hurt and itched, making her unable to see clearly, she could form a blurry silhouette of Hua Xiaofeng and was about to charge towards her when another fistful of sand hit her in the face.


    In the field, sand was the most abundant. Hua Xiaofeng, experienced in fighting, seeing how the pain in Sun Family¡¯s eyes caused her to pause, charged again. This time, she used not just her hands, but also her feet. She pulled Sun Family¡¯s hair, pped her, twisted and turned on her body, and viciously kicked her.


    Sun Family had lost miserably to Hua Xiaofeng, who was quickest to grab a handful of sand.


    Qiao Xiaomai stood on the donkey cart witnessing this one-sided beating. She couldn¡¯t help but click her tongue in amazement. Hua Xiaofeng was really impressive.


    She indeed needed an elder like Hua Xiaofeng to withstand Sun Family and Zhang Family.


    [Feeling avenged yet?]

 Chapter 556: 556: The Day Before the Wedding

    Chapter 556: Chapter 556: The Day Before the Wedding


    For the next two days, the Tong Family grew busier by the day. They had their own pigs, and they hadn¡¯t ughtered them all during Tong Tiehu¡¯s birthday banquet; this time, they were set to butcher another one. Tong Sang also went hunting to replenish their stock for the feast ¡ª they didn¡¯t have a lot of silver, so hunting had be a necessary task.


    Zhang Family¡¯s matriarch was ¡°ill¡± and hadn¡¯t created much fuss. Today, Qiao Xiaomai ranked first in all of Anping Vige; even their matriarch, who had held a grudge against her, had no choice but to ept it.


    The day before the wedding, Qiao Xiaomai went to the Academy to invite Yang Ye to attend her wedding the next day.


    After hearing her recount the chain of events, Yang Ye clucked his tongue, ¡°What a bother¡­ Why does this seem even moreplicated than the politics at the Imperial Court?¡±


    ¡°What else can I do when I¡¯ve set my heart on him?¡± Qiao Xiaomai felt tired.


    ¡°You could marry me, you know? How about bing my queen?¡± Yang Ye asked jokingly.


    ¡°Your Highness, stop joking around. I¡¯m just a simple country girl; my lowly status will only bring yours down.¡±


    At her words, Yang Ye chuckled coldly. ¡°Thatd Tong Sang has really struck it big.¡±


    To be able to taste Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s culinary skills every day¡ªwhat a wonderful life that would be!


    ¡°So, will Your Highnesse tomorrow?¡± Qiao Xiaomai asked.<div>


    ¡°Of course, I¡¯ll be there to support you. Now you are someone with powerful backing; even your mother-inw wouldn¡¯t dare to bully you.¡± Despite his words, Yang Ye¡¯s handsome face was clearly unhappy.


    He had never harbored any romantic feelings towards Qiao Xiaomai.


    But, now that Qiao Xiaomai was going to get married¡ªto be someone else¡¯s wife and make soup for another man¡­ A sudden rush of bitterness filled his heart¡­


    Qiao Xiaomai noticed the change in his countenance but didn¡¯t say much. ¡°Then, I look forward to Your Highness¡¯s esteemed presence tomorrow.¡±


    ¡°Just wait!¡± With that, Yang Ye waved his hand while his eyes darted around restlessly.


    After Qiao Xiaomai had left, Yang Ye immediately summoned his Personal Guard to prepare the congrattory gift for the next day.


    Upon leaving the Academy, Qiao Xiaomai headed straight for Ji Wei Ju, a local restaurant after some thought.


    Though she was to be a bride the next day, the vige customs were simple, and the wedding ceremony only took ce at noon. In times of financial hardship, brides still worked in the field even on the morning of their wedding day.


    What a life¡­


    The wedding banquet at the Tong Family was certainly no ce for a prince like Yang Ye. She decided to take initiatives into her own hands.


    She bought a bunch of things and did her preparations. The washing, the soaking¡­ By the time she was done, it waste afternoon.


    Qiao Changshun returned driving a donkey cart. He had gone to the Tong Family¡¯s residence.


    Seeing that Qiao Xiaomai had returned, he sighed.


    ¡°Dad, what¡¯s the matter?¡± Qiao Xiaomai asked.


    ¡°I¡¯m feeling sorry for you.¡±


    He¡¯d been to the Tong Family¡¯s residence a while ago. While the house had been cleaned thoroughly and her groom¡¯s room had been well prepared, nothing else had seen any significant changes.


    The wardrobe was the same; the bookshelf was the same; even the bedding remained the same.


    Not a single new item had been added.


    The conditions were as difficult as when he and Zhuang Luhe had gotten married, even though their family was affluent now!<div>


    ¡°It¡¯s okay.¡± Having heard Qiao Changshun¡¯sints, Qiao Xiaomai chuckled nonchntly.


    All those things were items with which Tong Sang had spent many years; she didn¡¯t mind them.


    Now, she could rightfully move in and tidy up his room. That was enough to make up for all inconveniences.


    ¡°You silly girl.¡± Qiao Changshun couldn¡¯t help but sigh.<div>


    Hearing this, Qiao Xiaomai opened her eyes wide; she didn¡¯t expect her father to call her foolish too.


    ¡°Dad, leave my room as it is. If they ever make me feel ufortable, I cane back anytime. Don¡¯t worry.¡± She reassured him.


    Upon hearing this, the frown on Qiao Changshun¡¯s face rxed.


    Indeed, he won¡¯t touch anything of Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s at home. If she ever felt ufortable, she could return anytime.


    Whether that was the right thing to do or not, none of that mattered as much as Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s well-being.


    [The official wedding ceremony tomorrow! That¡¯s it for today¡¯s update!]

 Chapter 525: 525: The Business is in Bad Shape

    Chapter 525: The Business is in Bad Shape


    With Qiao Yindi present, Xiaomai and Qiao acted professionally and courteously. They only discussed the events of the day, without veering off topic.


    On their return to the vige, Xiaomai hitched a ride home on Tong¡¯s ox cart. He assured her, ¡°Miss, rest easy. If given the opportunity, my family will certainly clear things up with the vigers. We will not tarnish your reputation.¡±


    ¡°I appreciate the effort, Brother Tong.¡± Xiaomai responded with a distant smile.


    Xiaomai nodded at her, then drove his ox cart home.


    Once home, dinner had just been prepared.


    At the dinner table, Tong Tiehu mentioned the matter.


    ¡°It¡¯s no big deal. If the vigers won¡¯t buy, we can sell our goods in town.¡± Xiaomai replied.


    The matter of reputation seemed to fade whenpared to the hunger for wealth.


    At least his family felt this way.


    After dinner, Tiehu went to his room, troubled by the situation, ¡°It¡¯s my fault.¡±<div>


    He was not one to worry about money. Despite living in the vige for a lifetime, he couldn¡¯t bear to fret over every single penny like the average viger.


    If he had that level of foresight, he surely would have intervened when his family was setting the price for bean sprouts.


    ¡°It¡¯s no big deal. Sun Family¡¯s reputation is bad too, yet they¡¯re still getting by.¡± Xiaomai consoled him.


    ¡°It¡¯s not the same.¡±


    Sun Family tricked Qiao Changshun, while they were deceiving their fellow vigers.


    ¡°Our family has always been different from the rest of the vigers.¡±


    ¡°But we will continue to live in this vige.¡±


    ¡°We¡¯ll see how things go, no need to worry prematurely.¡± Xiaomai reassured him.


    Tiehu sighed, wait and see?


    Just as Tiehu predicted, news of the matter quickly spread throughout the vige.


    The following day, not a single customer visited the new house of the Tong Family.


    Although the price of maltose and vinegar was consistent with vige expectations, the overpriced bean sprouts led to a decline in sales for the other goods as well.


    That night, Tong came to see Xiaomai. He expressed confusion about the situation.


    Indeed, the bean sprouts were priced higher than Xiaomai¡¯s, but the prices for maltose and vinegar were unchanged, and these items had never been a rip-off to the vigers before.


    Xiaomai patted the back of his hand, ¡°People are feeling uneasy because they¡¯ve lived side by side with your family for decades and hold you in high regard. But this sudden revtion unsettles them.¡±


    Would Tong Family lie over such a small profit after decades of harmonious coexistence?


    If they had been straight with the vigers and shared the profit margins of selling eight pounds of bean sprouts for a gain of a mere five coins, there wouldn¡¯t have been any issue.


    But their secretive and deceitful approach was too much.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, it¡¯ll blow over in a few days. Vinegar is an essential item. Since there are no peddlers in the vige, if the vigers run out, they¡¯ll have no choice but to buy from you.¡± she told him.<div>


    Tong let out a sigh. ¡°I reckon my ma and the others will cause a row again.¡±


    The profits from the vinegar were already slim. After this incident, business would be even tougher.


    Previously, their main ie source was selling bean sprouts in town. But given the poption of Bailu Town, they couldn¡¯t earn much from that alone each month.


    Though the vinegar shop used to make some money, the biggest earnings were from the profits of their fields.<div>


    But with no fields now, there was likely to be another uproar.


    ¡°Oh, by the way, did Sun Familye over?¡± he asked.


    ¡°She was beaten severely yesterday and is barely breathing. She¡¯ll probably be bedridden for ten days to half a month. She won¡¯t have time to cause a fuss.¡±@@novelbin@@


    ¡°What do you think Sun Junyan¡¯s response will be?¡± Tong asked.

 Chapter 558: 558 Im going to marry you today!

    Chapter 558: Chapter 558 I¡¯m going to marry you today!


    At this time, Qiao Xiaomai had also put on makeup and changed into new clothes, a red cloth covering her head as she sat on her bed.


    Hearing the lively sound of suona and drums outside, she secretly clenched her lips.


    Suddenly¡­ she was a little nervous.


    Gao Xiaomei sat beside her, hearing Tong Sang¡¯s voice outside, sheughed and said, ¡°Dazhu, hurry and carry Xiaomai out!¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai had no biological brothers, so this task fell on Qiao Dazhu.


    Qiao Dazhu responded, crouching down in front of Qiao Xiaomai, ¡°Xiaomai, hop on!¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai didn¡¯t say a word but stood up, lying on Qiao Dazhu¡¯s back.


    Qiao Dazhu effortlessly rose to his feet with her on his back, a smile on his honest face, ¡°Let¡¯s go!¡±


    Qiao Dazhu carried Qiao Xiaomai out of the house, behind him, Qiao Changfu and Qiao Changkang, with strange expressions, picked up the two one-meter-long wooden boxes.


    Normally, the dowry should be carried out.<div>


    But they easily lifted the boxes.


    Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s dowry was curiously empty¡­


    A crowd of people filled the courtyard, where there were no quirky customs like the groom knocking on the door and the bridesmaids refusing to open it as inter generations. The custom here was straightforward, when the groom came, the bride woulde out.


    Tong Sang stood at the door, watching Qiao Dazhu carrying Qiao Xiaomai out of the house, his smiles and eagerness could no longer be restrained. He could not wait for Qiao Dazhu to approach the entrance, with a slight tap of his toes, his body darted out like an arrow shot out, appearing in front of Qiao Dazhu in a blink of an eye.


    Qiao Dazhu was startled by his sudden presence, taking two steps back.


    ¡°It¡¯s me.¡± Seeing this, Tong Sang quickly exined. Seeing that Qiao Dazhu had steadied himself, he stretched out his arms, ¡°Hand her over to me!¡±


    Qiao Dazhu hesitated, then nodded. He was about to squat and put Qiao Xiaomai on the ground.


    A momentter, he realized that Tong Sang had disappeared. In the next moment, Tong Sang was holding Qiao Xiaomai in his arms, appearing in front of him.


    Qiao Dazhu ¡°¡­.¡±


    Having light Kung Fu skills truly was impressive¡­


    Dazed, he saw Tong Sang already carrying Qiao Xiaomai walking towards the entrance, and he quickly followed.


    At the entrance, Qiao Changshun, Tong Xingda, and Tong Tiehu were talking. Qiao Changshun¡¯s eyes were red, on the verge of tears andughter.


    In a few strides, Tong Sang reached the entrance and stood beside him, ¡°Dad, don¡¯t worry, I will take good care of Xiaomai in the future.¡±


    With that one word ¨C dad, Qiao Changshun was moved to tears. He wiped his eyes and choked up, ¡°I trust you.¡±


    ¡°Changsun, from now on Sang is also your son, this is a day of great joy, be happy.¡± Tong Tiehuforted.


    Hearing this, Qiao Changshun wiped his eyes again, it was aforting thought.


    However, it would have been great if Tong Sang had married into their family!


    Sighing, he pointed to the horse and cart waiting at the entrance. ¡°Put Xiaomai in the cart.¡±


    ¡°No, I want to ride the horse too.¡± At that moment, Qiao Xiaomai, who shouldn¡¯t have spoken, said a sentence.<div>


    She didn¡¯t want to sit in the cart, she wanted to ride the tall horse with Tong Sang.


    Hearing this, Tong Sangughed, ¡°Then we ride the horse!¡±


    He said, his toes tapping slightly, holding Qiao Xiaomai, they gracefullynded on the horse¡¯s back.


    He let Qiao Xiaomai sit in front of him, one hand around her waist, the other holding the reins, ¡°Let¡¯s go!¡±<div>


    ¡°Great!¡± Gao Xiaoshan in the crowd pped enthusiastically.


    That light Kung Fu skill, being able to carry someone and fly, was really enviable!


    Tong Sang caught his apuse from the corner of his eye, shot him a nce and gave a slight smile, turned the horse¡¯s head, and headed towards his own home.

 Chapter 527: 527: Adorably Contrasting

    Chapter 527: Adorably Contrasting


    Immediately, her arms clung around Tong Sang¡¯s neck, her body clung tightly to his like a ko.


    Tong Sang cradled her bottom with one hand and ced the other on her back. With a faint smile on his handsome face, he whispered in her ear, ¡°Don¡¯t be scared, I won¡¯t drop you.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai gritted her teeth and bit his neck, muttering angrily, ¡°You did this on purpose!¡±


    Tong Sang just chuckled softly and pat her on the back, ¡°I can¡¯t possibly let you hold me up high.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong with that!¡± Qiao Xiaomai retorted gruffly.


    ¡°I am a man, considerably taller than you.¡±


    Imagining tiny Qiao Xiaomai lifting him up by his waist was just too bizarre.


    ¡°That¡¯s called cute contrast!¡± Qiao Xiaomai couldn¡¯t resist but bite him again.


    ¡°Alright, alright, cute contrast.¡± Holding his sweetheart in his arms, Tong Sang¡¯s lips stretched upwards in a grin, as he gently patted her back, asking, ¡°Should we go back to sleep?¡±


    It had been an eventful day, and it waste, they must be mentally drained.<div>


    ¡°Fine.¡± Xiaomai agreed, her arms tightly wrapped around his neck.


    She missed being held by Tong Sang as she fell asleep.


    They walked into the room like this, fell onto the bed, and Qiao Xiaomai wasn¡¯t as reserved as thest time. Sheid on top of Tong Sang, treating him like a nket.


    Coupled with the fact that Tong Sang¡¯s shoulders were wider and his body was longer than hers, it was a perfect fit.


    Although, Tong Sang was too skinny, he had no extra meat on his body, which made lying on him ufortable.


    With one hand on her back and the other caressing her hair, Tong Sang softly said, ¡°Let¡¯s sleep.¡±


    Last time he had to sleep stiffly all night, tonight he nned on sleeping too.


    Sleeping with his sweetheart in his arms!


    Regardless of reputation and family¡¯s uproar, he let go of all his worries for a moment.


    The girl lying on top of him now represented his entire world!


    Qiao Xiaomai also thought the same, she wanted all nuisances to disappear, staying close to Tong Sang was most important!


    Both of them, each other¡¯s world in their arms, fell asleep quickly. Three hourster, daybreak was about to dawn.


    Tong Sang regretfully woke up from his sweet dream. By this time, he was hugging Qiao Xiaomai, having shifted to a sideways position.


    With reluctance, he let go of Qiao Xiaomai, he gently sprung off the bed and before leaving, he lightly kissed her forehead.


    He didn¡¯t wake up Qiao Xiaomai, so when Qiao Changshun got up and found the door to the hall open, he assumed that Qiao Xiaomai had simply forgotten to close it during her nighttime excursion, and casually mentioned it at breakfast.


    Qiao Xiaomai blinked, and nodded lightly, ¡°Yes.¡±


    That minor detail casually brushed past them.


    The next morning, Miao Dali delivered another batch of fruit saplings and Qiao Xiaomai directed people to nt them.


    Everything was peaceful for the next three or four days.<div>


    As Qiao Xiaomai had predicted, the business in the Tong Family shop dropped a bit. But vinegar is amonmodity, if people didn¡¯t have time to go to town to buy it, they would still go to the Tong¡¯s.


    And as for the bean sprouts, there really were people who loved them.


    It cost one penny per catty, it was expensive, but since only the Tong¡¯s were selling them, people still bought them.


    Thus, the business in Tong¡¯s shop resumed, but it was a shadow of what it was on the first day.<div>


    That day, Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s menstrual cycle ended, and she regained all her energy. After breakfast, she was nning to apany Qiao Changshun to check on the manor.


    As she opened the courtyard gate, someone blocked her way.


    Sun Family¡¯s figure, wrapped entirely in white silk,y on a donkey cart, with resentment shining in her small eyes.


    Sun Junyan stood by her side,zily waving a folding fan in his hand.@@novelbin@@


    Seeing Qiao Xiaomaie out, he closed the fan in his hand and said, ¡°Do you want to resolve this issue publically or privately?¡±

 Chapter 528: 528: Waiting for the Summon of the Yamen Servant!

    Chapter 528: Waiting for the Summon of the Yamen Servant!


    Sun Junyan asked quite straightforwardly, Qiao Xiaomai nced at Mrs. Sun, who was wrapped like a mummy, and said, ¡°How do you want to settle this privately?¡±


    ¡°Compensation with silver, and apologize by kowtowing.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai raised an eyebrow, ¡°How much silver?¡±


    ¡°Ten thousand taels.¡± Sun Junyan waggled five fingers.@@novelbin@@


    Qiao Xiaomai burst into a coldughter, ¡°Mrs. Sun¡¯s life isn¡¯t even worth twenty taels.¡±


    Sun Junyan alsoughed, and it was an icy one, ¡°There was an important document from the military camp in the wooden house you burned.¡±


    ¡°What document?¡±


    ¡°Military secret, noment.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai sneered, ¡°Do you think if you say it¡¯s there, it¡¯s there?¡±


    ¡°Well, we can argue this in court. Hua Xiaofeng intentionally injured someone, which means at least ten years in jail. You intentionallymitted arson, and have also burned important military documents. Not only do you have to paypensation, but you also have to go to jail.¡±<div>


    Upon hearing Sun Junyan¡¯s words, Qiao Xiaomai understood.


    Even if there weren¡¯t any so-called documents, Cen Hong and Sun Junyan could have made up one out of thin air by now.


    As for how ordinary civilians are punished for destroying important military documents, the Daqi Laws do not have a specification.


    Laws aren¡¯tprehensive even in theter generations, let alone here, where the Daqi Laws have many loopholes.


    With this thought, she said, ¡°Then let¡¯s go by thew.¡±


    Ten thousand taels that would be roughly the same amount as all her possessions put together, Sun Junyan was trying to make her bankrupt.


    Let¡¯s go to court then!


    Sun Junyan nodded, then turned to look at Qiao Changshun, ¡°Second brother, even if our kinship has ended, you are still a piece of meat fallen from our mother. I heard from her that she loved you dearly when you were young. Now that she¡¯s beaten like this by your daughter Qiao Xiaomai, don¡¯t you have anything to say?¡±


    Qiao Changshun was already half-dazed. In his vague memory, Mrs. Sun did treat him well when he was a few years old.


    Then he didn¡¯t know why, but Mrs. Sun started to dislike him.


    All these years, Mrs. Sun always had a grim face when facing him. He had never even imagined her in such a miserable state.


    Qiao Xiaomai gave him a nce and sneered, ¡°Sun Junyan, this was done by Hua Xiaofeng, and I didn¡¯t touch Mrs. Sun.¡±


    ¡°Hua Xiaofeng was avenging my mother, she was right to hit Mrs. Sun. Even if it means going to jail, if given the chance, we would still do it.¡±


    ¡°Fine, you¡¯re eloquent, just wait for the yamen runners to summon you.¡± Sun Junyan said and got on the donkey cart.


    But before leaving, he turned to Qiao Changshun, ¡°Second brother, our mother indeed made many mistakes in the past, but everything she did, she did for me. If you want to hold a grudge, hold it against me, not her. Our father¡¯s health isn¡¯t good, she raised the few of us on her own, it wasn¡¯t easy.¡±


    ¡°Now that your life is better, do you still hold grudges against her for the past?¡±


    His words sounded reasonable, but they were like a needle piercing Qiao Changshun¡¯s heart. He quivered his lips, wanting to say something, but Qiao Xiaomai snorted, ¡°A dog that now knows how to talk.¡±


    ¡°But, can your words cure my father¡¯s crippled leg?¡±


    ¡°Can your words bring my mother back? Can your words return the things you plundered from my family? Can your words erase all the past times my mother was beaten?¡±<div>


    ¡°Now that my family is better, you¡¯vee to talk nicely. If my family were still in the same situation as before, I bet you would keep draining us dry.¡±


    Having said that, Qiao Xiaomai turned to Qiao Changshun again.


    Honestly, she was a bit annoyed.


    She had made it clear before, everything depended on Qiao Changshun¡¯s reaction. Now that Sun Junyan yed the emotional card, she blurted out like before.<div>


    She should have waited to see Qiao Changshun¡¯s reaction!

 Chapter 529: 529 Yang Ye is here

    Chapter 529 Yang Ye is here


    Listening to this, Qiao Changshun, who was originally a bit shaken, felt as if a calming anchor was thrust into his wavering heart. He gritted his teeth and said, ¡°Yes, Xiaomai is right, you who sever our rtionship, stop talking!¡±


    Ah, being illiterate is really disadvantageous!


    Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s words should be written on his hand, and read every day!


    Upon hearing this, Sun Junyan¡¯s expression remained unchanged, he nodded, ¡°Changsun, if you wish to harbor resentment, resent me.¡±


    Leaving only these words, he led his donkey cart away, making a detour around to the town.


    All this while, the Sun family didn¡¯t utter a word.


    Watching the mother and son leave, Qiao Changshun could no longer hide the worry on his face, ¡°Xiaomai, what should we do?¡±


    Ten thousand taels, and also some military camp document, this really frightened him!


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯ll go ask Dean Gu.¡± Qiao Xiaomai instructed Qiao Changshun to get off the cart, and she walked to town herself.


    Once she reached the town, she did not tarry and headed straight for Bailu Academy.<div>


    The gatekeeper let her in without hindrance, and she headed into the living quarters.


    Once she entered the quarters, she heard a loud, raucous noise before she even arrived at Dean Gu¡¯s courtyard.


    She was puzzled, for the living quarters had always been quiet, and such disorder was quite rare.


    As she followed the noise, she stopped in her tracks.


    Three carriages stood at the crossroads, surrounded by the schrs of Bailu Academy, and on the carriages were green-patterned watermelons.


    Yang Ye stood not far off, shaking his fan with a jovial smile on his face. Dean Gu stood with him, both of them talking pleasantly.


    ¡°Oh, Miss Qiao~!¡± Before Qiao Xiaomai could say anything, Yang Ye spotted her first. His handsome face broke into an even wider smile, and the pitch of his voice changed noticeably as he called out her name with evident delight.


    ¡°Your Highness.¡± Qiao Xiaomai came over and bowed in respect.


    ¡°Oh,e on up,¡± Yang Ye waved his hand, ¡°howe you¡¯re here?¡±


    Before waiting for Qiao Xiaomai to answer, he pointed to the watermelons on the carriage, ¡°I¡¯m here to deliver the watermelons. They¡¯re quite unique and fresh, just brought in from the west several years ago, and they¡¯re incredibly sweet.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai, ¡°¡­¡±@@novelbin@@


    Did he, a prince, need to personally deliver a watermelon?


    Seeing Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s speechlessness, Yang Yeughed, ¡°Just taking a break from the sweltering heat in Capital City, I prefer ces with mountains and water.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomaiughed in response, ¡°Then Bailu Town is indeed a great ce for a summer retreat.¡±


    ¡°Indeed, everything is lush green and filled with vibrant colors.¡± Yang Ye¡¯s eyes crinkled in delight, ¡°You¡¯re here just in time, take some watermelons with you when you leave.¡±


    ¡°Thank you, Your Highness.¡±


    ¡°Oh, no need to be polite. By the way, what are you doing here? Is something wrong?¡± Yang Ye enquired.


    ¡°Uh¡­ a serious matter.¡± Qiao Xiaomai hesitated.


    ¡°What¡¯s the matter? Come on, let¡¯s go inside to talk.¡± Yang Ye pointed to the watermelon, ¡°In passing, have a taste of this watermelon, you haven¡¯t tried them before, right? We don¡¯t have these in Bailu Town.¡±<div>


    Qiao Xiaomai smiled, ¡°Alright.¡±


    Having Yang Ye involved was somewhat better than Dean Gu.


    This case would probably favor them more.


    Once they got inside and sat down, the watermelon was cut into small pieces and served. Qiao Xiaomai picked at them delicately with a toothpick.<div>


    As she ate, she told him why she hade.


    Yang Ye too savored the fruit, carefully collecting the seeds on a te ¨C they were to be nted in the future.


    After listening to Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s ount, he spoke up, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯ll handle it.¡±

 Chapter 530: 530: Dont Be Afraid, Its Not Your Fault

    Chapter 530: Don¡¯t Be Afraid, It¡¯s Not Your Fault


    Yang Ye spoke confidently, but Qiao Xiaomai tilted her head slightly, ¡°But this involves the military¡­¡±


    Yang Ye was just a leisurely prince without any real power.


    ¡°No problem. I am not just a leisurely prince anymore, I have been assigned a duty,¡± said Yang Ye.


    A look of surprise appeared on Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s face, ¡°Duty?¡±


    ording to Tong Sang, Yang Ye had been living a life of idleness to avoid suspicion and to reassure the crown prince.


    However, Emperor Yongan would asionally assign tasks to him. After the tasks werepleted, he would return to his idle state.


    ¡°Yes, my father noticed there were too many loopholes in ¡®Daqi Law¡¯, so he ordered me to deliberate and revise ¡®Daqi Law¡¯ together with some schrs. Look at me now, delivering melons and seeking advice from Master Gu,¡± Yang Ye nodded towards Principal Gu.


    Principal Gu stroked his beard andmented, ¡°His Majesty¡¯s move ismendable.¡±


    Yang Yeughed, ¡°Yes, so don¡¯t worry about the matter. There is no provision in the ¡®Daqi Law¡¯ regting civilians for losing or damaging military secrets. If there¡¯s no such provision, there would be no basis for punishment. The sentence will be entirely dependent on discourse.¡±


    ¡°As far as I know, Sun Junyan is merely serving under Cen Hong, without holding any office, right?¡±<div>


    Apart from the Vige Chief, who is elected by the vigers, all other officials in Daqi were appointed by the Emperor.


    Of course, the specific operations were managed by the Ministry of Personnel. The lower-level local officials were all nominated by the Ministry of Personnel, presented to Emperor Yongan for review, and only after his approval could they take office.


    Cen Hong, who was an inferior official by himself, definitely didn¡¯t have the right to appoint Sun Junyan.


    Moreover, Sun Junyan was just a schr. He didn¡¯t even qualify to be an official.


    So, Sun Junyan was nothing more than an ordinary citizen who seemed a little higher up because he was clinging to Cen Hong.


    But at the end of the day, he was still a civilian.


    Cen Hong allowed a civilian to view ssified military documents and even allowed the civilian to take these files home.


    Now, these documents have been damaged, and the ones who should really be held ountable for this are Cen Hong and Sun Junyan.


    Cen Hong leaked military secrets.


    Sun Junyan was negligent in their care.


    Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s mistake was unintentional, and the innocent shouldn¡¯t be punished, right?


    Hearing Yang Ye rify the intricate ins and outs of the situation, Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s eyes lit up.


    Indeed, it seemed Cen Hong and Sun Junyan should bear most of the responsibility.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, there¡¯s no need to be anxious about this. You, should focus on how to eat this watermelon,¡± Yang Ye said with a smile.


    Qiao Xiaomai also startedughing, ¡°Then, thank you so much, Your Highness.¡±


    ¡°Then you can repay me by cooking some more delicious food,¡± Yang Ye smiled even more broadly.


    Returning to the Capital City with the retired Emperor was like going back to where he grew up. After being away for half a year, he quite missed it.


    He wanted to see his parents, meet his friends, taste the delicacies of the Capital City, and then he began to miss Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s cooking.


    Luckily, the melons nted by Emperor Yongan were ripe, and he was supposed to deliver some to Principal Gu.<div>


    Because of the task he was performing, he decided to take on the task of delivering the melons.


    He had been traveling for several days, and only arrived at Bailu Town this morning.@@novelbin@@


    ¡°In fact, I have another favor to ask of Your Highness,¡± said Qiao Xiaomai.


    ¡°What is it?¡±<div>


    ¡°I want to ask Your Highness to help me inquire about someone.¡±


    ¡°Oh? Who? Your mother?¡±


    ¡°No, it¡¯s my grandfather¡¯s wife and children.¡± As for Qiao Qinghe¡¯s matter, it was most suitable to entrust Yang Ye to investigate.

 Chapter 531: 531: Why havent you two married yet?

    Chapter 531: Why haven¡¯t you two married yet?


    Having heard Qiao Xiaomai talk about the past events, Yang Ye took it on. ¡°No problem.¡±


    ¡°Thank you very much, Your Highness.¡± Qiao Xiaomai expressed sincerely.


    Although Yang Ye has given her lots of trouble, seeing as her home sits directly atop a treasure, meeting Yang Ye was just a matter of time.


    The precise details of all this can¡¯t be quantified, but for everything he has done, Yang Ye deserved her gratitude.


    ¡°It¡¯s a small matter.¡± Yang Ye waved his hand, seeing that he had finished the watermelon in his bowl, he wiped his hands with a kerchief and started to probe into her gossip, ¡°Speaking of which, why have you and Tong Sang not married yet?¡±


    ¡°Had I known you two weren¡¯t married, I would have taken you to Capital City with Grandpa Emperor.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai, ¡°¡­It¡¯s a long story.¡±


    ¡°No worries, we have plenty of time, take your time to tell.¡± Yang Ye showed interest, ready to listen.


    Qiao Xiaomai blinked, this involved the Tong Family¡¯s dirtyundry, it wouldn¡¯t be good to talk about it openly.


    ¡°Did that boy fall out of love with you?¡± Yang Ye guessed, seeing her hesitation.<div>


    ¡°No.¡± Qiao Xiaomai quickly shook her head.


    Yang Ye lightly chuckled, ¡°Then why not marry?¡±


    ¡°Because¡­ his family doesn¡¯t like me much.¡± Qiao Xiaomai pondered for a moment and answered honestly.


    ¡°Oh? Be more specific.¡± Yang Ye showed interest.


    Thus, the time before lunch passed while Qiao Xiaomai recounted her story.


    Yang Ye listened with great interest.


    He usually heard about the dirty dealings of the nobility, so hearing about such a grounded issue like the Tong Family bickering over a few coins was refreshing.


    ¡°If his family dislikes you that much, why not just not marry them, you¡¯ll only get more problems.¡±@@novelbin@@


    Qiao Xiaomai smiled without saying anything.


    Yang Ye clicked his tongue, ¡°Fool.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai still remained silent.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go, off to the kitchen to prepare lunch.¡± Yang Ye stood up.


    He had no good advice for this situation, dealing with a unreasonable mother-inw, just like Zhuang Luhe¡¯s predicament, with filial piety hanging over their heads, it¡¯s a tricky situation.


    So afterward, Qiao Xiaomai went to the kitchen to prepare lunch, and Yang Ye stood in the doorway, leaning against the door frame, chatting incessantly with her.


    In the heat of the day, he didn¡¯t mind the heat, standing there until Qiao Xiaomai had finished cooking lunch.


    After lunch, Yang Ye took the carriage, personally escorting Qiao Xiaomai home.


    They conversed about chili peppers, which he praised immensely.


    He had cooked chili oil and other dishes following Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s recipe, enjoying them so much that he wished he could bite off his own tongue.


    Unfortunately, it was very limited, after three or four meals, he had none left.<div>


    ¡°But luckily, I still have a bowl of chili oil.¡± Yang Ye sighed, ¡°Can you think of a way to remove the bitterness of the Cornelian Cherry?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m afraid I can¡¯t help with that.¡± Qiao Xiaomai shook her head.


    Yang Ye looked at the bowl of chili oil like it was a treasure, making her wish she could present him with the chili peppers from her space.


    But she couldn¡¯t, for she couldn¡¯t exin, and so she changed the subject, ¡°I¡¯ve tried first thing this morning, there¡¯s no way to remove it.¡±<div>


    Yang Ye let out a regretful sigh.


    As a food lover, after tasting the deliciousness of chili peppers, many dishes were¡­


    Hard to swallow!


    Engaging in idle chatter, the carriage quickly arrived in Anping Vige. Yang Ye specifically ordered the coachman to travel to the Tong family¡¯s new house.


    He had lived there for a while, and now the Tong Family had opened a shop there, he wanted to take a look.


    At this time, it was the Zhang Family who was in charge of the shop. Only three customers came in all morning, two bought vinegar and one bought three pieces of malt sugar, the ie was pitifully small.

 Chapter 532: 532: The Zhang Family Faces Reality

    Chapter 532: The Zhang Family Faces Reality


    The feeble Mrs. Zhang saw Yang Ye and Qiao Xiaomai get off the carriage together, instantly perking up and rushing over to pay respects.


    Yang Ye was distant and indifferent in his demeanor, ¡°This prince is just here to look around.¡±


    ¡°Please do, feel free to look around.¡± Mrs. Zhang responded with an obsequious smile on her face.


    There wasn¡¯t much to see. The courtyard looked the same. The room he used to live in was converted into a shop with a simpleyout that could be seen at a nce.


    After taking a look, Yang Ye turned around and left, he and Qiao Xiaomai got back into the carriage together.


    Mrs. Zhang watched this unfold, her heart a boiling cauldron of mixed feelings.


    Of course, annoyance and envy were predominant.


    She had always thought Qiao Xiaomai was acquainted with some nobleman from the academy. Now it seemed that Qiao Xiaomai had drawn the attention of Prince Wei.


    Looking at the pair standing together, though Qiao Xiaomai was a vige girl, her captivating foxy face surprisingly matched well with Yang Ye.


    Disturbed by Yang Ye¡¯s action, Mrs. Zhang felt upset. She lost interest in running her shop, locked it up and stormed home under the ring sun.<div>


    When she got home, Tong Sang was studying.@@novelbin@@


    Everyone else had gone to nt beans in the fields.


    Seeing Tong Sang studying with diligence, she stomped her foot, but kept her frustration to herself.


    But when Zhu Hongyun and others returned in the evening, she immediately pulled Zhu Hongyun aside for a private talk.


    She recounted Yang Ye¡¯s purposeless stroll, and asked, ¡°Hongyun, do you think if we propose a match with Qiao family now, Qiao Xiaomai will ept?¡±


    She had always thought their small family businesses, especially the bean sprouts, would bring in a considerable ie.


    Living conditions at home were bound to improve.


    But she never expected such a turn of events, which led to the downfall of their businesses.


    Making just a penny or two a day, what was the use of running this store?


    The goods were all about to spoil!


    With dashed hopes and despair following close on the heels of her initial aspiration, Mrs. Zhang had been incredibly stressed these past few days.


    Poked and prodded by Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s behavior today, the wavering in her heart finally saw clearly the reality.


    The fastest way to wealth and fortune for their family now was only one: marry Qiao Xiaomai.


    Wishing to live well as before, free from worry about food and clothes, this was the quickest way.


    Marry Qiao Xiaomai, have a well-to-do daughter-inw, and their family wouldn¡¯t get the scornful gazes of others.


    A sure bet for safety and peace.


    After hearing Mrs. Zhang, Zhu Hongyun hesitated before responding, ¡°I doubt it?¡±


    Given their prior attitude towards Qiao Xiaomai, it would be a miracle if she did ept. Now that she¡¯s associated with a prince, even an idiot would know which choice to make.


    ¡°Think of a solution. Qiao Xiaomai is our lifesaver now!¡± urged Mrs. Zhang.<div>


    ¡°What solution could there be?¡± Zhu Hongyun frowned, ¡°Apart from buying some gifts, and politely proposing, there are no other solutions.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai was about to soar high. Given their current conditions, this was the only way to stop her.


    ¡°Let Grandpa and Sang go when the timees. After all, they have helped her a lot.¡±


    ¡°What should we buy?¡± asked Mrs. Zhang.<div>


    ¡°We have to show her our sincerity.¡±


    At this, Mrs. Zhang immediately felt the pinch, ¡°She¡¯s hobnobbing with the prince, what good things hasn¡¯t she seen.¡±


    Even if they drained all their family savings, it wouldn¡¯t catch Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s eye.


    ¡°No pain, no gain, mother. Think about her dowry. We just have to buy it!¡±


    This was an investment, and Qiao Xiaomai would give them substantial returns.

 Chapter 533: 533: She doesnt want to live a hard life anymore

    Chapter 533: She doesn¡¯t want to live a hard life anymore


    Zhang Family gritted her teeth and agreed, ¡°Fine, I¡¯ll go ask Sang.¡±


    Last time, Tong Sang explicitly stated that he wouldn¡¯t marry Qiao Xiaomai. If she went there now, she was likely to face rejection again.


    Yes, what she got was still a rejection.


    ¡°You fool, don¡¯t you know how perfect a match Prince Wei and her were today? If you don¡¯t make a move now, she¡¯ll really fly high!¡± Zhang continuously poked Tong Sang¡¯s shoulder with her fingers, each poke exerting a lot of force.


    On hearing this, Tong Sang subconsciously frowned slightly.


    Do Yang Ye and Qiao Xiaomai make a perfect pair?


    Nonsense!


    Qiao Xiaomai and he are the perfect match!


    Seeing Tong Sang unmoved like a piece of wood, Zhang stomped her foot, turned around, and went to find Tong Tiehu.


    If she and Tong Tiehu agreed¡ªas per a parental decree and the words of a matchmaker¡ªeven if Tong Sang disagreed, he would have to ept.<div>


    After hearing Zhang¡¯s words, Tiehu¡¯s brows furrowed tight, ¡°I thought you all dislike Xiaomai?¡±


    ¡°You never spoke highly of her in the past, and you scowled whenever she came by, why is your attitude so different now?¡±


    ¡°Time changes everything. We thought she had ill intentions before, trying totch onto our family, but look at us now. In a radius of dozens of miles around, she is the only one worthy of Sang,¡± Zhang chuckled warmly.


    Tong Tiehu sneered, ¡°Have you forgotten how you went begging with that proud and pompous attitude of yours? She¡¯s not interested in marriage at all. She¡¯s merely tolerating your haughty behavior for my sake. Back then you treated her like a roadside weed, but now you know her worth and wish to propose marriage.¡±


    ¡°Do you think Xiaomai is a fool like Jiang¡¯s youngest son who can be easily deceived?¡±


    These words made Zhang¡¯s face turn beet red. At that time, she was sure that Qiao Xiaomai would be the daughter-inw of the Tong Family.


    If she was the daughter-inw, she could naturally adopt any attitude she liked.


    Looking at how Sun Family treated Zhuang L¨¹he, she thought her own attitude was quite good inparison.


    Who would have thought things would turn out like this!


    Thinking of her family¡¯s situation and the hardships they¡¯ve suffered, she gritted her teeth and continued to force out a smile, ¡°Dad, but Qiao Xiaomai is the most suitable and the best match for Sang. If we miss her, we won¡¯t find anyone else as good.¡±


    ¡°We¡¯ll discuss Sang¡¯s marriage after the rural examination. Once he bes a schr, naturally young women of good families will visit us.¡±


    ¡°But those women cannotpare to Qiao Xiaomai!¡±


    When ites to earning money, Qiao Xiaomai is truly unique among all the women in Daqi.


    Right now, she isn¡¯t thinking about anything else, she just wants to return to the old days when they didn¡¯t need to work thend and could indulge in meat every meal.


    She doesn¡¯t want to live these hard days where they earn a couple of pennies a day running the store and toil in the fields to the point of exhaustion any more!


    ¡°If you have the nerve, you can say it yourself. I can¡¯t afford to lose face,¡± Tong Tiehu snorted.


    ¡°So, can I go buy things for the proposal?¡± Zhang asked delicately.


    ¡°Prepare yourself for the possibility that Xiaomai won¡¯t ept a single item,¡± Tong Tiehu reminded her.


    On hearing this, Zhang gritted her teeth.<div>


    You can¡¯t catch a wolf if you¡¯re unwilling to scare off your children. She was wrong before, so she¡¯ll face the embarrassment now.@@novelbin@@


    As long as they can marry Qiao Xiaomai, anything else can be dealt withter!


    After making up her mind, Zhang Family asked again, ¡°Dad, since it¡¯s Sang¡¯s wedding¡­why don¡¯t you¡­¡±


    Tong Tiehu threw Zhang a sideways nce, his expression stern, ¡°I don¡¯t have any silver.¡±<div>


    ¡°Did Sang give you any money from his hunting these past few days?¡± Zhang asked.

 Chapter 534: 534: Asking Tongsanlang for Money

    Chapter 534: Asking Tongsang for Money


    Tong Tiehu scoffed, ¡°I didn¡¯t give any.¡±


    He used to be quite casual about money issues, so much so that he didn¡¯t realize the seriousness of the issue when it came to pricing bean sprouts.


    Now he acutely realized how important it was to have silver in hand.


    Let alone, Tong Sang didn¡¯t give him much either. Every time they went hunting, they could save up a few taels, which would only amount to twenty or thirty taels of silver.


    This silver was basically of no use in purchasing betrothal gifts.


    Seeing this, Madam Zhang pursed her lips and turned to leave.


    She went to ask Tong Sang again.


    Tong Sang had private savings, which was intended for his studies. However, if he were to marry Qiao Xiaomai, they would no longer have to worry about money in the future.


    ¡°No, I won¡¯t marry, and she wouldn¡¯t agree to it either. Mother, don¡¯t waste your money,¡± Tong Sang firmly rejected with a cold expression.


    ¡°You fool, if not for you, think about the family. Look at the state of our home now. Your father and I are working ourselves to death just to earn a few copper coins. We¡¯ve raised you all these years, is this how you repay us?¡±<div>


    Madam Zhang also retorted coldly.


    ¡°I will study hard and try the Imperial Examination. After I pass the examination, you can just enjoy the good life,¡± Tong Sang said firmly.


    ¡°And how long would we have to wait for that? Look how hard your father and I have been working these days. We might die from exhaustion before you pass the Imperial Examination. We¡¯ve raised you till this age, it¡¯s time for you to repay us!¡±


    ¡°Hand over the silver!¡± Madam Zhangmanded sternly, ¡°And, during all those years you¡¯ve been guarding the treasure, didn¡¯t you save up a piece or two?!¡±


    Tong Sang¡¯s lips tightened into a thin line, ¡°Miss Qiao won¡¯t agree to your n.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s her business. You, give me the silver!¡±


    Tong Sang hesitated for a moment, then took a book off the shelf, opened it, and took out a silver note.


    ¡°The silver I¡¯ve saved since childhood, is only this much. As for the treasures, I haven¡¯t touched a single one.¡±


    This one hundred taels were his savings from hunting extra preys, just in case.


    He didn¡¯t expect it woulde in handy now.


    Madam Zhang looked at the silver note and snorted, then poked Tong Sang¡¯s shoulder, ¡°You fool, when you finally marry Qiao Xiaomai, you¡¯ll realize that I¡¯m doing this for your own good.¡±


    ¡°Just study hard. If you really pass the examination and be a schr, it would be good for our family.¡±


    Leaving these words behind, Madam Zhang walked away with the silver note.


    Tong Sang watched her figure, his eyes downcast.


    Soon it was deep night. All the households in the vige had turned off theirmps. Under the moonlight, the small mountain vige was quiet.


    Tong Sang quietly came out of the house and used his light body technique to appear at Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s house.


    Qiao Xiaomai was sitting in the courtyard waiting for him.


    There was still half a watermelon on the small table under the willow tree.


    Seeing him, Qiao Xiaomai waved her hand immediately, ¡°Come and sit. Try this watermelon, it¡¯s from Yang Ye.¡±<div>


    Though she had watermelons in her space dimension, she had shared it with Tong Sang before.


    But locally grown watermelon was a rare item. Tong Sang had only tried it once. When Yang Ye brought some, she couldn¡¯t wait to let him taste it again.


    Tong Sang sat down and saw a spoon on the watermelon. He picked up the spoon and scooped out the center.


    When he tasted it, it was sweet, with a hint of undetectable sourness.@@novelbin@@<div>


    It couldn¡¯tpare to the watermelons from Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s space, which had been improved countless times.


    He nodded, ¡°It¡¯s not bad.¡±


    ¡°Keep the seeds. Mix them with the ones in my space and nt them in the field. We can eat sweet big watermelons next year!¡± said Qiao Xiaomai.

 Chapter 535: 535: You are Mine

    Chapter 535: You are Mine


    ¡°Okay.¡± Tong Sang spat out the melon seeds in his mouth onto the table, ¡°Did His Highnesse over?¡± He asked nonchntly.


    ¡°Mhm, he came to deliver some melons.¡± Qiao Xiaomai casually responded, recounting the day¡¯s events. By the time she finished, the half melon in Tong Sang¡¯s hand had already been eaten.


    He began, ¡°His Highness¡¯s visit was very timely.¡±


    ¡°Indeed, I was actually nning to find Principal Gu.¡± Qiao Xiaomai nodded and took out a handkerchief to wipe his hands.


    There wasn¡¯t much soft tissue left in the room, it had to be saved for toilet use.


    ¨r(¨s¨Œ¨t)¨q


    Tong Sang took the handkerchief, casually wiped his hands, and then clenched the handkerchief, ¡°Um¡­ my mother said, the sight of you beside His Highness is a good match.¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡±


    Upon hearing this, Qiao Xiaomai couldn¡¯t help but widen her eyes. In her moist eyes, surprise was evident. Zhang Shi praised her and Yang Ye as a good match?@@novelbin@@


    So, the sun is going to rise from the west!<div>


    Tong Sang hummed in response. He stuffed the handkerchief into his chest and moved his chair closer to Qiao Xiaomai. He stretched out his arms to hug her, ¡°You are mine.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s peach blossom eyes widens even more, she extends her arms and also hugged Tong Sang, asking, ¡°What¡¯s up?¡±


    ¡°You are mine.¡± Tong Sang buried his face in her neck, imitating her previous action, he gave her a light bite on her fair neck.


    Qiao Xiaomai patted his back, lowering her voice, ¡°Howe, are you jealous?¡±


    ¡°Mhm.¡± Tong Sang muffled a reply and gave another light bite.


    After biting, he felt pain and couldn¡¯t resist extending his tongue to lick the formed mark.


    This lick gave Qiao Xiaomai goosebumps all over her body. She shivered slightly, and hugged Tong Sang tighter,ughing, ¡°Yes, I am yours.¡±


    ¡°Why me?¡± Tong Sang asked, his voice still muffled.


    ¡°Because you¡¯re like a burning fire. I love your fervent enthusiasm, which would burn for me, or die for me, and of course, your simplicity.¡± Qiao Xiaomai patted his back again, ¡°Yang Ye, who passed through a myriad of flowers, is not to my taste.¡±


    ¡°He has too many swooning beauties around him, with too much perfumed powder. I love your boyish charm, clean and pure, like a por tree, tall and straight, hugging you gives me a sense of security.¡±


    Boyish charm?


    Tong Sang tightened his lips, okay, he once thought of acting domineering and untamed in front of Qiao Xiaomai.


    But he was rejected by Qiao Xiaomai.


    When he backed off, he unintentionally touched Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s heartstrings.


    Looking back now, the situation was really awkward.


    ¡°Silly boy, don¡¯t overthink. I¡¯ve seen the world. Even the throne in front of me wouldn¡¯t make me bat an eye, I just want to live a peaceful life with you.¡±


    ¡°Mhm.¡± Tong Sang gave another response, ¡°My mother, she asked me for silver tonight. She will be buying something to propose in the next few days. You¡­ grit your teeth and don¡¯t back off. If she is really sincere, make your condition: split up.¡±


    Zhang Shi¡¯s actions tonight have genuinely saddened him.


    From childhood to adulthood, he has always been filial and obedient. As long as orders came down from Tong Tiehu, Qian Family, Tong Xingda, Zhang Family, he followed them.<div>


    He didn¡¯t expect to be called unfilial by Zhang Shi now.


    Also, Zhang Shi¡¯s fierce look tonight made his heart tighten.


    If Zhang Shi ever scolds Qiao Xiaomai in this tone and expression¡­


    ¡°My mother, she just doesn¡¯t like to work. As long as she can escape her current hard life, she¡¯ll agree.¡±<div>


    ¡°We must split up, we have to.¡±

 Chapter 536: 536: Shopping and Proposing

    Chapter 536: Shopping and Proposing


    ¡°Tell me about what happened tonight,¡± Qiao Xiaomai said after hearing Tong Sang¡¯s words.


    Tong Sang held her tightly and briefly told her about the night¡¯s events.


    After listening, Xiaomai couldn¡¯t help but pat Tong Sang¡¯s back again.


    Alright, she understood.


    Tong Sang was heartbroken tonight.


    Thinking of the Zhang Family¡¯s behaviour when asking for food that day, she again patted Tong Sang¡¯s back.


    Tong Sang, such a good son, yet the Zhang Family really had the heart to chastise him.


    ¡°I understand now, you want to separate from the family.¡±


    Tong Sang was worried about her, he didn¡¯t want her to bear the Zhang Family¡¯s wrath, and she felt the same way.


    She also didn¡¯t want Tong Sang to bear the Zhang Family¡¯s wrath.<div>


    Tong Sang was heartbroken tonight, naturally, Qiao Xiaomai wanted to give him hugs and kisses. As for lifting him up, she passed on that, and instead led him into the house.


    Once on the bed, she had Tong Sang lie on his side. Sheid behind him, intending to emte his previous actions by holding him in her arms.


    After trying a few times, she gave up reluctantly.


    Tong Sang¡¯s shoulders were too wide, and his torso too thick, she could only spread her arms and legs to wrap around him.


    Tong Sang couldn¡¯t help but smile when he saw her trying various positions behind him. Suddenly, he turned around, stretched out his arms, and hugged Qiao Xiaomai tightly, ¡°let me hold you instead.¡±


    Her body abruptly fell into Tong Sang¡¯s familiar embrace. Qiao Xiaomai uttered a sound, and wrapped around him like a vine, d, this position is better.¡±


    Tong Sang caressed her long hair, softly chuckling, ¡°go to sleep.¡±


    Although his mother did not understand him, he only felt a swell in his chest with Qiao Xiaomai there.


    It felt so good.


    Having her was so good.


    The night passed quickly, and in the early morning, Tong Sang sneaked back home.


    Not long after heid down on his own bed, the sound of the door opening rang through.


    The Zhang family was up.


    Yesterday, Zhang Family got a silver bill from Tong Sang, so today, she was going to town to buy engagement gifts.


    There were no fixed customs for engagements in this area, you could buy whatever you liked. Zhang family took out her own savings and went to town with Zhu Hongyun.


    Zhang Family thought that Qiao Xiaomai had a pretty face and wanted to buy her some jewelry.


    After checking out all the better-looking jewelry at their daughter¡¯s loft, Zhang family dismissed the idea.@@novelbin@@


    After nearly one hundred taels of silver was spent, the designs were no longer stunning. If they didn¡¯t suit Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s taste, it would be a waste.


    Zhu Hongyun suggested to her to negotiate with the shopkeeper. In case Qiao Xiaomai didn¡¯t want it, it could be returned.<div>


    Upon hearing this, Zhang family¡¯s eyes lit up. She spent half an hour haggling with the shopkeeper, eventually buying a gold rattle-drum for one hundred and fifty taels.


    If Qiao Xiaomai didn¡¯t want it, it could be returned, but the shop would charge five silver taels for depreciation.


    This result was already good. Remembering the saying ¡°no pain, no gain¡±, she and Zhu Hongyun also bought a set of rouge and face powder, then left the daughter¡¯s loft.


    With more than half of the two hundred taels of silver spent, Zhang Family purchased a roll of silk cloth and spent the remaining silver.<div>


    Carrying the rouge, face powder, silk cloth, and gold rattle-drum, Zhang Family and Zhu Hongyun knocked on Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s door.


    As forceful as she wasst time, this time she needed to be just as amiable.


    Qiao Xiaomai waited at home specially, a trait she never showed before.


    Opening the door and seeing Zhang Family and Zhu Hongyun standing outside, she smiled, ¡°Auntie, what brings you here?¡±


    ¡°Just dropping by,¡± Zhang family said with a very friendly and gentle smile.

 Chapter 569: 569: Will You or Wont You...

    Chapter 569: Chapter 569: Will You or Won¡¯t You¡­


    Now satisfied, Qiao Xiaomai released his waist and looked up at him with a teasing smile, ¡°How about we take a lovebird¡¯s bath, boy?¡±


    His breath hitched, ¡°Are you sure?¡±


    ¡°Absolutely! We are a married couple after all, there¡¯s no reason for us to be shy!¡±


    No reason to be shy!


    Tong Sang took a deep breath, trying to cool down his boiling blood. ¡°Sure, let¡¯s not be shy.¡±


    He began to unbutton his jacket as he said this.


    Qiao Xiaomai chuckled and began to unbutton her own clothes.


    Despite not being entirely experienced, she was modern and worldly. She wouldn¡¯t lose to Tong Sang.


    She quickly stripped off her clothes and stood unabashed in front of him.


    Honestly, her body was not fully developed. Her chest was small, her back was t, her figure was neither buxom nor curvy. The only advantage was its whiteness.<div>


    The people in ancient times were wrapped tightly in clothes, her body had never been sunbathed, so it was as white as snow.


    On top of that, ever since the Spiritual Spring appeared, she drank a lot of the spring water daily. Over the months, her skin had be quite delicate.


    It was white and soft, looking like mutton-fat jade under the dim candlelight. Even if her body was not fully developed, it was enough to catch Tong Sang¡¯s attention.


    Having never experienced such a sizzling situation before, Tong Sang was trying to distract himself by reciting things from books otherwise he wouldn¡¯t have been able to control his boiling blood.


    If he got a nosebleed at this time, it would be so embarrassing.


    Qiao Xiaomai looked up and saw his stiff movements, and chuckled before she got into the bath herself.


    She was sweaty and did not feelfortable hugging him at that moment.


    Once her body was in the warm water, she grabbed some rose petals from her space and threw them into the bath, then took out the shower gel. Seeing Tong Sang still struggling with his clothes, she couldn¡¯t help butugh again, ¡°Hey, do you think you might¡­¡±


    Before she could finish her sentence, her peach blossom eyes glistened like gemstones.


    Tong Sang, with his head spinning, asked, ¡°What?¡±


    His voice was extremely hoarse and his breathing was slightly erratic.


    ¡°Premature ejaction? I heard virgin boys tend to do that.¡± Qiao Xiaomai, sshing some water, casually remarked with a yful smile.


    Tong Sang ¡°¡­¡±


    He froze for a moment, then his lips formed a straight line. He swiftly peeled off his remaining clothes. ¡°Ever since my feelings for you became clear, I¡¯ve been very curious.¡±


    ¡°Curious about what?¡± Xiaomai asked.


    ¡°Curious about your body. I adore you, I¡¯m curious about everything about you, and I want to possess everything about you.¡± Tong Sang freed himself of thest hindrance and stepped into the bath tub, his tall body making the roomy tub suddenly feel crowded.


    He looked directly at Qiao Xiaomai. ¡°I¡¯ve been curious for so long, and tonight, I finally get to explore.¡±


    His gaze was straightforward and heated,pletely unmasked.


    Under such a gaze, Qiao Xiaomai suddenly felt a heat spread through her body.<div>


    She felt so hot that it was a bit unbearable. She couldn¡¯t help but shrink back a bit, pressing herself against the tub wall.


    Tong Sang raised his hand and touched her shoulder. His hand was as hot as iron. He asked, ¡°May I?¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s reflexive movement of evasion reminded him of her previous experiences. At this point, he had to ask permission.


    <div>

 Chapter 538: 538: Xiaomais Fierce Aggression

    Chapter 538: Xiaomai¡¯s Fierce Aggression


    The mother-inw and daughter-inw pair didn¡¯t immediately connect what was said to themselves, as self-awareness is not a virtue that everyone possesses.


    The two of them stared at each other for a while, utterly confused.


    Seeing that Zhu Hongyun had already finished eating a peach, Zhang Family gritted her teeth and directly asked, ¡°Xiaomai, what do you mean by ¡®consider other factors¡¯?¡±


    ¡°Auntie,¡± Qiao Xiaomai replied straightforwardly as Zhang Family asked directly, ¡°Last time, you behaved as if I already had a rtionship with Brother Tong number three when there was nothing between us yet. I¡¯m not obliged to him.¡±


    ¡°Although I¡¯m getting older, I¡¯m not in a hurry. My family¡¯s reputation is well-known, and there are plenty of suitors at my door.¡±


    Zhang Family ¡°¡­¡±


    Zhu Hongyun ¡°¡­¡±


    Zhang Family remembered what Tong Tiehu had said the night before looking at Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s smiling face. Unlike Jiang Zhuangzhuang, Qiao Xiaomai wasn¡¯t foolish; on the contrary, she was quite smart.


    Qiao Xiaomai knew very well how Zhang Family had treated her before.


    Not only did she remember it, but now she was throwing it right back in Zhang Family¡¯s face.<div>


    When Qiao Xiaomai saw a mix of white and green y across Zhang Family¡¯s face, sheughed and continued, ¡°Frankly speaking, in all the viges within dozens of miles, only Brother Tong can match me.¡±


    ¡°But I¡¯m not obliged to Brother Tong. As you said, Auntie, I know the nobles at the Academy and have rtionships with two princes. Why should I rely on Brother Tong? I have my own prospects.¡±


    ¡°So, Auntie, do save your words. I won¡¯t marry Brother Tong. It¡¯s time for the two of you to leave.¡±


    As Qiao Xiaomai spoke, she rose and gestured towards the door, her intent to bid her guests goodbye was clear.


    Upon hearing Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s words, Zhang Family¡¯s face immediately turned green. Qiao Xiaomai was clearly mocking her.


    She had previously used Qiao Xiaomai of clinging to the nobles at the Academy in front of Qiao Changsun. Now, her words wereing back to bite her.


    Thinking of all the hardships she had suffered these past days, Zhang Family gritted her teeth, forcing a strange smile onto her livid face. ¡°Xiaomai, Auntie made a mistake before and misunderstood you. Please don¡¯t take it to heart.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai didn¡¯t respond, but crossed her arms and looked down at her from above. The smile had disappeared from her small face.


    Seeing this, Zhang Family tried to make her smile seem more genuine and natural. ¡°Xiaomai, since I came here to propose today, it means that I believe in your innocence. Forget about the things I said before. Please, don¡¯t take it to heart.¡±


    Upon hearing these words, Qiao Xiaomaiughed. ¡°Auntie, do you know I hold grudges? Just a few days ago, I burned down Sun Family¡¯s shack and beat Sun Family half to death. Now, Sun Junyan is preparing to report me to the County Government Office.¡±


    Zhang Family ¡°¡­¡±


    The smile on her face froze.


    What?


    She burned down Sun Family¡¯s shack and beat Sun Family half to death?@@novelbin@@


    Which family would dare to ept such a fierce daughter-inw?


    ¡°However, although Auntie had some misunderstandings about me, for the sake of Grandpa Tong, I won¡¯t hold a grudge about the past. In the future, our two families will continue to maintain a harmonious rtionship. If there is nothing else, please leave, Auntie.¡±


    Again, Qiao Xiaomai made it clear that they were no longer wee.


    Her words were also a warning to Zhang Family. If they truly wanted to propose marriage, they needed to be prepared for her to cause trouble.


    She was not one to be bullied. Even under the weight of filial piety, she would not tolerate any disrespect.<div>

 Chapter 571: 571

    Chapter 571: Chapter 571


    Qiao Xiaomai was a neat freak, so he decided to heat more water for her to bathe.


    Besides, he had to take advantage of the night to wash the bed sheets, so no one would see and feel embarrassed the next day.


    He headed into the kitchen to heat up a pot of water, then bathed Xiaomai and washed the sheets. After all these chores, Tong Sang eventually crawled back into bed and fell into a deep sleep with Xiaomai in his arms.


    The body that had just bathed smelled good.


    Consumed by the delightful scent, he quickly drifted off to dreand.


    Now, let¡¯s talk about Tong Eng and Zhu Hongyun, the couple.


    Zhu Hongyun was envious of the pair of Longevity Locks that Xiaomai had gifted earlier in the day.


    Tong Eng didn¡¯t practice martial arts.


    ¡°Go, boil some hot water. I want to bathe,¡± Zhu Hongyun kicked him.


    ¡°Sote, let¡¯s wait till tomorrow,¡± Tong Eng murmured, not wanting to move.<div>


    ¡°Look at howzy you are! Just now Sang was boiling water and washing things. But here you are, not even willing to heat up the water!¡± Zhu Hongyun scolded him sternly, twisting his arm forcefully.


    Tong Eng cried out in pain.


    Left with no choice, he reluctantly got out of bed.


    Upon reaching the kitchen, heughed to himself and hurriedly returned to the room, ¡°The firewood is gone. Sang just used thest of it. There¡¯s no way to heat it up.¡±


    ¡°What? The firewood we gathered today is gone?!¡± Zhu Hongyun couldn¡¯t help but yell.


    ¡°It¡¯s gone. We only gathered a small bundle each, and we used it for cooking, making medicine, and heating water. It¡¯s normal that it¡¯s all gone,¡± Tong Eng exined as he kicked off his shoes and got back into bed. He took off his clothes and pulled a bedsheet over himself.


    The most crucial thing after making love was to cuddle and sleep, not heat up water.


    Seeing him lying back down nonchntly, Zhu Hongyun felt a tightness in her chest.


    Why was it that Tong Sang was so diligent, but this one in front of her was aszy as a pig?


    She loved cleanliness too!


    Despite the frustration gnawing at her, Zhu Hongyun finally fell asleep. As dawn began to break, Tong Sang was the first to rise. He gathered the semi-dried bed sheets from the courtyard and then dashed up the mountain.


    He collected some firewood and even managed to catch a wild chicken before rushing back home.


    By the time he arrived home, everyone was up. He then moved to the kitchen to prepare breakfast.


    Without any Steamed Buns, and not knowing how to make pancakes, he simply decided to make noodles.


    However, his cooking skills were far inferior to Xiaomai, especially without the Spiritual Spring water. Seeing everyone¡¯s doubtful expressions, he casually said, ¡°She¡¯s still asleep. Let¡¯s just make do with this.¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s truly lucky,¡± Zhu Hongyun murmured with envy. Even though she was nearing exhaustion on her wedding night, she still got up early the next day to prepare breakfast.


    ncing at Tong Sang¡¯s room, she couldn¡¯t resist saying, ¡°Sang, if you¡¯re not too busy, why don¡¯t you take care of the firewood from now on? Since you two love cleanliness, you probably need to take three baths a day.¡±


    Hearing her words, Tong Sang responded, ¡°I¡¯ll collect it when I can.¡±


    ¡°What do you mean by collect it when you can? The two of you use the most firewood. It should be your responsibility to gather it,¡± said Zhu Hongyun.<div>


    ¡°Shut up! What¡¯s all this fuss about so early in the morning?¡± Tong Tiehu couldn¡¯t bear it any longer and lost his temper. ¡°You can¡¯t even gather firewood anymore?¡±


    ¡°I can, but it shouldn¡¯t always be me and Eng.¡±


    ¡°Okay, since all the farnd in the house was exchanged for the game Sang hunted, it¡¯s none of your business if we partition the house,¡± said Tong Tiehu.


    <div>

 Chapter 540: 540: Settled Publicly or Privately

    Chapter 540: Settled Publicly or Privately


    With these thoughts in mind, the next day, Zhang Family went to Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s house.


    Qiao Changshun was out in the fields, while Qiao Xiaomai and Qiao Dami were ying at home, listening to her assurances with a casual attitude.


    The adamant refusal from Qiao Xiaomai remained unchanged, insisting that although Tong Sang was a good person, she did not want to marry him, regardless of anything Zhang Family tried to persuade her with.


    Furthermore, while they were speaking, people from the County Government Office arrived. Sun Junyan had lodged aint against Qiao Xiaomai, and the bailiff hade to take her away.


    With a regretful face, Qiao Xiaomai looked at Zhang Family.


    What could Zhang Family say at this moment? All she could do was to take her cloth bundle and return home.


    As for the bailiff recall, she was rather rxed about it. With Yang Ye involved, would Qiao Xiaomai suffer any harm from Sun Junyan?


    Definitely not.


    At this time, what she should worry about was how to get Qiao Xiaomai to agree to the proposal. With a powerfulpetitor like Yang Ye, she should act as soon as possible!


    After some thoughts, Zhang Family went home to find Tong Tiehu.<div>


    Qiao Xiaomai held an opinion of her, so she had to ask Tong Tiehu to step in. Tong Tiehu had helped Qiao Xiaomai so many times before, and Qiao Xiaomai would at least treat him with a better attitude even if she didn¡¯t agree.


    Zhang Family went home to try to persuade Tong Tiehu while Qiao Xiaomai followed the bailiff to the County Town.@@novelbin@@


    On the way passing through Bailu Town, she met Yang Ye, who had been waiting there, and he took her to the County Government Office in his carriage.


    In the office, Cen Hong and Sun Junyan already knew about Yang Ye¡¯s arrival. They expected Yang Ye to stand up for Qiao Xiaomai and had prepared countermeasures. They insisted that Qiao Xiaomai had set fire to important documents and that Hua Xiaofeng had assaulted Sun Family maliciously. These two had to be punished byw.


    Yang Ye sat at the side and listened in the courtroom.


    After hearing Sun Junyan¡¯s usations, he asked directly before the county magistrate could speak, ¡°County Mayor Dai, does the ¡®Daqi Law¡¯ prescribe punishment formoners who destroy ssified military documents?¡±


    Knowing this case would not be easy, Mayor Dai had ced a copy of ¡®Daqi Law¡¯ close at hand. After hearing Yang Ye¡¯s question, he pretended to flip through the book, then shook his head, ¡°To answer your Highness, there are no regtions regarding this matter.¡±


    ¡°Perfectly, the emperor has asked me to revise the ¡®Daqi Law.¡¯ Once I finish revising the ¡®Daqi Law¡¯, we¡¯ll deal with it ording to thew.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Mayor Dai quickly responded, ¡°Your Highness speaks truly.¡±


    Hearing this, Cen Hong immediately became angry, ¡°Mayor Dai, that was military ssified information!¡±


    ¡°Cen Hong, there is no regtion about it in the ¡®Daqi Law¡¯, how do you expect Mayor Dai to judge? Aren¡¯t you deliberately making things difficult?¡± As Yang Ye spoke, he scoffed, ¡°Moreover, the main responsibility lies with you. You intentionally exposed military secrets to Sun Junyan amoner. This constitutes a breach of confidentiality, which ¡®Daqi Law¡¯ does dictate.¡±


    Upon hearing these words, Cen Hong was stunned, and then his face turned pale.


    From this perspective, it did seem so.


    Sun Junyan was only assisting him and did not hold any official title. This indeed constituted a leak of confidential information.


    Seeing the expression on Cen Hong¡¯s face, Yang Ye snorted, ¡°Sun Junyan was negligent in supervision, and he bears a significant responsibility in this matter. The mistakes made by both of you are more severe. Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s mistake was made unintentionally, she is not guilty if she did not know.¡±


    Yang Ye said, unfurling the fan in his hand and shaking it leisurely. His handsome face wore a smirk, ¡°Cen Hong, do you think this situation should be resolved publicly or privately?¡±


    Cen Hong ¡°¡­¡±


    He involuntarily clenched his fists and gnashed his teeth.


    <div>

 Chapter 541: 541: Making a Small Fortune

    Chapter 541: Making a Small Fortune


    ¡°Decide now, whether you want it public or private. My time is precious, I can¡¯t afford to waste it here,¡± Yang Ye abruptly dropped his smile and urged.


    In the past, Cen Hong was a grand marshal in charge of the country¡¯s troops. Despite his dissatisfaction towards Cen, he showed verbal respect.


    However, things were different now. A small county magistrate, especially one who hadmitted a mistake, deserved any scolding he received.


    Cen Hong ground his teeth, his face reddening from frustration before finally asking, ¡°What are the terms for a private settlement?¡±


    ¡°You previously demanded ten thousand taels of silver from Miss Qiao as a private settlement. Now, you just need topensate her the same amount,¡± Yang Ye nonchntly responded, swinging the fan in his hand.


    Cen Hong took a deep breath, gritting through his teeth the word, ¡°Fine.¡±


    The reason he had asked Xiaomai for ten thousand taels was because he was trying to seize Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s assets¡ª to cause her financial ruin.


    Once she had run out of money, she might have consideredying her hands on the hidden treasure.


    Indeed, he and Yang Wang hadn¡¯t given up on that treasure.


    The suspiciously wobbly brick in the basement ceiling must have implicated Xiaomai.<div>


    The disappearance of the treasure, Xiaomai had definitely taken part in.


    Should Xiaomai run out of money, she might have resorted to using the treasure.


    But who could have imagined that Yang Ye would use the ¡°Daqi Law¡± to smash his n to smithereens?


    His original n was to bankrupt Qiao Xiaomai.


    Now, he himself had to shell out ten thousand taels of silver.


    Ten thousand taels!


    Even though he was once a grand marshal, it still pained him to part with such arge sum of money.


    If he didn¡¯t hand over the ten thousand taels, the implications of a public punishment would be far more severe.


    He was already reduced to a county magistrate, the lowest military rank in Daqi. If he were to be demoted further, would he be assigned to teach soldiers martial arts?


    How could this be!


    Just a few months ago, he was the grand marshal in control of the country¡¯s troops!


    ¡°What¡¯s the matter? Can¡¯t even afford ten thousand taels?¡± Yang Ye raised an eyebrow. ¡°Then just let it be handled officially.¡±


    As he spoke, he tucked away the fan, stood up with his hands behind his back.


    ¡°Magistrate Dai, you¡­¡± before the sentence was finished, Cen Hong interrupted him. ¡°Your Highness! Wait!¡±


    Yang Ye stopped in his tracks, his gaze drifting sidelong at Cen Hong. His handsome visage was tinged with impatience.


    ¡°I¡¯ll pay.¡± Cen Hong¡¯s face turned an uncertain shade of red, squeezing these words out between clenched teeth.


    ¡°Then bring it quickly.¡± Yang Ye extended his hand in suggestion.


    ¡°I¡¯ll fetch it when I return home.¡±


    ¡°Well then, I¡¯ll wait here for you,¡± Yang Ye resettled on his seat, ¡°And remember, you have the time it takes to burn an incense stick. I will not wait a moment longer.¡±<div>


    With Cen Hong¡¯s skills, it would be easy.


    Cen Hong heaved a heavy sigh and headed home for the silver note using his skills.


    Since moving to Huai¡¯an County, he had brought along his dependents and purchased a property nearby in the County Town. It was not far.


    A quarter of an hourter, Yang Ye left the County Government Office with a gleeful Qiao Xiaomai.<div>


    Once they had boarded the returning carriage, he held a hundred silver notes in hand. Counting out fifty of them, he handed them to Qiao Xiaomai. ¡°Here, let¡¯s both profit from this little fortune.¡±@@novelbin@@


    Qiao Xiaomai shook her head, ¡°Your Highness can keep it. I don¡¯t want it.¡±


    ¡°Eh, we can all profit from this little fortune, thanks to you. You yed an important role, take it,¡± Yang Ye insisted, cing the fifty silver notes on Xiaomai¡¯sp.

 Chapter 542: 542: Why Did the Prince Not Marry?

    Chapter 542: Why Did the Prince Not Marry?


    Qiao Xiaomai pushed the banknote back into Yang Ye¡¯s chest, ¡°My lord, I am just an ordinary citizen, I can¡¯t ept thisrge sum of money. It feels as hot as fire in my hand.¡±


    ¡°Eh, Cen Hong will continue to hate you, no matter if you take it or not. Since that¡¯s the case, you might as well take it. ¡°Yang Ye said as he attempted to return the note to her.


    ¡°No, no, no.¡± Qiao Xiaomai quickly waved her hands, ¡°Even though it¡¯s as you said, I dare not take this money. If you do not want it as well, then you might as well donate it to the disaster victims of the Shuifeng Prefecture.¡±


    A lot of silver would be needed for post-disaster reconstruction.


    ¡°Consider it as redistributing wealth from the rich to the poor.¡± She said.


    Hearing these words, Yang Ye chuckled, his eyes shining brightly, ¡°Then I might as well donate all these ten thousand taels.¡±


    ¡°You decide, my lord.¡±


    ¡°Huh, this Mount Jiang belongs to my Yang Family, however, looking at me now, my consciousness isn¡¯t as high as yours.¡± Yang Ye sighed.


    ¡°You just didn¡¯t think of it earlier, my lord. You truly care for your people like your own children.¡± Qiao Xiaomaiplimented him.


    Yang Ye looked her up and down with his sparkling eyes, ¡°Speaking of which, have you really never considereding back to the capital with me? With your abilities, you shouldn¡¯t be confined to life as a simple vige girl.¡±<div>


    ¡°You hold this humble girl in too high regard, my lord.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t be too modest. Looking at it now, you shoulde back with me when I return to the capital.¡± Yang Ye said, his eyes curved like crescents.


    The expression on Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s face was faint, ¡°Just now, the mother of Tong Xingda¡¯s proposed a marriage.¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡± Yang Ye retracted his smile upon hearing this, ¡°They¡¯re pretty quick. However, are you really willing to marry him? Being with the Tong family, you¡¯re going to have a tough time.¡±


    ¡°Thank you for your concern, but no matter how tough it gets, if Tong Xingda is there, it will be bearable.¡±


    ¡°Oh my~!¡± Hearing this, Yang Ye exaggeratedly shouted, then he covered his handsome face with his hands, ¡°How unexpected, young girl¡¯s families, why are they so indiscreet!¡±


    He was embarrassed to hear this!


    He suddenly wanted a wife too!


    Seeing him like this, Qiao Xiaomai couldn¡¯t help but curve the corners of her mouth inughter.


    ¡°Why have you not married, my lord?¡± She asked.


    Upon mentioning this major issue, Yang Ye put down his hands from his face. He copsed on the bamboo mat behind him, looking somewhat dejected, ¡°Because until now, I have not met a maiden whom I like more than food.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai ¡°¡­¡±


    Now that¡¯s a real foodie¡­


    ¡°Why don¡¯t you change your attitude, be tender, be gentle, and then I¡¯ll take you as my queen.¡± Yang Ye tilted his head to look at her, his handsome face was graced with a smile.


    ¡°Why trouble yourself, my lord, you deserve someone much better.¡±


    ¡°Heh!¡± Yang Ye rolled his eyes without caring about his appearance, ¡°You¡¯re the one who doesn¡¯t want to put yourself in a tight spot, right?¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai just smiled without a word.


    Yang Ye snorted twice, casually opened the secretpartment in the carriage, took out a te of melon seeds.


    ¡°Watermelon seeds taste good too, but it¡¯s a pity that the emperor wants to promote it widely, so I can¡¯t eat it.¡± He ate the seeds while talking.<div>


    ¡°It¡¯ll be all right in a few years.¡± Responded Qiao Xiaomai.


    Hearing this, Yang Ye sighed with a somewhat mncholy expression, ¡°Speaking of which, if you really do marry Tong Xingda, who will take care of the wedding banquet?¡±


    This topic had changed rather abruptly, confusing Xiaomai. She then said, ¡± Definitely not me.¡±


    ¡°Then I guess there¡¯s no need for me to go.¡±<div>


    Qiao Xiaomai, ¡°¡­¡±


    Both of them chatted leisurely as they made their way back to Bailu Town. By then the noontime had passed, and Yang Ye would not let Xiaomai go, so he took her to eat at Jilu Restaurant.@@novelbin@@


    After lunch, Yang Yemanded the coachman to send Xiaomai back to Anping Vige.


    Upon arriving home, she saw her father, Qiao Changshun, sitting in the yard with Zhang family¡¯s and Tong Xingda by his side.

 Chapter 543: 543: Trading Favors for Return

    Chapter 543: Trading Favors for Return


    Zhang Family went back and tried to convince Tong Tiehu again, but he took no notice of her, so she dragged Tong Xingda into the fray instead.


    Tong Xingda was currently in a lethargic state of general disinterest in anything. After hearing Zhang Family¡¯s speech, he decided to join in.


    He too wanted to eat delicious food and was reluctant to go down to the fields to work.


    Marrying Qiao Xiaomai would allow him to return back to the way things were in an instant, so he decided to go ahead!


    Qiao Changshun himself had nothing against Tong Sang, but he found Zhang Family¡¯s visit that day distasteful and started worrying about possible issues between his daughter-inw and mother-inw.


    If Qiao Xiaomai would be treated like Zhuang Luhe if they married, then the marriage definitely could not happen.


    Therefore, no matter how many nice things Zhang Family said, he did not respond.


    Seeing Qiao Xiaomai back, he quickly beckoned her over, ¡°Xiaomai,e and sit.¡±


    Zhang Family saw Qiao Xiaomai, her face blooming into a smile like a spring flower, and her tone was both warm and intimate, ¡°Ah, Xiaomai is back, how did the case go?¡±


    ¡°With His Highness the Prince of Wei here, there¡¯s no problem,¡± Qiao Xiaomai replied, taking a seat on the stool.<div>


    ¡°Was that the Prince of Wei¡¯s carriage just now?¡± Zhang Family asked.


    Qiao Xiaomai responded affirmatively.


    Zhang Family¡¯s smile grew even more amiable, ¡°Have you eaten?¡±


    ¡°I have eaten.¡± Qiao Xiaomai looked at Zhang Family, a faint smile on her small face, ¡°Auntie, if you¡¯re here about the marriage proposition, you can leave. There¡¯s nothing to discuss.¡±


    Zhang Family was taken aback by the brusque dismissal. The smile on her face froze.


    Tong Xingda was sitting aside, grunted in response to her words, ¡°You should show some gratitude for all the help your Grandpa Tong and Sang have given you, Xiaomai.¡±


    At this, Qiao Xiaomai raised an eyebrow, and began to speak, ¡°Uncle Tong, the help that Grandpa Tong and Brother Tong have given me is not enough for me to offer my body in return, is it?¡±


    ¡°They saved your life several times. And at the time on the threshing floor, if Sang hadn¡¯t stepped forward to stop the local magistrate and the dogs, what do you think would have happened?¡± Tong Xingda asked.


    ¡°And at your Grandpa Tong¡¯s sixtieth birthday, it was a proper birthday banquet, and you cut yourself, causing blood to flow at the banquet. How inauspicious! In the end, wasn¡¯t it Sang who took you to Dr. Wu¡¯s house?¡±@@novelbin@@


    ¡°Then remember when the Sun Family first came to your house causing trouble? It was your Grandpa Tong and Sang who took the Sun Family¡¯s case to County Town for the annulment. If it wasn¡¯t for the annulment, would you have such easy days now?¡±


    ¡°Moreover, if the Sun Family was still your grandma, wouldn¡¯t she be living at your house every day and you wouldn¡¯t be able to do anything about it?¡±


    Saving your life, and getting rid of a major troublemaker like the Sun Family, isn¡¯t that a huge favor?


    ¡°Xiaomai, even though the properties you have now were earned by you, but during this period, without the help from your Grandpa Tong and Sang, do you think everything would have gone smoothly?¡±


    It has to be said thatpared with the ignorant woman Zhang Family, Tong Xingda was somewhat reasonable.


    His words left Qiao Xiaomai with no room to retort.


    Qiao Xiaomai looked at Tong Xingda, a faint smile still on her face, ¡°What Uncle Tong said is all true. I¡¯m able to live sofortably now thanks to therge part of help from Grandpa Tong and Sang. How about this: I¡¯ll give some silver as a gift to show my gratitude?¡±


    Upon hearing this, Zhang Family¡¯s eyes lit up.


    Why did she insist on having Sang marry Qiao Xiaomai?


    It was for the silver!<div>


    Now that Qiao Xiaomai was willing to use silver to resolve the problem, she was more than happy to ept.


    After all, she really didn¡¯t want to deal with a hard-headed troublemaker of a daughter-inw like Qiao Xiaomai.


    Just as she was about to speak, Tong Xingda stomped on her foot and then looked at Qiao Xiaomai with a smile, ¡°Xiaomai, talking about money is so vulgar, Sang and your Grandpa Tong genuinely like you.¡±


    <div>

 Chapter 544: 544: Ill Pay You Back

    Chapter 544: I¡¯ll Pay You Back


    Tong Xingda understood better than the Zhang Family.


    In demanding silver, he was converting the debt of favour that Qiao Xiaomai owed into a mary debt.@@novelbin@@


    What kind of debt is the hardest to repay?


    The answer is naturally a debt of favour.


    Especially when this debt of favour includes the grace of saving a life.


    That day, when Tong Sang had exhausted all his strength to block Cen Hong and save Qiao Xiaomai, the whole vige had seen it.


    With this debt of favour in ce, he could ask Qiao Xiaomai to do many things and he could keep asking over and over again. As long as his demands were not excessive, he could burden her with this obligation for a lifetime.


    If she pays with silver, then the bnce between the Qiao Family and the Tong Family would be cleared.


    He wouldn¡¯t be foolish enough to simplify such a precious debt of favour into a mary debt.


    Qiao Xiaomai herself was a gold mine. This gold mine needed to be utilized slowly over a long period of time. He wouldn¡¯t do something as stupid as killing the goose thatys the golden eggs.<div>


    ¡°Xiaomai, Sang truly wants to marry you. The two of you are a perfect match and I remember you not being repulsed by him previously. In that case, our families should be affinal, right?¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t have to repay those favours, our Tong Family will definitely treat you well. What do you think?¡±


    The faint smile on Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s face didn¡¯t change, ¡°Uncle Tong, I think it¡¯s better to use silver as a token of appreciation.¡±


    ¡°So you¡¯re wrong there. How much silver do you think you can offer to repay the grace of saving a life?¡±


    ¡°Also, your grandfather Tong and Sang helped you out of pure heart. Now, you want to tarnish this rtionship with the stench of money. Xiaomai, what you¡¯re doing is not right.¡± Tong Xingda, with a stern face, adopted a tone of an elder lecturing a younger one.


    Qiao Xiaomai didn¡¯t fall for his act. Shaking her index and middle finger, she said, ¡°Two thousand taels. After this, our families will continue as before, okay?¡±


    Two thousand taels!!!


    As this number came out, not only did the Zhang Family¡¯s eyes light up like a bulb, but their entire facial expressions also radiate ecstasy.


    Previously, their total wealth was only over a thousand taels, but now Qiao Xiaomai was offering two thousand taels.


    This could instantly restore their past glory!


    Tong Xingda, seeing her expression, couldn¡¯t help but step on her foot. Fool! If Tong Sang marries Qiao Xiaomai, they could earn ten times two thousand taels!


    ¡°Xiaomai, as I said, offering money is kind of insulting. Do you think your Grandfather Tong and Sang would want your silver?¡± He said in a profound and sincere tone.


    ¡°But please understand me too, Uncle Tong. No matter how huge the favour is, I have no intention of repaying it with my body.¡± Qiao Xiaomai was equally resolute.


    ¡°Why won¡¯t you marry?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not in a hurry, I¡¯m still young. Besides, my father¡¯s leg is not well, and my little brother is too young. As the pir of this family, I have no ns to marry.¡±


    ¡°We¡¯re from the same vige. Even after marriage, you can still manage things at your home.¡± Tong Xingda looked at Qiao Changshun who had been silent since Qiao Xiaomai returned, ¡°Changshun, wouldn¡¯t you agree?¡±


    Qiao Changshun rubbed his hands, smiling awkwardly, but said nothing.


    The family couldn¡¯t function without Qiao Xiaomai. Hecked Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s decisiveness and ruthlessness.


    ¡°Uncle Tong, as you can see, my father also disagrees with me getting married now. If there¡¯s nothing else, I would kindly ask you and your wife to leave.¡± Qiao Xiaomai showed them out again.<div>


    Tong Xingda thought for a moment and didn¡¯t insist. He got up, ¡°Alright then, give some thought to what I just said. Your grandfather Tong and Sang like you. We¡¯re from the same vige, marrying wouldn¡¯t be much different from not.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai just smiled without saying a word.


    Not much difference?


    The difference was huge!<div>


    If she became rted to Tong Sang through marriage, Zhang Family and Tong Xingda would be her elders. With the duty of filial piety on her, she would have to be more cautious in her actions.

 Chapter 577: 577: Teaching Braised Pork

    Chapter 577: Chapter 577: Teaching Braised Pork


    Tong Erng was purely salivating over the meat, Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s braised pork was so good that he unconsciously leaned over.


    He had no awareness that his unintentional remark would annoy Zhu Hongyun; seeing Qiao Xiaomai only smile, he asked another question, ¡°Xiaomai, we¡¯re all family, don¡¯t hold out on us.¡±


    ¡°If your sister-inw wants to learn, I¡¯ll teach herter,¡± Qiao Xiaomai readily agreed.


    Having been pampered by Tong Sanng for the past two nights after their marriage, her mood was as broad as the sea at this moment. Not only were the people in front of her not as annoying as before, but she was even willing to teach them how to cook braised pork.


    We¡¯re family, after all. So, if they love it, sure, I¡¯ll teach!


    Upon hearing this, Tong Erng immediately jumped in excitement, ¡°Wow, Xiaoyun, Xiaoyun,e over here, Xiaomai is willing to teach you how to cook braised pork!¡±


    Zhu Hongyun, whose heart was filled with resentment at the moment, struggled to find any amusement in these words.


    On the other hand, Li Rou, who was washing Tong Xiaoxing¡¯s face nearby, immediately smiled and spoke up, ¡°Xiaomai, you can¡¯t just teach your sister-inw.¡±


    ¡°Sure, I¡¯ll teach everyone,¡± Qiao Xiaomai nodded happily in agreement.


    Good timing too, since Tong Sanng had bought 10 taels of pork belly yesterday. She had only cooked 5, so she could use the remaining 5 for teaching.<div>


    Having received Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s green light, Tong Erng and Li Rou were both in high spirits, wearing smiles throughout breakfast.


    5 taels of pork belly were shared and finished off by the whole family.


    Only half a pot of steamed buns were left from the initialrge pot.


    Even the rice porridge waspletely drunk up.


    Poor Mrs. Zhang couldn¡¯t partake in the feast due to her illness. She couldn¡¯t eat heavy food, so the braised pork wasn¡¯t meant for her.


    All she could do was take a whiff of the pork aroma while eating in porridge and medicine.


    Seeing her gritting her teeth, Li Rou advised her, ¡°Mom, don¡¯t rush to recover. If you do, we¡¯ll have to split the family. Xiaomai is willing to teach braised pork now, and she may be willing to teach other dishester on. It¡¯s best for you to stay sick, okay?¡±


    The initial conditions agreed on were: once Qiao Xiaomai married into the family and Mrs. Zhang¡¯s illness recovered, the family would then be separated.


    Li Rou knew about this, but Zhu Hongyun and Tong Erng, who were not present at the time, were not aware of this.


    To avoid causing a scene with the couple, no one had informed them.


    So in Li Rou¡¯s view, Zhu Hongyun¡¯s reluctance was nothing but foolishness. They were going to separate eventually anyway, so why not grab whatever they could now? Why pull a long face?


    Stupid!


    The more Mrs. Zhang listened, the more she gritted her teeth.


    During the hot summer days, she had to eat, drink, and do all her business inside this room. It was truly stifling her.


    When it came to food, she really had reached the point where she felt a bird would fly out of her in mouth!


    ¡°Mom, any benefits Hongyun and I get will naturally be shared with you. You just peacefully stay sick for a little longer,¡± seeing her situation, Li Rou continued to persuade her.


    Even if they could only learn a few dishes from Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s culinary skills, that would be enough to make her happy.


    Mrs. Zhang thought about the days after the family split and remembered the words of Tong Sanng before. She gritted her teeth and decided to tolerate it!


    She would stay ill for a little longer!<div>


    After getting the go-ahead from Mrs. Zhang, Li Rou was delighted. She picked up the bowls and dishes to clean them, ¡°Mom, you wait. Once I learn how to make braised pork, I¡¯ll wash your clothes.¡±


    With a gloomy face, Mrs. Zhang just replied.


    Soon after, Li Rou went out, cheerfully helping Qiao Xiaomai clean pots and dishes while Zhu Hongyun, with a long face, stood still by the kitchen door.


    Once the kitchen was tidy, Qiao Xiaomai brought out the remaining 5 taels of pork and started teaching the two how to cook braised pork.<div>


    She had cooked braised pork many times before and had even made it publicly during apetition at Bailu Academy. Although the judges were seated high up and couldn¡¯t observe the detailed steps, ording to Tong Sanng, the Zuixian Building had been researching it for a while. However, their version didn¡¯t taste nearly as good as hers.


    So, at this moment, she boldly teaches the two of them, knowing that as long as she has the Spiritual Spring water, nobody can cook as well as she can.

 Chapter 578: 578: The Craftsmanship Has Improved Again

    Chapter 578: Chapter 578: The Craftsmanship Has Improved Again


    ¡°That¡¯s it?¡± Zhu Hongyun asked after watching Qiao Xiaomai demonstrate all the steps, her eyebrows furrowed.


    ¡°Yes, it just needs to be cooked for another half an hour. Did you remember all the steps?¡± Xiaomai nced at Li Rou and then at Zhu Hongyun.


    ¡°I remember.¡± Li Rou nodded. ¡°Shall I give it a try now?¡±


    ¡°Go ahead,¡± Xiaomai nodded.


    Li Rou then picked up the knife and started cutting the meat while Xiaomai continued to squat by the stove and tend to the fire.


    Zhu Hongyun watched from the side.


    Very soon, Li Rou cooked a pot ording to Xiaomai¡¯s instructions. Since Xiaomai had reced the water in the bucket with Spiritual Spring water in the morning, the taste of Li Rou¡¯s dish was not much different from Xiaomai¡¯s.


    Li Rou was overjoyed and returned to her room with a te of meat, herughter echoing in the air.


    Seeing this, Zhu Hongyun¡¯s eyes shed, and she began to cook as well.


    Her cooking skills were mediocre, but with Xiaomai¡¯s Spiritual Spring water, the food tasted pretty good.<div>


    Her gloomy face that had persisted all morning finally lightened up. She too, returned to her room with a te of meat, a smile on her face.


    Upon seeing this, Xiaomai served her own portion into a bowl, cleaned the pot and bowls, steamed an egg custard, and then returned to her room.


    Tong Sang was still sleeping. With not much else to do, Xiaomai decided to wash their clothes.


    She did not use the bowl from the Tong Family, but her own bathing tub. However, because there were people at home, she did not show off her strength, washing the clothes slowly like an ordinary person would.


    By the time she finished washing and hung the clothes to dry on the line, it was already mid-morning.


    At that moment, Tong Sang finally woke up.


    ¡°Oh, the sleeping beauty is finally awake?¡± Xiaomai teased, a bright smile on her face as she leaned over the bed.


    Tong Sang, though recently awake, his eyes were already clear. He beckoned Xiaomai with a finger, ¡°Kiss me.¡±


    The smile on Xiaomai¡¯s face grew wider. She leaned in to kiss him hard on the lips, lingered for a moment before swiftly pulling away.


    Upon seeing this, Tong Sang did not sit up to chase her, only blinked his eyes, ¡°I¡¯m feeling sore.¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡± Xiaomai paused, her smile frozen on her face, ¡°Sore?¡±


    ¡°Yes, sore.¡± Tong Sang said as he turned over, ¡°Come, give me a massage.¡±


    ¡°Could it be that I¡¯m actually a subus and have drained all of your energy?!¡± Xiaomai eximed in shock.


    When had Tong Sang everined of feeling sore?


    ¡°No, I think I¡¯m just tired these days.¡± Tong Sang¡¯s exnation echoed Tong Tiehu¡¯s.


    ¡°I need to give you a proper replenishment then.¡± Saying so, Xiaomai climbed up the bed and started massaging Tong Sang in the same manner that he did for her the night before.


    She was strong, and Tong Sang could not help but groan a couple of times.


    Xiaomai noticed this and gave him a tap on his buttocks, ¡°I¡¯ve steamed egg custard, but we also have braised pork, which one do you want to eat?¡±


    ¡°Egg custard.¡±<div>


    ¡°Wait.¡±


    ¡°No need, I¡¯m not so tired that I can¡¯t get out of bed.¡± He just felt exhausted, as if all his energy had been drained, and even lifting his arm felt like too much.


    Probably just fatigue.


    Tong Sang made the guess. Once Xiaomai finished the massage, he jumped off the bed to wash up and eat.<div>


    ¡°Huh? Your cooking has improved again.¡± Tong Sang expressed his surprise after taking the first bite of egg custard.


    ¡°I noticed it too.¡± Xiaomai nodded.


    The people of the Tong family didn¡¯t have many opportunities to taste her cooking, so they didn¡¯t notice it, but she ate her own cooking every day and could tell the difference.


    Moreover, the Spiritual Spring water in her space did indeed taste much sweeter and purer.

 Chapter 547: 547: Want to Send a Coffin to the Zhang Family

    Chapter 547: Want to Send a Coffin to the Zhang Family


    One day, Dr. Wu came over again to examine Lady Zhang. After the examination, he somberly called over Tong Da, Tong Er, and Tong San.


    Lady Zhang¡¯s condition is severe. It¡¯s time to quietly arrange for her final affairs.


    These words shocked the three brothers.


    They had no idea that she was pretending to be sick.


    After delivering the news, Dr. Wu picked up his medical bag and went home.


    Tong San hesitated, and then followed him.


    Chest pain?


    So severe that they need to arrange for her final affairs?


    This was too suspicious.


    Faced with Tong San¡¯s doubts, Dr. Wu simply exined the situation, ¡°What to do next is entirely up to you.¡±<div>


    Having said that, Dr. Wu continued on his way home.


    This family really loves their drama.


    But since they¡¯ve involved him in this y, they naturally should pay his appearance fee. He wouldn¡¯t return the five taels of silver.


    Standing there, Tong San suddenly understood what Qiao Xiaomai meant by ¡°chaos in the wind¡±. It was a scene and state of mind just like this.


    The atmosphere at home had been heavy these few days because of Lady Zhang¡¯s illness.


    He was worried too and had been hunting more frequently, trying to earn some extra silver for Lady Zhang¡¯s medical expenses.


    But he hadn¡¯t expected at all that this was Lady Zhang¡¯s gambit.


    He returned home with mixed feelings to see Tong Da preparing the ox cart, nning to take Lady Zhang to town for a checkup.


    Tong Er went to the new residence to fetch Tong Xingda and Tong Tiehu.


    The new residence housed their livestock and shop, so Tong Tiehu spent most of his time there.


    When everyone had returned and gathered around Lady Zhang¡¯s sickbed, they all suggested taking her to town. Zhu Hongyun, feigning panic, suggested: what about a wedding to reverse the bad luck?@@novelbin@@


    When this proposal was made, all eyes turned to Tong San.


    Tong San said, ¡°We should still take her to town for a checkup.¡±


    ¡°Dr. Wu¡¯s medical skills are no worse than those of the town clinic. If he says our mother is seriously ill, she must be. So why don¡¯t we reverse the bad luck by getting married?¡± Zhu Hongyun suggested.


    Tong San remained silent, but looked at Tong Tiehu.


    With his dark eyes, Tong Tiehu frowned, ¡°Let¡¯s take her to town first.¡±


    When Tong Tiehu spoke, naturally they would go to town.


    So, the whole group set off for the town.


    Lady Zhang looked haggard and keptining about chest pains. The town doctor checked her pulse and found it normal.<div>


    In the case of a normal pulse, constantints of chest pain left the town doctor perplexed. He could only surmise that she really did have a heart problem, and he also suggested preparing for her final affairs.


    Everyone returned to Anping Vige. Tong San found a gap in time to ask Tong Tiehu what they should do.


    Should they go along with the n and propose marriage to Qiao Xiaomai, or should they confront Lady Zhang about her lie?


    To tell the truth, the fact that Lady Zhang had resorted to this step showed that she had no other options left.<div>


    Originally, he had not wanted a wife just to push Lady Zhang to go propose at Qiao¡¯s Family. Now that Lady Zhang had no other options, could he go propose to Qiao Xiaomai as Lady Zhang had said?


    Tong Tiehu nodded, ¡°Okay.¡±


    If they reverse the bad luck by getting Qiao Xiaomai married, Lady Zhang¡¯s condition will surely improve after the wedding.


    By then, it would also be good for Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s reputation.


    Actually, whether it¡¯s good or bad, with Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s temperament, she definitely wouldn¡¯t care about her reputation.


    Tong San and Tong Tiehu agreed, Tong San would discuss this matter when he visited Qiao Xiaomai at night.


    When Qiao Xiaomai heard this, she really wanted to do as Dr. Wu said and prepare for Lady Zhang¡¯s afterlife.


    She would pay for the funeral expenses!


    If she got married under the guise of reversing the bad luck, they surely couldn¡¯t divide the family. Afterwards, she¡¯d still have to y a dutiful wife and serve Lady Zhang!

 Chapter 580: Selling Braised Pork

    Chapter 580: Chapter 580: Selling Braised Pork


    However, the cost of the meal didn¡¯t even reach one hundred taels, and Shopkeeper He quickly brought up a pile of broken silver.


    The food came up quickly as well. Qiao Xiaomai insisted on making Tong Sang devour most of it, inting his t stomach. It protruded slightly, like a small belly.


    Qiao Xiaomai satisfyingly patted on his stomach and casually continued eating.


    After finishing the meal, the pair did not leave. With the hot sun outside, they decided to rx in the private room instead.


    They sat in Jiwiju for half an hour before they decided to leave.


    By then, it was past lunchtime. There were only a few sporadic customers in the main hall, with Shopkeeper He standing at the counter, counting on his abacus.


    Just then, a waiter ran hurriedly in from the backyard, whispered a few words in Shopkeeper He¡¯s ear, and then left.


    His brow instantly furrowed.


    Just then, Qiao Xiaomai and Tong Sang came down from the second floor. Qiao Xiaomai greeted him as she arrived in front, ¡°Shopkeeper, we¡¯re leaving now.¡±


    ¡°Wait,¡± seeing them, Shopkeeper He¡¯s brows wrinkled tighter.


    ¡°What¡¯s the matter?¡± asked Qiao Xiaomai curiously.


    ¡°Follow me.¡± Shopkeeper He quickly walked towards the backyard.


    Qiao Xiaomai and Tong Sang exchanged a nce and followed him.


    In Shopkeeper He¡¯s room, he got straight to the point without beating around the bush, ¡°A mole just reported that your second sister-inw went to the Zuixian Building and taught the chef there how to cook.¡±


    Jiwiju and Zuixian Building each had spies nted in the other¡¯s establishment, ensuring that they were both informed of each other¡¯stest happenings.


    At the moment, it is unknown what Zhu Hongyun had taught the chef at Zuixian Building, but given that she dared to enter that ce, it must not be ordinary.


    Moreover, this matter, nine out of ten, implicates Qiao Xiaomai.


    Qiao Xiaomai ¡°¡­¡±


    She blinked her eyes, feeling rather helpless.


    ¡°I just taught her how to cook braised pork this morning.¡±


    She wondered, can things be progressing that quickly?


    And she doesn¡¯t remember Zhu Hongyun leaving home, does she?


    Upon hearing this, Shopkeeper He gasped in surprise. As close as he was to Qiao Xiaomai, he didn¡¯t get the recipe for braised pork. And now the recipe ended up in the hands of Zuixian Building. It pained him to think of it!


    ¡°Her cooking skills are not as good as mine.¡± Seeing Shopkeeper He as though he had just lost thousands of taels of silver, Qiao Xiaomaiforted him.


    ¡°Should I buy the recipe now?¡± He asked immediately, determined not to lose out to the Zuixian Building.


    Qiao Xiaomai turned to look at Tong Sang.


    Tong Sang nodded, ¡°Sell it.¡±


    Although the elder hadmanded earlier, after all, Tong Liu was his grandfather, and half of Jiwiju still belonged to his family.


    ¡°Shopkeeper, how many taels of silver are you offering?¡± asked Qiao Xiaomai.


    ¡°That depends on you.¡± Shopkeeper He smiled like Maitreya Buddha, ¡°After all, we are all family.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai also smiled, ¡°Then, one hundred taels.¡±


    In fact, there are many ways to cook braised pork, and Zuixian Building had also sort of figured it out before. It¡¯s just that their taste was not as good as hers.


    Given this, she can¡¯t ask for too much.


    This price was considered cheap in Shopkeeper He¡¯s eyes. When he learned that Qiao Xiaomai was going to teach him several methods, he was ecstatic.


    See that? Marrying Qiao Xiaomai was like marrying a gold mine. From now on, there¡¯s a great chance for Jiwiju to surpass Zuixian Building!


    By the time Qiao Xiaomai and Tong Sang left Jiwiju, it was already mid-afternoon. Qiao Xiaomai got on the ox cart and stuffed the hundred taels given by Shopkeeper He into Tong Sang¡¯s arms, ¡°Pocket money.¡±


    Tong Sang, ¡°¡­but I don¡¯t have any wages to hand in now.¡±


    ¡°You have given your whole self to me, it¡¯s the same whether you have wages or not.¡± Qiao Xiaomai happily patted his face.


    Tong Sang ¡°¡­¡±


    He licked his lips, ¡°About your¡­second sister-inw¡­are you upset?¡±


    [It¡¯s hot, eat something light, only got meat scraps~]

 Chapter 549: 549: Can You Rebel Against Your Mother?

    Chapter 549: Can You Rebel Against Your Mother?


    With Zhang Family finally deciding to separate, Tong Sang felt relieved and immediately went to the Qiao Family to propose marriage.


    Of course, he was still carrying the golden step shake and the piece of cloth as gift.


    Qiao Changshun was at home at the time. Tong Sang set down his belongings, his voice and expressions extremely grave as he proceeded to discuss the necessity of marrying into Zhang Family to bring them good fortune.


    Before Qiao Xiaomai could even respond, Qiao Changshun tly rejected him, ¡°No, no, no.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai and Tong Sang immediately turned their attention to him.


    Qiao Changshun nervously rubbed hisrge hands together, exining, ¡°Sang, although I quite like you, Xiaomai absolutely cannot marry you under the pretext of bringing good luck. What if she marries into your family and your mother¡¯s health still doesn¡¯t improve? That will harm her reputation.¡±@@novelbin@@


    To be honest, Qiao Changshun hade to a realization during this period. Of all the people he knew, Tong Sang was the most outstanding. Therefore, he had wished for Qiao Xiaomai to marry him.


    But ever since the students from Bailu Academy had been invited for dinner, his opinion had changed.


    Although those students couldn¡¯tpare to Tong Sang in terms of looks or vitality, their families were well-off and none of them had a domineering mother like Zhang Family.


    After all, even without those students, there was still Yang Ye.<div>


    Observing Yang Ye¡¯s usual amiable attitude towards Xiaomai, if he exerted a little effort, couldn¡¯t Xiaomai possibly be a concubine, or even the main wife?


    So, given Xiaomai¡¯s limitless prospects, there was no need for her to fixate on Tong Sang.


    Although Tong Sang was a good choice, he was surrounded by rotten trees. Qiao Changshun did not want Xiaomai to suffer after marriage.


    Hearing Qiao Changshun¡¯s words, Tong Sang contemted for a while before responding, ¡°Uncle Changshun, indeed this situation is unfair to Xiaomai. I can ask my grandfather to announce in front of the whole vige, that regardless of whether my mother lives or dies, it has nothing to do with Xiaomai.¡±


    Huh?


    Live or die?


    As these words hung in the air, Qiao Changshun was taken aback, his mind starting to whirl quickly.


    Well, considering that Ms. Zhang was now so seriously ill that she needed good luck, if she ended up dying, Xiaomai would no longer have a mother-inw.


    No mother-inw¡­


    That would be a joyous thing, a great joy indeed!


    Xiaomai wouldn¡¯t have to worry about conflicts with her mother-inw then!


    Tong Sang unaware of Qiao Changshun¡¯s thoughts, continued his pleas, seeing as Qiao Changshun remained silent, ¡°Uncle Changshun, I¡¯m sure my mother misunderstood Xiaomai before. Rest assured, once my mother recovers, the Tong Family will separate.¡±


    ¡°I will do everything in my power to protect Xiaomai, and I will not let her suffer.¡±


    Separate?


    Upon hearing this, Qiao Changshun finally turned his gaze onto Tong Sang.


    That¡¯s a good thing to say. If Ms. Zhang dies, well, she¡¯s dead. But if she doesn¡¯t, then they¡¯ll separate.


    This proposition indeed seems to be in Xiaomai¡¯s favor.


    However, recalling his own experiences dealing with Sun Family after separating, he immediately furrowed his previously rxed eyebrows, ¡°Sang, you see, separation doesn¡¯t necessarily solve all problems. Look at what happened to my family.¡±


    At these words, Qiao Xiaomai and Tong Sang exchanged nces.<div>


    They thought Qiao Changshun was quietly epting the situation, who would have known he had so many thoughts?


    ¡°Uncle Changshun, rest assured, I will not allow what happened in your house to ur in mine,¡± Tong Sang promised earnestly.


    ¡°Oh? Can you disobey your mother?¡± Qiao Changshun asked.


    ¡°I can!¡± Tong Sang answered resolutely.<div>


    He was obedient to his parents, but he wasn¡¯t foolishly so.


    ¡°Then return home for now, let Xiaomai and me think it over,¡± Qiao Changshun waved his hand to dismiss him.

 Chapter 582: 582: Block Her at the Door

    Chapter 582: Chapter 582: Block Her at the Door


    As soon as Zhu Cuiying began filling Zhu Hongyun¡¯s head with all sorts of negative talk about Qiao Xiaomai, Zhu Hongyun already had an unfavorable opinion of her.


    Afterwards, because of Qiao Xiaomai, Zhu Hongyun found himself growing irritated on several asions.


    However, as long as Qiao Xiaomai was not mentioned, the atmosphere at home was still quite pleasant.


    But then, the royal decree had arrived ordering the confiscation of their family property. This order stripped away the illusion of harmony that had prevailed in their home.


    Underneath the mask, everyone¡¯s hidden agendas wereid bare.


    Even if their lifestyle eventually returned to its former state, could they really forget the discord, no, the filth of this period?


    No, they could not forget. Each time they thought of it, they would always feel strange.


    Therefore, the atmosphere at home could never return to what it once was.


    ¡°They won¡¯t stop doing things because of my difficulties, my distress does not factor into their considerations. But you, you consider my feelings, you do not initiate any scheme, which is already a relief.¡±


    The person he loves on one side, his family on the other, Qiao Xiaomai only responds but never initiates trouble. This allowed him relief.<div>


    As the youngest in the family, he had no control over anyone¡¯s actions.


    Qiao Xiaomai actively thinking on his behalf was very nice.


    Upon hearing this, Qiao Xiaomai blinked her clear, peach blossom eyes, ¡°Do you think I¡¯m selfish?¡±


    ¡°Not selfish, reciprocation is equitable.¡±


    Looking at how his mother and sisters-inw behaved, asking Qiao Xiaomai to be tolerant with love is a lot to ask of her.


    Reciprocation is equitable.


    Qiao Xiaomai processed these four characters in her mind and began tough, ¡°A wise person.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m d you could tell me these things.¡±


    The ox cart was parked in the back alley of the Extreme vor Residence. Seeing that no one was around, Tong Sang lifted Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s hand and kissed it, ¡°Between husband and wife, we should always be open and transparent, with no reservations.¡±


    At his words, Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s smile widened, ¡°Indeed.¡±


    ¡°Shall we go home?¡± asked Tong Sang.


    ¡°Aren¡¯t we going to confront her at the entrance of the Zuixian Building?¡± Qiao Xiaomai said.


    ¡°Let¡¯s not, I¡¯m afraid it would expose the informants from the Extreme vor Residence,¡± replied Tong Sang.


    ¡°What if she stubbornly refuses to admit itter? How about we pretend to go to the Zuixian Building to buy something?¡± Qiao Xiaomai questioned.


    Thinking about Zhu Hongyun¡¯s possible reaction, Tong Sang nodded, ¡°Sounds good.¡±


    ¡°Then let¡¯s go, buy some abalone, shark¡¯s fin, and sea cucumber to cook Buddha Jumps Over the Wall,¡± she suggested.


    She was preparing such a grand dish to show her sincerity when she unexpectedly caught Zhu Hongyun selling the recipe for braised pork to the Zuixian Building. This sudden discovery was like a bucket of cold water dumped on her sincere heart.


    The plot was perfect.


    Then, Tong Sang straightened up, snapped the reins, the ox lifted its hooves, and they started towards their destination.<div>


    It was mid-afternoon and the sun was zing hot. Qiao Xiaomai held an umbre for them both as they quickly reached the Zuixian Building.


    They didn¡¯t go to the back door of the Zuixian Building, instead they parked the ox cart at the entrance. It was off-peak mealtime, so they weren¡¯t worried about blocking the entryway.


    Everyone knew Qiao Xiaomai and Tong Sang at the Zuixian Building. Seeing them arrive, the waiter approached them with a ttering smile, ¡°Ah, what can I assist you two with?¡±


    ¡°Where¡¯s Shopkeeper Zhou? I¡¯d like to buy some things from him,¡± Qiao Xiaomai replied with an equally radiant smile.<div>


    ¡°The shopkeeper¡¯s in the kitchen, I¡¯ll go and fetch him.¡±


    The waiter said, and hustled off to the kitchen.


    In no time at all, Shopkeeper Zhou came out, his face beaming like a flower, showing no sign of anything unusual.


    ¡°Miss Qiao, what a rare visit, it¡¯s been a long time,¡± Shopkeeper Zhou gestured for Qiao Xiaomai and Tong Sang to take a seat.

 Chapter 551: 551: The Issue of Dowry

    Chapter 551: The Issue of Dowry


    Seeing that Qiao Xiaomai had made up her mind, Qiao Changshun sighed.


    Well, that had touched a chord with him. Although Qiao Xiaomai had more choices now, if she married and moved somewhere else, leaving him with just Qiao Dami and Zhuang Luhe, he wouldn¡¯t feel great about it.


    ¡°Then, first get the Vige Chief Tong to talk upfront about whether Sang¡¯s mother lives or dies, it has nothing to do with you.¡± He advised.


    Qiao Xiaomai nodded, ¡°Of course.¡±


    Consequently, when Tong Sang came over that night, the definitive response he got was ¡°marry.¡±


    Marry!


    At first, upon hearing the word, Tong Sang was stunned, then emotions of joy quickly spread from his eyes across his face, soon they engulfed his entire body.


    Unconsciously, he stuck out his tongue and licked his dry lips, stumbling over his words, ¡°This, this is wonderful, wonderful, wonderful!¡±


    ¡°Then go invite your grandfather and father over. Let¡¯s discuss the wedding arrangements.¡± Qiao Changshun said, standing aside and watching him, his feelingsplicated.


    When he learned years ago that Zhuang Luhe was to marry him, he was just as ecstatic as a fool.<div>


    Upon hearing these words, Tong Sang nodded vigorously, lifted his foot and used light steps to fly away.


    Qiao Xiaomai watched his handsome figure retreating, silently admonishing to herself, was there any need for him to act so excitedly, she had already agreed to his marriage proposal long ago.


    However, she did appreciate his joyful expression.


    Soon enough, Tong Tiehu, Tong Xingda, and Tong Sang arrived.


    Zhu Hongyun and the Qian Family also wanted to join, but were stopped by them.


    Both sides sat down under the willow tree, Tong Tiehu stated frankly, ¡°Changsun, the matter of Sang¡¯s mother¡¯s sickness can¡¯t wait, how about getting married three dayster?¡±


    ¡°In such a hurry?¡± Qiao Changshun was taken aback.


    Qiao Xiaomai was also somewhat surprised, three dayster?@@novelbin@@


    Others took several months to prepare for marriage, whereas she had nothing?


    ¡°There¡¯s no other way. It¡¯s for good luck; Sang¡¯s mother¡¯s health can¡¯t wait.¡± Tong Tiehu said.


    ¡°But wouldn¡¯t this be too unfair on Xiaomai? Just three days, what can she prepare?¡±


    She didn¡¯t insist on having a new house, but she must at least have some furniture, right?


    There is also the wedding gown, and Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s dowry, none of this has been prepared yet!


    ¡°She doesn¡¯t need to prepare anything, Xiaomai can simply bring two boxes of new clothes when she marries. Keep everything simple. Once Sang¡¯s mother improves, and my Tong Family¡¯s days also improve, a new ceremony can be conducted for her and Sang.¡± Tong Tiehu said.


    This was also the result of his discussion with Tong Sang.


    Zhang Family merely wanted money, Qiao Xiaomai would not bring a dowry, saving the possibility of Zhang Family getting greedy and causing trouble.


    The women of the Tong Family were traditionally given two wooden boxes when they married; this way, it wouldn¡¯t be necessary for Qiao Xiaomai to make a big show.


    ¡°Um¡­¡± Qiao Changshun was dumbfounded.


    His daughter, Xiaomai, with her current status, shouldn¡¯t she at least have a grand style, even if not extravagant?<div>


    Just two wooden boxes?


    That had to be a joke!


    ¡°Of course, if Xiaomai has things she feels are practical, she can also bring them along. After Sang¡¯s mother¡¯s health improves and we separate, they will be the only ones living in the old courtyard. They can keep as many things there as they like.¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡± Upon hearing this, Qiao Changshun was stunned.<div>


    Qiao Xiaomai too was stunned.


    This did not align with what Tong Sang had previously said.


    Tong Sang had said before that Tong Tiehu and Qian Family would also live in the old courtyard.


    ¡°The newly married couple needs some space. We old folks won¡¯t crowd around them.¡± Seeing that both father and daughter in the Qiao Family were stunned, Tong Tiehu exined.

 Chapter 552: 552: Wronging Xiaomai

    Chapter 552: Wronging Xiaomai


    ¡°This doesn¡¯t seem right¡­¡± After a moment of stupor, Qiao Changshun spoke up.


    Driving all the Tong family members to live in the new house after the wedding, leaving only Xiaomai and the third Tong son behind in the old house, how would this sound from the outside?


    Normally, Tong eldest son and his family would remain in the oldpound, along with Tiehu, the Qian family, Tong Xingda, and Zhang family elders. The second and third Tong sons would move out.


    ¡°There¡¯s nothing wrong with it, the old house is outdated. If we can live in a new house, naturally we¡¯d opt for the new house,¡± Tong Tiehu conceded.


    Qiao Changshun ¡°¡­¡±


    He turned his head to consult with Xiaomai.


    Xiaomai stared with her peach blossom eyes, a nk look on her face.


    Honestly, she had considered getting married with Tong¡¯s third son from early in the morning, but she had not contemted such detailed issues.


    Moving to the old house of the Tong family?


    Although the house of the Tong family was made of blue tile and brick, it was old. Additionally, maybe due to having such good living conditions in the past, and after crossing over, the Qiao family house was also in good condition, so now she was expected to live in an aged house which had been there for decades.<div>


    Well, even if Tiehu was in the house, she was still a bit reluctant.


    After blinking, she immediately figured out the reason.@@novelbin@@


    This wasn¡¯t about the house, it was about the Tong Family members.


    She didn¡¯t like people like Zhang family and Zhu Hongyun.


    Now that these people have moved away and want her to use the house in which they had previously lived, she was overwhelmingly resistant!


    ¡°This might indeed wrong Xiaomai a bit. When the family is better off, we¡¯ll renovate the house again,¡± Tong Tiehu said, seeing that Xiaomai kept silent.


    ¡°So it¡¯s like this¡­¡± Qiao Changshun rubbed his hands together.


    Seeking good fortune indeed took time.


    But everything was too sudden, which meant that Xiaomai needed to pack up two wooden boxes, carry the boxes to the Tong family, and that constituted her marriage.


    ¡°Will there be a banquet then?¡± Asked Qiao Changshun again.


    ¡°We¡¯ll invite rtives and friends from both sides, but not the vigers,¡± Tong Tiehu replied.


    Even if they wanted to invite them, the family didn¡¯t have any money¡­


    The current expenditure was sustained only by the game Tong¡¯s third son hunted.


    If only inviting rtives, that would mean that Tong¡¯s third son would have to hunt again tomorrow.


    He¡¯d been hunting frequently these days, and it was bing harder and harder to find prey.


    With this thought, Tong Tiehu said, ¡°Changshun, don¡¯t worry. Once the our family¡¯s situation improves, I will definitely throw a grand wedding for the young couple. There will be a new house, a vige-wide celebration, even a theatrical troupe.¡±


    ¡°In short, everything we owe them today we¡¯ll definitely make up in the future.¡±


    Hearing this, Qiao Changshun felt restlessly uncertain.


    Improving the family¡¯s livelihood?<div>


    How could the Tong family improve their living conditions?


    They were relying on this scant farnd and bean sprout sales, concurrently divided amongst the three brothers. It was quite difficult to improve with this.


    In the end, without Xiaomai¡¯s money, they could only rely on Tong¡¯s third son hunting.


    Qiao Changshun looked at Xiaomai. As it was Xiaomai¡¯s wedding, as long as Xiaomai was willing, he would have to agree.<div>


    At the same time, everyone¡¯s gaze turned to Xiaomai.


    Xiaomai cleared her throat quietly and said, ¡°Let¡¯s follow Grandpa Tong¡¯s n and keep everything simple.¡±


    ¡°Didn¡¯t Auntie buy a gold Ruyi? Return it to the daughter¡¯s cab and use that money to cover all the wedding expenses.¡±


    She didn¡¯t like the Ruyi that Zhang family had chosen at all.


    Instead of letting Tong¡¯s third son go hunting again, it would be better to return the gold Ruyi.


    She would return the half of the silver that Zhang family had paid, leaving only Tong¡¯s third son¡¯s one hundred taels. This would be enough for the banquet.

 Chapter 553: 553: Did She Marry Just to Suffer?

    Chapter 553: Did She Marry Just to Suffer?


    After Xiaomai finished speaking, Tong Tiehu frowned, ¡°The Tong Family should have a betrothal gift.¡±


    ¡°That bolt of cloth will do. After all, I¡¯m not bringing a dowry.¡± She packed her daily clothes and items into boxes and brought them to the Tong Family.


    If she¡¯s not happy in the Tong Family, she¡¯ll just go back to her own home.


    ¡°Okay.¡± Since Xiaomai has spoken, Tong Tiehu had no objections.


    Tong Tiehu didn¡¯t have any objections, and neither did Tong Xingda and Tong Sang.


    And thus, this matter was settled.


    The few of them discussed some details until deep into the night, and the three from the Tong Family eventually left.


    Qiao Changshun sat in the courtyard, looking up at the stars in the sky, listening to the sporadic noises of the frogs, his heart heavy.


    Zhuang Luhe was gone, and now Xiaomai was about to get married too.


    Even if she was just moving to another house in the same vige, it still made his heart ache.<div>


    After Xiaomai finished washing up, seeing Qiao Changshun gazing at the stars, she couldn¡¯t help but say, ¡°Dad, you should wash up and sleep.¡±


    After a pause, she added, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I wille back every day.¡±@@novelbin@@


    At this, Qiao Changshun couldn¡¯t help but smile, albeit a bit bitterly. ¡°A married daughter is not supposed to visit her parents¡¯ house every day, the people of the Tong Family may not like that.¡±


    ¡°What do you mean, ¡®supposed to¡¯? Can I note back ording to the Daqi Law? Who in this vige would dare to give me a hard time or spread rumors about me?¡± Xiaomai sniffed in contempt. To kidnap her by so-called conventions was simply naive.


    As long as she doesn¡¯t vite the Daqi Laws, she is free to do as she wishes.


    Hearing this, Qiao Changshun couldn¡¯t help but sigh. ¡°You need to change your temper. Keep in mind Sang is in the middle of all this; you wouldn¡¯t want to make things difficult for him.¡±


    ¡°Dad, did you forget what he said today? He said he would protect me. If he can¡¯t, well, hmph.¡± Xiaomai sniffed again.


    She would fulfill her duty as a daughter-inw, but she wouldn¡¯t tolerate undue grievances.


    Seeing her like this, Qiao Changshun heaved another sigh. ¡°In a family, it¡¯s impossible to always clearly divide everything.¡±


    ¡°Those who aren¡¯t blind can see clearly.¡±


    Changshun paused at these words, which seemed to bear some kind of implied meaning¡­


    ¡°Wash up and sleep. Stop overthinking.¡± Xiaomai added, walking into the house.


    Qiao Changshun sat in the courtyard for a while longer, rubbed his face, then stood up and left to wash up.


    While the Qiao Family slept, someone at the Tong Family was having a sleepless night.


    Upon learning that Xiaomai was only bringing two boxes of dowry, the Zhang Family was infuriated. What had they set their sights on?


    They were after Xiaomai¡¯s silver, hoping to live the life they used to lead. But now Xiaomai was only bringing two boxes, it looked as if Xiaomai hade to endure hardship?


    Tong Tiehu, seeing this, snorted coldly. ¡°If you¡¯re not happy, go negotiate with Xiaomai yourself!¡±


    ¡°We could simply call off the wedding if you prefer!¡±


    Upon hearing these words, the Zhang Family¡¯s fury subsided a bit.<div>


    If she went to talk to Xiaomai by herself, would she not expose her feigned illness?


    Xiaomai wouldn¡¯t really being to their home to endure hardship, would she¡­?


    She would surely bring several acres ofnd and some silver, right?


    Thinking this, she directly asked Tong Sang.<div>


    Tong Sang responded without any expression, ¡°Can our family afford a betrothal gift?¡±


    The women of the Tong Family all received a higher betrothal gift than their dowry when they got married. Now that the Tong Family can¡¯t afford a corresponding betrothal gift, why should they expect Xiaomai to bring a hefty dowry?

 Chapter 586: She’s Weak but She’s Right

    Chapter 586: Chapter 586: She¡¯s Weak but She¡¯s Right


    At these words, Zhu Hongyun jumped up as if she had stepped on a nail, her face turned crimson as she retorted, ¡°A family matter, and you call it theft? What did I steal? I just didn¡¯t have a chance to notify you!¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai was speechless.


    This situation strangely reminded her of Kong Yiji from Lun Xun¡¯s novels.


    Is stealing books considered theft? In a schr¡¯s case, stealing books doesn¡¯t count as theft.


    Simrly, for Zhu Hongyun, by her logic, secretly selling prescriptions behind Qiao¡¯s back wouldn¡¯t constitute theft.


    No, it was just that she hadn¡¯t had time to inform her.


    Zhu Hongyun continued ranting, ¡°This is for our mother¡¯s sickness, it¡¯s a gesture of filial piety. You¡¯ve got so much silver, the dowry you got on your wedding day wasparable to a princess¡¯s. Now, you are using me of being a thief for fifty taels?¡±


    She hadn¡¯t seen a princess¡¯s wedding, but to her, the gifts Yang Ye had brought over were more than enough.


    She was truly angry. The guilt she initially felt had been turned into anger by Tong Sang¡¯s aggressive confrontation. This couple was wealthy enough to look down on all of Bailu Town, and yet they were treating her like an used thief over fifty taels, in front of so many people.


    Was it necessary?


    They themselves were richer than a mountain, and now were causing her trouble.


    The couple bullying her alone, it¡¯s too much!


    ¡°I¡¯m being framed as a thief by you two, fine, fine, you don¡¯t consider me as your sister-inw, you don¡¯t consider me as family, you two are ganging up against me. In that case, I¡¯ll leave!¡±


    The angrier she thought about it, Zhu Hongyun said this and stormed towards the door.


    Tong Sang wanted to stop her, but considering the difference in gender and her im of them ganging up against her, he hesitated and didn¡¯t intervene.


    What if he just grabbed her and she decided to lie on the ground iming he had hurt her? That would be troublesome.


    Qiao Xiaomai frowned but didn¡¯t stop her either.


    Zhu Hongyun was acting out just as ording to her pessimistic estimation, making a mess even when she was in the wrong.


    Good, she did not disappoint her expectations one bit.


    Act out, make a scene, the more outrageous, the better.


    As Qiao Xiaomai and Tong Sang didn¡¯t stop her, Shopkeeper Zhou certainly wouldn¡¯t. So, Zhu Hongyun sessfully stormed out of the kitchen, running off in a fury.


    Qiao Xiaomai widened her eyes at Tong Sang.


    Tong Sang hesitated for a moment and said, ¡°She must be going back to her mother¡¯s house.¡±


    The public security in Bailu Town was pretty good, and it was broad daylight. She shouldn¡¯t run into any danger.


    Besides, if he so much as suggested following her, Qiao Xiaomai would certainly be disappointed.


    Oh¡­This was a dilemma.


    ¡°You go and secretly keep an eye on her, to prevent her getting into trouble,¡± Qiao Xiaomai saw his hesitance and spoke up.


    Currently, she and Tong Sang were in the right in this matter.


    But if something happened to Zhu Hongyun, they might end up looking bad.


    Moreover, out of respect for Tong Erng, Tong Sang still considered Zhu Hongyun as family.


    So, it¡¯s better for Tong Sang to discretely follow her.


    Tong Sang was a bit surprised at these words.


    Qiao Xiaomai urged him, ¡°Go ahead, I¡¯ll be here making milk candy.¡±


    Hearing this, Tong Sang took a deep breath, ¡°Alright.¡±


    As soon as the word left his mouth, he turned around and left, even using light-footed martial arts.


    Seeing his swiftly disappearing figure, Qiao Xiaomai turned back to Shopkeeper Zhou, ¡°Shopkeeper Zhou, I¡¯m sorry for the scene.¡±

 Chapter 555: 555: Shopping

    Chapter 555: Shopping


    Having mentioned the county official and the fact that Qiao Xiaomai was indeed marrying at a loss, when Tong Tiehu spoke, the crowd nodded in approval.


    Indeed, Qiao Xiaomai was righteous, willing to marry for the sake of others, whether the Zhang Family lived or died had nothing to do with her.


    Tong Tiehu stood on a high tform, observing the reactions of the crowd. He added, ¡°The Tong Family is not as prosperous as they once were. When Xiaomai and Sang are getting married, we will only invite close friends and rtives. However, anyone who wishes toe, can attend.¡±


    The crowd responded in agreement, but also with a touch of regret, thinking back to the grand celebration of Tong Tiehu¡¯s sixtieth birthday, howe when it¡¯s time for Tong Sang to get married, things seem quite shabby?


    At this point, Tong Tiehu was unconcerned about the people¡¯s sighs. Once he¡¯d said what needed to be said, he let the crowd disperse. There were many things to do today.


    The Tong Family didn¡¯t have many rtives, but the women in the Tong Family all had their own kin. These people needed to be notified.


    They also needed to thoroughly clean the house, arrange Tong Sang¡¯s room. They¡¯d already done so much for Qiao Xiaomai, this needed to be done correctly.


    Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s rtives also needed to be notified. Qiao Changshun harnessed the donkey cart and headed for Zhuang Vige, while Qiao Xiaomai and Tong Sang went to the town to refund the dowry.


    Seeing that it was Qiao Xiaomai who came, the owner of the dowry shop didn¡¯t say much, and promptly refunded the silver, without even asking for the initially agreed damage fee.


    With the silver in hand, as per Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s suggestion, they bought some dry goods and hired a chef from Jiwei Residence.<div>


    Tong Sang said, ¡°Before we get married, we should at least get ourselves new clothes.¡±


    In the countryside, people were not picky. Getting married didn¡¯t necessarily require wedding attire. Usually, they would buy some new clothes, and during the wedding ceremony, the bride would wear a red cloth over her head while the groom would wear a red flower.


    ¡°Just buy clothes to wear on the wedding day.¡± Qiao Xiaomai said.


    She wasn¡¯t too satisfied with the house, she also didn¡¯t want to bring too many things over.


    After all, both she and Tong Sang didn¡¯tck clothes to wear, so there was no need to buy too much.


    Having heard Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s words, Tong Sang looked at her, feeling somewhat dejected, ¡°I¡¯m sorry, I¡¯m letting you down.¡±


    Getting married didn¡¯t improve Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s life, instead it seemed to have regressed.


    And how would it be in the future?


    Qiao Xiaomai was andowner, while he could only rely on hunting and collectively ownednd to buy fields¡­


    It felt as if he¡¯d married a rich woman.


    ¨r(¨s¨Œ¨t)¨q


    ¡°Thinking about being able to be with you openly in the future, these are not grievances, who told me to fall for you.¡± Qiao Xiaomai smiled and patted his shoulder, ¡°Fool.¡±


    On hearing her, Tong Sang tilted his head slightly, how was he a fool?


    ¡°Let¡¯s go, let¡¯s buy some clothes.¡± Qiao Xiaomai pointed in the direction of the Xiangji Fabric Shop.


    In reality, it was okay if the Tong Family¡¯s house was a bit old, she was suddenly hoping that Zhang¡¯s family would make a fuss, and a big one at that.


    That way, she and Tong Sang could justifiably move to the manor.


    The manor she had painstakingly designed and spent quite a bit of silver on would be a waste if no one lived in it.


    Tong Sang looked at Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s face and saw that her smile didn¡¯t seem to be insincere, but he was slightly puzzled.


    ¡°Are you very happy?¡±<div>


    ¡°We¡¯re getting married.¡± Qiao Xiaomai replied, ¡°Just that fact alone is enough to negate everything else.¡±


    Tong Sang looked at her bright face and slowly nodded his head. Yes, they were getting married. This joyous fact could subdue all other unhappiness.


    Forget about it, let¡¯s make the beauty mine first!


    Adjusting their moods, the two went to buy new clothes, only one set each. Then they booked a chef at Jiwei Residence, and bought some supplies needed for the banquet and wedding. They didn¡¯t return until it was dark.@@novelbin@@<div>

 Chapter 588: From Now on, She No Longer Exists in the Tong Family

    Chapter 588: Chapter 588: From Now on, She No Longer Exists in the Tong Family


    ¡°Mom¡¯s illness hasn¡¯t improved, so we can¡¯t split the family as nned. Therefore, I hope grandpa can step in and reason with mom. Yang Ye is still in town.¡±


    She used the incident with Zhu Hongyun to threaten the Zhangs, hoping they would speed up their recovery and split up the family.


    If not, she might start a fight with Yang Ye instead.


    She is indeed narrow-minded.


    ¡°Agreed.¡± Tong Sang had no objections.


    The two of them then headed home in a bullock cart after a day¡¯s work forced by Tong Tiehu on the Tong family. Today, Tong Tiehu let them rest due to his change of heart.


    When Qiao Xiaomai got back home, she hopped off the bullock cart and nced at Tong Tiehu¡¯s room, calling out, ¡°Grandpa? Where¡¯s grandpa?¡±


    ¡°He is at the new house.¡± Li Rou, who was in a good mood, answered from inside her room.


    The shop there only earned a few copper coins a day. Aside from Tong Tiehu who asionally visits, no one else seemed to bother.


    ¡°Sang, go bring Grandpa back,¡± Qiao Xiaomai said to Tong Sang.


    Tong Sang grunted in agreement,s didn¡¯t get off the cart. He put down the basket of ingredients for Buddha¡¯s Temptation and drove the bullock cart to the new house.


    Li Rou noticed an unusual edge in Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s voice, so she stepped out of her room and asked at the doorway, ¡°Xiaomai, what¡¯s wrong?¡±


    ¡°Sang and I went to town and, by chance, saw Zhu Hongyun selling the recipe for braised pork at the kitchen in the Zuixian Building. But instead, Zhu Hongyun used Sang and me of treating her like a thief. She¡¯s gone home now, and I need to have Grandpa settle the matter,¡± Qiao Xiaomai exined the situation.


    Li Rou was shocked upon hearing this.


    Truth be told, while she wanted to take advantage of Qiao Xiaomai and fill her own pockets as much as possible¡­


    She¡¯d never do something like selling a recipe that Qiao Xiaomai had taught her only in the morning.


    And then she used Qiao Xiaomai and Tong Sang of bullying others?


    At that moment, Li Rou realized she had underestimated her second sister-inw. Very well, that¡¯s a strong argument.


    ¡°It¡¯s so irresponsible for Hongyun to do such a thing. Wait until Grandpaes back. He will support you,¡± she said to Qiao Xiaomai.


    ¡°And where¡¯s my second brother?¡± asked Qiao Xiaomai.


    When she and Tong Sang had left for town earlier, Tong Erng and Zhu Hongyun were at home.


    ¡°He¡¯s gone up the mountain to gather firewood.


    ¡°Then I¡¯ll wait for Grandpa to return,¡± Qiao Xiaomai said as she moved towards the kitchen, washing and soaking whatever necessary.


    Whatever Zhu Hongyun was up to, it wouldn¡¯t affect her mood for Buddha¡¯s Temptation.


    Soon, Tong Tiehu came back with a sullen expression. Once he returned home and saw Qiao Xiaomai busily working, he looked remorseful. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Xiaomai.¡±


    It was disappointing that such a troublesome thing happened just three days after they got married.


    ¡°As long as Grandpa doesn¡¯t think that I¡¯m the one bullying Zhu Hongyun, then I¡¯ll feel better,¡± said Qiao Xiaomai.


    ¡°She¡¯s an ignorant and stupid woman. Don¡¯t stoop to her level. Now that she¡¯s gone home, let her stay there. From now on, the Tong family won¡¯t have anything to do with her,¡± said Tong Tiehu, ¡°We can¡¯t let one bad apple spoil the whole barrel.¡±


    Hearing this, Qiao Xiaomai nodded and looked towards Tong Sang.


    Tong Sang gave her an imperceptible nod, implying that he had told Tong Tiehu his side of the story. Tong Tiehu will talk to the Zhang family about this.


    Upon seeing this, Qiao Xiaomai refrained from speaking any further.


    It seems that the Buddha¡¯s Temptation couldn¡¯t be made today. However, yesterday Tong Sang had bought a hind leg of pork, intended for making bacon. She decided to cook it now instead.

 Chapter 557: 557: Getting Married

    Chapter 557: Getting Married


    The following day was Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s big day of joy.


    At the crack of dawn, the master chef from J¨ªw¨¨ij¨± arrived, and the Tong Family¡¯s house was adorned with red silk cloth. The banquet wasn¡¯t set up in the new house this time, due to the fewer guests invited, it was instead arranged in the old house.


    After breakfast, Qiao Xiaomai started to pack her ¡°dowry¡±.


    Themon clothes she wore were put in, and two sets of her own sheets and quilt covers were added to the pack. But after filling up half of two boxes, the remaining half-box was still empty.


    Qiao Changshun, rubbing hisrge hands, was in a dilemma, ¡°How about putting some fabric in?¡±


    The thing they had the most at home was fabric. The Taishang Emperor had gifted Qiao Xiaomai some when he left, all of which were kept in Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s room. Now that the dowry box wasn¡¯t full, the fabric could be used to fill up the box.


    ¡°No need, leave it at home for you and Dami to use. Once mother returns, she can decide what to do with it.¡± Qiao Xiaomai waved her hand and, looking down, she saw Qiao Dami clutching Qiao Changshun¡¯s sleeve. She chuckled, ¡°How about using Dami to fill up the box?¡±


    At this remark, Qiao Dami burst intoughter. However, his chuckle was fleeting, quickly receding into mncholy.


    He didn¡¯t want his sister to get married¡­


    Qiao Xiaomai bent over, pinched his chubby, cheeky face and said with a smile, ¡°I¡¯m just going to stay at Brother Tong¡¯s house. You can visit me anytime you feel like it. We¡¯re still in the same vige.¡±@@novelbin@@<div>


    On hearing this, Qiao Dami pouted reluctantly, nodding his head in agreement.


    Even though they were in the same vige, their home was inevitably short of one person. First, Zhuang Luhe wasn¡¯t at home, and now another member was leaving, which was upsetting¡­


    ¡°Alright, why don¡¯t youe with me and stay at your Brother Tong¡¯s house for a few days?¡± Qiao Xiaomai ruffled his hair.


    ¡°No need, I will keep dadpany. Otherwise, there would only be dad left at home.¡± Qiao Dami shook his head, tightening his grip on Qiao Changshun¡¯s sleeve.


    This provoked a tear in Qiao Changshun¡¯s eyes, this was what family truly meant.


    ¡°What a good little boy.¡± Qiao Xiaomai was touched as well. She pinched his chubby cheek again, ¡°Let¡¯s go out and y.¡±


    ¡°What about this box?¡± Qiao Changshun hurriedly asked as they were leaving.


    ¡°No need to worry about it. Just carry an empty box when the timees.¡± Qiao Xiaomai dismissed the concern casually with a wave of her hand.


    When they reached the courtyard, she let Qiao Dami y under the tree, while she went into the kitchen to prepare Yang Ye¡¯s meal.


    This man was not only her friend but also her future pir of support. She had to take good care of him.


    Soon, Hua Xiaofeng and Zhuang Jia arrived. This time, it wasn¡¯t just the mother and son, but also Zhuang Jia¡¯s wife, who was Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s aunt and her cousins.


    Zhu Cuiying and Wu Yinfeng also eagerly volunteered to help, and Qiao Qinghe paid a visit too.


    While Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s rtives were quite simple, the Tong Family¡¯s were a bit moreplicated.


    As the Tong Family had no rtives other than Tong Liu, the inws of the women in the Tong Family became their closest kin. Given the four women present in the Tong Family, a great deal of rtives showed up.


    Even though the Tong Family had fallen into decline, they were still better off than many of these rtives.


    Furthermore, Tong Sang¡¯s wife-to-be, Qiao Xiaomai, was a girl who had cooked for the Taishang Emperor, and also had a good rtionship with the prince. Therefore, these rtionships had to be maintained as usual despite their fall from grace.


    At noon, someone from the Tong Family arrived.


    The Tong Family had arranged a drum troupe, beating and pounding all the way, causing quite themotion. Tong Sang, dressed in new clothes, sat atop a high horse, a bright red flower pinned on his chest. The corners of his mouth and the arch of his brows brimming with an irrepressible joy.


    He hade to fetch his bride!<div>

 Chapter 590: 590: Gentle Persuasion

    Chapter 590: Chapter 590: Gentle Persuasion


    Seeing this, Tong Xingda yelled, ¡°Only when faced with a crisis, do we see which son can be relied upon. What the hell use are you two as a couple?¡±


    ¡°The eldest son and his wife have been managing the business the entire time. But what about you two? You¡¯ve been around for almost twenty years. What have you done for this family?¡±


    ¡°You haven¡¯t done a damn thing but cause embarrassment, yet you dare to raise your voice at me ¨C pretty cocky of you!¡±


    As Tong Xingda¡¯s voice grew louder, he turned to Tong San Lang, ¡°San Lang, beat him for me! A good beating will straighten him out!¡±


    He was busy eating meat and could not get up.


    Tong San Lang stood up as he heard the word and walked over to Tong Er Lang. Seeing Tong Er Lang subtly shrink back, he shook his head lightly, grabbed Tong Er Lang¡¯s arm and said, ¡°Second brother, let¡¯s walk outside.¡±


    ¡°What are you doing?¡± Tong Er Lang, akin to being stung by a scorpion, fiercely broke his grip and stepped back several steps.


    Tong San Lang, seeing this, furrowed his brows, forcibly grabbed Tong Er Lang¡¯s arm, and pulled him out of the house.


    Tong Er Lang screamed and struggled all the way.


    Qiao Xiaomai watched this scene and lowered her head to continue gnawing on her bone.<div>


    Tong Tiehu looked at her and somewhat embarrassedly said, ¡°I spoiled him at an early age.¡±


    Truth to be told, he was not a good father or grandfather. He was simple and brutal in his deeds, and he didn¡¯t do a good job teaching either Tong Xingda or his sons. Only Tong San Lang turned out alright, but the credit should go to Deng Chun.


    These fools pulling stupid stunts now had really tarnished his reputation.


    Upon hearing this, Qiao Xiaomai smiled, dimples showing on her cheeks, ¡°They¡¯re not bad at heart.¡±


    At her words, Tong Tiehu sighed, ¡°I am wrong in my judgement.¡±


    When it came to choosing wives for himself or his sons and grandsons, he only chose the women who seemed better than the Tong family and had a good reputation.


    But now, the reality told him, these women were all wearing masks in the past.


    ¡°Things will improve.¡± said Qiao Xiaomai.


    Tong Tiehu sighed again at her words.


    Improve?


    Even if things do get better, thinking about the recent incidents would always leave a sour taste. These memories could never be erased.


    It¡¯s probably best to separate the households early, so these people will not continue to harm Qiao Xiaomai and Tong San Lang.


    The courtyard fell silent. Li Rou, sitting at her doorway, and Qian Shi, simrly sitting under a tree, seemed not to hear the conversation between Qiao Xiaomai and Tong Tiehu. They were eating the meat cooked by Qiao Xiaomai and couldn¡¯t voice their thoughts.


    After a while, just as Qiao Xiaomai finished gnawing the bones in her bowl and was ready to drink some meat soup, Tong San Lang and Tong Er Lang returned together.


    Tong San Lang looked calm.


    Tong Er Lang was deted, but his face showed no signs of having been beaten. Passing by the door and seeing the bowl he had broken earlier, he squatted down to pick up the pieces.


    After throwing the pieces away, he returned to the kitchen, got a bowl, and continued eating.


    Thus, the meal ended rather peacefully.


    After dinner, Tong San Lang went to do the dishes and then to heat the water.<div>


    After both he and Qiao Xiaomai had bathed, it was still early. The two of them usually had a secret rendezvouste at night. At this hour, of course, they didn¡¯t feel sleepy.


    But the outrageous activities ofst night couldn¡¯t go on. ording to Qiao Xiaomai, they had to abstain for at least another week before resuming this pleasurable activity.


    Tong San Lang ¡°¡­¡±


    He had just tasted the sweetness, but because his own body couldn¡¯t handle it, he had to abstain¡­<div>


    If this got out, he¡¯d be so embarrassed that he¡¯d want to crawl into a hole.


    It was a huge blow to a man¡¯s pride!

 Chapter 591: 591: A Beating is Enough

    Chapter 591: Chapter 591: A Beating is Enough


    ¡°What kind of man are you? You¡¯re only seventeen, just a teenager.¡± Qiao Xiaomai patted him, ¡°You¡¯re still growing, doing too much isn¡¯t good for you.¡±


    Tong Sang, ¡°¡­I¡¯m tall enough already.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai had to stand on her tiptoes to kiss him.


    ¡°Anyway, hold it in!¡± Qiao Xiaomai patted himfortingly on the chest, changing the subject, ¡°What did you say to second brother?¡±


    Hearing this, Tong Sang, somewhat reluctantly, also groped her buttocks before answering, ¡°I told him to back down. After all, this matter is second sister-inw¡¯s fault. After your and grandfather¡¯s anger dies down a bit, we¡¯ll bring second sister-inw back.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai. ¡°¡­Is that how you persuaded him?¡±


    ¡°He loves second sister-inw like I love you. How else can I say it?¡± As Tong Sang said this, seeing her eyes wide open, he couldn¡¯t help but lean in to lightly kiss her lips, ¡°I remember still how desperate second brother was to marry her when grandfather didn¡¯t approve of their marriage.¡±


    Imagining the spectacle of Tong Eng throwing a tantrum, Qiao Xiaomai rolled her eyes, ¡°So you would only notice I¡¯m not home after you finish a whole bowl of bones?¡±


    At that, Tong Sang raised an eyebrow, ¡°Second brother is a bit absent-minded.¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s simply thoughtless.¡±<div>


    What to do if one is thoughtless and disobedient?


    A few beatings should do the trick.


    And you¡¯re actually coaxing and persuading him, who in the world is the older brother and who¡¯s the younger one?


    Sensing Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s dissatisfaction, Tong Sang couldn¡¯t help but take her hand, ¡°Change takes time.¡±


    ¡°Alright, alright. I like you, you make sense. Let¡¯s sleep now, we have to go back tomorrow.¡± Qiao Xiaomai attempted to sit up to blow out the candle.


    Seeing this, Tong Sang hugged her with one arm, and with the other arm, he blew out a gust of wind towards the candle, then he rolled over, cing Xiaomai inside, ¡°I like you, what you say makes sense too.¡±


    Hearing this, Qiao Xiaomai rolled her eyes in the dark, ¡°What great logic.¡±


    At that, Tong Sang chuckled, rubbing his forehead against hers lightly, ¡°I love you, sleep.¡±


    He didn¡¯t really have any feelings for Zhu Hongyun, so he was able to confront her at the Zuixian Building in front of many people.


    But his second brother, Tong Eng was very important to him, he wanted to change his ways, even if the chances were slim, he wanted to give it a try.


    However, his actions would definitely make Qiao Xiaomai feel wronged.


    Ah¡­ In other aspects, he needs to love her more.


    The next day, Qiao Xiaomai got up before dawn, as she nned to make Buddha Jumps Over the Wall, which would take some time.


    When she got up, naturally Tong Sang got up too. After Xiaomai carefully examined hisplexion, finding everything in order, she agreed to let him help with the cooking.


    So when the Tong family woke up, the rich aroma of food wafted through the courtyard again.


    Tong Eng pursed his lips, did his best to ignore the mncholy in his heart, and quickly got up to wash and dress.


    First fill the stomach before thinking about anything else!


    After breakfast, Qiao Xiaomai and Tong Sang carried half a pot of Buddha Jumps Over the Wall and returned home. The beans at home were ready to be culled, so Tong Dng harnessed the ox cart to take them to town, while Tong Eng tactfully grabbed a rope and continued up the mountain.


    Ah, yesterday¡¯s firewood wasn¡¯t enough for breakfast, so Tong Sang had to borrow from the neighbors, today he needed to gather more.<div>


    Tong Tiehu had Li Rou and the Qian family look after the shop, so he himself carried a bench and sat outside the door of Zhang¡¯s room.


    ¡°You know about what happened with second son¡¯s wife yesterday. Let¡¯s not bring that up now, just focus on getting better, then we can separate households.¡±

 Chapter 560: Here Comes Trouble

    Chapter 560: Here Comes Trouble


    Yang Ye pointed out the procession behind him, an arrogant smile on his handsome face. ¡°See this? This is a dowryid out in the style of a nobledy from the Capital City. I¡¯ve gathered everything from Bailu Town and Huai¡¯an County to put together this marvelous gift.¡±


    He deliberately stressed the words ¡®marvelous gift¡¯.


    No other way about it, everyone could clearly see this was aplete dowry set; bed, tables, utensils, boxes and cages, it had everything.


    But he and Qiao Xiaomai were only friends. Hence, he could only disguise this dowry as a simple gift.


    With so many people watching, he didn¡¯t believe Qiao Xiaomai would reject him outright.


    Qiao Xiaomai nced over at the carriage procession. This scenario felt eerily simr to Yang Wang¡¯s previous attempts to curry favor byvishing her with gifts.


    But their motives were different. Yang Wang¡¯s gifts were meant to win her over to him.


    Meanwhile, for some unknown reason, Yang Ye was purposely stirring up trouble for her and Tong Sang.


    The betrothal between her and Tong Sang was truly mystifying.


    Initially, everyone had seen the interactions between her and Tong Sang. Yet, in the end, they ended up getting together under the guise of an urgent marriage proposal, and with the Tong Family rushing the preparations, her dowry looked rather shabby. Given how she was the vige¡¯s most sought-after maiden, and came from a well-to-do family in Anping Vige, such a wedding only raised eyebrows.


    It only served to further confuse everyone around, not to mention her and Tong Sang.


    She felt disgruntled, and Tong Sang too was just as unsettled.


    Now, Yang Ye had chosen to parade an extravagant dowry, which only added to her headache. How would others perceive her rtionship with Yang Ye?


    What would Tong Sang think?


    Moreover, what was Yang Ye trying to aplish by causing such a spectacle?


    She took a deep breath and said, ¡°Your Highness, thank you. Over here please.¡± She deflected. ¡°Our house is rather crowded right now. We do not have a ce for your gift. I would appreciate it if you could have this sent to my house first.¡±


    She also emphasized the words ¡®your gift¡¯.


    ¡°Alright!¡± Yang Ye motioned with his hand and quickly spotted Qiao Changshun in the crowd. ¡°Your father can guide the men to deliver these items.¡±


    He theatrically looked up at the sun and then jumped down from his carriage. ¡°Oh dear, it¡¯s nearly noon. You and Sang should proceed with the formal bows.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai smiled and motioned towards the courtyard entrance, ¡°Your Highness, after you.¡±


    ¡°No, no, no, you and Sang are the newlyweds. You should be the first to enter. I¡¯ll follow you in,¡± Yang Ye cheerily replied.


    Hearing this, Qiao Xiaomai decisively waved her hand, ¡°Musicians, please start ying.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Yang Ye let out a heartyugh and started pping. ¡°Yes, start ying, everyone!¡±


    Then, the musicians began to y, and the courtyard was filled with joy and celebration once again.


    Qiao Xiaomai turned to look at Tong Sang.


    @@novelbin@@


    He happened to be looking at her as well.


    She gave a slight smile, revealing a small dimple on each side of her mouth. ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡±


    Tong Sang nodded, and the two of them, each holding a big red flower, walked towards the hall.


    Next, it was time for the ceremony of bowing to heaven and earth.


    After the couple bowed to heaven and earth, and then to the ancestors, the turn came for the parents. However, because Madam Zhang was ill in bed and could not attend, Tong Xingda and Tong Tiehu took her ce. It was not in adhering to traditions but country folks were more inclined to go with what made them happy.


    Then came the couple¡¯s bow to each other, followed by the bridal chamber ritual.


    The bridal chamber part was omitted for the time being. Country brides weren¡¯t that delicate. Usually, they just had a symbolic seat in the bridal chamber and once lunch was over, they resumed their usual work.


    However, today, because of a distinguished guest, Qiao Xiaomai didn¡¯t even have a moment¡¯s rest. After the ceremony, she didn¡¯t go with Tong Sang to visit Madam Zhang. Instead, she pushed Tong Sang and said, ¡°Go and get the meal prepared for His Highness.¡±

 Chapter 561: How Much Silver Was Spent

    Chapter 561: How Much Silver Was Spent


    Qiao Xiaomai had already prepared food for Yang Ye and ced it in her kitchen. The rooms in the old courtyard of the Tong family were not asfortable as the new ones, so Yang¡¯s banquet was set up in Tong Sang¡¯s room.


    ¡°Wow, is this your new room with Tong Sang?!¡±


    @@novelbin@@


    Yang Ye exaggeratedly eximed the moment he stepped through the door.


    ¡°It¡¯s akin to a slum!¡±


    Following behind him, Qiao Xiaomai silently curled her lip at hisment, ¡°My lord, today is a day of great joy for Sang and I, could you please mind your words?¡±


    ¡°Oh wow, you¡¯ve even dropped the ¡®brother¡¯ from ¡®Brother Sang¡¯, just calling him ¡®Sang¡¯ gives me the goosebumps.¡± Yang Ye dramatically rubbed his arm and took a seat in front of Tong Sang¡¯s desk.


    Qiao Xiaomai nced at the yard outside.


    The tables were arranged and the guests had all been seated. The chef from the local diner, Jiwaiju, had instructed the young waiter to start serving dishes.


    Tong Tiehu was ying the host in the courtyard, and given that everyone else was either seated or upied, nobody was paying any attention to their side of the house. She pressed her lips together, turned to look at Yang Ye, and asked in a low voice, ¡°My lord, how many silver taels did that all cost?¡±


    Yang Ye was flipping through the books on the desk when he heard her question. He cast her a sideways nce, ¡°Why?¡±


    ¡°To pay you back, of course! My marriage was arranged in such haste that I didn¡¯t even have time to get the essential documents sorted, let alone prepare a dowry. Thank you for going through all the trouble to arrange everything for me, I need to repay you, I can¡¯t let you bear all the expenses and workload!¡±


    At her words, Yang Ye raised an eyebrow, clicking his tongue lightly, ¡°Miss Qiao Xiaomai, it was gifted dowry, understand?¡±


    ¡°No, no, no, it was a dowry that you took time out of your busy schedule to arrange for me, I am truly grateful. I absolutely have to pay you back this silver.¡± Xiaomai insisted unwaveringly.


    If she were to ept this extravagant gift lightly, Tong Sang would surely be discontent for quite some time.


    ¡°It¡¯s just a bit of silver, why do you want to make it so clear-cut?¡± An unhappy expression crossed Yang Ye¡¯s handsome face.


    ¡°Of course, you should know my principles, my Lord. Even if it¡¯s a congrattory gift, it shouldn¡¯t be toovish. Your additional dowry ¨C I really can¡¯t ept that.¡± A sincere look spread across Xiaomai¡¯s face.


    Hearing this, Yang Ye snorted, ¡°Are you worried Tong Sang will be unhappy?¡±


    ¡°What does he have to be unhappy about? The dowry should be my responsibility, it has nothing to do with him.¡±


    ¡°Hmph, it sounds nice.¡± Yang Ye gave her a skeptical look, raising a hand to point around the room, ¡°You¡¯ve witnessed my Grandpa Emperor¡¯s restrained opulence, and you¡¯ve seen more of the world than a simple country girl. Why are youpromising so much?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m notpromising myself. As long as I have Tong Sang, even a broken grass hut can feel warm and inviting. I¡¯m perfectly content living here.¡±


    Yang Ye, ¡°¡­¡±


    Seeing Xiaomai so serious about it, he couldn¡¯t help but raise a hand to rub his face.


    What a fool!


    Why couldn¡¯t he ever meet such a fool?


    Being around Xiaomai made him seriously consider marrying a young princess to tease and y with every day¡­


    ¡°My lord, how much silver did this dowry cost in the end?¡± Seeing Yang Ye fall silent, Xiaomai asked again.


    Yang Ye waved a finger in the air, ¡°Under ten thousand taels.¡±


    The good things avable in Huai¡¯an County and Bailu Town were limited, but he had managed to cote the very best of everything for his gift.

 Chapter 562: 562 Spreading Dog Food Chaos

    Chapter 562: Chapter 562 Spreading Dog Food Chaos


    Ten thousand taels.


    Upon hearing these three words, Qiao Xiaomai couldn¡¯t help but gasp.


    This figure would definitely bankrupt her.


    Seeing her expression, Yang Ye snorted, ¡°You better remember this ten-thousand-tael debt. Whatever I take from you in the future, just calcte its market value, no need to give me actual silver.¡±


    ¡°No way, the things given belong to our interaction, how can I take silver? For example, I give you chili peppers and you give me watermelons, should I demand silver for that?¡± asked Qiao Xiaomai.


    Upon hearing this, Yang Ye waved his hand impatiently, ¡°Then you can pay me back when you have the silver.¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡± Qiao Xiaomai nodded.


    Just then, Tong Tiehu walked into the room, followed by Tong Sang with food boxes and Yang Ye¡¯s guard.


    Qiao Xiaomai weed them over, her eyes circling the fourrge food boxes before she broke into a smile, ¡°Come on in.¡±


    The table in the room was already set up, all they needed to do was take out the food from the boxes.<div>


    Yang Ye, looking somewhat irritated, saw Tong Sang ready to leave after setting up the food, called for him to stay, ¡°Sang, you stay and drink with me at the wedding banquet, let your grandfather attend to the guests.¡±


    Upon Yang Ye¡¯smand, Tong Sang naturally stayed put.


    Once they took their seats at the table, he opened a pot of wine, ¡°This wine is just okay, hope you aren¡¯t bothered, your highness.¡±


    ¡°Then let¡¯s just have one ss, as a token of goodwill.¡± Yang Ye responded.


    Seeing Tong Sang pour three sses of wine, he lifted his own ss, ¡°Come on, down the hatch.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai and Tong Sang raised their sses, the three cups met in mid-air. After downing his entire drink in one go, Yang Ye quickly picked up a piece of watermelon with his chopsticks. This wine indeed, wasn¡¯t of great quality.


    ¡°Speaking of which, Sang, that additional dowry was a lie. The furnishings were purchased on behalf of Miss Qiao and they cost ten thousand taels!¡± Yang Ye swallowed the watermelon in his mouth and opened up jovially.


    Upon hearing this, Tong Sang nced at Qiao Xiaomai.


    Qiao Xiaomai winked, ¡°Yes, I used his highness¡¯ name to send it, so no one would dare covet it. Moreover, I n to take everything to the manor. Once the manor is refurbished, let¡¯s all move in.¡±


    Tong Sang, ¡°¡­I feel like I¡¯ve just mooched off you, myndy.¡±


    ¡°Then feel free to enjoy being taken care of by me.¡± Qiao Xiaomaiughed.


    She wouldn¡¯t mind providing for Tong Sang, this fool. What¡¯s his is hers, why distinguish so clearly?


    Always bearing the weight of the world with a man¡¯s dignity, there¡¯s no need, really no need.


    Tong Sang smirked, ¡°That won¡¯t happen.¡±


    ¡°Why not? My manor is a gold mine. You¡¯ll earn a lot working with me. I¡¯ll make money and provide for the family, you just have to be pretty.¡± said Qiao Xiaomai.


    As soon as she finished speaking, Yang Ye couldn¡¯t help but put down his chopsticks and p the table, shouting, ¡°Can¡¯t we have a peaceful meal?! The dinner fromst night is about toe back up because of you two!¡±


    Showing off their love, not caring whether he wants to see or not!


    Seeing his anger, Qiao Xiaomai quickly pushed her te towards him, ¡°Your highness, try this.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s this?¡± Yang Ye frowned.<div>


    ¡°It¡¯s a cicada nymph, I had Sang catch it just for you, it¡¯s delicious.¡± Qiao Xiaomai exined with a smile.@@novelbin@@


    She had removed the head of the nymph, leaving only the meat of the back and the belly, which Yang Ye couldn¡¯t recognize for a moment.


    Yang Ye widened his eyes, ¡°Huh?¡±


    His grandpa emperor had eaten this before, but he, despite his noble status, hadn¡¯t had the chance to try it yet.<div>


    Unable to argue with the newlyweds any longer, he picked up his chopsticks and began to taste the cicada nymph.


    Seeing this, Qiao Xiaomai nced at Tong Sang.


    Tong Sang also happened to look at her, and the twoughed simultaneously.

 Chapter 595: Lowering the Requirements

    Chapter 595: Chapter 595: Lowering the Requirements


    After dropping these words, Tong Tiehu stood up with a face ashen, his hands behind his back, walked towards the door.


    Zhang Family was lost for words.


    She was suggesting that Zhang Family was seriously ill and should be moved to their new house?


    Zhang Family felt like she had a lump of old blood stuck in her throat, was this really necessary?


    Her demands weren¡¯t at all excessive!


    Imagining herself being relocated to the new house, she couldn¡¯t help but jump off the bed to chase after Tong Tiehu, the scene was too horrifying! Pretending to be ill at home was hard enough, if she were moved to the new house, it would be unbearable!


    ¡°Father, father! Listen to me, everything is negotiable!¡± She didn¡¯t even bother to put on her shoes, she moved to chase after Tong Tiehu.


    Tong Tiehu had just left the hall when he heard her cries, turned around irritably, ¡°What do you want to discuss?¡±


    ¡°One tael silver a month as support money, and you have to give the recipe. If a house can¡¯t be bought in town, then setting up a small stall will do, right?!¡± In times of crisis, the brain always spins faster, like the situation with Zhang Family, as soon as Tong Tiehu asked, she immediately had a solution in mind.


    Although this condition was far from what was initially proposed, as long as it didn¡¯t involve farming or fieldwork, everything was negotiable!


    Tong Tiehu raised his eyebrows slightly at her words, ¡°Setting up a stall for business?¡±


    ¡°Yes, setting up a stall for business!¡± Zhang Family nodded eagerly, ¡°This type of work involves being exposed to the wind and rain, can be considered tough. That shouldn¡¯t be against the decree, right?¡±


    Tong Tiehu squinted his eyes, seriously considering the feasibility of her proposal.


    Setting up a stall for business, huh¡­


    Seeing him hesitate even to ept such a low condition, Zhang Family quickly added, ¡°Father, I don¡¯t demand to earn a tael a day, as long as Xiaomai cane up with a unique and profitable vor, earning a few dozen wen each day will do for me!¡±


    From a tael to a few dozen wen, from twenty taels to one tael, there was no need for funds to buy a house anymore, this was a significant concession on her part.


    ¡°I need to ask Xiaomai about this, if she doesn¡¯t have a suitable recipe for you, I can¡¯t do anything about it.¡± Tong Tiehu said.


    Zhang Family was previously so discontented, hence he decided to make her feel anxious for a bit.


    ¡°Go back to your room and lie down, so you don¡¯t expose yourself.¡± Tong Tiehu threw these words and stepped out of the door.


    Pah, damn woman!


    Tong Tiehu left, leaving Zhang Family alone in the house, anxious and restless.


    Let¡¯s move on to Qiao Xiaomai and Tong Sang.


    They returned to the Qiao Family quite early. At that time, Qiao Changshun had not yet started work in the fields, but father and son had already had their breakfast.


    Without dy Qiao Xiaomai greeted them, ¡°Come,e, two bowls of Buddha Jumps Over the Wall for each.¡±


    With Qiao Changshun¡¯s skills, it was no problem to have two bowls of Buddha Jumps Over the Wall after a meal.


    Qiao Changshun and Qiao Dami were both delighted to see the young couple. Qiao Changshun originally thought they would onlye over at noon, but they arrived earlier than expected.


    He carefully observed Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s face. Seeing her rosy cheeks and radiantplexion, the worry in his heart was relieved.


    Marriage for women is like reincarnation, whether it¡¯s good or bad, it¡¯s visible from their face.


    After enjoying their bowls of Buddha Jumps Over the Wall, Tong Sang suggested going up the mountain to cut trees to build a shed. Yang Ye¡¯s pile of stuff was still lying around in the courtyard.


    So, all four of them went up the mountain. After bustling around for a morning, a makeshift shed was put up.


    At noon, Qiao Xiaomai cooked. After the meal, all four of them rode the ox cart to check on the manor.


    The wall around the manor had been built, and Qiao Xiaomai and Tong Sang¡¯s courtyard was beginning to take shape. The rest of the ce could wait. The priority at the moment was this courtyard, Qiao Xiaomai was eager to move out of the Tong family house.

 Chapter 564: 564: Stuck in the Heart

    Chapter 564: Stuck in the Heart@@novelbin@@


    When Li Rou¡¯s mother saw her daughter¡¯s behavior, she froze for a moment before quickly walking over, ¡°Xiaorou, what are you doing?¡±


    ¡°Nothing. Our house is poor, we have to change the old habits.¡± Li Rou stood by the chopping block and looked at the three people in front of her, speaking in an apathetic tone, ¡°The wedding feast is over. You all should go home. Our family needs the food.¡±


    ¡°Oh my, what nonsense about your house this and your house that, I am your mother!¡± Li Rou¡¯s mother lightly poked Li Rou¡¯s shoulder, somewhat forcefully and then brushed Li Rou aside with a strong and swift move of her arm.


    She took out a cloth bag from her arms and swiftly stuffed the steamed buns and pork that Zhu Hongyun¡¯s mother had just packed into her own bag. ¡°You silly girl, didn¡¯t you see that the prince came today? Our fortunes can change in a sneeze, without you lifting a finger.¡±


    ¡°After raising you all these years, I can¡¯t even have a piece of meat?¡±


    She scolded while lifting the cloth bag onto her shoulder. Then, with her other hand, she pulled Li Rou to the side, all the while smiling apologetically at Zhu Hongyun¡¯s mother, ¡°My dear sister, don¡¯t pay any attention to this silly girl. Take, we each get a share.¡±


    Hearing these words, Zhu Hongyun¡¯s mother gave a heavy humph, rolled her eyes, rushed to the chopping block, picked up the knife, and chopped off another piece of meat.


    Zhang¡¯s mother saw this and moved over as well. The two of them, in silent agreement, took their own portions.


    Just then, another figure appeared at the kitchen door. It was a rtive from the Qian family, the granddaughter of Qian¡¯s brother, a shy thirteen-year-old girl. Seeing everyone with their bags, she shyly smiled and stuffed the remaining buns and meat into her own bag.


    All four families took their share. Satisfied, they left the kitchen with beaming smiles, greeting the people of the Tong family before climbing onto their respective donkey or ox carts, and headed home.<div>


    Soon, only the Tong family remained in the courtyard.


    Li Rou looked bitterly at the empty courtyard and went inside to talk to Zhang¡¯s mother.


    After hearing about what had just taken ce, Zhang¡¯s mother also felt angry and stifled.


    Speaking frankly, Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s dowry contained only two boxes. Would they dare to touch what Yang Ye had brought over?


    Even if you gave them ten times the courage, they wouldn¡¯t dare!


    Others only knew that they had now married Qiao Xiaomai, a woman who could build good rtions with the prince. But the difficulties they had gone through were known only to them!


    Taking a deep breath, Zhang¡¯s mother said, ¡°Let Qiao Xiaomai take care of dinner tonight.¡±


    A new bride must cook several meals to show off her skills to her husband¡¯s family. Afterwards, the cooking responsibilities usually rotate among the family members.


    But whether the Tong family will separate in the future and how then the cooking duties will be divided is a discussion for another day. For now, the meals for these next few days should be handled by Qiao Xiaomai.


    ¡°Where are Qiao Xiaomai and the third son?¡± Zhang asked again.


    ¡°They have returned to the Qiao¡¯s house.¡±


    Unable to help herself, Zhang pped the pillow angrily. Damn it, those two were supposed to bring good fortune to the newly married couple. But now the wedding feast had ended and the guests had dispersed without her having seen the newlyweds.


    ¡°My chest hurts, you may leave, I need to rest.¡± Zhang rubbed her chest.


    She was actually having chest pains now.


    Out of anger.


    Li Rou sighed, stood up, and left the room.


    She then went to the kitchen.


    The steamed buns and pork had beenpletely divided. Only the usual stuff was left in there. She went then to Third Master Tong¡¯s room. The two boxes that Qiao Xiaomai had brought were ced on the stool at the head of the bed. From the rxed demeanors of Qiao Changfu and Qiao Changkang, it could be deduced that there was nothing valuable in these boxes.


    Qiao Xiaomai didn¡¯t bring anything from what Yang Ye had given her, to this home.<div>


    After all the efforts to marry Qiao Xiaomai into the Tong family-


    Why did she still feel so suffocated?

 Chapter 597: 597: As Children, We Always Owe Our Parents

    Chapter 597: Chapter 597: As Children, We Always Owe Our Parents


    Tong Tiehu didn¡¯t expect Qiao Xiaomai to actually say that the Zhang Family¡¯s demands were reasonable. He was clearly taken aback, ¡°Don¡¯t you think your mother¡¯s demands are excessive?¡±


    ¡°Not excessive. She is the mother of Sang, and that¡¯s enough.¡±


    Madam Zhang had never abused Tong Sang. On the contrary, being the younger son, both Madam Zhang and Tong Xingda doted on him. They had never reprimanded him as he grew up.


    Of course, it was also because Tong Sang had always been a well-behaved boy.


    Regardless, before Tong Sang ever got involved with her, Madam Zhang truly hadn¡¯t done anything to wrong him. She fulfilled her responsibilities as Tong Sang¡¯s mother.


    So regardless of what Madam Zhang might pull in the future, considering their seventeen years of rapport, she was willing to hand over the silver.


    She was thankful to Madam Zhang for giving birth to and raising Tong Sang.


    Moreover, from another perspective, this was also a good thing.


    Her Tong Sang was priceless.


    But now, with just over a thousand taels of silver, she could guarantee his rtionship with his birth mother, Madam Zhang. This was just too inexpensive.<div>


    It was just over a thousand taels of silver. Even if she didn¡¯t have it now, she would find ways to earn it.


    Now that she has put forth this silver, she stands on the moral high ground. Even if Madam Zhang caused trouble in the future, she would be in the right. Even if the dispute reached the emperor, she wouldn¡¯t be at a disadvantage.


    ¡°But you¡¯re also in debt, and considering her current situation, she¡¯s not even treating Sang as her son.¡± Tong Tiehu said.


    ¡°Debt is not a problem. The fact that she once saw Sang as her son is enough. She deserves this silver.¡± Qiao Xiaomai replied.


    Hearing this, Tong Tiehu stared at her, his emotionsplex.


    After a while, he sighed and asked, ¡°Don¡¯t you feel you¡¯re losing out? After all, you and her share no emotional bond.¡±


    ¡°Not at all. She gave birth to and raised Sang. So far, Sang hasn¡¯t been able to repay her in any way. As children, we¡¯re always in debt to our parents. I¡¯m willingly giving this silver.¡±


    After all, she and Tong Sang are the younger generation. No matter the world, showing filial piety is a must.


    As forter, let¡¯s deal with it when the timees.


    Anyway, her style has always been straightforward ¨C she won¡¯t refuse what should be taken, but if someone crosses the line, she will definitely fight back.


    ¡°You¡¯re a good child.¡± Tong Tiehu heaved a deep sigh.


    She¡¯s thoughtful and loyal, it¡¯sforting to see such youngsters.


    Qiao Xiaomai smiled and didn¡¯t say anything.


    ¡°So, what recipes are you nning to give her?¡± Tong Tiehu asked.


    ¡°Hmm¡­Sour and Spicy Fish? Cold noodles? Stinky Tofu? Fried Tofu?¡±


    All these are snacks, which can¡¯t earn even a tael silver per day, but if sold in town, they should be able to make dozens of coins.


    However, if one is diligent with Fried Tofu, they could earn much more as it goes for one tael silver per pound.


    Tong Tiehu frowned, thought for a while, then asked, ¡°Sour and Spicy Fish?¡±


    ¡°She can make it at home, bring it to town and sell it by spoonful. As for the pickles, I¡¯ve made two jars at home. She can take them.¡±<div>


    The local people didn¡¯t know how to make pickles, so she made two small jars for use as side dishes, but Qiao Changshun and Qiao Dami, father and son, didn¡¯t like it.


    ¡°For cold noodles, it¡¯s also simple. Prepare all the ingredients at home, then sell them directly in town. If she only sells these two dishes, she won¡¯t need charcoal fire, making setting up a stall a lot easier.¡± Qiao Xiaomai said.


    ¡°Then let¡¯s start with these two.¡±


    ¡°When winteres, cold noodles won¡¯t sell well, then she can sell Fried Tofu and Stinky Tofu.¡± If Stinky Tofu is not eptable, then sell Fried Tofu. After all, there are many kinds of deep-fried snacks in the future.<div>


    In sum, if she could legitimately separate herself from Madam Zhang through these dishes, she really wouldn¡¯t mind or feel heartache.


    [Giving more now will facilitate standing tall and firm in the future¡­]

 Chapter 566: 566: Smoked Out

    Chapter 566: Smoked Out


    ¡°Busy.¡± Tong Sang replied.


    At this time, Qiao Xiaomai also entered, and when she saw Madam Zhang¡¯s appearance, she was shocked.


    Madam Zhang had indeed lost some weight, and paired with her haggard, sallow face, dishevelled hair, and the strange smell in the room, she truly looked gravely ill.


    ¡°Mom.¡± Qiao Xiaomai called out, ¡°How are you feeling?¡±


    Upon hearing this, Madam Zhang coughed several times, then coughed up some old phlegm from her throat, and hurriedly waved her hand at Qiao Xiaomai, pointing excitedly at the chamber pot ced at the foot of the bed.


    Being bedridden, she rarely left the room and even took care of bodily functions within the room.@@novelbin@@


    Qiao Xiaomai pretended not to understand, and quietly poked Tong Sang¡¯s waist behind her.


    Tong Sang stepped forward, picked up the chamber pot, and brought it to Madam Zhang, ¡°Mom, don¡¯t get too excited, speak your mind.¡±


    He opened the lid of the chamber pot, and a foul smell instantly filled the room.


    Mixed with the weird smell in the room, it made one want to vomit upon smelling it.<div>


    Feeling nauseous, Qiao Xiaomai covered her mouth and ran out.


    Damn it!


    Was it necessary for Madam Zhang to be so dedicated to her act of being ill!


    Tong Tiehu was standing in the courtyard, and when he saw her suddenly running out, he asked with concern, ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡±


    ¡°Nothing, nothing.¡± Qiao Xiaomai waved her hand.


    The dry heaving made her eyes water, seeing her tearful, Tong Tiehu frowned, about to speak.


    Li Rou came out of her room, and seeing Qiao Xiaomai, a smile immediately appeared on her face. ¡°Xiaomai, it¡¯s your turn to cook dinner today, and it¡¯s gettingte. You should start now, otherwise we¡¯ll have to light themp.¡±


    ¡°Alright.¡± Hearing this, Qiao Xiaomai quickly nodded.


    As long as she didn¡¯t have to be near Madam Zhang, everything would be fine!


    She didn¡¯t bother unloading the things from the ox cart and immediately washed her hands and entered the kitchen.


    The Tong family¡¯s kitchen was simr to the Qiao family¡¯s, with two stoves, one for cooking rice and the other for stir-frying dishes, and the various seasonings were quiteplete.


    After quickly looking over the items in the kitchen and realizing there were no steamed buns, she stood at the kitchen door and asked Tong Tiehu in the courtyard, ¡°Grandfather, we¡¯re out of steamed buns. Should I make pancakes or roll out noodles?¡±


    ¡°Roll out noodles.¡± Li Rou, who was ying with her son and daughter in the courtyard, answered before Tong Tiehu, ¡°If it¡¯s pancakes, Xiaoxing and Xiaoyue won¡¯t be able to bite them.¡±


    Xiaoxing and Xiaoyue were Li Rou¡¯s twin children. The older one, a boy, was named Xiaoxing, and was four years old this year. The younger one, Xiaoyue, was not yet three years old.


    Hearing this, Qiao Xiaomai smiled, ¡°Then noodles it is. Soup noodles or dry noodles?¡±


    ¡°Dry noodles. Just that there¡¯s only a bit of pork leftover from lunchtime, which was taken away by our rtives, and now all we have at home are some vegetables.¡± Li Rou added. The subtext was clear: if you can¡¯t stand how poor we are, then bring some stuff from your own home.


    Hearing this, the smile on Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s face didn¡¯t change, ¡°In the summer when it¡¯s hot, we should eat lighter meals.¡±


    After saying this, she turned and went back to the kitchen, then started to knead the dough.


    Li Rou, hearing these words, held Tong Xiaoyue closer in her arms and said nothing.<div>


    Just as Qiao Xiaomai poured the flour into the wooden basin, Tong Sang walked in. ¡°Shall I prepare the vegetables?¡± he asked.


    ¡°Have you washed your hands?¡± Qiao Xiaomai asked.


    ¡°I did, I washed them several times with soap beans.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s good, you can help preparing the vegetables and tending the fire.¡± Qiao Xiaomai agreed for him to help.<div>


    Madam Zhang wasn¡¯t sick, but she still ordered her around. Hmm, she had bad intentions.


    Feeling guilty, Tong Sang went to the vegetable garden and picked four green eggnts and a handful of beans, then sat by the well to wash and cut them.


    Bringing the cut vegetables into the kitchen, he saw that Qiao Xiaomai was already rolling out the noodles. He walked over and took the rolling pin from her, ¡°I¡¯ll do it.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai didn¡¯t bother being polite with him, so she moved aside upon seeing his gesture.

 Chapter 567: 567: Eat It If You Love It

    Chapter 567: Eat It If You Love It


    The newlyweds worked together, quickly producing some noodles.


    They used Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s Spiritual Spring water and with Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s culinary skills, the taste was indescribable.


    After the dinner was ready, the sun had already set but the sky was notpletely dark yet. Tong Tiehu had two bowls first before heading to the new house.@@novelbin@@


    First to run the shop, and second to feed the livestock there.


    Tong Xingda was guarding the shop there, while Tong Eng, Zhu Hongyun, and Tong Dng went to the mountains to pick firewood and cut grass. soon, Tong Xingda, Tong Eng, Zhu Hongyun, and Tong Dng all returned.


    The whole family began to have dinner.


    It was only simple noodles, no need to sit around the table. Everyone took their bowl and went to find a ce to eat.


    Qiao Xiaomai picked up a pair of chopsticks with noodles and added a spoonful of vegetable sauce. Then she handed the bowl to Tong Sang, ¡°Take it to mom. Where¡¯s mom¡¯s medicine? I¡¯ll make it.¡±


    ¡°No need, you eat, I¡¯ll make itter.¡± Tong Sang carried a half bowl of noodles out of the kitchen.


    Seeing that everyone in the courtyard had started eating, he took the bowl of noodles into Zhang Family¡¯s room.<div>


    Zhang Family¡¯s matriarch was lying askew on the bed, already hungry. Seeing Tong Sange in, she looked quickly over his shoulder, ¡°Where¡¯s Xiaomai?¡±


    ¡°In the kitchen.¡± Tong Sang set the bowl down on the table next to the bed.


    A fragrant smell hit her nose, standing out particrly in this room filled with peculiar smells. It was really refreshing when it entered her nostrils.


    Zhang Family could not help but take another deep breath, her appetite greatly stimted, ¡°Is this all?¡±


    ¡°Mom, you¡¯re sick. You have to take medicer.¡± Tong Sang reminded her.


    No sick person would eat two big bowls of noodles straight away.


    Upon hearing this, Zhang Family grumbled, ¡°This is not even enough to fill my teeth.¡±


    She didn¡¯t eat the banquet at noon, and now it¡¯s night. They only gave her half a bowl of noodles. Are they trying to starve her to death?


    ¡°Mom, get well soon.¡± Tong Sang said.


    Upon hearing this, Zhang Family snorted, suddenly changing the subject, ¡°How much betrothal money did you two receive today? Did Xiaomai give a present to Xiaoxing and Xiaoyue?¡±


    ¡°Our rtives, each household gave ten Wen, Xiaomai¡¯s grandmother gave five hundred Wen, uncle gave one hundred Wen, third aunt gave five Wen, fourth uncle gave one tael, grandpa gave fifty Wen. All of these grandpa gave to Xiaomai.¡±


    ording to the Tong Family tradition, whoever gets married will receive and hold on to the betrothal money. before Tong Dng and Tong Eng did the same.


    At that time, the Tong Family was prosperous, the entire vige woulde to the wedding. Even though each family didn¡¯t give much, the cost of the wedding feast was all out of Tong Tiehu, their newly married just waited to receive the money.


    Now it¡¯s the turn of Tong Sang and Qiao Xiaomai, only two families¡¯ rtives came. these rtives, one family poorer than the other, all four families of Tong family¡¯s rtives only gave a total of forty Wen.


    ¡°The presentation gift is ready, will give itter, a pair of longevity lock, made of silver, weighs ten taels.¡±


    ¡°Only giving so much?¡± Zhang Family was dissatisfied.


    ¡°If you don¡¯t want it, you don¡¯t have to take it.¡± Tong Sang replied.


    ¡°Oh, you¡¯re throwing a tantrum now?¡± Zhang Family heard this, her eyebrows raised. Her gaze swept over the feather duster on the table, ready to whack Tong Sang with it.


    At this time, Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s voice came from outside, ¡°Sang, if you don¡¯t eat now, the noodles will be dough!¡±<div>


    ¡°Coming!¡± Tong Sang raised his voice in reply. He nimbly dodged the feather duster, ¡°Mom, I¡¯ll take care of the bowlter.¡±


    After saying this, he hurriedly left Zhang Family¡¯s room.


    Zhang Family looked at the feather duster in her hand, threw it bitterly to one side, and started eating the noodles.


    Eat first, talkter!<div>

 Chapter 568: He Desires to Sleep in this Bed

    Chapter 568: He Desires to Sleep in this Bed


    Tong Sang was preparing the medicinal concoction for the Zhang family while having his meal. On the other side, Qiao Xiaomai quickly finished her food and took out the Longevity Locks she had prepared for Tong Xiaoxing and Tong Xiaoyue.


    She had bought these in town. Considering gold to be too extravagant, she had settled for a big pair of silver ones each weighing ten taels. Here, one tael is roughly the equivalent of thirty grams in the future, hence ten taels is three hundred grams, making one Longevity Lock weigh over half a pound.


    As she took out the pair of Longevity Locks, Li Rou finally exhibited a faint smile on her face.


    A pair of these weighed twenty taels ¡ª inparison to Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s fortune, this was hardly a blip.


    Zhu Hongyun, standing on the side, watched in envy.


    She and Tong Eng did not have any private money. Li Rou had just made a gain of twenty taels ¡ª having children was indeed wonderful. Thoughmentably, she too had been married for almost four years and was still not showing any signs of being pregnant.


    No, she must put in more effort tonight and strive to have a child soon!


    Soon, Tong Sang had finished making the medicine for the Zhang family. It was just ordinary body-strengthening medicine and harmless to drink. After that, he cleaned the pots and pans, and finally started boiling water.


    Qiao Xiaomai loved cleanliness and needed to bathe.


    In the past, she used to bathe in the small river, but now¡­


    Hmm, she could take a romantic couple¡¯s bath.


    Qiao Xiaomai lit the candles and started decorating her and Tong Sang¡¯s new room. She didn¡¯t touch Tong Sang¡¯s desk. Instead, she used the two cabs she had brought as tables and ced her rouge, powder, mirror, andb on them.


    After thinking for a while, she decided to rece the sheets and quilt covers on the bed.


    Those four families with children hade over today. After Yang Ye had left, she took the opportunity to roll a few times on the bed, but as a clean freak, she decided to rece them with her own sheets and covers.


    Quilt covers were not popr here. It took Xiaomai¡¯s prompting for Tong Sang to have Zhang Family sew two.


    After recing them with the warm yellow silk sheets and quilt cover she had brought, the whole room seemed to be covered in a soft glow under the candlelight.


    This included Qiao Xiaomai herself.


    After Tong Sang had boiled the hot water and entered the room, he found Qiao Xiaomai turning to look at him just then. Her face, under the candlelight, was so beautiful it took his breath away.


    Qiao Xiaomai, oblivious to his reaction, asked, ¡°Is the hot water ready?¡±


    Tong Sang quicklyposed himself and nodded, ¡°I¡¯ll pour it into the bathtub for you.¡±


    ¡°Okay, look at the bed. Doesn¡¯t it seem cozy? Don¡¯t you want to sleep in it?¡± Qiao Xiaomai asked, smiling smugly.


    Tong Sang¡¯s gazended on the bed. The light yellow hue was indeed warm, and the two pillows side by side exuded an indescribable intimacy. He pursed his lips, ¡°I want to sleep.¡±


    ¡°Then hurry up and pour the hot water,¡± Qiao Xiaomai urged, smiling.


    She too, was eager to roll around on it and sleep with Tong Sang!


    @@novelbin@@


    Tong Sang looked at her glowing eyes, tightened his lips, and turned to leave the room.


    He had incredible physical strength. He scooped the hot water into the bathtub, added cold water, and then carried the bathtub into the kitchen.


    Qiao Xiaomai walked to the doorway and saw that all the other rooms were pitch-ck, she then turned to ask, ¡°Has everyone gone to bed?¡±


    ¡°Yeah.¡± Tong Sang replied.


    Upon hearing this, Qiao Xiaomai closed the room¡¯s door, then turned to look at Tong Sang.


    Tong Sang looked at her, a smile appearing in his dark eyes and then spreading over his handsome face.


    He opened his arms wide.


    Qiao Xiaomai, her smile radiant, quickly ran into his arms.


    Snuggling against his lean waist, Qiao Xiaomai wriggled happily in his embrace, ¡°We are finally wed!¡±


    Holding her tightly, Tong Sang¡¯s voice was tinged with excitement, ¡°Yes, we are wed now.¡±

 Chapter 569: 569: Will You or Wont You...

    Chapter 569: Will You or Won¡¯t You¡­


    Now satisfied, Qiao Xiaomai released his waist and looked up at him with a teasing smile, ¡°How about we take a lovebird¡¯s bath, boy?¡±


    His breath hitched, ¡°Are you sure?¡±


    ¡°Absolutely! We are a married couple after all, there¡¯s no reason for us to be shy!¡±


    No reason to be shy!


    Tong Sang took a deep breath, trying to cool down his boiling blood. ¡°Sure, let¡¯s not be shy.¡±


    He began to unbutton his jacket as he said this.


    Qiao Xiaomai chuckled and began to unbutton her own clothes.


    Despite not being entirely experienced, she was modern and worldly. She wouldn¡¯t lose to Tong Sang.


    She quickly stripped off her clothes and stood unabashed in front of him.


    Honestly, her body was not fully developed. Her chest was small, her back was t, her figure was neither buxom nor curvy. The only advantage was its whiteness.<div>


    The people in ancient times were wrapped tightly in clothes, her body had never been sunbathed, so it was as white as snow.


    On top of that, ever since the Spiritual Spring appeared, she drank a lot of the spring water daily. Over the months, her skin had be quite delicate.


    It was white and soft, looking like mutton-fat jade under the dim candlelight. Even if her body was not fully developed, it was enough to catch Tong Sang¡¯s attention.


    Having never experienced such a sizzling situation before, Tong Sang was trying to distract himself by reciting things from books otherwise he wouldn¡¯t have been able to control his boiling blood.


    If he got a nosebleed at this time, it would be so embarrassing.


    Qiao Xiaomai looked up and saw his stiff movements, and chuckled before she got into the bath herself.


    She was sweaty and did not feelfortable hugging him at that moment.


    Once her body was in the warm water, she grabbed some rose petals from her space and threw them into the bath, then took out the shower gel. Seeing Tong Sang still struggling with his clothes, she couldn¡¯t help butugh again, ¡°Hey, do you think you might¡­¡±


    Before she could finish her sentence, her peach blossom eyes glistened like gemstones.


    Tong Sang, with his head spinning, asked, ¡°What?¡±


    His voice was extremely hoarse and his breathing was slightly erratic.


    ¡°Premature ejaction? I heard virgin boys tend to do that.¡± Qiao Xiaomai, sshing some water, casually remarked with a yful smile.


    Tong Sang ¡°¡­¡±


    He froze for a moment, then his lips formed a straight line. He swiftly peeled off his remaining clothes. ¡°Ever since my feelings for you became clear, I¡¯ve been very curious.¡±@@novelbin@@


    ¡°Curious about what?¡± Xiaomai asked.


    ¡°Curious about your body. I adore you, I¡¯m curious about everything about you, and I want to possess everything about you.¡± Tong Sang freed himself of thest hindrance and stepped into the bath tub, his tall body making the roomy tub suddenly feel crowded.


    He looked directly at Qiao Xiaomai. ¡°I¡¯ve been curious for so long, and tonight, I finally get to explore.¡±


    His gaze was straightforward and heated,pletely unmasked.


    Under such a gaze, Qiao Xiaomai suddenly felt a heat spread through her body.<div>


    She felt so hot that it was a bit unbearable. She couldn¡¯t help but shrink back a bit, pressing herself against the tub wall.


    Tong Sang raised his hand and touched her shoulder. His hand was as hot as iron. He asked, ¡°May I?¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s reflexive movement of evasion reminded him of her previous experiences. At this point, he had to ask permission.


    <div>

 Chapter 570: 570: Lawless

    Chapter 570: Lawless


    ¡°Is that alright?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s alright!¡±


    The young man standing before her did not shy away from exposing his innermost thoughts and feelings, loving her with every ounce of his soul, even his life.


    Being with him, his gaze always seemed to be glued onto her, but it was never overly intense, never making her feel ufortable.


    Seeing such a wholesome young man, she felt nothing but joy andfort.


    She didn¡¯t feel anxious, she didn¡¯t feel scared.


    At this moment, all she wanted was to hug him tightly and feel his burning passion.


    She wanted to melt under his doting affection and gentleness.


    Like dry wood meeting a raging fire, the two lovers, during their wedding night, under the meticulously arranged bed coverings by Qiao Xiaomai, lost all inhibitions.


    As the moon hung high in the sky, the room slowly cooled down. Tong Sang hugged Qiao Xiaomai tightly, with his arms around her slender waist, and legs entwined with hers, enveloping her petite bodypletely in his embrace.<div>


    He showered her with soft kisses, on her hair, neck, asionally whispering her name.


    ¡°How can there be such a wonderful person in this world?¡±


    ¡°How can there be such a marvellous experience?¡±


    Indeed, the wedding night is the most delightful event in one¡¯s life!


    Qiao Xiaomai was sweating again, sticky and ufortable. Tong Sang was hugging her so tightly it made it difficult for her to breathe.


    Her small hand sneakily fell onto his abdomen, and she gently pinched him, ¡°loosen up a bit, I can¡¯t breathe.¡±


    That pinch felt like a tickle to Tong Sang. He eased his hold, hisrge hand gently stroked her smooth back, sighed, ¡°I really want to drown in you.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai closed her eyes and smiled slightly upon hearing his words.


    Every grievance she¡¯d suffered before was worth it for such a sweet moment ofzy cuddling.


    The young man before her, she loved him.


    She was madly in love with him.


    ¡°You were crying just now.¡± Tong Sang said and gently kissed her neck.@@novelbin@@


    ¡°I was moved to tears. I¡¯ve lived two lifetimes, searched two worlds, I finally found you.¡± Qiao Xiaomai expressed her innermost feelings.


    The gaping hole in her heart finally had a ce to anchor.


    Upon hearing her words, Tong Sang patted her back and slowly pulled her body up, their faces close. He gazed at her still-flushed cheeks and moved his lips towards hers.


    He too, had finally found her.


    In the past, his life hadcked purpose. Tong Tiehu wouldmand him to strategize rebellions, practice martial arts, learn music, chess, calligraphy, and painting, and he¡¯ll carried out his orders.


    There was nothing else to do, so why not plot a rebellion.


    But then Qiao Xiaomai came along, forcefully capturing his heart, her presence growing more significant with time.<div>


    He found the purpose of his life.


    To love her, to cherish her, to hold her in the palm of his hand, to love her with all his might.


    At the same time, to receive her love, a love so genuine it wouldst even unto death.


    He had given all, and received equally in return.<div>


    He loved her, and she loved him with the same sincerity.


    Is there anything more beautiful in this world?


    Tender kisses on Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s cheek were swiftly reced by kisses on her lips. Even though he had just learned to kiss tonight, he had her blushing and going weak in the knees.


    The night was still very long.


    After another passionate bout, Qiao Xiaomai was on the verge of fainting from exhaustion.


    Tong Sang let her drink some of the Spiritual Spring water, spoon-fed mouth-to-mouth, he then dressed up and got off the bed.

 Chapter 603: 603 Yang Yes Worries

    Chapter 603: Chapter 603 Yang Ye¡¯s Worries


    This crisp hawking sound startled Tong Sang instantly.


    With Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s casual and confident demeanor, there wasn¡¯t a trace of embarrassment on her small face, but rather, she even wore a smile!


    Qiao Xiaomai was under no mental stress. She had always wanted to try out this kind of hawking style on the streets. With good merchandise to advocate, she was more than happy with her hawking.


    ¡°Brewed Snail eh~ Delicious brewed snail, free to taste, pay if you find it tasty eh~¡±


    The crisp voice traveled quite a distance, not only attracting the customers on the street but also pushing the customers inside Great Taste House to turn their heads and look out.


    Even the customers upstairs.


    Yang Ye heard the familiar voice and couldn¡¯t help but thrust his head out the window to look down.


    Seeing Qiao Xiaomai indeed, he lightly eximed, jumped straight out of the window.


    Hisnding startled both Qiao Xiaomai and Zhang Family.


    ¡°What are you guys doing?¡± Yang Ye looked into the oxcart.<div>


    Seeing two pots of field snails and a bucket of loach soup with a familiar fragrant scent constantly burrowing into his nostrils, he immediately said, ¡°Let me have a taste.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai had made Brewed Snail several times before, but this was the first time she cooked Loach Soup; she used to fry loaches.


    Upon hearing this, Qiao Xiaomai gestured towards the second floor, ¡°Prince, we don¡¯t have a bowl. Please go upstairs and get one.¡±


    Yang Ye clicked his tongue, turned around, genuinely applied acrobatics to go upstairs, and then came down holding a white zed porcin bowl.


    Qiao Xiaomai took it over and said, ¡°How about you try some loach soup, Prince? You¡¯ve never had it before.¡±


    Yang Ye didn¡¯t respond but let her proceed.


    This white zed bowl wasrger than the average one, used for serving soup. Now Qiao Xiaomai was filling it with loach soup, and Yang Ye¡¯s gaze involuntarily shifted from the loach to Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s face.


    Then moved to Tong Sang¡¯s face.


    Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s face was radiant, her skin white and delicate. It wasn¡¯t an unhealthy white, but a blush through the white. This mysteriously reminded Yang Ye of a ripe peach.


    As long as one wasn¡¯t blind, they could easily see that Qiao Xiaomai was well-nourished.


    And Tong Sang, at first nce, nothing seemed unusual, but if you looked closely, hisplexion and Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s were different.


    Both were martial artists. He could see their vitality at first nce.


    This was Qiao Xiaomai nourishing Tong Sang¡¯s kidneys!


    He shook his head slightly, turning a blind eye.


    Moreover, there was an inexplicable mncholy in his heart¡­


    The newlywed couple didn¡¯t show anything, but he felt an inexplicable deep hostility¡­


    Taking the bowl from her hand, he gave Qiao Xiaomai a heavy look, ¡°Are you going to set up a stall?¡±


    ¡°Yes, from now on, my mother will set up a stall and do some small business.¡±


    Yang Ye simply responded, ¡°Alright, go ahead. I¡¯m going upstairs.¡±<div>


    He didn¡¯t say much. As soon as he finished speaking, he applied acrobatics to go upstairs, truly as swift as the wind.


    Qiao Xiaomai couldn¡¯t help but look at Tong Sang, her peach blossom eyes filled with confusion. What was wrong with Yang Ye?


    Tong Sang shook his head.


    He wasn¡¯t familiar with Yang Ye. If Yang Ye was acting weird, he truly didn¡¯t know the reason¡­<div>


    Standing to one side, Zhang Family witnessed the whole process with mixed feelings.


    Qiao Xiaomai and Tong Sang were married when she was hiding in the room pretending to be sick and couldn¡¯t meet Yang Ye personally to see the dowry he brought, nor could she contact Yang Ye so closely. Now she was so close to him, it was just¡­


    The noble aura hit her face, making her heart tremble!


    Truly worthy of being a royal!

 Chapter 604: 604 Do You Know What Youre Talking About?

    Chapter 604: Chapter 604 Do You Know What You¡¯re Talking About?


    Yang Ye¡¯s sudden appearance had given a scare to those who wanted toe and watch, but after he left, the interested crowd slowly gathered.


    Just by the smell and color, it was clear that these two items were vorful, but since they were free of charge, they couldn¡¯t help but to taste them.


    After confirming that they genuinely tasted good, the ones who should have gone back for a bowl immediately brought back their bowls, while the customers of Jixiju Restaurant came out with theirs directly from the restaurant.


    Five copper coins for a spoonful, quite expensive.


    But the price was in line with such a good taste.


    With the taste guaranteed, both basins of field snails sold out quickly and the loach soup also sold out.


    Until the three of them returned to the vige, Yang Ye did not show up again.


    On their journey back, Zhang Family was tedly counting the copper coins. They had over a thousand in total, which made Zhang Family very joyous.


    This, she thought, was a business that could earn a tael of silver a day!


    You can¡¯t guarantee the supply of field snails and loaches, so the business is not stable.<div>


    Thinking about this, and then remembering the conditions she had mentioned before, the smile on Zhang Family¡¯s face quickly vanished.


    Tong Tiehu said to make her offer, and when she really did, he pped it down hard.


    Ha.


    Recalling Tong Tiehu¡¯s reprimand, her expression turned gloomy.


    Although they had earned many copper coins, they had been sunburned from being outside in the midday sun for half an hour, it was quite tough.


    Having a shop front is much morefortable.


    ¡°Sang, it is too hot to set up a stall like this, make arge umbre when you go home.¡± Therge umbremonly seen in the stalls inter generations was not avable here. In the summer, this was a necessity.


    Tong Sang replied with a ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s arge umbre?¡± Zhang Family curiously asked.


    Qiao Xiaomai exined to her, and Zhang Family listened, making an ¡°oh¡± sound, without saying anything.


    What did she have to say?


    With the family forced to split up, she didn¡¯t want to say anything.


    When they got home quickly, the family excitedly crowded around and asked about the situation, and Zhang Family now smiled again.


    The previously discouraged Tong Xingda immediately regained his spirits. He called Tong Dng, Tong Eng and Tong Sang, and the four of them went to the river to catch loaches and snails again.


    They would sell as much as they could for a few days.


    This time, with the help of Tong Dng and Tong Eng, the four of them brought back a water tank full of creatures by the evening.


    After dinner, Tong Sang heated water for bathing.


    This time he heated three pots, because many people needed to bathe today.


    Once the heating was done, he was about to scoop hot water into the bathtub when Zhang Family appeared at the kitchen door, ¡°Sang,e here, I have something to say to you.¡±<div>


    Tong Sang looked at her, a little confused, ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡±


    ¡°Come out and I¡¯ll tell you.¡± Zhang Family said and turned to walk outside thepound.


    Seeing this, Tong Sang followed her.


    When they reached the entrance of thepound, Tong Sang asked, ¡°Mother, what¡¯s the matter?¡±<div>


    ¡°What is the rtionship between Xiaomai and Prince Wei, really?¡± Zhang Family began, ¡°When you two got married, he even sent so many dowry gifts, and today I saw Xiaomai being very pleasant with him, he¡­¡±


    Before she could finish, Tong Sang coldly interrupted her, ¡°Mother, do you know what you¡¯re talking about?!¡±


    ¡°What did I say?!¡± Zhang Family couldn¡¯t help but p him, ¡°You silly boy, I¡¯m thinking for you! Xiaomai is your wife, she married you out of necessity because of my illness, you¡­¡±


    ¡°Enough!¡± Tong Sang¡¯s voice was as cold as ice, ¡°Mother, don¡¯t say these things again, let¡¯s split up tomorrow.¡±


    Leaving this word behind, Tong Sang walked towards the courtyard.


    His lips were tightly closed, his back was straight, and his fists were tightly clenched.


    Was this really his mother¡­

 Chapter 573: 573: Craving for Braised Pork

    Chapter 573: Craving for Braised Pork


    Qiao Xiaomai didn¡¯t drink the chicken soup she¡¯d made herself. Tong Sang cooked up four eggs to make egg custard, thendled out some of the chicken soup from the ceramic pot to present to Mrs. Zhang.


    Mrs. Zhang was cooped up in a room emitting a peculiar odor; her face was yellowish and pale, and she gave a grunt at the sight of Tong Sang.


    ¡°Mother, drink the chicken soup,¡± Tong Sang said, cing the bowl on the table.


    Mrs. Zhang looked at the table and saw it indeed was ¡°chicken soup.¡± There wasn¡¯t even a single piece of meat in it. Frustrated, she said, ¡°Are you giving me the leftover soup she didn¡¯t finish?¡±


    ¡°Xiaomai did not drink it, I made her egg custard. The chicken meat is supposed to be stir-fried at noon, as my second brother wanted,¡± Tong Sang exined.


    Mrs. Zhang red at him, fuming, but she didn¡¯t know what exactly to rebuke him about.


    She knew about Tong Sang¡¯s chicken soup, and he had told her he would save half for her.


    Now all the soup was hers ¨C a fact she should be pleased about.


    But she couldn¡¯t bring herself to be d in the least.


    She felt so suffocated, so wronged.<div>


    ¡°Go on, off with you,¡± Mrs. Zhang waved him away impatiently.


    ¡°If you need anything, call for me,¡± Tong Sang said, before returning to his own room with Qiao Xiaomai.


    ¡°Do you want to wash up?¡± he asked.


    Qiao Xiaomai responded with a casual nod of her head.


    So, he brought water for her to wash, then carried her to the restroom.


    The Tong household had separate restrooms for men and women. But since there was no one else at home, Tong Sang carried Qiao Xiaomai into the women¡¯s restroom.


    Qiao Xiaomai was ufortable at certain overly used parts of herself. He himself had been stamped a few times, but it was not too bad.


    ¡°Notfortable with using the restrooms here?¡± he asked. ¡°Should I fetch a chamber pot for you instead?¡±


    ¡°No, no, no!¡± Remembering the peculiar smell from Mrs. Zhang¡¯s room yesterday, Qiao Xiaomai shook her head like a rattle-drum.


    At this moment, how she longed for the houses of future generations, with the convenience of having a restroom inside the bedroom!


    ¡°Are you sure you don¡¯t need it?¡±@@novelbin@@


    ¡°I¡¯m positive, really positive,¡± affirmed Qiao Xiaomai, with utmost conviction.


    But then, noticing several wood shavings on the restroom stool, she felt a tightening in her chest. ¡°What is this?¡±


    ¡°Toilet chips,¡± replied Tong Sang.


    ¡°Damn!¡± Qiao Xiaomai was bbergasted, recalling the original host¡¯s past experience. ¡°You can¡¯t be serious! Your family uses this?¡±


    ¡°We didn¡¯t use this before, but now that we have fallen on hard times, we had to resort to it. Anyways, ever since I bought toilet paper, these chips are mainly decorative,¡± Tong Sang added.


    As for whether these toilet chips in the women¡¯s restroom really got used or not, he didn¡¯t know.


    What he did know was that thest batch of toilet paper he bought had been divided, forcing him to buy again.


    Qiao Xiaomai exhaled deeply, ¡°Okay then.¡±<div>


    Jesus, so poor they can¡¯t even use toilet paper? What a convoluted situation!


    Then she remembered the ten-thousand taels of silver she owed Yang Ye from yesterday, furtherplicating her feelings.


    She had never owed anyone money before, and the first time she does, she ends up owing ten thousand taels. Tsk!


    ¡°Let¡¯s go and eat,¡± she tapped Tong Sang¡¯s shoulder before hopping onto his back.<div>


    The three-day marital leave was almost over; she had to get back to work and earn money!


    After feasting on egg custard, tackling a piece of bread, and chugging a big ss of Spiritual Spring Water, Qiao Xiaomaiy back onto the bed, her heart full and her stomach satisfied.


    Closing in on noon, Tong Sang washed his hands and started to prepare lunch.


    It was noodles again, only this time the sauce wasn¡¯t vegetarian. The meat from the wild chicken was stir-fried into the dish.


    But for Tong Eng, this was not nearly enough.


    He felt wobbly upon getting up in the morning and was forced to work all morning. At this point, he felt almost weightless.


    ¡°Sang, when will Xiaomai make another batch of braised pork?¡± he asked.

 Chapter 574: 574: Meat Scraps

    Chapter 574: Meat Scraps


    For Tong Eng, this chicken meat didn¡¯t even count as a delicacy. Chicken meat was not as rich and fatty as pork, and this wild chicken had been stewed in a soup. Tasting it now, it was only slightly better than vegetables.


    If one is to talk about satisfying the meat craving, Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s braised pork was undoubtedly the first choice.


    Fat but not greasy, fragrant, and soft, thinking of its color, thinking of its taste, Tong Eng couldn¡¯t help but drool. If he was given arge bowl now, he would certainly eat arge bowl of either steamed buns or rice.


    Seeing the bright eyes of his second brother, Tong Sang asked, ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡±


    ¡°I want to eat!¡± Tong Eng stuffed another mouthful of noodles in his mouth, stifling the saliva that was about to flow out, ¡°I mean, she just got married and came here, she¡¯s supposed to show off her skills, right? You cooked today¡¯s meals, but they¡¯re far worse than hers.¡±


    ¡°Life is hard!¡±


    Tong Eng¡¯s face was nearly wrinkled like a steamed bun, he was exhausted every day, and there was no oil or water in the food. Having never suffered so much in his life, he felt as if he was a leaf on a tree, being tortured by the harsh weather and difficult life, ready to fall and merge with the soil at any moment.


    ¡°Alright, tomorrow I will go hunting to exchange for some silver money and buy some meat.¡± Tong Sang looked at Tong Eng¡¯s sunburned red cheeks and nodded.


    He knows his second brother well, while his thinking might not be sharp, he has no ill intentions.


    These days were indeed tiring, they do need to replenish their strength.<div>


    Showing off cooking skills as a new bride was a must. Since Tong Eng requested braised pork, then braised pork it is.


    In the afternoon, after other people left to the fields, Tong Sang read for a while and then took a rope to the mountain for a stroll.


    Prey is getting harder toe by, and he needs to go even further. By evening, he had returned with a live deer on his back.


    This was worth more than a dead one. He harnessed a cattle cart and delivered the deer to Extreme Taste Residence.


    With the fifty taels of silver given by Shopkeeper He, he went to the butcher shop and bought a pig¡¯s hind leg and ten pounds of pork belly.


    The Zhang Family told him about the four families taking away meat and steamed buns yesterday. He didn¡¯t feel much about it. But, since the Zhang Family mentioned it and given their current situation at home, they did need Qiao Xiaomai to show off her cooking skills, so he did his best to buy.


    By the time he returned home, Qiao Xiaomai had already prepared dinner. She made egg pancakes and cooked glutinous rice dumpling soup ¨C eggs and sweet dumplings she had brought from her family.


    Tong Family¡¯s eggs were now dependent on the hensying them and they couldn¡¯t buy them as freely as before. So she simply went home and brought a whole basket.


    To be honest, she didn¡¯t mind these little things. With Tong Sang as her husband, she wanted to bounce up and down wherever she went. After all, these were Tong Sang¡¯s family members. If they could live in harmony, let it be!


    This meal was extremely satisfying for everyone. Seeing Tong Sang bring home so much meat, everyone was even more pleased.


    So that night, when Tong Sang heated up water for Qiao Xiaomai to bathe, Zhu Hongyun kept her mouth shut.@@novelbin@@

 Chapter 575: 575: Spatial Variation

    Chapter 575: Spatial Variation


    When everything was over, the newlyweds both felt like well-fed cats,zily holding each other and basking in the pleasurable ambiance of their warmed ears and temples brushing against each other.


    With such moments, all minor annoyances and worries were not a problem at all.


    Qiao Xiaomai put her feet on Tong Sang¡¯s feet, rubbing them asionally.


    Tong Sang felt ticklish. Thinking about the situation just now, hisrge hand gently patted Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s back, ¡°I see your toenails have grown a little long, shall I trim them for you?¡±


    ¡°Sure.¡± Qiao Xiaomai had no objections.


    She took a pair of nail clippers from her space and handed it to Tong Sang.


    Tong Sang sat up, hisrge hand holding her foot, gently trimming her toenails in the candlelight.


    Qiao Xiaomai watched his focused and serious expression, feeling something stir in her heart.


    Tong Sang had just been whispering sweet nothings into her ear, but to her, wasn¡¯t he equally captivating?


    Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s gaze was fervent. Tong Sang looked up at her, ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡±<div>


    ¡°I want to kiss you.¡± Qiao Xiaomai did not hide her desires.


    ¡°Wait a minute.¡± Tong Sang raised an eyebrow at her words. He quickened his movements, and after finishing, he pounced on Qiao Xiaomai, kissing her madly.


    He absolutely adored kissing; it was sweet and intimate. If he weren¡¯t afraid of leaving apparent marks on his mouth, he¡¯d want to spend the entire day kissing Qiao Xiaomai.


    Qiao Xiaomai also loved this activity. She wrapped her arms around Tong Sang¡¯s back, holding him tightly, thoroughly enjoying his actions.


    One night is too short. Having just discovered new positions and opened up a new world, Tong Sang wished he could stretch every minute into two minutes. Amidst kissing, they got carried away again. He didn¡¯t suppress his physical instincts and once again plunged into the sea of affection with Qiao Xiaomai.


    Practice makes perfect. Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s body recovered quickly, and her endurance seemed to increase as well. She apanied him in exploring various new positions and revisiting old movements.


    She hadn¡¯t done such things with her loser ex-boyfriend before, so for her, all these positions and this world were entirely new and exciting. She willingly drowned in this world with Tong Sang.


    The two of them kept at it untilte night. This time, Qiao Xiaomai didn¡¯t want Tong Sang to heat water anymore.


    Why would they need hot water? Falling asleep while holding each other was the real deal.


    As for the various traces on their bodies and the bed, those were not something that needed to be cleaned up by a hygiene-obsessed person; these were evidence of love!


    The sound asleep Qiao Xiaomai failed to notice the strange happenings in her space. The once clear water in the pond within that space turned milky white, simr to water mixed with milk.


    The milky water didn¡¯tst long; in a quarter of an hour, it waspletely dissolved by the waters of the pond.@@novelbin@@


    The pond returned to its usual appearance, clear and bright.


    The next day, Qiao Xiaomai woke up on time ording to her biological clock. The situation where she overslept and woke up in the middle of the day didn¡¯t happen.


    Moreover, she didn¡¯t feel the soreness and aches of the previous day upon waking up, and there was nothing unusual about a certain unmentionable part either.


    She was refreshed and vibrant, not at all looking like someone who had less than two hours of sleep. The wild exertions fromst night seemed to have no effect on her.


    She had no dark circles under her eyes, her face showed no signs of exhaustion, and her skin was as smooth as a peeled egg.


    On the other hand, Tong Sang was still deeply asleep. She carefully extracted herself from his arms without waking him up.


    For a martial artist, this was somewhat unusual.<div>

 Chapter 576: 576 Only a Dead Cow

    Chapter 576: Chapter 576 Only a Dead Cow


    Qiao Xiaomai gave a soft click of her tongue, lightly kissing his lips, then carefully got out of bed.


    She used the Spiritual Spring water from her space to quickly clean herself before going out the room.


    She was in charge of making breakfast, and the Braised Pork needed some time to cook. In addition to this, steamed buns also had to be made, and the dough was prepared the night before. She needed to move quickly.


    Soon, dawn broke, and Tong Tiehu woke up.


    Seeing that only Qiao Xiaomai was busy in the kitchen, he was somewhat surprised, ¡°Is Third Brother still sleeping?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡± Qiao Xiaomai replied.


    She felt a bit embarrassed, a strange old sayinging to mind: There is no field that could not be plowed, only the oxen could be worked to death.


    She was energetic like a fox spirit that had absorbed a man¡¯s energy, while Tong Sang was still so tired that he was still asleep¡­


    Awkward.


    ¡°I estimate he¡¯s tired from the past few days, plus he¡¯s been feeling a bit upset. Now that he¡¯s finally married, the heavy stone he¡¯s been holding in his heart was finally let go. So, he slept deeply because of being rxed.¡± While Qiao Xiaomai was looking down at her toes, Tong Tiehu earnestly opened his mouth.<div>


    ¡°I¡¯ll start the fire for you.¡± He offered.


    ¡°No need, no need, I can do it myself.¡± Qiao Xiaomai waved her hand.


    ¡°Then I¡¯ll go to the new house to help feed the livestock.¡± he said referring to your father.


    Because Zhang Family¡¯s illness filled the room with a strange smell, Tong Xingda was unwilling to share the bed with her. Therefore, he had been sleeping in the new house these days and took the opportunity to feed the various domestic animals in the evening and the morning.


    Hearing these words, Qiao Xiaomai was busy saying, ¡°Come back early for the meal.¡±


    Tong Tiehu answered, then opened the courtyard door and went out.


    Qiao Xiaomai, standing at the kitchen door, couldn¡¯t help but touch her burning cheeks.


    This is an embarrassing fact¡­um¡­should she go to town today and buy something to replenish Third Brother¡¯s energy?


    He¡¯s a fine young man. She hopes she doesn¡¯t wear him out¡­


    As she remembered the passion ofst evening, she felt her burning cheeks and stomped her foot, turning around to keep stoking the fire.


    She must replenish his strength.


    Next, while she was cooking breakfast, she was also thinking about what dishes to prepare. Soon, it was broad daylight, the Tong Family gradually woke up, those who had to wash were washing up, and those who had to use the bathroom were heading there. The strong aroma of pork filled the bustling courtyard, kicking off a new day.


    After washing her hands, Qiao Xiaomai returned to her room.


    Tong Sang was still sleeping. She frowned slightly. She vaguely remembered the day when Tong Sang drew out the poisoned blood for her, could it be the same this time?


    She reached out and touched Tong Sang¡¯s forehead. His body temperature was normal.@@novelbin@@


    After looking carefully at his face, it was also normal.


    Was it really just fatigue?


    After hesitating for a moment, she refrained from waking Tong Sang, shut the room door and went out.


    Tong Eng quickly washed up and trotted into the kitchen, and then he eximed with surprise, ¡°Wow, Xiaomai, you really made Braised Pork?¡±<div>


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s eat, let¡¯s eat! Tong Eng smiled from ear to ear.


    The mouthwatering aroma of the meat made his mouth water non-stop.


    The newly steamed buns also smelled very good, the wheat fragrance kept rushing into his nostrils.<div>


    And the simmering porridge, just smelling it made him feel like he could drink three big bowls.


    ¡°Xiaomai, oh Xiaomai, how are your cooking skills so good!¡± As Tong Xingda and Tong Tiehu hadn¡¯t returned yet, even though Tong Eng was drooling, he could only stare at the food, so he bluntly stood next to Qiao Xiaomai, ¡°Do you have any secrets? Teach your second sister-inw, her cooking is far worse than yours.¡±


    When she heard this, the expression of Zhu Hongyun, who had been washing her face, changed abruptly.


    Tong Eng said it without thinking, but Zhu Hongyun listened with particr intent.


    She lifted her head and looked at Tong Eng and Qiao Xiaomai.


    Qiao Xiaomai was radiant, her face glowing with health, while Tong Eng was grinning, ingratiating himself.


    This scene was like a thorn, stabbing into Zhu Hongyun¡¯s eyes.


    She admitted that Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s cooking skills were good, but did he need to smile like that?


    What a disgrace!


    Moreover, he even belittled her once, hateful!

 Chapter 609: 609: All Are Worrisome

    Chapter 609: Chapter 609: All Are Worrisome


    At this thought, he was about to speak, when the until then dumbfounded Tong Eng couldn¡¯t help but exim, ¡°What separation? Grandpa, when you and Dad went to the Qiao Family for marriage proposal, did you mention anything about separating?¡±


    Tong Eng and Zhu Hongyun didn¡¯t know anything about the use of separating once Mrs. Zhang recovered from her illness. Hearing this, Tong Eng couldn¡¯t help but panic.


    Now, he and Zhu Hongyun had the recipes for bean sprouts and malt sugar, but the money earned from these two recipes was not enough to feed them, let alone, the bean sprouts might fall under Mrs. Zhang¡¯s control, leaving them with just the malt sugar recipe.


    They don¡¯t know how to farm, can¡¯t do hardbor, and can¡¯t endure hardships. What would they do if the family really separated!


    Tong Tiehu looked at him and said coldly, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, except for Tong Sang and Xiaomai, everyone else will move to the new residence and live as before.¡±


    ¡°What?¡± Tong Eng was taken aback.


    Was that what family separation meant?


    ¡°Just go to sleep.¡±Tong Tiehu grunted and seeing Tong Dng and Li Rou standing at his door, added, ¡°Everyone go to sleep, we¡¯ll separate early tomorrow morning.¡±


    ¡°What about mother?¡± Tong Eng couldn¡¯t help but look at Mrs. Zhang, who was lying at the kitchen door.


    ¡°No one needs to worry about her, she lives or dies by fate.¡± Mentioning Mrs. Zhang, Tong Tiehu¡¯s voice became even colder, ¡°Also, anyone who spreads word of Mrs. Zhang¡¯s gibberish tonight, will meet the same fate as hers!¡±<div>


    After dropping this harsh statement, he turned around and went back into his room.


    All of them are such a worry!


    ¡°Let¡¯s go back too,¡± Qiao Xiaomai said softly before leading Tong Sang back into their room.


    Tong Sang followed her back to the room, like a log.


    ¡°Sit down,¡± Qiao Xiaomai led him to the chair beside the desk, then she left the room.


    She brought in the bath tub, filled it with water, and helped Tong Sang bathe.


    Tong Sang was like a Puppet, following her orders. Once the bath was over, he cleaned and put out the bath tub.


    When he entered the room again, he found Qiao Xiaomai lying in bed, beckoning him.


    He pressed his lips together and climbed into bed.


    Holding Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s warm and soft body in his arms, he submerged his face into her neck and murmured, ¡°I¡¯m sorry.¡±


    ¡°Fool, what are you apologizing for?¡± Qiao Xiaomai patted his back and coaxed softly, ¡°Go to sleep, tomorrow is a new day.¡±


    Having a mother like Mrs. Zhang is truly disheartening and helpless.


    She used to argue with her sorry excuse of a father every time they met, but aside from arguing, she had no other choice.


    Facing off-key parents, as long as one has a conscience, as their children, besides avoidance and tolerance, there is no better coping strategy.


    ¡°Forget about what she said tonight, she was talking nonsense.¡± Tong Sang added.


    At the mention of Mrs. Zhang¡¯s words, he felt a dull pain in his heart.


    How could she say such a thing? What did she take him for?


    Mrs. Zhang hadpletely changed, not a trace of her former self could be found.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t take it to heart at all.¡± Qiao Xiaomai patted him again.<div>


    It was just a rumor. As long as it didn¡¯t reach Yang Ye¡¯s ears, it wouldn¡¯t cause any harm.


    Tong Sang took a long breath and held her even tighter.


    Both remained silent until, after around fifteen minutes, Tong Sang hesitated and said, ¡°Should I¡­ go invite Doctor Hu over?¡±


    As soon as Qiao Xiaomai heard this, she sighed softly and said, ¡°Go ahead.¡±<div>


    She knew Tong Sang would say that.


    After all, Mrs. Zhang was Tong Sang¡¯s biological mother, and with Tong Sang¡¯s character, he was incapable of ignoring her.

 Chapter 578: 578: The Craftsmanship Has Improved Again

    Chapter 578: The Craftsmanship Has Improved Again


    ¡°That¡¯s it?¡± Zhu Hongyun asked after watching Qiao Xiaomai demonstrate all the steps, her eyebrows furrowed.@@novelbin@@


    ¡°Yes, it just needs to be cooked for another half an hour. Did you remember all the steps?¡± Xiaomai nced at Li Rou and then at Zhu Hongyun.


    ¡°I remember.¡± Li Rou nodded. ¡°Shall I give it a try now?¡±


    ¡°Go ahead,¡± Xiaomai nodded.


    Li Rou then picked up the knife and started cutting the meat while Xiaomai continued to squat by the stove and tend to the fire.


    Zhu Hongyun watched from the side.


    Very soon, Li Rou cooked a pot ording to Xiaomai¡¯s instructions. Since Xiaomai had reced the water in the bucket with Spiritual Spring water in the morning, the taste of Li Rou¡¯s dish was not much different from Xiaomai¡¯s.


    Li Rou was overjoyed and returned to her room with a te of meat, herughter echoing in the air.


    Seeing this, Zhu Hongyun¡¯s eyes shed, and she began to cook as well.


    Her cooking skills were mediocre, but with Xiaomai¡¯s Spiritual Spring water, the food tasted pretty good.<div>


    Her gloomy face that had persisted all morning finally lightened up. She too, returned to her room with a te of meat, a smile on her face.


    Upon seeing this, Xiaomai served her own portion into a bowl, cleaned the pot and bowls, steamed an egg custard, and then returned to her room.


    Tong Sang was still sleeping. With not much else to do, Xiaomai decided to wash their clothes.


    She did not use the bowl from the Tong Family, but her own bathing tub. However, because there were people at home, she did not show off her strength, washing the clothes slowly like an ordinary person would.


    By the time she finished washing and hung the clothes to dry on the line, it was already mid-morning.


    At that moment, Tong Sang finally woke up.


    ¡°Oh, the sleeping beauty is finally awake?¡± Xiaomai teased, a bright smile on her face as she leaned over the bed.


    Tong Sang, though recently awake, his eyes were already clear. He beckoned Xiaomai with a finger, ¡°Kiss me.¡±


    The smile on Xiaomai¡¯s face grew wider. She leaned in to kiss him hard on the lips, lingered for a moment before swiftly pulling away.


    Upon seeing this, Tong Sang did not sit up to chase her, only blinked his eyes, ¡°I¡¯m feeling sore.¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡± Xiaomai paused, her smile frozen on her face, ¡°Sore?¡±


    ¡°Yes, sore.¡± Tong Sang said as he turned over, ¡°Come, give me a massage.¡±


    ¡°Could it be that I¡¯m actually a subus and have drained all of your energy?!¡± Xiaomai eximed in shock.


    When had Tong Sang everined of feeling sore?


    ¡°No, I think I¡¯m just tired these days.¡± Tong Sang¡¯s exnation echoed Tong Tiehu¡¯s.


    ¡°I need to give you a proper replenishment then.¡± Saying so, Xiaomai climbed up the bed and started massaging Tong Sang in the same manner that he did for her the night before.


    She was strong, and Tong Sang could not help but groan a couple of times.


    Xiaomai noticed this and gave him a tap on his buttocks, ¡°I¡¯ve steamed egg custard, but we also have braised pork, which one do you want to eat?¡±


    ¡°Egg custard.¡±<div>


    ¡°Wait.¡±


    ¡°No need, I¡¯m not so tired that I can¡¯t get out of bed.¡± He just felt exhausted, as if all his energy had been drained, and even lifting his arm felt like too much.


    Probably just fatigue.


    Tong Sang made the guess. Once Xiaomai finished the massage, he jumped off the bed to wash up and eat.<div>


    ¡°Huh? Your cooking has improved again.¡± Tong Sang expressed his surprise after taking the first bite of egg custard.


    ¡°I noticed it too.¡± Xiaomai nodded.


    The people of the Tong family didn¡¯t have many opportunities to taste her cooking, so they didn¡¯t notice it, but she ate her own cooking every day and could tell the difference.


    Moreover, the Spiritual Spring water in her space did indeed taste much sweeter and purer.

 Chapter 611: Only You are Accompanying Me Now

    Chapter 611: Chapter 611: Only You are Apanying Me Now


    As agreed before, the family¡¯s farnd should not be divided. Like before, during the farming season, everyone had to work in the fields.


    No one disagreed with this point, so Li Rou finally picked some vegetables from the vegetable garden, got on the ox cart, and left. Zhang was already taken away to the new house, and only Tong Sang and Qiao Xiaomai were left in the house.


    Even though they were all reluctant, Tong Tiehu had given a strict order and, with the bloody example of Zhang Family ahead, everyone eventually moved away.


    Tong Sang stood in the courtyard, staring at the empty courtyard, silent.


    Qiao Xiaomai walked over, wrapped her arms around his arm, gently shook him a few times, and said, ¡°Shall we go home for dinner?¡±


    ¡°Alright.¡± Tong Sang responded, wrapping her shoulders in his arm and pulling her into his embrace. ¡°From now on, you are the only one who will be with me.¡±


    ¡°And you are the only one who will be with me.¡± Qiao Xiaomai embraced him with her arms as well.


    Whether parents or children, they will all eventually leave.


    The only one who can truly apany you throughout your life is your spouse.


    When the two people arrived at the Qiao Family house, Qiao Changshun had already prepared lunch. He had made noodles, though he had clearly prepared a bit too much.


    Seeing the two people return, he immediately startedughing, ¡°The food just got ready, you have good timing.¡±


    Qiao Dami stood up and rushed to Qiao Xiaomai, looking up at her and asking, ¡°Sister, is it true that the family has been divided?¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai smiled brightly as she picked him up, ¡°Yes, it is.¡±


    ¡°I really wish Sister and Brother Tong woulde back to live with us.¡± Qiao Dami wrapped his little arms around her neck, his small face full of expectation.


    With one less person at home, it feels so empty¡­


    Sometimes, he didn¡¯t know what to do.


    ¡°No, after a period of time, when Brother Tong and I move to the manor, you and Dad will follow, alright?¡±


    ¡°What about Mom? Didn¡¯t they say that they were going to find her?¡± Qiao Dami asked.


    ¡°Mom? I guess we¡¯ll hear from her in a couple of days.¡± Calcting the time, it was about time for some news from Tingfeng Pavilion.


    ¡°Really?!¡±


    ¡°Really?!¡±


    Both Qiao Changshun and Qiao Dami asked in unison, their faces filled with joy and surprise.


    Qiao Xiaomai nodded firmly, ¡°Really. Tingfeng Pavilion will send a message.¡±


    ¡°My, this is¡­¡± Qiao Changshun was overjoyed, rubbing his big hands together, too choked up with emotion to say a word.


    Seeing his delighted expression, Qiao Xiaomai also smiled, ¡°Dad, we are now leading a life where we eat white flour and rice every day. When Momes back, she will definitely be surprised.¡±


    The wish that was made when she named herself and Qiao Dami, was finally about toe true.


    When Qiao Changshun heard these words, he became even happier, his mouth just wouldn¡¯t close, ¡°All of this is thanks to you.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s also thanks to the Sun Family. If it weren¡¯t for them intending to sell me to the brothel, I wouldn¡¯t havee up with various ways of making food. People¡¯s potential is always forced out.¡± Qiao Xiaomai said.


    Zhuang Luhe would surely notice her changes when shees back.


    So she had to attribute the cause to this: she had unleashed her potential during a crisis, and her thoughts had taken flight. Things she couldn¡¯t think of or do in the past, she had figured out now.


    Upon hearing Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s words, Qiao Changshun¡¯s face stiffened for a moment.


    He inevitably thought back to the day Zhuang Luhe left.


    Qiao Xiaomai smiled knowingly and continued, ¡°Dad, we¡¯ve severed ties with the Sun Family now. After Momes back, she will never be bullied by the Sun Family again.¡±

 Chapter 612: How to Relieve Worry?

    Chapter 612: Chapter 612: How to Relieve Worry?


    That was true indeed. Recollecting the beating Zhuang Luhe used to endure from the Sun Family, Qiao Changshun couldn¡¯t refrain from nodding heavily, ¡°That¡¯s right.¡±


    The house is currently filled with joy. Zhuang Luhe hase to live with them, enjoying the fruits of their struggle.


    She had suffered too much in the past, but now she has finally turned the tide.


    Thinking of the surprised expression Zhuang Luhe would show when she saw the state of the house, Qiao Changshun felt cheerful again, ¡°Should we fix up the house a bit?¡± Their house hadn¡¯t been spruced up for a year now, so it was overdue for some attention.


    ¡°How should we spruce it up?¡±


    ¡°Clean it up, get some new furniture?¡± suggested Qiao Changshun.


    ¡°No need, we¡¯ll all move to the manorter,¡± said Qiao Xiaomai.


    Cen Hong has been appearing frequently, which indicates that Yang Wang still harbors doubts about that brick.


    So, Qiao Changshun and Qiao Dami should also move. Let Yang Wang decide what to do with this house when the timees.


    Anyway, after the back-and-forth meddling from Tong Sang and her, that piece ofnd has mixed with the surrounding area and doesn¡¯t seem out of ce anymore.


    Upon hearing this, Qiao Changshun thought for a moment, then nodded, ¡°Sounds good. Let¡¯s eat, we¡¯ve been busy all morning, must be hungry by now.¡±


    ¡°Alright, let¡¯s eat.¡± Xiaomai looked at Tong Sang.


    Tong Sang had been the one doing most of the work that morning while she had just been passively lending a hand.


    ¡°Let¡¯s eat.¡± Tong Sang said with a faint smile on his handsome face.


    The atmosphere of the Qiao Family was far better than his home¡¯s. So sweet and innocent, it was lovely.


    After a not-so-delicious lunch, Xiaomai and Tong Sang, apanied by Dami, headed to the town.


    They had many things to buy, their house didn¡¯t even have a broom anymore, so recements were needed.


    The kitchenware and pots were all made of iron, they didn¡¯t have a choice with them. However, there was a variety to select from for bowls. If they chose aesthetically pleasing bowls that suited their taste, it would certainly enhance their mood when eating.


    But after inspecting the grocery store, Xiaomai frowned.


    This was after all ancient times, not asvish and varied as the supermarkets in the modern world. After looking around, she didn¡¯t find anything she particrly liked.


    Tong Sang noticed her expression and asked the shopkeeper, ¡°Shopkeeper, can these bowls and tes be customized?¡±


    ¡°How would you like them customized?¡± the shopkeeper asked.


    ¡°Bring some drawings and transfer those designs onto the bowls and tes¡±


    ¡°Alright,¡± the shopkeeper agreed without hesitation, ¡°But it¡¯ll cost more.¡±


    ¡°No problem,¡± Tong Sang looked at Xiaomai, who said cheerfully, ¡°You can just name your price, shopkeeper.¡±


    Tong Sang¡¯s idea was exactly what she wanted!


    These are things they use every day, they should customize to fit their own taste!


    Since they decided to customize, they could only buy some ordinary coarse porcin bowls and tes for now. After buying the bowls and dishes, they needed to buy rice and flour. Other than her and Tong Sang¡¯s room, the other rooms in the house werepletely empty.


    After buying the rice and flour, they bought some other essentials for their home. The bullock cart was piled high with their purchases, and the three did not return to the vige until dusk.


    Xiaomai made a quick dinner, and after dinner, she took Dami back to the Qiao Family home.


    Then they returned to the quiet Tong Family home.


    A candle was lit in the kitchen and another one in the room, adding light to the pitch-ck night.


    Of course, it was iparable to modern lighting, but she had adjusted to it. She held Tong Sang¡¯s hand with one hand and stretched the other out, ¡°Finally, we have a home that ispletely ours.¡±


    She couldn¡¯t hide the joy in her voice, causing Tong Sang to break into a smile as well.


    He also extended his arm but then, after a moment, turned around, embraced Xiaomai, and leaned in to kiss her lips.


    Xiaomai opened her lips to wee his gentle kiss.


    She knew he was not in a good mood, so she would help him forget about all those troubles.


    The two of them didn¡¯t even care about taking a bath, they held onto each other and went back to their room. They couldn¡¯t bear to break their kiss even for a moment.


    How can one ease the worries?


    Only through lovemaking.

 Chapter 613: 613

    Chapter 613: Chapter 613


    Only the two of them were left in the house, and Qiao Xiaomai no longer felt embarrassed.


    Tong Sang clearly liked to hear her voice, holding her tightly, whispering in her ear, ¡°Xiaomai, Xiaomai¡­.¡±


    As if he had lost all othernguage, those two words were the only thing left in his mind.


    She was the only one left in his eyes.


    She loved him.


    And as she wished, the young man before her finally, wholly, belonged to her.


    The insatiable greed of the Tong Family had pushed him into her arms,pletely into her arms.


    She hadn¡¯t schemed or plotted anything; the Tong Family had actually helped her.


    Thinking of this, she couldn¡¯t help but want tough.


    The joy in her heart spread to her face, making her look like a blooming spring flower, the adorable dimples by her mouth making Tong Sang¡¯s gaze deepen.<div>


    Qiao Xiaomai held onto his sturdy shoulders tightly with her arms as white as snow, feeling his strength and gentleness with an even brighter smile on her face.


    She knew he wasn¡¯t happy, but on this matter, she really couldn¡¯t force herself to be as distressed as he was.


    The two needing to vent their emotions kept it up until midnight. Tong Sang was venting the indescribable stress in his heart; Qiao Xiaomai was expressing the joy that made her feel like jumping even when walking.


    Once the room quieted down, Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s fair skin was full of marks; Tong Sang had arguably been a bit rough.


    He looked guilty, asking, ¡°Did it hurt?¡±


    ¡°Considering how loud I was, do you think it hurt?¡± Qiao Xiaomai pped him.


    Her hand hit his skin, making a crisp sound.


    Then Qiao Xiaomai somehow remembered the scene of Tong Xingda pping the Zhang Family¡¯s womanst night, and she couldn¡¯t help but rub the spot she had just pped.


    Tong Xingda totally inherited Tong Tiehu¡¯s straightforward brutality, but at least Tiehu didn¡¯t abuse his family, making him slightly better than Xingda.


    But Tong Sang didn¡¯t inherit this trait at all; he was stable and calm.


    ¡°Don¡¯t take a bath, just go to sleep like this,¡± Qiao Xiaomai clung tightly to him, her body feelingnguid and not wanting to move.


    And Tong Sang¡¯s body¡­.


    She would see what it looked like tomorrow.


    ¡°Go to sleep soon!¡± she urged.


    At this moment, Tong Sang actually just wanted to hold Qiao Xiaomai. Noticing that she didn¡¯t seem ufortable, he followed her instructions, waving his hand to extinguish the candle.


    The room fell into darkness.


    The curtains were drawn, and the moonlight outside could not prate. The room was so dark that they couldn¡¯t see anything.


    In the silence and darkness, the two held each other, listening to each other¡¯s breathing, and soon fell asleep.


    As she fell asleep, Qiao Xiaomai did not notice the abnormal urrence in her space. A milky-white substance appeared and quickly vanished in the water, causing the bruises on her body to fade rapidly.<div>


    The next day, Qiao Xiaomai woke up on time ording to her biological clock, feeling refreshed and invigorated.


    Less than two hours of sleep did not affect herplexion at all.


    But Tong Sang was still asleep.


    She blinked, a bad feeling surging in her heart.<div>


    Could it be¡­


    He shouldn¡¯t be this weak¡­


    [Now that the Xiaomai¡¯s Spiritual Spring will no longer upgrade, once Sang¡¯s body absorbs all the spiritual energy from the Water Drop Pendant, the Spiritual Spring will be a real Spiritual Spring drop~]

 Chapter 582: 582: Block Her at the Door

    Chapter 582: Block Her at the Door


    As soon as Zhu Cuiying began filling Zhu Hongyun¡¯s head with all sorts of negative talk about Qiao Xiaomai, Zhu Hongyun already had an unfavorable opinion of her.


    Afterwards, because of Qiao Xiaomai, Zhu Hongyun found himself growing irritated on several asions.


    However, as long as Qiao Xiaomai was not mentioned, the atmosphere at home was still quite pleasant.


    But then, the royal decree had arrived ordering the confiscation of their family property. This order stripped away the illusion of harmony that had prevailed in their home.


    Underneath the mask, everyone¡¯s hidden agendas wereid bare.


    Even if their lifestyle eventually returned to its former state, could they really forget the discord, no, the filth of this period?


    No, they could not forget. Each time they thought of it, they would always feel strange.


    Therefore, the atmosphere at home could never return to what it once was.


    ¡°They won¡¯t stop doing things because of my difficulties, my distress does not factor into their considerations. But you, you consider my feelings, you do not initiate any scheme, which is already a relief.¡±


    The person he loves on one side, his family on the other, Qiao Xiaomai only responds but never initiates trouble. This allowed him relief.<div>


    As the youngest in the family, he had no control over anyone¡¯s actions.


    Qiao Xiaomai actively thinking on his behalf was very nice.


    Upon hearing this, Qiao Xiaomai blinked her clear, peach blossom eyes, ¡°Do you think I¡¯m selfish?¡±


    ¡°Not selfish, reciprocation is equitable.¡±


    Looking at how his mother and sisters-inw behaved, asking Qiao Xiaomai to be tolerant with love is a lot to ask of her.


    Reciprocation is equitable.


    Qiao Xiaomai processed these four characters in her mind and began tough, ¡°A wise person.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m d you could tell me these things.¡±


    The ox cart was parked in the back alley of the Extreme vor Residence. Seeing that no one was around, Tong Sang lifted Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s hand and kissed it, ¡°Between husband and wife, we should always be open and transparent, with no reservations.¡±


    At his words, Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s smile widened, ¡°Indeed.¡±


    ¡°Shall we go home?¡± asked Tong Sang.


    ¡°Aren¡¯t we going to confront her at the entrance of the Zuixian Building?¡± Qiao Xiaomai said.


    ¡°Let¡¯s not, I¡¯m afraid it would expose the informants from the Extreme vor Residence,¡± replied Tong Sang.


    ¡°What if she stubbornly refuses to admit itter? How about we pretend to go to the Zuixian Building to buy something?¡± Qiao Xiaomai questioned.


    Thinking about Zhu Hongyun¡¯s possible reaction, Tong Sang nodded, ¡°Sounds good.¡±


    ¡°Then let¡¯s go, buy some abalone, shark¡¯s fin, and sea cucumber to cook Buddha Jumps Over the Wall,¡± she suggested.


    She was preparing such a grand dish to show her sincerity when she unexpectedly caught Zhu Hongyun selling the recipe for braised pork to the Zuixian Building. This sudden discovery was like a bucket of cold water dumped on her sincere heart.


    The plot was perfect.


    Then, Tong Sang straightened up, snapped the reins, the ox lifted its hooves, and they started towards their destination.<div>


    It was mid-afternoon and the sun was zing hot. Qiao Xiaomai held an umbre for them both as they quickly reached the Zuixian Building.


    They didn¡¯t go to the back door of the Zuixian Building, instead they parked the ox cart at the entrance. It was off-peak mealtime, so they weren¡¯t worried about blocking the entryway.


    Everyone knew Qiao Xiaomai and Tong Sang at the Zuixian Building. Seeing them arrive, the waiter approached them with a ttering smile, ¡°Ah, what can I assist you two with?¡±


    ¡°Where¡¯s Shopkeeper Zhou? I¡¯d like to buy some things from him,¡± Qiao Xiaomai replied with an equally radiant smile.@@novelbin@@<div>


    ¡°The shopkeeper¡¯s in the kitchen, I¡¯ll go and fetch him.¡±


    The waiter said, and hustled off to the kitchen.


    In no time at all, Shopkeeper Zhou came out, his face beaming like a flower, showing no sign of anything unusual.


    ¡°Miss Qiao, what a rare visit, it¡¯s been a long time,¡± Shopkeeper Zhou gestured for Qiao Xiaomai and Tong Sang to take a seat.

 Chapter 615: 615: I Will Come Here for Meals From Now On

    Chapter 615: Chapter 615: I Will Come Here for Meals From Now On


    Tong Xingda has arrived.


    Tong Sang put down his bowl and stood up to open the door.


    Outside, Tong Xingda had a towel around his neck and a fan in his hand, fanning himself and wiping sweat as he walked.


    Seeing the courtyard door open, he stepped in and asked, ¡°Have you cooked yet?¡±


    ¡°Yes, we have.¡±


    ¡°What food?¡±


    ¡°Pork fat mixed with rice.¡±


    ¡°What?¡± Tong Xingda was confused as he had never heard of this way of eating before.


    ¡°It¡¯s the leftover fat from cooking oil mixed with white rice,¡± Tong Sang exined.


    ¡°You two are eating this after a long day?¡± Tong Xingda asked as he stepped into the kitchen.<div>


    A pleasant aroma filled the air. Tong Xingda took a deep breath, his dissatisfaction fading slightly. He nced at Qiao Xiaomai by the stove, ¡°Give me a bowl. And did you make that Sour Plum Soup today, Xiaomai?¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai called out to him, and started to spoon out some white rice, ¡°I didn¡¯t make it today.¡±


    The reason she used to make Sour Plum Soup was for Tong Sang to drink. Now, with just the two of them, drinking from the pond would suffice.


    ¡°Make a pot for tomorrow. I need to water the fields, and you can bring it to the fields,¡± Tong Xingda ordered.


    ¡°Alright,¡± she replied.


    Tong Sang was also going the next day, so she could just take it along.


    Anyway, they were family, a pot of Sour Plum Soup wouldn¡¯t make much of a difference.


    ¡°How¡¯s mother doing?¡± she asked as she handed him a bowl.


    ¡°She¡¯s awake, just lying in bed.¡± Tong Xingda took the bowl, grabbed a pair of chopsticks, and headed out of the kitchen to the tree, where he began to eat heartily.


    The pork fat was vored with condiments, tasting absolutely delicious. The aroma of the white rice was tantalizing. Thebination was no lesser than any delicacy.


    Tong Xingda gulped down half a bowl to satiate his hunger, and thenmented, ¡°Xiaomai, your cooking is quite good.¡±


    With Zhang¡¯s wife in bed and Zhu Hongyun not around, Qian and Li Rou were in charge of the meals at the new house.


    Having never tasted Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s cooking before, he didn¡¯t think there was anything wrong with their food. But after tasting the dishes prepared by her, he found their meals almost inedible.


    He had nned toe over at noon, but got dyed by Tong Tiehu who had asked him to collect firewood on the mountain.


    So, he nned his visit to coincide with dinner after doing all the chores in the evening.


    ¡°Xiaomai, I think I¡¯ll be having my meals here from now on. Remember to cook a little extra,¡± Tong Xingda suggested, although he seemed to have already made up his mind.


    Qiao Xiaomai nodded and smiled in agreement.


    As Tong Sang¡¯s father, she couldn¡¯t refuse him a meal, could she?


    The remark Tong Sang had made about not reaching out unless absolutely necessary was intended for Zhang¡¯s wife. Tong Xingda insisted that it didn¡¯t apply to him. What choice did she and Tong Sang have but to ept?<div>


    ¡°However, sometimes, Sang and I might not be at home,¡± Qiao Xiaomai mentioned.


    ¡°Not at home?¡± Tong Xingda looked at her in confusion.


    ¡°We¡¯re going to County Town the day after tomorrow. We should have some news about the Tingfeng Pavilion we had asked Sang to inquire about,¡± she said.


    ¡°Oh, have you heard news about your mother?¡±<div>


    ¡°We should have.¡±


    ¡°Alright then, I¡¯ll just return home when you¡¯re not around.¡± Tong Xingda replied casually. The distance between the new and old courtyards was not too far, unlike the Qiao Family house, which was a quarter of an hour away.


    Considering the food at the new house was awful, he decided toe here for meals every day.

 Chapter 584: 584: Blocked in the Kitchen

    Chapter 584: Blocked in the Kitchen


    ¡°Sure.¡± Qiao Xiaomai nodded, ¡°Oh yes, I came here with Sang to buy some ingredients for Buddha¡¯s Temptation. Do you have any in stock, Shopkeeper?¡±


    Because Bailu Town is far from the sea, these are all dry goods, which cannot be found in the market. Other than those brought by wealthy students, only the Zuixian Building and Jiweiju had the rest.


    Shopkeeper Zhou understood why Qiao Xiaomai came at this time, turns out she wanted to purchase something.


    He nodded, ¡°Yes, I have plenty. How much would you like, miss?¡±


    ¡°Prepare enough for fifteen people.¡± Qiao Xiaomai instructed.


    Initially, the recipes she sold to Zuixian Building were meant for one person. Now, she said she needs enough for fifteen people, so Shopkeeper Zhou understood immediately, ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll have someone prepare it for you,e, let¡¯s go to the kitchen.¡±


    ¡°Sure.¡± Qiao Xiaomai stood up, followed Shopkeeper Zhou towards the kitchen.


    In the kitchen, Zhu Hongyun was preparing Braised Pork.


    She was following the steps taught by Qiao Xiaomai: cutting the meat, preparing various spices. When Shopkeeper Zhou led Qiao Xiaomai in, Zhu Hongyun was exining the key points to the head chef of Zuixian Building, ¡°That¡¯s it, add water, first boil fiercely on high heat, then stew on low heat for half an hour, once the water has been fully absorbed and turned into a sauce, it¡¯s done.¡±


    As she finished speaking, the surprised voice of Qiao Xiaomai echoed from the entrance, ¡°Eh? Second Sister-inw, why are you here?¡±<div>


    Upon hearing this sound, Zhu Hongyun jolted, just like a rabbit that has been stepped on, immediately jumping up.


    She unbelievably turned around, and indeed saw the figures of Qiao Xiaomai and Tong Sang at the entrance. Her eyes widened in horror and her face was full of fear.@@novelbin@@


    Shopkeeper Zhou was surprised too, ¡°Eh? Miss Qiao, is thisdy your second sister-inw?¡±


    Zhu Hongyun didn¡¯t tell Shopkeeper Zhou about Qiao Xiaomai, so he knew nothing about it. He must deny any rtionship with her at this moment.


    Before Qiao Xiaomai could answer, he promptly pped his thigh, and swiftly exined, ¡°Miss Qiao, it was past lunchtime when thisdy suddenly came by, saying she cooked delicious Braised Pork and wanted to sell the recipe to my Zuixian Building.¡±


    ¡°As the owner of Zuixian Building, I can¡¯t miss out on any good dishes, so I let her try her hand in the kitchen. So it¡¯s true? She¡¯s really your second sister-inw?¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai didn¡¯t bother to discern whether Shopkeeper Zhou was telling the truth or lies. She had a pained expression on her face, her beautiful brows knitted together, ¡°Yes, she¡¯s my second sister-inw. The Braised Pork¡­ I taught her and my elder sister-inw after breakfast. I didn¡¯t expect her toe to Zuixian Building so soon.¡±


    ¡°So that¡¯s what happened!¡± Shopkeeper Zhou eximed, pping his thigh, a look of disbelief appeared on his face, ¡°This is¡­ Miss Qiao, you must know that I had no idea about her identity, if I knew, I definitely wouldn¡¯t have let her try!¡±


    On hearing his words, Qiao Xiaomai merely looked at Zhu Hongyun, saying, ¡°All¡¯s fair in business. You¡¯re running a restaurant, you do what you need to.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s true, but we also have some rapport. If I had known that her Braised Pork was your recipe, I would have definitely informed you.¡± Shopkeeper Zhou made it clear that he was on good terms with Qiao Xiaomai and he was fully on her side.


    Qiao Xiaomai fell silent upon hearing his words.


    Zhu Hongyun was quite frightened at this point. She was annoyed with Tong Eng¡¯s fawning attitude towards Qiao Xiaomai, plus she also needed money badly, which is why she came up with this idea.


    She knew that Qiao Xiaomai had a good rtionship with both Zuixian Building and Jiweiju, so she didn¡¯t mention her identity.


    Isn¡¯t it just pork? Why can Qiao Xiaomai think of it and she couldn¡¯t?


    Who¡¯d have thought that she¡¯d be caught red-handed by Qiao Xiaomai!

 Chapter 585: 585: Isnt This a Thief?

    Chapter 585: Isn¡¯t This a Thief?


    ¡°Sister-inw, this is where you¡¯re wrong. Second brother allowed Xiaomai to teach you how to prepare Braised Pork, intending it to be for our family. Now, you turn around ande to sell the recipe at the Zuixian Building. Is this fair to Xiaomai?¡±


    Seeing Zhu Hongyun so frightened that she couldn¡¯t speak, Tong Sang started talking.


    ¡°Xiaomai has always kept her recipes to herself. Now you have easily sold one here. I¡¯m greatly disappointed at this misconduct,¡± Tong Sang said while slightly shaking his head, ¡°Now what do you suggest we do about this?¡±


    What to do?


    Zhu Hongyun¡¯s nk brain slowly came back to reality.


    What should we do?


    ¡°My mother is very sick, needs treatment and there is an urgent request for money from my mother¡¯s ce, so I reluctantly thought about selling this recipe to raise some money,¡± she finally stammered.


    As soon as she said this, she nodded fiercely, as if clutching a life-saving straw. Yes, that¡¯s exactly how it was!


    ¡°Even if your mother is ill and needs money, it¡¯s not necessary for you to find the money, sister-inw, is it?¡± Tong Sang pointed out her lie, ¡°Besides, even if you wanted to sell the recipe, you should have informed Xiaomai and me beforehand. We taught you the method in the morning and now by noon you¡¯re already selling it. What happened? Did something happen on your mother¡¯s side today?¡±


    ¡°My mother has been sick for a while and I haven¡¯t taken any money for her treatment. It¡¯s been troubling me.¡± The first lie was out, making the rest easier, ¡°As for my mother¡¯s family, no one came today. It was something you and Xiaomai mentioned on the day of our marriage.¡±<div>


    ¡°So you¡¯ve forgotten about your bond with Xiaomai to fulfill your filial piety?¡± Tong Sang asked, emphasizing the key point, ¡°Regardless of the reason, you should have informed Xiaomai, shouldn¡¯t you?¡±


    ¡°You two havee to town, so there was no one I could find to tell,¡± Zhu Hongyun¡¯s face slowly lost its fear as she calmed down.


    Hearing this, Tong Sang asked again,¡± Has your mother¡¯s condition worsened significantly?¡±


    ¡°No.¡±


    ¡°If your mother¡¯s health isn¡¯t in immediate danger and the matter on your mother¡¯s side was mentioned only a few days ago and isn¡¯t urgent, then why are you so desperate to sell the recipe in town?¡± Tong Sang questioned.


    ¡°Why are we wasting so much time talking about this here at the Zuixian Building? This isn¡¯t our home, we are just providing entertainment for others.¡± Qiao Xiaomai spoke out with a serious face, ¡°Sister-inw, let¡¯s go home and discuss this with Grandfather.¡±


    ¡°If there¡¯s anything you can¡¯t say here, say it in front of Grandfather.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai turned to Shopkeeper Zhou, ¡°What do you think, Shopkeeper?¡±


    ¡°This, this¡­¡± Shopkeeper Zhou looked troubled, ¡°She already taught the method.¡±@@novelbin@@


    ¡°Then give the silver as previously agreed, but give it to me,¡± insisted Qiao Xiaomai.


    ¡°Fifty taels. Since the recipe was taught by Xiaomai, the silver should naturally be given to her.¡± Shopkeeper Zhou hastily agreed.


    For simply Zhu Hongyun, he would never choose to offend Qiao Xiaomai.


    ¡°Alright, let¡¯s leave the Milk Candy recipe here for now, I need to take second sister-inw back home to sort out family matters,¡± Qiao Xiaomai proposed.


    ¡°You handle your business first,¡± Shopkeeper Zhouplied.


    Qiao Xiaomai thanked Shopkeeper Zhou, then looked at Zhu Hongyun, ¡°Sister-inw, let¡¯s go.¡±


    Staring at Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s unexpressive face, Zhu Hongyun¡¯s just recuperated senses blurred again.


    She doesn¡¯t believe her reasoning and wants to take her home?


    Thinking about the scolding and roaring from Tong Tiehu, she involuntarily clenched her teeth.


    ¡°All this fuss over a Braised Pork recipe and fifty taels of silver. Look at your attitudes! You treat me like a thief! I¡¯m your sister-inw, I¡¯m part of your family!¡±<div>


    Qiao Xiaomai¡±¡­¡±


    She had a moment of silence before counter-questioning ¡°Don¡¯t you think your behavior did make you look like a thief, second sister-inw?¡±

 Chapter 618: 618: Arrival at Linzhang Village

    Chapter 618: Chapter 618: Arrival at Linzhang Vige


    If anyone dared to discuss this private matter in front of her or any member of her family, there would be hell to pay.


    Now, being wealthy and powerful, if she dered that Zhuang L¨¹he went out to work, then that was just what it was.


    Otherwise, she would make sure the one who said otherwise regretted it deeply.


    Upon hearing Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s words, everyone tactfully agreed, wishing her a smooth journey and a peaceful return with her family.


    Having bid farewell to everyone, Qiao Xiaomai and Tong Sang each drove an ox cart, embarking on the journey with three adults and one child.


    Qiao Changshun was groggy and unfit to drive the cart, so Qiao Xiaomai let him sleep on the cart.


    Last night, she had asked Tong Sang to modify the ox cart. They had attached four poles to the sides of the cart with cloth strips, and pulled a thick piece of woven hemp cloth over the poles to create a rudimentary, open-top ox cart.


    The woven hemp shielded them from the zing sun rather effectively.


    The road was smooth, and the ox cart did not travel swiftly. The swaying motion put Qiao Changshun to sleep.


    They did not stop in Bailu Town, heading straight onwards until they reached County Town by noon.<div>


    After having lunch in the County Town, the four travelers continued their journey.


    The roads from here on were tough, like the dirt roads elsewhere. Besides being narrow, they were full of potholes.


    The open-top ox cart jolted heavily on the road, slowing down their speed.


    Luckily, the vige where Zhuang L¨¹he lived was still within Beiyang County, at the border between Beiyang County and Huai¡¯an County. Although the ox cart was slow, they were able to reach her vige by dusk.


    The vige was named Linzhang Vige, and all the vigers had thest name Zhan.


    The man who bought Zhuang L¨¹he¡¯s hand in marriage was named Zhan Jin. As Zhan Jin originally knew a bit of hunting, and given that he owned some farnd, leven was quite alright.


    However, during a hunting excursion several years ago, he was pecked in the eye by a wild chicken. Since then, he had be one-eyed and could not hunt.


    He vented his frustration on his wife, to the point where he once beat her to death in a fit of drunken rage.


    In the countryside, such matters were often ignored if no one raised aint. As it happened, his wife was an orphan with neither family nor rtives, and this incident was thereby quietly buried.


    Zhan Jin realized that he could not manage without a woman in the house, but his reputation for domestic violence deterred people from introducing any women to him, and none dared to marry him. So, he decided to buy a wife.


    That was when Zhuang L¨¹he came into the picture.


    As they were near the vige, Tong Sang halted the ox cart, ¡°Xiaomai, you and Dami should wait here. Dad and I will handle it.¡±


    It was evening, and though it was not dark yet, having Xiaomai wait at an unfamiliar ce could be handled with her level of martial arts skills.


    ¡°I will return with dad as soon as possible. If anythinges up, shout out loud.¡± He drew out his soft sword wrapped around his waist and ced it on Xiaomai¡¯s ox cart.


    Linzhang Vige was quite small with only a few dozen families. As such, Xiaomai would be clearly audible from the entrance of the vige.


    ¡°Alright,¡± Xiaomai nodded, holding Dami in her arms. ¡°You and dad go on, we¡¯ll be fine.¡±


    Given the vigers¡¯ martial art skills, she could handle ten of them single-handedly.


    Tong Sang gave further instructions before setting off into the vige with his cart.


    The dozens of families were split into two streets. Zhan Jin¡¯s house was in the middle of the vige. At dusk, every household was cooking dinner, with the sunset providing a peaceful backdrop to the scene.<div>


    Yet, the apparent tranquility hid a grotesque reality. Remembering Zhan Jin¡¯s deeds, Xiaomai lost interest in the scenery.


    She unwrapped the wax paper holding the Scallion Pancake and poured a bowl of water from the y pot, offering Dami his dinner.

 Chapter 587: She is Narrow-Minded

    Chapter 587: She is Narrow-Minded


    ¡°Every family has its own demons,¡± Shopkeeper Zhou said, forcing a smile.


    He was both surprised and frustrated by what he heard.


    Qiao Xiaomai, a gold mine, had to endure all these things. Tsk.


    ¡°Shall we make milk candy now?¡± Xiaomai didn¡¯t care about what Shopkeeper Zhou thought. Her previous pleasant remark was mere politeness. After fighting with her useless dad and stepmother for so many years, the notion of not airing one¡¯s dirtyundry had long been trampled beneath her.


    What could not be shared? She preferred frankness anyway.


    Shopkeeper Zhou merely sighed. Upon hearing her words, he discarded his stray thoughts and said with a smile, ¡°Okay, what ingredients do we need? I¡¯ll have someone prepare them.¡±


    So, thereafter, Xiaomai stayed in Zuixian Building to make milk candies, and Tong Sang went in pursuit of Zhu Hongyun.


    An hourter, Tong Sang returned.


    Xiaomai was waiting for him in the main hall of the Zuixian Building, toting a basket on her back.


    Upon seeing him enter, Xiaomai put down the melon seeds in her hand, ¡°How¡¯d it go?¡±


    She pulled out a handkerchief from her bosom and motioned him to wipe his sweat.


    ¡°I saw her return to Zhu Vige with my own eyes. She hired an ox-cart.¡±


    Xiaomai raised an eyebrow upon hearing this, ¡°Alright, let¡¯s go home.¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡± Tong Sang responded, casually wiping the beads of sweat on his forehead and stuffing the handkerchief back into his pocket.


    The two bid farewell to Shopkeeper Zhou and climbed onto the ox-cart together.


    Once they had left Bailu Town and saw that there were no people on the road, Xiaomai immediately took a bowl of water out of her space, ¡°Drink up.¡±


    Tong Sang had been feeling weak all day. Despite resting half of the day, he had exhausted himself under the burning sun. During that time, not only his face had turned red, but his lips also became extremely pale.


    It hurt her to see him like that.


    That damned Zhu Hongyun!


    Tong Sang took the bowl and emptied it in one gulp, ¡°Another one please.¡±


    After drinking two bowls of spiritual spring water, Tong Sang¡¯s slightly flushed face returned to normal. With water droplets still hanging on his lips, Xiaomai looked at him, leaned forward, and nted a hearty kiss on his mouth. ¡°You dummy.¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡± Tong Sang was startled by this sudden attack.


    Even now, when there were no people around, isn¡¯t such an action a bit too bold?


    Seeing his reaction, Xiaomai gave him a gentle p, ¡°I told you, you¡¯re a fool. You really believe these people will appreciate your kindness?¡±


    ¡°Oh that.¡± Tong Sang regained hisposure andughed it off, ¡°It¡¯s just a small effort.¡±


    Being family, you can¡¯t always distinguish so clearly.


    Since his strength was greater, he should exert more effort.


    Seeing his carefree attitude, Xiaomai couldn¡¯t help but roll her eyes, ¡°I¡¯m not as generous as you. If someone treats me badly, even if they end up being a beggar and me a richdy, I¡¯ll still want to retaliate.¡±


    She won¡¯t let go of the past grievances just because she has be stronger.


    ¡°You¡¯re already a richdy.¡± Tong Sangughed.


    His attempt to distract her was weak. Xiaomai scoffed, ¡°That¡¯s true, you see how both Shopkeeper He and Zhou still calls me Miss Qiao.¡±


    Technically, since she¡¯s now married, she¡¯s no longer a Miss and should be addressed as Lady Tong.


    But between her and Tong Sang, she was the dominant one. So she¡¯s just Xiaomai, not Lady Tong.


    ¡°So I¡¯ll really be working for you in the future. Please provide for me,¡± Tong Sang joked.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯ll definitely provide for you.¡± Xiaomai patted his shoulder and then leaned on him, umbre in hand, ¡°Let¡¯s go home and see what grandpa has to say.¡±@@novelbin@@

 Chapter 588: From Now on, She No Longer Exists in the Tong Family

    Chapter 588: From Now on, She No Longer Exists in the Tong Family


    ¡°Mom¡¯s illness hasn¡¯t improved, so we can¡¯t split the family as nned. Therefore, I hope grandpa can step in and reason with mom. Yang Ye is still in town.¡±


    She used the incident with Zhu Hongyun to threaten the Zhangs, hoping they would speed up their recovery and split up the family.


    If not, she might start a fight with Yang Ye instead.


    She is indeed narrow-minded.


    ¡°Agreed.¡± Tong Sang had no objections.


    The two of them then headed home in a bullock cart after a day¡¯s work forced by Tong Tiehu on the Tong family. Today, Tong Tiehu let them rest due to his change of heart.


    When Qiao Xiaomai got back home, she hopped off the bullock cart and nced at Tong Tiehu¡¯s room, calling out, ¡°Grandpa? Where¡¯s grandpa?¡±


    ¡°He is at the new house.¡± Li Rou, who was in a good mood, answered from inside her room.


    The shop there only earned a few copper coins a day. Aside from Tong Tiehu who asionally visits, no one else seemed to bother.


    ¡°Sang, go bring Grandpa back,¡± Qiao Xiaomai said to Tong Sang.


    @@novelbin@@


    Tong Sang grunted in agreement,s didn¡¯t get off the cart. He put down the basket of ingredients for Buddha¡¯s Temptation and drove the bullock cart to the new house.


    Li Rou noticed an unusual edge in Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s voice, so she stepped out of her room and asked at the doorway, ¡°Xiaomai, what¡¯s wrong?¡±


    ¡°Sang and I went to town and, by chance, saw Zhu Hongyun selling the recipe for braised pork at the kitchen in the Zuixian Building. But instead, Zhu Hongyun used Sang and me of treating her like a thief. She¡¯s gone home now, and I need to have Grandpa settle the matter,¡± Qiao Xiaomai exined the situation.


    Li Rou was shocked upon hearing this.


    Truth be told, while she wanted to take advantage of Qiao Xiaomai and fill her own pockets as much as possible¡­


    She¡¯d never do something like selling a recipe that Qiao Xiaomai had taught her only in the morning.


    And then she used Qiao Xiaomai and Tong Sang of bullying others?


    At that moment, Li Rou realized she had underestimated her second sister-inw. Very well, that¡¯s a strong argument.


    ¡°It¡¯s so irresponsible for Hongyun to do such a thing. Wait until Grandpaes back. He will support you,¡± she said to Qiao Xiaomai.


    ¡°And where¡¯s my second brother?¡± asked Qiao Xiaomai.


    When she and Tong Sang had left for town earlier, Tong Erng and Zhu Hongyun were at home.


    ¡°He¡¯s gone up the mountain to gather firewood.


    ¡°Then I¡¯ll wait for Grandpa to return,¡± Qiao Xiaomai said as she moved towards the kitchen, washing and soaking whatever necessary.


    Whatever Zhu Hongyun was up to, it wouldn¡¯t affect her mood for Buddha¡¯s Temptation.


    Soon, Tong Tiehu came back with a sullen expression. Once he returned home and saw Qiao Xiaomai busily working, he looked remorseful. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Xiaomai.¡±


    It was disappointing that such a troublesome thing happened just three days after they got married.


    ¡°As long as Grandpa doesn¡¯t think that I¡¯m the one bullying Zhu Hongyun, then I¡¯ll feel better,¡± said Qiao Xiaomai.


    ¡°She¡¯s an ignorant and stupid woman. Don¡¯t stoop to her level. Now that she¡¯s gone home, let her stay there. From now on, the Tong family won¡¯t have anything to do with her,¡± said Tong Tiehu, ¡°We can¡¯t let one bad apple spoil the whole barrel.¡±


    Hearing this, Qiao Xiaomai nodded and looked towards Tong Sang.


    Tong Sang gave her an imperceptible nod, implying that he had told Tong Tiehu his side of the story. Tong Tiehu will talk to the Zhang family about this.


    Upon seeing this, Qiao Xiaomai refrained from speaking any further.


    It seems that the Buddha¡¯s Temptation couldn¡¯t be made today. However, yesterday Tong Sang had bought a hind leg of pork, intended for making bacon. She decided to cook it now instead.

 Chapter 589: Tong Erlang’s Reaction

    Chapter 589: Tong Eng¡¯s Reaction


    In the evening, Er Lang from the Tong Family returned, slinging a small bundle of firewood over his shoulder, just enough to make a meal.


    At this point, the fragrance of meat was everywhere within the courtyard. With the enhanced Spiritual Spring water and Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s cooking skills, the taste of the cooked meat could only be described with one word: excellent!


    Tong Er Lang took a few deep breaths, carelessly threw the firewood behind the door, and joyfully skipped off to wash his hands.


    He was thest one toe back. Now that he was back, it was time for the Tong family to eat.


    Tong Er Lang scooped a few bones into his bowl, along with some meat soup. He always said that the best way to satisfy craving was to chew directly on the bones. Eating game was simply a touch of meatiness; in front of the vorful cooked meat, game was definitely not considered as meat!


    He devoured a bowl of meat and drank the meat soup, suppressing the hunger in his stomach. He finally noticed something, ¡°Eh? Where¡¯s Xiaoyun? Why isn¡¯t Xiaoyun here?¡±


    He looked around with his empty bowl, but didn¡¯t see Zhu Hongyun¡¯s figure.


    He quickly looked towards Tong Tiehu, who was sitting under the tree, ¡°Grandfather, where¡¯s Xiaoyun? Hasn¡¯t shee back from town yet?¡±


    At the sound of this, Tong Tiehu lifted his eyelids and nced at him, ¡°What would your wife be doing in town?¡±


    ¡°She embroidered three handkerchiefs and went to sell them in town,¡± Tong Er Lang answered.


    Upon hearing this, Tong Tiehu¡¯s gloomy face lightened slightly, ¡°You really don¡¯t know what she actually went to do?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, she indeed went to sell the embroidery, why hasn¡¯t shee back yet?¡± Tong Er Lang spoke while running to the door with his empty bowl, looking in both directions.


    There were passers-by, but no sign of Zhu Hongyun.


    ¡°What could she be up to?¡± Tong Er Lang muttered. ¡°Grandfather, how about I go to town to look for her?¡±


    As he spoke, he looked towards Tong Sang, who was also sitting under the tree. ¡°And Sang, Sang knows Kung Fu, Sang,e with me?¡±


    ¡°No need to go look, she¡¯s gone back to her mother¡¯s house.¡± Tong Tiehu grunted, exining Zhu Hongyun¡¯s actions.


    Tong Er Lang was dumbstruck. The coarse porcin bowl in his hand dropped to the ground with a ¡®tter¡¯, shattering into several fragments.


    ¡°No way¡­¡± he mumbled. He was speaking to himself, and also to everyone present. ¡°It can¡¯t be that bad¡­¡±


    ¡°Seems like you¡¯re not blind after all.¡± Upon hearing this, Tong Tiehumanded with a cold face, ¡°Since you know that what she did was wrong, let her stay at her mother¡¯s house. You are not allowed to go find her. If she dares to step into this house again, I¡¯ll kick both of you out.¡±


    Upon hearing these words, Tong Er Lang became anxious. ¡°But she¡¯s my wife!¡±


    ¡°Then go find her. Anyhow, the Tong family will notck you. From now on, whether you two suffer hardship or livefortably, it has nothing to do with the Tong family.¡± The words of Tong Tiehu were cold and merciless.


    Tong Er Lang pursed his lips and looked towards Tong Xingda, who was squatting at the door. ¡°Father¡­¡±


    Tong Xingda was also nibbling a bone. Without lifting his head, he replied, ¡°Just divorce such a stupid woman. She¡¯s a troublemaker. Keeping her around would only cause trouble.¡±


    ¡°Father!¡± The volume of Tong Er Lang¡¯s voice rose uncontrobly.


    @@novelbin@@


    ¡°Why are you shouting?¡± Tong Xingda, seeming impatient, continued. ¡°She caused this mess and you¡¯re still trying to defend her? She¡¯s been in our house for several years and hasn¡¯t given birth to a grandson. Besides eating and grooming all day, now she¡¯s done this. What¡¯s the use of keeping her around?¡±


    ¡°If you really can¡¯t stand it, go find her. But once you step out of this door, don¡¯t expect toe back. After all, we still have your elder brother and Sang.¡±


    The words of Tong Xingda were colder and more ruthless than those of Tong Tiehu.


    Tong Er Lang stood dumbfounded at the door, motionless.

 Chapter 590: 590: Gentle Persuasion

    Chapter 590: Gentle Persuasion


    Seeing this, Tong Xingda yelled, ¡°Only when faced with a crisis, do we see which son can be relied upon. What the hell use are you two as a couple?¡±


    ¡°The eldest son and his wife have been managing the business the entire time. But what about you two? You¡¯ve been around for almost twenty years. What have you done for this family?¡±


    ¡°You haven¡¯t done a damn thing but cause embarrassment, yet you dare to raise your voice at me ¨C pretty cocky of you!¡±


    As Tong Xingda¡¯s voice grew louder, he turned to Tong San Lang, ¡°San Lang, beat him for me! A good beating will straighten him out!¡±


    He was busy eating meat and could not get up.


    Tong San Lang stood up as he heard the word and walked over to Tong Er Lang. Seeing Tong Er Lang subtly shrink back, he shook his head lightly, grabbed Tong Er Lang¡¯s arm and said, ¡°Second brother, let¡¯s walk outside.¡±


    ¡°What are you doing?¡± Tong Er Lang, akin to being stung by a scorpion, fiercely broke his grip and stepped back several steps.


    Tong San Lang, seeing this, furrowed his brows, forcibly grabbed Tong Er Lang¡¯s arm, and pulled him out of the house.


    Tong Er Lang screamed and struggled all the way.


    Qiao Xiaomai watched this scene and lowered her head to continue gnawing on her bone.<div>


    Tong Tiehu looked at her and somewhat embarrassedly said, ¡°I spoiled him at an early age.¡±


    Truth to be told, he was not a good father or grandfather. He was simple and brutal in his deeds, and he didn¡¯t do a good job teaching either Tong Xingda or his sons. Only Tong San Lang turned out alright, but the credit should go to Deng Chun.


    These fools pulling stupid stunts now had really tarnished his reputation.


    Upon hearing this, Qiao Xiaomai smiled, dimples showing on her cheeks, ¡°They¡¯re not bad at heart.¡±


    At her words, Tong Tiehu sighed, ¡°I am wrong in my judgement.¡±


    When it came to choosing wives for himself or his sons and grandsons, he only chose the women who seemed better than the Tong family and had a good reputation.


    But now, the reality told him, these women were all wearing masks in the past.


    ¡°Things will improve.¡± said Qiao Xiaomai.


    Tong Tiehu sighed again at her words.


    Improve?


    Even if things do get better, thinking about the recent incidents would always leave a sour taste. These memories could never be erased.


    It¡¯s probably best to separate the households early, so these people will not continue to harm Qiao Xiaomai and Tong San Lang.


    The courtyard fell silent. Li Rou, sitting at her doorway, and Qian Shi, simrly sitting under a tree, seemed not to hear the conversation between Qiao Xiaomai and Tong Tiehu. They were eating the meat cooked by Qiao Xiaomai and couldn¡¯t voice their thoughts.


    After a while, just as Qiao Xiaomai finished gnawing the bones in her bowl and was ready to drink some meat soup, Tong San Lang and Tong Er Lang returned together.


    Tong San Lang looked calm.


    Tong Er Lang was deted, but his face showed no signs of having been beaten. Passing by the door and seeing the bowl he had broken earlier, he squatted down to pick up the pieces.


    After throwing the pieces away, he returned to the kitchen, got a bowl, and continued eating.


    Thus, the meal ended rather peacefully.


    After dinner, Tong San Lang went to do the dishes and then to heat the water.<div>


    After both he and Qiao Xiaomai had bathed, it was still early. The two of them usually had a secret rendezvouste at night. At this hour, of course, they didn¡¯t feel sleepy.


    But the outrageous activities ofst night couldn¡¯t go on. ording to Qiao Xiaomai, they had to abstain for at least another week before resuming this pleasurable activity.@@novelbin@@


    Tong San Lang ¡°¡­¡±


    He had just tasted the sweetness, but because his own body couldn¡¯t handle it, he had to abstain¡­<div>


    If this got out, he¡¯d be so embarrassed that he¡¯d want to crawl into a hole.


    It was a huge blow to a man¡¯s pride!

 Chapter 591: 591: A Beating is Enough

    Chapter 591: A Beating is Enough


    ¡°What kind of man are you? You¡¯re only seventeen, just a teenager.¡± Qiao Xiaomai patted him, ¡°You¡¯re still growing, doing too much isn¡¯t good for you.¡±


    Tong Sang, ¡°¡­I¡¯m tall enough already.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai had to stand on her tiptoes to kiss him.


    ¡°Anyway, hold it in!¡± Qiao Xiaomai patted himfortingly on the chest, changing the subject, ¡°What did you say to second brother?¡±


    Hearing this, Tong Sang, somewhat reluctantly, also groped her buttocks before answering, ¡°I told him to back down. After all, this matter is second sister-inw¡¯s fault. After your and grandfather¡¯s anger dies down a bit, we¡¯ll bring second sister-inw back.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai. ¡°¡­Is that how you persuaded him?¡±


    ¡°He loves second sister-inw like I love you. How else can I say it?¡± As Tong Sang said this, seeing her eyes wide open, he couldn¡¯t help but lean in to lightly kiss her lips, ¡°I remember still how desperate second brother was to marry her when grandfather didn¡¯t approve of their marriage.¡±


    Imagining the spectacle of Tong Eng throwing a tantrum, Qiao Xiaomai rolled her eyes, ¡°So you would only notice I¡¯m not home after you finish a whole bowl of bones?¡±


    At that, Tong Sang raised an eyebrow, ¡°Second brother is a bit absent-minded.¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s simply thoughtless.¡±<div>


    What to do if one is thoughtless and disobedient?


    A few beatings should do the trick.


    And you¡¯re actually coaxing and persuading him, who in the world is the older brother and who¡¯s the younger one?


    Sensing Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s dissatisfaction, Tong Sang couldn¡¯t help but take her hand, ¡°Change takes time.¡±


    ¡°Alright, alright. I like you, you make sense. Let¡¯s sleep now, we have to go back tomorrow.¡± Qiao Xiaomai attempted to sit up to blow out the candle.


    Seeing this, Tong Sang hugged her with one arm, and with the other arm, he blew out a gust of wind towards the candle, then he rolled over, cing Xiaomai inside, ¡°I like you, what you say makes sense too.¡±


    Hearing this, Qiao Xiaomai rolled her eyes in the dark, ¡°What great logic.¡±


    At that, Tong Sang chuckled, rubbing his forehead against hers lightly, ¡°I love you, sleep.¡±


    He didn¡¯t really have any feelings for Zhu Hongyun, so he was able to confront her at the Zuixian Building in front of many people.


    But his second brother, Tong Eng was very important to him, he wanted to change his ways, even if the chances were slim, he wanted to give it a try.


    However, his actions would definitely make Qiao Xiaomai feel wronged.


    Ah¡­ In other aspects, he needs to love her more.


    The next day, Qiao Xiaomai got up before dawn, as she nned to make Buddha Jumps Over the Wall, which would take some time.


    When she got up, naturally Tong Sang got up too. After Xiaomai carefully examined hisplexion, finding everything in order, she agreed to let him help with the cooking.


    So when the Tong family woke up, the rich aroma of food wafted through the courtyard again.


    Tong Eng pursed his lips, did his best to ignore the mncholy in his heart, and quickly got up to wash and dress.


    First fill the stomach before thinking about anything else!@@novelbin@@


    After breakfast, Qiao Xiaomai and Tong Sang carried half a pot of Buddha Jumps Over the Wall and returned home. The beans at home were ready to be culled, so Tong Dng harnessed the ox cart to take them to town, while Tong Eng tactfully grabbed a rope and continued up the mountain.


    Ah, yesterday¡¯s firewood wasn¡¯t enough for breakfast, so Tong Sang had to borrow from the neighbors, today he needed to gather more.<div>


    Tong Tiehu had Li Rou and the Qian family look after the shop, so he himself carried a bench and sat outside the door of Zhang¡¯s room.


    ¡°You know about what happened with second son¡¯s wife yesterday. Let¡¯s not bring that up now, just focus on getting better, then we can separate households.¡±

 Chapter 624: 624: Do You Hate Them This Much?

    Chapter 624: Chapter 624: Do You Hate Them This Much?


    ¡°For something they do not even begrudge, you cannot ovee. Moreover, you wish to perform an act that could haunt them for a lifetime, is this how you¡¯re a mother?!¡±


    ¡°You¡¯ve already failed them once, and now you want to affect them in such a way for the rest of their lives.¡±


    ¡°You want to use your dead body to extinguish their joy, just how much do you despise them to punish them in such a way?!¡±


    You want to use your dead body to extinguish their joy, just how much do you despise them to punish them in such a way!


    After these words, Zhuang L¨¹he¡¯s crying abruptly ceased.


    Her body trembled slightly, the hands covering her face lowered, and she looked up at Tong Sang, shaking her head and denying loudly, ¡°I didn¡¯t!¡±


    ¡°You did! You want tomit suicide, did you ever consider their feelings?!¡± Tong Sang¡¯s handsome face was gloomy, and a burning anger in his dark eyes, mitting suicide now, means you despise them. You want to use this shadow to harm them for a lifetime!¡±


    As for Qiao Xiaomai, it is not to say, the original host¡¯s heart had been reced by another person.


    But Qiao Dami wasn¡¯t, he didn¡¯t know the truth, he always believed in Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s words, his face wore a smile all day today, the bumpy journey in the hot weather did not affect his good mood at all.


    He was genuinely happy to wee Zhuang L¨¹he home.<div>


    If at this moment he saw Zhuang L¨¹he¡¯s body, how great would the shadow in his little heart be?


    Tong Sang¡¯s words were indeed out of anger, but they also made sense.


    And his usations were severe enough to make Zhuang L¨¹he immediately flustered, she instinctively grabbed Qiao Changshun¡¯s clothes, and her deathly pale face revealed a look of horror, ¡°I didn¡¯t, I didn¡¯t¡­¡±


    How could she possibly hate the two children, she felt guilty towards them, ah, mostly because she wanted to die for them!


    Tong Sang looked at her, he sighed deeply, then softened his tone, ¡°Mother, if you really consider Xiaomai and Dami, then you should follow dad home. Xiaomai and I are already married, only dad and Dami are left at home. Dad can¡¯t be without you, Dami is only seven years old, he really can¡¯t be without you.¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s no hurdle that can¡¯t be crossed, the hardships of the past were for the good days we have now. The hardship is over, from now on, it¡¯ll be all good days.¡±


    ¡°Exactly, Luhe, Dami and I can¡¯t live without you, Dami is only seven years old!¡± Qiao Changshun also said through his tears and sniffles.


    Zhuang L¨¹he remained silent, but the tears in her eyes didn¡¯t stop. The expression on her face wasplex, guilt, grief, confusion, fear and various other emotions intertwined, she stood there without moving.


    ¡± Mother, let¡¯s go.¡± Tong Sang walked over, gesturing for Qiao Changshun to let go of Zhuang L¨¹he.


    Qiao Changshun did as he was told, he held Zhuang L¨¹he¡¯s arm and began to walk towards the door, ¡°the sky is getting dark, let¡¯s go.¡±


    Zhuang L¨¹he was like a puppet without consciousness, she numbly followed him towards the door.


    The door was already surrounded by more than ten vigers of Linzhang Vige, themotion just now was too big, they had surrounded the ox-cart, and not only these, there were even more vigers approaching from afar.


    Tong Sang red at them one by one then spoke firmly, ¡°Make way!¡±n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om


    The vigers faced his fierce gaze and involuntarily stepped back. But there were also some who gathered the courage to say, ¡°She¡¯s Jinzi¡¯s wife brought with his money, what right do you have to take her away?!¡±

 Chapter 593: 593: Is What She Wants a Lot?

    Chapter 593: Is What She Wants a Lot?


    ¡°Does anything else need to be addressed?¡± Tong Tiehu asked again.@@novelbin@@


    ¡°Shouldn¡¯t the couple hire someone to help with the work in the fields? Once the family splits, Tiehu¡¯s father and I will need to run a business to make money,¡± Mrs. Zhang added.


    Tong Sang had once stated that he would handle Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s portion of work, with absolutely no intention to hire help, which infuriated her.


    The original intention of her feigned sickness was to avoid field work, and this issue needs to be resolved.


    ¡°In the future, any delicious food Xiaomai prepares must be sent over to our new house.¡± Recalling the stewed meat fromst night and the Buddha Jumps Over the Wall from this morning, Mrs. Zhang¡¯s mouth watered considerably.


    This issue also needs to be resolved.


    Having grown tired of eating meat during their prosperous days, she was deprived of it for a while, and now, she swore to cherish this delicacy with all sincerity.


    Tong Tiehu nodded, ¡°Is that all?¡±


    ¡°Um¡­¡± Mrs. Zhang¡¯s mind started racing. It was a rare opportunity to make demands, and she shouldn¡¯t miss anything.


    After pondering for a while, she spoke, ¡°To start a business, we need some capital, right? A modest courtyard in town should cost a few hundred taels, and with additional misceneous expenses, I think the couple should give one thousand taels of silver for startup capital.¡±<div>


    ¡°Anything else?¡± Tong Tiehu asked, his expression unchanged as soon as Mrs. Zhang finished speaking.


    ¡°Not for now, but we¡¯ll add more as we think of themter.¡±


    Tong Tiehu nodded, ¡°Do you realize that although Sang¡¯s kung fu skills are good, hunting also carries a certain risk? Have you noticed that he is spending increasingly more time on huntingtely?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not that much longer, I raised him from infancy to adulthood, all the while cleaning up after him, is it too much to ask for twenty taels of filial piety money every month?¡± Mrs. Zhang argued.


    The greater your ability, the greater the responsibility you should bear.


    She could not rely on her elder sons at all, and could only count on Tong Sang.


    Tong Sang has been providing filial piety money that should be shared among the three brothers, is twenty taels from three of them too much?


    Compared to Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s wealth, this amount is negligible.


    ¡°One tael of profit? What kind of business do you think can earn one tael a day?¡± Tong Tiehu asked again.


    ¡°With her culinary skills, a few recipes would be enough to sustain a small restaurant,¡± Mrs. Zhang responded.


    ¡°So, you think a thousand taels is a small sum?¡± Tong Tiehu asked again.


    ¡°No, it¡¯s quite a sum, but the couple knows how to earn money. Even if the thousand taels are used up, Xiaomai can easily earn it back just by working. Besides, this thousand taels is the capital. How can you earn one tael per day doing business in the vige? Sounds like a joke. We must run our business in the town,¡± Mrs. Zhang retorted confidently.


    One thousand taels as capital.


    Twenty taels of filial piety money each month; that¡¯s two hundred and forty taels a year.


    So, Qiao Xiaomai and Tong Sang need only contribute one thousand two hundred and forty taels in total.


    And this is only for this year. As the capital of one thousand taels dwindles by next year, the couple will only need to contribute two hundred and forty taels.


    Two hundred and forty taels, it could barely be considered a fraction of Qiao Xiaomai and Tong Sang¡¯s wealth.


    As for her, apart from the two hundred and forty taels of annual filial piety money, she has a business that could generate one tael of profit every day.


    One tael a day, amounting to thirty taels a month, and three hundred sixty taels a year.<div>


    This means she could earn six hundred taels a year in the future.


    Six hundred taels, though it might appear to be quite a sum, but she has two sons to support, and Qiao Xiaomai and Tong Sang are under no obligation to provide for them, hence, this six hundred taels is not her sole ie.


    The earnings from her painstaking work after a year could barelypare to what Qiao Xiaomai could make easily with a single recipe.


    Is she asking for too much?<div>

 Chapter 594: Moving you out!

    Chapter 594: Moving you out!


    It¡¯s not too much at all!


    She happens to be Tong Sang¡¯s own mother!


    Without her, where would Tong Sange from?


    The kindness of raising him to such a size, and now just relying on this bit of silver to send her away, she really is at a loss!


    It¡¯s true that once a son gets a wife, he forgets his mother!


    The angrier she gets, the more she can¡¯t help but feel annoyed. As she looks at Tong Tiehu, she looks very disgruntled.


    Tong Tiehu ¡°¡­¡±


    In light of the few words he exchanged with Qiao Xiaomai yesterday,st night he deeply reflected on his simplicities and brutalities over the years. He wants to change, not to oppress with simple and brutal strengths, he wants to reason.


    That¡¯s why, no matter what Zhang Family said just now, he didn¡¯t show any anger on his face. He was trying to suppress his anger.


    Although Zhang Family¡¯s words made some sense, on careful consideration, they¡¯re all nonsense.


    Qiao Xiaomai still owes nearly ten thousand taels of silver to Yang Ye, and the house on the estate is only just beginning to take shape; materials for what not like a pond, brook, and a mountain full of fruit trees haven¡¯t been purchased at all.


    And an inn that can make a tael of silver a day just casually dishes out a few dishes?


    Do they really think that the recipes in Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s mind are endless and that she can have as many as she wants?


    Qiao Xiaomai also has her own ns for establishing a family.


    And what¡¯s most important, it hasn¡¯t been long since the retired emperor confiscated his family¡¯s property. His family has to go through this year in peace and simplicity at the least.


    If they bought a courtyard in the town to do business and lived more prosperously than before, wouldn¡¯t that be pping the retired emperor in his face?


    That is also why he is suppressing Tong Sang¡¯s hunting and only buying about ten acres ofnd, to avoid returning to the past too quickly.


    @@novelbin@@


    He emphasizes this reason frequently, why can¡¯t these fools remember it at all?!


    Taking a deep breath, Tong Tiehu tried to control his anger, and spoke in as calm a tone as he could, ¡°Have you forgotten what I said about not being able to quickly restore our previous lifestyle? Have you forgotten about the imperial edict of the retired emperor?¡±


    Imperial edict?


    At these words, the expression on Zhang Family¡¯s face stiffened.


    This thing¡­ she really had forgotten.


    Recently, she¡¯s been taking medicine all the time and has been stuck in the room. All she¡¯s been thinking about is how to scrape more benefits from Qiao Xiaomai. She really had cast this aside.


    ¡°Anyway, since you¡¯re living in the vige, everything is self-sufficient, it won¡¯t cost many silvers. From now on, both Sang and Xiaomai will pay you a tael of silver for your filial respect every month, which should be enough for you.¡±


    ¡°One piece of silver?!¡± Zhang Family was brought back to her senses by this number and cried out in shock.


    Tong Tiehu couldn¡¯t help but lose his temper at her reaction, scolding, ¡°In all these years, you have only saved up to a hundred pieces of silver privately! Don¡¯t be too greedy!¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t forget what you pressed on Xiaomai to marry into the Tong Family with, His Highness, Prince Wei, is still in Bailu Town. If this matteres out, don¡¯t even think about having a single copper coin!¡±


    Zhang Family was surprised by his raised voice. After a pause, the discrepancy between reality and her imaginings prompted her to argue, ¡°But one piece of silver is too little, dad. You were the one who asked me to make the conditions!¡±


    ¡°What kind of rubble are you producing! Thing that doesn¡¯t know the good from the bad, I think this monthly piece of silver showing your filial respects, you shouldn¡¯t take either. Since you¡¯re so keen on being sick, then continue being sick. When Daliang and Enge back at midday, I will announce that your illness has worsened. To prevent you from passing it on to others, I¡¯ll move you to the new house.¡±


    ¡°From now on, you¡¯ll live in the new house first, and we¡¯ll talk about other things when you get better!¡±

 Chapter 627: 627: Afraid to Face Qiao Xiaomai

    Chapter 627: Chapter 627: Afraid to Face Qiao Xiaomai


    After a separation of six months, mother and son were reunited, both teary-eyed.


    Upon seeing Zhuang Luhe¡¯s current state, Qiao Xiaomai felt a knot in her throat and also began shedding tears.


    The woman in front of her was a far cry from the beauty in her memories. What hardships Zhuang Luhe had to endure over these past six months¡­


    ¡°Stop crying, let¡¯s eat,¡± Tong Sang said, lighting up the firewood he had gathered earlier.


    Qiao Xiaomai sniffled, pulling out the scallion pancakes she had cooked, along with the steamed buns she bought at noon, then she poured a bowl of water for Zhuang Luhe.


    Scallion pancakes, steamed buns.


    Zhuang Luhe couldn¡¯t recall how long it had been since shest ate white flour. Now she was looking at these rare delicacies, her yet-to-stop tears were now flowing even more violently.


    ¡°Stop crying mother, it¡¯s bad for your eyes, and your rouge is all smeared from the tears,¡± Qiao Xiaomai said, pulling out a handkerchief tofort her.


    Zhuang Luhe dared not look at her, responding with a few sobs and nodded, stuffing a steamed bun into her mouth.


    Qiao Xiaomai then reached out to wipe the tears from her eyes.<div>


    Zhuang Luhe hung her head even lower.


    Qiao Dami was okay, but Qiao Xiaomai, being a woman herself, understood the difficulties of being a woman. When she left, she hadn¡¯t considered the situation Xiaomai would face¡­


    Seeing this, Qiao Xiaomai felt somewhat helpless.


    She originally feared Zhuang Luhe would discover her recement of the corncob, seeing Zhuang Luhe now, it seemed that she should be the oneforting her.


    With Qiao Dami present, she couldn¡¯t ask Tong Sang for the full story, so she could only call both Tong Sang and Qiao Changshun to eat.


    They needed to travel at night and arrive in Huai¡¯an County before daybreak.


    Once everyone had finished their hasty dinner, Tong Sang extinguished the firewood, and then Qiao Xiaomai brought out thentern she had bought in Huai¡¯an County for lighting.


    Night traveling required antern.


    Thenterns from ancient times were pasted with paper, and even with twonterns, the lighting was still insufficient. Coupled with poor road conditions, the ox cart moved extremely slowly.


    Qiao Dami, settled in Zhuang Luhe¡¯s arms, fell asleep quickly, while the four adults remained wide awake.


    Qiao Xiaomai drove the ox cart and talked to Zhuang Luhe about the changes at home over the past half year, starting from the recipe for cold jelly noodles to the present.


    She spoke for an hour, her throat bing parched. After she finished, she had to stop the ox cart to drink some water from the pottery jar.


    Zhuang Luhe was dumbfounded the entire time.


    Whether it was Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s household¡¯s rapid rise in status or the Tong family¡¯s identity, to her, they all seemed like wild fantasies.


    Her family¡¯s savings had always hovered around dozens of wen, so the concept of owning five hundred acres of farnd and thousands of taels of silver was simply beyond her grasp.


    Not to mention the appearances of real nobles, the retired Emperor, the Prince of Wei, the Prince of Duan, figures that existed only in dramas, had actually shown up in her home.


    And then there was Tong Sang¡¯s family.


    She was previously puzzled as to how Tong Sang could marry Qiao Xiaomai given their family¡¯s circumstances, but now it seemed that the Tong family was of significant status but had had their property seized.


    Moreover, the reason Qiao Xiaomai agreed to the marriage was to repay a life-saving favour¡­<div>


    All these events were too mind-boggling.


    Completely beyond her imagination.


    ¡°Mother, anyway, our family is living a very good life now. You do not need to worry at all. Father¡¯s happiest time each day is to sit in the courtyard in the evening to pay the workers. He can enjoy being a richndlord whenever he wants.¡±


    ¡°Once you¡¯re back, you can do those duties. You can also enjoy the pleasure of being a richndy.¡±<div>


    Upon hearing this, Zhuang Luhe quickly shook her head, ¡°I can¡¯t, I can¡¯t.¡±


    Even though Qiao Xiaomai insisted that she had gone out to work, she knew in the hearts of others it was clear.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    She did not want to face the peculiar looks from those people.

 Chapter 628: 628: Here, Pocket Money

    Chapter 628: Chapter 628: Here, Pocket Money


    ¡°Dad sometimes gets confused and can¡¯t remember the ounts. You should take over this task.¡± Zhuang L¨¹he can¡¯t read, but she can do math, and her calctions are always clear.


    Qiao Xiaomai dislikes doing the ounts, and since she¡¯s married, she hands this task over to Zhuang L¨¹he.


    ¡°No, no.¡± Zhuang L¨¹he still refused.


    Qiao Xiaomai has managed everything in this house seamlessly, and Zhuang L¨¹he does not interfere, she does not interfere at all.


    Seeing Zhuang L¨¹he violently shaking her head, almost waking Qiao Dami in her arms, Qiao Xiaomai dropped the subject.


    Zhuang L¨¹he still couldn¡¯t face the gaze of their fellow vigers.


    What¡¯s the big deal?


    Look at that shrew from the Sun Family who¡¯s been a bandit for over ten years, but still arrogantly stands with her hands on her hips when she sees the vigers.


    The key to getting by in this world is having a thick skin.


    Can other people¡¯s views lose you a slice of bread or a bit of money?<div>


    Since they can¡¯t, why care?


    Your life is smooth, those who gossip are just jealous!


    ¡°It¡¯ste, Dad, Mom, you guys should sleep too.¡± Tong Sang spoke up, ¡°You¡¯ll wake up once we arrive in County Town.¡±


    ¡°You two have also been on the road for a day, let me drive the cart and you can sleep first.¡± Qiao Changshun said.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om


    ¡°No need, I¡¯m not tired, Dad, you go sleep.¡± Qiao Xiaomai chimed in.


    She and Tong Sang are both good at staying upte.


    ¡°Alright then.¡± Seeing this, Qiao Changshun didn¡¯t push.


    He hadn¡¯t rested well these two days, he cried too hard when he was hugging Zhuang L¨¹he earlier, now a wave of exhaustion is flooding over him.


    Zhuang Luhe was also tired, but she couldn¡¯t sleep while holding Qiao Dami.


    Once she took the step of eloping, there was no turning back.


    Now Qiao Xiaomai and Qiao Dami both want her to live, so she will live. When they no longer need her, then she can die.


    Eloping ¡­ it¡¯s a dead end.


    She shouldn¡¯t have stepped onto this path in the first ce.


    Qiao Xiaomai and Tong Sang drove the oxcart together, antern hanging by each of their sides, traveling along the path in this silent night.


    The two of them remained silent. After slowly traveling for nearly three hours, they finally arrived near Huai¡¯an County.


    With an hour left before the city gate opens, they sat on the cart and took a brief nap. The city gate opened before dawn broke, waking up Zhuang L¨¹he and Qiao Changshun.


    They switched ces with Tong Sang and Qiao Xiaomai, driving the cart while thetter two slept.


    When they arrived at Bailu Town just before noon, they all entered Jiweiju to eat.


    After lunch, Qiao Xiaomai and Zhuang L¨¹he went shopping for clothes.<div>


    Although they had fabric at home, it still needed to be made, so buying ready-made clothes was more convenient.


    In addition to clothes, Qiao Xiaomai also bought many tonics. Zhuang L¨¹he was so skinny she looked like a refugee, she needed to build up her strength.


    Zhuang L¨¹he followed behind Qiao Xiaomai, heart beating fast as she watched thetter spend money recklessly.


    That was too extravagant!<div>


    She¡¯d never even dreamed of such a scene!


    Qiao Xiaomai caught sight of her expression and stuffed a note into her pocket, ¡°Here¡¯s some spending money, Mom, buy whatever you want.¡±


    She¡¯d always been the one in charge of family finances, even after getting married. She kept all thend deeds and banknotes, only leaving a few dozen copper coins for Qiao Changshun to pay the workers.


    Even now, with money in hand, it was impossible for the thrifty Qiao Changshun to go shopping freely in the town.


    Zhuang L¨¹he had never seen a hundred-tael banknote in her life. When Qiao Xiaomai stuffed one in her pocket, she was so startled that she almost dropped the Qiao Dami in her arms.


    But Qiao Dami calmly picked up the banknote, folded it, and stuffed it back into Zhuang L¨¹he¡¯s pocket.


    ¡°Mom, take it! Big sister also gives dad and me spending money!¡±


    [In ancient times, eloping was a dead end]

 Chapter 629: 629: She Can Handle It

    Chapter 629: Chapter 629: She Can Handle It


    When Qiao Dami said this, Zhuang L¨¹he was stunned.


    Pocket, pocket money?


    Now, Qiao Xiaomai is the one providing pocket money ¡­


    ¡°My pocket money is also given by Xiaomai.¡± Tong Sang said, ¡°Mother, our family¡¯s conditions have really improved, you can rest assured to take it.¡±


    Zhuang L¨¹he upon hearing this, became lost in thought.


    What¡¯s going on, even Tong Sang falls under Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s management now?


    She quickly recalled the Tong Family¡¯s confiscation and gave Tong Sang aplex look.


    This youngster, who she dared not think of previously, unexpectedly now ¡­


    But based on his looks, he genuinely feels good about Qiao Xiaomai.


    She pressed her lips together and stopped resisting.<div>


    Then Qiao Xiaomai continued shopping, and two carts were quickly piled up with goods. They then all headed towards Anping Vige.


    The nearer the home, the more timid one bes. So Zhuang L¨¹he couldn¡¯t help but hold Qiao Dami tighter, ¡°Should ¡­ Should I stay at the manor first?¡±


    She found herself without courage to face the vigers.


    ¡°It¡¯s not convenient there. Although the house is built, there¡¯s nothing else there. Besides, it¡¯s noisy often during the day, it cannot fit anyone for living.¡± Qiao Xiaomai exined.


    Zhuang L¨¹he tightly hugged Qiao Dami without saying a word.


    Her breathing turned shallow, her body was stiff.


    ¡°Don¡¯t be afraid. It¡¯s past noon now, there¡¯s hardly anyone in the vige.¡± Qiao Changshunforted her.


    It was a hot day, and nobody was out in the scorching sun. Everyone was either at home resting or working in the fields, there was practically nobody on the streets.


    Zhuang L¨¹heughed awkwardly and remained silent.


    Qiao Dami, her small arm around her neck, reassured her loudly, ¡°Mother, don¡¯t be afraid, the Sun Family must be hiding somewhere now. They don¡¯t dare to show up.¡±N?v(el)B\\jnn


    He thought Zhuang L¨¹he was afraid of the Sun Family.


    Zhuang L¨¹he responded by petting his little head and softly humming in agreement.


    The oxcart arrived at Anping Vige quickly, just as Qiao Changshun said. The streets werepletely empty. From the vige entrance to their home, they did not meet a single person.


    When they arrived at their house, Qiao Xiaomai told the oxcart to stop, she jumped off to open the courtyard gate.


    Qiao Dami also hopped down from the cart excitedly, he ran inside the house calls out, ¡°Mother,e and see sister¡¯s dowry!¡±


    The items that Yang Ye presented, if they could be moved inside, were ced in the house; otherwise they were piled up in the courtyard, the whole courtyard was filled.


    Zhuang L¨¹he looked up at the familiar small courtyard, took a deep breath, and mustered the courage to get off the oxcart.


    The small courtyard was still the same, the difference was that everything sold previously had been reced. There were chicks in the chicken coop, lush vegetables in the vegetable garden, and the shed and the whole courtyard were filled to the brim.


    These things were all part of the dowry gifted to her daughter Qiao Xiaomai by the royal characters from the ys¡­<div>


    Zhuang L¨¹he¡¯s lips trembled, her emotions were a mix of everything.


    Will she, as a mother, affect Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s rtionship with those important figures?


    Once she steps into this courtyard, would she bring bad luck to the people inside¡­


    ¡°Mother,e in.¡± Qiao Xiaomai who had opened the gate and started unloading the carts, seeing Zhuang L¨¹he frozen at the gate, urged her.<div>


    ¡°I, I won¡¯t bring bad luck to you, will I?¡± Zhuang L¨¹he asked with a pale face.


    Upon hearing this, Qiao Xiaomai burst intoughter, ¡°Mother, don¡¯t worry,e in. No matter what kind of evil spirits there are, I can suppress them.¡±


    As for fate, she had never bowed down to it.


    For Zhuang L¨¹he, this less intelligent woman with poor judgement, she could take care of her.

 Chapter 598: 598: Youre Just Being Polite, Right?

    Chapter 598: You¡¯re Just Being Polite, Right?


    The conversation quickly ended, and Qiao Xiaomai returned to her room. Tong Sang had prepared the hot bath water, and after the two bathed, theyy in bed.@@novelbin@@


    Qiao Xiaomai told Tong Sang about the conversation she had with Tong Tiehu.


    Shey on her side, propping up her head in one hand, and patting Tong Sang¡¯s back with the other, said, ¡°It¡¯s so worth it topletely buy you out with such a small sum of silver. It¡¯s a pity that Grandpa refused.¡±


    Offer arge sum of money to Zhang Family right now and shut everyone up.


    If the Zhang Family tried to make a fuss in the future, she could always refute them from a moral high ground.


    Pity that, Tong Tiehu had sent Zhang Family away.


    With a meager tael of silver for monthly filial piety money, and a modest business making a few cents a day, Zhang Family couldn¡¯t withstand hardship and would have to trouble her and Tong Sang again.


    At that time, she and Tong Sang would certainly have to continue to appease her.


    ¨r(¨s¨Œ¨t)¨q


    In her tone was a hint of regret. Tong Sangy facing her mirror-like, his eyes were ink-ck and he stared straight at her, ¡°Do you really want to take this silver?¡±<div>


    ¡°Yes,¡± Qiao Xiaomai nodded slightly, pointing at his chest with her index finger, ¡°In honor of the motherly love she extended to you these past seventeen years.¡±


    ¡°But I couldn¡¯t earn that much silver for you.¡± Tong Sang, hearing this, gripped her hand fumbling on his chest, his tone was a bit low, resonating with loss.


    This was a difficult question his mother posed to Qiao Xiaomai, he felt ashamed.


    ¡°Didn¡¯t you give me five thousand taels of private savings?¡±


    ¡°But I willingly wanted to give that to you, you can¡¯t mix matters.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Qiao Xiaomai couldn¡¯t help but roll her eyes. She pulled her hand out of Tong Sang¡¯s grasp and pped it on his arm, ¡°Do you always have to belittle me, to the point of exhaustion? Do you not consider me as your own family?¡±


    Her words were not made impishly, she meant them sincerely.


    ¡°Of course, you¡¯re my family!¡± Tong Sang quickly replied, ¡°I just feel that¡­ I haven¡¯t done much for you¡­¡±


    He couldn¡¯t help Qiao Xiaomai with anything, yet his family always troubled her instead.


    ¡°Who says you haven¡¯t done much? Was it not Grandpa and you who helped me against the Sun Family, and who helped end that toxic family rtionship? Although these words were Tong Xingda¡¯s repayment for his debt of gratitude, she always remembered them.¡±


    ¡°And wasn¡¯t it you who helped build the shelter for my family? And who is it that heats the bath water for me every day, and who is it that helps me to the bathroom?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t say these things are trivial, it¡¯s the details that show the sincerity. If you think you¡¯re stupid, then you really are. Were you considering my words, ¡®What¡¯s mine is yours¡¯, as mere pleasantries?¡±


    ¡°If you don¡¯t think this is enough, then from now on, be good to me and love me properly. You¡¯re just rambling anyway, there¡¯s not even a hint of a man¡¯s decisiveness!¡±


    Thinking about this, Qiao Xiaomai again pped him a few times out of frustration.


    Really, she swore by heaven and earth, she didn¡¯t want Tong Sang to use male dignity as an excuse to keep things separate between them.


    There¡¯s really no need for it, absolutely not.


    She was even willing to give her life, all silver was an exterior possession, okay?


    Qiao Xiaomai suddenly erupted, leaving Tong Sang stunned.


    He stared at Qiao Xiaomai with his dark sparkling eyes, somewhat bewildered, ¡°Are you¡­ angry?¡±<div>


    ¡°You think I shouldn¡¯t be angry?¡± Qiao Xiaomai rolled her eyes once again, and without holding back, pped him again.


    She wasn¡¯t ying around with these blows, which is why she was hitting him harder.


    Feeling the sudden increase in force, Tong Sang involuntarily frowned.


    Seeing this, Qiao Xiaomai snorted, hit him again, turned over, with her back against the wall, she closed her eyes. Sleep!<div>

 Chapter 599: 599: Ill Be Fine in a Few Days

    Chapter 599: I¡¯ll Be Fine in a Few Days


    Tong Sang fell quiet for a moment, pouting his lips, before finally speaking, ¡°I¡¯m just afraid you think I¡¯m useless.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai had seen a better world, better people, and she herself was excellent. By marrying him, Qiao Xiaomai was indeed marrying below her status.


    Now his family was causing trouble for Qiao Xiaomai, he was failing her, mistreating her.


    Under such circumstances, he couldn¡¯t muster the audacity to say ¡®what¡¯s yours is mine¡¯.


    Qiao Xiaomai was like a gold mine.


    But he had nothing.


    This was inequity¡­


    Even though he sometimes joked with Qiao Xiaomai about being a gigolo, or being kept by a rich woman, he didn¡¯t genuinely wish to live off a woman¡¯s money.


    Heaving a quiet sigh, he shifted his body towards Qiao Xiaomai, opened his arms and pulled her into his embrace.


    ¡°You¡¯re right, I haven¡¯t done enough, but I will treat you better and love you more in the future.¡±<div>


    Qiao Xiaomai struggled symbolically, but seeing his firm hold, she snorted, ¡°I¡¯ll remember that, and if you don¡¯t follow through, I won¡¯t hold back from domestic violence.¡±


    As she spoke, she pinched him hard.


    The pinch was indeed hard. Tong Sang not only frowned, but he also winced slightly, his handsome face creased in pain.


    ¡°Alright, alright.¡± He hurriedly nodded.


    Not only did Qiao Xiaomai believe in actions more, but he knew it too.


    ¡°I¡¯ll show you my concrete actions, or else I¡¯ll let you hit me.¡±


    Upon hearing these words, Qiao Xiaomai rolled her eyes, ¡°Think from my perspective, if I were to insist on differentiating what¡¯s yours and mine so clearly, would you be happy? Would you feel good?¡±


    Tong Sang fell silent for a moment, thinking of Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s generous nature, unable to help himself, hugged her tightly, ¡°I was wrong.¡±


    Compared to losing thousands of taels, his constant demarcation would hurt Qiao Xiaomai even more.


    ¡°From now on, um¡­ what¡¯s yours is mine.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t feel burdened at all, use everything freely!¡± As she spoke, she wiggled her body, ¡°Let me go, I want to kiss you.¡±


    Fighting was a waste of time, she didn¡¯t want to quarrel.


    Her statement was so straightforward that Tong Sang couldn¡¯t helpughing. He slowly released his hold and flipped over, his body pressing down hers.


    What met him was Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s soft, rosy lips, he opened his mouth, from passive to proactive, conquering her.


    The room was filled with warmth.


    The next day, they woke up on time while it was still dark outside, and although it was dim, they could still see outlines. Without caring about brushing their teeth, they sweetly exchanged a kiss before getting up.


    Breakfast was again Egg Pancake and Xiaomi porridge, extremely light. After eating, Qiao Xiaomai and Tong Sang left the house to water the crops at manor with Spiritual Spring water.


    The Spiritual Spring water that couldn¡¯t even heal dysmenorrhea could only be used for this purpose.


    Everyone in the Tong family was busy with their chores, the shopkeepers managing the shop, the housekeeper doing the housework, those picking firewood were picking firewood.<div>


    When Tong Tiehu found a spare moment, he came to the door of Zhang¡¯s room and directly said, ¡°Yesterday, I gently probed Xiaomai for her thoughts. She said that after the division of the family, you can sell boiled fish and cold noodles, these two things don¡¯t require charcoal fire, so it¡¯s convenient.¡±


    ¡°She will also give you a monthly allowance of one tael.¡±@@novelbin@@


    Upon hearing these words, Zhang¡¯s heart was filled with mixed emotions.


    Only getting this much, she just couldn¡¯t ept it.<div>


    But since Tong Tiehu had already said so, even if she couldn¡¯t ept it, she had to bear with it for now.


    Let¡¯s see how well these two snacks sell!


    ¡°Then I¡¯ll be ready in a few days.¡± Zhang replied.


    ¡°You better put on a good performance and not let Xiaomai see through you.¡± With a cold snort, Tong Tiehu left these words before turning around and walking away.

 Chapter 600: 600: Zhang Familys Recovery from Illness

    Chapter 600: Zhang Family¡¯s Recovery from Illness


    Zhang Family¡¯s illness slowly started to get better.


    First, she said that she felt more energetic and her chest pain was much better, and then she was able to go out for a walk.


    She had been bedridden for some time; her poor eating and sleeping habits, coupled with half a month of medicine, had made her look thin. By all appearances, she seemed as if she had just recovered from a severe illness.


    At that time, Qiao Xiaomai indicated to Tong Sang to make a small cart, simr to the ones used by chilled noodle vendors in the future.


    Tong Sang was skilled in many areas, be it calligraphy, chess, or carpentry, he knew them all.


    He went up the hill to cut down trees and came back. After a whole afternoon of nging and banging, a small stall cart that met the requirements was produced.


    It was tied to the ox cart with ropes, and it was a perfect fit.


    Qiao Xiaomai was preparing to pickle pickled vegetables. Because she wanted to do business, she switched from using jars to using big vats this time.


    After all these preparations are done, two dayster, Zhang Family¡¯s illness was cured.


    Since she was recovered from the illness, we could start discussing the division of the house matter.<div>


    However, Zhang Family requested to have a trial run of selling for a few days first, to see how it goes.


    Qiao Xiaomai had a few days to spare, so she agreed with her.


    So, Qiao Xiaomai began teaching her how to make chilled noodles.@@novelbin@@


    Making chilled noodles were simple. The ingredients were flour,plemented with cucumber and bean sprouts. Although it was a pity not to have chili, having a bowl of hearty chilled noodles during the hot summer was still quite enjoyable.


    Regarding the Sour and Spicy Fish.


    The fish needs to be purchased from the marketce, and due to Bailu Town not being near the sea or ake, the price of fish was even higher than chicken.


    As a result, Zhang Family couldn¡¯t help butin, ¡°This fish costs eight or nine cents per jin, you might as well teach me how to prepare the field snails and the Loach Soup.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s Brewed Snails were exceptionally delicious. The field snails she and Tong Sang had collected a few days earlier, she used some of them to make Brewed Snails and some to make Snail Noodle soup.


    The people from the Tong Family who have tasted it, their expressions were the same as when they chewed on bones.


    Although the meat was not much, this is the charm of good craftsmanship!


    And then there¡¯s that Loach Soup. All the loaches were beheaded, tail cut, and entrails removed. All the earthy smell was gone, leaving only the umami vor. Every one from the Tong Family who drank it had their stomachs filled.


    Even Tong Eng, who was always concerned about Zhu Hongyun, was the same. At mealtime, he was able to quickly put Zhu Hongyun out of his mind.


    These two dishes left a very deep impression in the memory of the Tong Family people, so at this moment, Zhang Family could not help but mention it.


    These dishes were so delicious, and the ingredients were free. With this being the case, why bother to go to the trouble of buying fish.


    ¡°There are not many field snails or loaches left in our vige¡¯s small river,¡± said Qiao Xiaomai.


    She used to catch them quite often, and the vigers followed suit. When people catch them inrge numbers, naturally fewer will be left.


    ¡°You can catch some from the stream near the slope of your house,¡± said Zhang Family.


    ¡°That¡¯s not as reliable as Sour and Spicy Fish,¡± Qiao Xiaomai responded.


    ¡°Earn whatever can be earned. After all, it¡¯s free. It¡¯s no different from throwing it into the river,¡± Zhang Family came up with a convincing argument.<div>


    Qiao Xiaomai thought for a moment and nodded, ¡°Okay.¡±


    Now that she had the support of her spiritual spring water, the taste of the dishes could not go wrong.


    But if they divide the house and Zhang Family moves to the new house, she could not guarantee the taste anymore.


    If the taste can¡¯t be guaranteed, then making money will not be stable. It¡¯s better to provide more recipes.<div>


    Tong Tiehu sat under the tree, listening to the conversation between Zhang Family and Qiao Xiaomai. He opened his mouth and said, ¡°Sang¡¯s mother, considering what happened with Second Brother¡¯s wife before, I¡¯ll say this upfront, you can only use these things for yourself, you can¡¯t think about selling them.¡±


    ¡°Otherwise, go back to your mother¡¯s house and don¡¯te back.¡±

 Chapter 633: 633: She Has a Strange Look in Her Eyes

    Chapter 633: Chapter 633: She Has a Strange Look in Her Eyes


    Every person is preciousbor. After experiencing the tyranny of the former dynasty and three years of chaos, Daqi was established from the ruins. Currently, Daqi only has a total poption of fifty million.


    With so few people, the knife of execution should not be wielded recklessly.


    Because of this, the general principle of ¡°Daqi Law¡± is to spare the death penalty when possible, and use hardbor instead of capital punishment.


    The fact that such a severe punishment has been set for human trafficking shows the Emperor¡¯s emphasis on ordinary people.


    However, as for the buyer, ¡°Daqi Law¡± really does not stipte anything about this point.


    Thus, it seems that there are indeed many deficiencies in the ¡°Daqi Law¡±.


    Upon hearing this, Qiao Xiaomai smiled, ¡°I¡¯m just providing suggestions, whether they are taken into consideration or not, of course, depends on you.¡±


    ¡°Miss Qiao, I understand your anger, but the matter of capital punishment requires careful deliberation,¡± said the Chancellor of the Academy.


    Xiaomai responded, the smile on her face bing even more sweet, ¡°You¡¯re right.¡±


    ¡°Are you not convinced?¡± Seeing her like this, Yang Ye asked directly.<div>


    Qiao Xiaomai immediately shook her head, ¡°Not at all.¡±


    Joking aside, she¡¯s just amoner. Regarding such serious national affairs, she surely shouldn¡¯t overstep her boundaries.


    ¡°You¡¯re unconvinced,¡± Yang Ye used an assertive tone, he put the bowl in his hand down, ced one hand on the stone table, and intently looked at Xiaomai, ¡°Come, tell your true thoughts.¡±


    Seeing Xiaomai still smiling, he quickly added, ¡°Don¡¯t lie to me, otherwise I won¡¯t help you deal with the affairs of Beiyang County.¡±


    Xiaomai, ¡°¡­The separation of families and lifetime sorrow of others may not affect you, if it has never happened to you directly.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Yang Ye raised his eyebrow, ¡°Look, you are unconvinced.¡±


    Xiaomai ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°We will discuss this matter further, Miss Qiao, and I will take your suggestions seriously,¡± the Chancellor of the Academy chimed in.


    Upon hearing this, Xiaomai quickly thanked him.


    ¡°Alright, that¡¯s enough, no need to thank me,¡± Yang Ye waved his hand, ¡°Do you have any other suggestions?¡±


    ¡°No more, but I think you could review the archives of the cases judged by the government over the years to find inspiration,¡± Xiaomai suggested.


    Upon hearing this, both Yang Ye and the Chancellor had their eyes light up.


    ¡°That¡¯s a good idea,¡± Yang Ye couldn¡¯t help but p the table.


    Truth be told, what he¡¯s currently doing is referring to thews of the previous dynasty, and discussing with the Chancellor. Of course, he also asionally asks students from the academy for their suggestions.


    This way of doing things is like fishing in the ocean, there is no targeted approach, it ispletely akin to a blind maning across a dead rat.


    The Emperor of Yong¡¯an instructed him to perfect the ¡°Daqi Laws¡±, but how to perfect it? Without a guiding idea, how would he know where the loopholes are?


    When do you needws?


    You need them when judging cases.


    Xiaomai¡¯s suggestion was a good one, to review the archives of past years, and see which cases have a legal basis and which ones don¡¯t. This way, the deficiencies can be rectified.<div>


    In this way, the work can be more targeted and might be finished ahead of time.


    Originally, the Emperor of Yong¡¯an had given him two years toplete it.


    Feeling good about this, Yang Ye finished off the liquor in his bowl and then said, ¡°Your suggestion is good ¡ª to celebrate, why not cook a feast for us at noon!¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai, upon hearing this, couldn¡¯t help but widen her eyes. She didn¡¯t know the details behind this, and at the moment, she felt Yang Ye¡¯sment was illogical.<div>


    Yang Ye smiled, his handsome face seemed even more captivating, ¡°What, now that we are married, you¡¯re unwilling to cook for others?¡±n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    Qiao Xiaomai ¡°¡­¡±


    His tone sounded weird.


    And the look in his eyes was also weird.

 Chapter 634: 634: Why Yang Ye Doesnt Get Married

    Chapter 634: Chapter 634: Why Yang Ye Doesn¡¯t Get Married


    ¡°Prince, thank you for joking. What would you like to eat?¡± Qiao Xiaomai asked with a sweet smile on her face.


    ¡°I want plenty of fish and meat,¡± Yang Ye made his request.


    Qiao Xiaomai nodded. After all, with the help of Spiritual Spring water, even if she aterge amounts of fish and meat, she wouldn¡¯t feel sick.


    ¡°I want some new dishes,¡± Yang Ye added.


    At these words, Qiao Xiaomai tilted her head slightly. New dishes?


    What could she make¡­


    ¡°Go on, go on, although it¡¯s still early, you should prepare as soon as possible,¡± Seeing her like this, Yang Ye felt slightly moved in his heart. He then showed a restless look and waved his hand to hint at Qiao Xiaomai to get going.


    Seeing this, Qiao Xiaomai was confused by Yang Ye¡¯s capricious behavior.


    She hurriedly took her leave.


    Though her rtionship with Yang Ye could be considered good now, after all, Yang Ye was a prince. His mood swings were not something she could deal with. Better to avoid them.<div>


    Qiao Xiaomai followed Yang Ye¡¯s maid back to Yang Ye¡¯s courtyard. Seeing her figure departing, the old steward lifted his hand to stroke his beard, then said, ¡°Your Highness, you¡¯re already twenty-two, it¡¯s time to get married.¡±


    At these words, Yang Ye¡¯s handsome face darkened immediately, ¡°I haven¡¯t met a suitable one yet.¡±


    The elderly steward just chuckled and changed the subject.


    Yang Ye¡¯s marriage matter was ratherplicated.


    Firstly, because of Bai Zhi. Bai Zhi, for the sake of Yang Ye, would rather hate life and dread death. If Yang Ye were to marry, Bai Zhi would certainlymit suicide.


    The former king of Daqi, also Bai Zhi¡¯s grandfather, being the only king of a different surname in the country, had fought alongside the previous emperor to establish the kingdom. If his little granddaughter were tomit suicide because of Yang Ye, it wouldn¡¯t be a good situation.


    Fortunately, Yang Ye hadn¡¯t met anyone he liked so far, so he remained single.


    The second reason was due to Crown Prince Yang Hao.


    Yang Hao was already thirty-two this year, having held the title of crown prince for over ten years. His son, Yang Zheng, was now thirteen and was a clever and quick-witted young boy.


    Under these circumstances, although Crown Prince Yang Hao¡¯s position was still stable, his situation was somewhat awkward.


    Emperor Yong¡¯an is in excellent health, being Emperor for another twenty years wouldn¡¯t be a problem. By then, Yang Hao would be fifty, and Yang Zheng would be in his thirties. Hence, it was not impossible for Emperor Yong¡¯an to directly pass the throne down to Yang Zheng.


    Therefore, the current situation was somewhatplicated.


    Due to these unspoken rtionships in the royal family, Yang Ye had been acting like a foodie, appearing uninterested in anything else, so as to avoid suspicion.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om


    If Yang Ye also held real power and married a nobledy from a prestigious aristocratic family, appearing ambitious and prosperous, it would undoubtedly make Yang Hao more ufortable.


    Thus, for these two reasons, Yang Ye¡¯s marriage had been dyed.


    As an outsider, the steward couldn¡¯t say much more.


    Even if there was an undeniable hint of ambiguity in the way Yang Ye looked at Qiao Xiaomai, all he could do was slightly indicate it. He couldn¡¯t say anything more.


    Once she was in the kitchen, Qiao Xiaomai started thinking about new dishes while preparing others. Speaking of what¡¯s new, it definitely wouldn¡¯t be considered new if she simply stewed or stir-fried two things together. It has to be novel.


    Actually, she really wanted to make the pork fat rice she madest time again. However, if she dared to use that to fob off Yang Ye, he would certainly be furious.<div>


    After thinking for a while, she saw some glutinous rice flour in the kitchen. She actually thought of an idea: rice noodle rolls.


    As far as she knew, there was no such dish here. Since it didn¡¯t exist, then she was innovating!


    Once she thought of this, she started excitedly making the rice noodle rolls. The morning tea from a certain ce in the future was famous all over the country with its wide variety of dishes. She had specifically researched it, and she could basically create all those varieties.


    <div>

 Chapter 635: 635: Fallen Sick

    Chapter 635: Chapter 635: Fallen Sick


    At the dining table, Yang Ye noticed the Rice Noodle Rolls, eyebrows arched in interest. They were indeed new to him.


    The semi-transparent wrap of the Rice Noodle Rolls enfolded shrimp, apanied by the sauce mixed by Qiao Xiaomai, tasted quite delectable.


    Consistently high standard as always.


    Yang Ye nced at Qiao Xiaomai while leisurely finishing the entire serving of Rice Noodle Rolls. Wiping the corner of his mouth with a handkerchief, he said, ¡°Teach my chef this recipe.¡±


    ¡°Sure,¡± Qiao Xiaomai agreed.


    ¡°How much for it?¡± Yang Ye asked.


    Qiao Xiaomai widened her eyes and quickly said, ¡°No need, this is an appreciation for your generosity.¡±


    ¡°You still owe me ten thousand taels of silver,¡± Yang Ye reminded.


    ¡°The Prince didn¡¯t specify a deadline, I¡¯ll be able to pay it off within three years,¡± she assured.


    ¡°So confident?¡±<div>


    ¡°My cooking skills are good,¡± Qiao Xiaomai replied with a modest smile.


    At her words, Yang Ye huffed, ¡°So, what else are you nning to cook?¡±


    ¡°I haven¡¯t had any inspiration just yet. My mom just came back and my mind is too muddled to concentrate,¡± Qiao Xiaomai replied honestly.


    Yang Ye clicked his tongue, ¡°Then you should take some tonics back with you for her. I have too many stored here and no desire to consume them.¡±


    ¡°Thank you, Prince, but I bought some yesterday,¡± she declined.


    ¡°What you bought is yours, and what I gift is mine, take it.¡± Yang Ye¡¯s tone suddenly sharpened.


    Qiao Xiaomai, ¡°¡­ Okay.¡±


    Has Yang Ye got his period?


    His mood is rising so rapidly.


    Under such circumstances, Qiao Xiaomai naturally did not want to stay any longer. After lunch, she taught Yang Ye¡¯s chef how to make Rice Noodle Rolls. Later, she excused herself on the pretext of worrying about Zhuang L¨¹he.


    Without a good reason, she didn¡¯t want to visit Yang Ye again anytime soon.


    She would wait until Yang Ye¡¯s irritable mood passed.


    Qiao Xiaomai returned home with a cartload of tonics. When she reached home, she saw that the gate was open. She jumped down from the cart, grabbed the harness, and led the cart into the Courtyard.


    Tong Sang was seated under a tree, brush in hand, teaching Qiao Dami how to write.


    Seeing Qiao Xiaomai return, he said, ¡°Back so soon, how did it go?¡±


    ¡°The Prince has sent people to handle the matter, where¡¯s mom?¡±


    ¡°In bed,¡± Tong Sang paused before he added, ¡°After you left, she had been asleep. Dad felt something was off, so he took her temperature, and brought Dr. Wu over. The doctor said her body is deficient and has internal injuries.¡±


    ¡°What?!¡± Qiao Xiaomai eximed.


    ¡°Her left leg and right arm had fractures before, and because they were not treated well there are nowplications,¡± Tong Sang said, his tone choked. He patted Qiao Dami¡¯s back, stood up, and said, ¡°Come inside and see for yourself. Dad is with her.¡±n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om<div>


    Qiao Xiaomai immediately rushed into the house.


    Inside the room, Zhuang L¨¹he was lying in bed, her cheeks flushed, lips cracked, herplexion was terrible.


    Qiao Changshun was seated by her side, there was a basin filled with water on the floor, he was washing a cloth in it.


    Seeing Qiao Xiaomaiing in, he said, ¡°You¡¯re back.¡±<div>


    ¡°How is mom?¡± Qiao Xiaomai nearly choked up, asking carefully.


    ¡°She took her medicine. Dr. Wu asked me to put a cold cloth on her forehead, her fever shoulde down by tonight,¡± Qiao Changshun informed.


    ¡°What about the injuries on her leg and arm?¡± Qiao Xiaomai asked again.


    ¡°They need rest. Fortunately, our home situation has improved, so she doesn¡¯t need to do any hard work,¡± Qiao Changshun sighed.


    Why does she have to suffer so much¡­.


    Qiao Xiaomai pressed her lips together and pulled Tong Sang out of the room. ¡°You, quietly go to Linzhang Vige and cripple one of Zhan Jin¡¯s legs or arms,¡± she told him.

 Chapter 604: 604 Do You Know What Youre Talking About?

    Chapter 604: Chapter 604 Do You Know What You¡¯re Talking About?


    Yang Ye¡¯s sudden appearance had given a scare to those who wanted toe and watch, but after he left, the interested crowd slowly gathered.


    Just by the smell and color, it was clear that these two items were vorful, but since they were free of charge, they couldn¡¯t help but to taste them.


    After confirming that they genuinely tasted good, the ones who should have gone back for a bowl immediately brought back their bowls, while the customers of Jixiju Restaurant came out with theirs directly from the restaurant.@@novelbin@@


    Five copper coins for a spoonful, quite expensive.


    But the price was in line with such a good taste.


    With the taste guaranteed, both basins of field snails sold out quickly and the loach soup also sold out.


    Until the three of them returned to the vige, Yang Ye did not show up again.


    On their journey back, Zhang Family was tedly counting the copper coins. They had over a thousand in total, which made Zhang Family very joyous.


    This, she thought, was a business that could earn a tael of silver a day!


    You can¡¯t guarantee the supply of field snails and loaches, so the business is not stable.<div>


    Thinking about this, and then remembering the conditions she had mentioned before, the smile on Zhang Family¡¯s face quickly vanished.


    Tong Tiehu said to make her offer, and when she really did, he pped it down hard.


    Ha.


    Recalling Tong Tiehu¡¯s reprimand, her expression turned gloomy.


    Although they had earned many copper coins, they had been sunburned from being outside in the midday sun for half an hour, it was quite tough.


    Having a shop front is much morefortable.


    ¡°Sang, it is too hot to set up a stall like this, make arge umbre when you go home.¡± Therge umbremonly seen in the stalls inter generations was not avable here. In the summer, this was a necessity.


    Tong Sang replied with a ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s arge umbre?¡± Zhang Family curiously asked.


    Qiao Xiaomai exined to her, and Zhang Family listened, making an ¡°oh¡± sound, without saying anything.


    What did she have to say?


    With the family forced to split up, she didn¡¯t want to say anything.


    When they got home quickly, the family excitedly crowded around and asked about the situation, and Zhang Family now smiled again.


    The previously discouraged Tong Xingda immediately regained his spirits. He called Tong Dng, Tong Eng and Tong Sang, and the four of them went to the river to catch loaches and snails again.


    They would sell as much as they could for a few days.


    This time, with the help of Tong Dng and Tong Eng, the four of them brought back a water tank full of creatures by the evening.


    After dinner, Tong Sang heated water for bathing.


    This time he heated three pots, because many people needed to bathe today.


    Once the heating was done, he was about to scoop hot water into the bathtub when Zhang Family appeared at the kitchen door, ¡°Sang,e here, I have something to say to you.¡±<div>


    Tong Sang looked at her, a little confused, ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡±


    ¡°Come out and I¡¯ll tell you.¡± Zhang Family said and turned to walk outside thepound.


    Seeing this, Tong Sang followed her.


    When they reached the entrance of thepound, Tong Sang asked, ¡°Mother, what¡¯s the matter?¡±<div>


    ¡°What is the rtionship between Xiaomai and Prince Wei, really?¡± Zhang Family began, ¡°When you two got married, he even sent so many dowry gifts, and today I saw Xiaomai being very pleasant with him, he¡­¡±


    Before she could finish, Tong Sang coldly interrupted her, ¡°Mother, do you know what you¡¯re talking about?!¡±


    ¡°What did I say?!¡± Zhang Family couldn¡¯t help but p him, ¡°You silly boy, I¡¯m thinking for you! Xiaomai is your wife, she married you out of necessity because of my illness, you¡­¡±


    ¡°Enough!¡± Tong Sang¡¯s voice was as cold as ice, ¡°Mother, don¡¯t say these things again, let¡¯s split up tomorrow.¡±


    Leaving this word behind, Tong Sang walked towards the courtyard.


    His lips were tightly closed, his back was straight, and his fists were tightly clenched.


    Was this really his mother¡­

 Chapter 605: 605: If not for Birth, Aging, Sickness, and Death

    Chapter 605: If not for Birth, Aging, Sickness, and Death


    Tong Sang quickly returned to his own room and saw Qiao Xiaomai sitting under themp, flipping through his books. He took a deep breath, ¡°Xiaomai, get me one thousand and six hundred taels of silver.¡±


    As Qiao Xiaomai saw him enter, she was about to close the book, but when she heard his words, she looked up in surprise, ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡±


    Seeing Tong Sang¡¯s ashen face, she quickly stood up, grabbed his arm, and asked concerningly, ¡°What happened?¡±


    ¡°Mother¡¯s talking nonsense, I can¡¯t tolerate it anymore, I want to give silver to mother, and we¡¯ll separate our households tomorrow.¡± Tong Sang softened his voice, not wanting his terrible mood to affect Qiao Xiaomai.@@novelbin@@


    Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s eyes widened. She was curious about what nonsensical thing the Zhang Family had said, but seeing Tong Sang¡¯s face, she held back her curiosity. She hurriedly retrieved a stack of silver notes from the void, counted out sixteen, and handed them to Tong Sang.


    ¡°Wait here.¡± Tong Sang left these two words and walked out of the room with the banknotes.


    The Zhang Family had also returned to the courtyard and was standing at the kitchen door with a gloomy face.


    Tong Sang strode over and handed the silver notes to her, ¡°Mother, here are the one thousand and six hundred taels of silver you asked for. From now on, unless it is a matter of life or death, do note to find me.¡±


    Unless it¡¯s a matter of life or death, don¡¯te to find me.


    The Zhang Family froze at these words.<div>


    In her memory, although this younger son seemed difficult to approach, he was actually gentle and obedient. When she had threatened him to marry Qiao Xiaomai, he was angry, but he didn¡¯t say anything harsh and obediently went.


    But she never expected that he would say such ruthless words now.


    Not to find him unless it¡¯s life or death is equivalent to severing the mother-son rtionship.


    Looking at Tong Sang¡¯s ashen face, the Zhang Family felt a chill in her heart. Those with good tempers could be terrifying when they became angry, especially after her words thoroughly angered Tong Sang.


    But she soon became angry again, her words were harsh, but who was she doing it for?


    She was doing it for this younger son in front of her!


    She didn¡¯t want her son to be cuckolded and not know it!


    She wasn¡¯t trying to sow discord, she was concerned about Tong Sang!


    Doing a good deed and being treated like a viin, and now he¡¯s angry enough to sever the rtionship.


    This move of severing rtionships must have been learned from Qiao Xiaomai. Who in the whole area has severed a family rtionship?


    She¡¯d only had a good son for a few days, and now he dared to talk to her like this!


    Thinking about this, the Zhang Family raised her hand and pped Tong Sang fiercely, ¡°You fool! Who was I saying those words for? Isn¡¯t it for your own good?¡±


    ¡°Have you grown a fat guts? Daring to sever ties with me, who taught you these rotten tactics? I raised you all these years, is this how you repay me by breaking off rtions?¡±


    The more she spoke, the angrier she became,ining that the p didn¡¯t hurt enough, she caught a glimpse of the dry firewood stacked under the eaves of the kitchen, immediately pulled out a stick as thick as a baby¡¯s arm, and viciously hit Tong Sang, ¡°You ungrateful son, I raised you from diapers to adulthood, and you haven¡¯t shown an ounce of respect. After only a few days of being married, you want to sever ties with me? Dare to say such things, I¡¯ll beat you to death!¡±


    Tong Sang stood still, allowing the Zhang Family¡¯s ps and sticks to fall on him. His back was straight, his handsome face gloomy, and his heart felt as though it had sunk into an ice cer,pletely cold.

 Chapter 638 - 638: Xiaomai Starts a Dispute

    Chapter 638 -638: Xiaomai Starts a Dispute


    "I didn''t promise her at the time. It''s up to you." Tong Sang recounted the situation and concluded this way.


    "What did you go over there for?" Qiao Xiaomai asked.


    "To ask about the work arrangements for the next few days."


    "Why didn''t you tell mest night?"


    "I was afraid you would be upset." Qiao Xiaomai had been clearly in a bad mood these past few days.


    "So you think I''m going to be happy now?" Qiao Xiaomai narrowed her peach blossom eyes at him.


    She was peeling shrimps, her hands full of oil.


    Lately, she truly had been living the life of luxury, running to the town every day, never repeating a meal, buying anything she wanted to eat, regardless of the price, as long as it was avable in Bailu Town.


    She was always generous with herself and her people.


    However, she definitely did not consider the Zhang Family one of her own. They had mentioned before that they would only seek Tong Sang in case of life and death situations. Yet only a few dayster, they had Tong Sang at their sickbed, asking for Buddha Jumps Over the Wall.


    Had they forgotten how they had manipted her and Yang Ye?


    With such thick skin, she couldn''t help but nce at Zhuang Luhe, "Mother, you should learn from Sang''s mother. Just a few days ago she was spreading dirty rumors about me and another man, but now she has the gall to ask me for Buddha Jumps Over the Wall. See, this is what it means to live freely."


    Tong Sang "..."


    Zhuang Luhe "..."


    Qiao Changshun "..."


    To Tong Sang, Qiao Xiaomai''s words were somewhat harsh. What did she mean by ''Sang''s mother''? After all, she was her mother too.


    Zhuang Luhe and Qiao Changshun were shocked. They thought the Tong Family had simply kept their promise made during the marriage proposal. So this was the actual reason behind their separation?


    And Qiao Xiaomai''s disrespectful attitude towards her mother-inw... this was unfilial piety...


    Especially said right in front of Tong Sang, these words were simply heart-wrenching for him.


    The whole table fell silent. Qiao Xiaomai looked up and scanned the room, then smiled, "Let us continue eating, mother. Don''t think I''m just spouting nonsense. I''m serious. Our family has improved a lot. You need to stand tall and confident like a true mistress of a wealthy household."


    "Don''t be like before, tolerating every injustice and acting stingy ¨C it''s all just signs of a petty and petty lifestyle."


    The reason why Zhuang Luhe fell ill was partly due to her physical condition and partly due to her emotional problems.


    She had suffered for half her life, especially in thest six months. Inparison to the torment in her heart, the physical pain was nothing. Nearly every moment, she was tormented by guilt. Now that she had returned home and seen such changes, her feelings of guilt and frustration couldn''t be contained.


    A tidal wave of guilt and despair had erupted simultaneously,bined with her already poor health, which left her bedridden. n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    "Mother, you''ve already had a brush with death, and there''s nothing you can''t let go of now. For instance, this situation: Are you going to watch Sang''s mother demand favors from me after she ndered me? Howe you haven''t inherited your mother''s fierceness?"


    Qiao Xiaomai continued, "Or should I invite Grandma here to teach you a thing or two?"


    When she was in a good mood, Zhang Family could get away with it. She would let it slide for the sake of Tong Sang.


    But recently her mood has been poor, and if they had the nerve to irritate her during this time, they couldn''t me her for snapping back.


    That was just her nature, and when she truly got angry, she was fearless and even she herself was scared.


    And these were her true feelings. Part of the reason she sought Zhuang Luhe was because she hoped there would be someone, an elder, at home who could stand up to the Zhang Family. Otherwise, being a junior, she was at a disadvantage in in sight.


    After witnessing Hua Xiaofeng''s behavior, she was even more convinced of this idea.

 Chapter 607: 607: Beat to Death

    Chapter 607: Chapter 607: Beat to Death


    Upon hearing Tong Sang¡¯s words, a moment of silence befell the courtyard.


    By this time, Tong Dalong, Tong Erlong, and others had all stood up, and upon hearing these words, they were stunned into silence.


    These words¡­it seemed like this was the real deal¡­


    Tong Tiehu, upon hearing this, furrowed his brows and asked, ¡°What exactly did your mother say?¡±


    ¡°She said that there might be something going on between Xiaomai and His Highness, Prince Wei,¡± Tong Sang didn¡¯t hide anything and came right out with it.


    His words echoed in the courtyard, plunging it into an even deeper silence.


    Never mind Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s reputation, these words involved His Highness, Prince Wei.


    Prince Wei was currently residing in the town, and the Tong Family had just had their property confiscated by the retiring emperor, and now they were spreading rumors about Prince Wei¡­


    They must be tired of living in peace.


    Upon hearing this, Tong Tiehu was so angry that he nearly choked. Taking a deep breath, his trembling voice filled with boundless fury, hemanded, ¡°Xingda, beat her mercilessly! Even if she¡¯s beaten to death, we¡¯ll just say she suddenly became critically ill and passed away!¡±<div>


    What use was there in keeping such a trouble-inviting mouth around?@@novelbin@@


    To be rid of her would solve everything!


    Tong Xingda acknowledged the order, picking up the stick that Zhang Family had just used and ruthlesslyshed out at Zhang on the ground, ¡°You old hag, do you want our family to fall even harder? I¡¯ll teach you a lesson for all your chatter!¡±


    Tong Xingda was always rough and brutal when punishing people. Now, angered by Zhang¡¯s words, his blows were even more fierce and merciless, as if he truly intended to beat her to death.


    Zhang instantly covered her head and began to wail in agony. Realizing Tong Xingda¡¯s vicious and relentless assault, she immediately screamed for help, ¡°Eldest Son, Second Son, quickly restrain your father, save me!¡±


    ¡°Even the king of heaven can¡¯t save you today!¡± Tong Xingda spat out venomously, swinging his stick and foot at her, ¡°Wench, you always cause trouble out of nothing, you are the real troublemaker, one day you¡¯ll get our whole family involved!¡±


    Zhang, seeing that all three of her sons remained motionless, felt both grief and anger. In her evasion, she identally caught sight of Qiao Xiaomai, who was calmly standing at the door watching her, which made her even angrier, ¡°Isn¡¯t it obvious that she¡¯s close with His Highness?¡±


    ¡°Shut your filthy mouth, I¡¯ll tear it to shreds!¡± Tong Xingda, seeing her unrepentant attitude, promptly discarded his stick, pinned Zhang down with one hand around her neck, and repeatedly pped her face with his free hand.


    ¡°Prince Wei is a subject of your casual fabrication? Foolish woman, I¡¯ll let you blurt nonsense, I¡¯ll let you!¡±


    The smacking sounds echoed through the courtyard, one after another, chilling to the bone.


    Qiao Xiaomai stood emotionless at the door, her face calm.


    But clearly, she was secretly thrilled.


    As expected, the Zhangdy had gone too far.


    Had she fabricated rumors about her and other men, Tong Xingda might not have reacted so violently. However, she had fabricated rumors about Yang Ye and herself.


    This was serious.


    The Yang Ye she mentioned was a prestigious royal prince of Daqi, shining with dignity and honor. To nder him this way suggested that she must have a bear¡¯s courage and a leopard¡¯s gall.


    While Yang Ye appeared jovial daily, seeming to have a great temper, she would never forget their first encounter.


    Back then, Yang Ye was haughty, emanating an imperial aura, his words werew. Had the head of the valley not intervened, she might have ended up working as a kitchen maid in the Prince Wei Residence out of desperation.


    She mustn¡¯t overlook his royal status no matter how kindly he treated her now.<div>

 Chapter 608: 608: Must Divide the Family

    Chapter 608: Chapter 608: Must Divide the Family


    Tong Xingda brutally beat up the Zhang Family, and no one stepped forward to stop him.


    With several ps, he turned the Zhang Family¡¯s face into a bloody mess. He wasn¡¯t satisfied yet, so he picked up a wooden stick and fiercely beat the Zhang Family.


    Eventually, the Zhang Family fell unconscious from the beating.


    Tong Xingda dropped the stick and sat on the ground, huffing and puffing. Beating someone up was quite exhausting.


    Seeing this, Tong Sang handed him the silver note, ¡°Father, keep this silver note. Regarding what I just said, I won¡¯t change my mind.¡±


    Upon hearing these words, Tong Xingda instantly jumped to his feet, ¡°You lousy brat! That was something your mother said! What does it have to do with me?!¡±


    ¡°Are you just looking for an excuse to separate the family?!¡±


    Thinking of this possibility, Tong Xingda couldn¡¯t help but lift his leg and kick Tong Sang, ¡°You unfilial son, you deserve a beating!¡±


    Seeing this, Qiao Xiaomai hastily ran over to intervene, ¡°Father, what are you doing? Can¡¯t we talk things over?¡±


    She rushed to Tong Sang¡¯s side, gently pulled him aside, and managed to avoid Tong Xingda¡¯s second kick.<div>


    Tong Xingda angrily red at her, ¡°Xiaomai, tell me, was this idea to split the family yours?¡±


    Jo-Odd Wheat widened her eyes at his words, ¡°Father, we agreed before the wedding that we would separate after my mother¡¯s illness was cured. I didn¡¯t instigate this, it was a promise you made when you went to my house for the marriage proposal.¡±


    Was she the instigator?


    How unjust that would be.@@novelbin@@


    Tong Xingda was quite flustered, and upon hearing Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s words, he seemed a bit awkward, ¡°Although that¡¯s what was said, wasn¡¯t the n to wait a few more days until the stall is established?¡±


    ¡°Yes, but tonight, my mother was raving mad and annoyed Sang. Besides, didn¡¯t my mother want the silver? Now that she has it, she should be satisfied.¡±


    ¡°She is her, I am me, I didn¡¯t say those words.¡± Tong Xingda wanted to stall for some time.


    Not to mention anything else, but just Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s cooking skills alone were something he didn¡¯t want to lose from separating the family.


    Currently, during this confusing stage of his life, he couldn¡¯t gather any motivation. The only thing he liked now was Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s cooking.


    If they really separated and Zhang Family, Li Rou, Zhu Hongyun were to cook, he would not be able to stomach their food and would end up feeding it to the pigs.


    ¡°The words tonight weren¡¯t yours, but the words during the proposal were.¡± Tiehu spoke out with a serious face, ¡°At that time, Xiaomai didn¡¯t want to get married, but to temporarily appease your wife, she married anyway.¡±


    ¡°She was considerate and loyal, so we should also keep our promise. No more talk, we¡¯re splitting the family tomorrow!¡±


    ¡°Father, look at this stupid woman half-dead, how are we to split?¡± Tong Xingda couldn¡¯t help yelling and kicked Zhang Family.


    ¡°Lift her onto the cow cart and split!¡± Tong Tiehu coldly huffed, ¡°Enough nonsense, we¡¯re splitting tomorrow!¡±


    Tong Xingda saw the determination from Tong Tiehu, and could only sigh. He nced at the silver note in Tong Sang¡¯s hand, and walked over to take it, ¡°You wretched kid.¡±


    While scolding, he didn¡¯t forget to p Tong Sang a couple of times.


    Tong Tiehu red at the scene, and coldly asked, ¡°What are you nning to do with this silver note?¡±


    ¡°Just spend it.¡± Tong Xingda nonchntly replied.


    ¡°Remember, this is the allowance for the next year. Once this money is spent, Sang and Xiaomai won¡¯t give you a penny.¡±<div>


    ¡°If they don¡¯t give, they don¡¯t give. Can they starve me?¡± Tong Xingda impatiently put the silver note into his pocket and walked towards the door.


    Something held Tong Tiehu back, and he decided to remain silent.


    Tong Xingda didn¡¯t have any expensive hobbies, and this was money given to him and Zhang Family by Tong Sang and Qiao Xiaomai; he had no right to control it.


    Forget it, he¡¯ll be more cautious in the future.<div>

 Chapter 641: 641: Face off with Tong Xingda

    Chapter 641: Chapter 641: Face off with Tong Xingda


    In the evening, Qiao Qinghe appeared in the Qiao family¡¯s small courtyard, and the family had a quite harmonious dinner together.


    Qiao Qinghe solemnly thanked Zhuang Luhe. If it weren¡¯t for his indulgence over the years, the Sun family would not have turned to banditry.


    Zhuang Luhe dared not ept Qiao Qinghe¡¯s gratitude and quickly stepped aside.


    Talking about the past inevitably led to tearful emotions. They spent the whole evening untilte night having dinner.


    The next day, Qiao Changshun followed the workers to the fields. Since Zhuang Luhe¡¯s return, he had been revolving around her, not having gone to the fields for several days. He needed to check on them.


    He also had to assign some work to Qiao Qinghe, and he needed to check on that as well.


    Qiao Xiaomai followed him too.


    The water from the Spiritual Spring was inexhaustible. She had to irrigate the crops more to earn a big fortune at the time of the autumn harvest.


    Zhuang Luhe stayed at home sewing clothes, with the sisters Qiao Zhaodi and Qiao Yindi apanying her.


    Truthfully, she felt somewhat awkward in front of the two sisters. Although it was Qiao Chang¡¯an who had made the mistake, to have these two sisters be¡­ domestic ves¡­<div>


    But thinking of Qiao Xiaomai, she wiped away her tears and didn¡¯t dwelve too much into it.


    If it wasn¡¯t for Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s ingenious strategies, she didn¡¯t dare to think where Xiaomai would be now.


    Well, since things had turned out this way, she would just have to ept it.


    She needed to recuperate from her poor health, and having people to help with the household chores was indeed rather nice.


    In the evening, when the workers came to settle their wages, Zhuang Luhe subconsciously hid in the house, and Xiaomai didn¡¯t stop her. No need to rush things.


    Days passed like this, with Xiaomai and Tong Sang staying at the Qiao family¡¯s ce. One day at noon, when Zhuang Luhe had finished cooking lunch, the family gathered around the dining table for lunch.


    Lately, Tong Sang had been teaching Qiao Dami how to read whenever he was free. The lunchtime conversation revolved around this topic, and since discussing education was a positive topic, everyone had a smile on their face. Suddenly, the courtyard gate was knocked, ¡°Sang, Xiaomai!¡±


    It was a powerful male voice, it was Tong Xingda.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om


    Hearing the voice, Tong Sang immediately stood up, rapidly walking towards the gate. His heart was racing, wondering what Tong Xingda wasing over for¡­


    The courtyard gate was opened, and Tong Xingda poked his head in to look around. Seeing a group of people gathered around the dining table, he immediatelyughed, ¡°Changsun, this isn¡¯t fair, you have turned Sang into a son-inw.¡±


    Tong Xingda said these words in jest, but Qiao Changsun didn¡¯t dare to treat it as a joke and quickly replied, ¡°No, Luhe is not feeling well, so Xiaomai decided to stay and take care of her for a few days.¡±


    ¡°Oh, our daughter-inw has returned home from work.¡± Noticing Zhuang Luhe, Tong Xingda greeted her.


    Zhuang Luheughed in an awkward manner, not saying a word.


    Tong Xingda made his way into the courtyard, ¡°You¡¯re having your meal just in time. Let¡¯s eat together.¡±


    ¡°Yes, let¡¯s eat together,¡± Qiao Changsun quickly stood up and went into the kitchen to fetch some chopsticks.


    Tong Xingda sat down, took a bite from the dishes, and then furrowed his brow. Something was off about the taste, ¡°Who made this?¡±


    ¡°Luhe made it, what¡¯s wrong?¡± Qiao Changsun replied.


    ¡°Oh, it seems different with Xiaomai around. Xiaomai, even aftering back home you still let your mother-inw cook, huh?¡± Tong Xingda turned to look at Qiao Xiaomai. Even though he was smiling, there was a hint of sarcasm in his tone.


    Upon hearing his words, a faint smile appeared on Xiaomai¡¯s face, ¡°After all, my value in the family is well known. I can¡¯t just be cooking in the kitchen all day.¡±<div>


    ¡°No matter how valuable you are, you are still younger when ites to elders.¡± Tong Xingda was not expecting Xiaomai¡¯s nonchnt reply, and his smile instantly disappeared.


    ¡°It¡¯s true that I¡¯m younger, but my mom simply doesn¡¯t want me to work.¡±

 Chapter 610: 610: Finally Separated from the Family

    Chapter 610: Chapter 610: Finally Separated from the Family


    Tong Sang then stood up and went to invite Dr. Wu over.


    Dr. Wu did a simple treatment for Mrs. Zhang, fiddling around untilte into the night before leaving.


    When Tong Sang entered the room again, Qiao Xiaomai was boredly cutting out window flower patterns with a pair of scissors. Seeing him enter, she quickly put her stuff away. ¡°How is my mother?¡±


    ¡°Not very well, she has to rest in bed for a month.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Qiao Xiaomai let out a sound, and lifted her hand to touch her nose.


    Well¡­ at least she could be peaceful for a month.


    Cough, she couldn¡¯t show such thoughts, so she gestured to Tong Sang toe over, ¡°Come, go to bed.¡±


    Tong Sang did not say much and went to bed as instructed.


    The two didn¡¯t talk, and the night quickly passed.


    In the morning, the two of them got up to prepare breakfast.<div>


    ording to the usual practice, after getting married, all the wives should take turns in cooking.


    But now Zhu Hongyun had gone back to her parent¡¯s home, and Li Rou imed she was tired from taking care of the two children, so Xiaomai ended up being the one in charge of cooking.


    Qiao Xiaomai didn¡¯t mind this. After all, they were about to divide the property.


    This was thest meal before they divided the family property.


    She boiled a pot of white rice, corn, and jujube porridge, fried eggs, cooked vegetable pancake, and atst, stir-fried pig meat.


    This breakfast was quite abundant in the Tong Family. After eating, Tong Xingda¡¯s face turned even grimmer, and he sat by the dining table, not moving.


    Tong Tiehu swallowed thest mouthful of porridge, and then put down his chopsticks. He looked at everyone at the dining table and said, ¡°Everybody, start packing up.¡±@@novelbin@@


    ¡°Xiaomai, go back home and get a bullock cart to help move things.¡±


    Bed and cupboard, things like these arerge items, two bullock carts wouldn¡¯t be enough.


    Qiao Xiaomai nodded. ¡°Alright.¡±


    It was also like a statement to Qiao Changsun, that finally the family was being split.


    Then Qiao Xiaomai went back to the Qiao Family, and before Qiao Changsun left to work in the field, she set aside a bullock cart.


    Indeed, when Qiao Changsun heard her words, he was very happy. Mrs. Zhang¡¯s illness got better, Qiao Xiaomai had obvious effects in bringing good luck, and now the Tong Family were dividing up the family, as promised during the marriage proposal. From now on, Qiao Xiaomai and Tong Sang would live in the old courtyard, it would be quiet andfortable.


    ¡°In my opinion, you and Sang shouldn¡¯t ask for anything. You guys should buy new pots, bowls, tes, and basins from the town. As for thend, those dozen or so acres, it¡¯s not worth fighting with them over.¡± Qiao Changshun said.


    ording to his thoughts, if Qiao Xiaomai and Tong Sang acted generously, not causing any disputes, try to treat the other members of the Tong Family as well as possible, and be polite.


    After listening to these words, Qiao Xiaomai was somewhat speechless, ¡°Dad, if that happens, wouldn¡¯t Sang be considered as marrying into our family?¡±


    ¡°How could he be considered as marrying into our family? The two of you will be living in the Tong family¡¯s old courtyard.¡±


    ¡°After the manor ispleted, both of us will move over there. By that time, if Sang lives in our house and hasn¡¯t taken anything from the Tong family, wouldn¡¯t that be considered as him marrying into our family?¡±


    This would sever the connection between Tong Sang and the Tong Family. Certainly, Tong Tiehu and Tong Xingda would not be willing.<div>


    ¡°I didn¡¯t consider it thoroughly.¡± Qiao Changsun said, rubbing his hands together, ¡°You guys figure it out.¡±


    With Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s character, she wouldn¡¯t suffer losses.


    ¡°I have made a decision, you don¡¯t have to worry.¡± Xiaomai replied, then led the bullock cart back to the Tong Family.


    When she returned, the Tong Family¡¯s two bullock carts were already fully loaded. Seeing her return, Tong Sang began to load stuff onto the cart she brought back.<div>


    Only Qiao Xiaomai and Tong Sang were left in the Tong Family¡¯s old courtyard; all the other items had to be moved to the new house.


    The three bullock carts took a whole morning to move all the stuff from the old courtyard to the new house, big items like tables and cupboards, and small ones like brooms and spats were all moved over.


    Qiao Xiaomai didn¡¯t take any of the pots, bowls, tes, and basins. All were moved to the new house.

 Chapter 611: Only You are Accompanying Me Now

    Chapter 611: Chapter 611: Only You are Apanying Me Now


    As agreed before, the family¡¯s farnd should not be divided. Like before, during the farming season, everyone had to work in the fields.


    No one disagreed with this point, so Li Rou finally picked some vegetables from the vegetable garden, got on the ox cart, and left. Zhang was already taken away to the new house, and only Tong Sang and Qiao Xiaomai were left in the house.


    Even though they were all reluctant, Tong Tiehu had given a strict order and, with the bloody example of Zhang Family ahead, everyone eventually moved away.


    Tong Sang stood in the courtyard, staring at the empty courtyard, silent.


    Qiao Xiaomai walked over, wrapped her arms around his arm, gently shook him a few times, and said, ¡°Shall we go home for dinner?¡±


    ¡°Alright.¡± Tong Sang responded, wrapping her shoulders in his arm and pulling her into his embrace. ¡°From now on, you are the only one who will be with me.¡±


    ¡°And you are the only one who will be with me.¡± Qiao Xiaomai embraced him with her arms as well.


    Whether parents or children, they will all eventually leave.


    The only one who can truly apany you throughout your life is your spouse.


    When the two people arrived at the Qiao Family house, Qiao Changshun had already prepared lunch. He had made noodles, though he had clearly prepared a bit too much.


    Seeing the two people return, he immediately startedughing, ¡°The food just got ready, you have good timing.¡±


    Qiao Dami stood up and rushed to Qiao Xiaomai, looking up at her and asking, ¡°Sister, is it true that the family has been divided?¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai smiled brightly as she picked him up, ¡°Yes, it is.¡±


    ¡°I really wish Sister and Brother Tong woulde back to live with us.¡± Qiao Dami wrapped his little arms around her neck, his small face full of expectation.


    With one less person at home, it feels so empty¡­


    Sometimes, he didn¡¯t know what to do.


    @@novelbin@@


    ¡°No, after a period of time, when Brother Tong and I move to the manor, you and Dad will follow, alright?¡±


    ¡°What about Mom? Didn¡¯t they say that they were going to find her?¡± Qiao Dami asked.


    ¡°Mom? I guess we¡¯ll hear from her in a couple of days.¡± Calcting the time, it was about time for some news from Tingfeng Pavilion.


    ¡°Really?!¡±


    ¡°Really?!¡±


    Both Qiao Changshun and Qiao Dami asked in unison, their faces filled with joy and surprise.


    Qiao Xiaomai nodded firmly, ¡°Really. Tingfeng Pavilion will send a message.¡±


    ¡°My, this is¡­¡± Qiao Changshun was overjoyed, rubbing his big hands together, too choked up with emotion to say a word.


    Seeing his delighted expression, Qiao Xiaomai also smiled, ¡°Dad, we are now leading a life where we eat white flour and rice every day. When Momes back, she will definitely be surprised.¡±


    The wish that was made when she named herself and Qiao Dami, was finally about toe true.


    When Qiao Changshun heard these words, he became even happier, his mouth just wouldn¡¯t close, ¡°All of this is thanks to you.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s also thanks to the Sun Family. If it weren¡¯t for them intending to sell me to the brothel, I wouldn¡¯t havee up with various ways of making food. People¡¯s potential is always forced out.¡± Qiao Xiaomai said.


    Zhuang Luhe would surely notice her changes when shees back.


    So she had to attribute the cause to this: she had unleashed her potential during a crisis, and her thoughts had taken flight. Things she couldn¡¯t think of or do in the past, she had figured out now.


    Upon hearing Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s words, Qiao Changshun¡¯s face stiffened for a moment.


    He inevitably thought back to the day Zhuang Luhe left.


    Qiao Xiaomai smiled knowingly and continued, ¡°Dad, we¡¯ve severed ties with the Sun Family now. After Momes back, she will never be bullied by the Sun Family again.¡±

 Chapter 612: How to Relieve Worry?

    Chapter 612: Chapter 612: How to Relieve Worry?


    That was true indeed. Recollecting the beating Zhuang Luhe used to endure from the Sun Family, Qiao Changshun couldn¡¯t refrain from nodding heavily, ¡°That¡¯s right.¡±


    The house is currently filled with joy. Zhuang Luhe hase to live with them, enjoying the fruits of their struggle.


    She had suffered too much in the past, but now she has finally turned the tide.


    Thinking of the surprised expression Zhuang Luhe would show when she saw the state of the house, Qiao Changshun felt cheerful again, ¡°Should we fix up the house a bit?¡± Their house hadn¡¯t been spruced up for a year now, so it was overdue for some attention.


    ¡°How should we spruce it up?¡±


    ¡°Clean it up, get some new furniture?¡± suggested Qiao Changshun.


    ¡°No need, we¡¯ll all move to the manorter,¡± said Qiao Xiaomai.


    Cen Hong has been appearing frequently, which indicates that Yang Wang still harbors doubts about that brick.


    So, Qiao Changshun and Qiao Dami should also move. Let Yang Wang decide what to do with this house when the timees.


    Anyway, after the back-and-forth meddling from Tong Sang and her, that piece ofnd has mixed with the surrounding area and doesn¡¯t seem out of ce anymore.


    Upon hearing this, Qiao Changshun thought for a moment, then nodded, ¡°Sounds good. Let¡¯s eat, we¡¯ve been busy all morning, must be hungry by now.¡±


    ¡°Alright, let¡¯s eat.¡± Xiaomai looked at Tong Sang.


    Tong Sang had been the one doing most of the work that morning while she had just been passively lending a hand.


    ¡°Let¡¯s eat.¡± Tong Sang said with a faint smile on his handsome face.


    The atmosphere of the Qiao Family was far better than his home¡¯s. So sweet and innocent, it was lovely.


    @@novelbin@@


    After a not-so-delicious lunch, Xiaomai and Tong Sang, apanied by Dami, headed to the town.


    They had many things to buy, their house didn¡¯t even have a broom anymore, so recements were needed.


    The kitchenware and pots were all made of iron, they didn¡¯t have a choice with them. However, there was a variety to select from for bowls. If they chose aesthetically pleasing bowls that suited their taste, it would certainly enhance their mood when eating.


    But after inspecting the grocery store, Xiaomai frowned.


    This was after all ancient times, not asvish and varied as the supermarkets in the modern world. After looking around, she didn¡¯t find anything she particrly liked.


    Tong Sang noticed her expression and asked the shopkeeper, ¡°Shopkeeper, can these bowls and tes be customized?¡±


    ¡°How would you like them customized?¡± the shopkeeper asked.


    ¡°Bring some drawings and transfer those designs onto the bowls and tes¡±


    ¡°Alright,¡± the shopkeeper agreed without hesitation, ¡°But it¡¯ll cost more.¡±


    ¡°No problem,¡± Tong Sang looked at Xiaomai, who said cheerfully, ¡°You can just name your price, shopkeeper.¡±


    Tong Sang¡¯s idea was exactly what she wanted!


    These are things they use every day, they should customize to fit their own taste!


    Since they decided to customize, they could only buy some ordinary coarse porcin bowls and tes for now. After buying the bowls and dishes, they needed to buy rice and flour. Other than her and Tong Sang¡¯s room, the other rooms in the house werepletely empty.


    After buying the rice and flour, they bought some other essentials for their home. The bullock cart was piled high with their purchases, and the three did not return to the vige until dusk.


    Xiaomai made a quick dinner, and after dinner, she took Dami back to the Qiao Family home.


    Then they returned to the quiet Tong Family home.


    A candle was lit in the kitchen and another one in the room, adding light to the pitch-ck night.


    Of course, it was iparable to modern lighting, but she had adjusted to it. She held Tong Sang¡¯s hand with one hand and stretched the other out, ¡°Finally, we have a home that ispletely ours.¡±


    She couldn¡¯t hide the joy in her voice, causing Tong Sang to break into a smile as well.


    He also extended his arm but then, after a moment, turned around, embraced Xiaomai, and leaned in to kiss her lips.


    Xiaomai opened her lips to wee his gentle kiss.


    She knew he was not in a good mood, so she would help him forget about all those troubles.


    The two of them didn¡¯t even care about taking a bath, they held onto each other and went back to their room. They couldn¡¯t bear to break their kiss even for a moment.


    How can one ease the worries?


    Only through lovemaking.

 Chapter 613: 613

    Chapter 613: Chapter 613


    Only the two of them were left in the house, and Qiao Xiaomai no longer felt embarrassed.


    Tong Sang clearly liked to hear her voice, holding her tightly, whispering in her ear, ¡°Xiaomai, Xiaomai¡­.¡±


    As if he had lost all othernguage, those two words were the only thing left in his mind.


    She was the only one left in his eyes.


    She loved him.


    And as she wished, the young man before her finally, wholly, belonged to her.


    The insatiable greed of the Tong Family had pushed him into her arms,pletely into her arms.


    She hadn¡¯t schemed or plotted anything; the Tong Family had actually helped her.


    Thinking of this, she couldn¡¯t help but want tough.


    The joy in her heart spread to her face, making her look like a blooming spring flower, the adorable dimples by her mouth making Tong Sang¡¯s gaze deepen.<div>


    Qiao Xiaomai held onto his sturdy shoulders tightly with her arms as white as snow, feeling his strength and gentleness with an even brighter smile on her face.


    She knew he wasn¡¯t happy, but on this matter, she really couldn¡¯t force herself to be as distressed as he was.


    The two needing to vent their emotions kept it up until midnight. Tong Sang was venting the indescribable stress in his heart; Qiao Xiaomai was expressing the joy that made her feel like jumping even when walking.


    Once the room quieted down, Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s fair skin was full of marks; Tong Sang had arguably been a bit rough.


    He looked guilty, asking, ¡°Did it hurt?¡±


    ¡°Considering how loud I was, do you think it hurt?¡± Qiao Xiaomai pped him.


    Her hand hit his skin, making a crisp sound.


    Then Qiao Xiaomai somehow remembered the scene of Tong Xingda pping the Zhang Family¡¯s womanst night, and she couldn¡¯t help but rub the spot she had just pped.


    Tong Xingda totally inherited Tong Tiehu¡¯s straightforward brutality, but at least Tiehu didn¡¯t abuse his family, making him slightly better than Xingda.


    But Tong Sang didn¡¯t inherit this trait at all; he was stable and calm.


    ¡°Don¡¯t take a bath, just go to sleep like this,¡± Qiao Xiaomai clung tightly to him, her body feelingnguid and not wanting to move.@@novelbin@@


    And Tong Sang¡¯s body¡­.


    She would see what it looked like tomorrow.


    ¡°Go to sleep soon!¡± she urged.


    At this moment, Tong Sang actually just wanted to hold Qiao Xiaomai. Noticing that she didn¡¯t seem ufortable, he followed her instructions, waving his hand to extinguish the candle.


    The room fell into darkness.


    The curtains were drawn, and the moonlight outside could not prate. The room was so dark that they couldn¡¯t see anything.


    In the silence and darkness, the two held each other, listening to each other¡¯s breathing, and soon fell asleep.


    As she fell asleep, Qiao Xiaomai did not notice the abnormal urrence in her space. A milky-white substance appeared and quickly vanished in the water, causing the bruises on her body to fade rapidly.<div>


    The next day, Qiao Xiaomai woke up on time ording to her biological clock, feeling refreshed and invigorated.


    Less than two hours of sleep did not affect herplexion at all.


    But Tong Sang was still asleep.


    She blinked, a bad feeling surging in her heart.<div>


    Could it be¡­


    He shouldn¡¯t be this weak¡­


    [Now that the Xiaomai¡¯s Spiritual Spring will no longer upgrade, once Sang¡¯s body absorbs all the spiritual energy from the Water Drop Pendant, the Spiritual Spring will be a real Spiritual Spring drop~]

 Chapter 614: 614: Are You Scared?

    Chapter 614: Chapter 614: Are You Scared?


    Tong Sang did not wake, and Qiao Xiaomai carefully got up from bed and washed up.


    The firewood was running out, so she locked the courtyard door and went up the mountain to collect more.


    By the time she descended from the mountain, the sky was bright. After she returned, she cooked a pot of rice porridge and steamed an egg custard.


    After a simple breakfast, she began cleaning house. The guests from the Tong Family the day before had only taken their belongings and left without tidying up the rooms.


    She was busy until noon when Tong Sang finally woke upnguidly.


    Qiao Xiaomai sat on the edge of the bed and looked at him worriedly, ¡°Are you awake? How do you feel?¡±


    As a martial artist, Tong Sang¡¯s consciousness was clear the moment he woke up.


    He tried to lift his arm, and a tinge of embarrassment appeared on his handsome face, ¡°I feel a bit tired.¡±


    His body feltpletely drained.


    Upon hearing this, Qiao Xiaomai blinked, ¡°Why does it look like you¡¯re the one who¡¯s undergone a splitting headache, not me?¡±<div>


    Good question. Tong Sang was silent for a moment before he finally said, ¡°Qiao the fox.¡±


    Upon hearing these three words, Qiao Xiaomai burst intoughter, ¡°Are you scared?¡±


    ¡°No, I¡¯d willingly die for you,¡± Tong Sang replied solemnly.


    ¡°Stop with the dying talk.¡± Qiao Xiaomai gave him a look of annoyance, then stood up. ¡°I¡¯ll bring some water for you to wash.¡±


    The food she made in the morning ended up being eaten for lunch.


    Tong Sang took a bowl of steamed egg and ate leisurely, while Qiao Xiaomai spread out a piece of rice paper, ready to draw the pattern imprinted on the bowl and dish.


    Seeing what she was doing, Tong Sang suggested, ¡°Why not draw wheat ears, like the ones on the umbre I gave you.¡±


    ¡°Nope, when guestse over for meals, they¡¯ll all be eating from bowls with my imprint, how would that look?¡± Qiao Xiaomai rebutted him, pen in hand, she quickly drew a cute chubby child.


    ¡°What¡¯s this?¡± Tong Sang asked, puzzled.


    ¡°This is a good luck charm, a character that has everything in his pocket.¡± Qiao Xiaomai exined the story of the character, took out a cushion of it from her space and gave it to Tong Sang.


    ¡°When I saw it for the first time as a child, I really liked it. I always hoped that this guy¡¯s pocket could bring out a mom, a Santa us, or anything I wanted.¡±


    Tong Sang listened and nodded, ¡°Then let it be.¡±@@novelbin@@


    What a nice expectation.


    So innocent!


    ¡°What do you want to draw?¡± Qiao Xiaomai asked him.


    ¡°Wheat ears, just for me, I¡¯ll use it exclusively, holding you in my palm every day.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai ¡°¡­¡±


    She couldn¡¯t help butugh again, ¡°Okay.¡±


    Tong Sang felt weak, so they didn¡¯t do anything all day, just leaned on the desk to draw and write.<div>


    It was soon evening, and Tong Sang could get out of bed. He started a fire to cook dinner for Qiao Xiaomai.


    They ran out of oil at home. They bought some pork fat yesterday, and Qiao Xiaomai nned to render it intord.


    She cut the pork fat into small pieces and put them into the pot. ced it on medium heat and slowly cooked it. Soon the white pork fat began to render its own fats.


    The leftover fried bits from oil rendering are also a delicacy. Qiao Xiaomai fried rice in one pot and rendered oil in another.<div>


    Fried bits mixed with rice, simple and delicious.


    It was the first time Tong Sang had seen this method of eating. People here mainly eat wheat and millet as staples, and the leftover bits from oil rendering are usually stir-fried with vegetables and eaten with steamed buns.


    ¡°Actually, it¡¯s all the same. It¡¯s delicious with steamed buns and absolutely not bad with rice,¡± Qiao Xiaomai filled a bowl with rice and scooped a spoonful of leftover bits on top, ¡°Try it, it¡¯s so fragrant.¡±


    Tong Sang took the bowl from her and was about to pick up the chopsticks when the knocking came from outside, ¡°Sang, Xiaomai, open the door!¡±

 Chapter 615: 615: I Will Come Here for Meals From Now On

    Chapter 615: Chapter 615: I Will Come Here for Meals From Now On


    Tong Xingda has arrived.


    Tong Sang put down his bowl and stood up to open the door.


    Outside, Tong Xingda had a towel around his neck and a fan in his hand, fanning himself and wiping sweat as he walked.


    Seeing the courtyard door open, he stepped in and asked, ¡°Have you cooked yet?¡±


    ¡°Yes, we have.¡±


    ¡°What food?¡±


    ¡°Pork fat mixed with rice.¡±


    ¡°What?¡± Tong Xingda was confused as he had never heard of this way of eating before.@@novelbin@@


    ¡°It¡¯s the leftover fat from cooking oil mixed with white rice,¡± Tong Sang exined.


    ¡°You two are eating this after a long day?¡± Tong Xingda asked as he stepped into the kitchen.<div>


    A pleasant aroma filled the air. Tong Xingda took a deep breath, his dissatisfaction fading slightly. He nced at Qiao Xiaomai by the stove, ¡°Give me a bowl. And did you make that Sour Plum Soup today, Xiaomai?¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai called out to him, and started to spoon out some white rice, ¡°I didn¡¯t make it today.¡±


    The reason she used to make Sour Plum Soup was for Tong Sang to drink. Now, with just the two of them, drinking from the pond would suffice.


    ¡°Make a pot for tomorrow. I need to water the fields, and you can bring it to the fields,¡± Tong Xingda ordered.


    ¡°Alright,¡± she replied.


    Tong Sang was also going the next day, so she could just take it along.


    Anyway, they were family, a pot of Sour Plum Soup wouldn¡¯t make much of a difference.


    ¡°How¡¯s mother doing?¡± she asked as she handed him a bowl.


    ¡°She¡¯s awake, just lying in bed.¡± Tong Xingda took the bowl, grabbed a pair of chopsticks, and headed out of the kitchen to the tree, where he began to eat heartily.


    The pork fat was vored with condiments, tasting absolutely delicious. The aroma of the white rice was tantalizing. Thebination was no lesser than any delicacy.


    Tong Xingda gulped down half a bowl to satiate his hunger, and thenmented, ¡°Xiaomai, your cooking is quite good.¡±


    With Zhang¡¯s wife in bed and Zhu Hongyun not around, Qian and Li Rou were in charge of the meals at the new house.


    Having never tasted Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s cooking before, he didn¡¯t think there was anything wrong with their food. But after tasting the dishes prepared by her, he found their meals almost inedible.


    He had nned toe over at noon, but got dyed by Tong Tiehu who had asked him to collect firewood on the mountain.


    So, he nned his visit to coincide with dinner after doing all the chores in the evening.


    ¡°Xiaomai, I think I¡¯ll be having my meals here from now on. Remember to cook a little extra,¡± Tong Xingda suggested, although he seemed to have already made up his mind.


    Qiao Xiaomai nodded and smiled in agreement.


    As Tong Sang¡¯s father, she couldn¡¯t refuse him a meal, could she?


    The remark Tong Sang had made about not reaching out unless absolutely necessary was intended for Zhang¡¯s wife. Tong Xingda insisted that it didn¡¯t apply to him. What choice did she and Tong Sang have but to ept?<div>


    ¡°However, sometimes, Sang and I might not be at home,¡± Qiao Xiaomai mentioned.


    ¡°Not at home?¡± Tong Xingda looked at her in confusion.


    ¡°We¡¯re going to County Town the day after tomorrow. We should have some news about the Tingfeng Pavilion we had asked Sang to inquire about,¡± she said.


    ¡°Oh, have you heard news about your mother?¡±<div>


    ¡°We should have.¡±


    ¡°Alright then, I¡¯ll just return home when you¡¯re not around.¡± Tong Xingda replied casually. The distance between the new and old courtyards was not too far, unlike the Qiao Family house, which was a quarter of an hour away.


    Considering the food at the new house was awful, he decided toe here for meals every day.

 Chapter 648: Sentencing

    Chapter 648: Chapter 648: Sentencing


    The next day, Qiao Xiaomai and Tong Sang really went to see Doctor Wu.


    Doctor Wu took her pulse, and the result was that everything was normal.


    She was not pregnant.


    n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om


    This result made both of them breathe a sigh of relief.


    Tong Sang began to study hard, but he still went to work in the fields when it was necessary.


    Not only did he do his own work, but he also did Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s share.


    Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s days became leisurely. Zhuang L¨¹he cooked meals, Qiao Zhaodi and Qiao Yindi did house chores, and she could do whatever she wanted each day.


    With nothing to do, she went to the manor every day to oversee the progress of the construction, go up the hill to check the fruit trees, and go down to the fields to check all types of crops being nted.


    She worked hard to sprinkle Spiritual Spring water on the roots of these crops. Fortunately, the weather was hot now, and as soon as she sprinkled it, it dried quickly, leaving no trace for others to see.


    After a few days like this, one day she went to town to see Yang Ye and inquire about Zhan Jin¡¯s case.


    She brought over a y pot of Buddha Jumps Over the Wall this time, as Yang Ye was a person who really did hard work and deserved her making this dish in the kitchen.


    These days, Yang Ye had been checking the files of cases judged in Huai¡¯an County over the years. With the Dean of the College here, there hadn¡¯t been any major incidents in Huai¡¯an County over the years, just minor matters.


    The county magistrate didn¡¯t need to use the ¡°Daqi Law¡± for these small issues and solved them easily and light-heartedly.


    While the magistrate handled matters light-heartedly, this wasn¡¯t good for Yang Ye, who was nning to return to the Capital City, on to the Ministry of Punishments, and ask them for the case files.


    When he saw Qiao Xiaomaiing, he immediatelyughed, ¡°I was just about to send someone to call you.¡±


    He exined the reason he was leaving, and at the end, he asked, ¡°So, do you want toe to the Capital City with me to broaden your horizons?¡±


    ¡°The Capital City¡­¡± Qiao Xiaomai hesitated, and then shook her head, ¡°That won¡¯t work, I can¡¯t leave. I have to keep an eye on the progress of the manor at home, and the harvest season is starting soon. Plus, there¡¯s my mother, who seems to be adapting well right now, but¡­¡±


    ¡°Fine, fine.¡± Yang Ye interrupted her, ¡°I know you¡¯re the backbone of your family, no need to exin further.¡±


    Oops!¡±,¡±Qiao Xiaomai said, with an innocent look on her face. Wasn¡¯t she telling the truth?


    Yang Ye snorted, made the maid bring a bowl and spoon, and started eating the Buddha Jumps Over the Wall. While eating, he said, ¡°Zhan Jin has already been sentenced. He killed someone unintentionally while he was drunk. This is not considered intentional murder, so he wasn¡¯t sentenced to death, but to life imprisonment. He has been sent to the south to do hardbor.¡±


    ¡°The south?¡±


    ¡°They¡¯re building canals down south. There are many rivers andkes there. The Emperor hopes that we can divert some water to the north.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Qiao Xiaomai responded with a long ¡°Oh,¡± a version of south-to-north water diversion in ancient times. Emperor Yong¡¯an was truly a wise and capable ruler.


    ¡°What about Zhan Jin¡¯s son?¡± asked Qiao Xiaomai again. ¡°The wound on my mother¡¯s right arm was caused by him hitting her with a stick. He also coordinated with children from Linzhang Vige to throw stones at my mother, causing her to bleed from the head.¡±


    At first, she thought the hidden injuries on Zhuang L¨¹he were caused by Zhan Jin, but after careful questioning, she found out that some of them were caused by Zhan Jin¡¯s son.


    Such a vicious nature at such a young age, it would be dreadful when he grows up.


    Upon hearing this, Yang Ye was stunned, ¡°Was there really such a thing?¡±


    ¡°Indeed, I was furious when I heard about it.¡±


    ¡°I never knew about this before, we only arrested Zhan Jin. His son is currently being taken care of by Zhan Jin¡¯s old mother. But, if we really arrested him, how would we sentence him? He¡¯s only six years old.¡±

 Chapter 617: 617: I Also Want to Pick Up Mother

    Chapter 617: Chapter 617: I Also Want to Pick Up Mother


    ¡°Dad, don¡¯t cry, we¡¯ll bring mom back tomorrow!¡± Seeing Qiao Changshun cry, Qiao Xiaomai hurriedlyforted him.@@novelbin@@


    ¡°Dad, our lives are good now, and the future will be full of blessings.¡± Tong Sang alsoforted him.


    Qiao Changshun sniffed, covered his face with his hand, and limped back into the house.


    Even though life is now better, it doesn¡¯t erase the hardships of the past. How could he hold back his tears when thinking about Zhuang L¨¹he¡¯s past decade with him¡­


    It¡¯s his fault, all his fault!


    Qiao Changshun went into the house, and soon suppressed cries were heard. Qiao Xiaomai pursed her lips, thinking of Zhuang L¨¹he¡¯s trials in this life, a sour feeling arose in her nose, and tears began to well in her eyes.


    She bent down to pick up Qiao Dami, walked a few steps to the willow tree, and sat down on the bench.


    Qiao Dami hands clinging to her neck, asked softly, ¡°Sis, mom must have suffered a lot out there, right?¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai nodded heavily, ¡°When you grow up, you have to treat mom well.¡±


    ¡°I know, I always listen to mom.¡±<div>


    ¡°Good boy.¡± Qiao Xiaomai patted his little back.


    ¡°I want to go and get mom tomorrow too.¡± Qiao Dami spoke with a whiny tone, trying to act cute.


    ¡°It¡¯s too far away, even by ox cart it¡¯s half a day. We¡¯ll have to spend the night outside.¡± The road conditions between Beiyang County and Huai¡¯an County are not good, full of potholes, and the ox cart moves slowly.


    Of course, the main reason is that she doesn¡¯t want Qiao Dami to see the real situation.


    She didn¡¯t want those clear eyes to see too much sorrow.


    ¡°Then if you, dad, and Tong Brother are all gone, I¡¯ll be alone.¡± Qiao Dami pouted his little mouth, looking unhappy.


    ¡°Well¡­what about having grandpae to stay with you, how about that?¡± Qiao Xiaomai offered.


    ¡°No, I just want to go with you guys.¡± Qiao Dami twisted his small body like a twist bread stick, rolling nonstop in Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s arms.


    ¡°Why not just take him with us then, and not let him enter the vige when we get there.¡± Tong Sang suggested.


    Qiao Dami wasn¡¯t familiar with Qiao Qinghe either. If he was forced to stay with Qiao Qinghe, he would certainly be scared.


    After thinking for a bit, Qiao Xiaomai said, ¡°That could work.¡±


    Tong Brother is the best! Upon hearing Qiao Xiaomai agree, Qiao Dami began to giggle. He wriggled his way out of Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s embrace and ran over to hug Tong Sang¡¯s leg.


    Seeing this, Qiao Xiaomai was both amused and annoyed, ¡°You little ingrate.¡±


    Tong Sang chuckled, lifted Qiao Dami, pinched his chubby cheek, and changed the topic.


    He and Qiao Xiaomai discussed what to take for the trip tomorrow. Soon it was evening, and Qiao Xiaomai went into the kitchen to prepare dinner.


    Qiao Changshun¡¯s eyes were red and swollen, and he couldn¡¯t eat anything. He went straight to sleep.


    Qiao Xiaomai and Tong Sang took Qiao Dami home.


    The night passed without a word. The next day, before dawn, Qiao Xiaomai got up. She cooked ten scallion pancakes as travel food, and also filled a y pot with enough water for two days. Then, riding the ox cart, she went to find Qiao Changshun.


    Qiao Changshun¡¯s eyes were red and swollen, with red bloodshot in them. Clearly, he hadn¡¯t slept a wink all night.<div>


    Without saying much, Qiao Xiaomai waited for Qiao Zhaodi, Qiao Yindi, and the workers toe. She exined about their trip for the next two days, ¡°We¡¯ve found out where my mom is. She¡¯s working hard outside, and it hasn¡¯t been easy for her. Dad and I are going to bring her back.¡±


    She insisted that Zhuang L¨¹he¡¯s running away was because she couldn¡¯t stand the torment of the Sun Family and had to work outside to get away. Whether others believed it or not, or whatever they said behind her back, that¡¯s what she imed.

 Chapter 650: 650: You Will Be Immortalized For Generations

    Chapter 650: Chapter 650: You Will Be Immortalized For Generations


    ¡°And my mother, she has been oppressed so harshly by the Sun Family, and my father is indeed powerless. If she could seek a legal divorce, stand tall, and not have to endure the disdainful nces of others, I¡¯m sure she would be willing, right?¡±


    ¡°And my recipe ¨C I was the first one to think of it. If someone were to steal it, would I be able to use thew to recoup some of my losses?¡±


    ¡°Your Highness, I¡¯m just a simple country girl, I don¡¯t understand any grand principles. All I want is to have aw that can ensure justice when I¡¯m being bullied. I think most people share my sentiment.¡±


    ¡°So, if thew is well-revised, then you would¡¯ve provided an umbre of protection for ordinary folk like me, restoring fairness and justice to the world. Such a great achievement would certainly be renowned for centuries,¡±


    Yang Ye ¡°¡­¡±


    What a character, even throwing out phrases like ¡°renowned for centuries.¡±


    He sounded like a god¡­


    This touched his heart even more.


    Although Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s arguments were all centered around herself, they represented the voices of the grassroots.


    If there was aw for everything, then the plight of the grassroots would be much improved.<div>


    In that sense, thew is enacted to protect ordinary people¡­


    If themoners live well, then the Yang Family¡¯s reign would be secure.


    He was momentarily lost in thought before Yang Ye quickly refocused.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om


    ¡°Cut it out, don¡¯t put such a big hat on me,¡± he huffed, ¡°What else do you have in mind? Just spit it out.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m just a country girl, I don¡¯t have much on my mind¡­ It¡¯s just that the Sun Family once said that if my mother returned, they would sue her and make her suffer the pig-cage punishment. Are there any rules about that?¡±


    The Sun Family had made the threat off-handedly, but she had taken it to heart.


    Given how much Cen Hong coveted her family¡¯s house, it was possible he would make a big fuss using this issue. She needed to nip every possible problem in the bud.


    ¡°Thews of the previous dynasty addressed this; our dynasty has no regtions concerning eloped men and women.¡±


    ¡°Will there be any regtions on this in the future?¡±


    ¡°It depends. After I return, I¡¯ll have to discuss it with the court officials and ultimately leave it to the Emperor¡¯s judgment. But don¡¯t worry, I will make a point of this.¡±


    ¡°Thank you, Your Highness!¡± Qiao Xiaomai hastily expressed her gratitude.


    ¡°I don¡¯t care much for verbal thanks, think about something practical,¡± Yang Ye said as he continued to leisurely sip his soup.


    At his words, Qiao Xiaomai blinked her eyes.


    To be honest, she saw Yang Ye as a glutton who always wanted to eat fresh and unique dishes.


    But she had already expended all her ideas when the former Emperor was still alive. Now with Yang Ye demanding innovation, it added ayer of difficulty.


    She revealed an apologetic smile, ¡°Honestly, I haven¡¯t been focusing on developing new dishes recently¡­ Eh, my family¡¯s sweet potatoes and sesame are almost ready for harvest. How about I send you some when they¡¯re ready?¡±


    Yang Ye ¡°¡­¡±


    He rolled his eyes without regard for his image, ¡°Do you really think I¡¯m hungry for your sweet potatoes?¡±


    ¡°Just wait a little longer, okay? As soon as I have a new idea, I¡¯ll let you know right away.¡± Qiao Xiaomai was also unsure if her crops were as excellent as she¡¯d hoped, so she didn¡¯t want to overpromise.<div>


    Yang Ye listened to her words, a hint of dissatisfaction on his handsome face. However, he knew that it was not easy to force inspiration, even the Imperial Kitchen couldn¡¯te up with new recipes every day.

 Chapter 651: 652: Holding Back This Time

    Chapter 651: Chapter 652: Holding Back This Time


    Leaving the Academy, Qiao Xiaomai returned home with a cart full of stuff. Yang Ye was about to leave and didn¡¯t take away the gifts others gave him. Instead, he gave them all to her.


    Qiao Xiaomai tried to refuse, but he looked so grumpy as if he had swallowed a fly.


    Qiao Xiaomai had no choice but to ept.


    After a leisurely journey back to the vige, she led the cart straight to the Qiao Family home.


    The courtyard of the Qiao Family was already piled up, and she brought back another cart of things. Zhuang L¨¹he couldn¡¯t help but sigh.


    She really lucked out.


    She, a countrywoman, could enjoy bird¡¯s nest, such a precious delicacy, as daily food! What a life!


    Now the housework was taken care of by the sisters Qiao Zhaodi and Qiao Yindi. All Zhuang L¨¹he could do was cook and make clothes for Qiao Xiaomai. However, even so, Qiao Xiaomai didn¡¯t let her do too much, advising her to rest more.


    Since they returned, Zhuang L¨¹he wouldpse into daydreams from time to time. Were her days now just a dream?


    Qiao Xiaomai saw Zhuang L¨¹he lost in thought again. She called her several times and told her about Zhan Jin¡¯s punishment.<div>


    As for Zhan Jin¡¯s son, she would remember this.


    Zhuang L¨¹he heard this and made a few nomittal noises without saying anything. She silently unloaded the things from the cart and put them in the house.


    Seeing this, Qiao Xiaomai didn¡¯t bother her. She called out before turning around to find Tong Sang in the old courtyard.


    Tong Sang was studying diligently. Qiao Xiaomai took out two white and red peaches from her space. Each was as big as a melon. She ced them in front of Tong Sang, ¡°Take a break.¡±


    Tong Sangplied and picked up a peach. It was very soft and could be eaten straight after peeling. While eating, he asked about Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s experience and learned that Yang Ye was returning to Beijing. He made an indifferent sound, ¡°We should send him some dried sweet potatoes.¡±


    ¡°We don¡¯t know about the quality of the sweet potatoes yet.¡±


    ¡°After being watered with your Spiritual Spring water, they definitely won¡¯t be bad.¡± Tong Sang was very confident.


    The vegetables in the Qiao Family¡¯s vegetable garden tasted great. This was undoubtedly due to Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s Spiritual Spring water.


    Qiao Xiaomai smiled and poked his cheek, ¡°You have to work in the field again tomorrow, don¡¯t you?¡±


    ¡°Yes, I need to water the sweet potatoes.¡±


    ¡°Should I hire someone? Your exam ising up. It¡¯s a waste of time to do physical work.¡±


    ¡°No need. It¡¯s good to get some exercise. It¡¯s not good to sit at a study desk all day.¡± Besides, if they hired someone, they definitely couldn¡¯t just do their work. Otherwise, Tong Xingda would surely make a fuss. Better to avoid unnecessary trouble.


    His father was originally okay, but after the drastic change, he turned into a child, speaking without thinking and acting ording to his whims without consideration for anything else.


    Sigh¡­


    How tiring.


    The next day, after eating, Tong Sang walked to the new house.


    At noon, he returned to the Qiao Family for lunch. He finished the whole day¡¯s work in the morning and continued to study in the afternoon.


    However, at lunch, he shared some troubling news: Zhu Hongyun had returned.


    Tong Eng was kept on a tight leash by Tong Tiehu, and due to the Zhang Family¡¯s many household chores, he never found time to look for Zhu Hongyun.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om<div>


    A month had passed quickly. This was the limit of Tong Eng¡¯s patience. He sneaked away to Zhu Vige when Tong Tiehu wasn¡¯t looking.


    Zhu Hongyun was a bit anxious when Tong Eng didn¡¯te. After all, she had done something wrong with the Braised Pork incident.


    But she soon calmed down: she was pregnant.


    After two or three years of marriage, she finally got pregnant.<div>


    Pregnancy was a life-saving straw. Even grave mistakes could be forgiven now.


    Besides, her mistake wasn¡¯t a grave one. It was just a recipe for Braised Pork and fifty taels of silver. That was a minor matter.

 Chapter 652: 651 Zhu Hongyun Returns

    Chapter 652: Chapter 651 Zhu Hongyun Returns


    Moreover, taking advantage of her pregnancy, she had taught her family the recipe for Braised Pork. Now her family had opened a small restaurant in their vige, specializing in Braised Pork, selling a scoop for five copper coins.


    Apart from Braised Pork, she also taught her family the recipe for malt sugar. Although malt sugar doesn¡¯t earn much, selling it along with Braised Pork minimally earns them around twenty copper coins a day or even up to seventy or eighty coins on better days.


    This kind of ie is absolutely considered good in rural areas.


    Zhu Family¡¯s vige is not far from Bailu Town, hence, the living standard in the vige is decent. The price, which couldn¡¯t be considered cheap nor expensive, was within the vigers¡¯ eptance. The Braised Pork, devised from Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s recipe, was fragrant and tender. Devouring it provided a thorough satisfaction, thus it sold well.


    These were all rted by Tong Eng. He had seen them with his own eyes. Zhu Hongyun forbade him to tell others, but he was not good at hiding things. Moreover, as this involved his family¡¯s business and Qiao Xiaomai, hence after much thought, he spilled the beans.


    Upon knowing this, Zhu Hongyun was certainly chastened, but nothing could be done to her. She was now pregnant with the future great-grandson of the Tong Family and Eng¡¯s first child, obviously they couldn¡¯t expel her like before.


    Additionally, with Tong Eng¡¯s constant pleas, the issue was eventually closed with Tong Tiehu venting his spleen.


    ¡°However, Grandpa said, he would remember what Er Sao (Second sister-inw) had done and deal with it after she gives birth.¡± Tong Sang said.


    Qiao Xiaomai, ¡°¡­How will they deal with it? Since they can¡¯t do anything while she¡¯s pregnant, will they have a n after she gives birth?¡±


    ¡°Hmm¡­ probably they will make her work harder on the farm?¡± Tong Sang himself was unsure.<div>


    On hearing this, Qiao Xiaomai rolled her eyes. She wasn¡¯t happy with the punishment.


    ¡°How about I go to Zhu Family¡¯s vige to destroy their kitchen and warn her family not to make Braised Pork anymore?¡±


    ¡°Enough with your nonsense.¡± Qiao Xiaomai red at him.


    Tong Sang gave a conciliatory smile and passed a dish to her, ¡°Then don¡¯t be angry anymore, don¡¯t engage with her in future, and this time¡­¡±n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om


    ¡°This time, consider it as being bitten by a dog.¡± Qiao Xiaomai snorted, ¡°I can¡¯t bite back when I¡¯m bitten by a dog.¡±


    ¡°But let me make it clear now. This time I let it slide for your sake. But if she dares to cross me again, don¡¯t me me for not being considerate.¡± Qiao Xiaomai jabbed the table with her chopsticks, her little face showing a cold demeanor.


    ¡°Alright alright, no need for consideration. In front of you, I have no dignity. When the timees, confront her as you wish.¡± Tong Sang quickly agreed.


    ¡°Huh?¡± Qiao Xiaomai nced at him suspiciously.


    ¡°Obviously, I¡¯ll stand by your side, rest assured. I¡¯ll absolutely charge to the front lines for you, protecting you from harm.¡± Tong Sang quickly added.


    Qiao Xiaomai snorted, but her cold expression receded.


    Qiao Changsun hesitated for a moment, then said, ¡°Xiaomai, let it go. It¡¯s just a recipe for Braised Pork after all.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Qiao Xiaomai let out a soft ¡®hmph¡¯, ¡°Even if it¡¯s just a single copper coin, if I don¡¯t wish to give it, then I¡¯ll make an issue about it.¡±


    She¡¯sfortable giving any amount to her own people.


    But for the likes of Zhu Hongyun, even a single coin was too much.


    ¡°What¡¯s owed, I¡¯ve given. I gave 1600 taels of silver and the recipes to both sisters-inw, and even to Sang¡¯s mother. I¡¯ve done right by this family.¡±


    ¡°In the future, if anyonees to cause trouble again, I won¡¯t hesitate to hit back.¡±


    These words were a bit harsh. ¡°This family¡± seemed to indicate she did not consider herself a part of the Tong family.


    Qiao Changsun looked at Tong Sang with some concern, who gave a bitter smile in return.


    What could he say?<div>


    It was his family who acted improperly in the first ce. They surely couldn¡¯t expect Qiao Xiaomai to continuously turn the other cheek.


    Zhu Hongyun¡¯s actions indeed, were excessively unreasonable.

 Chapter 653: Running Out of Money

    Chapter 653: Chapter 653: Running Out of Money


    Qiao Xiaomai made such a statement, but she couldn¡¯t help but grow angrier nheless.


    Tong Sang suggested that he could really go and smash the kitchen at Zhu Hongyun¡¯s parent¡¯s house to let off some steam.


    After some thought, Qiao Xiaomai didn¡¯t let him act so rashly.


    The vige examination was nearing, and there was a ny percent chance that Tong Sang might be recognised as a schr. How could they allow a future schr to demean himself with such actions?


    Patience.


    Not only did Qiao Xiaomai endure, but so did the Tong Family.


    The Mother Tong could basically do some activities now, but she had no choice but to hold in her anger towards Qiao Xiaomai, who hadn¡¯t spent a single day nursing her in sickness.


    Tong Sang was clearly her son-inw, but it seemed more like he had married into the Qiao Family instead, this too she had to bear.


    Zhu Hongyun was also tolerating, she was pregnant now, which served as a symbol of protection, but she didn¡¯t exploit this status for anything else.


    Then there was Tong Xingda, who got chastised by Qiao Xiaomai without retaliating.


    All because the vige examination for Tong Sang was imminent.


    Bing a schr was a big deal for ordinary folks, this concerned the fate of the Tong Family. They would not at all allow any insignificant squabbles to affect Tong Sang¡¯s performance.


    Not only was the Tong Family enduring, but so was the Sun Family.


    The incident with Hua Xiaofeng which left her utterly defeated and unable to care for herself was not yet settled.


    Upon learning of Zhuang Luhe¡¯s return, she was even more upset.


    But she remembered what Yang Ye had said to Cen Hongpingst time, Sun Junyan was merely a civilian for the time being; to really aplish something, he needed a higher status than an ordinary civilian. They needed to wait until he became a schr, only then would his actions be justified.


    Thus, a group who could kick off at any moment, they all reined in their temperaments in light of the vige examination.


    Qiao Xiaomai spent half a month quietly without any worries.


    One day, she once again took a cart to supervise progress on the Manor.


    The construction team led by Miao Dali was verypetent, and the mainpound was already built. It was simr to the two courtyards of the past, the outer and inner residences are separated by a flower-draped door. She and Tong Sang would live in the inner residence, while her sisters Qiao Zhaodi and Qiao Yindi would live in the outer one.


    As per Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s ns, a small courtyard was to be built on the left of the mainpound for Qiao Changshun, Zhuang L¨¹he, and Qiao Dami to live in.


    On the right side of thepound, arge warehouse was nned for storing grains harvested.


    In front of thepound, a spacious threshing ground was to be built for drying crops on ordinary days.


    Previously, she had Miao Dali fence off an area of twenty acres, she was nning to build another guest house within this space, simr to the elegant courtyards in the Bailu Academy.


    If the water from the Spiritual Spring really worked, then Yang Ye would surelye. She would have to prepare a ce for him to stay.


    With arge warehouse to store grains, they would also need a smaller warehouse to store farm tools and seeds. There would also be a need for a cowshed, chicken coop, sheepfold, and pigpen.


    n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om


    A kitchen is also necessary, it must be spacious and well-built, with excellent venttion in summer and instion in winter.


    Additionally, a pond is also necessary, where she nned to cultivate lotus, raise fish, snails, and loach.


    Looking at the design and calcting the cost, she couldn¡¯t help but sigh.


    The pressure was somewhat great.


    While they had earned a lot before, they also spent a lot. Being someone who rarely kept ounts and enjoyed spending freely, she hadn¡¯t made much money during these two months. Adding to this was the 1600 taels of silver she gave to Tong Xingda, now she only had a little over a thousand taels left in her space.


    It is uncertain whether this would be enough once the manor is fully built.


    The 5000 taels given by Tong Sang were intended as a token of their engagement. She didn¡¯t want to touch it unless absolutely necessary.


    She needed to find ways to make more money.

 Chapter 622: 622: Her Karma in This Life

    Chapter 622: Chapter 622: Her Karma in This Life


    So at this moment, there was nothing Tong Sang could do but counsel Zhuang L¨¹he, assuring her that she was not to me, neither for Qiao Xiaomai nor for Qiao Dami.


    She was indeed in the wrong, but her mistakes were surely not fatal.


    Zhuang L¨¹he listened nkly to Tong Sang¡¯s words. Tears welled up and spilled over from her vacant, hollow eyes with a force aspelling as a dam bursting.


    Despite her tears, she managed to force a twisted smile, ¡°Has everything at home really improved that much?¡±


    ¡°Yes, everything is better now, Mother. After we¡¯ve return home, we can live a good life.¡± Tong Sang nodded earnestly.


    ¡°Did Xiaomai cook for the Retired Emperor?¡± Zhuang L¨¹he asked again.


    ¡°Yes, some time ago the Retired Emperor graced Bailu Town with his presence. Xiaomai became his Royal Chef. She made a good impression on the Retired Emperor. This is an honor that many other families can only dream of throughout generations.¡±


    After listening to this, Zhuang L¨¹he remained silent for a while, then muttered, ¡°Her culinary skills¡­¡±


    ¡°Her culinary skills have strenghtened by leaps and bounds! The Retired Emperor likes it very much!¡± Tong Sang added, emphasizing each word.


    ¡°When did you marry her?¡± Zhuang L¨¹he asked again.<div>


    ¡°Half a month ago.¡±@@novelbin@@


    ¡°That¡¯s good, very good¡­¡± As Zhuang L¨¹he spoke, tears flowed freely from her eyes like loose pearls, falling in long trails. ¡°Then I should be dead. I can¡¯t face her.¡±


    Indeed, she could not face Qiao Xiaomai.


    Her abrupt departure had left Xiaomai in a precarious situation.


    At the age of fifteen, Xiaomai was faced with the choice of marrying someone like Jiang Zhuangzhuang, a rich and clueless man or being sold off.


    Moving away, knowing full well of the fate that awaited Xiaomai was something which Zhuang L¨¹he had done, with just a few dozen coppers left to their name.


    Knowing what she had done, how could she ever face Qiao Xiaomai?


    Even if it meant selling herself, she should not have left.


    But leave, she did¡­


    After leaving, she did not manage to achieve the peace she yearned for.


    Bai San did not tell her that Zhan Jin was blind in one eye and was prone to violence. After joining him, the household chores and field work that was required of her was heavier than it was at the Qiao household, and she was filled with concern for the three people she left behind at the Qiao¡¯s.


    Adding on Zhan Jin¡¯s brutality, she lived like she was in hell.


    This was her retribution.


    The instant punishment for abandoning her husband and children was unbearably harsh.


    She had long thought of dying.


    The ill-will of this world towards her was too extreme.


    Her biological mother died when she was young, leaving her to grow up under the torment of her stepmother. Marrying was supposed to be a fresh new life, yet she ended up choosing Qiao Changsun. She was able to escape from Hua Xiaofeng, only to be grasped firmly in the hand of the Sun Family.


    Although Hua Xiaofeng harbored a hint of affection for her, she never beat her despite subjecting her to all sorts of heavybor.


    The Sun Family, in contrast, beat her to the brink of death multiple times and often stormed her home like bandits for loot.<div>


    Each day that passed was darker than thest.


    Finally, there was a glimmer of hope. Qiao Changsun was rewarded with fifty taels of silver because he did not keep the gold coin he found. This time, she was able to confidently stand up to the Sun Family and did not hand all of it over.


    Despite the ruthless beating from the Sun Family, she held on to her hopeful anticipation for the future as she built the new house and purchased new items for their home.


    After decades of hardship, life finally seemed to be changing.<div>


    She did not seek wealth or luxury; a life free of worries about basic necessities would have satisfied her.


    But what was the reality? The house was barely built when Qiao Changsun broke a leg. All the new items in the house were sold off one after another to buy medicine for him.


    In the end, even their means of survival, theirnd, had to be sold.


    This was retribution, a punishment for the unfilial act of not handing over the silver to the Sun Family.


    Her karma always seemed to confront her sooner than it did for others.


    It was as if the gods were always watching, leaving no room for the slightest improvement in her fortune.

 Chapter 623: 623: You let them see your corpse?

    Chapter 623: Chapter 623: You let them see your corpse?


    Following Bai San was herst ditch effort.


    It was her defiance against the cruel fate.


    She gambled her destiny.


    But how could she ever stand against the heavens, she lost.


    Three times she defied fate in her life. Marrying, receiving fifty taels of silver, and then eloping.


    All three times, she lostpletely.


    The heavens did not want her to live¡­


    If it weren¡¯t for her thoughts on Qiao Xiaomai and Qiao Dami, she would have killed herself long ago.


    Now, Qiao Xiaomai and Qiao Dami have found her, and Xiaomai has achieved such incredible sess¡­ she even married the best young man in all the surrounding viges.


    With such happiness and fulfillment, she, their mother and bearer of such bad luck and nasty reputation, should die even more.<div>


    Her existence was just a stain on Qiao Xiaomai and Qiao Dami.


    Her final destination was Hell.


    ¡°Please, let me die¡­ I really do not want to live¡­¡± She looked at Tong Sang, pleading in her eyes and her voice shaking, ¡°Just im that I died in an ident while working somewhere else, let me die, let me die¡­¡±


    ¡°How can I face Xiaomai and Dami with this appearance¡­¡±


    The clothes she was wearing were the old ones of Zhan Jin. The clothes she brought had been snatched away by Zhan Jin¡¯s mother. She was filthy, neither human nor ghost, this appearance of hers would only scare the two children.


    ¡°Sang, I really can¡¯t bear to live anymore, please grant me this wish¡­¡± Zhuang Luhe wept as she pleaded.


    Tong Sang looked at her, his fist clenched tightly, his eyes filled with a mist, ¡°Mother, believe in Xiaomai, she can handle this. In her heart, you will always be her mother.¡±


    ¡°If the Suns can live openly, then what reason do you have to die? Xiaomai and Dami have traveled a day by ox cart to get here, not to see your corpse, they came to take you home.¡±


    ¡°Even if you¡¯ve made mistakes, you don¡¯t deserve to die!¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t understand, you don¡¯t understand¡­¡± Zhuang Luhe covered her face with her skeletal hands, tears streaming through the gaps, leaving Tong Sang¡¯s heart in even more difort.


    ¡°I understand everything, you¡¯re worried about tarnishing Xiaomai¡¯s reputation, aren¡¯t you? No one will dare to gossip about her.¡±


    ¡°If Xiaomai and Dami really mind, they wouldn¡¯te here in the first ce.¡±


    ¡°Besides, are you live for those gossipers? Why should you care about the perceptions of people who are irrelevant?¡±@@novelbin@@


    ¡°The Suns have already been driven out of the vige, now our family is the top-notch household in Anping Vige. Every day we have no less than ten asional as many as dozens of people working in our house, every day we pay hundreds of coins. Don¡¯t you yearn for such a life?¡±


    ¡°Exactly, Luhe, rest assured, no one dares gossip, you can return with me.¡± Qiao Changshun also spoke up, hugging Zhuang Luhe andforting her, ¡°We don¡¯t mind, nobody in our family minds. Don¡¯t overthink.¡±


    ¡°Mother, no matter what, you must give it a try.¡± Tong Sang spoke again.


    ¡°No, I have no face to see them, please, do me this favour, let me die¡­¡± Zhuang Luhe¡¯s body shook as she cried, her voice imbued with such despair that would drown anyone.


    She was truly determined to die.


    Tong Sang furrowed his eyebrows at this, his mind whirring rapidly. He tucked his lips, changing his tactic, ¡°Mother, you always say you¡¯re thinking for the good of Xiaomai and Dami, but how are you doing that? You are willing to let them witness your death?¡±<div>


    ¡°They haven¡¯t seen you for half a year, and as soon as there was word about you, they hurried here on an ox cart. They brought huge hopes with them, and you were going to present your corpse to them?¡±


    ¡°Have you thought about the psychological trauma this would inflict on them?!¡±

 Chapter 624: 624: Do You Hate Them This Much?

    Chapter 624: Chapter 624: Do You Hate Them This Much?


    ¡°For something they do not even begrudge, you cannot ovee. Moreover, you wish to perform an act that could haunt them for a lifetime, is this how you¡¯re a mother?!¡±


    ¡°You¡¯ve already failed them once, and now you want to affect them in such a way for the rest of their lives.¡±


    ¡°You want to use your dead body to extinguish their joy, just how much do you despise them to punish them in such a way?!¡±


    You want to use your dead body to extinguish their joy, just how much do you despise them to punish them in such a way!@@novelbin@@


    After these words, Zhuang L¨¹he¡¯s crying abruptly ceased.


    Her body trembled slightly, the hands covering her face lowered, and she looked up at Tong Sang, shaking her head and denying loudly, ¡°I didn¡¯t!¡±


    ¡°You did! You want tomit suicide, did you ever consider their feelings?!¡± Tong Sang¡¯s handsome face was gloomy, and a burning anger in his dark eyes, mitting suicide now, means you despise them. You want to use this shadow to harm them for a lifetime!¡±


    As for Qiao Xiaomai, it is not to say, the original host¡¯s heart had been reced by another person.


    But Qiao Dami wasn¡¯t, he didn¡¯t know the truth, he always believed in Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s words, his face wore a smile all day today, the bumpy journey in the hot weather did not affect his good mood at all.


    He was genuinely happy to wee Zhuang L¨¹he home.<div>


    If at this moment he saw Zhuang L¨¹he¡¯s body, how great would the shadow in his little heart be?


    Tong Sang¡¯s words were indeed out of anger, but they also made sense.


    And his usations were severe enough to make Zhuang L¨¹he immediately flustered, she instinctively grabbed Qiao Changshun¡¯s clothes, and her deathly pale face revealed a look of horror, ¡°I didn¡¯t, I didn¡¯t¡­¡±


    How could she possibly hate the two children, she felt guilty towards them, ah, mostly because she wanted to die for them!


    Tong Sang looked at her, he sighed deeply, then softened his tone, ¡°Mother, if you really consider Xiaomai and Dami, then you should follow dad home. Xiaomai and I are already married, only dad and Dami are left at home. Dad can¡¯t be without you, Dami is only seven years old, he really can¡¯t be without you.¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s no hurdle that can¡¯t be crossed, the hardships of the past were for the good days we have now. The hardship is over, from now on, it¡¯ll be all good days.¡±


    ¡°Exactly, Luhe, Dami and I can¡¯t live without you, Dami is only seven years old!¡± Qiao Changshun also said through his tears and sniffles.


    Zhuang L¨¹he remained silent, but the tears in her eyes didn¡¯t stop. The expression on her face wasplex, guilt, grief, confusion, fear and various other emotions intertwined, she stood there without moving.


    ¡± Mother, let¡¯s go.¡± Tong Sang walked over, gesturing for Qiao Changshun to let go of Zhuang L¨¹he.


    Qiao Changshun did as he was told, he held Zhuang L¨¹he¡¯s arm and began to walk towards the door, ¡°the sky is getting dark, let¡¯s go.¡±


    Zhuang L¨¹he was like a puppet without consciousness, she numbly followed him towards the door.


    The door was already surrounded by more than ten vigers of Linzhang Vige, themotion just now was too big, they had surrounded the ox-cart, and not only these, there were even more vigers approaching from afar.


    Tong Sang red at them one by one then spoke firmly, ¡°Make way!¡±


    The vigers faced his fierce gaze and involuntarily stepped back. But there were also some who gathered the courage to say, ¡°She¡¯s Jinzi¡¯s wife brought with his money, what right do you have to take her away?!¡±

 Chapter 625: 625: Striking Someone

    Chapter 625: Chapter 625: Striking Someone


    On what grounds do they take her away?


    Tong Sang curled his lips, a cold smile forming on his handsome face, ¡°On the grounds that trafficking in persons is illegal, if you don¡¯t believe it, try stopping me.¡±


    They hadn¡¯t seen how he had brutally dealt with Zhan Jin earlier.


    At his arrogant words, two strong, young men who seemed to be in their twenties, tall and gangly, stepped out of the onlooking crowd.


    ¡°If you want to take her, you¡¯ll have to get past us first!¡± one of them boldly dered.


    Seeing this, Tong Sang¡¯s cold smile deepened, ¡°It seems necessary to report this to the County Town authorities, let the County Magistrate investigate your vige.¡±


    Zhuang Luhe was bought, and human trafficking is a crime, yet they were trying to stop him even after his derations.


    They were covering up for Zhan Jin¡¯s previous act of murder as well.


    Birds of a feather, indeed.


    The customs of these vigers are truly vile.<div>


    Upon hearing Tong Sang bring up the County Magistrate, their faces showed clear fear and they retreated a few steps, yet they still circled the ox cart, refusing to disperse.


    At that moment, a loud cursing voice echoed from afar, ¡°Which blind scoundrel dares to cause trouble in my home!¡±


    Tong Sang looked in the direction of the voice to see a haggard woman in her fifties rushing over, cursing as she ran, brandishing a thick wooden stick in her hand.


    Zhuang Luhe stilled as she recognized her voice.


    Seeing this, Tong Sang¡¯s eyes narrowed, he let go of Zhuang Luhe, disappearing like a ghost, then suddenly appearing before the old woman, his leg kicking her over, just like he had done with Zhan Jin.


    Without losing a beat, he returned to the entrance of Zhan Jin¡¯s home, swept his leg across the crowd surrounding the ox-cart, kicking them all away, including the two young men who were about to stop him.


    These people posed no threat to him.


    He had no patience to waste time on them, and after quickly resolving the situation, he moved to assist Zhuang Luhe onto the ox-cart, saying, ¡°Let¡¯s go, mother.¡±


    Zhuang Luhe seemed dazed for a moment, but with his prompting, she stiffly climbed onto the cart.


    Qiao Changshun followed closely behind them and quickly got onto the cart as well.


    Tong Sang sat in front, preparing to turn the cart around and return by the same path.


    ¡°Wait, go forward, there¡¯s a stream ahead, where I can wash my face.¡± Zhuang Luhe spoke.


    She looked so hideous at the moment¡­


    Tong Sang thought for a moment and drove the ox-cart forward.


    ¡°Mother, Xiaomai brought a new set of clothes for you, I¡¯ll fetch them for you in a bit.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Qiao Changshun looked surprised, ¡°When did she bring the clothes, and why didn¡¯t I notice?¡±


    ¡°She hid them under the cushion; you were preupied during the journey and didn¡¯t notice,¡± replied Tong Sang.


    ¡°Oh¡­I see.¡± Qiao Changshun nodded, epting this exnation.


    The cushion on the ox-cart was made of hemp and stuffed with wheat stalks for shock absorption. If a set of clothes was pressed under the cushion, it wouldn¡¯t be noticeable.<div>


    The whole journey his mind was filled with concerns about Zhuang Luhe, he had no attention to spare for anything else.


    The vige was small, so they soon arrived at the stream.


    Just as she said, it was a narrow stream, only a meter wide. Zhuang Luhe jumped down from the cart and crouched by the water to wash her face, as Qiao Changshun stood nearby, watching her.


    Using his martial arts skill, Tong Sang quickly returned to the edge of the vige.<div>


    ¡°Huh? Howe you¡¯vee back alone?¡± Qiao Xiaomai was surprised.@@novelbin@@


    ¡°It¡¯s a long story, I¡¯ll tell youter. Where are the clothes you brought for our mother? Give them to me. She¡¯s washing her face by a stream near the vige.¡± Tong Sang reached out his hand towards Qiao Xiaomai.

 Chapter 658: Participating in the Rural Examination

    Chapter 658: Chapter 658: Participating in the Rural Examination


    Thus, the days passed as Qiao Xiaomai spent them selling edamame, and before long, the provincial examination finally arrived.


    At this time, all the students from Bailu Academy who needed to take the provincial examination, apart from those from Huai¡¯an County, had left. The examination site was at the Prefectural Government Office in County Town, overseen by the County Magistrate himself.


    Tong Sang was to participate in the provincial examination, a matter of great importance. Tong Tiehu, Tong Xingda, and the Zhang Family all expressed their willingness to apany Tong Sang to County Town for the examination, but Tong Sang turned them all down.


    He only needed Qiao Xiaomai to apany him.


    Upon hearing this, Tong Tiehu said nothing, only nodded in understanding. However, Tong Xingda and the Zhang Family were gnashing their teeth in anger.


    Their dear son had been led away by Qiao Xiaomai into the Qiao Family.


    If they didn¡¯t do something soon to win him back, Tong Sang was likely to truly be a member of the Qiao Family!


    Rage building up in them, they knew they had to hold it in. For now, everything could wait until after Tong Sanng finished the provincial examination.


    As the examination was approaching, Qiao Xiaomai felt something akin to a parent sending their child off to the college entrance examination. She woke up before dawn and personally fried a pot full of Fried Dough Sticks, boiling two eggs as well.


    The examination papers here didn¡¯t use a percentage system, but she was still somewhat superstitious, sending Tong Sang off with blessings, following a custom from an alternate timeline.


    Tong Sang didn¡¯t say anything, quietly consuming all the Fried Dough Sticks and eggs.


    After the simple breakfast, Qiao Xiaomai took Tong Sang on an ox cart and set off for County Town.


    It took over an hour to travel from their vige to County Town. They left when it was still dark, and after a shaky journey, they arrived at the gates of the County Government Office, which was crowded with people.


    The ce was packed with families sending off their kin to the examination.


    n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    Because of the presence of Bailu Academy, the academic atmosphere in Huai¡¯an County was strong, leading to a considerable number of students participating in the provincial examination. Everything in the County Government Office except the County Magistrate¡¯s seat had been moved away, reced with neatly arranged desks.


    Even the backyard of the County Government Office was filled with tables.


    The provincial examination was not as strict as the metropolitan or pce examinations; there were no separatepartments, and if any of the examinees finished early, they were allowed to submit their answers before the day was up.


    Qiao Xiaomai believed in Tong Sang¡¯s ability, but she still prepared a lunch box for him.


    ¡°Go, I¡¯ll wait for you here.¡± Qiao Xiaomai parked the ox cart at a corner of the street and patted Tong Sang¡¯s back, ¡°It¡¯s all up to today after the ten years of rigorous study; it¡¯s your time to shine!¡±


    Carrying his lunchbox, Tong Sang disembarked from the ox cart. He cracked a smile, his eyes brightening, reflecting Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s image, ¡°Watch me.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai looked at him, her arms raised above her head, making the shape of a heart with her fingers, ¡°Young man, your journey is to the stars and the sea!¡±


    This was the first time she had ever made this gesture. The words somehow excited him, and Tong Sang raised his eyebrows in surprise, before the smile on his handsome face broadened, ¡°Wait for the good news!¡±


    He wanted to make the same heart-shaped gesture in return, but his hands were busy carrying the lunchbox, and he didn¡¯t believe it was decent for a grown man to do so in public, hmmm¡­


    He¡¯d do it back at home after the exam!


    With the lunch box in hand, Tong Sang walked towards the entrance of the County Government Office.


    The officials were examining the candidates in line, checking to see if they had any cheat sheets in their lunch boxes or on their bodies. Qiao Xiaomai sat in the ox cart holding her umbre, watching this scene and silently started praying to all the gods and buddhas she could think of.


    Regardless of which god or buddha it was, as long as she could remember them at this time, she recited their names one by one.


    Tong Sang¡¯s attempt could only result in sess; failure was not an option.


    After finishing her silent prayers and seeing Tong Sang enter, she was just about to guide the ox cart to a shady spot when the corner of her eye caught sight of a few familiar figures.


    It was Sun Junyan, members of the Sun Family and Qiao Meipan.


    Sun Junyan was also taking the provincial examination. Sung Family and Qiao Meipan were there to send him off. However, Qiao Qinghe was nowhere to be seen.


    Qiao Qinghe was unable to ovee his inner struggles; therefore, he did not show up this time around.


    [His journey is one to the stars and the sea]

 Chapter 627: 627: Afraid to Face Qiao Xiaomai

    Chapter 627: Chapter 627: Afraid to Face Qiao Xiaomai


    After a separation of six months, mother and son were reunited, both teary-eyed.


    Upon seeing Zhuang Luhe¡¯s current state, Qiao Xiaomai felt a knot in her throat and also began shedding tears.


    The woman in front of her was a far cry from the beauty in her memories. What hardships Zhuang Luhe had to endure over these past six months¡­


    ¡°Stop crying, let¡¯s eat,¡± Tong Sang said, lighting up the firewood he had gathered earlier.


    Qiao Xiaomai sniffled, pulling out the scallion pancakes she had cooked, along with the steamed buns she bought at noon, then she poured a bowl of water for Zhuang Luhe.


    Scallion pancakes, steamed buns.


    Zhuang Luhe couldn¡¯t recall how long it had been since shest ate white flour. Now she was looking at these rare delicacies, her yet-to-stop tears were now flowing even more violently.


    ¡°Stop crying mother, it¡¯s bad for your eyes, and your rouge is all smeared from the tears,¡± Qiao Xiaomai said, pulling out a handkerchief tofort her.@@novelbin@@


    Zhuang Luhe dared not look at her, responding with a few sobs and nodded, stuffing a steamed bun into her mouth.


    Qiao Xiaomai then reached out to wipe the tears from her eyes.<div>


    Zhuang Luhe hung her head even lower.


    Qiao Dami was okay, but Qiao Xiaomai, being a woman herself, understood the difficulties of being a woman. When she left, she hadn¡¯t considered the situation Xiaomai would face¡­


    Seeing this, Qiao Xiaomai felt somewhat helpless.


    She originally feared Zhuang Luhe would discover her recement of the corncob, seeing Zhuang Luhe now, it seemed that she should be the oneforting her.


    With Qiao Dami present, she couldn¡¯t ask Tong Sang for the full story, so she could only call both Tong Sang and Qiao Changshun to eat.


    They needed to travel at night and arrive in Huai¡¯an County before daybreak.


    Once everyone had finished their hasty dinner, Tong Sang extinguished the firewood, and then Qiao Xiaomai brought out thentern she had bought in Huai¡¯an County for lighting.


    Night traveling required antern.


    Thenterns from ancient times were pasted with paper, and even with twonterns, the lighting was still insufficient. Coupled with poor road conditions, the ox cart moved extremely slowly.


    Qiao Dami, settled in Zhuang Luhe¡¯s arms, fell asleep quickly, while the four adults remained wide awake.


    Qiao Xiaomai drove the ox cart and talked to Zhuang Luhe about the changes at home over the past half year, starting from the recipe for cold jelly noodles to the present.


    She spoke for an hour, her throat bing parched. After she finished, she had to stop the ox cart to drink some water from the pottery jar.


    Zhuang Luhe was dumbfounded the entire time.


    Whether it was Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s household¡¯s rapid rise in status or the Tong family¡¯s identity, to her, they all seemed like wild fantasies.


    Her family¡¯s savings had always hovered around dozens of wen, so the concept of owning five hundred acres of farnd and thousands of taels of silver was simply beyond her grasp.


    Not to mention the appearances of real nobles, the retired Emperor, the Prince of Wei, the Prince of Duan, figures that existed only in dramas, had actually shown up in her home.


    And then there was Tong Sang¡¯s family.


    She was previously puzzled as to how Tong Sang could marry Qiao Xiaomai given their family¡¯s circumstances, but now it seemed that the Tong family was of significant status but had had their property seized.


    Moreover, the reason Qiao Xiaomai agreed to the marriage was to repay a life-saving favour¡­<div>


    All these events were too mind-boggling.


    Completely beyond her imagination.


    ¡°Mother, anyway, our family is living a very good life now. You do not need to worry at all. Father¡¯s happiest time each day is to sit in the courtyard in the evening to pay the workers. He can enjoy being a richndlord whenever he wants.¡±


    ¡°Once you¡¯re back, you can do those duties. You can also enjoy the pleasure of being a richndy.¡±<div>


    Upon hearing this, Zhuang Luhe quickly shook her head, ¡°I can¡¯t, I can¡¯t.¡±


    Even though Qiao Xiaomai insisted that she had gone out to work, she knew in the hearts of others it was clear.


    She did not want to face the peculiar looks from those people.

 Chapter 659: 659: Youre talking nonsense!

    Chapter 659: Chapter 659: You¡¯re talking nonsense!


    However, looking at the interaction between Sun Junyan, the Sun family, and Qiao Meipan, it was almost the same whether Qiao Qinghe showed up or not. The Sun family and Qiao Meipan had already given Sun Junyan enough blessings and concern, so much so that Sun Junyan was starting to show annoyance.


    The incessant chatter was like the buzzing of flies in his ears, it was too noisy!


    Seeing Sun Junyan¡¯s annoyed expression, the Sun family straightened his wrinkled clothes and fell silent.


    Qiao Meipan stopped speaking too. The mother-daughter duo watched Sun Junyan line up, heading into the backyard of the County Government Office.


    When he was no longer visible, the mother and daughter didn¡¯t leave. They nned to wait directly at the gate of the County Government Office.


    However, as the schrs were going to take the exam in the Main Hall, people had to clear the outside of the government office. After all the schrs had gone in, the officials started to disperse the crowd, fearing that the presence of their rtives might affect their performance.


    The Sun family and Qiao Meipan had to leave. On their way, they ran right into Qiao Xiaomai, who was sitting atop a cow-cart.


    Qiao Xiaomai had driven the cow-cart to the shade of a ck Locust tree. She was leisurely fanning herself with a reed fan. She was wearing a white cheongsam with golden wheat embroidery on its hem. The material was silky smooth, making it both lovely to look at and of high quality.


    With her simple bun of ck hair and her beautiful face, she stood out among the crowd.


    The simplicity of the open cow-cart or therge reed fan didn¡¯t diminish her allure. Just her casual sitting there looked like a pretty picture.<div>


    However, the picture, pleasing to others, was a sight for sore eyes for the mother and daughter.


    They had yet to avenge the Sun family being beaten to the point of being incapacitated. Qiao Meipan was also blinded by jealousy over Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s beauty. After not seeing her for a few days, Qiao Xiaomai appeared even more attractive!


    ¡°Who died this time that she¡¯s still in mourning clothes all day!¡± the Sun family said, and spat on the ground forcefully. ¡°Unlucky!¡±


    Qiao Meipan added fuel to the fire, ¡°Exactly! If she wants to unt herself, she should go home! She¡¯s seducing men on the busy street right after getting married. How many cuckolds is she making of Tong Sang!¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai¡±¡­¡±


    Her hand that was waving the reed fan paused for a moment. These two psychos¡­


    A light mockery tugged at the corner of her lips as she nced at the Sun family, ¡°Who could I be mourning for other than you? Even though we¡¯ve severed our rtions, our blood ties are still there. If you die, I wouldn¡¯t mind mourning over you.¡±


    After saying this, her gaze shifted to Qiao Meipan who was dressed in silk, wearing silver hairpins, and holding a fan. Her smile widened, ¡°Oh, who¡¯s this girl who pulled down men¡¯s pants in front of the vigers? It¡¯s the unwed girl who can¡¯t find a husband even after offering herself! You must really covet this face of mine, don¡¯t you?¡±


    ¡°You!¡±n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om


    With just a few words from Qiao Xiaomai, the mother-daughter pair was seething with anger.


    Especially Qiao Meipan. She was already sixteen and yet unmarried, which was her constant worry. Now that Qiao Xiaomai had rubbed salt into her wound, she couldn¡¯t wait to scratch Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s face.


    ¡°Damn it! You shameless fox, do you know anything besides attracting men!¡±


    ¡°At least I¡¯m better than you, getting on in years and still hasn¡¯t won over a single man,¡± Qiao Xiaomai bantered back, her tone light and yful.


    Getting on in years, and still hasn¡¯t won over a single man.


    Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s briefment pointed out two painful truths, each one a deep wound to Qiao Meipan.


    Qiao Meipan¡¯s face turned from livid to pale. Without a second thought, she clenched the round fan in her hand and lunged at Qiao Xiaomai, ¡°You¡¯re talking nonsense!¡±

 Chapter 629: 629: She Can Handle It

    Chapter 629: Chapter 629: She Can Handle It


    When Qiao Dami said this, Zhuang L¨¹he was stunned.


    Pocket, pocket money?


    Now, Qiao Xiaomai is the one providing pocket money ¡­


    ¡°My pocket money is also given by Xiaomai.¡± Tong Sang said, ¡°Mother, our family¡¯s conditions have really improved, you can rest assured to take it.¡±


    Zhuang L¨¹he upon hearing this, became lost in thought.


    What¡¯s going on, even Tong Sang falls under Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s management now?


    She quickly recalled the Tong Family¡¯s confiscation and gave Tong Sang aplex look.


    This youngster, who she dared not think of previously, unexpectedly now ¡­


    But based on his looks, he genuinely feels good about Qiao Xiaomai.


    She pressed her lips together and stopped resisting.<div>


    Then Qiao Xiaomai continued shopping, and two carts were quickly piled up with goods. They then all headed towards Anping Vige.


    The nearer the home, the more timid one bes. So Zhuang L¨¹he couldn¡¯t help but hold Qiao Dami tighter, ¡°Should ¡­ Should I stay at the manor first?¡±


    She found herself without courage to face the vigers.


    ¡°It¡¯s not convenient there. Although the house is built, there¡¯s nothing else there. Besides, it¡¯s noisy often during the day, it cannot fit anyone for living.¡± Qiao Xiaomai exined.


    Zhuang L¨¹he tightly hugged Qiao Dami without saying a word.


    Her breathing turned shallow, her body was stiff.


    ¡°Don¡¯t be afraid. It¡¯s past noon now, there¡¯s hardly anyone in the vige.¡± Qiao Changshunforted her.


    It was a hot day, and nobody was out in the scorching sun. Everyone was either at home resting or working in the fields, there was practically nobody on the streets.


    Zhuang L¨¹heughed awkwardly and remained silent.


    Qiao Dami, her small arm around her neck, reassured her loudly, ¡°Mother, don¡¯t be afraid, the Sun Family must be hiding somewhere now. They don¡¯t dare to show up.¡±


    He thought Zhuang L¨¹he was afraid of the Sun Family.


    Zhuang L¨¹he responded by petting his little head and softly humming in agreement.


    The oxcart arrived at Anping Vige quickly, just as Qiao Changshun said. The streets werepletely empty. From the vige entrance to their home, they did not meet a single person.


    When they arrived at their house, Qiao Xiaomai told the oxcart to stop, she jumped off to open the courtyard gate.


    Qiao Dami also hopped down from the cart excitedly, he ran inside the house calls out, ¡°Mother,e and see sister¡¯s dowry!¡±


    The items that Yang Ye presented, if they could be moved inside, were ced in the house; otherwise they were piled up in the courtyard, the whole courtyard was filled.


    Zhuang L¨¹he looked up at the familiar small courtyard, took a deep breath, and mustered the courage to get off the oxcart.


    The small courtyard was still the same, the difference was that everything sold previously had been reced. There were chicks in the chicken coop, lush vegetables in the vegetable garden, and the shed and the whole courtyard were filled to the brim.


    These things were all part of the dowry gifted to her daughter Qiao Xiaomai by the royal characters from the ys¡­<div>


    Zhuang L¨¹he¡¯s lips trembled, her emotions were a mix of everything.@@novelbin@@


    Will she, as a mother, affect Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s rtionship with those important figures?


    Once she steps into this courtyard, would she bring bad luck to the people inside¡­


    ¡°Mother,e in.¡± Qiao Xiaomai who had opened the gate and started unloading the carts, seeing Zhuang L¨¹he frozen at the gate, urged her.<div>


    ¡°I, I won¡¯t bring bad luck to you, will I?¡± Zhuang L¨¹he asked with a pale face.


    Upon hearing this, Qiao Xiaomai burst intoughter, ¡°Mother, don¡¯t worry,e in. No matter what kind of evil spirits there are, I can suppress them.¡±


    As for fate, she had never bowed down to it.


    For Zhuang L¨¹he, this less intelligent woman with poor judgement, she could take care of her.

 Chapter 661: 661: You Actually Turned in Your Paper Ahead of Time!

    Chapter 661: Chapter 661: You Actually Turned in Your Paper Ahead of Time!


    ¡°How did it go? How did it go?¡± Qiao Xiaomai asked, one question tumbling over the other.


    Tong Sang put his lunchbox on the ox cart and grinned, ¡°Dean Gu was supervising the examination. He was standing next to me the whole time. I handed in my papers to him after finishing. From his facial expression, he seemed to be quite satisfied.¡±


    ¡°Did he mark the papers then?¡±


    ¡°Yes, he takes care of all the exams in Huai¡¯an County. He picks the top ten, then sends them to the Capital City for the emperor¡¯s review. If the emperor finds no problem, the Imperial List can be issued.¡±


    ¡°No need to seal the exam papers?¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s no need to in Huai¡¯an County. The emperor trusts Dean Gu very much.¡±n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om


    ¡°How wonderful,¡± Qiao Xiaomai remarked somewhat wistfully.


    Encountering Dean Gu was a stroke of luck indeed for the people of Bailu Town!


    ¡°Indeed, once the results are out, we should send some of our sweet potatoes to his house.¡± Tong Sang got on the cart, ¡°Let¡¯s get moving and find a ce to eat.¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s just go home,¡± Qiao Xiaomai suggested.<div>


    She finished the water in the bowl and then poured a bowl for Tong Sang. ¡°Take a drink.¡±


    Tong Sang downed the water in one gulp, flicked the whip in his hand, and the ox cart began to move.


    ¡°Did you sit the exam in the Main Hall or in the backyard?¡± Qiao Xiaomai started her barrage of questions.


    ¡°The backyard. There was a canvas covering the sun, but it was still hot underneath.¡±


    ¡°Did you see Sun Junyan?¡±


    ¡°I did. I even shot him a nce before I left. Judging by his expression, he seemed to be doing well in his exams.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai scoffed, ¡°With his constant scheming and wheeling and dealing, he actually managed to do well?¡±


    ¡°Who knows,¡± Tong Sang mused.


    Clearly, Sun Junyan¡¯s focus was no longer on studying. He¡¯s been thinking every day about how to hitch his wagon to a rising star. Surprisingly, he appeared to do well in the exam, demonstrating confidence and quick writing speed. Could they have misjudged him before?


    ¡°Hmm¡­ Maybe he is really smart? Or he just crammed at thest minute?¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai clicked her tongue in dissatisfaction.


    If a trash like Sun Junyan manages to pass the exam and bes a schr, it would certainly be a huge threat to society. Such a deeply calcting individual, if gaining a prestigious title or authority, would undoubtedly bring harm to society.


    ¡°Forget him, we can¡¯t control this,¡± Tong Sang changed the topic, ¡°In half a month, we¡¯ll wait for the notice.¡±


    ¡°Now that the exam is over, we shouldn¡¯t think about it anymore. Let¡¯s go home and get ready for the autumn harvest!¡± Tong Sang stretched and yawnedzily.


    Qiao Xiaomai holds high hopes for him. He has been diligently studying at his desk these past few days. At least he can rx a bit before the results are posted in half a month.


    ¡°Time to harvest the sweet potatoes!¡± Qiao Xiaomai smoothly changed the topic.


    She had already figured out what to do with those well-grown sweet potatoes.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go!¡± Tong Sang flicking his whip, the smile on his handsome face was broad and genuine, his ck eyes sparkling with brightness.


    On their return to the vige, they first paid a visit to the Tong Family.<div>


    Since Tong Sang¡¯s surname is Tong, naturally he should visit the Tong Family first and inform Tong Tiehu about the day¡¯s events.


    Qiao Xiaomai also apanied him. Ever since the families separated, this was her first time visiting the Tong¡¯s new house.


    The Tong¡¯s new house was just as it used to be. Because of Tong Sang¡¯s exam, everyone had stayed at home waiting for the news instead of going out to work.


    After Tong Sang described what happened, Zhu Hongyun immediately responded, ¡°You handed in your papers early? Sang, aren¡¯t you being too childish? The ones who have been studying in Bailu Academy for years diligently write their answers. Did you finish early because you didn¡¯t know how to answer?¡±<div>


    Upon hearing this, Zhang from the Zhang Family nodded worriedly, ¡°Exactly, Sang, did you finish it too quickly because you didn¡¯t understand the questions and thought they were simple?¡±

 Chapter 662: 662: Go Ahead and Accuse Me at the County Government Office

    Chapter 662: Chapter 662: Go Ahead and use Me at the County Government Office


    There are two reasons why one might feel a sense of satisfaction after an examination: one is that they performed well, while the other is that they did not fully understand the questions and wrote a whole page of answers based on their own interpretation ¡ª feeling self-satisfied even though they had strayed far off the mark.


    Neither Zhang family¡¯s matriarch nor Zhu Hongyun knew about Deng Chun. They had believed that Tong Sang had studied on his own all these years, so at this point, they were immediately worried after hearing his words.


    However, as soon as they finished speaking, Tong Xingda immediately spat with a disgusted look on his face and scolded, ¡°Both of you have the worst premonitions! Shut up! No one thinks you¡¯re mute when you don¡¯t speak. Disaster mas!¡±


    ¡°Why would that be a bad omen? Sang is self-taught, we have no idea how good he really is!¡± Zhang¡¯s matriarch righteously refuted.


    ¡°Everyone shut up. The exam is over. Whatever will be, will be. We just need to wait for the results now.¡± Tong Tiehu spoke emotionlessly, ¡°That¡¯s settled. You can all disperse now.¡±


    ¡°Then Xiaomai and I will go back.¡± Tong Sang stood up to leave.


    ¡°Go ahead.¡± Tong Tiehu waved his hands dismissively, ¡°You¡¯ve had it hard these days from studying, take a good rest.¡±


    Tong Sang acknowledged the words.


    The Tong family had nted their sweet potatoes rtivelyte, they were still not mature, so there wasn¡¯t much work to do around the house at the moment.


    ¡°Hold on.¡± Tong Xingda spoke. He called out Tong Sang and Qiao Xiaomai.<div>


    ¡°What¡¯s the matter?¡± Tong Sang stopped in his tracks.


    ¡°Given that you¡¯vepleted the provincial examination, it¡¯s time to settle some old scores. You surely wouldn¡¯t have forgotten the incident, when your wife embarrassed me thest time?¡± Tong Xingda asked, his face registering distaste, as though he had swallowed a fly. It had been several days since the incident, but each time he thought of Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s cold face and provocative words, he still felt an urge to stomp his foot in frustration.


    Tong Sang stood mute, his face a nk.


    With an unchanged expression, Qiao Xiaomai asked, ¡°So how do you want to settle it, father?¡±


    ¡°I ask you, I am your father-inw. Is it too much to ask you to cook a meal?¡± Tong Xingda showed no signs of raving, instead he was prudently lecturing Qiao Xiaomai.


    ¡°No, it¡¯s not too much.¡± Qiao Xiaomai shook her head, ¡°But I don¡¯t want to cook. If you consider this disrespectful, then you can sue me at the county government office.¡±n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om


    Dropping this statement, Qiao Xiaomai turned around and walked away.


    ¡°You!¡± Tong Xingda,pletely caught off guard by Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s insolence, managed to repress his anger which then exploded violently, ¡°Do you really think there is nothing I can do about you?!¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai disregarded him and continued walking without hesitation.


    Tong Xingda stamped his foot and strode after Qiao Xiaomai, with every intention of taking matters into his own hands. ¡°This is outrageous, absolutely outrageous! Like I have married a tyrant! I ought to teach you a lesson about filial piety and family rules!¡±


    Seeing this, Tong Sang sighed, rubbed his forehead, and stepped in to intercept his advancing father, ¡°Father, can you let me live peacefully for a few days?¡±


    Tong Xingda raised his hand to push him aside and loudly chastised, ¡°So she is right to disrespect me? As her father-inw, does she even have the right attitude? All I wanted was a taste of her cooking, and she dares to humiliate me like this!¡±


    Tong Xingda was about to explode in anger. He felt he had done nothing wrong to Qiao Xiaomai. He did not spread baseless rumors like Zhang¡¯s matriarch, nor did he sell Braised Pork recipes behind her back like Zhu Hongyun.


    After he visited the restaurant that served the scrapings ofrd mixed with rice, Qiao Xiaomai and Tong Sang even agreed that he could drop by for food anytime he wanted.


    At this moment, all he did was reminded her of their agreement, and yet Qiao Xiaomai abruptly turned hostile, refuting him at every turn. Now, she even dared to openly insult him.


    What does she think she is?!

 Chapter 632: 632: Is this how you thank me?

    Chapter 632: Chapter 632: Is this how you thank me?


    Upon hearing this, Qiao Xiaomai smiled bashfully, ¡°Actually, I have another request¡­¡±


    At this Yang Ye voiced surprise, ¡°What is it?¡±


    The Dean of the Valley also turned his gaze toward Qiao Xiaomai.


    Qiao Xiaomai moistened her lips, and said, ¡°My mother¡­ has been found, but the man who abused her earlier, has stained his hands with the life of his previous daughter-inw. Thus, I hope that Your Highness can help, and have the Count of Beiyang County, hand out the deserved punishment to that man.¡±


    ¡°I originally wanted to report this, but my usation as a civilian will carry less weight than yours, so I came to you.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Yang Ye nodded his head indicating that he understood, ¡°Alright, I will send someone there.¡±


    Although he, as a leisure prince, has no right to interfere with local governance, in this case, it was Zhan Jin whomitted the first murder. Sending a person to report does not amount to interfering with local governance.


    ¡°Thank you, Your Highness!¡± Qiao Xiaomai eximed joyously, quickly expressing her gratitude.


    Upon hearing her words, Yang Ye lifted a wine jar and poured a bowl, nting his eyes at her, ¡°Is that all, a simple word of thanks?¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai blinked her eyes, hesitated momentarily, and then said, ¡°I haven¡¯t been experimenting with any new dishestely.¡±<div>


    ¡°Sozy, you¡¯ve bezy ever since getting married.¡± Yang Ye tutted twice, savoring the wine in his bowl, his eyes still nted at her.


    His eyes bore an emotion that suggested he had more to say yet did not.


    Qiao Xiaomai felt somewhat clueless under his gaze, thought a bit, and then said, ¡°Your Highness, it¡¯s not only that man, but also that vige, human trafficking is illegal, but all the people of that vige were shielding that man.¡±@@novelbin@@


    ¡°Your Highness, since you are revising the ¡°Daqi Laws¡±, I would like to make a suggestion based on my personal experience. Those who shelter criminals should also be punished.¡±


    ¡°We mustn¡¯t let thew be ineffective because of the sheer number of people condoning the act. I think, we should increase their taxes by 20 percent as a form of punishment.¡±


    Yang Ye, ¡°¡­So, your thanks just entail saying ¡®thank you¡¯ and giving a suggestion?¡±


    ¡°Then shall I propose one more?¡±


    Yang Ye, ¡°¡­¡±


    He hummed, ¡°Speak.¡±


    ¡°Not just the human traffickers should be sentenced to be dismembered, the buyers should also face the same punishment.¡±


    ¡°In addition, men who physically assault their wives without reason should also face the same penalty.¡± Qiao Xiaomai suggested further.


    She was not aiming this at anyone in particr, this was simply what she believed, all these men who physically assault their wives without reason, are nothing but beasts.


    Even in the future world, women still upy a disadvantaged position in society, let alone in this ce where their rights should be strengthened.


    In the past, her despicable father used to beat her mother, an incident she would never forget.


    Last night after hearing from Tong Sanlong that he had witnessed Zhuang L¨¹he being violently abused by Zhan Jin, her disgust for men who abuse their wives deepened further.


    Unfortunately, currently the ¡°Daqi Laws¡± have no provisions regarding this matter.


    Upon hearing these words, Yang Ye frowned, ¡°Capital punishment?¡±


    Dismemberment was a brutal form of punishment involving the severing of limbs before cutting the throat. Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s intentions were clear; she wanted the buyers and domestically abusive men all killed.


    ¡°Domestically abusive men do not need such punishment.¡± Knowing her thoughts were somewhat radical, Qiao Xiaomai continued, ¡°However, what about the buyers? Without demand, there can be no supply, the existence of buyers is the root of human trafficking. If there were no people buying, would anyone engage in this? So many families have been torn apart, is it not enough to warrant capital punishment?¡± Qiao Xiaomai retorted.<div>


    Do we really need to gauge the punishment for these animals?


    No, simply decapitating them would suffice.


    ¡°This¡­¡± Yang Ye turned his gaze toward the Dean of the Valley.


    The Dean of the Valley stroked his beard and began, ¡°Currently, ¡®Daqi Laws¡¯ are extremely severe toward human trafficking, capital punishment for buyers¡­ Bailu Town has arge poption, but other ces don¡¯t have that many people.¡±<div>

 Chapter 664: 664: At Worst We Can Split Up

    Chapter 664: Chapter 664: At Worst We Can Split Up


    Staring down Tong Xingda¡¯s burning gaze, Tong Sang spoke expressionlessly, ¡°Since you all have your reason, and feel wronged and taken advantage of, then go to the County Town and file aint. The county magistrate will give you justice.¡±N?v(el)B\\jnn


    The moment Tong Sang¡¯s words fell, Tong Xingda¡¯s foot shot out, kicking towards his face, clearly indicating that he had already exposed the fraudulence of the marriage to Qiao Xiaomai!


    Marriage deception!


    Qiao Xiaomai had the support of Prince Wei, no wonder she could be so fearless and audacious!


    His father¡¯s palm swung at him, but Tong Sang stepped back just in time to avoid it, his expression unchanged as he looked at Tong Xingda, ¡°Dad, since both you and mom feel aggrieved, then go ahead and file theint. I support your decision.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m going to kick your ass, you little bastard, watch me beat you to death!¡±


    Tong Sang¡¯s words were like pouring oil on the fire for Tong Xingda. He had already unveiled the truth of the marriage deception to Qiao Xiaomai, why the hell would he still file aint.


    When Qiao Xiaomai revealed the truth, he would be the one unable to find a way out!


    Taking advantage of him and deliberately infuriating him, he deserved to die!


    ¡°Enough, stop it!¡± Hearing Tong Xingda¡¯s curse, Tong Tiehu couldn¡¯t help but darken his face. Tong Sang¡¯s grandfather was him, and Tong Xingda had included him in his insults.<div>


    ¡°Sang, put your father in his room!¡± Hemanded with a stern look.


    Such irrational behavior!


    Upon hearing this, Tong Sang immediately moved. He turned into a gust of wind, grabbed Tong Xingda¡¯s shoulder, and disappeared from the courtyard in an instant.


    He locked Tong Xingda in his room.


    Of course, Tong Xingda didn¡¯t give in, his vituperative shouting was so piercing that it threatened to prate people¡¯s eardrums. Tong Tiehu¡¯s face tightened, and he said, ¡°Sang, you and Xiaomai should go home first.¡±


    ¡°I think we should take Dad to town anyway, and have a thorough discussion with the county magistrate,¡± Qiao Xiaomai was still standing at the door, not moving.


    ¡°Today is the rural examination, the county magistrate doesn¡¯t have time to deal with such trivial matters.¡±


    ¡°Then, tomorrow. Since both Dad and Mom feel wronged, let the county magistrate give them justice,¡± Qiao Xiaomai insisted with a in face. ¡°I¡¯ve paid off the debt of gratitude. We¡¯re even. All I want is a peaceful married life. If it¡¯s not peaceful, don¡¯t me me for seeking a divorce.¡±


    Divorce!


    As soon as this word was thrown out, everyone present in the courtyard turned pale.


    Especially Zhang Family and Zhu Hongyun. A woman, after being married and bing second-hand goods, dared to initiate a divorce. It was truly shocking!


    Tong Tiehu deeply inhaled. It seemed Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s tolerance for his family had really reached its limit.


    No wonder. She wasn¡¯t from here, it was impossible to confine her with local thinking.


    Tong Sang pursed his lips but stayed silent. He walked over to Qiao Xiaomai, grabbed her arm, and left the courtyard.


    Qiao Xiaomai shook off his hand indifferently, ¡°What¡¯s with your long face?¡±


    She lowered her eyes and climbed on the ox cart.


    Upon seeing this, Tong Sang¡¯s lips receded into a thin line. He walked over, grabbed the cart reins, and silently guided the cart towards the old courtyard.


    The two were silent on the way. When they arrived at the old courtyard and Tong Sang closed the gate, his first words were, ¡°I hope that no matter what happens in the future, you won¡¯t mention the word ¡®divorce¡¯.¡±


    His expression and tone were filled with uncontroble distress.<div>


    ¡°I thought long and hard about marrying you so we could be happy together for a long time.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai was scooping water from the bucket to wash her hands. On hearing his words, she paused for a moment, then continued to scoop water into the wooden basin, replying, ¡°Hmm.¡±


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 634: 634: Why Yang Ye Doesnt Get Married

    Chapter 634: Chapter 634: Why Yang Ye Doesn¡¯t Get Married


    ¡°Prince, thank you for joking. What would you like to eat?¡± Qiao Xiaomai asked with a sweet smile on her face.


    ¡°I want plenty of fish and meat,¡± Yang Ye made his request.


    Qiao Xiaomai nodded. After all, with the help of Spiritual Spring water, even if she aterge amounts of fish and meat, she wouldn¡¯t feel sick.


    ¡°I want some new dishes,¡± Yang Ye added.


    At these words, Qiao Xiaomai tilted her head slightly. New dishes?


    What could she make¡­


    ¡°Go on, go on, although it¡¯s still early, you should prepare as soon as possible,¡± Seeing her like this, Yang Ye felt slightly moved in his heart. He then showed a restless look and waved his hand to hint at Qiao Xiaomai to get going.


    Seeing this, Qiao Xiaomai was confused by Yang Ye¡¯s capricious behavior.


    She hurriedly took her leave.@@novelbin@@


    Though her rtionship with Yang Ye could be considered good now, after all, Yang Ye was a prince. His mood swings were not something she could deal with. Better to avoid them.<div>


    Qiao Xiaomai followed Yang Ye¡¯s maid back to Yang Ye¡¯s courtyard. Seeing her figure departing, the old steward lifted his hand to stroke his beard, then said, ¡°Your Highness, you¡¯re already twenty-two, it¡¯s time to get married.¡±


    At these words, Yang Ye¡¯s handsome face darkened immediately, ¡°I haven¡¯t met a suitable one yet.¡±


    The elderly steward just chuckled and changed the subject.


    Yang Ye¡¯s marriage matter was ratherplicated.


    Firstly, because of Bai Zhi. Bai Zhi, for the sake of Yang Ye, would rather hate life and dread death. If Yang Ye were to marry, Bai Zhi would certainlymit suicide.


    The former king of Daqi, also Bai Zhi¡¯s grandfather, being the only king of a different surname in the country, had fought alongside the previous emperor to establish the kingdom. If his little granddaughter were tomit suicide because of Yang Ye, it wouldn¡¯t be a good situation.


    Fortunately, Yang Ye hadn¡¯t met anyone he liked so far, so he remained single.


    The second reason was due to Crown Prince Yang Hao.


    Yang Hao was already thirty-two this year, having held the title of crown prince for over ten years. His son, Yang Zheng, was now thirteen and was a clever and quick-witted young boy.


    Under these circumstances, although Crown Prince Yang Hao¡¯s position was still stable, his situation was somewhat awkward.


    Emperor Yong¡¯an is in excellent health, being Emperor for another twenty years wouldn¡¯t be a problem. By then, Yang Hao would be fifty, and Yang Zheng would be in his thirties. Hence, it was not impossible for Emperor Yong¡¯an to directly pass the throne down to Yang Zheng.


    Therefore, the current situation was somewhatplicated.


    Due to these unspoken rtionships in the royal family, Yang Ye had been acting like a foodie, appearing uninterested in anything else, so as to avoid suspicion.


    If Yang Ye also held real power and married a nobledy from a prestigious aristocratic family, appearing ambitious and prosperous, it would undoubtedly make Yang Hao more ufortable.


    Thus, for these two reasons, Yang Ye¡¯s marriage had been dyed.


    As an outsider, the steward couldn¡¯t say much more.


    Even if there was an undeniable hint of ambiguity in the way Yang Ye looked at Qiao Xiaomai, all he could do was slightly indicate it. He couldn¡¯t say anything more.


    Once she was in the kitchen, Qiao Xiaomai started thinking about new dishes while preparing others. Speaking of what¡¯s new, it definitely wouldn¡¯t be considered new if she simply stewed or stir-fried two things together. It has to be novel.


    Actually, she really wanted to make the pork fat rice she madest time again. However, if she dared to use that to fob off Yang Ye, he would certainly be furious.<div>


    After thinking for a while, she saw some glutinous rice flour in the kitchen. She actually thought of an idea: rice noodle rolls.


    As far as she knew, there was no such dish here. Since it didn¡¯t exist, then she was innovating!


    Once she thought of this, she started excitedly making the rice noodle rolls. The morning tea from a certain ce in the future was famous all over the country with its wide variety of dishes. She had specifically researched it, and she could basically create all those varieties.


    <div>

 Chapter 635: 635: Fallen Sick

    Chapter 635: Chapter 635: Fallen Sick


    At the dining table, Yang Ye noticed the Rice Noodle Rolls, eyebrows arched in interest. They were indeed new to him.


    The semi-transparent wrap of the Rice Noodle Rolls enfolded shrimp, apanied by the sauce mixed by Qiao Xiaomai, tasted quite delectable.


    Consistently high standard as always.


    Yang Ye nced at Qiao Xiaomai while leisurely finishing the entire serving of Rice Noodle Rolls. Wiping the corner of his mouth with a handkerchief, he said, ¡°Teach my chef this recipe.¡±@@novelbin@@


    ¡°Sure,¡± Qiao Xiaomai agreed.


    ¡°How much for it?¡± Yang Ye asked.


    Qiao Xiaomai widened her eyes and quickly said, ¡°No need, this is an appreciation for your generosity.¡±


    ¡°You still owe me ten thousand taels of silver,¡± Yang Ye reminded.


    ¡°The Prince didn¡¯t specify a deadline, I¡¯ll be able to pay it off within three years,¡± she assured.


    ¡°So confident?¡±<div>


    ¡°My cooking skills are good,¡± Qiao Xiaomai replied with a modest smile.


    At her words, Yang Ye huffed, ¡°So, what else are you nning to cook?¡±


    ¡°I haven¡¯t had any inspiration just yet. My mom just came back and my mind is too muddled to concentrate,¡± Qiao Xiaomai replied honestly.


    Yang Ye clicked his tongue, ¡°Then you should take some tonics back with you for her. I have too many stored here and no desire to consume them.¡±


    ¡°Thank you, Prince, but I bought some yesterday,¡± she declined.


    ¡°What you bought is yours, and what I gift is mine, take it.¡± Yang Ye¡¯s tone suddenly sharpened.


    Qiao Xiaomai, ¡°¡­ Okay.¡±


    Has Yang Ye got his period?


    His mood is rising so rapidly.


    Under such circumstances, Qiao Xiaomai naturally did not want to stay any longer. After lunch, she taught Yang Ye¡¯s chef how to make Rice Noodle Rolls. Later, she excused herself on the pretext of worrying about Zhuang L¨¹he.


    Without a good reason, she didn¡¯t want to visit Yang Ye again anytime soon.


    She would wait until Yang Ye¡¯s irritable mood passed.


    Qiao Xiaomai returned home with a cartload of tonics. When she reached home, she saw that the gate was open. She jumped down from the cart, grabbed the harness, and led the cart into the Courtyard.


    Tong Sang was seated under a tree, brush in hand, teaching Qiao Dami how to write.


    Seeing Qiao Xiaomai return, he said, ¡°Back so soon, how did it go?¡±


    ¡°The Prince has sent people to handle the matter, where¡¯s mom?¡±


    ¡°In bed,¡± Tong Sang paused before he added, ¡°After you left, she had been asleep. Dad felt something was off, so he took her temperature, and brought Dr. Wu over. The doctor said her body is deficient and has internal injuries.¡±


    ¡°What?!¡± Qiao Xiaomai eximed.


    ¡°Her left leg and right arm had fractures before, and because they were not treated well there are nowplications,¡± Tong Sang said, his tone choked. He patted Qiao Dami¡¯s back, stood up, and said, ¡°Come inside and see for yourself. Dad is with her.¡±<div>


    Qiao Xiaomai immediately rushed into the house.


    Inside the room, Zhuang L¨¹he was lying in bed, her cheeks flushed, lips cracked, herplexion was terrible.


    Qiao Changshun was seated by her side, there was a basin filled with water on the floor, he was washing a cloth in it.


    Seeing Qiao Xiaomaiing in, he said, ¡°You¡¯re back.¡±<div>


    ¡°How is mom?¡± Qiao Xiaomai nearly choked up, asking carefully.


    ¡°She took her medicine. Dr. Wu asked me to put a cold cloth on her forehead, her fever shoulde down by tonight,¡± Qiao Changshun informed.


    ¡°What about the injuries on her leg and arm?¡± Qiao Xiaomai asked again.


    ¡°They need rest. Fortunately, our home situation has improved, so she doesn¡¯t need to do any hard work,¡± Qiao Changshun sighed.


    Why does she have to suffer so much¡­.


    Qiao Xiaomai pressed her lips together and pulled Tong Sang out of the room. ¡°You, quietly go to Linzhang Vige and cripple one of Zhan Jin¡¯s legs or arms,¡± she told him.

 Chapter 671: 671: Increase Production

    Chapter 671: Chapter 671: Increase Production


    Thinking of this, Shopkeeper He quickly sent out Yuan Ding, asking him to go to Anping Vige to inform Qiao Xiaomai that the sweet potato bars were selling very well and they could continue making them.


    Fan Jia¡¯s situation was an exception, but recently, there have been schrs who have returned to their hometown to take part in the imperial examination, and these schrs could also consider these sweet potato bars as a special product of Bailu Town and take them home for a taste.


    Anyway, as Qiao Xiaomai had said, this product was specifically for the wealthy, with clear pricing and fair transactions, so there was no question of deception or conscience concerns.


    When Qiao Xiaomai and Tong Sang returned home and were continuing to wash sweet potatoes, Yuan Ding arrived.


    As soon as he mentioned what had happened with Fan Jia, Qiao Xiaomai immediately let him take away the fifty catties left from the morning.


    She had originally nned to take these fifty catties to the Qiao Family for their consumption, but considering how well the sales were going, it made more sense to give more to Shopkeeper He for expanding the market, and her family¡¯s consumption could be postponed.


    After Yuan Ding left, Qiao Xiaomai asked Tong Sang to use his light body skills to call Zhuang L¨¹he, Qiao Zhaodi, and Qiao Yindi over. She nned to have Zhuang L¨¹he and the two sisters help with washing and steaming the sweet potatoes.


    The location was just in the old courtyard of the Tong Family, which was too small.


    ¡°I think we should move it to the manor over there.¡± Tong Sang suggested.


    All the sweet potatoes were now stored in therge warehouse, and a fence had been built around the warehouse, with arge t area in front of it for drying grains.<div>


    Setting up a stove near therge warehouse for steaming sweet potatoes day and night, followed by drying them, would definitely be more efficient than doing this in the courtyards of the Qiao Family and Tong Family.@@novelbin@@


    A well had already been dug near the manor, making it an ideal ce to dry sweet potatoes.


    Besides, it didn¡¯t matter if others saw how the dried sweet potatoes were made, after all, no one else had such delicious sweet potatoes.


    After some thought, Qiao Xiaomai nodded in agreement.


    So, Qiao Xiaomai drove the ox cart to the manor with the help of Miao Dali, who had found two people to build the stove, while Tong Sang went to the mountain to cut the willow branches. The dried sweet potato bars needed woodens woven from willow sticks, so he needed to cut more.


    After giving instructions to Miao Dali, Qiao Xiaomai again drove the ox-cart back to the vige to transport all the branches cut by Tong Sang to the manor. Miao Dali led the engineering team there. People who came to work were also there. The group of people worked together and quickly made severalrge woodens.


    Since Miao Dali¡¯s engineering team had tents stationed nearby to guard the construction tools and also keep watch on the crops in the fields, Qiao Xiaomai and Tong Sang felt relieved to go home to sleep at night.


    The next day, both of them went to the Qiao Family¡¯s house for breakfast.


    After breakfast, Qiao Xiaomai, Tong Sang, Qiao Dami, Qiao Changsun, Qiao Zhaodi, Qiao Yindi, and even Zhuang L¨¹he, who hadn¡¯t left the house since she returned, all rode the ox cart towards the manor.


    Once they arrived, Tong Sang was in charge of fetching water, Zhuang L¨¹he, Qiao Zhaodi, and Qiao Yindi were in charge of washing the sweet potatoes, Qiao Xiaomai and Qiao Dami were responsible for steaming the sweet potatoes, and Qiao Changsun continued tomand those who came to work to harvest the soybeans and sesame seeds.


    The group was busy all day, and by the end, the ground in front of the warehouse waspletely covered with sweet potato bars.


    After everyone else went home, Qiao Xiaomai and Tong Sang slept in therge warehouse.


    The weather was still hot, so they could manage anyhow at night.


    With abundant sunshine, the dried sweet potatoes were ready in two days. After this batch was done, Qiao Xiaomai found clean hemp bags and packed them all into these bags. She and Tong Sang each drove an ox cart to the town to sell, while the rest continued to make dried sweet potatoes.


    ¡°Oh, you two are finally here.¡± Seeing the two of them, Shopkeeper Heughed like Maitreya Buddha and weed them.


    Qiao Xiaomai folded the umbre she had been holding overhead and then picked up a cattail fan to fan herself, ¡°Yes, Shopkeeper, we have made a thousand catties this time.¡±


    ¡°Excellent, excellent.¡± Shopkeeper He immediately hailed several assistants to move the sweet potato bars to the backyard.

 Chapter 675: The Color of Mouse Droppings

    Chapter 675: Chapter 675: The Color of Mouse Droppings


    At this time, Qiao Xiaomai had finished reading the contents of the letter, her mouth twitching with suppressedughter.


    Yang Ye¡¯s letter was very short, only three sentences:


    @@novelbin@@


    ¡°Tastes good, but why does it look so ugly?¡±


    ¡°My mother said it looks like rat droppings, not testing a bite.¡±


    ¡°Quickly change its appearance!¡±


    Xiaoyang, the guard, stood by, nearly bursting intoughter when he heard the content of the letter read aloud.


    But he held back, deliberately putting on a stern face. ¡°Lady Qiao and Mr. Tong, please heed the prince¡¯s request and adjust the appearance if you can.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai ¡°¡­¡±


    How was she supposed to do that in this age without food colouring?


    Besides, all the sweet potatoes here were white, they did not have the red variety.


    The white sweet potatoes turned grayish-brown once they were steamed. It was impossible to get the golden-orange dried sweet potatoes popr inter times!


    ¡°¡­What if I can¡¯t change the color of the dried sweet potatoes?¡± Qiao Xiaomai asked slowly.


    Guard Xiaoyang hesitated, ¡°Then the prince will just have to endure his sweet potatoes looking like rat droppings.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai ¡°¡­¡±


    She too tried to suppress herughter.


    It was only an issue of appearance, but Yang Ye¡¯s words made it sound particrly unappetizing.


    However, thinking about how Yang Ye still requested for the ugly sweet potatoes to be sent to the Capital City left her speechless.


    He himself had called it like rat droppings yet he seemed to enjoy it.


    Yang Ye sure was a weird one.


    ¡°We¡¯ve run out for now. Wait three more days,¡± Qiao Xiaomai told Xiaoyang, the guard.


    ¡°Alright, but if possible, try to change the colour,¡± he replied, giving her a reminder.


    But Qiao Xiaomai knew this would only leave him disappointed.


    There was simply no way.


    On her way back to the vige, Qiao Xiaomai thought of those three sentences from Yang Ye¡¯s letter and couldn¡¯t help but chuckle.


    Imagining Yang Ye munching enthusiastically on the rat dung-colored dried sweet potatoes, sheughed and sped her chest.


    Well, she suddenly did not feel like eating it anymore.


    ¡°What if we tried colouring it with the juice of some fruit?¡± Tong Sang suggested.


    While Qiao Xiaomai was lost in thought, he seemed quite serious about solving this problem.


    Upon hearing this, Qiao Xiaomai asked, ¡°Which fruit?¡±


    ¡°Perhaps persimmons?¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai was silent for a moment, ¡°When you eat a persimmon, your entire hand gets covered in the juice. Don¡¯t you think it resembles diarrhea?¡±


    Tong Sang ¡°¡­¡±


    Imagining grayish-brown sweet potato strips soaked in yellow-orange persimmon juice was like¡­


    Stop there!


    There was a momentary stiffness on Tong Sang¡¯s handsome face. This image was too horrifying to contemte.


    ¡°We don¡¯t have time to change colours, just let Yang Ye eat his rat droppings-looking sweet potato strips!¡± Qiao Xiaomai said.


    Dried sweet potatoes made from the white variety were still eaten by many people even inter times. None of them felt it resembled rat droppings and found them delicious instead.


    Tong Sang was silent for a moment before responding, ¡°Okay.¡±


    Indeed, they were quite busy now.


    While drying sweet potatoes, he was always engrossed in intense studying.


    Getting the top rank in the small Huai¡¯an County meant nothing. The imperial examination was held in the Prefecture City, where all the schrs from the entire Prefecture gathered. He couldn¡¯t afford to be careless.


    Thus, amidst their individual busy schedules, Qiao Xiaomai and Tong Sang put Yang Ye¡¯s letter on the back-burner.


    Three dayster, Qiao Xiaomai took a hundred kilograms of sweet potato strips to Xiaoyang, the guard, and asked him to convey to Yang Ye that she could not change the color of the dried sweet potatoes, so he would have to try for himself.

 Chapter 638 - 638: Xiaomai Starts a Dispute

    Chapter 638 -638: Xiaomai Starts a Dispute


    "I didn''t promise her at the time. It''s up to you." Tong Sang recounted the situation and concluded this way.


    "What did you go over there for?" Qiao Xiaomai asked.


    "To ask about the work arrangements for the next few days."


    "Why didn''t you tell mest night?"


    "I was afraid you would be upset." Qiao Xiaomai had been clearly in a bad mood these past few days.


    "So you think I''m going to be happy now?" Qiao Xiaomai narrowed her peach blossom eyes at him.


    She was peeling shrimps, her hands full of oil.


    Lately, she truly had been living the life of luxury, running to the town every day, never repeating a meal, buying anything she wanted to eat, regardless of the price, as long as it was avable in Bailu Town.


    She was always generous with herself and her people.


    However, she definitely did not consider the Zhang Family one of her own. They had mentioned before that they would only seek Tong Sang in case of life and death situations. Yet only a few dayster, they had Tong Sang at their sickbed, asking for Buddha Jumps Over the Wall.


    Had they forgotten how they had manipted her and Yang Ye?


    With such thick skin, she couldn''t help but nce at Zhuang Luhe, "Mother, you should learn from Sang''s mother. Just a few days ago she was spreading dirty rumors about me and another man, but now she has the gall to ask me for Buddha Jumps Over the Wall. See, this is what it means to live freely."


    Tong Sang "..."


    Zhuang Luhe "..."


    Qiao Changshun "..."


    To Tong Sang, Qiao Xiaomai''s words were somewhat harsh. What did she mean by ''Sang''s mother''? After all, she was her mother too.


    Zhuang Luhe and Qiao Changshun were shocked. They thought the Tong Family had simply kept their promise made during the marriage proposal. So this was the actual reason behind their separation?


    And Qiao Xiaomai''s disrespectful attitude towards her mother-inw... this was unfilial piety...


    Especially said right in front of Tong Sang, these words were simply heart-wrenching for him.


    The whole table fell silent. Qiao Xiaomai looked up and scanned the room, then smiled, "Let us continue eating, mother. Don''t think I''m just spouting nonsense. I''m serious. Our family has improved a lot. You need to stand tall and confident like a true mistress of a wealthy household."


    "Don''t be like before, tolerating every injustice and acting stingy ¨C it''s all just signs of a petty and petty lifestyle."


    The reason why Zhuang Luhe fell ill was partly due to her physical condition and partly due to her emotional problems.


    She had suffered for half her life, especially in thest six months. Inparison to the torment in her heart, the physical pain was nothing. Nearly every moment, she was tormented by guilt. Now that she had returned home and seen such changes, her feelings of guilt and frustration couldn''t be contained.


    A tidal wave of guilt and despair had erupted simultaneously,bined with her already poor health, which left her bedridden.


    "Mother, you''ve already had a brush with death, and there''s nothing you can''t let go of now. For instance, this situation: Are you going to watch Sang''s mother demand favors from me after she ndered me? Howe you haven''t inherited your mother''s fierceness?"


    Qiao Xiaomai continued, "Or should I invite Grandma here to teach you a thing or two?"


    When she was in a good mood, Zhang Family could get away with it. She would let it slide for the sake of Tong Sang.


    But recently her mood has been poor, and if they had the nerve to irritate her during this time, they couldn''t me her for snapping back.


    That was just her nature, and when she truly got angry, she was fearless and even she herself was scared.


    And these were her true feelings. Part of the reason she sought Zhuang Luhe was because she hoped there would be someone, an elder, at home who could stand up to the Zhang Family. Otherwise, being a junior, she was at a disadvantage in in sight.


    After witnessing Hua Xiaofeng''s behavior, she was even more convinced of this idea.@@novelbin@@

 Chapter 639: 639: Sigh

    Chapter 639: Chapter 639: Sigh


    ¡°This, this¡­¡± Zhuang L¨¹he was somewhat at a loss.


    Qiao Xiaomai saying such things in front of Tong Sang, this¡­


    She couldn¡¯t help but look at Tong Sang.


    Tong Sang returned a bitter smile hinged on powerlessness.


    ¡°What¡¯s this?¡± Qiao Xiaomai raised an eyebrow, used a handkerchief to wipe the grease off her hands, picked up her chopsticks and began eating the shrimp, ¡°Mom, I won¡¯t swallow my anger like you. One¡¯s treatment is earned.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Zhuang L¨¹he turned pale.


    Even she wasmpooned by this remark.


    Tong Sang ¡°¡­¡±


    He was reminded of what Qiao Xiaomai had said before, that she treated Qiao Changshun and Qiao Dami brusquely andcked patience since she didn¡¯t consider them family, poking at their weak spots on purpose.


    Now Zhuang L¨¹he was subjected to the same treatment.<div>


    ¡°Xiaomai, your mom just recovered, don¡¯t say nonsense.¡± Qiao Changshun put down his chopsticks and patted Zhuang L¨¹he¡¯s shoulder.


    On hearing that, Qiao Xiaomai rolled her eyes, ¡°I¡¯m not talking nonsense. Mom Tong criticized me a few days ago for being unclean with other men, yet now she has the gut to ask me to cook Buddha Jumps Over the Wall. Does she really think I have no temper at all?¡±


    ¡°Oh, yes. You¡¯re all made of y, none of you have a temper.¡± As she spoke, she rolled her eyes again, ¡°I might as well invite grandma here tomorrow. She¡¯s the most reasonable of all.¡±


    ¡°Or, as dad suggested, you cook Buddha Jumps Over the Wall and invite dad and grandpa over.¡± Seeing Qiao Xiaomai say this, and her eye roll, Tong Sang immediately said.


    Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s words actually included him in the ridicule, and the act of Zhang Family pricked his backbone. He wasn¡¯t made of y. He was ill-tempered.


    Upon hearing this, Qiao Xiaomai looked at him, ¡°Huh.¡±


    Huh.


    He had long understood the true meaning of ¡®huh¡¯. Now Qiao Xiaomai hit him with another ¡®huh¡¯, which made him uneasy, ¡°Really, I¡¯ll go and invite dad and grandpa.¡±


    Seeing this, the sarcasm on Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s face didn¡¯t decrease at all. She chewed the shrimp in her mouth and looked at Zhuang L¨¹he, ¡°Parents don¡¯t necessarily need to give up everything for their children. First, parents are human beings. Being parents is secondary.¡±


    ¡°Making a mistake asionally is not a big deal. There¡¯s no need to punish yourself for the rest of your life because of one mistake.¡±


    ¡°As children, unconditional filial piety isn¡¯t required. Parents¡¯ normal needs must be satisfied, but the unreasonable ones should be denied.¡±


    ¡°You must hold your own bnce deep in your heart.¡±


    As Qiao Xiaomai spoke, her gaze swept over Zhuang L¨¹he, Qiao Changshun and Tong Sang one by one. Her eyes were full of meaning.


    The three of them ¡°¡­¡±


    Tong Sang touched his nose andmented, ¡°Anyway, I didn¡¯t promise anything, just leave this matter.¡±


    Next time he encountered such a situation, he would better not tell Qiao Xiaomai.


    He underestimated the severity of Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s mood.


    Zhuang L¨¹he¡¯s face was pale. She lowered her head and said nothing.


    Qiao Changshun was ustomed to being provoked by Qiao Xiaomai. At these words, a smile appeared on his face, ¡°Xiaomai, don¡¯t you see that I¡¯m changing? We should allow some time for change.¡±<div>


    ¡°Then, if Sang¡¯s dades to stir up trouble, you can handle him. I don¡¯t want to cook any Buddha Jumps Over the Wall.¡±


    She loved delicious food and cooking, but in the middle of summer, she really didn¡¯t want to hang around the stove every day.


    Upon hearing this, Qiao Changshun replied, ¡°Okay, leave this matter to me.¡±


    Over the past six months, all the family matters had been shouldered by Qiao Xiaomai alone. As a father, it was time for him to muster up some courage.@@novelbin@@<div>

 Chapter 640: 640: These People

    Chapter 640: Chapter 640: These People


    Qiao Changshun¡¯s words resonated with Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s thoughts. She nodded, the sarcasm finally fading from her small face. ¡°Mom, now that you¡¯re feeling better, you should prepare a small feast tonight and invite grandfather to tell him you¡¯re back,¡± she said.


    Zhuang Luhe ¡°¡­¡±


    She looked up at Qiao Xiaomai, stunned.


    Qiao Xiaomai cast a sidelong nce at her, ¡°What? nning to hide at home forever?¡±


    These past few days, Zhuang Luhe had been bedridden. She managed to get up only yesterday. Upon hearing the news, Qiao Qinghe, Zhu Cuiying, and Wu Yinfeng, and even neighbour Aunt Chen and people who had good rtions with her came to visit.


    At that time, Zhuang Luhe was unconscious, so the onus of attending to them fell on Qiao Xiaomai and Qiao Changshun.


    Judging by this trend, no one in the vige should be gossiping.


    With this in mind, Qiao Changshun also persuaded, ¡°Luhe, they¡¯re all family. Invite them over.¡±


    Hearing this, Zhuang Luhe bit her lip and hesitantly nodded.


    A smile spread across Qiao Changshun¡¯s face. ¡°I haven¡¯t had your cooking in quite a while. I¡¯ll be your sous-chef tonight.¡±<div>


    Upon hearing this, Zhuang Luhe struggled to muster up a smile.


    The thought of facing outsiders filled her with fear and embarrassment.


    Qiao Xiaomai noticed her expressions and couldn¡¯t help but purse her lips in disapproval.


    Qiao Changshun and Zhuang Luhe, these two were a match made in heaven, just like two naive steamed buns. If she had to be the antagonist, Sun Family, she would also choose to take advantage of these two.


    Qiao Changshun had not fully recovered yet, and now Zhuang Luhe was also like this. It was enough to infuriate her.


    Tong Sang had been watching her the whole time. Seeing that she had finished her prawns, he quickly asked, ¡°Would you like more? I could help peel them.¡±


    ¡°No need.¡± Qiao Xiaomai gave him a stare. ¡°Eat quickly. We have to study after.¡±


    Tong Sang quickly nodded his head. ¡°Okay.¡±


    And so, silence fell upon the dining table.


    After lunch, while Tong Sang went back to their old courtyard to study, Zhuang Luhe, Qiao Changshun, and Qiao Dami went back to their rooms to nap.


    As for Qiao Xiaomai, she went to Qiao Family¡¯s old courtyard to discuss with Qiao Qinghe about dinner.@@novelbin@@


    Now, only Qiao Qinghe was left in the old Qiao Family courtyard. Qiao Changfu¡¯s family had moved to their new house while Qiao Meipan had been taken away by Sun Junyan to care for the Sun Family.


    After hearing Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s words, Qiao Qinghe responded, ¡°Alright. I¡¯lle over once I finish work in the fields.¡±


    He was pleased that Zhuang Luhe was back. As long as she had returned, that was all that mattered.


    Looking at his elderly face, Qiao Xiaomai said, ¡°Grandfather, it¡¯s too hard for you to take care of these dozens of acres ofnd by yourself. I¡¯ll hire someone to help tomorrow.¡±


    ¡°No need, no need.¡± Qiao Qinghe quickly waved his hands in dismissal.


    ¡°Mom¡¯s back now. You don¡¯t need to push yourself so hard, grandfather.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Qiao Qinghe paused, then gave a bitter smile. ¡°This is my way of finding peace.¡±


    ¡°If you act like this, my parents and I will feel guilty.¡±<div>


    Always, people choose to punish themselves after making mistakes.


    The guilt could be overwhelming.


    But what was the use of feeling guilty?


    The mistake had already been made. This kind of self-punishment¡­ didn¡¯t make her happy at all.<div>


    Qiao Qinghe was not the Sun family; seeing him work hard day after day didn¡¯t make her feel the slightest vindictive satisfaction.


    ¡°Grandfather, it¡¯s settled then. Tomorrow, I¡¯ll hire someone to help you. You don¡¯t need to refuse, or else I¡¯ll have my father help you. If you can bear seeing him limp around while working for you, then go ahead and keep refusing.¡±


    Qiao Qinghe ¡°¡­¡±


    He helplessly rubbed his face. He truly felt guilty, as if he had let down his second son¡¯s family.


    ¡°I¡¯ll consider that as a yes. Come for dinner tonight. I have to go back now as I have matters to attend to.¡± Seeing that Qiao Qinghe had not refused, Qiao Xiaomai excused herself.


    These people around her¡­ sigh.

 Chapter 641: 641: Face off with Tong Xingda

    Chapter 641: Chapter 641: Face off with Tong Xingda


    In the evening, Qiao Qinghe appeared in the Qiao family¡¯s small courtyard, and the family had a quite harmonious dinner together.


    Qiao Qinghe solemnly thanked Zhuang Luhe. If it weren¡¯t for his indulgence over the years, the Sun family would not have turned to banditry.


    Zhuang Luhe dared not ept Qiao Qinghe¡¯s gratitude and quickly stepped aside.


    Talking about the past inevitably led to tearful emotions. They spent the whole evening untilte night having dinner.


    The next day, Qiao Changshun followed the workers to the fields. Since Zhuang Luhe¡¯s return, he had been revolving around her, not having gone to the fields for several days. He needed to check on them.


    He also had to assign some work to Qiao Qinghe, and he needed to check on that as well.


    Qiao Xiaomai followed him too.


    The water from the Spiritual Spring was inexhaustible. She had to irrigate the crops more to earn a big fortune at the time of the autumn harvest.


    Zhuang Luhe stayed at home sewing clothes, with the sisters Qiao Zhaodi and Qiao Yindi apanying her.@@novelbin@@


    Truthfully, she felt somewhat awkward in front of the two sisters. Although it was Qiao Chang¡¯an who had made the mistake, to have these two sisters be¡­ domestic ves¡­<div>


    But thinking of Qiao Xiaomai, she wiped away her tears and didn¡¯t dwelve too much into it.


    If it wasn¡¯t for Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s ingenious strategies, she didn¡¯t dare to think where Xiaomai would be now.


    Well, since things had turned out this way, she would just have to ept it.


    She needed to recuperate from her poor health, and having people to help with the household chores was indeed rather nice.


    In the evening, when the workers came to settle their wages, Zhuang Luhe subconsciously hid in the house, and Xiaomai didn¡¯t stop her. No need to rush things.


    Days passed like this, with Xiaomai and Tong Sang staying at the Qiao family¡¯s ce. One day at noon, when Zhuang Luhe had finished cooking lunch, the family gathered around the dining table for lunch.


    Lately, Tong Sang had been teaching Qiao Dami how to read whenever he was free. The lunchtime conversation revolved around this topic, and since discussing education was a positive topic, everyone had a smile on their face. Suddenly, the courtyard gate was knocked, ¡°Sang, Xiaomai!¡±


    It was a powerful male voice, it was Tong Xingda.


    Hearing the voice, Tong Sang immediately stood up, rapidly walking towards the gate. His heart was racing, wondering what Tong Xingda wasing over for¡­


    The courtyard gate was opened, and Tong Xingda poked his head in to look around. Seeing a group of people gathered around the dining table, he immediatelyughed, ¡°Changsun, this isn¡¯t fair, you have turned Sang into a son-inw.¡±


    Tong Xingda said these words in jest, but Qiao Changsun didn¡¯t dare to treat it as a joke and quickly replied, ¡°No, Luhe is not feeling well, so Xiaomai decided to stay and take care of her for a few days.¡±


    ¡°Oh, our daughter-inw has returned home from work.¡± Noticing Zhuang Luhe, Tong Xingda greeted her.


    Zhuang Luheughed in an awkward manner, not saying a word.


    Tong Xingda made his way into the courtyard, ¡°You¡¯re having your meal just in time. Let¡¯s eat together.¡±


    ¡°Yes, let¡¯s eat together,¡± Qiao Changsun quickly stood up and went into the kitchen to fetch some chopsticks.


    Tong Xingda sat down, took a bite from the dishes, and then furrowed his brow. Something was off about the taste, ¡°Who made this?¡±


    ¡°Luhe made it, what¡¯s wrong?¡± Qiao Changsun replied.


    ¡°Oh, it seems different with Xiaomai around. Xiaomai, even aftering back home you still let your mother-inw cook, huh?¡± Tong Xingda turned to look at Qiao Xiaomai. Even though he was smiling, there was a hint of sarcasm in his tone.


    Upon hearing his words, a faint smile appeared on Xiaomai¡¯s face, ¡°After all, my value in the family is well known. I can¡¯t just be cooking in the kitchen all day.¡±<div>


    ¡°No matter how valuable you are, you are still younger when ites to elders.¡± Tong Xingda was not expecting Xiaomai¡¯s nonchnt reply, and his smile instantly disappeared.


    ¡°It¡¯s true that I¡¯m younger, but my mom simply doesn¡¯t want me to work.¡±

 Chapter 683: Lets have a banquet to celebrate!

    Chapter 683: Chapter 683: Let¡¯s have a banquet to celebrate!


    Meanwhile, it took Mrs. Zhang a while to process the news. She was still a bit dazed and asked, ¡°Sang, are you really a schr now?¡±


    ¡°I am, I am!¡± Zhu Hongyun, on the other hand, was quick to respond with her teeth showing in a broad grin.


    Wow, Tong Sang is quite amazing for being self-taught.


    Oh my, the Tong Family is trulymendable. Despite their property being confiscated, they¡¯ve produced a schr!


    Marrying into the Tong Family is the best decision I¡¯ve made in this life!


    But then, recalling the current situation at home, Zhu Hongyun looked at Mrs. Zhang with some frustration. What a fool to bber about Qiao Xiaomai having an affair with another man in front of Sang. Should this kind of gossip be discussed in front of Tong Sang?


    This should be spread secretly until everyone knows about it!


    Look, Tong Sang will probably separate from the family because of this mess.


    After the separation, the advantages that she and Tong Eng are likely to get will reduce.


    Mrs. Zhang had no idea that Zhu Hongyun was silently cursing herself for being stupid. Upon confirming her son truly had be a schr, she jumped with joy and quickly ran to Tong Sang, mimicking Tong Xingda and patting Sang on the shoulder.


    Tong Dang and his wife Li Rou, both with kind faces, also came over with congrattions on their lips.


    Zhu Hongyun, seeing this, quickly pulled Tong Eng over. Her face was blooming into a cheerful smile, and sweet words flowed out of her mouth like honey.


    Tong Sang¡¯s face remained indifferent and he stayed silent.


    At this moment, the sound of a gong came from afar. The herald of good news had arrived.


    The herald was riding a carriage, but they purposefully slowed its pace so as not to reach the schr¡¯s house while the schr himself was still on the road.


    Upon entering the vige, they dismounted and began inquiring about the exact location of the Tong family while sounding their gongs. The lively sounds attracted many vigers.


    In Anping Vige¡¯s history, Tong Sang was the first to be a schr.


    This kind of good news was appearing in Anping Vige for the first time.


    Such a scene, rarely seen once in several decades, should not be missed!


    ¡°The heralds are here.¡± Sang maneuvered out of his family¡¯s close circle and strode to the gate.


    A group of vigers led three officers towards him. Tong Sang greeted them, and as the officers offered their congrattions, he parted to let them enter his home.


    At this moment, Tong Tiehu also emerged and invited the officers inside his home, serving sugar water and offering rewards for their service.@@novelbin@@


    After setting off fireworks, the officers read the good news about Tong Sang¡¯s sess in front of the vigers, then handed it over to him.


    The certificate stamped with the government seal must be carefully kept as it¡¯s an admission ticket to the examination hall.


    The officers stayed a little longer, expressing more congrattions before leaving on horseback.


    Once the officers left, the watching vigers gave their blessings before leaving too, the joyous moment belonged to the Tong family.


    ¡°Sang¡¯s father, go to Jiwuju in the town and book a banquet for today. Let¡¯s have a joyous celebration!¡± Mrs. Zhang said to Tong Xingda delightedly.


    The one thousand six hundred taels of silver Xiaomai giftedst time were all under Tong Xingda¡¯s control.


    Tong Xingda grunted at her words, his smile fading a bit, ¡°A single table at Jiwuju costs a hundred taels! I think it would be better to host a feast at home, inviting our rtives, friends, and all the vigers.¡±


    The first schr in Anping Vige, this is an historical event!


    The celebration must not be lesser than Tong Tiehu¡¯s sixtieth birthday party!


    Everyone in the vige shoulde! The standards for the banquet need to be even higher!

 Chapter 643: 643: Even the Mother-in-law Cant Discipline Her!

    Chapter 643: Chapter 643: Even the Mother-inw Can¡¯t Discipline Her!


    ¡°The matter waspleted without ever speaking about it.¡± Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s expression remained cold.


    ¡°Don¡¯t you know the principle that a child should not speak of their elders¡¯ faults?!¡± Tong Xingda barked.


    ¡°No, I can¡¯t read,¡± Xiaomai deflected.


    ¡°You¡¯re doing this on purpose!¡± Seeing Xiaomai¡¯s behavior, the sparks of anger in Tong Xingda¡¯s heart instantly turned into a roaring fire.


    ¡°I¡¯m speaking the truth, how is that intentional? Why don¡¯t we ask grandpa to judge, or even invite the vigers to judge?¡± Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s expression remained cold.


    Tong Xingda, strong on the outside but weak on the inside, harsh no matter how soft-hearted, she always believed that the louder your voice, the more capable you were.


    But to see Tong Xingda scolding her so loudly, simply because he was an elder, tsk.


    ¡°Grandpa and the vigers don¡¯t weigh heavily enough; I¡¯m sure you wouldn¡¯t ept their judgment. Maybe we should let Lord Wei judge, he is from the royal family, known for his fairness and impartiality.¡±


    ¡°Moreover, he is currently revising the ¡°Daqi Laws¡± under the emperor¡¯s orders. I should consult him to see whichw restricts a wife from living in her maternal home after marriage.¡±


    Tong Xingda was taken aback¡­<div>


    Mentioning Yang Ye definitely made a statement.


    If allegations of fraudulent marriage and Mrs. Zhang¡¯s unfounded words were to reach Yang Ye, then the Tong Family would undoubtedly suffer severe consequences.


    His face turned from pale to ck.


    He was infuriated! Intolerably infuriated!


    As the elder, he couldn¡¯t handle Qiao Xiaomai, a vige wife!


    ¡°Father, let¡¯s talk calmly, talk calmly.¡± Seeing how angry Tong Xingda was, Tong Sang quickly stood up to mediate.


    However, as soon as he spoke, Tong Xingda turned his anger toward him, ¡°How can you be called a man? You can¡¯t even control your own wife! Our family went bankrupt for you to get married, and you allow your wife to talk to me like this!¡±


    Tong Sang felt wronged hearing these words, and so Qiao Xiaomai answered directly. ¡°Went bankrupt? Wasn¡¯t our property confiscated a long time ago? Sang used his private savings for our marriage.¡±


    Had she remained silent, it would have been better. Her retort simply added fuel to the fire.


    Tong Xingda became even more enraged. He red at Xiaomai ferociously. ¡°You have no respect for your elders, you¡¯rewless!¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s expression remained cold. ¡°Oh.¡±


    What words make you particrly furious during a conversation?


    Hehe.


    Oh.


    Those two words are the divine weapons that end any conversation.


    Especially given the situation wherein Tong Xingda was so frustrated his face was red and smoking, while Xiaomai simply replied coolly ¡°Oh¡±.@@novelbin@@


    Tong Xingda stomped his foot and red at Tong Sang. He stood up abruptly and walked around the small table to grab Sang by the cor. ¡°Youe here!¡±


    Tong Xingda¡¯s actions were unusually rough. Tong Sang had no choice but to stand up. ¡°Father, let¡¯s talk calmly.¡±


    ¡°So this is how your wife talks calmly with you?! Worthless! You can¡¯t even control your wife!¡± Tong Xingda reached to grab Sang¡¯s cor. ¡°Since you can¡¯t control her, let¡¯s return home and I¡¯ll teach you exactly how!¡±<div>


    Tong Sang dodged his hand, then he put his arm around Tong Xingda¡¯s shoulder, forcibly pulling him toward the exit. ¡°Father,e outside.¡±


    Tong Xingda immediately shouted, ¡°You rebel, what are you trying to do!¡±


    Seeing this, Qiao Changshun and Zhuang Luhe panicked. They both almost simultaneously stood up to intervene. Qiao Xiaomai coldly said, ¡°Sit down!¡±


    ¡°Xiaomai, you¡­.¡± Qiao Changshun anxiously began to speak. ¡°That¡¯s your father-inw, how can you speak to him like that?¡±<div>


    ¡°What did I do wrong? Wasn¡¯t our tone the same when we talked? If I talk to my father like this, then does he, as my father-inw, have some special privilege or something?¡±


    [Tong Sang is a local, if he suddenly changes into modern thinking, it will be too abrupt, the transformation should take ce gradually]

 Chapter 644: 644: You Should Just Change Your Surname to Qiao

    Chapter 644: Chapter 644: You Should Just Change Your Surname to Qiao


    ¡°You!¡±


    Qiao Changshun was so choked up that he couldn¡¯t say a word.


    How could he respond to that?


    Zhuang L¨¹he spoke up, ¡°It¡¯s precisely because he is your biological father that he can¡¯t punish you, nor will he really get angry with you. But your father-inw is a person who needs to be treated politely and respectfully.¡±


    ¡°Even if I¡¯m not polite and respectful, he still can¡¯t do anything to me.¡± Qiao Xiaomai looked towards the door as Tong Sang was pulling Tong Xingda out of the courtyard, she only got a glimpse of a swish of clothing.


    She picked up her chopsticks emotionlessly and continued eating.


    ¡°How can you have this attitude!¡± Zhuang L¨¹he was so anxious that her face turned red.


    Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s behavior today was unfilial! If Tong Xingda gossiped about it in the vige, her reputation would be ruined.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong with my attitude?¡± Qiao Xiaomai looked at her, a hint of sarcasm yed at the corner of her mouth, ¡°Watch carefully, I¡¯m demonstrating how to deal with irrational elders. You and dad should learn something.¡±


    ¡°You!¡± Zhuang L¨¹he was left speechless with anger.<div>


    Qiao Xiaomai leisurely picked up a slice of cucumber, ¡°Why so afraid, the Tong family wouldn¡¯t dare to make a fuss.¡±


    Let alone break the marital ties.


    Firstly, Tong Sang would absolutely not agree.


    Secondly, the Tong family wouldn¡¯t want to let go of a daughter-inw who was capable of making money.


    An asional daughter-inw who can contribute 1,600 taels of money, how many could be found throughout Daqi?


    Huh.


    Speaking of Tong Sang, he pulled Tong Xingda away from the Qiao family. As Tong Xingda thrashed his fists and kicked his feet, he let out vicious curses, ¡°You might as well change yourst name to Qiao! I was humiliated by Qiao Xiaomai, and you didn¡¯t even dare to let out a fart!¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re grown up now, but she¡¯s already got your soul after just a few days of marriage!¡±


    ¡°The marriage was because you and mother insisted on seeking it, I didn¡¯t want to marry her in the first ce.¡± Tong Sang said calmly.


    At these words, Tong Xingda¡¯s fury climbed to another level.


    ¡°Even though I sought the marriage, as a daughter-inw, she shouldn¡¯t talk to me in this manner!¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s in a bad mood.¡±@@novelbin@@


    If it had been before, Qiao Xiaomai would have responded politely to Tong Xingda¡¯s previous words.


    But these past few days, Qiao Xiaomai had been holding a grudge. When Tong Xingda picked a fight, she naturally returned fire.


    ¡°If she¡¯s in a bad mood, she can raise her voice at me? When have you seen me get upset and argue with your grandfather?¡± Recalling what Qiao Xiaomai had said, Tong Xingda¡¯s anger surged, ¡°It¡¯s not just arguing! She rebutted each and every word I said!¡±


    ¡°Dad, how many times have you disobeyed your grandfather¡¯s words and quarreled with him?¡± Tong Sang retorted.


    ¡°You little brat!¡± Tong Xingda hopped mad, ¡°You¡¯re getting more and more outrageous!¡±


    Tong Sang looked up at the sky, ¡°It was you and mother who insisted on me marrying her.¡±


    Tong Xingda was so angry that steam almost came out of his head. He tried to hit Tong Sang, but Tong Sang was much quicker, he couldn¡¯t even touch his fingertips.<div>


    In the end, Tong Xingda could only grind his teeth and say, ¡°She thinks she can disrespect her elders just because she has money, teach her a good lesson!¡±


    ¡°That won¡¯t do.¡± Tong Sang disagreed without a second thought.


    ¡°You ungrateful son!¡± Tong Xingda was angry and raised his hand to p Tong Sang across the face.


    He was used to hitting Zhang family members, so this move came naturally.<div>


    But Tong Sang wasn¡¯t a member of the Zhang family, he saw Tong Xingda¡¯s handing and took a small step back, immediately escaping Tong Xingda¡¯s reach.


    Tong Xingda put a lot of force into the p that missed, almost spraining his shoulder as a result.

 Chapter 691 - 691 Damn, is it over yet!

    Chapter 691: Chapter 691 Damn, is it over yet!


    Of course, Tong Sang didn¡¯t have this thing.


    The Truth Elixir is fake. It can only cause hallucinations.


    The effect of causing hallucinations could be considered insignificant or significant, depending one¡¯s perspective. Moreover, considering his sensitive status as part of the Tong Family, he never considered asking Ma Dongshu for it.


    He never thought of it, but Qiao Xiaomai did.


    Using the excuse that she had too many delicacies nearby, Qiao Xiaomai gave Ma Dongshu a bunch of wonderful treats, sessfully exchanging them for three Truth Elixirs.


    And now, they needed them.


    ¡°Both of you wait here then. I¡¯ll go ask your sister, Xiaomai, for them. She still has them,¡± said Tong Sang, before he swiftly departed using his qinggong.


    Qiao Xiaomai was moving a dressing table. She picked up this hundred-pound dresser with one hand and ced it on the cow cart. She was about to continue moving things when Tong Sang¡¯s figure appeared in the courtyard.


    Tong Sang briefly exined the situation at the new house, and as he had expected, Qiao Xiaomai immediately burst into vulgarities, ¡°Fuck! Will this never end?¡±<div>


    Tong Sang was helpless. What could he do about his family stirring up trouble?


    Should he lock up his own parents and forbid them to leave the house?


    As a junior, he was also quite desperate faced with such a situation.


    ¡°Alright then, let¡¯s hurry over,¡± he said, extending his arm to wrap it around Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s waist.


    Qiao Zhaodi and Qiao Yindi were both more honest than the other. If they went toote, they might get the short end of the stick.


    Qiao Xiaomai pulled a face but nodded, extending her arm to wrap it around his waist, and the two of them headed to the new residence.


    By the time the two of them arrived, the Zhang Family members had alreadye out of the sisters¡¯ room. They were standing under a tree, exchanging nces,municating something with their eyes.


    ¡°Zhaodi, Yindi, both of you,e out!¡± Qiao Xiaomai steadied her body and shouted at the sisters¡¯ room.


    Upon hearing her, Qiao Zhaodi and Qiao Yindi immediately ran out.


    They indeed ran out.


    Qiao Xiaomai was now their lifeline. Once she called out, the two of them rushed out swiftly.


    Qiao Xiaomai looked at their red and swollen eyes, their gloomy little faces. Her gaze then shifted to the Zhang Family members standing under the tree, Zhu Hongyun included.


    Those two were also looking at her. The Zhang Family members still looked angry, but Zhu Hongyun appeared somewhat ufortable.


    It was the first time Zhu Hongyun had seen Qiao Xiaomai since the confrontation in the kitchen of Zuixian Building.


    Stealing the recipe for Braised Pork was indeed her fault. But with Qiao Xiaomai being so wealthy, was it necessary for her to harp on this one recipe?


    What about sisterly affection?


    What about the magnanimity of the rich?


    It seemed that Qiao Xiaomai didn¡¯t care about any of those, not at all!


    Heartless!


    Out of anger, she therefore returned to her parents¡¯ house.


    When she first returned, her mother scolded her, but she didn¡¯t worry. After all, Tong Eng was always obedient to her. He¡¯d undoubtedlye to find her soon.


    Whatever the problem, Tong Eng will front the situation for her. She was not afraid.


    With this thought, shefortably settled into her parents¡¯ house.


    However, more than ten days passed without a trace of Tong Eng.


    This made her panic. Is¡­ is Tong Eng also angry with her?


    No, no, no, impossible.


    Tong Eng must¡¯ve been locked up by Qiao Xiaomai. It must be so!


    But Qiao Xiaomai is his younger sister, she has no right to lock up Tong Eng¡­


    This reason clearly isn¡¯t usible!


    Can it be that Tong Eng was truly angry with her because of this?


    She didn¡¯t deliberately hide it from Tong Eng. When the recipe was exchanged for silver, Tong Eng would definitely get a share!


    Just when she was feeling anxious and uncertain, she realized she was pregnant.


    Pregnant.@@novelbin@@


    There was a small being in her belly.


    Regardless of whether it¡¯s a boy or girl, both were her life-saving talisman.


    The Tong family had a small poption. Tong Tiehu didn¡¯t favor boys over girls. Bing pregnant was a huge contribution to the Tong family.

 Chapter 696 - 496: Becoming a Bandit

    Chapter 696: Chapter 496: Bing a Bandit


    Upon hearing Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s second choice, Zhu Hongyun¡¯s face grew even paler.


    Compensate with silver, wreck the kitchen, apologize in front of everyone.


    Qiao Xiaomai was obviously forcing her into a corner


    She couldn¡¯t do any of these things.


    Her mind races. The next moment, her hands clutch her belly, her body hunching over like a shrimp. Her face is a mask of agony, ¡°Ah, Ah! My belly hurts, my belly hurts!¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai watches her with a nk expression, ¡°Tong Sang, go fetch Doctor Wu.¡±


    ¡°Zhu Hongyun, don¡¯t assume that just because you¡¯re pregnant, I can¡¯t touch you. If Doctor Wu discovers you¡¯re faking, your only option is the first choice. I will personally make sure you spend three years in jail!¡±


    At these words, Zhu Hongyun, who¡¯d been moaning and groaning, suddenly falls silent. Her hunched back slowly straightens.


    Seeing this, Qiao Xiaomaiughs coldly, ¡°No longer acting?¡±<div>


    Zhu Hongyun lowers her head, her face slowly turning crimson.


    ¡°Harness the bullock cart, let¡¯s rush there overnight.¡± Seeing this, Qiao Xiaomai ignores her and turns to Tong Sang.


    Tong Sang grunts in agreement, his expression back to normal, ¡°You wait here, I¡¯ll go hitch the cart.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai hums indifferently, then turns to sisters Qiao Zhaodi and Qiao Yindi, ¡°You two go wash your faces.¡±


    Qiao Zhaodi and Qiao Yindi run off to the kitchen to scoop water at hermand.


    Qiao Xiaomai then turns her attention toward the Zhang Family. Having been petrified by Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s threat to Zhu Hongyun, and with Tong Sang now gone, they slowly sit down on the ground. Feeling restless and insecure, they lie down, their hands covering their heads, their bodies curled up into balls.


    Qiao Xiaomai can¡¯t be bothered with them. Her gaze returns to Zhu Hongyun, ¡°The ten taels of silver, fork it out.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t have it,¡± Zhu Hongyun says, her lips trembling.


    Qiao Xiaomaiughs, ¡°So, how much do you have?¡±


    ¡°Less than one tael.¡±@@novelbin@@


    ¡°Are you trying to fool a three-year-old? Tong Sang even has a stash of over a hundred taels of silver, and you and Tong Eng don¡¯t even have one tael?¡± Qiao Xiaomai says, scoffing at her.


    ¡°We spent it all. We have none left. Otherwise, we wouldn¡¯t have sold the prescriptions,¡± Zhu Hongyun lowers her head, her hands clenched around her clothes as she speaks.


    ¡°Zhaodi, Yindi, go search Zhu Hongyun¡¯s room. If you find anything of value, bring it out.¡± Qiao Xiaomai instructs the sisters, who are washing their faces by the washbasin.


    Thismand startles the sisters.


    What?


    Search the room?


    Behave like thieves, just like the Sun Family?


    Upon hearing this, Zhu Hongyun, raises her head, eximing, ¡°You dare!¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai raises an eyebrow, ¡°So, you do have valuable things but are unwilling to part with them.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t!¡± Zhu Hongyun retorts, flustered.


    ¡°Then what are you scared of?¡± Qiao Xiaomai nces at her, her voice suddenly icier, ¡°Zhaodi, Yindi, go search!¡±


    Upon hearing the tone of thismand, the sisters exchange a nce, and forget about finishing washing their faces. They quickly stand up and run toward Zhu Hongyun¡¯s room.


    Seeing this, Zhu Hongyun bes anxious, and tries to intercept them.


    Qiao Xiaomai calmly warns her, ¡°Don¡¯t run. If something happens to the child in your belly, your safety umbre will be gone.¡±


    Her words stop Zhu Hongyun immediately.


    It¡¯s the truth. The child in her belly is the only reason she¡¯s not harmed. Nothing can happen to it.

 Chapter 700: Why Arent You Satisfied?

    Chapter 700: Chapter 700: Why Aren¡¯t You Satisfied?


    Tong Tiehu stood with his hands behind his back, nced over Zhu Hongyun, then began to speak dispassionately, ¡°Xiaomai, did you include me in your scolding too?¡±


    ¡°Of course not, you will always be a good grandfather to me and Sang. Aside from you and Sang, I have nothing to do with the others in the Tong Family.¡± Qiao Xiaomai stated.


    On hearing her words, Tong Tiehu smirked, dropped his gaze to Zhu Hongyun, asking coldly, ¡°Did you hear that?¡±


    ¡°Now you¡¯re begging me to help you. Did you not foresee this day when you plotted against Zhaodi and Yindi?¡±


    ¡°Stupid woman! If it weren¡¯t for my grandson in your belly, I¡¯d have Sang divorce you right now!¡±


    Divorce you!


    These three words struck Zhu Hongyun like a bolt of lightning, leaving her stunned.


    Once standing erect out of agitation, she now slumped onto the ground, her face ashen.


    Even Tong Tiehu could make such a statement.<div>


    How could this happen¡­


    ¡°If you¡¯re not satisfied, you can sue me at the County Government Office,¡± Qiao Xiaomai said, her eyes resting on Tong Xingda, making her point clear.


    Tong Xingda¡¯s face paled, his body shaking subtly.


    What is he to do?


    Before his mind could react, his body shot up; bolting towards Tong Sang, he growled, ¡°You ungrateful wretch, I wasted my efforts raising you! You¡¯ve be a schr but you can¡¯t even control your wife. Firmly divorce her!¡±


    By the time he finished, he was standing in front of Tong Sang, his arm raised high ready to strike him across the face.


    Tong Sang raised his arm, urately catching Tong Xingda¡¯s outstretched limb.


    His handsome face bore a numbed expression, yet his eyes were tinged with redness. He word by word retorted, ¡°If I divorce her, am I to live with the rest of you for the rest of my life?¡±


    ¡°Have any of you ever treated me as family? Have you ever considered my feelings when constantly coercing her for items, caught in the middle as I am?¡±


    ¡°You demand things, sheplies. But why are you still unsatisfied! Why are you still insisting on causing trouble! The dowry she brought is from the Qiao Family. You have no right to im or touch it!¡±


    ¡°You are all so greedy, is 1,600 taels not enough to satisfy your appetites? The silver and the prescription she gave should outweigh the assets we¡¯ve lost. Why can¡¯t you be content?¡±


    Remembering the humiliation he suffered after the seizure of their property, Tong Sang¡¯s voice choked, ¡°You¡¯re all young and able-bodied. If you want to live like nobles, then go earn it yourselves. She¡¯s given you the prescription, she¡¯s shown you the way.¡±


    ¡°Why do you always expect to do nothing and have silver fall into yourp? Why do you constantly want to take advantage of her? Do you think you can mistreat her just like you did Zhaodi and Yindi?¡±


    ¡°Have you forgotten that she severed ties with the Sun Family? Have you forgotten how resolute she was when she shed herself?¡±


    ¡°Do you think just because she¡¯s my wife, you can control her? Do you think she likes me so much that I carry significant influence over her?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll tell you now, no, absolutely not!¡±


    ¡°She used to greet you with a warm smile, the predicament we¡¯re in now is all your fault!¡±@@novelbin@@


    As Tong Sang reached this point, he paused to push back the tears welling up in his eyes, a self-deprecating smile appearing on his face. ¡°Also, ¡®Pa¡¯, ¡®Ma¡¯, have you ever truly considered me as your son?¡±


    ¡°Have you ever been genuinely considerate towards me?¡±

 Chapter 648: Sentencing

    Chapter 648: Chapter 648: Sentencing


    The next day, Qiao Xiaomai and Tong Sang really went to see Doctor Wu.


    Doctor Wu took her pulse, and the result was that everything was normal.


    She was not pregnant.


    This result made both of them breathe a sigh of relief.


    Tong Sang began to study hard, but he still went to work in the fields when it was necessary.


    Not only did he do his own work, but he also did Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s share.


    Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s days became leisurely. Zhuang L¨¹he cooked meals, Qiao Zhaodi and Qiao Yindi did house chores, and she could do whatever she wanted each day.


    With nothing to do, she went to the manor every day to oversee the progress of the construction, go up the hill to check the fruit trees, and go down to the fields to check all types of crops being nted.


    She worked hard to sprinkle Spiritual Spring water on the roots of these crops. Fortunately, the weather was hot now, and as soon as she sprinkled it, it dried quickly, leaving no trace for others to see.


    After a few days like this, one day she went to town to see Yang Ye and inquire about Zhan Jin¡¯s case.


    She brought over a y pot of Buddha Jumps Over the Wall this time, as Yang Ye was a person who really did hard work and deserved her making this dish in the kitchen.


    These days, Yang Ye had been checking the files of cases judged in Huai¡¯an County over the years. With the Dean of the College here, there hadn¡¯t been any major incidents in Huai¡¯an County over the years, just minor matters.


    The county magistrate didn¡¯t need to use the ¡°Daqi Law¡± for these small issues and solved them easily and light-heartedly.


    While the magistrate handled matters light-heartedly, this wasn¡¯t good for Yang Ye, who was nning to return to the Capital City, on to the Ministry of Punishments, and ask them for the case files.


    When he saw Qiao Xiaomaiing, he immediatelyughed, ¡°I was just about to send someone to call you.¡±


    He exined the reason he was leaving, and at the end, he asked, ¡°So, do you want toe to the Capital City with me to broaden your horizons?¡±


    ¡°The Capital City¡­¡± Qiao Xiaomai hesitated, and then shook her head, ¡°That won¡¯t work, I can¡¯t leave. I have to keep an eye on the progress of the manor at home, and the harvest season is starting soon. Plus, there¡¯s my mother, who seems to be adapting well right now, but¡­¡±


    ¡°Fine, fine.¡± Yang Ye interrupted her, ¡°I know you¡¯re the backbone of your family, no need to exin further.¡±


    Oops!¡±,¡±Qiao Xiaomai said, with an innocent look on her face. Wasn¡¯t she telling the truth?


    Yang Ye snorted, made the maid bring a bowl and spoon, and started eating the Buddha Jumps Over the Wall. While eating, he said, ¡°Zhan Jin has already been sentenced. He killed someone unintentionally while he was drunk. This is not considered intentional murder, so he wasn¡¯t sentenced to death, but to life imprisonment. He has been sent to the south to do hardbor.¡±


    ¡°The south?¡±


    ¡°They¡¯re building canals down south. There are many rivers andkes there. The Emperor hopes that we can divert some water to the north.¡±


    @@novelbin@@


    Upon hearing this, Qiao Xiaomai responded with a long ¡°Oh,¡± a version of south-to-north water diversion in ancient times. Emperor Yong¡¯an was truly a wise and capable ruler.


    ¡°What about Zhan Jin¡¯s son?¡± asked Qiao Xiaomai again. ¡°The wound on my mother¡¯s right arm was caused by him hitting her with a stick. He also coordinated with children from Linzhang Vige to throw stones at my mother, causing her to bleed from the head.¡±


    At first, she thought the hidden injuries on Zhuang L¨¹he were caused by Zhan Jin, but after careful questioning, she found out that some of them were caused by Zhan Jin¡¯s son.


    Such a vicious nature at such a young age, it would be dreadful when he grows up.


    Upon hearing this, Yang Ye was stunned, ¡°Was there really such a thing?¡±


    ¡°Indeed, I was furious when I heard about it.¡±


    ¡°I never knew about this before, we only arrested Zhan Jin. His son is currently being taken care of by Zhan Jin¡¯s old mother. But, if we really arrested him, how would we sentence him? He¡¯s only six years old.¡±

 Chapter 706: Dogleg

    Chapter 706: Chapter 706: Dogleg


    Qiao Xiaomai ¡°¡­¡±


    How dare she brazenly use Zhu Hongyun! Just how thick-skinned can she be?


    And look how smoothly she switched her attitudes¡ªfrom overwhelming aggression to sycophancy¡ªwithout any awkwardness in between.


    ¡®Sang, little sister, if you two are angry, vent it on Xiaoyun. She¡¯s young and made a mistake. Don¡¯t hesitate because of any family sentiments, punish her as you see necessary.¡¯


    Seeing both Qiao Xiaomai and Tong Sang remain silent, Zhu Hongfu hurriedly continued.


    ¡®As for the kitchen, smash it if you please. Smash it any way you like!¡¯


    Qiao Xiaomai scoffed, retorting, ¡®We won¡¯t do it. Your Zhu Family can have at it.¡¯


    ¡®Fine, fine, fine. You two must be tired from the ox cart journey, rest now. Xiaoyun and I will handle it.¡¯ Zhu Hongfu agreed hastily, then sternly called Zhu Hongyun, ¡®Xiaoyun! Didn¡¯t you hear me? Get down from there!¡¯


    Zhu Hongyun, who had been feigning death all this time, finally reacted upon hearing his words, slowly straightening herself.<div>


    Seeing this, Qiao Xiaomaimented, ¡®She¡¯s pregnant, don¡¯t overwork her.¡¯


    ¡®Rest assured, sister. A few smashes from her will suffice, I¡¯ll handle the rest! tes, bowls, pots and pans, I¡¯ll smash them all!¡¯ Zhu Hongfu patted his chest to assure Qiao Xiaomai. ¡®Xiaoyun has been spoiled and doesn¡¯t know any better. You and Sang, please don¡¯t stoop to her level.¡¯


    ¡®She¡¯s always the one causing trouble. I have no time for her antics. Sang and I are off to Prefecture City to take the exams theseing days.¡¯ Qiao Xiaomai crossed her arms, aloof and haughty.


    Of course, she was speaking the truth.


    As for Zhu Hongyun, as long as she doesn¡¯t go out of her way to cause trouble, Qiao Xiaomai could hardly spare any time for her.


    Zhu Hongfu heard this, his face featuting a broad smile as he continually praised Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s generosity and Tong Sanng¡¯s intelligence. He also wished for Tong Sang to pass the civil examination.


    Qiao Xiaomai had no patience for such ttery and promptly said, ¡®Get to it!¡¯


    ¡®Yes, yes, yes,¡¯ Zhu Hongfu quickly pulled Zhu Hongyun down from the ox cart and briskly entered the courtyard.


    ¡®Sang, you as well,e down from the roof. You and sister watch from the entrance, see how I¡¯ll destroy the kitchen.¡¯


    At his words, Tong Sang swiftly descended from the roof like a swallow and positioned himself at the kitchen door.


    Seeing this, Zhu Hongfu hurriedly lit a kerosenemp.


    Under the light of themp, he gritted his teeth, lifted a bowl from the house, and flung it hard onto the floor.


    The coarse porcin bowl shattered on the ground with a clear, ringing sound.


    He then pushed over the cab.


    He dragged out the iron pot, found a hammer, and smashed it with all his might.


    Even the tables in the kitchen were reduced to splinters within a few swings.


    Then he hurried to the doorway and nced at Tong Sang, wearing a smile, ¡®Sang, you see, I¡¯ve smashed everything I could.¡¯


    ¡®The stove is still intact.¡¯


    ¡®That¡­¡¯ Zhu Hongfu¡¯s face showed difficulty, ¡®The stove was built with bricks. I can¡¯t smash it.¡¯


    ¡®Get a sledgehammer, a few hits should do it,¡¯ Tong Sang said, expressionless.@@novelbin@@


    Led by his words, Zhu Hongfu gritted his teeth and nodded, ¡®Done!¡¯


    He picked up a sledgehammer, and went on to attack the stove, time and time again.


    The stove built of green bricks couldn¡¯t withstand his onught and was quickly reduced to rubble.


    With pots, bowls, table, cab, and even the stove smashed, the Zhu Family¡¯s kitchen was ruined.


    Tong Sang was satisfied, announcing, ¡®That will do.¡¯


    Zhu Hongfu, dripping with sweat now, wiped his brow hearing this. He was still careful to wear a appeasing smile, ¡®If you¡¯re satisfied, then it¡¯s settled.¡¯


    ¡®From now on, cooking braised pork is off limits,¡¯ Tong Sang cautioned.


    ¡®Yes, yes, yes. You can count on it. We¡¯ll cook it for ourselves only and won¡¯t sell it anymore!¡¯ Zhu Hongfu said in a definitive tone.

 Chapter 650: 650: You Will Be Immortalized For Generations

    Chapter 650: Chapter 650: You Will Be Immortalized For Generations


    ¡°And my mother, she has been oppressed so harshly by the Sun Family, and my father is indeed powerless. If she could seek a legal divorce, stand tall, and not have to endure the disdainful nces of others, I¡¯m sure she would be willing, right?¡±


    ¡°And my recipe ¨C I was the first one to think of it. If someone were to steal it, would I be able to use thew to recoup some of my losses?¡±


    ¡°Your Highness, I¡¯m just a simple country girl, I don¡¯t understand any grand principles. All I want is to have aw that can ensure justice when I¡¯m being bullied. I think most people share my sentiment.¡±


    ¡°So, if thew is well-revised, then you would¡¯ve provided an umbre of protection for ordinary folk like me, restoring fairness and justice to the world. Such a great achievement would certainly be renowned for centuries,¡±


    Yang Ye ¡°¡­¡±


    What a character, even throwing out phrases like ¡°renowned for centuries.¡±


    He sounded like a god¡­@@novelbin@@


    This touched his heart even more.


    Although Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s arguments were all centered around herself, they represented the voices of the grassroots.


    If there was aw for everything, then the plight of the grassroots would be much improved.<div>


    In that sense, thew is enacted to protect ordinary people¡­


    If themoners live well, then the Yang Family¡¯s reign would be secure.


    He was momentarily lost in thought before Yang Ye quickly refocused.


    ¡°Cut it out, don¡¯t put such a big hat on me,¡± he huffed, ¡°What else do you have in mind? Just spit it out.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m just a country girl, I don¡¯t have much on my mind¡­ It¡¯s just that the Sun Family once said that if my mother returned, they would sue her and make her suffer the pig-cage punishment. Are there any rules about that?¡±


    The Sun Family had made the threat off-handedly, but she had taken it to heart.


    Given how much Cen Hong coveted her family¡¯s house, it was possible he would make a big fuss using this issue. She needed to nip every possible problem in the bud.


    ¡°Thews of the previous dynasty addressed this; our dynasty has no regtions concerning eloped men and women.¡±


    ¡°Will there be any regtions on this in the future?¡±


    ¡°It depends. After I return, I¡¯ll have to discuss it with the court officials and ultimately leave it to the Emperor¡¯s judgment. But don¡¯t worry, I will make a point of this.¡±


    ¡°Thank you, Your Highness!¡± Qiao Xiaomai hastily expressed her gratitude.


    ¡°I don¡¯t care much for verbal thanks, think about something practical,¡± Yang Ye said as he continued to leisurely sip his soup.


    At his words, Qiao Xiaomai blinked her eyes.


    To be honest, she saw Yang Ye as a glutton who always wanted to eat fresh and unique dishes.


    But she had already expended all her ideas when the former Emperor was still alive. Now with Yang Ye demanding innovation, it added ayer of difficulty.


    She revealed an apologetic smile, ¡°Honestly, I haven¡¯t been focusing on developing new dishes recently¡­ Eh, my family¡¯s sweet potatoes and sesame are almost ready for harvest. How about I send you some when they¡¯re ready?¡±


    Yang Ye ¡°¡­¡±


    He rolled his eyes without regard for his image, ¡°Do you really think I¡¯m hungry for your sweet potatoes?¡±


    ¡°Just wait a little longer, okay? As soon as I have a new idea, I¡¯ll let you know right away.¡± Qiao Xiaomai was also unsure if her crops were as excellent as she¡¯d hoped, so she didn¡¯t want to overpromise.<div>


    Yang Ye listened to her words, a hint of dissatisfaction on his handsome face. However, he knew that it was not easy to force inspiration, even the Imperial Kitchen couldn¡¯te up with new recipes every day.

 Chapter 713: Grinding Fragrant Oil

    Chapter 713: Chapter 713: Grinding Fragrant Oil


    Qiao Changshun and Qiao Dami went to fetch water with their ox cart. By the time they returned, Qiao Xiaomai had cooked the soy milk.


    She scooped the cooked soy milk into a wooden barrel, then ced the barrel into a bigger container full of water to cool down the soy milk.


    Drinking freshly boiled soy milk in hot weather, even delicious as it was, could be overwhelmingly hot.


    She left Qiao Changshun and Qiao Dami in charge of delivering the soy milk while she continued cooking. By that time, Zhuang L¨¹he, Qiao Zhaodi, and Qiao Yindi had ground out two more barrels of soybeans.


    After cooking three rounds of soy milk, she had delivered it to both the Engineering Team and all those busy at work. The family each have chugged down two bowls, and the leftover could be used to make tofu.


    In the evening, Tong Sang returned.


    He was holding a pottery jar, with Shopkeeper He trailing behind him.


    ¡°Ah? Shopkeeper He, what brings you here?¡± Qiao Xiaomai greeted him with a sunny smile.


    ¡°Sang¡¯s sesame oil brought me here!¡± Shopkeeper He responded with a heartyugh.<div>


    ¡°Huh?¡± Qiao Xiaomai was caught by surprise, she instantly looked towards Tong Sang.


    Tong Sang handed the pottery jar she was holding to her, ¡°Take a sniff.¡±


    The pottery jar was just over a foot tall. Qiao Xiaomai took it, and without even removing the lid, she could smell the scent of sesame oil. The moment she removed the lid, the rich and aromatic scent instantly wafted out. Qiao Xiaomai involuntarily took a deep breath.


    Typical sesame oil was always fragrant, but this particr batch was produced from sesame seeds irrigated with Spiritual Spring water, which resulted in an aroma five to six times richer than ordinary ones. It was rich yet not cloying, carrying a faint refreshing fragrance.


    ¡°When I was pressing the sesame oil, the scent was so intense that many passersby caught a whiff. That¡¯s when Shopkeeper He came,¡± Tong Sang exined.


    The usual aroma from the oil mill was already lovely enough to make passersby instinctively take more deep breaths, but the quality of the sesame seeds Tong Sang used this time was extraordinary, to the point where people weren¡¯t just taking extra whiffs, but they stopped dead in their tracks outside the oil shop.


    The mill was drawing an audience solely by pressing oil, which was enough to show how tempting the aroma of the oil was.


    The shop owner asked Tong Sang more than once about how he grew his sesame seeds, even offering to buy the oil from him.


    But Tong Sang turned them down.


    Among the onlookers, there were also people asking for the price, wanting to buy the oil.


    Bailu Town was not at allcking in rich individuals.


    But Tong Sang turned them down as well.


    Finally, Shopkeeper He arrived.


    Since Shopkeeper He was family, Tong Sang agreed to sell him the sesame paste but not the oil.


    As a result, Shopkeeper He came running, nning to buy some sesame seeds.


    Sesame seeds could only be used to extract oil, to make sesame paste, or to be used as a condiment. Therefore, Qiao Xiaomai only nted ten acres. Upon learning Shopkeeper He¡¯s intention, she asked, ¡°So, how much are you nning to buy?¡±


    Shopkeeper He pretended to weigh the question, then quoted, ¡°Three thousand jin. You know that our Gi Residence has many branches in Daqi, and we can¡¯t just supply to Bailu Town.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai ¡°¡­¡±


    She held back the urge to roll her eyes and said, ¡°Shopkeeper, I only nted ten acres this year, which yields about three thousand jin. If you take all, what would I eat?¡±


    ¡°Oh, Miss Qiao, your family only has a few mouths to feed, how much can you possibly eat in a year? You wouldn¡¯t need more than ten jin, would you?¡± Shopkeeper He attempted to reason with Qiao Xiaomai.


    Qiao Xiaomai chuckled, then turned to Tong Sang and said, ¡°Left some soy milk and tofu pudding for you.¡±@@novelbin@@


    ¡°So, I just happened to be in time. Pour me a bowl too,¡± Shopkeeper He spoke up nonchntly.


    Qiao Xiaomai gave a slight smile, saying, ¡°All right then.¡±


    After eating, naturally, it was time to discuss the purchase of soybeans.

 Chapter 652: 651 Zhu Hongyun Returns

    Chapter 652: Chapter 651 Zhu Hongyun Returns


    Moreover, taking advantage of her pregnancy, she had taught her family the recipe for Braised Pork. Now her family had opened a small restaurant in their vige, specializing in Braised Pork, selling a scoop for five copper coins.


    Apart from Braised Pork, she also taught her family the recipe for malt sugar. Although malt sugar doesn¡¯t earn much, selling it along with Braised Pork minimally earns them around twenty copper coins a day or even up to seventy or eighty coins on better days.


    This kind of ie is absolutely considered good in rural areas.


    Zhu Family¡¯s vige is not far from Bailu Town, hence, the living standard in the vige is decent. The price, which couldn¡¯t be considered cheap nor expensive, was within the vigers¡¯ eptance. The Braised Pork, devised from Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s recipe, was fragrant and tender. Devouring it provided a thorough satisfaction, thus it sold well.@@novelbin@@


    These were all rted by Tong Eng. He had seen them with his own eyes. Zhu Hongyun forbade him to tell others, but he was not good at hiding things. Moreover, as this involved his family¡¯s business and Qiao Xiaomai, hence after much thought, he spilled the beans.


    Upon knowing this, Zhu Hongyun was certainly chastened, but nothing could be done to her. She was now pregnant with the future great-grandson of the Tong Family and Eng¡¯s first child, obviously they couldn¡¯t expel her like before.


    Additionally, with Tong Eng¡¯s constant pleas, the issue was eventually closed with Tong Tiehu venting his spleen.


    ¡°However, Grandpa said, he would remember what Er Sao (Second sister-inw) had done and deal with it after she gives birth.¡± Tong Sang said.


    Qiao Xiaomai, ¡°¡­How will they deal with it? Since they can¡¯t do anything while she¡¯s pregnant, will they have a n after she gives birth?¡±


    ¡°Hmm¡­ probably they will make her work harder on the farm?¡± Tong Sang himself was unsure.<div>


    On hearing this, Qiao Xiaomai rolled her eyes. She wasn¡¯t happy with the punishment.


    ¡°How about I go to Zhu Family¡¯s vige to destroy their kitchen and warn her family not to make Braised Pork anymore?¡±


    ¡°Enough with your nonsense.¡± Qiao Xiaomai red at him.


    Tong Sang gave a conciliatory smile and passed a dish to her, ¡°Then don¡¯t be angry anymore, don¡¯t engage with her in future, and this time¡­¡±


    ¡°This time, consider it as being bitten by a dog.¡± Qiao Xiaomai snorted, ¡°I can¡¯t bite back when I¡¯m bitten by a dog.¡±


    ¡°But let me make it clear now. This time I let it slide for your sake. But if she dares to cross me again, don¡¯t me me for not being considerate.¡± Qiao Xiaomai jabbed the table with her chopsticks, her little face showing a cold demeanor.


    ¡°Alright alright, no need for consideration. In front of you, I have no dignity. When the timees, confront her as you wish.¡± Tong Sang quickly agreed.


    ¡°Huh?¡± Qiao Xiaomai nced at him suspiciously.


    ¡°Obviously, I¡¯ll stand by your side, rest assured. I¡¯ll absolutely charge to the front lines for you, protecting you from harm.¡± Tong Sang quickly added.


    Qiao Xiaomai snorted, but her cold expression receded.


    Qiao Changsun hesitated for a moment, then said, ¡°Xiaomai, let it go. It¡¯s just a recipe for Braised Pork after all.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Qiao Xiaomai let out a soft ¡®hmph¡¯, ¡°Even if it¡¯s just a single copper coin, if I don¡¯t wish to give it, then I¡¯ll make an issue about it.¡±


    She¡¯sfortable giving any amount to her own people.


    But for the likes of Zhu Hongyun, even a single coin was too much.


    ¡°What¡¯s owed, I¡¯ve given. I gave 1600 taels of silver and the recipes to both sisters-inw, and even to Sang¡¯s mother. I¡¯ve done right by this family.¡±


    ¡°In the future, if anyonees to cause trouble again, I won¡¯t hesitate to hit back.¡±


    These words were a bit harsh. ¡°This family¡± seemed to indicate she did not consider herself a part of the Tong family.


    Qiao Changsun looked at Tong Sang with some concern, who gave a bitter smile in return.


    What could he say?<div>


    It was his family who acted improperly in the first ce. They surely couldn¡¯t expect Qiao Xiaomai to continuously turn the other cheek.


    Zhu Hongyun¡¯s actions indeed, were excessively unreasonable.

 Chapter 716: Never Seen Anyone So Good at Grabbing Money

    Chapter 716: Chapter 716: Never Seen Anyone So Good at Grabbing Money


    Qiao Xiaomai also lowered her voice so as not to scare away Shopkeeper He. ¡°Shopkeeper, you see my dried sweet potatoes are sold at 300 wen per jin, so the sweet potatoes as raw material shouldn¡¯t be priced too much less, don¡¯t you think?¡±


    Shopkeeper He held his breath and didn¡¯t respond.


    Since Qiao Xiaomai had brought it up, it was clear that she was about to name a high price.@@novelbin@@


    Sure enough, the next moment, Qiao Xiaomai parted her rosy lips and threw out a price that made Shopkeeper He wish he could roll on the ground in distress. ¡°Sweet potatoes for 250 wen per jin, sesame seeds for 500 wen per jin, beans for 600 wen per jin.¡±


    ¡°Miss Qiao, you¡¯re basically mugging us!¡± Shopkeeper He stroked his chest uncontrobly. He had to calm down, otherwise this shocking price would leave him short of breath and in danger of suffocating!


    ¡°Ah, Shopkeeper, it¡¯s not fair to say that. Far from mugging you, I¡¯m actually losing money! Think about it, a jin of soybeans can produce three jin of tofu. With such quality, it should only cost 200 wen per jin.¡±


    ¡°The tofu pudding that you just had, priced at 200 wen per jin, would the rich folk say it¡¯s expensive? Even you, though might have to grit your teeth and stamp your feet, wouldn¡¯t you be willing to buy a bowl from time to time?¡±


    Shopkeeper He ¡°¡­¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai always had a knack for breaking down scary numbers into smaller figures he could ept.<div>


    This skill surpasses even those well-educateddies of high society!


    ¡°And my sweet potatoes, I simply processed them a little, took some time, and I could sell each jin for an additional 50 wen. Do I really care about a bit of time? I definitely do not.¡±


    ¡°This is all because we have known each other for a long time and cooperated numerous times, which is why I¡¯m willing to sell to you at a loss of 50 wen. If Shopkeeper Zhou from Zuixian Building came over, I wouldn¡¯t sell him a jin of sweet potatoes.¡±


    ¡°And the sesame seeds, the oil produced from these seeds attracts people to stand in front of the oil shop for a long while. If this oil is added to the dishes, won¡¯t it draw people to stay at your establishment?¡±


    ¡°So, am I asking for too much at 500 wen? Am I?¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai leaned over with a smile, and in a corner where Qiao Changshun couldn¡¯t see, she winked at Shopkeeper He. ¡°This is truly a special price for you considering our good rtionship. There is no other ce you could find these things, except for the royal family.¡±


    ¡°The amount of silver you can make from these things will certainly exceed the cost of buying them.¡±


    On receiving Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s hint, Shopkeeper He ¡°¡­¡±


    Listening to her analysis, it does seem like his establishment is getting a great bargain.


    He¡¯s notpletely sure about the exact amount of profit he can make from the soybeans and sesame seeds, but he definitely profits from the sweet potatoes.


    Sweet potatoes can be stored until springtime. If Qiao Xiaomai takes her time and dries the sweet potatoes, then hundreds of thousands of jin of sweet potatoes won¡¯t be a problem to sell.


    Especially during winter, time spent leisurely making dried sweet potatoes is actually a very profitable and easy business.


    Selling them at 250 wen per jin now is indeed a loss of 50 wen.


    However¡­


    The price truly sounds like robbery!


    In his more than ten years in business, he¡¯s never encountered such a master at making money!


    Impressive!


    ¡°Alright then, we¡¯ll go with the prices Miss Qiao mentioned.¡± He finally opened his mouth.


    Seeing as Qiao Xiaomai had already offered the ¡®friendship price¡¯, she indeed saw his establishment as her own.


    The young master of his establishment marrying such a woman is indeed something to be admired!


    [The Tong Family is not allowed to be in contact with the establishment, so Qiao Xiaomai and Shopkeeper He are doing business in a fair and transparent manner~]

 Chapter 654: The Astonishing Sweet Potato

    Chapter 654: Chapter 654: The Astonishing Sweet Potato


    Leaving the manor, Qiao Xiaomai ran to the sweet potato field with a small shovel and dug up a few sweet potatoes.


    The sweet potatoes could be harvested in half a month, but she dug them up now to test the taste.


    After watering this one hundred and thirty acres of crops with so much spiritual spring water, she had high hopes for them.


    Especially after realizing that she was running low on money, most of her hopes were pinned on these crops.


    There were also soybeans, which were not ripe at this moment. Both pods and beans were green,monly known as edamame. Qiao Xiaomai also picked some.


    She brought these two things home, washed the sweet potatoes, peeled them with a knife, and ate them raw.


    The sweet potato flesh was white, crispy, sweet and very juicy.


    With one bite of sweet potato swallowed, Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s peach blossom eyes lit up, and her anxious heart was put at ease.


    With these sweet potatoes, she could make a fortune!


    ¡°Mother, Dami, try these sweet potatoes,¡± Qiao Xiaomai said, cutting the sweet potatoes into small pieces, serving them on a te, and bringing it to them under the willow tree.


    @@novelbin@@


    Zhuang L¨¹he was sewing clothes, and Qiao Dami was writing with a brush.


    Hearing Qiao Xiaomai, Zhuang L¨¹he put down her needle and thread, and directly pinched a piece off with her hand.


    Qiao Dami, however, didn¡¯t even look up. ¡°I don¡¯t want to eat,¡± he said.


    With the improved living conditions, not wanting for food or clothes, Qiao Dami finally acquired a habit that made Qiao Xiaomai both relieved and irritated: picky eating.


    Having tasted all kinds of delicious food, the raw sweet potato in front of him didn¡¯t pique his interest at all.


    Seeing this, Qiao Xiaomai directly squeezed a piece and brought it to his mouth, ¡°Have a bite. It¡¯s really sweet.¡±


    By this time, Zhuang L¨¹he had already swallowed the sweet potato in her mouth, and she nodded, ¡°Delicious, Dami, you should try it.¡±


    Only then did Qiao Dami open his mouth and ate the piece of sweet potato.


    He chewed happily with his small teeth, the sweet juice filled his mouth, and Qiao Dami¡¯s eyes lit up, ¡°Delicious!¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai chuckled and squeezed his little face, ¡°Let¡¯s make sweet potato porridge tonight.¡±


    When ites to ways of eating sweet potatoes, there are, indeed, a variety of them.


    Not to mention cold jelly noodles which are processed foods; as for unprocessed sweet potatoes, you could make sweet potato porridge, roasted sweet potato, or steamed sweet potato.


    The highest level of sweet potato porridge is to boil the sweet potatoes into a mash. The porridge, so sweet and coarse, is incredibly tasty.


    As for roasted sweet potato, it goes without saying. In future winters, streets are full of roasted sweet potatoes; eating a steaming hot roasted sweet potato in the biting cold is the ultimatefort.


    Then there¡¯s the steamed sweet potato, just wash the sweet potato, steam it in a pot, add some water, and when it¡¯s cooked, just peel and eat. The center of the sweet potato turns into sugar, creating a candied effect.


    It tastes great when hot, but it¡¯s just as good if not better when cooled down.


    In an instant, several ways of eating sweet potatoes popped up in Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s mind, and all of them seemed profitable.


    At night, she made sweet potato porridge. As she expected, the sweet potato turned into a mash, sweet enough to be without added sugar.


    She also boiled the edamame, sprinkled a little salt, and the taste was excellent.


    Qiao Changshun was surprised, ¡°Why does it taste so good?¡±


    ¡°Maybe the feng shui of that plot ofnd is good.¡± Qiao Xiaomai attributed it to this elusive reason ¨C Qiao Changshun was easy to fool anyway.


    Just as she expected, upon hearing this, Qiao Changshun nodded in agreement, ¡°It must be so, the sweet potatoes and soybeans I nted before did not taste like this.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai smiled upon hearing this, it was easy to keep a simpleton happy.

 Chapter 655: 655: Five Spice Edamame

    Chapter 655: Chapter 655: Five Spice Edamame


    The next day, Qiao Xiaomai went to the cksmith shop in town and ordered a roasting oven.


    Her previous oven had been taken by the Emperor Emeritus, so she had to order a new one if she wanted to use one now.


    Then she visited the grocery store where she had ordered bowls and dishes before. Her customized dishes were ready, and they indeed had images of cute chubby blue characters on them. Of course, there were also images of wheat spikes, which were exclusively for Yu Tong.@@novelbin@@


    She had already paid a deposit of twenty taels of silver, and now she handed over another eighty taels. Another banknote was gone.


    Qiao Xiaomai loaded the dishes onto the ox cart, and thinking about the banknotes in her dimensional space, she drove the ox cart to the Extreme vor Residence.


    ¡°Shopkeeper He, it¡¯s been a long time!¡± Upon seeing Shopkeeper He, she greeted him warmly with a beaming smile.


    Shopkeeper He responded with an equally enthusiastic smile. The youngdy in front of him was the maid of his superior¡¯s household, ¡°Miss Qiao, what would you like to eat this time?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not here to eat, I¡¯m wondering if you guys buy edamame?¡± Qiao Xiaomai asked.


    It will still be half a month before the sweet potatoes are ready for the most suitable harvest. Selling them now would be somewhat hasty.


    However, she was low on banknotes in her space, so she could only sell edamame now.<div>


    And she couldn¡¯t sell much of the edamame either. She had only nted fifty acres of soybeans, and she nned to use them to make tofu and bean curd. After her rough processing, she was determined to double the price.


    ¡°Edamame? Ok,¡± Shopkeeper He responded with a nod.


    Edamame is a vegetable and often used in cooking this season. The Extreme vor Residence also grew their own.


    But now, with Qiao Xiaomai herself asking if Extreme vor Residence was buying, there could only be one answer: Yes!


    ¡°How much per pound?¡±


    ¡°The market price is two wen per pound.¡± Mature soybeans were three wen per pound. Edamame had more water content and given the abundant vegetables now, so the price was slightly lower than dry soybeans.


    ¡°My edamame is of superior quality.¡± Qiao Xiaomai said.


    ¡°Uh¡­How about four wen per pound?¡± Shopkeeper He proposed, waving his four fingers.


    Qiao Xiaomai ¡°¡­¡±


    Shopkeeper He was also innocent. Isn¡¯t it just edamame? It¡¯s everywhere, every farming family is nting, does she want to sell at the price of meat?


    After thinking about it, he proposed, ¡°How about six wen per pound?¡±


    The price was almost catching up with the price of chicken.


    ¡°Never mind.¡± Seeing this, Qiao Xiaomai waved her hand dismissively.


    Selling raw materials really was worthless.


    Even if it¡¯s six wen per pound, if she sold a thousand pounds, it would only make six taels of silver.


    Considering her spending rate, these six taels of silver would not be enough for her one meal.


    ¡°Let¡¯s do this ¨C I will boil the edamame and make it into five-spice edamame and send them over. You can see how much you can sell a te for, just like selling Tofu and Bean Curd before.¡± After some thought, she suggested.


    ¡°Deal.¡± Upon hearing her words, Shopkeeper He nodded repeatedly.


    Whenever Qiao Xiaomai made something, doubling the price was not an issue.<div>


    So, Qiao Xiaomai left the Extreme vor Residence and returned to the vige. When she reached a deserted spot on the road, she put the dishes into her dimensional space. Then she drove the ox cart to the manor. She asked Miao Dali for a shovel and shoveled up a cart of soybean stalks.


    After returning home, she and Zhuang L¨¹he picked the bean pods and left the stalks out in the doorway to dry. Once dried, they would be used as firewood.


    A cartful of soybean stalks yielded one hundred and twenty pounds of bean pods.


    They cleaned the bean pods and boiled them in two pots at the same time.<div>


    The beans had been irrigated with water from the Spiritual Spring earlier. Now, they were being boiled with the same water and seasoned with Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s recipe, making them especially fragrant, soft, and delicious.

 Chapter 723: Beating around the Bush and Making Trouble

    Chapter 723: Chapter 723: Beating around the Bush and Making Trouble


    Soon, a delicate breakfast was served.


    Yang Ye said, ¡°I went to the pce this morning and had breakfast with Grandpa Emperor. Third brother, you eat by yourself.¡±


    ¡°Eh, what did you do looking for Grandpa Emperor this morning?¡± Yang Wang asked.


    ¡°Just some idle chatter, you know me, always making up something when a thought strikes me.¡± Yang Ye said with a casual smile.


    ¡°Hey, that¡¯s not true. Who said you have no real business? Aren¡¯t you revising the ¡®Daqi Laws¡¯ under themand of our father emperor?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s not urgent.¡± Yang Ye leaned back in his chair and asked, ¡°Third brother, did youe to my residence for some business?¡±


    ¡°There is a small matter.¡± Yang Wang¡¯s face indicated hesitation as he put down his chopsticks and asked, ¡°How do you n to revise the ¡®Daqi Laws¡¯?¡±


    ¡°I will refine the rough parts and fill in the areas that were previously overlooked.¡± Yang Ye responded sinctly.


    ¡°I see.¡± Yang Wang nodded. ¡°Actually, I have a matter on which I can¡¯t make up my mind. I want to ask for your advice.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s the matter?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s like this. A while ago, I spent some time in a military camp and got to know a few soldiers. There¡¯s one foot soldier who loves his wife dearly, but she resents him for not being home often and for his capability. A few days ago, she eloped with another man with all the property at home.¡±


    ¡°However, the wife soon returned because the man she eloped with turned out to be a trickster and almost sold her off.¡±


    At this point, Yang Wang paused and looked at Yang Ye.


    Yang Ye nodded, ¡°And then?¡±


    ¡°Then this little soldier took her back without holding a grudge. But the soldier¡¯srades feel wronged. A woman who has eloped with another manes back and lives her life as if nothing wrong had beenmitted, as if there¡¯s no moral justice.¡±@@novelbin@@


    ¡°So they came to me and asked if I could sentence this woman. When I looked up the ¡®Daqi Laws¡¯, I found no rted provisions, so I came to ask you.¡±


    ¡°Look, clearly, this woman ditches the poor for the rich and is fickle-hearted, but just because the soldier loves her, her elopement is being brushed aside. But wrong is wrong, if we let the first time slide, maybe this woman will elope again in the future.¡±


    ¡°Plus, it sets a bad precedent. Imagine if other women take a cue from this, our Daqi would be in total chaos, wouldn¡¯t it?¡±


    ¡°She must be punished severely!¡±


    Yang Ye ¡°¡­.¡±


    He furrowed his eyebrows and said, ¡°This rule was expressly abolished by Grandpa Emperor when he established the ¡®Daqi Laws¡¯. I dare not add anything he abolished.¡±


    ¡°But wrong is wrong.¡±


    ¡°Yes, eloping with someone is wrong indeed. But the affairs between a husband and wife are like two people willing to fight and endure together, and others advising them is mere interfering. If anything is done to the wife, it¡¯s the soldier who will suffer in the end.¡±


    ¡°But this sets such a bad precedent! In the future, those married women, if any of them are dissatisfied, they might think of eloping, what then?¡± Yang Wang¡¯s face wore a darkened expression.


    Yang Ye smiled, ¡°But not every man is like that foot soldier.¡±


    This matter was tooplex. If a rigid rule was put in ce stipting actions, then someone like Zhuang L¨¹he would definitelymit suicide.


    Yet, the woman Yang Wang described was indeed hateful.


    However, Yang Wenxiao himself had abolished the previous dynasty¡¯s punishment for elopement. Adding that rule again would be like inviting trouble for himself.


    Besides, Yang Wang¡¯s motive didn¡¯t seem entirely pure.


    Could this story have been made up just to put Zhuang L¨¹he in a difficult situation?

 Chapter 657: Ancient Express Delivery

    Chapter 657: Chapter 657: Ancient Express Delivery


    ¡°I just need to make a few trips to the forest and my coin pouch will be bulging.¡±,¡±


    ¡°Enough. I¡¯m responsible for making money for our household, and you¡¯re responsible for your looks¡­¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m responsible for passing the Imperial Examination.¡± Tong Sang interrupted her.


    He couldn¡¯t handle the phrase ¡®handsome as a flower¡¯.


    Qiao Xiaomaiughed, ¡°Well, then you better study hard. There¡¯s no urgency for the money at the moment. We can deal with it once you¡¯ve passed the exam.¡±


    If he passes the township examination, he¡¯d be a student eligible to take the Imperial Examinations. The next step would be the prefecture level examinations in the Prefecture City. If he passes that, he¡¯d be a candidate for the spring examination in the Capital City, also known as the so-called Spring Pce Examinations.


    This series of examinations are quite a handful. While Tong Sang¡¯s abilities have been praised by the Academy Director and the retired emperor, actualpetence is always confirmed through examinations, so it¡¯s best not to let such mundane matters distract him.¡±


    ¡°Actually, I enjoy the process of earning money. If you suddenly handed me a big pile of banknotes, I wouldn¡¯t be motivated at all.¡±


    When she lived in the future, she could pass the time watching television, watching movies, or ying on theputer. In that age of information explosion, there were always new things happening.


    But what about here?


    Even going to Linzhang Vige tosh out at Zhan Jin is difficult to aplish. It¡¯s so isted!


    It was all right when Tong Sang could apany her, but now that he¡¯s engrossed in his studies every day, she¡¯s left alone with nothing to do.


    It¡¯d be better to find something to do.


    Right now, she prefers to focus on the process.


    The following day, after breakfast, she took a spade and drove a cart down to the fields. She shoveled a cartful of soybean stalks, picked and cooked them, and then delivered them to J¨¬w¨¨i Residence, just in time for mealtime.


    This time, she didn¡¯t sell it all to J¨¬w¨¨i Residence. She kept about forty pounds and delivered it to Bailu Academy.


    Lately, when she had nothing to do, she¡¯d muse over Yang Ye¡¯s revision of the ¡°Daqi Law¡± and the situation in Linzhang Vige.


    The people of Linzhang Vige consisted only of durds. It wasn¡¯t anything like the viges under the jurisdiction of Bailu Town. The Academy Director Gu single-handedly suppressed all the bad elements.


    Even throughout the entirety of Huai¡¯an County, the county magistrate¡¯s duty was so easy that Yang Ye couldn¡¯t find a challenging case even if he wanted to.


    This was all thanks to Director Gu.


    The people living in Bailu Town were unbelievably fortunate!


    Moreover, in addition to Director Gu, Yang Ye had also left a guard, a man surnamed Yang, from his own household. She was instructed to bring some tasty food to him from time to time. Although the edamame was cheap, she felt that after she¡¯d processed it, it was good to share some with this Xiaoyang guard.


    Director Gu was pleased with her visit. He¡¯d tried the edamame the previous night and found it to be very toothsome.


    The Xiaoyang guard tasted it, immediately left, and quickly returned with arge block of ice. He carved a hole into the ice, ced the clean food container filled with edamame into it, then stuffed back the shards from the hole.


    After this task waspleted, he retrieved an exquisite, thickly padded brocade that was extremely well-sealed, used it to wrap up therge ice block, which worked simrly to how cotton wraps were used to prevent Popsicles from melting in the future.


    Finally, he shoved the ice block into arge crate and loaded it onto the carriage. Xiaoyang then headed for the postal station.


    There was a small postal station in Bailu Town, mainly responsible formunicating messages between the Imperial City and Bailu Town. He handed the crate to the postal worker to be dispatched at top speed. Yang Ye would receive it by tomorrow evening.


    Qiao Xiaomai watched, gobsmacked, as Xiaoyang the guard went through this series of packing processes, clicking her tongue and couldn¡¯t help but marvel. This was like ancient Shunfeng Express!


    [The Imperial Examination system here is different from the historical one. I have modified it a bit, so my lovely readers, please don¡¯t pick on this~]@@novelbin@@

 Chapter 658: Participating in the Rural Examination

    Chapter 658: Chapter 658: Participating in the Rural Examination


    Thus, the days passed as Qiao Xiaomai spent them selling edamame, and before long, the provincial examination finally arrived.


    At this time, all the students from Bailu Academy who needed to take the provincial examination, apart from those from Huai¡¯an County, had left. The examination site was at the Prefectural Government Office in County Town, overseen by the County Magistrate himself.


    Tong Sang was to participate in the provincial examination, a matter of great importance. Tong Tiehu, Tong Xingda, and the Zhang Family all expressed their willingness to apany Tong Sang to County Town for the examination, but Tong Sang turned them all down.


    He only needed Qiao Xiaomai to apany him.


    Upon hearing this, Tong Tiehu said nothing, only nodded in understanding. However, Tong Xingda and the Zhang Family were gnashing their teeth in anger.


    Their dear son had been led away by Qiao Xiaomai into the Qiao Family.


    If they didn¡¯t do something soon to win him back, Tong Sang was likely to truly be a member of the Qiao Family!


    Rage building up in them, they knew they had to hold it in. For now, everything could wait until after Tong Sanng finished the provincial examination.


    As the examination was approaching, Qiao Xiaomai felt something akin to a parent sending their child off to the college entrance examination. She woke up before dawn and personally fried a pot full of Fried Dough Sticks, boiling two eggs as well.


    The examination papers here didn¡¯t use a percentage system, but she was still somewhat superstitious, sending Tong Sang off with blessings, following a custom from an alternate timeline.


    Tong Sang didn¡¯t say anything, quietly consuming all the Fried Dough Sticks and eggs.


    After the simple breakfast, Qiao Xiaomai took Tong Sang on an ox cart and set off for County Town.


    It took over an hour to travel from their vige to County Town. They left when it was still dark, and after a shaky journey, they arrived at the gates of the County Government Office, which was crowded with people.


    The ce was packed with families sending off their kin to the examination.


    Because of the presence of Bailu Academy, the academic atmosphere in Huai¡¯an County was strong, leading to a considerable number of students participating in the provincial examination. Everything in the County Government Office except the County Magistrate¡¯s seat had been moved away, reced with neatly arranged desks.


    Even the backyard of the County Government Office was filled with tables.


    The provincial examination was not as strict as the metropolitan or pce examinations; there were no separatepartments, and if any of the examinees finished early, they were allowed to submit their answers before the day was up.


    Qiao Xiaomai believed in Tong Sang¡¯s ability, but she still prepared a lunch box for him.


    ¡°Go, I¡¯ll wait for you here.¡± Qiao Xiaomai parked the ox cart at a corner of the street and patted Tong Sang¡¯s back, ¡°It¡¯s all up to today after the ten years of rigorous study; it¡¯s your time to shine!¡±


    Carrying his lunchbox, Tong Sang disembarked from the ox cart. He cracked a smile, his eyes brightening, reflecting Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s image, ¡°Watch me.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai looked at him, her arms raised above her head, making the shape of a heart with her fingers, ¡°Young man, your journey is to the stars and the sea!¡±


    This was the first time she had ever made this gesture. The words somehow excited him, and Tong Sang raised his eyebrows in surprise, before the smile on his handsome face broadened, ¡°Wait for the good news!¡±


    He wanted to make the same heart-shaped gesture in return, but his hands were busy carrying the lunchbox, and he didn¡¯t believe it was decent for a grown man to do so in public, hmmm¡­


    He¡¯d do it back at home after the exam!


    With the lunch box in hand, Tong Sang walked towards the entrance of the County Government Office.


    The officials were examining the candidates in line, checking to see if they had any cheat sheets in their lunch boxes or on their bodies. Qiao Xiaomai sat in the ox cart holding her umbre, watching this scene and silently started praying to all the gods and buddhas she could think of.


    @@novelbin@@


    Regardless of which god or buddha it was, as long as she could remember them at this time, she recited their names one by one.


    Tong Sang¡¯s attempt could only result in sess; failure was not an option.


    After finishing her silent prayers and seeing Tong Sang enter, she was just about to guide the ox cart to a shady spot when the corner of her eye caught sight of a few familiar figures.


    It was Sun Junyan, members of the Sun Family and Qiao Meipan.


    Sun Junyan was also taking the provincial examination. Sung Family and Qiao Meipan were there to send him off. However, Qiao Qinghe was nowhere to be seen.


    Qiao Qinghe was unable to ovee his inner struggles; therefore, he did not show up this time around.


    [His journey is one to the stars and the sea]

 Chapter 734: Her Mother is Lying in the Medical Clinic

    Chapter 734: Chapter 734: Her Mother is Lying in the Medical Clinic


    Qiao Xiaomai and Tong Sang rented a horse-drawn carriage. After five days of bumpy travel, they finally arrived in Bailu Town.


    The celebratory announcement from the government office was delivered by the post station and had arrived in Huai¡¯an County before them.


    The Huai¡¯an County Government Office had already sent someone to ry the news to Anping Vige. So, when the two of them arrived in Bailu Town, Tong Xingda and the Zhang family were waiting for them at the town entrance.


    As soon as she got off the carriage and saw the people she didn¡¯t want to see, Qiao Xiaomai crossed her arms, expressionless, and coldly watched Tong Xingda dash over. He pped Tong Sang¡¯s shoulder heartily, exuberantly praising him for bringing honor to his ancestors.


    Zhang¡¯s wife was also grinning from ear to ear, standing on the other side of Tong Sang, repeatedly calling out, ¡°my son, my good son¡±.


    Tong Sang was somewhat surprised, ¡°Father, Mother, why are you two here?¡±


    ¡°You passed the imperial examination! Your father and I came here to bring you home!¡± Zhang¡¯s wife said cheerfully.


    ¡°Exactly. The messengers from the county office came to announce the good news the day before yesterday. Your mother and I have been waiting for you here since yesterday.¡± Tong Xingda was still heavily patting Tong Sang¡¯s shoulder, hisughter vibrating the air, ¡°Your grandfather also wants to celebrate. Later we¡¯ll buy some liquor and food from Jimei Restaurant and head home, not stopping till we¡¯re drunk.¡±


    ¡°Sang, you go home. I¡¯ll find a bullock cart to get back.¡± Qiao Xiaomai spoke up when she saw this.


    She didn¡¯t recognize the Tong family and naturally wouldn¡¯t go and celebrate with Tong Sang.


    ¡°Shall we go home together?¡± Tong Sang furrowed his brow slightly.


    Couldn¡¯t they even share a carriage?


    ¡°What do you mean by going back together!¡± Zhang¡¯s wife misunderstood Sang¡¯s meaning. She thought he was inviting Qiao Xiaomai back to their new house. She immediately objected, ¡°She doesn¡¯t have the time to go home with us. Her mother, who ran away with a strange man, is lying in the medical clinic right now!¡±


    Huh?


    Qiao Xiaomai raised her eyebrows at the news.


    Tong Sang was startled and hurriedly asked, ¡°Mother, what happened?¡±


    ¡°What else? She¡¯s disgraced herself andmitted suicide out of shame!¡± Zhang¡¯s wife said with a hint of schadenfreude, looking excited. Qiao Xiaomai had been domineering for so long. It was about time she suffered!@@novelbin@@


    Seeing her delight in the situation, Qiao Xiaomai frowned slightly and turned to Tong Sang. ¡°I¡¯ll go to the medical clinic to see.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ming too.¡±


    ¡°Stand still!¡± Both Tong Xingda and Zhang¡¯s wife gripped an arm of Tong Sang each, not allowing him to follow. Zhang¡¯s wife even spat on the ground, ¡°You¡¯ve just be a schr, it¡¯s your time to shine. Don¡¯t let her bad luck affect you.¡±


    As Zhang¡¯s wife spoke, her face shifted from delight at the misfortune to dread, her tone full of regret, ¡°My dear son! What awful luck you¡¯ve had to end up with such a mother-inw. It was all my fault. I was bewitched and insisted you marry her!¡±


    ¡°Having such a mother-inw is a stain on your reputation!¡±


    Upon hearing this, Tong Sang furrowed his brows, yanked his arms from their grip, and moved to Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s side. ¡°Let¡¯s go together.¡±


    He knew he wouldn¡¯t get any information from Zhang¡¯s wife given her attitude.


    In that case, he would take Qiao Xiaomai to the medical clinic himself.


    ¡°Father, Mother, you two go back first with the luggage!¡±


    Having said that, he had already disappeared from sight, his arm wrapped around Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s waist.


    Zhang¡¯s wife was left dumbfounded. She stomped her foot, ¡°Such a fool! All that studying has made him stupid!¡±

 Chapter 736: The Arrogance of Aristocratic Nobles

    Chapter 736: Chapter 736: The Arrogance of Aristocratic Nobles


    ¡°What?!¡± Upon hearing Qiao Changshun¡¯s words, Qiao Xiaomai felt a slight sinking in her heart, ¡°The Sun Family said that the aristocrats in the capital were nning to cause trouble for our family?¡±


    ¡°Yes, she said that although our dried sweet potatoes taste good, they were only sold to those aristocrats once, and then there was nomunication. The reason she argued, was because these aristocrats havee to know about your mother¡¯s past and think she is tainted.¡±


    @@novelbin@@


    ¡°Has there been news from the young master Fan?¡± Qiao Xiaomai hurriedly asked.


    ¡°No, after you left, only Shopkeeper He came, seeing that your mother and I were no longer making dried sweet potatoes, he didn¡¯t ask again.¡±


    ¡°Wait, I¡¯ll ask Guard Xiaoyang.¡± Tong Sang had also noticed the seriousness of the matter.


    Perhaps, the words of the Sun Family were not merely nonsense.


    We have to ask around.


    As Tong Sang spoke these words, he had already flown out of the room, using his light skills to head towards the academy.


    He quickly found Guard Xiaoyang and started inquiring about the situation in the capital.


    Speaking of the matters in the capital, Guard Xiaoyang indeed knew a little bit.


    ¡°Miss Qiao is famous in the capital, the 500 pounds of dried sweet potatoes that young master Fan bought earlier received many good reviews. Therefore, those people nned to ask young master Fan to purchase more from Miss Qiao.¡±


    ¡°However, at this point, news started to spread that Miss Qiao¡¯s mother had once eloped with a wild man. This kind of background has tarnished the status of those aristocrats, hence the n to purchase more dried sweet potatoes was dropped.¡±


    ¡°Those aristocrats who have tasted the dried sweet potatoes, are they nning to trouble the Qiao Family?¡± Tong Sang hurriedly asked.


    ¡°Cause trouble for the Qiao Family? I doubt it. Miss Qiao has appeared before the retired emperor, both the prince and the retired emperor had tasted the dried sweet potatoes and didn¡¯t say anything about it, hence, those aristocrats wouldn¡¯t say anything on the surface.¡±


    The fact that both Yang Ye and the retired emperor enjoyed the dried sweet potatoes, yet these people insisted that the ones who made them were unclean, implying that they want to find Qiao Xiaomai for an exnation was unlikely.


    These people are not that foolish.


    Among those who have tasted the dried sweet potatoes delivered by Fan Jia, somee from noble families.


    The noble people pride themselves on their noble bloodline and look down on the Yang Family, with their humble background.


    If they despise the Yang Family, they would, even more, despise the Qiao Family.


    But with the military power possessed by the Yang Family, these noble people would not make a scene, they would only contemptuously criticize Yang Ye and the retired emperor¡¯s taste in private, while cursing Qiao Xiaomai heavily.


    After hearing this, the heavy stone in Tong Sang¡¯s heart rxed slightly.


    But it just eased a little.


    Qiao Xiaomai intends to be the inte celebrity of Daqi, and targets the market at the aristocrats in Capital City. Yet now, these aristocrats refuse to buy Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s goods anymore on the grounds that they despise Zhuang L¨¹he.


    In this way, the blueprint in Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s heart could not be drawn.


    These arrogant people from noble families¡­


    They really wanted to ruthlessly tread them underfoot.


    No wonder the retired emperor always wanted to eradicate them.


    They should be eradicated.


    Guard Xiaoyang noticed that Tong Sang looked upset, he immediately advised, ¡°You shouldn¡¯t take it to heart, if they don¡¯t eat, others will. As long as it tastes good, that¡¯s what matters.¡±


    ¡°Also, tofu and bean curd, cold jelly noodles, braised pork, and other dishes are all devised by Miss Qiao, those people still eat with relish. If they reject everything rted to Miss Qiao, I would admire them.¡±


    As a personal guard of Yang Ye, Guard Xiaoyang is well aware of the arrogance of the noble families in Capital City.

 Chapter 737: The Noble Person Who Slaps His Own Face

    Chapter 737: Chapter 737: The Noble Person Who ps His Own Face


    Upon hearing this, Tong Sang hastily asked, ¡°So you mean, while those people disdain the Dried Sweet Potatoes, others do not?¡±


    ¡°I haven¡¯t heard anyints. Weren¡¯t some Bean Sweet Potatoes and such purchased by Shopkeeper He from Miss Qiao a while back? He sent those items to some ces in the Capital City.¡±


    ¡°The Extreme Taste Residence in Capital City explicitly credited these goods to Miss Qiao, citing their scarcity as the reason for their high cost. They initiated a membership system where one must spend a certain amount of silver at Extreme Taste Residence to taste such delicacies.¡±


    ¡°In any case, it was the same as what the Extreme Taste Residence in Bailu Town did, profiting extravagantly from the crops of Miss Qiao.¡±


    ¡°Once this news got out, the business of Extreme Taste Residence boomed, robbing half of the Zuixian Building¡¯s customers.¡±


    At that time, Qiao Xiaomai and Tong Sang had also given some of these items to guard Xiaoyang, who was very satisfied. He bought a small Stone Mill of two chi, grinding soymilk for himself every morning, apanying it with a couple of Roasted Sweet Potatoes, along with a bowl of dried Xiaomi. His days were quite sumptuous.


    He was displeased at heart that the goods he loved so much were belittled by a group of so-called nobles.


    ¡°You know how these foods taste. Plus, the skill of Extreme Taste Residence¡¯s chef is exemry. The dishes they produce are delicious. These peoplepete to spend at Extreme Taste Residence, eager to obtain the privilege to taste these exquisite meals, no longer considering it beneath them.¡±


    Tong Sang ¡°¡­¡±


    Well, alright.


    Honestly speaking, Zhuang L¨¹he eloping with another man, even in Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s modern society, was rather disgraceful.


    Here, it was even more serious, a real stain.


    Those who knew the circumstances might sympathize with Zhuang L¨¹he and not care about the matter.


    But there were plenty who did not know the details. It was not unjustifiable for these people to disdain Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s foodstuff because of this incident.


    After all, everyone has different thresholds of tolerance.


    Everyone sees things differently.


    His earlier condemnation of the aristocrats was due to his anger.


    But on calm reflection, their actions could not be deemed entirely wrong.


    However, if while disdaining the Dried Sweet Potatoes, they rush to taste the Bean Sweet Potatoes and Xiaomi, their behavior was somewhat ridiculous.


    If they truly disdain it, they shouldpletely reject it. In that case, he wouldn¡¯t have anything to say.


    But now, only disdaining Dried Sweet Potatoes isn¡¯t this rather self-contradictory?


    Isn¡¯t this deliberately provocative?


    Seeing Tong Sang speechless, guard Xiaoyangforted him, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, your family¡¯s products won¡¯t be affected.¡±


    ¡°As for the Dried Sweet Potatoes, it¡¯s no big deal. Isn¡¯t Shopkeeper He supplying the other Extreme Taste Residences? Eventually, we can sell all to him. If some people don¡¯t want to eat them, so be it.¡±


    ¡°Besides, next year your family¡¯s produce will be a special supply. If they don¡¯t want to eat them, others will eagerly take their ce. Now that Daqi Country is prosperous and peaceful, there are plenty of rich people who can afford it.¡±


    Upon hearing these words, a smile graced Tong Sang¡¯s handsome face. ¡°Many thanks, guard Xiaoyang for dispelling my doubts.¡±


    ¡°Oh, please don¡¯t mention it, you¡¯re too kind.¡± Guard Xiaoyang waived his hand. It was just a bit of gossip, nothing important.


    If he really wanted to express his gratitude, he should send more Sweet Potatoes.


    He had already finished the ones sentst time.


    ¡°I won¡¯t disturb you any longer. After a few days, Xiaomai and I will deliver more Sweet Potatoes and Beans,¡± said Tong Sang.


    @@novelbin@@


    ¡°Oh, you¡¯re really too polite,¡± guard Xiaoyangughed.


    ¡°Oh yes, congrattions on obtaining the degree of Juren, Master Tong! In the future, you¡¯ll be a Juren Lord!¡±

 Chapter 661: 661: You Actually Turned in Your Paper Ahead of Time!

    Chapter 661: Chapter 661: You Actually Turned in Your Paper Ahead of Time!


    ¡°How did it go? How did it go?¡± Qiao Xiaomai asked, one question tumbling over the other.


    Tong Sang put his lunchbox on the ox cart and grinned, ¡°Dean Gu was supervising the examination. He was standing next to me the whole time. I handed in my papers to him after finishing. From his facial expression, he seemed to be quite satisfied.¡±


    ¡°Did he mark the papers then?¡±


    ¡°Yes, he takes care of all the exams in Huai¡¯an County. He picks the top ten, then sends them to the Capital City for the emperor¡¯s review. If the emperor finds no problem, the Imperial List can be issued.¡±


    ¡°No need to seal the exam papers?¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s no need to in Huai¡¯an County. The emperor trusts Dean Gu very much.¡±


    ¡°How wonderful,¡± Qiao Xiaomai remarked somewhat wistfully.


    Encountering Dean Gu was a stroke of luck indeed for the people of Bailu Town!


    ¡°Indeed, once the results are out, we should send some of our sweet potatoes to his house.¡± Tong Sang got on the cart, ¡°Let¡¯s get moving and find a ce to eat.¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s just go home,¡± Qiao Xiaomai suggested.<div>


    She finished the water in the bowl and then poured a bowl for Tong Sang. ¡°Take a drink.¡±


    Tong Sang downed the water in one gulp, flicked the whip in his hand, and the ox cart began to move.


    ¡°Did you sit the exam in the Main Hall or in the backyard?¡± Qiao Xiaomai started her barrage of questions.


    ¡°The backyard. There was a canvas covering the sun, but it was still hot underneath.¡±


    ¡°Did you see Sun Junyan?¡±


    ¡°I did. I even shot him a nce before I left. Judging by his expression, he seemed to be doing well in his exams.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai scoffed, ¡°With his constant scheming and wheeling and dealing, he actually managed to do well?¡±


    ¡°Who knows,¡± Tong Sang mused.


    Clearly, Sun Junyan¡¯s focus was no longer on studying. He¡¯s been thinking every day about how to hitch his wagon to a rising star. Surprisingly, he appeared to do well in the exam, demonstrating confidence and quick writing speed. Could they have misjudged him before?


    ¡°Hmm¡­ Maybe he is really smart? Or he just crammed at thest minute?¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai clicked her tongue in dissatisfaction.@@novelbin@@


    If a trash like Sun Junyan manages to pass the exam and bes a schr, it would certainly be a huge threat to society. Such a deeply calcting individual, if gaining a prestigious title or authority, would undoubtedly bring harm to society.


    ¡°Forget him, we can¡¯t control this,¡± Tong Sang changed the topic, ¡°In half a month, we¡¯ll wait for the notice.¡±


    ¡°Now that the exam is over, we shouldn¡¯t think about it anymore. Let¡¯s go home and get ready for the autumn harvest!¡± Tong Sang stretched and yawnedzily.


    Qiao Xiaomai holds high hopes for him. He has been diligently studying at his desk these past few days. At least he can rx a bit before the results are posted in half a month.


    ¡°Time to harvest the sweet potatoes!¡± Qiao Xiaomai smoothly changed the topic.


    She had already figured out what to do with those well-grown sweet potatoes.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go!¡± Tong Sang flicking his whip, the smile on his handsome face was broad and genuine, his ck eyes sparkling with brightness.


    On their return to the vige, they first paid a visit to the Tong Family.<div>


    Since Tong Sang¡¯s surname is Tong, naturally he should visit the Tong Family first and inform Tong Tiehu about the day¡¯s events.


    Qiao Xiaomai also apanied him. Ever since the families separated, this was her first time visiting the Tong¡¯s new house.


    The Tong¡¯s new house was just as it used to be. Because of Tong Sang¡¯s exam, everyone had stayed at home waiting for the news instead of going out to work.


    After Tong Sang described what happened, Zhu Hongyun immediately responded, ¡°You handed in your papers early? Sang, aren¡¯t you being too childish? The ones who have been studying in Bailu Academy for years diligently write their answers. Did you finish early because you didn¡¯t know how to answer?¡±<div>


    Upon hearing this, Zhang from the Zhang Family nodded worriedly, ¡°Exactly, Sang, did you finish it too quickly because you didn¡¯t understand the questions and thought they were simple?¡±

 Chapter 739: Dirty Laundry Should Not Be Aired in Public

    Chapter 739: Chapter 739: Dirty Laundry Should Not Be Aired in Public


    Looking for the Sun Family?


    Qiao Xiaomai shook her head, ¡°You should go back and celebrate with your family first.¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡± Tong Sang was perplexed, ¡°Aren¡¯t we going to find the Sun Family?¡±


    ¡°First, I¡¯m going to find my grandmother and ask her to confront the Sun Family.¡±


    @@novelbin@@


    She was deeply impressed by the time Hua Xiaofeng single-handedly fought the Sun Family while setting their straw hut on fire. Yes, Qiao Xiaomai wanted to grab a broom and m it hard on the Sun Family. However, the Sun Family would spill a slew of unpleasant words once attacked.


    Those nasty words were enough to push Zhuang L¨¹he to suicide, and Xiaomai wanted to avoid confrontation.


    So, she decided to leave this task to Hua Xiaofeng.


    Moreover, Qiao Changshun and Qiao Zhaodi were at the Medical Clinic, leaving only Qiao Dami and Qiao Yindi at the manor.


    She was worried.


    In the end, her own family was too small. She should ask Hua Xiaofeng to take care of Zhuang L¨¹he and defend her as an elder rtive.


    It would bepletely justified for Hua Xiaofeng to confront the Sun Family.


    ¡°By the way, father, how did Sang¡¯s parentse to know about this situation?¡± Qiao Xiaomai hurriedly asked when she remembered.


    Qiao Changshun and Zhuang L¨¹he were staying at the manor. How did the Zhang Familye to know about the Sun Family¡¯s raucous visit?


    ¡°Sang passed the imperial examination. Your grandfather came here to share the good news with me and your mother. Coincidentally, he came across the situation and chased away the Sun Family,¡± Qiao Changshun said gloomily.


    Qiao Xiaomai rolled her eyes at this, ¡°Why did you let the Sun Family spit out those ugly words? You should have had someone drive her away!¡±


    The engineering team consisted of robust men, surely they could handle the Sun Family?


    Qiao Changshun wringed his hands, his face full of resentment, ¡°I was pushing her away¡­¡±


    Family shame; he didn¡¯t want anyone else to know, so he didn¡¯t call anyone to help at that time.


    He made an attempt to drive away Sun Family, but beingme, he was pushed over. Qiao Zhaodi and Yindi did not sever ties with the Sun Family, so they did not dare to fight her. Their only action was to stand in front of Zhuang L¨¹he to protect her.


    Thus, the Sun Family continued to behave arrogantly and spew obscenities until Tong Tiehu came and drove her away, and only then did the incident end.


    No, it didn¡¯t end. The moment the Sun Family left, Zhuang L¨¹he attempted suicide.


    Sigh¡­


    Qiao Xiaomai ¡°¡­¡±


    She herself could hardly keep up with the shrew of the Sun Family, let alone a crippled Qiao Changshun.


    She took a deep breath, ¡°All right, you go and fetch grandmother and let here to take care of mother. There¡¯s still a lot of things to be done at home. You can¡¯t stay here all the time.¡±


    Qiao Changshunplied immediately, ¡°Yes, I¡¯ll be right on it.¡±


    Outside the door, Tong Xingda frowned as he listened to the conversation inside. As soon as he saw Qiao Changshune out, he scoffed, poked his head in and said, ¡°Sang, what are you waiting for? Didn¡¯t you hear her telling you to leave?¡±


    Even Qiao Xiaomai had told him to return to the Tong family, so what was he still doing standing here!


    ¡°No, I¡¯ll go backter. I¡¯ll go check on Dami first.¡± Tong Sang nced at Qiao Xiaomai, ¡°Should I bring Dami here?¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai gave a sound of assent.


    The Sun Family had been recklessly vitriolic. Qiao Dami was there at that time¡­


    Surely, his young mind must be shattered.


    She couldn¡¯t keep up the lie she had crafted for so long. It was bound to be discovered sooner orter.


    ¡°Fine, I¡¯ll be right back.¡± Saying this, Tong Sang turned and walked out the door.


    The manor was closer to the town. Since his parents¡¯ ox cart wasn¡¯t avable, he decided to use his light skills and left on foot.


    Leaving Tong Xingda stamping his feet in irritation.


    His son was really going to change hisst name!

 Chapter 663: 663: I Also Want to Sue the Tong Family

    Chapter 663: Chapter 663: I Also Want to Sue the Tong Family@@novelbin@@


    ¡°Get out of my way! It¡¯s not like you are exceptional because you have a bit of stinking money! What does she even amount to!¡± Tong Xingda was so angry that he attempted to shove Tong Sang aside.


    Tong Sang stood unflinching. He raised his long arm and firmly caught Tong Xingda¡¯s thrusting arms. His handsome face held a hint of suppressed anger. ¡°Father, calm yourself down!¡±


    ¡°You were the one who proposed the marriage along with grandfather. You knew our family situation, and you knew the Qiao Family¡¯s circumstances too. It was because grandfather helped her a few times that she gave up better options and married into our humble family in the name of ¡®redistributing good fortune.¡¯


    ¡°Her reason for marrying me was to repay the kindness of grandfather. Now that mom is in good health, her gratitude is fully repaid.¡±


    ¡°But, what did second sister-inw do to repay her after she taught her to prepare braised pork?¡±


    ¡°We initially agreed to divide the family after mom recovered. How did you and mom respond? You wanted her recipe, she gave it. You asked for her money, she gave it. So, what¡¯s the result?¡±


    ¡°The result is, mom used her of being indecent with other men, and you¡¯ve been treating her like a kitchen maid.¡±


    ¡°She chose to face hardships in our house to repay her gratitude rather than leading a good life, still you don¡¯t appreciate her and make her life difficult. Fine, you¡¯re not satisfied with her? Let¡¯s take it to court. Go ahead! Let¡¯s go to the County Government Office now, I won¡¯t stop you.¡±


    Tong Sang released Tong Xingda, leaving the threat hanging in the air, a severe look on his handsome face.


    By this time, Qiao Xiaomai had reached the courtyard entrance. Hearing this, she stopped, turned around, surveying everyone in the courtyard with a cold look. ¡°I wanted to live a better life after getting married, but my life as a wife turned out to be worse than before. If that¡¯s the case, I would rather stay single.¡±<div>


    ¡°I married into this family to repay a favor, and I have done that. All this constant arguing, the Tong Family exploiting their elder status to confiscate my dowry and forcing me to teach their secrets¡ªI n to press charges too.¡±


    ¡°Since the day is still young, let¡¯s all go to the County Town to file awsuit, and we¡¯ll see who wins.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s belief was that life after marriage should be better than when single. She wasn¡¯t a masochist. If her married life turned out to be worse than when she was single, there was no way she would agree to it.


    But now, she had fallen for Tong Sang.


    Tong Sang had a bunch of extremely outrageous rtives.


    For Tong Sang, she agreed to this marriage.


    For the sake of saving face for Tong Sang, she had been patient at first, showing respect to everyone.


    A sister-inw wanted her recipe. She gave it.


    Zhang Family wanted recipes. She provided several, even helped set up a stall at the entrance of Extremely Delicious Residence.


    She even gave sixteen hundred taels of silver.


    Within a few hundred miles, which wife would go to these lengths?


    These ingratitude people were still not satisfied, then don¡¯t me her for being blunt.


    They might as well get divorced then.


    As for what Tong Sang would choose, let him decide.


    After all, she had reached her tolerance limit, she wouldn¡¯t back down anymore.


    When Qiao Xiaomai finished, the whole courtyard was silent, including Tong Xingda, who was fuming and looked like he might explode.


    Lawsuit?


    How could Qiao Xiaomai, as a junior, impose her will and still have the audacity to threaten awsuit?


    Tong Xingda wanted to jump with frustration, muttering ¡°What, you think it¡¯s okay to be disrespectful and then im to be in the right?¡±<div>


    But his brain reacted faster than his impulse. Lawsuit? Looking at Qiao Xiaomai, he realized she didn¡¯t seem to be joking, so he couldn¡¯t help but re at Tong Sang.


    Did Tong Sang tell Qiao Xiaomai about Zhang Family faking illness?

 Chapter 664: 664: At Worst We Can Split Up

    Chapter 664: Chapter 664: At Worst We Can Split Up


    Staring down Tong Xingda¡¯s burning gaze, Tong Sang spoke expressionlessly, ¡°Since you all have your reason, and feel wronged and taken advantage of, then go to the County Town and file aint. The county magistrate will give you justice.¡±


    The moment Tong Sang¡¯s words fell, Tong Xingda¡¯s foot shot out, kicking towards his face, clearly indicating that he had already exposed the fraudulence of the marriage to Qiao Xiaomai!


    Marriage deception!


    Qiao Xiaomai had the support of Prince Wei, no wonder she could be so fearless and audacious!


    His father¡¯s palm swung at him, but Tong Sang stepped back just in time to avoid it, his expression unchanged as he looked at Tong Xingda, ¡°Dad, since both you and mom feel aggrieved, then go ahead and file theint. I support your decision.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m going to kick your ass, you little bastard, watch me beat you to death!¡±


    Tong Sang¡¯s words were like pouring oil on the fire for Tong Xingda. He had already unveiled the truth of the marriage deception to Qiao Xiaomai, why the hell would he still file aint.


    When Qiao Xiaomai revealed the truth, he would be the one unable to find a way out!


    Taking advantage of him and deliberately infuriating him, he deserved to die!


    ¡°Enough, stop it!¡± Hearing Tong Xingda¡¯s curse, Tong Tiehu couldn¡¯t help but darken his face. Tong Sang¡¯s grandfather was him, and Tong Xingda had included him in his insults.<div>


    ¡°Sang, put your father in his room!¡± Hemanded with a stern look.


    Such irrational behavior!


    Upon hearing this, Tong Sang immediately moved. He turned into a gust of wind, grabbed Tong Xingda¡¯s shoulder, and disappeared from the courtyard in an instant.


    He locked Tong Xingda in his room.


    Of course, Tong Xingda didn¡¯t give in, his vituperative shouting was so piercing that it threatened to prate people¡¯s eardrums. Tong Tiehu¡¯s face tightened, and he said, ¡°Sang, you and Xiaomai should go home first.¡±@@novelbin@@


    ¡°I think we should take Dad to town anyway, and have a thorough discussion with the county magistrate,¡± Qiao Xiaomai was still standing at the door, not moving.


    ¡°Today is the rural examination, the county magistrate doesn¡¯t have time to deal with such trivial matters.¡±


    ¡°Then, tomorrow. Since both Dad and Mom feel wronged, let the county magistrate give them justice,¡± Qiao Xiaomai insisted with a in face. ¡°I¡¯ve paid off the debt of gratitude. We¡¯re even. All I want is a peaceful married life. If it¡¯s not peaceful, don¡¯t me me for seeking a divorce.¡±


    Divorce!


    As soon as this word was thrown out, everyone present in the courtyard turned pale.


    Especially Zhang Family and Zhu Hongyun. A woman, after being married and bing second-hand goods, dared to initiate a divorce. It was truly shocking!


    Tong Tiehu deeply inhaled. It seemed Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s tolerance for his family had really reached its limit.


    No wonder. She wasn¡¯t from here, it was impossible to confine her with local thinking.


    Tong Sang pursed his lips but stayed silent. He walked over to Qiao Xiaomai, grabbed her arm, and left the courtyard.


    Qiao Xiaomai shook off his hand indifferently, ¡°What¡¯s with your long face?¡±


    She lowered her eyes and climbed on the ox cart.


    Upon seeing this, Tong Sang¡¯s lips receded into a thin line. He walked over, grabbed the cart reins, and silently guided the cart towards the old courtyard.


    The two were silent on the way. When they arrived at the old courtyard and Tong Sang closed the gate, his first words were, ¡°I hope that no matter what happens in the future, you won¡¯t mention the word ¡®divorce¡¯.¡±


    His expression and tone were filled with uncontroble distress.<div>


    ¡°I thought long and hard about marrying you so we could be happy together for a long time.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai was scooping water from the bucket to wash her hands. On hearing his words, she paused for a moment, then continued to scoop water into the wooden basin, replying, ¡°Hmm.¡±

 Chapter 743: You Move Back to the Old Courtyard

    Chapter 743: Chapter 743: You Move Back to the Old Courtyard


    ¡°I¡¯m back.¡± Tong Sang replied in a calm tone.


    ¡°Tired, aren¡¯t you? Come sit down and rest.¡± Li Rou walked over with Tong Xiaoxing and Tong Xiaoyue, her expression was very gentle, ¡°Darong, quickly serve the food.¡±


    The delicious food Tong Xingda had ordered from the J¨ªw¨¨i restaurant was waiting in the kitchen for Tong Sang.


    Tong Darong answered and moved the table to the courtyard next to the other table, creating arge one. Then he quickly served the food onto the tes and set the table.


    ¡°All sit down, all sit down, eat, eat.¡± He called out.


    The whole family gathered around, including Zhu Hongyun.


    Ever since Tong Sang and Qiao Xiaomai had nearly demolished her house in Zhu Vige, she had been left with quite a shock. Seeing Tong Sang now, she still felt timid.


    She chose to sit as far as possible from Tong Sang. As she saw Tong Eng wanting to get closer to Tong Sang, she hastily pulled him back, signaling him with her eyes to sit next to her.


    Tong Eng caught her eye signal and,ughing merrily, sat down next to her.


    With a sidelong nce, Tong Sang had a look at Zhu Hongyun and Tong Eng, and then at Zhang¡¯s family and Tong Xingda, sighing inwardly.


    At the moment of his sess in the imperial examination, these people had put aside their previous grievances.


    It was just as well they harbored no grudge, he just wanted to live a peaceful life.Upd@te by novg0.co


    Seeing Tong Darong pouring wine, a smile appeared on his face.


    ¡°Come on, let¡¯s the men have a drink.¡± Tong Xingda lifted his bowl and called out.


    Tong Sang picked up the bowl in front of him, clinked it against Tong Xingda¡¯s, Tong Tiehu¡¯s, and Tong Darong and Tong Eng¡¯s, then drained it all in one gulp.


    The spicy liquor slid down his throat and he put down his bowl, picked up his chopsticks and grabbed a bite of food.


    ¡°Sang, what are your ns for the future?¡± Seeing him put down his bowl, Zhang¡¯s family hurriedly passed him a piece of meat.


    ¡°Continue my studies in preparation for next year¡¯s pce examinations.¡±


    ¡°Now you¡¯re a schr, a different status, you need to pay attention to things you previously ignored.¡± Zhang¡¯s family refrained.


    ¡°Like what?¡± Tong Sang asked.


    ¡°For example, reputation.¡± Zhang¡¯s family put down her chopsticks and said, ¡°You¡¯re a schr. People from the nearby viges should address you as Schr Sir. With this status, how can you continue to live in the Qiao family¡¯s ce?¡±


    ¡°You are a Tong family member, the head of the Tong family, the face of the Tong family. If you live in the Qiao family, where would we put the face of our Tong family? You are not a son-inw to the Qiao family, you married a daughter of the Qiao family.¡±


    ¡°Isn¡¯t it because we are poor? It¡¯s morefortable living in the manor than in the old house.¡± Tong Sang replied.


    ¡°Not poor, we have money. If you want to livefortably, your mother and I will renovate the old house tomorrow, and make sure you are satisfied.¡± said Zhang¡¯s family eagerly.


    ¡°Is the money for renovating the houseing from the sixteen hundred taels that Xiaomai gave?¡± Tong Sang asked.


    @@novelbin@@


    ¡°I have savings, enough to renovate the house.¡± Zhang¡¯s family replied.


    Previously, she had taken out her savings to buy a gold hairpin for Qiao Xiaomai, but Qiao Xiaomai refused and returned the one hundred taels to her.


    One hundred taels is more than enough to renovate the house.


    Tong Sang¡¯s family name is Tong, and he is now a schr. Originally, the Tongs were a well-respected family in the vige. So, it doesn¡¯t look good for Tong Sang to be living in the barren farnd of the Qiao family.


    Absolutely not!


    First, they needed to bring Tong Sang back to the vige and have him stay in the old house.

 Chapter 745: My Surname is Not Tong to Begin With

    Chapter 745: Chapter 745: My Surname is Not Tong to Begin With


    ¡°Dad, since mom just said that I am the head of the Tong Family, then at the very least, I should have the freedom to decide where I live, shouldn¡¯t I?¡± Tong Sang stood up as he spoke, ¡°I am full now, you continue eating, I am going back . . .¡±


    Before he could finish his sentence, Tong Xingda interrupted him with a loud shout, ¡°I dare you to step out of this door today!¡±


    ¡°Your surname is Tong, you are a member of the Tong Family, you bear the name of the Tong Family, and you must live in the Tong Family!¡±


    Zhang Family was sitting nearby and quickly interjected, ¡°Sang, there were arguments in the past, but we are a family; there is no enmity between a mother and son thatsts overnight. When things have passed, they should be let go, right?¡±


    She deliberately softened her tone, in stark contrast to Tong Xingda¡¯s hardness.


    Compared to her previous abrasivemanding tone, she seemed like apletely different person now.


    @@novelbin@@


    Upon hearing this, Tong Sang turned his gaze to her, ¡°Indeed, there are no overnight feuds. In that case, let¡¯s peacefully end this matter today, and you and dad should not get angry.¡±


    ¡°And, a few dayster, after the autumn harvest, we should host a banquet and invite everyone in the vige over.¡±


    ¡°Our sweet potatoes should be harvested, right?¡± He looked at Tong Tiehu as he said this.


    Tong Tiehu grunted, ¡°We have already started harvesting.¡±


    ¡°Well, it¡¯s a lot of work for everyone. I am busy tomorrow and can¡¯te back. I will return the day after tomorrow to help harvest the sweet potatoes.¡±


    ¡°There is no need for that. Your father has hired workers with the money.¡± Tong Tiehu replied.


    The Tong Family¡¯s sweet potatoes were nted a monthter than others, so the harvest was also a monthter.


    They had just started harvesting a few days ago when they received the news that Tong Sang had passed the Imperial examination. As a result, Tong Xingda didn¡¯t want to work any longer and insisted on hiring people with the silver.


    Tong Tiehu couldn¡¯t stop him, so he just went along with it.


    Upon hearing this, Tong Sang immediately looked at Tong Xingda, ¡°Dad, since you are using the silver provided by Xiaomai, you might as well stop saying so much, I am leaving.¡±


    Saying that, he slowly walked toward the door.


    Tong Xingda was infuriated by his attitude, stomped his foot and chased after him, ¡°You ungrateful kid, if you dare to step out of this door today, you will no longer be a Tong! And don¡¯t think about returning in the future!¡±


    This statement might have some deterrent effect on the ipetent Tong Eng, but to Tong Sang, it went in one ear and out the other. ¡°We weren¡¯t Tongs from the beginning, we are Gu. We are descendants of Gu Y¨¹.¡±


    As he said this, Tong Sang had already reached the door.


    Casually, he untied the reins, mounted the horse, and loudly said, ¡°You guys enjoy your meal and celebrate freely, I am leaving!¡±


    Before his voice fell, he had already whipped the horse into motion.


    So when Tong Xingda chased him out, all he saw was the dust kicked up by the horse hooves.


    ¡°This unfilial son!¡± He was shaking with rage.


    Persuading Tong Sang to move back home was something they had been nning since when Tong Sang passed the schr exam.


    Now that Tong Sang passed the Imperial examination, it was ever more important to bring him back home.


    In the past, when he wanted to marry Qiao Xiaomai, it was defined as Xiaomai¡¯s marrying down.


    But now that Tong Sang had passed the examination, marrying him could be considered marrying up for Qiao Xiaomai!


    At present, the Tong Family¡¯s prestige far surpasses the Qiao Family. No matter how many influential people Qiao Xiaomai knows, in the end she is amoner, a vige girl.


    While Tong Sang has now truly set foot in the official circle.


    Back when the woman was strong and the man was weak, Tong Sang moved to the Qiao Family and it was bearable.


    But now that the man is strong and the woman is weak, she shoulde and serve her inws!


    All the humiliation he suffered because of Qiao Xiaomai, he wanted to make her pay it back one by one!


    Besides, staying with the unlucky and contemptible woman like Zhuang Luhe all day, is just not right with the blessing that the heavens have bestowed!


    Next spring, Tong Sang still has the pce examination to look forward to!

 Chapter 747: 747: Lets Go, Revenge

    Chapter 747: Chapter 747: Let¡¯s Go, Revenge


    Hua Xiaofeng had a belly full of anger for Qiao Changshun.


    She had seen cowards before, but never anyone as cowardly as him. Sun Family had driven Zhuang L¨¹he to suicide, yet Qiao Changshun maintained a maddening calm. What use was there in keeping such a husband?!


    ¡°We just got her back, look at how much she suffered! Then Sun Family came, and you didn¡¯t even attempt to stop them, just watched as she threw herself at the wall! Marrying you was the biggest mistake!¡±


    ¡°I did try to stop them, but I couldn¡¯t¡­.¡± Qiao Changshun exined in a weak voice.


    He tried to push away Sun Family but ended up being knocked down because of his weak legs.


    ¡°It¡¯s all because you¡¯re ipetent! She was originally a beautiful and pure girl, she married you to live a peaceful life. But look at what¡¯s happened! She even preferred the life at the Zhuang Family¡¯s vige!¡±


    Hua Xiaofeng was flustered and angry, and spat on Qiao Changshun¡¯s face.


    She was genuinely angry. After Zhuang L¨¹he returned, Qiao Changshun invited Hua Xiaofeng. When she arrived and saw Zhuang L¨¹he, even as a stepmother, she couldn¡¯t help but shed genuine tears.


    She instructed Qiao Changshun to take good care of Zhuang L¨¹he, and what was the result?


    He ended up letting Zhuang L¨¹he kill herself by hurling against a wall!


    Qiao Changshun sat on the chair, wishing he could bury his head under it, not uttering a word.


    Qiao Xiaomai sat next to him, cradling Qiao Dami, and also remained silent.


    Qiao Zhaodi sat on the side, half asleep.


    Upon seeing Tong Sang enter, Hua Xiaofeng immediately put on a weing face, ying the affectionate by calling him Sang.


    Tong Sang nodded in acknowledgement, greeted his grandma, and then turned to Qiao Xiaomai. ¡°Xiaomai, let¡¯s go.¡±


    Embracing Qiao Dami, Qiao Xiaomai stood up. ¡°Grandma, sorry for the inconvenience tonight. Sang and I will head back first ande over tomorrow morning.¡±


    ¡°Oh no, it¡¯s no inconvenience at all. I¡¯ll take good care of L¨¹he. You two should go back, you¡¯ve had a tough time these past few days,¡± Hua Xiaofeng quickly waved her hand.@@novelbin@@


    Qiao Xiaomai nodded, then boarded the ox cart with Tong Sang while holding Qiao Dami.


    It was inconvenient to ride a horse with Dami in her arms.


    By the time they arrived back at the manor, Qiao Dami had fallen asleep, and so had Qiao Yindi.


    But Qiao Yindi had heated up some water for them. Qiao Xiaomai and Tong Sang hadn¡¯t bathed for several days of travel. By the time they finished washing andid down, it was alreadyte at night.


    Qiao Xiaomai immediately fell asleep once she hit the bed. Tong Sang sighed quietly when he saw her slightly knitted brows.


    He reached out his arms to hold her tight, then quickly fell asleep himself.


    The next morning, they both woke up early. Tong Sang made a simple breakfast, had Qiao Yindi look after Qiao Dami, and went to the town with Qiao Xiaomai.


    Hua Xiaofeng, lively and vigorous, greeted them with a bright smile, looking like a chrysanthemum flower in full bloom.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go, it¡¯s time to take revenge on the Sun Family,¡± said Qiao Xiaomai.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go, let¡¯s go! I swear to tear her dirty mouth today!¡± Hua Xiaofeng was extraordinarily enthusiastic.


    ¡°Remember, we are taking revenge for my mother,¡± reminded Qiao Xiaomai.


    The ¡°Daqi Law¡± has clear regtions about beating others. Being too violent can lead to imprisonment. Hence, an ¡°official¡± excuse is needed. This way, even if it were brought to court, it could be treated as idental and unintended.


    For instance, if someone¡¯s arm or leg was broken in a fight and it was deliberate, imprisonment would be unavoidable.


    However, if it was idental,pensation of silver would suffice.


    It must be said that dealing with the Sun Family was really troublesome. Words were useless against them, so one can only resort to fighting.


    But even then, one had to tread carefully and not cross the line.

 Chapter 668: 668: The Top of the County Town

    Chapter 668: Chapter 668: The Top of the County Town


    Principal Gu appreciated Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s gesture of delivering food once again, beaming with approving delight like an elderly fairy in New Year¡¯s paintings.


    After tasting the dried sweet potatoes, he couldn¡¯t help but give Qiao Xiaomai a thumbs up. This girl was impressive; the food she brought was not only delicious but also suited his pte.


    Now that Bailu Town had a Qiao Xiaomai, he was one lucky man!


    On the day of the rural examination, he had already reviewed the papers and had them sent to the Capital City as a matter of urgency. Now, as he saw the look of curiosity on the faces of Xiaomai and Tong Sang, heughed and said, ¡°I ced Sang first. As for the rest, we must wait and see what His Majesty says.¡±


    However, the chances were high. After all, even the old emperor hadmended Tong Sang before.


    Upon hearing this, Xiaomai and Sang were overjoyed. Xiaomai started rubbing her hands together in excitement, a habit she had picked up from Qiao Changshun. ¡°Principal, t-thank you. Thank you so much!¡±


    ¡°You need not thank me. Sang did well on his paper; I simply made an honest judgement,¡± Principal Gu said, waving a humble hand. He then picked up another piece of dried sweet potato, merrily biting into it.


    ¡°His self-study efforts aremendable.¡±


    Unbeknownst to Principal Gu, he had made the same assumption as Zhang Family and others that Sang had been self-studying all these years.


    Qiao Xiaomai and Sang exchanged a nce, both of them smiling modestly.<div>


    Principal Gu continued, ¡°Keep studying when you get home. The Imperial List will be out in a few days; you should start preparing for the provincial examination.¡±


    Sang nodded in agreement.


    The provincial exam would be held in Prefecture City one month after the rural exam results. The schedule was quite tight.


    After offering Sang a few more words of advice, Principal Gu let them leave.


    They left Principal Gu¡¯s courtyard and went to find Xiaoyang, a guard left behind by Yang Ye.


    Xiaoyang tasted the dried sweet potatoes, and just likest time, he wanted to fetch a big piece of ice. Qiao Xiaomai quickly stopped him.


    These dried sweet potatoes could be stored in normal conditions; there was no need for freezing.


    Upon hearing this, Xiaoyang, without hesitation, took the 20-kilogram load of dried sweet potatoes to the post house¡ªQiao Xiaomai had gifted him 5 kilos.


    On her way back from the Academy, Qiao Xiaomai struggled to contain her excitement, her face aglow with joy. ¡°I feel like I just topped the hard-fought college entrance examination!¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s just a county level achievement, so you¡¯re merely the county topper,¡± Tong Sang said, ¡°Besides, the final decision lies with the Emperor. Principal Gu only provides advice.¡±


    At these words, Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s smile froze. Right, how did Emperor Yong¡¯an view the Tong family?


    But then the retired emperor didn¡¯t oppose Tong Sang sitting the Imperial Examination, which implies that the Yangs didn¡¯t object to the Tong family earning an official title, right?


    ¡°Let¡¯s not overthink it. We¡¯ll soon get the results anyway.¡± If Sang earned the title, it would be an added bonus. If not, life would continue as normal.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go to Jiwiju; I¡¯m going to make a fortune from these dried sweet potatoes.¡± Thinking of the delicious dried sweet potatoes, Qiao Xiaomai was once again excited.


    Sang smoothly changed the subject, ¡°It¡¯s a pity we only nted fifty acres this year.¡±


    The sweet potatoes had a high yield per acre, with one acre producing around 3,000 kilos. With this, the fifty-acre yield would amount to 150,000 kilos of sweet potatoes.


    150,000 kilos sounded like a lot, but when she considered the low price at which the raw material was sold, the figure didn¡¯t bring much joy.


    A delicacy like Buddha-jumps-over-the-wall-cost around 3,000 taels of silver!


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, there are plenty of rich people in Daqi. I¡¯ll sell at a high price,¡± Qiao Xiaomai reassured him, thumping her chest.@@novelbin@@<div>


    ¡°Are you really nning to sell them for 300 Wen per kilo?¡± Sang asked, surprised.


    [Note: I checked it out. Currently, sweet potatoes yield around 6,000 kilos per acre, but since the olden dayscked fertilisers etc., I¡¯ve halved the yield. Don¡¯t take this too seriously!]

 Chapter 752: 752 The Dog Owner Arrives

    Chapter 752: Chapter 752 The Dog Owner Arrives


    mes seemed to burst from his chest, as though wishing to incinerate him. His eyes were bloodshot as he dropped the bronze mirror, stumbling out once again.


    He had no time to look at the Sun Family matron, still pinned to the ground by Hua Xiaofeng, nor at Qiao Meipan, who was incapacitated by a kick from Tong Sang. He didn¡¯t even spare a nce at Tong Sang or Qiao Xiaomai.


    He quickly left the courtyard, heading to the doctor at the military camp.


    He couldn¡¯t disfigure his face. Absolutely not.


    He would be marrying ady from an aristocratic family in the future, he would be a government official, his face couldn¡¯t be ruined!


    As Sun Junyan struggled to escape, Qiao Xiaomai turned her gaze to Tong Sang.


    Tong Sang immediately followed him out.


    Upon seeing Sun Junyan heading to the military camp, Tong Sang turned back, ¡°He¡¯s probably going to seek medical help and lick his master¡¯s boots.¡±


    ¡°Then let¡¯s wait here for his master toe and argue for him.¡± Qiao Xiaomai looked at Hua Xiaofeng still jabbing at the matron and said, ¡°My mother still has a score to settle.¡±


    Hua Xiaofeng had only been focused on the insults shot at her by the Sun Family matron and had forgotten to mention Zhuang Luhe.


    Hearing Xiaomai¡¯s words, she changed her tune, ¡°You old hag! For daring to nder my daughter, I¡¯ll prick your mouth until it¡¯s ruined! I¡¯m getting her back for all those years of torment!¡±


    Upon thinking of this, Hua Xiaofeng pushed her anger forward.


    Although she was harsh with Zhuang Luhe, she only hurled verbal abuse. Luhe was always a flower in full bloom when in Anping vige.


    Upon arriving in Anping Vige, she was so abused by the Sun Family matron that she was like a rotten leaf trampled on in the vegetable market, and yet, the matron still dared to insult her.


    Why did Zhuang Luhe run away?


    Wasn¡¯t it all because of the Sun Family matron!


    Hua Xiaofeng felt an urge to stab her embroidery needle in the matron¡¯s face, but she held herself back, instead jabbing only at her back and buttocks.@@novelbin@@


    The needle did draw blood, that would be evidence.


    She wondered whether the matron would dare strip off her clothes in the public hall and reveal her numerous wounds to use her!


    The Sun family matron was no match for Hua Xiaofeng and had been seriously injured by Tong Sang at the outset. Therefore, she was pinned to the ground by Hua Xiaofeng and repeatedly jabbed with a needle.


    Over and over again, the intense pain made her struggle fiercely. However, Hua Xiaofeng was stronger and held her down.


    She felt herself bleeding from the back and buttocks. Oh God, why was she the unfortunate one today!


    Qiao Meipan, lying nearby, witnessed Hua Xiaofeng¡¯s fierce and brutal actions, and shivered in fear.


    This must be so painful..


    She had also seen the disfigured appearance of Sun Junyan when he ran out. If she stepped forward now, would her face also be ruined?


    No, no, no, she mustn¡¯t move.


    Her face was her biggest reliance.


    With that thought, she curled up into a ball, lying still on the ground and ying dead.


    This one-sided beating continued until the arrival of Cen Hong.


    Cen Hong got news from Sun Junyan in the military camp. He didn¡¯t bother to see him but immediately came to the courtyard with his light body skills.


    As per their n, the Sun Family matron would insult Zhuang Luhe first, Qiao Xiaomai would not be able to take it, and she would definitely retaliate.


    She would inevitably use force, and if the matron was hit, that would be the evidence!


    ¡°Stop!¡± Seeing Hua Xiaofeng hitting the Sun family matron on the ground, he descended from the roof and yelled in anger, reaching to grab Hua Xiaofeng.


    Tong Sang stood aside, watching. Without a second thought, he drew the soft sword from his waist and thrust it straight towards the hand of Cen Hong.

 Chapter 670: 670: All Wrapped Up

    Chapter 670: Chapter 670: All Wrapped Up


    Halfway through the meal, Shopkeeper He entered, carrying a small dish in his hands. Ten sweet potato fries were neatly aligned on the dish, and nothing else was serving as decoration. ¡°Master Fan, Miss Qiao Xiaomai has made some new dried sweet potatoes. You and your friends might like to give them a try.¡±


    ¡°Ten pieces, hoping you all achieve perfect sess and your futures shine bright!¡±


    The sweet potato fries made by Qiao Xiaomai were thick as a finger. They were neatly arranged on the dish, brown in color and coated with ayer of white sugar. In terms of appearance, they honestly looked so ordinary that one wouldn¡¯t give them a second nce.


    However, these sweet potato fries were handmade by Qiao Xiaomai.


    There wasn¡¯t a single person in the Bailu Academy who didn¡¯t know her.


    Because of this, everyone present showed signs of interest. Fan Jia, with his honest face, gave a small smile. ¡°Let¡¯s give it a try.¡±


    ¡°The taste is quite good, just that the appearance leaves much to be desired.¡± Shopkeeper He said,ughing as he ced the dish in the middle of the table.


    Everyone reached out to grab a piece. When they put the seemingly simple dried sweet potatoes into their mouths, their faces instantly showed expressions of satisfaction.


    The sweet potato fries were aromatic, tender yet chewy, and moderately sweet©¤even those who didn¡¯t have a sweet tooth would praise them.@@novelbin@@


    Fan Jia let out a chuckle, ¡°They are indeed quite good, what¡¯s the price?¡±<div>


    Although Shopkeeper He imed it was a gift, the rule at the restaurant was such that, when encountering delicious food, a sample would be offered for tasting. If found satisfactory, one could order more.


    ¡°This¡­¡± Shopkeeper He hesitated for a moment, finally saying, ¡°Miss Xiaomai has priced it at three hundred copper coins.¡±


    ¡°Three hundred copper coins?¡± Fan Jia raised an eyebrow.


    Shopkeeper He evidently felt embarrassed and gave an awkwardugh, ¡°The taste¡­is indeed worth the price, but the appearance¡­¡±


    For wealthy families, anything they ate had to be pleasing in color, aroma, and taste. The sweet potato fries didn¡¯t exactly look pleasing, regardless of his eloquence as a businessman.


    ¡°They taste wonderful.¡± Seeing Shopkeeper He¡¯s awkwardness, Fan Jiaughed, ¡°How many are there in total?¡±


    ¡°Ah?¡± Now it was Shopkeeper He¡¯s turn to be astonished.


    ¡°How many did Miss Xiaomai send over in total? I¡¯ll take all of it, as I will be returning to the Capital City in a few days. I want to take it back to let my grandfather try.¡±


    Last time, he wanted to send tofu pudding to the Capital City, but the n fell through.


    Although tofu pudding was now avable in the Capital City¡¯s restaurant and Zuixian Building, none of them was made by Qiao Xiaomai. The difference in taste was substantial.


    Since Xiaomai did not leave Bailu Town and his family was in the Capital City, whatever he could bring back, regardless of appearance, as long as the taste was good, it was worth it.


    His family also deserved to taste Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s cooking skills!


    Shopkeeper He was astounded that Fan Jia wanted to buy the whole lot. After a moment of shock, he hurriedly replied, ¡°One hundred pounds. But we already tasted some of it when it arrived, so it¡¯s a bit less than one hundred pounds now.¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s settle on one hundred pounds.¡± said Fan Jia, ¡°By the way, will Miss Xiaomai make more?¡±


    ¡°Yes, she¡¯s nted fifty acres of sweet potatoes this year. This is only the first batch.¡±


    ¡°In that case, it¡¯s settled.¡± Fan Jia turned to his college mates at the table, ¡°Since Miss Xiaomai will continue making it, I¡¯ll take this entire batch.¡±


    ¡°Take it, take it.¡± everyone agreed, fully aware of Fan Jia¡¯s preferences.


    ¡°Shopkeeper, please have it delivered straight to the Academy,¡±manded Fan Jia.


    Shopkeeper He agreed without hesitation.<div>


    As soon as he left the private room, he ordered the staff to pack the sack of sweet potato fries and send it to Fan Jia¡¯s courtyard.


    At three hundred coins per pound, one hundred pounds was equal to thirty thousand copper coins, or thirty taels of silver.


    Sweet potatoes sold for one coin for three pounds, yet after Qiao Xiaomai got her hands on them, they sold for three hundred coins per pound.


    The ability of the youngdy to make money was indeed formidable¡­<div>

 Chapter 671: 671: Increase Production

    Chapter 671: Chapter 671: Increase Production


    Thinking of this, Shopkeeper He quickly sent out Yuan Ding, asking him to go to Anping Vige to inform Qiao Xiaomai that the sweet potato bars were selling very well and they could continue making them.


    Fan Jia¡¯s situation was an exception, but recently, there have been schrs who have returned to their hometown to take part in the imperial examination, and these schrs could also consider these sweet potato bars as a special product of Bailu Town and take them home for a taste.


    Anyway, as Qiao Xiaomai had said, this product was specifically for the wealthy, with clear pricing and fair transactions, so there was no question of deception or conscience concerns.


    When Qiao Xiaomai and Tong Sang returned home and were continuing to wash sweet potatoes, Yuan Ding arrived.


    As soon as he mentioned what had happened with Fan Jia, Qiao Xiaomai immediately let him take away the fifty catties left from the morning.


    She had originally nned to take these fifty catties to the Qiao Family for their consumption, but considering how well the sales were going, it made more sense to give more to Shopkeeper He for expanding the market, and her family¡¯s consumption could be postponed.


    After Yuan Ding left, Qiao Xiaomai asked Tong Sang to use his light body skills to call Zhuang L¨¹he, Qiao Zhaodi, and Qiao Yindi over. She nned to have Zhuang L¨¹he and the two sisters help with washing and steaming the sweet potatoes.


    The location was just in the old courtyard of the Tong Family, which was too small.


    ¡°I think we should move it to the manor over there.¡± Tong Sang suggested.


    All the sweet potatoes were now stored in therge warehouse, and a fence had been built around the warehouse, with arge t area in front of it for drying grains.<div>


    Setting up a stove near therge warehouse for steaming sweet potatoes day and night, followed by drying them, would definitely be more efficient than doing this in the courtyards of the Qiao Family and Tong Family.


    A well had already been dug near the manor, making it an ideal ce to dry sweet potatoes.


    Besides, it didn¡¯t matter if others saw how the dried sweet potatoes were made, after all, no one else had such delicious sweet potatoes.


    After some thought, Qiao Xiaomai nodded in agreement.


    So, Qiao Xiaomai drove the ox cart to the manor with the help of Miao Dali, who had found two people to build the stove, while Tong Sang went to the mountain to cut the willow branches. The dried sweet potato bars needed woodens woven from willow sticks, so he needed to cut more.


    After giving instructions to Miao Dali, Qiao Xiaomai again drove the ox-cart back to the vige to transport all the branches cut by Tong Sang to the manor. Miao Dali led the engineering team there. People who came to work were also there. The group of people worked together and quickly made severalrge woodens.


    Since Miao Dali¡¯s engineering team had tents stationed nearby to guard the construction tools and also keep watch on the crops in the fields, Qiao Xiaomai and Tong Sang felt relieved to go home to sleep at night.


    The next day, both of them went to the Qiao Family¡¯s house for breakfast.


    After breakfast, Qiao Xiaomai, Tong Sang, Qiao Dami, Qiao Changsun, Qiao Zhaodi, Qiao Yindi, and even Zhuang L¨¹he, who hadn¡¯t left the house since she returned, all rode the ox cart towards the manor.


    Once they arrived, Tong Sang was in charge of fetching water, Zhuang L¨¹he, Qiao Zhaodi, and Qiao Yindi were in charge of washing the sweet potatoes, Qiao Xiaomai and Qiao Dami were responsible for steaming the sweet potatoes, and Qiao Changsun continued tomand those who came to work to harvest the soybeans and sesame seeds.


    The group was busy all day, and by the end, the ground in front of the warehouse waspletely covered with sweet potato bars.@@novelbin@@


    After everyone else went home, Qiao Xiaomai and Tong Sang slept in therge warehouse.


    The weather was still hot, so they could manage anyhow at night.


    With abundant sunshine, the dried sweet potatoes were ready in two days. After this batch was done, Qiao Xiaomai found clean hemp bags and packed them all into these bags. She and Tong Sang each drove an ox cart to the town to sell, while the rest continued to make dried sweet potatoes.


    ¡°Oh, you two are finally here.¡± Seeing the two of them, Shopkeeper Heughed like Maitreya Buddha and weed them.


    Qiao Xiaomai folded the umbre she had been holding overhead and then picked up a cattail fan to fan herself, ¡°Yes, Shopkeeper, we have made a thousand catties this time.¡±


    ¡°Excellent, excellent.¡± Shopkeeper He immediately hailed several assistants to move the sweet potato bars to the backyard.

 Chapter 757: 757: The Sun Family Faced a Serious Crime

    Chapter 757: Chapter 757: The Sun Family Faced a Serious Crime


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯m not that foolish. I will just drop a hint. Yang Ye is smart enough, he will understand.¡± Qiao Xiaomai quirked an eyebrow, a smug expression on her little face.


    Sun Family and Sun Junyan were always making trouble for her. This time, she would also give Sun Junyan a taste of his own medicine!


    Thinking of this, she patted Tong Sang¡¯s shoulder, saying, ¡°Good job, mate, your kick was great today!¡±


    He identally caused Sun Junyan¡¯s face to be disfigured. It was so cool.


    Tong Sang looked at her smiling face, the corners of his mouth curving up, ¡°Then, you think about what to write, and I will send a letter to Prince Wei immediately when Ie back.¡±


    ¡°Off you go, then.¡± Qiao Xiaomai waved her little hand.


    Recalling the sight of Lady Sun being immobilized on the ground after being pricked, she clicked her tongue a couple of times.@@novelbin@@


    What should she do?


    She wanted to visit Lady Sun¡¯s small broken courtyard again, she wanted to see firsthand what this kind of injury really looked like.


    This kind of miraculous technique, if missed this time, who knows when she would be able to see it again?


    Must say, acupuncture, it really is a miraculous technique.


    The embroidery needle pierced into the flesh would cause small beads of blood to rise but wouldn¡¯t continue to flow. However, if there were many pricks, the back would be a honeb, filled with beads of blood. The beads of blood blended together, staining the clothing. It was quite a shocking sight.


    Lady Sun was lying on the clinic bed, howling in pain, as a female doctor was removing her clothes.


    Qiao Meipan sat weakly on a side, ncing at the horrific sight of Lady Sun¡¯s back. She couldn¡¯t help feeling sick, her whole body covered in goosebumps.


    She rubbed her arms, resisting the urge to leave, only averting her gaze.


    Lady Sun¡¯s entire back and bottom were filled with crimson blood and needle marks. The doctor could only clean it bit by bit, then apply medicine and bandage it.


    Even when the needle marks on her body healed, there was still the injury on her face. Today, Tong Sang¡¯s p was too heavy. Not only was she dazed, but she also lost a few teeth. Here, there was no recement for teeth, so from now on, Lady Sun could only chew with her left teeth.


    Lady Sun indeed suffered greatly today.


    ¡°We must seek revenge! Must get it back!¡± She grinded her teeth and spoke with spite.


    ¡°If Cen¡¯s martial arts skills are so great, why not set that shitty manor on fire under the cover of darkness!¡±


    She was always making provocations, each time she came back from provoking, she suffered a huge loss, needed to rest on the bed for a month without moving.


    If Cen has the ability, then let him do it!


    After listening to her, Qiao Meipan hesitated a bit, ¡°With Tong Sang there, I¡¯m afraid it¡¯s not easy to start a fire?¡±


    Last time, during the spring tax handover at the vige entrance, Cen Hong couldn¡¯t get anything over Tong Sang.


    I hope Cen Hong wouldn¡¯t be caught by Tong Sang before the manor was set on fire. Perhaps Cen Hong will be demoted again¡­


    A general demoted to the rank of a county marshal, if he gets demoted again, I¡¯m afraid he might end up as a head instructor in the military camp?


    Thinking of these circumstances, Qiao Meipanforted, ¡°Mother, don¡¯t worry, brother five will surely avenge this injustice for you. Just wait, there will be follow-up actions soon.¡±


    Sun Junyan¡¯s own disfigurement would definitely not be swallowed silently.


    Upon hearing these words, Lady Sun snorted a few times, and then scolded, ¡°Go, make me some chicken soup.¡±


    Qiao Meipan stood up and hurried out of the room to the kitchen.


    Now, only her mother and her were at home. Sun Junyan was in the military camp, discussing matters with Cen Hong.

 Chapter 673: 673: Hypocrisy

    Chapter 673: Chapter 673: Hypocrisy


    Did Shopkeeper Zhou really not know Zhu Hongyun is her sister-inw?


    Heh, only a three-year-old child would believe that.


    Ever since she made herself known to the retired emperor, Shopkeeper Zhou has surely looked up about her ancestors and those of the Tong Family.


    Saying he doesn¡¯t know Zhu Hongyun, who¡¯s he trying to fool?


    Is it not that he wants to sneakily acquire the recipe for Braised Pork with fifty taels of silver?


    Moreover, they have been secretly experimenting with the Braised Chicken Feet she made before, trying to mimic its taste.


    From these incidents, it is clear that Shopkeeper Zhou¡¯s character is far worse than Shopkeeper He.


    She even asked Tong Sang, if Shopkeeper He refrained from copying her recipes because of his influence.


    Tong Sang nodded, agreeing it was partly his influence, but also due to He Zhanggui¡¯s sense of decency.@@novelbin@@


    Seeing Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s boundless potential, Shopkeeper He would never cross her unnecessarily.<div>


    Even though he is a merchant, he abides bymerce ethics, and wouldn¡¯t sneak up on Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s recipes.


    Tong Sang¡¯s answer pleased Qiao Xiaomai and indirectly confirmed her suspicion about Shopkeeper Zhou¡¯s poor character.


    If his character was shoddy, she wouldn¡¯t want to continue dealing with him.


    After all, now that she¡¯s married to Tong Sang, even though the retired emperor won¡¯t let the Tong Family meddle in the affairs of Jiwuju, half of Jiwuju still belongs to the Tong Family. Hence, she would only sell her Dried Sweet Potatoes at Jiwuju.


    ¡°Oh dear, Miss Qiao, why did you sign the agreement?¡± Upon hearing these three words, Shopkeeper Zhou immediately pped his thigh, acting as though she had been cheated by Shopkeeper He, ¡°Anything crafted by you could be sold out anywhere. You do not need to sign any agreement!¡±


    ¡°If you sold your product at our Zuixian Building, we would set a higher price, and you¡¯d earn more.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai just smiled upon hearing this, ¡°I¡¯m selling a pound of dried sweet potatoes for three hundred Wen. That¡¯s already enough for me.¡±


    ¡°Jiwuju sells it for 310 Wen per pound. The profit is not very high. Shopkeeper Zhou, with so many culinary delights in Zuixian Building, you shouldn¡¯t fuss over these ten Wen worth of dried sweet potatoes?¡±


    Shopkeeper Zhou was left speechless¡­


    Zuixian Building wouldn¡¯t miss a business that earns ten Wen per pound. But the fact that Qiao Xiaomai, a former Royal Chef to the retired Emperor, produces it and their business doesn¡¯t own it implies that they are inferior to Jiwuju!


    ¡°Could you spare some for my Zuixian Building?¡± Shopkeeper Zhou softened his voice, with an almost unnoticeable pleading look on his face and a submissive posture.


    Qiao Xiaomai shook her head, ¡°No. One must keep their word.¡±


    On hearing this, Shopkeeper Zhou sighed deeply, with a look of intense regret on his face, ¡°Alright then.¡±


    ¡°Miss Qiao, next time you have a great recipe, I hope you consider Zuixian Building first!¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai nodded, ¡°Alright.¡±


    ¡°Also, aboutst time, it was indeed a misunderstanding.¡± Shopkeeper Zhou emphasized once again as he was about to leave.


    Qiao Xiaomaiughed and chuckled, ¡°I know, I know. Don¡¯t worry, it doesn¡¯t bother me.¡±


    Hearing this, he finally ambled away with evident reluctance.


    His sizable figure soon disappeared into the crowd on the street.<div>


    Qiao Xiaomai got into the carriage and turned to Tong San, ¡°He always treats me like an idiot, assuming I¡¯m unaware of his misdeeds.¡±


    She detested such people.


    Hypocrites.


    <div>

 Chapter 761: 761: Crops Are Not Valuable

    Chapter 761: Chapter 761: Crops Are Not Valuable


    Emperor Yongan was also present when Yang Wenxiao spoke about Qiao Xiaomai. Upon hearing about it, he essentially agreed with the reason given by Yang Ye.


    Laws are sacred, but beyond thews, there is also humanity.


    After leaving Da¡¯an Pce, Emperor Yongan ordered someone to go to the Yan Residence and tell Yan Rong that as soon as he received the case files transferred by the local magistrate, he should immediately bring them to him.


    He wanted to discuss it in the Imperial Court.


    Yang Ye also became busy, investigating which eminent individuals within the Capital City were squeamish about the dried sweet potatoes from Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s home.


    This was not a secret. Since there were rumours, it was undoubtedly being spread by someone.


    Triggering a chain reaction, he quickly learned who they were.


    In total, there were five households, four of which were aristocratic families, and the other was a newly-rich individual who originated from the Imperial Examination.


    However, these five households were only of medium status in Capital City, not enough to cause any fear.


    Fan Jia¡¯s father, Fan De¡¯an, was a mid-level official close to the emperor but did not hold a high position, so the people he associated with were not the top elites.


    Now, things became easier. With the list in hand, Yang Ye approached Left Minister Yu Ang to convey his Grandpa Emperor¡¯s orders.


    By now, Yu Ang had alreadypletely allied himself with the Yang Family. If Yang Wenxiao instructed him to refuse entry to these five households, he would surelyply promptly.


    And so, he personally stood guard at the entrance of the restaurant.


    These five households were of high status, so only he, as the real owner behind the scenes, could personally step out to take charge.


    Even if it meant breaking the facade, so be it!


    Meanwhile, fifty members of the royal guard had arrived on the farm. Their mission was to protect thend that had be the Emperor¡¯s dedicated supply base.


    To Qiao Xiaomai, these fifty guards were people of status. However, as Miao Dali¡¯s engineering team had not yet finished building the guest houses, these noble individuals were temporarily amodated in tents.


    As soon as the guards arrived, they first pitched their tents before beginning their work ¨C they had to transport this year¡¯s tribute to the Capital City!


    The soybean yield was less than 20,000 jin. After selling 2,000 jin to Shopkeeper He, there were still more than 10,000 jin left.


    The guards purchased 5,000 jin at the rate of three coins per jin, totaling fifteen taels of silver.


    There were many sweet potatoes, and their price had slightly risen this year. The guards purchased 20,000 jin at the rate of one coin for two jin, totaling ten taels of silver.


    For sesame, the total output was 3,000 jin. Shopkeeper He bought 1,500 jin of it while the guards purchased 500 jin at the rate of four coins per jin, totaling two taels of silver.


    Several dozen horse carts carried away these 25,500 jin of crops. In the end, Qiao Xiaomai only received twenty-seven taels of silver.


    Twenty-seven taels.


    That day, she had managed to snag 4,450 taels from Shopkeeper He!


    Holding the lightweight silver in her hand, Qiao Xiaomai looked at Tong Sang, her face almost tearful. ¡°I feel like this ount has been wronged.¡±


    Agricultural produce really wasn¡¯t worth much¡­


    Thinking about the sweat and toil it took from nting to harvest, Qiao Xiaomai couldn¡¯t help but rub her chest.


    She felt sad and wanted to cry.


    Although she and Qiao Changshun hadn¡¯t actually done the fieldwork, she still fully appreciated thebor and sweat of the farmers.


    Furthermore, she spent hundreds of coins in wages every day.@@novelbin@@


    If she hadn¡¯t sold to Shopkeeper He at such a high price, she felt that she might be making a loss when she did the maths!


    Now, she was carrying a debt of 10,000 taels from Yang Ye and only one-tenth of the manor was built.


    The manor required continual investment. Furthermore, after the autumn harvest, it was time to nt the winter wheat. Both the seeds and thebor were ongoing expenses.


    Her standard of living had improved and naturally wouldn¡¯t decline. Her daily expenses were also pretty substantial.


    Next spring, she would be attending the pce exam in the Capital City. Afterwards, she would have to buy crayfish fry.


    All this spending¡­ How much silver would it take¡­


    [By the way, a recentndmark legal case involving contempt of a mother serves as a reference for this case, and a retrial was called.]

 Chapter 675: The Color of Mouse Droppings

    Chapter 675: Chapter 675: The Color of Mouse Droppings


    At this time, Qiao Xiaomai had finished reading the contents of the letter, her mouth twitching with suppressedughter.


    Yang Ye¡¯s letter was very short, only three sentences:


    ¡°Tastes good, but why does it look so ugly?¡±


    ¡°My mother said it looks like rat droppings, not testing a bite.¡±


    ¡°Quickly change its appearance!¡±


    Xiaoyang, the guard, stood by, nearly bursting intoughter when he heard the content of the letter read aloud.


    But he held back, deliberately putting on a stern face. ¡°Lady Qiao and Mr. Tong, please heed the prince¡¯s request and adjust the appearance if you can.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai ¡°¡­¡±


    How was she supposed to do that in this age without food colouring?


    Besides, all the sweet potatoes here were white, they did not have the red variety.


    The white sweet potatoes turned grayish-brown once they were steamed. It was impossible to get the golden-orange dried sweet potatoes popr inter times!


    ¡°¡­What if I can¡¯t change the color of the dried sweet potatoes?¡± Qiao Xiaomai asked slowly.


    Guard Xiaoyang hesitated, ¡°Then the prince will just have to endure his sweet potatoes looking like rat droppings.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai ¡°¡­¡±


    She too tried to suppress herughter.


    It was only an issue of appearance, but Yang Ye¡¯s words made it sound particrly unappetizing.


    However, thinking about how Yang Ye still requested for the ugly sweet potatoes to be sent to the Capital City left her speechless.


    He himself had called it like rat droppings yet he seemed to enjoy it.


    Yang Ye sure was a weird one.


    ¡°We¡¯ve run out for now. Wait three more days,¡± Qiao Xiaomai told Xiaoyang, the guard.


    ¡°Alright, but if possible, try to change the colour,¡± he replied, giving her a reminder.


    But Qiao Xiaomai knew this would only leave him disappointed.


    There was simply no way.


    On her way back to the vige, Qiao Xiaomai thought of those three sentences from Yang Ye¡¯s letter and couldn¡¯t help but chuckle.


    Imagining Yang Ye munching enthusiastically on the rat dung-colored dried sweet potatoes, sheughed and sped her chest.


    Well, she suddenly did not feel like eating it anymore.


    ¡°What if we tried colouring it with the juice of some fruit?¡± Tong Sang suggested.


    While Qiao Xiaomai was lost in thought, he seemed quite serious about solving this problem.


    Upon hearing this, Qiao Xiaomai asked, ¡°Which fruit?¡±


    ¡°Perhaps persimmons?¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai was silent for a moment, ¡°When you eat a persimmon, your entire hand gets covered in the juice. Don¡¯t you think it resembles diarrhea?¡±


    Tong Sang ¡°¡­¡±


    Imagining grayish-brown sweet potato strips soaked in yellow-orange persimmon juice was like¡­


    Stop there!


    There was a momentary stiffness on Tong Sang¡¯s handsome face. This image was too horrifying to contemte.


    ¡°We don¡¯t have time to change colours, just let Yang Ye eat his rat droppings-looking sweet potato strips!¡± Qiao Xiaomai said.


    @@novelbin@@


    Dried sweet potatoes made from the white variety were still eaten by many people even inter times. None of them felt it resembled rat droppings and found them delicious instead.


    Tong Sang was silent for a moment before responding, ¡°Okay.¡±


    Indeed, they were quite busy now.


    While drying sweet potatoes, he was always engrossed in intense studying.


    Getting the top rank in the small Huai¡¯an County meant nothing. The imperial examination was held in the Prefecture City, where all the schrs from the entire Prefecture gathered. He couldn¡¯t afford to be careless.


    Thus, amidst their individual busy schedules, Qiao Xiaomai and Tong Sang put Yang Ye¡¯s letter on the back-burner.


    Three dayster, Qiao Xiaomai took a hundred kilograms of sweet potato strips to Xiaoyang, the guard, and asked him to convey to Yang Ye that she could not change the color of the dried sweet potatoes, so he would have to try for himself.

 Chapter 676: Going to the Palace to Find Yang Wenxiao

    Chapter 676: Chapter 676: Going to the Pce to Find Yang Wenxiao


    It was the second evening when Yang Ye in the Capital City received these one hundred catties of sweet potato sticks.


    The packaging from Qiao Xiaomai was as usual ¨C simple. They were just ordinary hemp sacks, thoroughly wrapped inside and out, additionally enveloped in ayer of kraft paper on the outside.


    There wasn¡¯t anythingcking in terms of hygiene, but the appearance was too ugly.


    ¡°I must bring up this problem the next time I write to her,¡± Yang Ye muttered softly, picking up a pair of scissors to open the two hemp sacks himself.


    The brownish-grey sweet potato sticks coated in white sugar frosting were revealed.


    Thanks to the message passed on by guard Xiaoyang, he wasn¡¯t surprised by this colour.


    But despite not being surprised, this colour really was ugly¡­


    While silentlyining in his mind, he directly reached in, picked up a few sticks, and ced them in his mouth to chew. They were soft and glutinous, yet chewy, and even those with weak teeth could chew them. The sweetness was just right. Everything was just perfect.


    Except for this ugly-as-hell colour.


    He sighed lightly, Yang Ye finished off the few sticks he had pinched, asked servants to measure out ten catties, and divided this ten catties of dried sweet potatoes evenly into two food boxes. Then, carrying the food boxes, he headed into the pce.


    When thest batch of dried sweet potatoes were sent over, his mother happened to be at the Prince Wei Residence, and they were terribly scorned at. Hence, he did not have the courage to present them at the pce.


    But this time, Qiao Xiaomai has sent over such arge quantity all at once, which could not be finished in a short time, so he decided to deliver some to the pce. If Grandpa Emperor and Father Emperor also disliked them, he would then lug them back.


    He first visited the Da¡¯an Pce, where the Emperor Emeritus resided.


    Within the Da¡¯an Pce, Yang Wenxiao had nted a bed of Snapdragon Flowers. These were nted after he returned from Bailu Town and they had now sprouted; the tender seedlings grazing lightly in the breeze. When Yang Ye arrived, Yang Wenxiao was watering these Snapdragon Flowers with a dedicated watering can.


    ¡°Grandpa Emperor, I¡¯m here to see you!¡± Yang Ye sounded cheerful, his handsome face wreathed in smiles.


    Yang Wenxiao smiled upon hearing thement, ¡°I heard from Gao Lian that you¡¯re here to bring me some delicacies?¡±


    Yang Ye lifted the food box in his hand, ¡°Indeed, these are dried sweet potatoes made by Qiao Xiaomai. They taste pretty good, but the appearance is rather unattractive. So much so that when I first received them, I was reluctant to bring them to the pce.¡±


    ¡°Oh?¡± Interest piqued, Yang Wenxiao asked, ¡°What do they look like?¡±


    With the exception of the top-notch vour, Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s dishes were ordinary inparison to those from the Royal Chef. However, being able to perfect one of the attributes ¨C colour, aroma or taste, was quitemendable. With this in mind, he turned his gaze to the food box in Yang Ye¡¯s hand.


    At this point, Yang Ye passed one of the food boxes to a pce maid standing nearby, and then opened the other food box.


    The dried sweet potato sticks were revealed.


    @@novelbin@@


    From afar, they looked like a pile of greyish, nameless moldy stuff, covered in white fuzz.


    This was totally unexpected for Yang Wenxiao, his face concealed his surprise as he asked, ¡°These are dried sweet potatoes?¡±


    ¡°Yes, they don¡¯t look appealing, but they taste quite good.¡±


    Yang Wenxiao smiled and walked out from the bed of Snapdragon Flowers towards Yang Ye.


    Passing the watering can in his hand to Gao Lian, he stared closely at the dried sweet potatoes for a few moments.


    Only when he got closer did he realise that the whiteyer on the surface wasn¡¯t mold. A momentary sadness swept over him. Indeed, he had aged; his vision wasn¡¯t as sharp as before.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go. Let¡¯s go into the halls to give it a taste.¡± Concealing his mncholy, Yang Wenxiao strode towards the Main Hall of Da¡¯an Pce.


    Yang Ye quickly followed.

 Chapter 764: 764: Not Just An Ancestor, But Also A Disaster Star

    Chapter 764: Chapter 764: Not Just An Ancestor, But Also A Disaster Star


    Over a thousand characters, Qiao Xiaomai gritted her teeth, decisively made another cut in her arm and bled almost half a bowl.


    Tong Sang held her right hand, dipped it in blood, and wrote the letter of injustice in blood, word by word.


    After the letter was written, Dean Gu immediately took it and boarded his horse-drawn carriage, while Tong Sang carried a pale Qiao Xiaomai into their bullock cart.


    The vigers had to bear witness, and she, the person involved, had to be present.


    When they reached Anping Vige, Tong Sang made Qiao Xiaomai and Dean Gu wait at the marketce at the vige entrance, while he went to find Tong Tiehu at the new residence.


    It was just after lunchtime, and the vigers were ready to go to the fields with their tools to nt wheat.<div>


    The Tong Family was no exception, and they were also going to the field.


    Although Tong Xingda now had money to hire people for work, there still needed to be someone to supervise them.


    Seeing Tong Sang¡¯s return, the whole family was quite surprised, and of course, quite annoyed.


    After Tong Sang¡¯s sessful exam, he only sat at home for a while before disappearing, and his words towards Tong Xingda and the Zhang Family were very dismissive, which caused their anger to remain up to now.


    When Tong Sang entered the room, Tong Xingda shouted immediately, ¡°Who let you in? Get out!¡±


    ¡°I came to find Grandpa,¡± Tong Sang looked directly at Tong Tiehu, ¡°Grandpa, let¡¯s go to the vige entrance. Dean Gu is waiting there.¡±


    ¡°Dean Gu?¡± Tong Tiehu was surprised, ¡°What happened?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll exin on the way, let¡¯s go first.¡±


    ¡°Alright,¡± Tong Tiehu immediately said to Tong Xingda, ¡°You go to the field first, I wille soon.¡±


    ¡°Wait, what¡¯s going on?¡± Tong Xingda was unsatisfied and came over to ask.


    ¡°I¡¯ll exin on the way.¡± Tong Sang didn¡¯t want to say much to him, pulled Tong Tiehu, and went outside.


    ¡°Hey, you little rabbit!¡± Seeing this, Tong Xingda was filled with anger and followed them.


    Tong Eng stood aside hesitantly, then followed them as well.


    Zhu Hongfu said that in order to repair the house and rece the broken things, he had emptied the Zhu Family¡¯s savings. He needed to ask Tong Sang to lend him money.


    Now that Tong Sang was a sessful candidate, ten taels of silver should be nothing to him.


    Thinking about this, he asked Zhu Hongyun to stay at home, then hurriedly followed them.


    Tong Eng and Tong Xingda also followed. There must be something important happening!@@novelbin@@


    Li Rou gave Tong Dng a look, and he immediately put down his farm tools and followed them.


    On the way, Tong Sang briefly exined the situation as they walked.


    Sure enough, as soon as he finished speaking, Tong Xingda jumped up to kick him, ¡°You stinky brat, why are you meddling in this matter!¡±


    It wasn¡¯t easy to pass the exam, and the family was finally looking up.


    But because of a woman who eloped with a wild man, he even injured Sun Junyan, a sessful candidate. Isn¡¯t this looking for trouble?!


    At this moment, Tong Xingda really regretted it.


    If he had known that Tong Sang would pass the exam so easily, he would never have proposed to Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s family.


    Marrying a woman who dared to jerk her neck and contradict him was not just a liability, but a disaster!


    If they lose this debate, Tong Sang will be punished!


    Tong Sang was always on guard against Tong Xingda. Seeing him lift his foot, he quickly dodged, ¡°At this point, it¡¯s no use saying anything. We should do our best to win this debate!¡±


    ¡°You little rabbit!¡±


    Hearing his careless tone, Tong Xingda felt his head buzzing.


    If they lose, they would be gambling with their family¡¯s hopes and prospects!

 Chapter 765: 765: Pressing the Handprint

    Chapter 765: Chapter 765: Pressing the Handprint


    ¡°Sang is correct. Since the matter has already urred, we should be thinking about how to resolve it, not fuming over it,¡± Tong Tiehu said in a solemn voice.


    He wasn¡¯t very worried deep in his heart. Since the emperor emeritus dared to openly discuss this matter, it indicated that he was leaning toward Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s side.@@novelbin@@


    Plus, they had the support of the Principal from the valley. Even if Yang Wang was stirring up trouble, it should not be too serious.


    Tong Sang hummed in agreement. Feeling the pace of walking too slow, he simply picked up Tong Tiehu and used his martial arts skills to quickly head towards the entrance of the vige, ¡°Father, you can take your time and follow behind!¡±


    Tong Xingda watched Tong Sang flying away, his body trembling with anger.


    Damn it, this was too infuriating!<div>


    If he had known earlier, he definitely wouldn¡¯t have let Tong Sang learn martial arts!


    Seeing Tong Xingda in such a rage, Tong Eng shrank his neck, hoping to avoid having his father unleash his anger on himself.


    The next moment, Tong Xingda caught sight of his cowardly demeanor. He immediately became enraged and kicked at Tong Eng, ¡°Why didn¡¯t you also learn When Sang was learning martial arts!¡±


    Because of this, he could only watch as Tong Sang flew around freely, blowing steam with anger regardless of ring.


    Tong Eng was well-prepared for Tong Xingda¡¯s response. Seeing him lift his foot, he immediately darted quickly towards the vige entrance shouting, ¡°Father, I will go ahead!¡±


    The earlier he caught up with Tong Sang, the sooner he could discuss the matter about borrowing money.


    Tong Xingda, seeing this, also chased after him. Although he couldn¡¯t catch up with Tong Sang, he would surely catch up with Tong Eng!


    This way, the father and son of the Tong family ended up bing a visually captivating spectacle along the route, drawing the attention of many vigers who were working in the fields.


    As he ran, Tong Eng yelled, ¡°Stop your work, stop your work, the Principal has something to say, everyone head to the vige entrance!¡±


    Apanying Tong Eng¡¯s shouting, therge bell at the vige entrance rang.


    Hearing the bell sound, the vigers immediately rushed towards the vige entrance.


    What again has urred?


    The matter indeed was quiterge. After hearing the Principal¡¯s words, all the vigers were struck dumb.


    The small matter between the Sun Family and Zhuang L¨¹he was actually going to be discussed in public by the officials of Daqi¡¯s Imperial Court?


    My God, they were actually witnesses!


    Suddenly, all of them got very excited.


    Watching the spectacle didn¡¯t mean they didn¡¯t mind theplications. Besides, everything the Principal said was true. Everyone had seen the Sun family¡¯s bandit-like behaviors during the past decade or so.


    Moreover, Tong Sang was a schr, a schr!


    There would probably not be another schr from the vige in decades, they must support the schr from their own vige!


    Thinking like this, after the Principal¡¯s words, Chen Gun immediately louded, ¡°I¡¯ll press the print, I¡¯ll press the print, I¡¯ve seen all this for so many years!¡±


    Her family was Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s neighbor, she knew better than anyone about what the Sun Family had done.


    From the high tform, Qiao Xiaomai looked at Chen Gun in the crowd and smiled, ¡°Thank you, Auntie.¡±


    She had just lost blood, and her face was still pale.


    Seeing this, Chen Gun waved her hand quickly, ¡°It¡¯s just a matter of course, it¡¯s just a matter of course.¡±


    She had originally thought that Zhuang L¨¹he¡¯s suffering had ended, but another problem popped up.


    Poor people indeed!


    After Chen Gun came forward, the vigers lined up one by one to press their red fingerprints.


    They were not pressing the red print using the ink, the vigers bit their fingers and pressed the imprint on the white silk.


    Qiao Xiaomai watched the simple faces of the vigers, her lips pressed tightly together.


    When she was in need, these vigers lent her their hand, regardless of how they thought internally. At this moment, they all were willing to bite their fingers and press their prints.


    She must repay them.

 Chapter 679 - 679 She Became Famous

    Chapter 679: Chapter 679 She Became Famous


    Although she was born into a lowly family, from a small vige, the emperor himself hadplimented her cooking techniques. Furthermore, she had genuinely invented many new dishes, such tangible achievements were impossible not to spread her fame.


    Besides, she suspected that her twopetition experiences had a part to y.


    The first was a contest with Bai Zhi, the second was a challenge against the head chef brought by Yang Wang. Those two contests made her famous in Bailu Academy, known to every student.


    These students came from all over Daqi, including many from the Capital City. Now, due to the Township Examinations happening soon, these students would return to their hometowns, and her fame would certainly follow them.


    Days at Bailu Academy were rather dull, her two dramas were very amusing. The first time, she outshone Bai Zhi in every aspect, from appearance to taste. The second time, she produced such a fantastic Buddah¡¯s Temptation dish that the scent had half the Martial Arts Training Grounds in an uproar.


    What an interesting incident.


    What a dramatic effect.


    Entertainment in ancient times was sparse, such an event could certainly make an interesting conversation topic.


    This involved Bai Zhi, involved Yang Wang, these are royal people. The royals are not to be messed with, but discussing them within the family should be fine, right?


    As people continued to talk about these incidents, her fame continued to grow.


    With such fame inter generations, it would have certainly been converted into money. Inte celebrities and even stars would advertise small businesses, selling clothes, facial masks, and a variety of other things.


    Now, she had be the new inte sensation of Daqi, following the trend of her time, she nned to convert her intangible fame into tangible silver.


    Imagine if the Dried Sweet Potatoes she produced indeed be popr, her market would not be limited to Bailu Town moving forward.


    Her fruit trees¡¯ hardiness could absolutely withstand long-distance transportation, especially since the route between Bailu Town and the Capital City is the most well-maintained and smooth in Daqi. It is very likely that a transport route between the two ces could be developed!


    The products she made could be sold tomon folk in Bailu and the special ones could be sold to the nobles in the Capital City.


    Earning from these nobles couldn¡¯t make her feel even a shred of guilt.


    Fair prices, no fraud or deceit. If they consider it too expensive, they can simply choose not to buy.


    In the short span of time that it took Tong Sang to buy persimmons and carrots from the market, she quickly untangled the messy thoughts in her mind.


    Once the thought process became clear, the prospects seemed broad. Countless silver ingots, as if sprouting wings, seem to be fluttering towards her like small angels.


    The feeling was fantastically refreshing!


    ¡°Sister, what are youughing about?¡± Qiao Dami, who had been cracking sunflower seeds under the willow tree, saw Qiao Xiaomai standing frozen near the door, and came running over.


    When he looked up, he saw a funny smile on his sister¡¯s face, he couldn¡¯t help but tug on her sleeve.


    ¡°Sister, what are youughing about?¡±


    The juvenile voice of Qiao Dami interrupted Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s dreamy thoughts. Aware of her odd behavior, she quickly adjusted her facial expression. Looking down at Qiao Dami, she said,¡± Sister is just thinking about how to earn more money.¡±


    Patting his little head, Qiao Xiaomai started to walk towards the willow tree.


    Qiao Dami trotted after her,¡± Then I will study hard to honor our family!¡±


    @@novelbin@@


    Qiao Xiaomai could not help butugh, ¡°Yes! Study hard, grow up and protect our entire family.¡±


    Having a schr in the family, even if he wasn¡¯t an official, would still be excellent.

 Chapter 680: Posting the Imperial List

    Chapter 680: Chapter 680: Posting the Imperial List


    For instance, for a schr, if a family produces a schr, then the family can be exempted from tax.


    Currently, all the farnds of their house are recorded under the name of Qiao Changshun. Five hundred acres¨C all under his name. To be eligible for the tax exemption, they can only wait for Qiao Dami to pass the schr examination.


    With that in mind, Qiao Xiaomai started to incessantly tell Qiao Dami about the benefits of studying until the return of Tong Sang at which point she stopped.


    She couldn¡¯t wait to start washing the carrots, then cut them into small pieces and ground the carrots into juice just like grinding sweet potatoes.


    She poured this juice into a pot, added a small amount of water, and put the peeled sweet potato into it to boil.


    She first used a small part for experimentation and if it wasn¡¯t sessful, she would think of other methods.


    The sweet potato was ready after a short while, and as she expected, the surface indeed took on the color of the carrot juice, but the inside remained unchanged after cutting it open.


    Upon seeing this, Qiao Xiaomai cut the sweet potato into extremely thin slices and put them back into the pot to soak.


    The sweet potato slices were thin enough to ignore the slight gray-brown color inside when the surface waspletely dyed with carrot color.


    She put the dyed sweet potato slices in the oven to bake and the result came out quickly, proving this method workable.


    The carrot juice masked the gray-brown color very well. Although the effect was not as good as the naturally red sweet potatoes, it definitely wouldn¡¯t remind people of rat feces anymore.


    Moreover, the carrot itself had a very mild taste which didn¡¯t affect the original taste of the dried sweet potatoes.


    With this appearance, it could be presented in front of those rich and distinguished people.


    However, this method was a bit troublesome, and the idea of raising the price shed through Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s mind.


    Well, forget it, it¡¯s ok if it¡¯s troublesome for the first time.


    Besides, Fan Jia had already paid the silver ording to the price of three hundred Wen per Jin.


    Moreover, some also needed to be sent to Yang Ye¡¯s side, and an exnation was needed¡­


    Oh my, there are so many things to do!


    @@novelbin@@


    And along with all these, the day to post the Imperial List approached.


    The Imperial List was to be posted outside the County Government Office for public disy; every county had five vacancies every three years, but since Bailu Academy was in Huai¡¯an County, it had ten vacancies.


    Early this day, the County Magistrate personally posted the Imperial List outside the County Government Office.


    It clearly wrote ten names, and at the top of the list, was a person named Tong Zhan.


    The second person was named Sun Junyan.


    Qiao Xiaomai and Tong Sang got up in the middle of the night, ate something casually, and then rushed to the County Town in a bullock cart. On this big day of posting the list, both of them couldn¡¯t keep calm.


    They both came early, but others arrived even earlier. When they arrived, it was just dawn, and the entrance to the County Government Office was already crowded with people. They could only park their bullock cart to the side.


    After waiting for another hour, the County Magistrate arrived at the government office, wearing his official uniform, and posted the red Imperial List on the wall outside the office.


    Qiao Xiaomai stood in the bullock cart and tiptoed to peek at the paper. Tong Sang, tall with long legs and excellent vision, saw his name on the list the moment the County Magistrate unfolded the Imperial List.


    Good, as long as his name was there, it meant that he had passed the imperial examination and had be a schr.


    The anxiety he had held for the past few days was finally released.


    By the time the County Magistrate began to post the list, he had already read all the content on it.


    He really got the first ce¨C he became the Jieyuan.


    However, there was something not so good ¨C Sun Junyan was second.


    The confidence on Sun Junyan¡¯s face that day was real, he really knew the answers in the examination paper.


    Licking his lips, Tong Sang looked at Qiao Xiaomai and whispered, ¡°I¡¯m first, Sun Junyan is second.¡±


    Along with his words, the County Magistrate stepped aside, revealing the Imperial List that had previously been blocked by him in front of everyone.


    Qiao Xiaomai stared at the contents on the Imperial List, and with Tong Sang¡¯s words in her ear, she instinctively blurted out a curse, ¡°Fuck!¡±

 Chapter 681: Wish I Could Explode

    Chapter 681: Chapter 681: Wish I Could Explode@@novelbin@@


    If the news of Tong Sang achieving Jieyuan could make her feel so delighted she could jump in joy, then the news of Sun Junyaning second was like a lump of shit suddenly falling on her head.


    If she dared to jump, her head would instantly touch that lump of shit.


    Under these circumstances, how could she not swear?


    Damn it!


    Fuck fuck fuck!


    ¡°Shush! Calm down.¡±


    As soon as Qiao Xiaomai uttered these words, Tong Sang hastily made a faux blocking gesture in front of her mouth. In such a public ce, it would be bad if others heard her swearing.


    Qiao Xiaomai pped his hand away, unable to resist swearing again.


    Of course, this time she deliberately lowered her voice.


    Fuck fuck fuck, how could Sun Junyan, always scheming and plotting in his head, even pass the schr exam?


    And he came second, too. If it weren¡¯t for Tong Sang, he would have been the best schr in Huai¡¯an County!


    Fuck!


    This feeling was really like swallowing a fly, even half of the good mood from Tong Sang¡¯s excellent Jieyuan score was canceled out!


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, it¡¯s none of our business.¡± Tong Sang patted her back, indicating for her to sit down.


    At this moment, everyone was crowded around the Imperial List, and the contents up top were clear to see.


    Those who passed wereughing heartily while those who didn¡¯t were so gloomy they resembled the mourning of the deceased. The provincial exams were held only once every three years. If one didn¡¯t pass this time, then all their efforts over these three years were in vain.


    Three years, three years of time and hardship!


    The feeling of failure was more severe than mourning!


    This major event, which determines the fate of people, has always been this way for thousands of years ¨C some rejoice while others weep. At the scene, the sound ofughter intertwined with loud weeping, making Qiao Xiaomai feel less annoyed.


    She looked at the situation in front of her, feeling somewhat emotional.


    Once every three years, failing was akin to studying for three years in the final grade of high school, it was repeating the final year for three consecutive years ¨C so damn cruel.


    But before this sentiment could overwhelm her, a sharp and ear-piercingugh, reminiscent of a crow¡¯s cawing, quickly entered her ears.


    Forcibly and powerfully attracting all her attention.


    She subconsciously looked towards the source of the noise.


    She saw the Sun Family matron holding onto Qiao Meipan¡¯s sleeve with one hand, constantly patting her body with the other, her belly out, her head slightly tilted back, her body trembling withughter, she looked like she was having an epileptic fit.


    Qiao Xiaomai only nced them once before quickly averting her gaze, half of her joy diminished instantly again.


    Looking at the matron of the Sun familyughing so arrogantly, she felt so disgusted she wished she could vomit the meal she ate the day before yesterday onto her face.


    Given Cen Hong¡¯s unwavering determination concerning her family, afraid Sun Junyan, this cockroach, would bounce back to Anping Vige.


    ¡°I want to put a firecracker under Matron Sun¡¯s feet, let her shoot up in the sky and st into the most disgusting blood mist.¡±


    ¡°And Sun Junyan, this disgusting mother and son pair should act out a horror y with their lives.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai clenched her teeth, squeezing out these words between them.


    Tong Sang ¡°¡­¡±


    He reached out and patted Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s shoulder, ¡°Don¡¯t be so extreme, let¡¯s think positively. I am also a schr, his status as a schr doesn¡¯t mean anything in front of you. And furthermore, there¡¯s the pce exam. Who knows what the future holds?¡±


    Upon hearing this, Qiao Xiaomai considered the future, but she couldn¡¯t help but sigh.


    Sun Junyan¡¯s status was no longer that of amoner, when Yang Wang and Cen Hong wanted to take action, it could be more convenient.


    s¡­

 Chapter 684: Is She Hiding Something?

    Chapter 684: Chapter 684: Is She Hiding Something?


    Upon hearing Tong Xingda¡¯s words, Mrs. Zhang, restraining her patience, said, ¡°It¡¯s only natural for the entire vige to celebrate together. However, it¡¯s also important for our family to have our own little celebration. We don¡¯t need to spend a lot of silver on it.¡±


    Ever since she was beaten down by Tong Xingda to the point where she couldn¡¯t take care of herself, she had not enjoyed a good meal.


    She had been expecting that Qiao Xiaomai would cook for her, but now the words of divorce had been thrown out.


    Divorce, with Yang Ye backing her up, she might be able to actually get a divorce. However, she absolutely did not want a divorce. Furthermore, with Tong¡¯s third son¡¯s exams soon, she decided to endure it.@@novelbin@@


    Now that his exams are over and he has passed, they surely had to feast in celebration!


    ¡°That makes sense.¡± Tong Xingda pondered Mrs. Zhang¡¯s words. It should indeed be that they first celebrate at home and then invite the whole vige for a grand celebration. Yes, that should be the sequence.


    Tong Xingda looked at his third son, ¡°Sang, let¡¯s go, we should head to Jiwei Residence.¡±


    ¡°You all go ahead, I¡¯m not going,¡± His third son shook his head.


    ¡°There¡¯s also no need for the vige celebration. The examination begins a month from now, I¡¯ll finish up the work at home and then head to Prefecture City.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Tong Xingda¡¯s face darkened, ¡°Whose chores are you so busy with?¡±


    ¡°Xiaomai¡¯s chores.¡± His third son did not hesitate to reveal this. Eventually, it woulde out anyway, ¡°The son of the senior official Fan from the Capital City has ordered five hundred jin of dried sweet potatoes from Xiaomai. I have to help her fulfill the order.¡±


    ¡°Ordered?¡± The long-silent Tong Tiehu suddenly spoke up.


    Upon hearing this, a sh of amusement flickered in the son¡¯s eyes. Qiao Xiaomai continuously used modern terms like ¡®order¡¯ and ¡®delivery¡¯. He had heard her say these words so many times that he inadvertently repeated them.


    ¡°Yes. The dried sweet potatoes that Xiaomai makes are quite good. When Lord Fan¡¯s son left Bailu Town, he bought some and found them delicious. He sent someone to pass on a message, stating that he ns to buy five hundred jin of it. The silver has already been given to us, so Xiaomai and I need to quickly finish this batch of goods.¡±


    ¡°What dried sweet potatoes?¡± Tong Xingda voiced his confusion.


    Ever since theirst quarrel, this was the first time his third son came to the new house. He had been making dried sweet potatoes at the manor, so they did not know.


    They wouldn¡¯t be able to keep this a secret anyway, and his third son had no intention of hiding it. Due to varying sweet potato quality, even after knowing the method, they wouldn¡¯t be able to sell low-quality sweet potatoes at a high price.


    He exined the process of making dried sweet potatoes.


    Upon hearing this, the eyes of everyone in the room turned red.


    Three hundred coins for a jin!!!


    Moreover, Lord Fan¡¯s son wanted five hundred jin all at once!


    How much money would that be in total?


    After calcting the total potential earnings, not only did their eyes turn red, their faces flushed as well.


    That¡¯s a total of one hundred and fifty taels of silver!


    Qiao Xiaomai, that wretched girl. With just a little effort she could earn so much silver!


    Tong Xingda took a deep breath, suppressing his rage. ¡°You¡¯ve been at this for so long, and you haven¡¯t brought a single bit back home? We¡¯ve provided for you all these years for nothing!¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll go get it now.¡± His third son got up to leave as he spoke.


    ¡°Wait! What about the method? How do you make these dried sweet potatoes?¡± Tong Xingda asked again.


    The third son didn¡¯t hide anything and exined the method.


    Upon hearing this, Tong Xingda looked doubtful, ¡°Such troublesome processed sweet potatoes can sell for three hundred coins a jin?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s because Xiaomai¡¯s sweet potatoes are of superior quality.¡±


    ¡°Even if they are of good quality, can they really sell for three hundred coins a jin? Did she add anything special to it?!¡± Tong Xingda continued questioning.


    The third son was silent¡­


    His father truly did not disappoint him by jumping to such conclusions.


    He once again exined how the Emperor Emeritus had demanded for the method to make dried sweet potatoes, and that the method given to him was the same. Whether or not they believed it was up to them.

 Chapter 685: Lets See Whos More Competent in a Quarrel

    Chapter 685: Chapter 685: Let¡¯s See Who¡¯s More Competent in a Quarrel


    After dropping those words, Tong Sang directly used his lightness skills and left.


    He went to Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s home.


    Zhuang Luhe and Qiao Changshun had already heard from Qiao Xiaomai about Tong Sang passing the examination to be a Jieyuan. They were so happy that one was crying while holding back a smile, and the other wasughing while rubbing his hands.


    However, while Qiao Changshun wasughing and rubbing his hands, he thought about the huge changes that had urred over the past half year and couldn¡¯t help but tear up.


    It hasn¡¯t been easy!


    Fortune really doese and go!


    When Tong Sang came over, the couple was still crying. Qiao Xiaomai was sitting calmly on the side with Qiao Dami, eating sunflower seeds and milk candy in celebration!


    When she saw Tong Sang appear at the door, she spat the sunflower seed shells onto the ground from her mouth, ¡°Hello, Mr. Jieyuan.¡±


    ¡°Freshly made,e in and show it off to my parents.¡±


    Amused by herment, Tong Sang stepped in through the door.


    Seeing him, Zhuang Luhe and Qiao Changshun quickly wiped their tears and kept congratting him.


    Afterwards, the couple naturally started talking about celebrating. ording to Qiao Changshun, they wanted Zhuang Luhe to prepare a big feast, and have a grand celebration with the Tong family.


    He and Zhuang Luhe didn¡¯t know how serious the discord was between Qiao Xiaomai and the Tongs.


    Hearing this, Qiao Xiaomai said, ¡°Celebrate? There¡¯s no need. We haven¡¯t even prepared the dried sweet potatoes for the Fan family.¡±


    ¡°After we have prepared the dried sweet potatoes, we two are heading to Prefecture City, and we¡¯ll talk about it after he has passed the intermediate examination.¡±


    ¡°You two just go about your business, your mother and I will cook, all you need to do is eat.¡± Qiao Changshun insisted on celebrating for every sess, hoping to carry this good luck into the next exam.


    Seeing that there was no way to hide it any longer, Qiao Xiaomai started to confess about the argument she had with the Tong family, and concluded by saying, ¡°Even if Sang bes the top schr in the future, I will not set foot there. Both of you, don¡¯t think about it anymore.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t think about interacting with them, either, I don¡¯t n to repair this rtionship.¡±


    While saying this, Qiao Xiaomai was still eating sunflower seeds, her face calm and carefree.


    But Zhuang Luhe and Qiao Changshun were shocked by her attitude.


    She was acting as if she could do whatever she wanted, how could she still be as wilful as when she was unmarried!


    ¡°Xiaomai, you¡­ ¡± Qiao Changshun began, trying to reason with her.@@novelbin@@


    Qiao Xiaomai leaned back on the small table, her left hand casually resting on the table, and her legs crossed. She interrupted him, ¡°Father, don¡¯t worry about my affairs. Just live your own life.¡±


    Two failed people trying to teach her about life?


    She wouldn¡¯t listen!


    ¡°But you¡­¡±


    ¡°Father, could you please pack some dried sweet potatoes for me? My grandfather would like to try them,¡± interrupted Tong Sang.


    Qiao Changshun¡± ¡­¡±


    He looked at Tong Sang, sighed, and then went into the house to pack the dried sweet potatoes.


    Since Tong Sang didn¡¯t mind, there was no point in him dwelling on it. It would just upset Qiao Xiaomai.


    However, even though Tong Sang didn¡¯t mind now, would he still feel the same in the future?


    What would happen when Tong Sang became a Juren, or even a Jinshi, experienced more of the world, and broadened his horizons? Would he still feel the same?


    Even though Qiao Xiaomai was skilled and able to make money, in the end, she was just a country girl.


    Unaware of Qiao Changshun¡¯s thoughts, Qiao Xiaomai asked about the situation at the new house.


    Tong Sang told her the truth.


    Qiao Xiaomai sneered and then nced at Zhuang Luhe and Qiao Changshun who came out of the house. See, with Tong Xingda suspecting that she was hiding things, how could they get along?


    There would naturally be a fight in the future.


    The oue would depend on the strength of both sides.


    [Chapter 25 ends here, happy reading~]

 Chapter 686: A Slap in Return

    Chapter 686: Chapter 686: A p in Return


    Tong Sang carried a basket of dried sweet potatoes to their new residence.


    Naturally, these unimpressive dried sweet potatoes didn¡¯t catch the eyes of the Tong family members, especially since these dried sweet potatoes were sold at a price of three hundred wen per catty. Upon seeing the dried sweet potatoes, Tong Xingda eximed loudly, ¡°Can this thing be eaten?¡±


    Upon hearing this, Tong Sang immediately put the basket in his hands in front of Tong Tiehu, ¡°Grandpa, you should try it.¡±


    Tong Tiehu pinched one and put it in his mouth, chewed a couple of times and nodded, ¡°Hmm, it¡¯s Xiaomai¡¯s craftsmanship.¡±


    ¡°The recipe is just like this. It was also made the same way for the retired emperor. Grandpa, you keep these for your meals. I have to take care of Master Fan¡¯s order.¡±


    ¡°Go on.¡± Tong Tiehu waved his hand, indicating him to leave.


    Once Tong Tiehu finished speaking, he directly used light work to leave, not giving Tong Xingda and Zhang family a chance to scold him.


    Tong Xingda trembled with anger, ¡°Father, look, look! He truly bears the Qiao surname now! He¡¯s neglecting his own work, he didn¡¯t even celebrate such a big event like passing the schrly examinations, he¡¯s wholeheartedly devoted to the Qiao family!¡±


    Tong Tiehu, who was sitting on the stool and chewing on the dried sweet potatoes, nced at him and said without expression, ¡°It was you who begged for this daughter-inw from the Qiao family.¡±


    ¡°Oh yes, there was also your daughter-inw¡¯s fake sickness.¡±


    ¡°Marriage deception, these lowly tactics were used, she fulfilled your wishes in terms of the recipes and silver, are you still not satisfied?¡±


    ¡°If you¡¯re not satisfied, sue them. I support you suing them.¡±


    After saying this, Tong Tiehu lowered his head and continued to chew on the dried sweet potatoes.


    After tasting this dried sweet potato, he felt that he had been eating sweet potatoes in vain before. This was the real sweet potato!


    Tong Xingda was speechless, ¡°¡­¡±


    His already red face was now even redder due to suffocation.


    Sue, always telling him to sue, does he really think he won¡¯t dare to?!


    ¡°Family head, don¡¯t be angry, don¡¯t be angry.¡± Seeing Tong Xingda venting his anger to the point of steaming, Zhang¡¯s wife hurried over to advice him.


    Marriage deception, she was the main perpetrator. If this really gets out, the one who will be punished the most is certainly her.


    ¡°Today is Sang¡¯s day of great joy. No matter what, he is our son. He passed the schrly examinations, we are the ones with glory.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Tong Xingda backhanded her with a big p, ¡°Get lost! It was your bad suggestion at the start!¡±


    If it wasn¡¯t for this leverage falling into Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s hands, would he be so aggrieved now?


    Moreover, initially Qiao Xiaomai had also received him with all smiles, then suddenly turned cold. She must have known about the marriage deception.


    It¡¯s all because of Zhang¡¯s bad suggestion!


    Actually, Tong Xingda didn¡¯t take money very seriously. After all, they were a family that had owned a treasure. His vision was quite open, unlike Zhang¡¯s wife who watched every penny since she was from a lower ss family.


    Right now, he was more obsessed with Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s craftsmanship.


    What¡¯s the use of having more than ten silver bills? Even going to the Zuixian Building, he couldn¡¯t buy Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s skills.@@novelbin@@


    All because of this stupid woman!


    The more he thought about it, the angrier he got. Tong Xingda again raised his arm and hit Zhang¡¯s wife, ¡°It was your bad suggestion!¡±


    Zhang was beaten and ran around the courtyard, protesting loudly, ¡°It was eldest daughter-inw¡¯s idea, how could I think of such a n!¡±


    Upon hearing these words, Tong Xingda immediately directed his anger towards Li Rou who was standing on the side and stormed over.


    In the Tong family, there is no rule that the father-inw can¡¯t reprimand the daughter-inw. Last time Zhu Hongyun acted strangely, he had given her a p as well.

 Chapter 688: Reunion? In Your Dreams

    Chapter 688: Chapter 688: Reunion? In Your Dreams


    Sweet potatoes always taste the same, but the ones Qiao Xiaomai prepares are so delicious, she must¡¯ve added something!


    ¡°She said she¡¯d share her recipe with us, and what happened? She kept all the secrets!¡± Thinking about the snail and loach soup, cold noodles, and braised pork that Zhang Family made, Tong Xingda grumbled angrily.


    Could the taste be so different if she didn¡¯t keep secrets?!


    When Tong Xingda said this, Zhang Family frowned.


    She was standing next to Qiao Xiaomai when she was teaching her the cooking methods. Even though the dishes she made herself were not as good as Xiaomai¡¯s, they were definitely on par with the master chef from Jiwaiju.@@novelbin@@


    But after they split the family property, whatever she made, she couldn¡¯t recreate that taste anymore.


    She was able to achieve that taste before, but now she can¡¯t. Can you me Qiao Xiaomai for keeping secrets?


    Seeing Tong Xingda gnashing his teeth, Zhang Family nodded heavily, ¡°Exactly, that cunning woman, you can never tell what she¡¯s really thinking. Look how obedient our Third Young Master is to her now, she might even be a vixen!¡±


    To stand with Tong Xingda on the same side, if she said Qiao Xiaomai didn¡¯t keep secrets at this moment, Tong Xingda would definitely p her again. The scene just now where he chased and beat her while cursing her as stupid would be reyed.


    Thinking about that, Zhang Family was determined, she absolutely couldn¡¯t tell the truth!


    Upon hearing this, Tong Xingda grumbled and cursed while eating dried sweet potatoes, and left when he finished eating.


    What a bunch of idiots at home, it¡¯s so annoying!


    After Tong Xingda left, Zhu Hongyun took thest few dried sweet potatoes and approached Zhang Family. Her thoughts were the same as Zhang¡¯s. When they were in the old courtyard, the braised pork she cooked was stunning. But when they came back to Zhu Family Vige, she couldn¡¯t get that taste anymore. It was not because she was stupid, but because Qiao Xiaomai kept secrets!


    ¡°Mother, Third Young Master is a schr after all. Do you think she really wants to divorce him or is she just trying to scare us?¡±


    In the past, Tong Family was down, and Qiao Xiaomai had to lean on someone powerful.


    But now, Third Young Master is a schr!


    A young and handsome schr like him, when he goes into the Prefecture City for the examination, will certainly attract countlessdies. If he bes a sessful candidate, he will go to Capital City for the Imperial Examination next spring.


    The nobles in Capital City are so many. Isn¡¯t it written in the ys, men go for the Imperial Examination, and after they seed, some high official would insist on marrying his daughter to them?


    With Third Young Master¡¯s good looks, Zhu Hongyun was sure that even if he was only a schr, there would be high officials willing to marry their daughters to him.


    In this case, what did Qiao Xiaomai count for?


    When the timees, won¡¯t he just kick her away?


    Divorce?


    Wishful thinking, that¡¯s abandonment!


    After sharing her thoughts, Zhang Family¡¯s previously gloomy eyes lit up.


    ¡°You mean¡­¡±


    ¡°We can test her.¡± Zhu Hongyun said, ¡°See if she really wants to divorce Third Young Master.¡±


    ¡°How to test?¡± Zhang Family asked.


    Zhu Hongyun smiled, leaned closer to Zhang Family, and whispered her n.


    Qiao Xiaomai was unaware that the losers from Tong Family were ndering her again and conspiring against her. After Third Young Master came back, the two immediately went to the manor to continue making the colored dried sweet potatoes.


    With the amount of sweet potatoes in the warehouse now, they must leave for Prefecture City half a month in advance. They would be really busy in these few days.


    Yeah, on their way back to the vige she was wondering if she should not go to Prefecture City at all, but after Third Young Master¡¯s persuasion, she changed her mind.


    Go.


    By then, let Qiao Changshun, Zhuang Luhe, and Qiao Damie and stay at the manor. After all, Miao Dali¡¯s Construction Team set up camp here with tents, the three of them wouldn¡¯t have to worry.


    Besides, there¡¯s also Tong Tiehu. With Tong Tiehu to keep order, there should not be any chaos.

 Chapter 689: You stole the hairpin!

    Chapter 689: Chapter 689: You stole the hairpin!


    After five days of hard work, Qiao Xiaomai and Tong Sang had prepared the 500 jin of dried sweet potatoes that Fan Jia had requested.


    In addition, they had also prepared another 50 jin for Yang Ye, these were thetest research results, they had to make sure he knew about them lest he think they were shirking him off.


    After sending off the 500 and 50 jin of dried sweet potatoes, both Qiao Xiaomai and Tong Sang breathed a sigh of relief and started preparing for their trip to Prefecture City.


    The Imperial Examination results would be posted up after half a month, so once they went, they had to stay until the Imperial List was released before they could return.


    So all in all, they would be gone for at least one whole month.


    They needed to sort out work for this uing month ¨C the progress of the manor¡¯s construction, the arrangements for the autumn harvest, not to mention tidying up her newly built courtyard for Qiao Changsun, Zhuang Luhe, and Qiao Dami to move in.


    As for Qiao Zhaodi and Qiao Yindi, the sisters were still living in the Tong Family¡¯s new residence, but now that there was a ce for them on the manor, they too had to move.@@novelbin@@


    That evening, Qiao Xiaomai and Tong Sang took a ox-cart back to Anping Vige, preparing to move the household items that had piled up at home to the manor.


    They also brought back 20 jins of dried sweet potatoes, which were prepared for Tong Tiehu.<div>


    ¡°You load it onto the cart first, I¡¯ll be back shortly.¡±


    With a basket in one hand, Tong Sang used his lightfoot skill and ran off.


    Qiao Xiaomai began to load items onto the cart.


    For the next month, no one would be at home, so they had to move everything there, it were all items worth ten thousand taels.


    Using his lightfoot skill, Tong Sang arrived at the Tong family¡¯s new residence in no time.


    From afar, he heard shouts and cries, prompted him to frown, what was happening?


    Once he entered the yard, he sweeped his gaze across and saw Qiao Zhaodi and Qiao Yindi standing at the door of their room, crying, while the matriarch of the Zhang Family stood in front of them, left hand on hip, right hand wagging a silver hairpin at the sisters, cursing loudly.


    ¡°Our Tong family kindly allowed you two servants to stay, but how do you repay us? You dared to steal my silver hairpin! You¡¯re still not clean-handed even after bing servants, let¡¯s go see the magistrate!¡± she said, reaching out with her left hand to grab Qiao Zhaodi.


    Qiao Zhaodi quickly dodged backward and tearfully denied it, ¡°I didn¡¯t, I really didn¡¯t.¡±


    ¡°If you didn¡¯t steal this hairpin then how did it end up in your room? You even won¡¯t admit it after being caught stealing. Let¡¯s go see the magistrate! You¡¯re just like your degenerate father, a despicable creature that can¡¯t see sunlight!¡± Zhang shouted, stepping into the room and once again reaching out to grab Qiao Zhaodi.


    ¡°Stop!¡±


    Tong Sang¡¯s brows knitted together, setting his basket down on a table and striding towards Zhang, ¡°Mother, what¡¯s going on?¡±


    Upon hearing him, Zhang faltered. She turned around, her face red with anger, raising the hairpin she held in her hand, ¡°You remember this hairpin, don¡¯t you? Your father bought it for me when we got married. I wanted to wear it a few days ago but couldn¡¯t find it anywhere, even after turning my entire room upside down.¡±


    ¡°And today I found it in the rooms of these two servants. Tell me, if they didn¡¯t steal it, did it grow legs and walk there by itself?!¡±


    As soon as Zhang finished speaking, Zhu Hongyun, who had been enjoying the spectacle from the side, took a step forward and said, ¡°Sang, you¡¯ve been epted as a schr, right? A few days ago mother went to our grandmother¡¯s house to share the good news and wanted to wear this hairpin, but we couldn¡¯t find it anywhere. Who¡¯d have thought that we¡¯d find it by ident in Zhaodi and Yindi¡¯s room today.¡±


    Li Rou sat to the side, one hand holding onto Tong Xiaoyue. Tong Xiaoxing was standing beside her.


    Spotting the dried sweet potatoes that Tong Sang had brought, she grabbed a handful and divided it between Tong Xiaoxing and Tong Xiaoyue, then grabbed another handful for herself. She munched on them while watching, appearing to be quite entertained by the drama.


    The others were nowhere to be found.

 Chapter 691 - 691 Damn, is it over yet!

    Chapter 691: Chapter 691 Damn, is it over yet!


    Of course, Tong Sang didn¡¯t have this thing.


    The Truth Elixir is fake. It can only cause hallucinations.


    The effect of causing hallucinations could be considered insignificant or significant, depending one¡¯s perspective. Moreover, considering his sensitive status as part of the Tong Family, he never considered asking Ma Dongshu for it.


    He never thought of it, but Qiao Xiaomai did.


    Using the excuse that she had too many delicacies nearby, Qiao Xiaomai gave Ma Dongshu a bunch of wonderful treats, sessfully exchanging them for three Truth Elixirs.


    And now, they needed them.


    ¡°Both of you wait here then. I¡¯ll go ask your sister, Xiaomai, for them. She still has them,¡± said Tong Sang, before he swiftly departed using his qinggong.


    Qiao Xiaomai was moving a dressing table. She picked up this hundred-pound dresser with one hand and ced it on the cow cart. She was about to continue moving things when Tong Sang¡¯s figure appeared in the courtyard.


    Tong Sang briefly exined the situation at the new house, and as he had expected, Qiao Xiaomai immediately burst into vulgarities, ¡°Fuck! Will this never end?¡±<div>


    Tong Sang was helpless. What could he do about his family stirring up trouble?


    Should he lock up his own parents and forbid them to leave the house?


    As a junior, he was also quite desperate faced with such a situation.


    ¡°Alright then, let¡¯s hurry over,¡± he said, extending his arm to wrap it around Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s waist.


    Qiao Zhaodi and Qiao Yindi were both more honest than the other. If they went toote, they might get the short end of the stick.


    Qiao Xiaomai pulled a face but nodded, extending her arm to wrap it around his waist, and the two of them headed to the new residence.


    By the time the two of them arrived, the Zhang Family members had alreadye out of the sisters¡¯ room. They were standing under a tree, exchanging nces,municating something with their eyes.


    ¡°Zhaodi, Yindi, both of you,e out!¡± Qiao Xiaomai steadied her body and shouted at the sisters¡¯ room.


    Upon hearing her, Qiao Zhaodi and Qiao Yindi immediately ran out.@@novelbin@@


    They indeed ran out.


    Qiao Xiaomai was now their lifeline. Once she called out, the two of them rushed out swiftly.


    Qiao Xiaomai looked at their red and swollen eyes, their gloomy little faces. Her gaze then shifted to the Zhang Family members standing under the tree, Zhu Hongyun included.


    Those two were also looking at her. The Zhang Family members still looked angry, but Zhu Hongyun appeared somewhat ufortable.


    It was the first time Zhu Hongyun had seen Qiao Xiaomai since the confrontation in the kitchen of Zuixian Building.


    Stealing the recipe for Braised Pork was indeed her fault. But with Qiao Xiaomai being so wealthy, was it necessary for her to harp on this one recipe?


    What about sisterly affection?


    What about the magnanimity of the rich?


    It seemed that Qiao Xiaomai didn¡¯t care about any of those, not at all!


    Heartless!


    Out of anger, she therefore returned to her parents¡¯ house.


    When she first returned, her mother scolded her, but she didn¡¯t worry. After all, Tong Eng was always obedient to her. He¡¯d undoubtedlye to find her soon.


    Whatever the problem, Tong Eng will front the situation for her. She was not afraid.


    With this thought, shefortably settled into her parents¡¯ house.


    However, more than ten days passed without a trace of Tong Eng.


    This made her panic. Is¡­ is Tong Eng also angry with her?


    No, no, no, impossible.


    Tong Eng must¡¯ve been locked up by Qiao Xiaomai. It must be so!


    But Qiao Xiaomai is his younger sister, she has no right to lock up Tong Eng¡­


    This reason clearly isn¡¯t usible!


    Can it be that Tong Eng was truly angry with her because of this?


    She didn¡¯t deliberately hide it from Tong Eng. When the recipe was exchanged for silver, Tong Eng would definitely get a share!


    Just when she was feeling anxious and uncertain, she realized she was pregnant.


    Pregnant.


    There was a small being in her belly.


    Regardless of whether it¡¯s a boy or girl, both were her life-saving talisman.


    The Tong family had a small poption. Tong Tiehu didn¡¯t favor boys over girls. Bing pregnant was a huge contribution to the Tong family.

 Chapter 692: Teaching both Silver and Prescription!

    Chapter 692: Chapter 692: Teaching both Silver and Prescription!


    Knowing she was pregnant, all her anxieties and worries vanished.


    Snorting, she settled down at her family home, demanding that Tong ErLang shoulde and escort her back home!


    But staying at her maiden home doesn¡¯t mean idleness. Her family¡¯s situation isn¡¯t great, she has been used to loafing about at Tong¡¯s house, but now she must suddenly adapt to join her brother and his wife performing heavy farm work.


    Being pregnant is a big deal for the Tongs, but for ordinary peasant families, it is nothing. Almost all peasant women have experienced working in the fields while heavily pregnant. The peasants were poor and the workloads were heavy so there was no way they could amodate an idle pregnant woman.


    Having to work in the fields while pregnant is pitiful!


    So, she once again started thinking and began rallying her old mother to open a shop selling braised pork.


    She failed to sell her recipes at the Zuixian Buildingst time, but this time she was going to make money from them. What would it matter anyway with Qiao Xiaomai and Tong Tiehu knowing their child was in her belly?


    Would they dare to beat her like they used to?


    Evidently, even Tong Tiehu would not agree to this!<div>


    So, she generously handed over the recipe for braised pork to her old mother. Even though the taste was not as good as Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s, it was pleasant enough for the vigers.


    The peasants, ustomed to digging thend for food daily, were thrilled with the savory, oily meat bathed in a red sauce that was perfect with arge steamed bun.


    A small amount of money could buy adleful of braised pork, which had six or seven pieces, enough for a small household to eat in a day!


    The vigers often came to buy some from her, requesting extra sauce every day as they could eat two steamed buns with just the sauce.


    As she had thought, her shop that only sold braised pork was quite popr.


    She was able to earn several copper coins a day, which was definitely a good business in the countryside.


    So, she simply passed on the malt sugar recipe as well. Whether teaching one or two recipes, earning a little extra was beneficial.


    With her business running well, she received cash every day and was no longer in a hurry.


    And then, after a few days, Tong ErLang appeared.


    Unable to contain himself, desperately missing her, he eventually sneaked out to see her.


    With Tong ErLanging to fetch her, it only seemed natural for her to return to the Tongs.


    Being pregnant, even Tong Tiehu could not bully her.@@novelbin@@


    Following Tong ErLang back, as she expected, Tong Tiehu, despite his intense anger, could do nothing to her. She deliberately unted her belly, showing no signs of pregnancy. Which person would dare be a tough hand to a pregnant woman?


    But annoyingly, the Tongs were even trying to split up the family!


    Moreover, this separation was a condition they had proposed when originally asking for marriage negotiations with the Qiaos. She and Tong ErLang were kept in the dark about all of this!


    How dare they!


    They¡¯ve treated her and Tong ErLang as outsiders!


    Moreover, with this division, the Zhang¡¯s received sixteen hundred taels of silver and several recipes!


    Silver!


    Recipes!


    Her departure from the Tongs had resulted in her missing out on these opportunities!


    Although Li Rou didn¡¯t benefit from these either, that was because Li Rou was rather dull. If she had been around, she could have gained a lot from the division.


    What a pity!


    Although she was resentful and wished she could howl, she didn¡¯t show it on her face. She was enduring.


    Tong SanLang was about to take the Imperial Examination, which had higher priority than the little one in her belly.


    Everything else can wait until after Tong SanLang passes!


    Then, Tong SanLang actually passed, but there was no relief in the tension.


    Good, now she coulde up with a n against Qiao Xiaomai.


    Tong SanLang was a schr, Qiao Xiaomai was just a country girl. Now that the Tongs had the upper hand, what arrogance could Qiao Xiaomai disy?


    Things should go back to the way they were before, with Qiao Xiaomai on her knees, begging the Tongs!


    Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s silver and recipes must be turned over!

 Chapter 693: Feed Zhang Family the Truth Elixir

    Chapter 693: Chapter 693: Feed Zhang Family the Truth Elixir


    And so, today¡¯s n was set.


    Seeing the Qiao sisters, Zhaodi and Yindi, packing their belongings to move out, she asked the Zhang Family to help. While aiding them, during a moment of their unawareness, she hid a silver hairpin under their pillow, then framed them for theft.


    As the saying goes, to strike a dog, one must know its master. Qiao Xiaomai is their master. She wanted to provoke the sisters to test Xiaomai¡¯s temper.


    But she never imagined that Tong Sang would have a Truth Elixir!


    The Truth Elixir is considered a divine object in Anping Vige. When Qiao Chang¡¯an refused to admit to the usations made by Qiao Changkang, Ma Dongshu introduced this divine object.


    After which, the matter was quickly resolved.@@novelbin@@


    With this divine object now in y, how would the situation end today?


    What should she do?


    Watching the unease on Zhu Hongyun¡¯s face, Xiaomai sneered and strode forward.<div>


    Upon noticing this, Zhu Hongyun quickly retreated behind Zhang Family¡¯s members, a panic look on her face, ¡°What are you trying to do?!¡±


    ¡°You sold me outst time, and I haven¡¯t forgotten that. You think it¡¯s all in the past just because you¡¯re pregnant now?¡± Xiaomai approached her with a chilling smile, ¡°Tell me, did you set this up today?!¡±


    ¡°What nonsense are you talking about! I don¡¯t know anything!¡±


    Zhu Hongyun, seeing Xiaomai closing in, urgently tugged on the sleeve of the Zhang Family¡¯s matriarch, ¡°Mother, look at her! She beats me, a pregnant woman, for disobedience of her own maids!¡±


    Upon hearing her words, the matriarch hummed, taking a step forward to block Xiaomai, ¡°What are you trying to do?!¡±


    It¡¯s just a Truth Elixir, what¡¯s the big deal?


    The sisters aren¡¯t thieves, and after taking the elixir, they will still affirm they weren¡¯t.


    But the hairpin was found under the sisters¡¯ pillow, which even they admitted to. With this, she insisted that the sisters had stolen it ¨C what could Xiaomai do?


    What could Xiaomai do!


    With Tong Sang watching, Xiaomai wouldn¡¯t dare toy a finger on her!


    Staring at the raised chin of the matriarch, Xiaomai suddenly thrust out her right hand, seizing the old woman¡¯s jaw and forcing her mouth open. Her left hand then struck her.


    Of course, she was holding a Truth Elixir in her left hand.


    Saying she wouldn¡¯t dare to strike at Zhang Family?


    Hmph.


    Hahaha.


    Back then, when she fought with her stepmother and her deadbeat dad tried to intervene, she pushed him away in her anger as well.


    If she could push her own father, then Zhang Family was nothing to her.


    She had already shown her kindness to Zhang Family. That 1,600 taels was to buy off Tong Sang!


    Zhang Family never imagined that Xiaomai would take action.


    Tong Sang hadn¡¯t expected Xiaomai to take action either.


    By the time he realized, Xiaomai had already fed the Truth Elixir to Zhang.


    He was startled and immediately pulled Xiaomai aside, holding her arm tightly. The look of shock and unease was evident on his handsome face, ¡°Xiaomai, you! How could you?!¡±


    ¡°What did I do?¡± Xiaomai looked up at him expressionlessly, taking in his shock and disbelief, andughed without humor.


    ¡°Did I hit your mother? Did I curse at her? All I did was to feed her a Truth Elixir. Which rule of the Daqi Laws did I vite?¡±


    ¡°When your mother was bedriddenst month and I was too busy with other things to attend to her, she was eager to catch the thief who stole her hairpin. I just fed her a pill to help her cool down. What did I do wrong?¡±

 Chapter 694: When I Go Mad, I Recognize No Relatives

    Chapter 694: Chapter 694: When I Go Mad, I Recognize No Rtives


    ¡°Are you feeding her that?! You¡¯re forcing her to eat it!¡± Tong Sang stomped his feet in anxiety.


    In his view, this was akin to assaulting an elder!


    And this was no ordinary elder, this was his biological mother!


    This was Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s mother-inw!


    The audacity of such an action was simply outrageous!


    Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s face remained expressionless as she looked at him, ¡°So, how would you suggest to resolve this? Feed it to your second sister-inw? She¡¯s pregnant, and if the child is damaged, who will take responsibility?¡±


    As she was speaking, Qiao Xiaomai violently shook off Tong Sang¡¯s arm.


    Keeping a cold face, she rubbed the area that Tong Sang has grasped, which was slightly painful. Her small face was as solemn as water, and her peach blossom eyes seemed to be frozen over, making her look chillingly cold.


    A chilly aura enveloped her, isting her from everyone else.<div>


    Even from the world.


    Tong Sang had never seen Qiao Xiaomai looking this way, his own expression was frozen in shock.


    ¡°Tong Sang, have you forgotten what I¡¯ve told you? When I get mad, I lose all sense of family ties.¡± Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s luscious lips parted to utter words that sent chills down Tong Sang¡¯s spine. After she spoke, she pointed her right index finger at him, and uttered three more words.


    ¡°Including you.¡±


    Having thrown those three words at him, Qiao Xiaomai, her face covered in frost, turned to look at Zhang Family¡¯s mother.


    Earlier, she had stuffed the Truth Elixir into Zhang¡¯s mouth. When Zhang tried to vomit, she forced Zhang to close her mouth, making her swallow the Truth Elixir.


    Now, the Truth Elixir was in effect.


    It appeared to Zhang as if the space in front of her was ripped open, everything distorted, a constant buzzing ringing in her ears. As a vige woman, she had never experienced such a thing, and it left her in a panic, screaming, ¡°Sang, Sang! Where are you?!¡±


    Everything in view was warped, this feeling was akin to being blind, horrifying for her.


    She couldn¡¯t help but scream Tong Sang¡¯s name.


    Even at such a time, Tong Sang was indeed the one she trusted the most.


    ¡°Why are you screaming?! You still have the audacity to call Sang! Framing his wife for having improper rtions with another man, is that how you y the mother?!¡± Qiao Xiaomai smirked.


    Zhang¡¯s world was already distorted, and amongst all this chaos, Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s words were the only sound. When Qiao Xiaomai said this, she raised her volume, her tone filled with judgement.@@novelbin@@


    Zhang grew even more panicked, ¡°I, I¡¯ve raised him since he was a little boy, I was doing it all for his good.¡±


    ¡°So, your idea of doing it all for his good is to continuously cause trouble for his wife? Always creating problems out of nowhere, making sure he can never live a day in peace?!¡±


    ¡°Enough with your stubbornness, you never saw him as a son! You simply used him as a tool, a tool that could earn you money and face!¡±


    At her words, which felt like a wake-up call, or rather a sharp sword lunging towards Zhang.


    Zhang panicked, frantically shouting, ¡°I didn¡¯t, I didn¡¯t! Sang is my own child!¡±


    ¡°Since you consider him your own child, tell me who masterminded the baseless usations against Qiao Zhaodi and Qiao Yindi today!¡± Qiao Xiaomai shot another question at her fiercely.


    ¡°Just as he was preparing to go to Prefecture City for the imperial examination, you messed everything up and disturbed his peace of mind! Did you do it on purpose? Were you trying to sabotage his chances of passing the examination?!¡±


    The usation was too bold, too heavy. Zhang was so anxious that tears welled up in her eyes, her face burning red, ¡°It was the second daughter-inw¡¯s idea! It was her! It had nothing to do with me, why wouldn¡¯t I hope for Sang to pass the exams?!¡±

 Chapter 695: She is truly ruthless and ungrateful

    Chapter 695: Chapter 695: She is truly ruthless and ungrateful


    Zhang Family was truly in distress now.


    When Tong Sang was not involved with Qiao Xiaomai, she had been very fond of this third son.


    How could she possibly not want Tong Sang to ace the Imperial Examination? She wished he could be the first in the country tomorrow!


    ¡°Sang, Sang, don¡¯t me your mother. This idea came from your second sister-inw; it has nothing to do with me. I¡¯m always hoping for the best for you!¡±


    Tong Sang remained silent, his mind focused entirely on Qiao Xiaomai. This side of Qiao Xiaomai was too unfamiliar to him.


    So unfamiliar that it hurt.


    She had even pointed to his nose and said it included him.


    When she went mad, she didn¡¯t even recognize him anymore¡­


    Qiao Xiaomai didn¡¯t have time to worry about Zhang Family¡¯s confession, the second daughter-inw.<div>


    She immediately turned her gaze to Zhu Hongyun.


    ¡°It¡¯s you again!¡±


    Zhu Hongyun was scared stiff when Qiao Xiaomai fed Zhang Family the Truth Elixir, she never imagined that Qiao Xiaomai dared toy a hand on Zhang Family.


    That was her mother-inw!


    Looking at how Sun Family oppressed Zhuang L¨¹he, it was clear that a mother-inw was no different from a biological mother; she should not be messed with.


    But what did Qiao Xiaomai do?


    Qiao Xiaomai actually pinched Zhang Family¡¯s mouth and forcibly fed her the Truth Elixir!


    Heavens!


    Qiao Xiaomai was trying to reach for the sky!


    While she was still in shock, Zhang Family had already spat out the phase ¡®second daughter-inw¡¯.


    Oh my god! This Truth Elixir is truly divine!


    At that moment, she almost jumped up, but thinking about the baby in her belly made her abruptly stop the impulsive move.


    Yes, she had something in her belly, anyone who dared to make a move against her would answer for two lives!@@novelbin@@


    However, although she thought so, the cold gaze from Qiao Xiaomai sent chills down her spine, causing her to stammer as she spoke, ¡°Wha-What do you want!¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai curved her lips, ¡°Giving you two options: One, obedientlye with me to County Town tomorrow to face the judgement of the county¡¯s chief.¡±


    ¡°Tong Sang, you¡¯re a schr, well-read, tell us, what punishment will your second sister-inw face if she goes to the County Government Office?¡±


    Tong Sang clenched his fists tightly. Having heard this, he took a deep breath and started speaking, ¡°It¡¯s a crime known as false usation and framing. Both Zhaodi and Yindi were originally ves, so if the second sister-inw sessfully used them, then Zhaodi and Yindi would be severely punished. So, the second sister-inw¡¯s actions are extremely egregious.¡±


    ¡°ording to ¡®Daqi Law¡¯, she should be sentenced to fixed-term imprisonment of more than one year but less than three.¡±


    Upon hearing this, the cold smile on Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s face became deeper, ¡°Zhu Hongyun, how do you like this option?¡±


    Zhu Hongyun was already scared pale at this point. More than a year but less than three?


    Heavens!


    Did she have to go to prison?


    Was her baby going to be born in prison?!


    Qiao Xiaomai, noticing Zhu Hongyun¡¯s pale face, continued, ¡°Secondly, pay me ten taels of sliver, and go back to your mother¡¯s house. Smash the kitchen in your mother¡¯s home with your own hands, and apologize to me in front of your whole vige.¡±


    Zhu Hongyun was pregnant, she obviously couldn¡¯t take this matter to court. This offer was intended to scare Zhu Hongyun.


    Zhu Hongyun would definitely choose the second option.


    These days, Zhu Hongyun¡¯s family couldn¡¯t have made ten taels of silver from selling braised pork and malt sugar. Zhu Hongyun herself also didn¡¯t have that much silver, this ten taels of silver would definitely make Zhu Hongyun go broke, or even end up in debt.


    And then there was Zhu Hongyun¡¯s family¡¯s kitchen.


    Dare to conduct business in there using her recipe without her consent, did she really think of her as a sick cat who would notsh out?


    She wanted Zhu Hongyun to smash this kitchen with her own hands!


    And also to apologize to her in front of all the vigers of Zhu Family.


    Heh, they dared to use her ofcking sisterhood andpassion, and being ruthless in her pursuit of wealth. Fine, she would be utterly heartless then!

 Chapter 696 - 496: Becoming a Bandit

    Chapter 696: Chapter 496: Bing a Bandit


    Upon hearing Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s second choice, Zhu Hongyun¡¯s face grew even paler.


    Compensate with silver, wreck the kitchen, apologize in front of everyone.


    Qiao Xiaomai was obviously forcing her into a corner@@novelbin@@


    She couldn¡¯t do any of these things.


    Her mind races. The next moment, her hands clutch her belly, her body hunching over like a shrimp. Her face is a mask of agony, ¡°Ah, Ah! My belly hurts, my belly hurts!¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai watches her with a nk expression, ¡°Tong Sang, go fetch Doctor Wu.¡±


    ¡°Zhu Hongyun, don¡¯t assume that just because you¡¯re pregnant, I can¡¯t touch you. If Doctor Wu discovers you¡¯re faking, your only option is the first choice. I will personally make sure you spend three years in jail!¡±


    At these words, Zhu Hongyun, who¡¯d been moaning and groaning, suddenly falls silent. Her hunched back slowly straightens.


    Seeing this, Qiao Xiaomaiughs coldly, ¡°No longer acting?¡±<div>


    Zhu Hongyun lowers her head, her face slowly turning crimson.


    ¡°Harness the bullock cart, let¡¯s rush there overnight.¡± Seeing this, Qiao Xiaomai ignores her and turns to Tong Sang.


    Tong Sang grunts in agreement, his expression back to normal, ¡°You wait here, I¡¯ll go hitch the cart.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai hums indifferently, then turns to sisters Qiao Zhaodi and Qiao Yindi, ¡°You two go wash your faces.¡±


    Qiao Zhaodi and Qiao Yindi run off to the kitchen to scoop water at hermand.


    Qiao Xiaomai then turns her attention toward the Zhang Family. Having been petrified by Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s threat to Zhu Hongyun, and with Tong Sang now gone, they slowly sit down on the ground. Feeling restless and insecure, they lie down, their hands covering their heads, their bodies curled up into balls.


    Qiao Xiaomai can¡¯t be bothered with them. Her gaze returns to Zhu Hongyun, ¡°The ten taels of silver, fork it out.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t have it,¡± Zhu Hongyun says, her lips trembling.


    Qiao Xiaomaiughs, ¡°So, how much do you have?¡±


    ¡°Less than one tael.¡±


    ¡°Are you trying to fool a three-year-old? Tong Sang even has a stash of over a hundred taels of silver, and you and Tong Eng don¡¯t even have one tael?¡± Qiao Xiaomai says, scoffing at her.


    ¡°We spent it all. We have none left. Otherwise, we wouldn¡¯t have sold the prescriptions,¡± Zhu Hongyun lowers her head, her hands clenched around her clothes as she speaks.


    ¡°Zhaodi, Yindi, go search Zhu Hongyun¡¯s room. If you find anything of value, bring it out.¡± Qiao Xiaomai instructs the sisters, who are washing their faces by the washbasin.


    Thismand startles the sisters.


    What?


    Search the room?


    Behave like thieves, just like the Sun Family?


    Upon hearing this, Zhu Hongyun, raises her head, eximing, ¡°You dare!¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai raises an eyebrow, ¡°So, you do have valuable things but are unwilling to part with them.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t!¡± Zhu Hongyun retorts, flustered.


    ¡°Then what are you scared of?¡± Qiao Xiaomai nces at her, her voice suddenly icier, ¡°Zhaodi, Yindi, go search!¡±


    Upon hearing the tone of thismand, the sisters exchange a nce, and forget about finishing washing their faces. They quickly stand up and run toward Zhu Hongyun¡¯s room.


    Seeing this, Zhu Hongyun bes anxious, and tries to intercept them.


    Qiao Xiaomai calmly warns her, ¡°Don¡¯t run. If something happens to the child in your belly, your safety umbre will be gone.¡±


    Her words stop Zhu Hongyun immediately.


    It¡¯s the truth. The child in her belly is the only reason she¡¯s not harmed. Nothing can happen to it.

 Chapter 698 - 698 No One to Call for Help

    Chapter 698: Chapter 698 No One to Call for Help


    Soon, Tong Sang arrived, driving a bullock cart.


    By now, the Qian Family matriarch, who had been out visiting, had also returned. It was gettingte, and time to make dinner. Otherwise, she would be scolded when Tong Tiehu returned to find the meal wasn¡¯t ready.


    Seeing the state of the courtyard, the matriarch from the Qian family was taken aback.


    Zhang family¡¯s matriarch was lying on the ground. Zhu Hongyun stood paralyzed. Qiao Xiaomai had one foot on a box and was holding an axe in one hand. There was arge hole in the top of the box.


    Li Rou was sitting on the side, munching on dried sweet potatoes and watching themotion with the two children.


    What was going on?!


    Before the matriarch from the Qian family could ask for any exnation, the stoutborers who had been out digging sweet potatoes returned.


    Upon seeing the scene in the courtyard, Tong Tiehu and others were equally shocked. ¡°What happened?¡±


    ¡°An exceptionally vile incident just took ce,¡± maintained Qiao Xiaomai, still holding the axe and standing on the box. She exined the whole situation, including the two options she offered. She added as a conclusion, ¡°Grandfather, your daughter-inw Sang has chosen the second option. I¡¯ve got the ten taels of silver. What remains is to go to Zhu Family Vige to smash their kitchen and apologize.¡±<div>


    Her words were met with silence in the courtyard.


    Zhu Hongyun and matriarch Zhang¡¯s n to harm Qiao Zhaodi and Qiao Yindi had been utterly shocking.


    Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s forcing matriarch Zhang to eat the Truth Elixir equally shocked everyone.


    Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s decisiveness was even more shocking.


    Tong Eng soon recovered from his surprise, and instantly started yelling at Qiao Xiaomai, ¡°Xiaoyun is your sister-inw! Have you really given up on any consideration for her?!¡±


    ¡°I have indeed given up on giving any consideration. What will you do about it?¡± Qiao Xiaomai was toozy to argue about the double standards and absurdity in Tong Eng¡¯s words. She swung the axe in her hand and hooked her index finger towards him with her left hand, ¡°If you¡¯re not convinced,e on, fight me.¡±


    ¡°Do you really think¡­¡± Tong Eng stomped his feet and strode towards Qiao Xiaomai.


    His words were soon interrupted by Tong Sang, ¡°Second Brother! When you said you wanted Xiaomai to teach your wife how to cook braised pork, did Xiaomai teach her?!¡±


    ¡°She did teach her, but today¡¯s incident¡­¡±@@novelbin@@


    Tong Sang interrupted him again, ¡°That¡¯s enough! She has done everything she could. If you continue to pressure her, she will only choose the first option. Do you want your first child to be born in jail!¡±


    At these words, Tong Eng looked utterly incredulous, ¡°How could you be on Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s side too!¡±


    ¡°You and your wife are on one side, so of course, I and my wife are on the other. We will do as Xiaomai suggested regarding today¡¯s matter.¡± Tong Sang then pointed to the ox cart beside him, ¡°Sister-inw, get in the cart.¡±


    ¡°No!¡± Tong Eng pounced on Tong Sang, shouting.


    With a nk expression, Tong Sang raised his hand and side-stepped. He avoided him and then urately hit the back of his neck.


    Tong Eng let out a muffled groan, everything went ck before his eyes, and his body started to sag.


    Tong Sang caught him and carried him back to his room.


    Then he came out of the room, stood in the courtyard, and again pointed to the ox cart, saying to Zhu Hongyun, ¡°Sister-inw, get in the cart.¡±


    Zhu Hongyun¡¯splexion was shifting between white and red. She looked at Tong Tiehu for help.


    In the dusk, Tong Tiehu stood silently with his hands behind his back.


    Tong Xingda, too, stood still with both eyebrows knitted together.


    Tong Dng and Li Rou stood together holding Tong Xiaoxing, and didn¡¯t even nce at her.


    From this family of five men, the only one who could help her and was willing to support her was Tong Eng, and he had been knocked out.


    She had no one left to turn to¡­


    [End of Chapter Eight, good night everyone!]

 Chapter 699: I am Not Part of Your Family

    Chapter 699: Chapter 699: I am Not Part of Your Family


    ¡°Grandfather, I was wrong. Can you let me off just this once?¡± Zhu Hongyun rushed over to Tong Tiehu, immediately falling to her knees. Tears started to flood her eyes, and she began to sob uncontrobly.


    Did she dare to cause havoc in her mother¡¯s family kitchen?


    She didn¡¯t have the courage.


    Her brother and sister-inw would eat her alive!


    ¡°You are kneeling to the wrong person,¡± Tong Tiehu stated expressionlessly, ¡°If you want to kneel, kneel to Xiaomai.¡±


    Upon hearing these words, Zhu Hongyun paused her sobbing, tearfully looking over at Qiao Xiaomai.


    Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s demeanor remained icy, ¡°Kneeling to me won¡¯t do you any good, today, I am stone-hearted and ruthless.¡±


    ¡°You seriously have no regard for sister-inw rtionships?!¡± Zhu Hongyun asked, her voice tinged with anger, reminiscent of the day she reprimanded Qiao Xiaomai at the Zuixian Building.


    Qiao Xiaomai let out a coldugh, ¡°Give it up. Unless you drop dead, you¡¯d better just head back to Zhu Vige.¡±<div>


    It¡¯s so liberating to be the viin.


    With that, she waved the axe in her hand and dered, ¡°Everyone in the Courtyard, listen up! When I do things, I usually start off being friendly and show consideration for family ties, if you want something, I¡¯ll give.¡±


    ¡°As for all of you, I¡¯ve given you what was due: silver, allowances, and even face.¡±


    ¡°But clearly, you don¡¯t see me as family. All you think about is how to get more benefits from me, such ugliness, I wish I could vomitst night¡¯s leftovers on all your faces.¡±


    ¡°Family ties? Those minuscule familial bonds you had with me have all been used up.¡±


    ¡°So, don¡¯t ever think about using ¡®we are family¡¯ as an excuse anymore. I don¡¯t see you as family; you hold no respect here.¡±


    ¡°If you want to keep stirring up trouble under the name of family in the future, don¡¯t me me if I smack you dead.¡±


    ¡°Cutting ties? I¡¯ve done it once before, it wouldn¡¯t impossible for me to do it again.¡±


    At this point, Qiao Xiaomai paused, and then turned to Tong Sang, ¡°Tong Sang, do you think what I¡¯ve said is reasonable?¡±


    Tong Sang, his handsome face numb, mechanically nodded his head, ¡°Yes, your words¡­they make sense.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai was forcing him to choose between her and his family today.


    And her reasoning was more than justified: it was the Tong Family who first didn¡¯t consider her as part of their family.


    So, naturally, she was also not considering the Tong Family as her family. The familial bonds between her and the Tong Family have expired after countless dramas.


    What can he choose?


    Would he abandon the faultless Qiao Xiaomai and choose his family instead?


    His family¡­ they only ever demanded from him.


    How had thingse to this¡­?


    ¡°Very good,¡± Qiao Xiaomai smirked coldly, ¡°Zhu Hongyun, did you hear that? Don¡¯t mention that ridiculous mention of sentiment again. To me, you have none.¡±@@novelbin@@


    Zhu Hongyun waspletely dumbstruck.


    Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s words were not just rebellious; they were practically sphemous.


    A newlywed bride, daring to dere a break in rtionship with her husband¡¯s family, was seen as attempting to defy heaven itself!


    ¡°Grandfather, grandfather, did you hear what she said? She even insulted you. Are you really going to let her do as she pleases?¡± She lifted her head, anxiously looking at Tong Tiehu.


    Tong Tiehu was the head of the family. Qiao Xiaomai was tantly challenging his authority!


    With Tong Tiehu¡¯s vtile temperament, how could he tolerate this!

 Chapter 702: Talking Sense is Useless, You Can Only Fight

    Chapter 702: Chapter 702: Talking Sense is Useless, You Can Only Fight


    Tong Tiehu looked at the steaming and flushed face of Tong Xingda and took a deep breath, ¡°You,e into the room with me.¡±


    He was so angry he couldn¡¯t breathe, he felt like his energy had been drained. All he wanted to do at this moment was lie down and rest.


    But he couldn¡¯t.


    He couldn¡¯t rest.


    If Tong Xingda really publicized the matter, Qiao Xiaomai would definitely expose the deceptive marriage. With Yang Ye¡¯s backing, the Tong Family could never win.


    Ultimately, the one who would suffer would be the Tong Family.


    Moreover, Tong Sang¡¯s examination for the Imperial Exam in the Prefecture City wasing up. Whether he could pass it or not not only depended on Tong Sang¡¯s ability but also the Emperor¡¯s decision. What if the Emperor allowed Tong Sang to hold the position of a government schr?


    Thus, they must repeat what they did some time ago: remain quiet and stay out of trouble.


    Tong Xingda must be suppressed.<div>


    So annoying, this group of blockheads, so annoying!


    Tong Tiehu grabbed Tong Xingda¡¯s ear and dragged him back to the room for re-education, leaving only Mrs. Qian, Mrs. Zhang, who was lying on the ground, and the Tong Dng¡¯s family in the courtyard.


    Mrs. Qian muttered something and went into the kitchen to cook.


    Tong Dng walked over and helped Zhang Shi up. The effects of the Truth Elixir would naturally fade away. Once he got through this period, everything would be fine.


    After leaving Zhang Shi¡¯s room, however, his gaze shifted towards Li Rou.


    Just like him, a troubled expression was stered on Li Rou¡¯s face.


    The heartless words from Qiao Xiaomai and Tong Sang were a harsh reality. Especially Qiao Xiaomai, wanting to cut ties with the Tong family.


    To sever ties means not even Zhang Shi and Tong Xingda could reap any benefits.


    What about their family?


    Moreover, the sixteen hundred taels previously given by Qiao Xiaomai were all in Tong Xingda¡¯s hands, and only Zhang Shi knew the recipe. In other words, his family only received the recipe for Braised Pork.@@novelbin@@


    Yet they couldn¡¯t take any action either. Looking at what happened to Zhu Hongyun, they could see that. They even forced Zhu Hongyun to smash her own family kitchen.


    This was too horrific!


    They¡¯d only received a Braised Pork recipe, yet they were used of being greedy, such injustice!


    Unbeknownst to Tong Dng and his wife, Qiao Xiaomai and Tong Sang were heading towards Zhu Family Vige on an ox cart.


    Darkness quickly fell, and Tong Sang lit thentern.


    Thentern¡¯s light was barely enough to illuminate their path, coupled with the rugged road. In order to avoid any difort for Zhu Hongyun, Tong Sang was driving the ox cart very slowly.


    The entire way, Qiao Xiaomai didn¡¯t utter a word.


    She just nkly stared at the blurry crops by the roadside, remaining silent.


    Zhu Hongyun was curled up, quietly weeping. It was really terrifying, the thought of being forced to ruin her own family¡¯s kitchen. How could she face her family in the future?


    And how would the people of the Zhu Vige view her?


    Everybody knew that the Tong family was doing well, even though they had fallen on hard times, they were still better off than most families. Now, she was even pregnant and was forced to apologize in public by her younger siblings. God, she could never go back to the Zhu Vige again.


    She was too ashamed!


    Biting her lips, Zhu Hongyun spoke up, ¡°Xiaomai, you¡­¡±


    ¡°Give it up, begging me is useless,¡± Qiao Xiaomai interrupted her as soon as Zhu Hongyun said her name. ¡°Reasoning doesn¡¯t work with people like you. The only way is to fight.¡±


    ¡°This time, after I beat you half to death, let¡¯s see if you dare to stir up trouble again.¡±


    Zhu Hongyun was left speechless.


    She bit her lip again, remaining silent.


    Damn it.


    Damn it!


    Her impression of Qiao Xiaomai wasrgely based on the weak and ipetent original host that Zhu Cuiying had described to her. So even though Qiao Xiaomai now had significant backing, she was still daring enough to provoke Zhang Shi to act against Qiao Xiaomai.


    But at this moment, she was truly afraid.

 Chapter 703: Kicking Open the Front Door

    Chapter 703: Chapter 703: Kicking Open the Front Door


    This Qiao Xiaomai really is¡­


    She¡¯spletely transformed, like a whole different person.


    Why can the mouse that everyone could have easily stepped on now fly onto the branch?


    Why¡­


    Why does Qiao Xiaomai get to fly onto the branch while her own life only gets worse?


    She won¡¯t ept it!


    This grudge must be settled!


    Qiao Xiaomai had no idea what Zhu Hongyun was thinking. After standing up to her, she turned her gaze to the blurry crops by the wayside.


    The ox cart moved slowly, it took them a whole hour to get to Zhu Vige.<div>


    By now, people in the vige had finished their meals and were ready to rest. Qiao Xiaomai signaled to Tong Sang to make some noise.


    If they were to stir up trouble by ruining the kitchen, it was necessary to get a crowd from the vige to witness it. There has to be spectators to enjoy themotion.


    Tong Sang headed directly to the Vige Chief¡¯s home with the ox cart, asking the Vige Chief to maintain justice.


    Sine they came to cause trouble in Zhu Vige, they needed to exin the whole situation to the Vige Chief so he wouldn¡¯t think that the Tong Family was deliberately bullying people in Zhu Vige.


    After all, Zhu Vige was all Zhu surnamed people. When faced with external affairs, they always held together.


    The Vige Chief was just about to rest when Tong Sang told him about the situation, leaving him speechless.


    ¡°Grandfather suggested that Zhu Hongyun should move temporarily to her parents¡¯ house. My Tong Family¡¯s house is too small; it¡¯s not fair to her,¡± said Tong Sang.


    On hearing this, the Vige Chief just felt extremely embarrassed. It was as if his face was on fire.


    The girl from Zhu Vige had been so thoughtless; this caused him to lose face.


    ¡°Alright, alright, do as you see fit.¡±


    He couldn¡¯t say anything. At this point, he could only let Tong Sang handle the situation as he figured best.


    Tong Sang gave a smile, thanked the Vige Chief, jumped onto the roof of the Vige Chief¡¯s house, and started to shout out.


    Zhu Vige wasn¡¯t that big, and he used his inner force to project his voice extremely far. Everyone in the vige heard it.


    Curiosity was an inherent trait of their people. Even those who had already gone to bed got up at this time.


    Then Tong Sang drove the ox cart and went with the Vige Chief to Zhu Hongyun¡¯s house.


    Zhu Hongyun¡¯s family used to be extremely poor in Zhu Vige. After Zhu Hongyun married into the Tong Family, her standard of living significantly improved. Not only did they build a new tiled house, but Zhu Hongyun¡¯s brother, Zhu Hongfu, also got married.


    But although their living conditions had improved, the family still struggled on theirnd, and there was no significant improvement in their everyday lives.


    However, ever since they started selling Braised Pork, the family¡¯s living conditions greatly improved. They had meat every day and made dozens of pennies.


    Qiao Xiaomai stood in front of Zhu Hongyun¡¯s house, looking at this brand new tiled house, a trace of cold smile surfaced at the corners of her mouth, ¡°No wonder Tong Eng¡¯s private money was spent so quickly. It turns out it was used here.¡±


    How much could be spent on food and drink? Moreover, the Tong Family was already well fed.


    What Zhu Hongyun had previously imed that Tong Eng¡¯s private money was spent on food and drink waspletely bullshit.


    ¡°Tong Sang, why can Zhu Hongyun pawn from her mother¡¯s family and I am expected to subsidize the Tong Family?¡± she asked again.


    Tong Sang remained silent. He went up and knocked on the door, ¡°Brother Hongfu, open the door!¡±


    The gate was pounded continuously, but there was no response from inside the courtyard.


    Now, because of Tong Sang¡¯s announcement a while ago, the front of Zhu Hongyun¡¯s parental home had already gathered a crowd.


    Everyone in the vige had heard it, it was impossible for the people at Zhu Hongyun¡¯s parental home not to have.


    They were just pretending and refusing to open the door.


    Qiao Xiaomai sneered, ¡°Tong Sang, kick it!¡±


    Tong Sang raised his foot and kicked straight at the courtyard gate.


    The wooden gate could not withstand his strength. With a kick, the whole gate made a cracking sound, and then fell on the ground with a ¡°bang¡±.@@novelbin@@


    Seeing this, Qiao Xiaomai turned to Zhu Hongyun, ¡°Zhu Hongyun, go and destroy it.¡±

 Chapter 704: Tear Down This House for Me!

    Chapter 704: Chapter 704: Tear Down This House for Me!


    Zhu Hongyun sat on the oxcart, hunched over, her head buried in her arm, silent.


    Qiao Xiaomai raised an eyebrow, ¡°Not going to break anything, huh? Tong Sang, kick open all the doors in her house and grab any silver you see.¡±


    ¡°I refuse to believe this family is still ying dead.¡±


    Tong Sang held antern in his hand. Upon hearing this, he stepped into the courtyard, appearing ghostlike, and in the blink of an eye, he was at the door of the hall.


    He raised his foot and kicked straight at the door of the hall.


    Compared to the courtyard door, the hall door was sturdier.


    However, this ¡°sturdiness¡± made no difference in front of Tong Sang. With his strength, the door of the hall first made a cracking sound, then copsed with a bang.


    The loud noise caused Zhu Hongyun¡¯s body to involuntarily shudder twice.


    Qiao Xiaomai scoffed, ¡°I¡¯ll tell you, if you keep ying turtle, I¡¯ll have Tong Sang tear down your house, leaving only the kitchen. After all, this house was built with Tong Family¡¯s silver, so Tong Sang has every right to tear it down.¡±<div>


    At these words, Tong Sang instantly returned to the courtyard entrance. He suggested, ¡°How about we strip off the roof tiles?¡±


    ¡°Take them off, reduce her house to rubble,¡± Qiao Xiaomai chuckled.


    She was harboring an indescribable anger and found dismantling the house more satisfying than chopping down trees or smashing crates.


    If she could fly, she would¡¯ve done it herself.@@novelbin@@


    Upon hearing this, Tong Sang agreed immediately. He handed her thentern and, under the moonlight, leaped onto the roof of the hall.


    With one sweep of his foot, the tiles fell like rain, crashing to the ground with a clear shattering sound.


    The noise echoed in Zhu Hongyun¡¯s ears ¨C incredibly grating.


    But to Qiao Xiaomai, it was as delightful as music.


    She shouted out in delight, ¡°Keep tearing it down!¡±


    As her words fell, Tong Sang drew the flexible sword from his waist. The sh of the de sent another batch of tiles soaring into the air before falling to the ground like dumplings.


    Themotion was loud, particrly piercing in the quiet night.


    Zhu Hongyun trembled some more, and the onlooking vigers held their breaths.


    They were seriously doing it¡­


    No regard for familial ties at all.


    When they heard Tong Sang¡¯s deration, they thought it was a joke, considering his lower status. Yet, who would¡¯ve thought he¡¯d actually carry it out.


    Those tworge doors, all those tiles, oh my, how much silver would it take to fix all that!


    What a heartbreak!


    Not just the vigers thought so, Zhu Hongyun felt the same way.


    As did Zhu Hongyun¡¯s mother and Zhu Hongfu, who had been ying dead all this while.


    They initially thought Tong Sang had no other choice but to yield to them, who would have guessed Tong Sang could unleash such destructive power!


    Zhu Hongfu threw on a robe and dashed outside, ¡°Tong Sang, don¡¯t push us too far! You have no right to run wild on Zhu Family¡¯s territory!¡±


    His usatory tone made Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s anger re. She called out at once, ¡°Tong Sang!¡±


    Tong Sang raised his sword again, sending a swirl of des that caused more tiles to fall, a few nearly hitting Zhu Hongfu, who had to duck and evade.


    Tong Sang looked at the scene, his face expressionless, ¡°Hongfu brother, you stole my wife¡¯s Braised Pork recipe to make money, and you think you still have the moral high ground?¡±


    ¡°Who stole it? Who stole it? Clearly Hongyun taught it fair and square. If you¡¯re not satisfied, take it up with Hongyun, why bring it to Zhu Family Vige!¡±


    [Another three chapters~ It should be this way, updating three, three chapters at a time, I¡¯ll update nine in total!]

 Chapter 705: Shameless

    Chapter 705: Chapter 705: Shameless


    Zhu Hongfu¡¯s words were utterly shameless. Zhu Hongyun taught him the recipe, and he made money from it on his own. Now that Tong Sang, Qiao Xiaomai, came looking for him, he acted as if he had nothing to do with it.


    He shoved all the me onto Zhu Hongyun.


    His audacity truly matched Zhu Hongyun¡¯s. They were indeed family.@@novelbin@@


    ¡°Whoever profits from selling braised pork is the one I¡¯ll settle ounts with,¡± Qiao Xiaomai dered loudly. She jumped off the ox cart and said to Zhu Hongfu, ¡°Today, is it you who will smash your kitchen, or should Tong Sang tear down your house?¡±


    Zhu Hongfu didn¡¯t want to choose either option.


    He scoffed and ran to the door.


    Just as he suspected, arge group of vigers stood at the entrance.


    He blurted out, ¡°Fellow vigers, are you just going to stand by and watch these outsiders bully us in our own vige?¡±


    Nobody responded.<div>


    The Vige Chief Zhu was standing right there. If the Vige Chief agreed to this, what could they say?


    The Vige Chief Zhu sighed and began, ¡°Hongfu, your sister really is in the wrong here. Sang¡¯s wife kindly taught her the recipe, and she took it and sold the product in secret. Is this something a decent person would do?¡±


    ¡°Now that Sang and his wife havee, I suggest you do as they wish and trash your kitchen.¡±


    As his words fell and Zhu Hongfu was about to protest, the Vige Chief¡¯s expression turned cold, and he continued, ¡°Hongfu, Tong Sang just graduated as a schr, and he¡¯s the top-ranked Jieyuan. He¡¯s about to travel to Prefecture City for the imperial examination. If he bes a Juren, that will make him a high-ranking official.¡±


    ¡°Night has fallen, I advise you not to dy unnecessarily. Otherwise, the one to suffer in the end will be you.¡±


    A Juren¡ªa graduate of the prefecture examination¡ªis eligible to be a government official like a low-ranking clerk or a school superintendent. If he has connections, even the county magistrate¡¯s position is within reach.


    Thus, once someone bes a Juren, it usually means they¡¯ve half-stepped into officialdom and will be respectfully addressed as ¡°Master¡± by ordinary people.


    Tong Sang was the top scorer in the Huai¡¯an County examination. With such achievements at such a young age, it was entirely possible for him to be a Juren.


    So why would Zhu Hongfu, a small rustic farmer scratching a living from thend, even bother opposing Tong Sang?


    Especially when Zhu Hongfu was in the wrong in the first ce!


    He thought he could cause trouble under the pretense of being a rtive. There¡¯s no such easy prey in the world!


    What a fool!


    Stunned by the Vige Chief Zhu¡¯s words, Zhu Hongfu couldn¡¯t think straight.


    A schr?


    Tong Sang had be a schr?


    He hadn¡¯t heard about this. Zhu Hongyun had not leaked a word.


    And the Vige Chief even mentioned something about a Juren, oh goodness, that¡¯s a grand title!


    Recalling the fact that Qiao Xiaomai had once cooked for the retired emperor, Zhu Hongfu pped his thigh in regret, force a smile onto his face, ¡°Oh, Sang has be a schr? I didn¡¯t know, please don¡¯t be offended, sister-inw. Congrattions, congrattions, such a promising future you have!¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai, ¡°¡­¡±


    Zhu Hongfu continued, ¡°Sister, this incident is all Xiaoyun¡¯s doing. She came back to her parents¡¯ house in a huff, and when I told her to work in the field, she refused and insisted on selling braised pork to make money.¡±


    ¡°My mother indulges her, and let her do it. If I knew she had stolen the braised pork recipe from you, I would never have allowed her to behave this way.¡±


    ¡°We¡¯re all family, this sneaky behavior is too unsightly!¡±

 Chapter 706: Dogleg

    Chapter 706: Chapter 706: Dogleg


    Qiao Xiaomai ¡°¡­¡±


    How dare she brazenly use Zhu Hongyun! Just how thick-skinned can she be?


    And look how smoothly she switched her attitudes¡ªfrom overwhelming aggression to sycophancy¡ªwithout any awkwardness in between.


    ¡®Sang, little sister, if you two are angry, vent it on Xiaoyun. She¡¯s young and made a mistake. Don¡¯t hesitate because of any family sentiments, punish her as you see necessary.¡¯


    Seeing both Qiao Xiaomai and Tong Sang remain silent, Zhu Hongfu hurriedly continued.


    ¡®As for the kitchen, smash it if you please. Smash it any way you like!¡¯


    Qiao Xiaomai scoffed, retorting, ¡®We won¡¯t do it. Your Zhu Family can have at it.¡¯


    ¡®Fine, fine, fine. You two must be tired from the ox cart journey, rest now. Xiaoyun and I will handle it.¡¯ Zhu Hongfu agreed hastily, then sternly called Zhu Hongyun, ¡®Xiaoyun! Didn¡¯t you hear me? Get down from there!¡¯


    Zhu Hongyun, who had been feigning death all this time, finally reacted upon hearing his words, slowly straightening herself.<div>


    Seeing this, Qiao Xiaomaimented, ¡®She¡¯s pregnant, don¡¯t overwork her.¡¯


    ¡®Rest assured, sister. A few smashes from her will suffice, I¡¯ll handle the rest! tes, bowls, pots and pans, I¡¯ll smash them all!¡¯ Zhu Hongfu patted his chest to assure Qiao Xiaomai. ¡®Xiaoyun has been spoiled and doesn¡¯t know any better. You and Sang, please don¡¯t stoop to her level.¡¯


    ¡®She¡¯s always the one causing trouble. I have no time for her antics. Sang and I are off to Prefecture City to take the exams theseing days.¡¯ Qiao Xiaomai crossed her arms, aloof and haughty.


    Of course, she was speaking the truth.


    As for Zhu Hongyun, as long as she doesn¡¯t go out of her way to cause trouble, Qiao Xiaomai could hardly spare any time for her.


    Zhu Hongfu heard this, his face featuting a broad smile as he continually praised Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s generosity and Tong Sanng¡¯s intelligence. He also wished for Tong Sang to pass the civil examination.


    Qiao Xiaomai had no patience for such ttery and promptly said, ¡®Get to it!¡¯


    ¡®Yes, yes, yes,¡¯ Zhu Hongfu quickly pulled Zhu Hongyun down from the ox cart and briskly entered the courtyard.


    ¡®Sang, you as well,e down from the roof. You and sister watch from the entrance, see how I¡¯ll destroy the kitchen.¡¯


    At his words, Tong Sang swiftly descended from the roof like a swallow and positioned himself at the kitchen door.


    Seeing this, Zhu Hongfu hurriedly lit a kerosenemp.@@novelbin@@


    Under the light of themp, he gritted his teeth, lifted a bowl from the house, and flung it hard onto the floor.


    The coarse porcin bowl shattered on the ground with a clear, ringing sound.


    He then pushed over the cab.


    He dragged out the iron pot, found a hammer, and smashed it with all his might.


    Even the tables in the kitchen were reduced to splinters within a few swings.


    Then he hurried to the doorway and nced at Tong Sang, wearing a smile, ¡®Sang, you see, I¡¯ve smashed everything I could.¡¯


    ¡®The stove is still intact.¡¯


    ¡®That¡­¡¯ Zhu Hongfu¡¯s face showed difficulty, ¡®The stove was built with bricks. I can¡¯t smash it.¡¯


    ¡®Get a sledgehammer, a few hits should do it,¡¯ Tong Sang said, expressionless.


    Led by his words, Zhu Hongfu gritted his teeth and nodded, ¡®Done!¡¯


    He picked up a sledgehammer, and went on to attack the stove, time and time again.


    The stove built of green bricks couldn¡¯t withstand his onught and was quickly reduced to rubble.


    With pots, bowls, table, cab, and even the stove smashed, the Zhu Family¡¯s kitchen was ruined.


    Tong Sang was satisfied, announcing, ¡®That will do.¡¯


    Zhu Hongfu, dripping with sweat now, wiped his brow hearing this. He was still careful to wear a appeasing smile, ¡®If you¡¯re satisfied, then it¡¯s settled.¡¯


    ¡®From now on, cooking braised pork is off limits,¡¯ Tong Sang cautioned.


    ¡®Yes, yes, yes. You can count on it. We¡¯ll cook it for ourselves only and won¡¯t sell it anymore!¡¯ Zhu Hongfu said in a definitive tone.

 Chapter 710: Our Home

    Chapter 710: Chapter 710: Our Home


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry for putting you in such a difficult position, like a jam sandwich cookie.¡± Thinking of the redness in his eyes that evening, her smile froze on her face.


    Being a jam sandwich cookie, it truly felt awful.


    ¡°It¡¯s not your fault,¡± Tong Sang said nothing.


    The incident was stirred up by his family, expecting Qiao Xiaomai to tolerate it?


    Should he watch his mother bringing Qiao Zhaodi and Qiao Yindi to the public trial?


    Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s approach at the time was indeed rough, but he could not find a better solution.


    If another method was adopted, his mother would definitely create a mess, dragging the issue into an unsolvable dilemma.


    And then there¡¯s Zhu Hongyun.


    A sister-inw, actually making such a move against Qiao Xiaomai.<div>


    His mother was Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s mother-inw, and it¡¯s justified if she wanted something from Qiao Xiaomai. But for Zhu Hongyun, just a sister-inw, to take advantage like this, it was going too far.


    Qiao Xiaomai had given Zhu Hongyun chances. Previously, when Qiao Xiaomai cornered Zhu Hongyun in the kitchen of the Zuixian Building, Zhu Hongyun not only didn¡¯t admit her fault but also used Qiao Xiaomai of being heartless and ungrateful.@@novelbin@@


    Qiao Xiaomai endured it.


    Later, Zhu Hongyun took advantage of her pregnancy to sell braised pork and malt sugar in the vige, Qiao Xiaomai couldn¡¯t be bothered to deal with her, and endured it again.


    Zhu Hongyun took these two instances of tolerance as encouragement, and that¡¯s why she started scheming against Qiao Xiaomai when she returned.


    Qiao Xiaomai had her reasons to be upset.


    So, when she got angry, she hit back for all the times she had tolerated before.


    Did Qiao Xiaomai hit too hard?


    On the surface, it seemed pretty harsh, but can you me Qiao Xiaomai?


    Zhu Hongyun, who Qiao Xiaomai had already endured, jumped in front of Qiao Xiaomai again herself.


    So, Qiao Xiaomai didn¡¯t go too far.


    It¡¯s not her fault.


    The real mistake lies with his family.


    His family, like leeches, wanted to suck Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s blood, seeking to gain without work and only thinking about demanding.


    His family didn¡¯t consider his feelings at all.


    The reason he became a sandwich cookie, was because of his family.


    Why should he expect Qiao Xiaomai to endure?


    Her soul is from another world.


    ¡°My family¡­ should be educated. They¡¯re not conscious enough,¡± he said again.


    ¡°Then I¡¯ll have a chance to talk to grandfather, let him reason it out thoroughly for them. Money and respect, you have to earn it yourself,¡± Qiao Xiaomai said, ¡°As long as they change this mentality, our family can soon prosper.¡±


    Our family.


    Upon hearing these three words, Tong Sang smiled.


    After they cleared up the misunderstanding, the atmosphere between them was far from awkward.


    Qiao Xiaomai then brought out some food, and leaning on Tong Sang¡¯s shoulder, they ate and whispered to each other.


    They did not mention today¡¯s incident, it¡¯s over, it¡¯s all over.


    Members from the Tong Family probably won¡¯te to them again.


    The members of the Zhu Family also won¡¯t.


    They could just skip this part and go on with their lives as they did in the evening.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go straight back to the vige, and early tomorrow, haul some stuff to the manor.¡±


    ¡°Okay,¡± replied Tong Sang.


    When they returned to the vige it was alreadyte at night, they quickly freshened up and went straight to bed.


    They didn¡¯t do anything, just slept.


    The sleeping position was side by side, holding each other.


    While this position was not veryfortable, both of them wanted to be closer to each other, closer, even closer.


    It was already bright after two hours of sleep. The two did not cook breakfast, they grabbed something to eat from the storage, and after eating, they loaded things onto the cattle cart and headed to the manor.


    [I¡¯ve updated 12 chapters today!]

 Chapter 711 - 711 Only She Can Abandon Me

    Chapter 711: Chapter 711 Only She Can Abandon Me


    The two bumped into Qiao Changshun, who was driving an ox cart, at the entrance of the vige.


    After Tong Tiehu scolded Tong Xingdast night, he drove the cart taking Qiao Zhaodi and Qiao Yindi to the manor. When they recounted the situation, Qiao Changshun and Zhuang Luhe became frantic. How could this have happened!


    But for all their worries, they were powerless. All they could do was wait.


    After a restless night, having eaten breakfast, Qiao Changshun hurried back to Anping Vige today.


    ¡°We¡¯re fine,¡± Qiao Xiaomai assured him.


    ¡°Did you two really go to Zhu Family Vige and smash their house?¡± Qiao Changshun asked.


    ¡°Of course we did. Else, why would we even bother making such a long trip in the middle of the night?¡± Qiao Xiaomai responded with a matter-of-fact tone.


    On hearing this, Qiao Changshun paused, then pped his thigh in dismay, ¡°Sang is now a schr. How could he be involved in such a crude act! Besides, they are family, this¡­¡±


    ¡°Enough,¡± Qiao Xiaomai interrupted him impatiently, ¡°So, it¡¯s okay for Zhu Hongyun to conspire against Zhaodi and Yindi, but it¡¯s not okay for me to retaliate by smashing her house? What kind of robber logic is this!¡±<div>


    ¡°What¡¯s your n? Just stand by and watch as Zhaodi and Yindi get thrown in jail, or get flogged?¡±


    ¡°They did not steal anything, we can exin that.¡±


    ¡°Exin how? You think you can exin it to Sang¡¯s mother who¡¯s been hurling usations with her hands on her hips?¡± Qiao Xiaomai rolled his eyes, ¡°Fine, fine, you and mama need not worry about this. Now that we¡¯re back in the vige, Sang, help dad with the cart.¡±


    Tong Sang responded affirmatively, handed the reins to Qiao Xiaomai, climbed onto Qiao Changshun¡¯s ox cart and said, ¡°Dad, let¡¯s go.¡±


    Qiao Changshun ¡°¡­¡±


    Looking at the impatient Qiao Xiaomai, he sighed, ¡°You go on then, your mama has cooked. She left some for you and Sang.¡±


    ¡°I know,¡± was all Qiao Xiaomai said as he flicked the reins, and the ox cart dashed off towards the manor.


    Qiao Changshun couldn¡¯t help but sigh, ¡°Sang, ever since Xiaomai took charge of our family, she¡¯s been somewhat domineering. She is stubborn, reckless and doesn¡¯t think about the consequences. Please don¡¯t take her words to heart.¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s great,¡± Tong Sang smiled, ¡°She¡¯s not unreasonable, she won¡¯t lose her temper without cause.¡±


    ¡°Well, that¡¯s true, but she¡¯s overly aggressive when she gets angry. Try to advise her more.¡±


    Men, after all, prefer their women to be a bit more gentle. He genuinely feared that if Qiao Xiaomai continued this way, Tong Sang might grow weary of her.


    ¡°Alright.¡± Tong Sangplied.


    He hoped that Qiao Xiaomai would never lose her temper like she didst night. He wanted her to experience only the beauty and goodness this world had to offer.


    He hoped to provide a safe haven for her, where she wouldn¡¯t be disturbed. And he had a long journey ahead of him.


    ¡°Dad, rest assured, I know your concerns. Xiaomai and I will support each other no matter what happens; this will never change. Truth be told, even if I someday pass the imperial exam, considering her strong will, I¡¯d still be the one who is lucky to have her.¡±


    ¡°Only she can leave me, not the other way around.¡±


    At Tong Sang¡¯s candid remark, Qiao Changshun felt a bit awkward and uneasily rubbed his hands, ¡°Stop with the nonsense. It¡¯s good the way you two are.¡±


    ¡°It will get even better.¡± Tong Sang pursed his lips. His eyes were full of resolve.@@novelbin@@


    Meanwhile, Qiao Xiaomai arrived at the manor where Zhuang Luhe was leading Qiao Zhaodi and Qiao Yindi in making Dried Sweet Potatoes. On seeing her arrive and learning that she hadn¡¯t eaten breakfast yet, Luhe served the food she had kept for her.

 Chapter 712: Fresh Soy Milk

    Chapter 712: Chapter 712: Fresh Soy Milk


    Just like Qiao Changshun, he wanted to advise Qiao Xiaomai in a long-winded way.


    Qiao Xiaomai repeated the same thing she just said to Qiao Changshun word for word, leaving Zhuang Luhe speechless.


    ¡°Mother, sisters Zhaodi and Yindi are both hard-working and diligent, can you bear to see them being bullied?¡± Qiao Xiaomai asked as she dug into her egg custard with a spoon.


    Zhuang Luhe shook her head.


    ¡°That¡¯s settled then. They are now my people. I have to protect them. You and father will live here from now on. You can deal with the vigers whoe to work, there¡¯s no need to interact with the people from the Tong family.¡±


    Zhuang Luhe ¡°¡­¡±


    After some thought, she still advised, ¡°Sister-inw has be a schr, he will continue to rise in the future. If you continue to be so aggressive, he might get put off.¡±


    ¡°Let him dare be put off by me!¡± Qiao Xiaomai arched her eyebrows, scoffed lightly, and disyed a domineering demeanor.


    Zhuang Luhe ¡°¡­¡±<div>


    She pressed her lips tightly and fell silent.


    All her fault, she ran away, forcing this change in her daughter¡¯s character, no longer able to trace the girl she was before.


    It¡¯s her fault.


    Qiao Xiaomai nced at her, knowing that she had started to feel ufortable again, so she changed the topic, ¡°By the way, have the beans dried yet? What about the sesame seeds, are they dry?¡±


    ¡°They¡¯re dry.¡±


    ¡°Soak some beans. I want to make tofu, soy milk and tofu skin to try.¡± The taste of sweet potatoes was so stunning, so the vor of soybeans would definitely not be inferior.


    And sesame seeds, sesame paste, sesame oil, the taste is definitely amazing.


    Upon hearing this, Zhuang Luhe sighed, ¡°Then I¡¯ll go soak them.¡±


    ¡°Go ahead.¡± Qiao Xiaomai nodded, sitting at the entrance of the warehouse, watching Qiao Zhaodi and Qiao Yindi busy themselves, tutting once.


    She had made this manor like a paradise, all Zhuang Luhe and Qiao Changshun had to do was sit back and enjoy their blessings, so why worry unnecessarily?


    Who can¡¯t live without whom?


    With these thoughts, she quickly finished the custard in the bowl, then stood up and ran off to wash the sesame seeds.


    She nned to send some of these agricultural products to Yang Ye, and before leaving, she must see Xiaoyang, the guard. She and Tong Sang were leaving for a month, and she didn¡¯t know how the dyed dried sweet potatoes she had sent would fare.


    If there was any follow-up to be done, Qiao Changshun and Zhuang Luhe would have to take over.


    So in the morning, Qiao Xiaomai washed some sesame seeds, dried them, and Tong Sang and Qiao Changshun were busy moving furniture.


    In the afternoon, once the sesame seeds were dry, Qiao Xiaomai collected them and sent Tong Sang to grind them in the town.


    She had never ground sesame oil, and the vigers used to exchange sesame seeds for sesame oil in the town.


    Once Tong Sang was gone, she started grinding soy milk.@@novelbin@@


    The task was rather easy for her, but Qiao Changshun insisted on using a donkey wheel for grinding, to save her the effort. So, she just stood aside and watched.


    Very quickly, a bucket full of smooth white soy milk was produced, all flowing into a wooden barrel under the stone mill.


    After filtering out the soy pulp with fine linen, she started boiling the soy milk in a pot.


    The kitchen was open air, just a shed set up at the entrance of the warehouse, so as soon as the soy milk started boiling, the aroma wafted out.


    Qiao Dami woke up from his nap, originally busy copying arge character, but couldn¡¯t continue when he smelled the pleasant aroma, and ran to the stove, insisting on helping Qiao Xiaomai stoke the fire.


    ¡°You and father go and fetch a few buckets of water.¡± Qiao Xiaomai sent him off.


    They couldn¡¯t finish a pot of soy milk as a family, so they were going to send some to Miao Dali¡¯s engineering teamter.


    And also to those whoe to work, each get a bowl too.


    All the crops from the one hundred and fifty acres of farnd here had been harvested, and in another couple of days, it would be time to go and harvest millet from the other fields.

 Chapter 714: The Sale of Soybeans

    Chapter 714: Chapter 714: The Sale of Soybeans


    This year, we nted fifty acres of soybeans. The yield of soybeans was average, with only three to four hundred pounds per acre, the total from fifty acres didn¡¯t even reach 20,000 pounds.


    We can¡¯t possibly finish eating it all at home, so we must sell some.


    But before selling it, we have to gift some to Yang Ye. We can¡¯t skimp on it; otherwise, Yang Ye will definitely make a fuss.


    We also need to send some to the Emperor Emeritus, for she loves drinking soy milk.


    Having sent some to the big shots in the capital and kept enough for ourselves, the rest can be sold for money.


    Initially, I was under the impression that we¡¯d reap plenty from our 150 acres, but other than sweet potatoes, the yield of everything else has been too low!


    Exasperatingly low!


    What can you do with 3,000 pounds of sesame and 20,000 pounds of soybeans?


    Arbitrarily hand out a bit here, eat a bit there, and they¡¯ll be gone in no time.<div>


    Goodness!


    While Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s mind was wandering, Tong Sang and Qiao Changshun brought over the soy milk and tofu pudding.


    Shopkeeper He is also an esteemed guest to the Qiao family, so it wouldn¡¯t do to neglect him. Thus, Qiao Changshun also came.@@novelbin@@


    ¡°Oh my, this smells simply divine!¡± Before even tasting the soy milk, Shopkeeper He started singing praises. As soon as it entered his mouth, he disregarded its still scalding temperature and immediately drank it all in one go.


    He then casually wiped his mouth with his sleeve, giving Qiao Changshun a thumbs up. ¡°Brother Qiao, you indeed know how to farm. This is what real soy milk tastes like, all the soy milk I had before was a waste!¡±


    Thesepliments hit home for Qiao Changshun. As a farmer, nothing is more rewarding than having your crops and cultivation praised.


    ¡°The credit goes to thend, the soil here is great.¡± Qiao Changshun modestly replied.


    ¡°No, no, no, it¡¯s Brother Qiao¡¯s farming skills. Never before has this plot ofnd produced such outstanding crops.¡± This 150 acres plot, originally exchanged from the Extreme Taste Residence, was just average farnd. But for it to produce such crops was truly amazing!


    After praising Qiao Changshun, Shopkeeper He eagerly picked up a bowl of tofu pudding. He loved tofu pudding, having eaten several bowls every time when Qiao Xiaomai initially sold it.


    Having eaten tofu pudding for half a year, he never grew tired of it.


    But the moment this bowl of silky, aromatic tofu pudding hit his taste buds, his eyes widened instantly. He quickly gave Qiao Changshun another thumbs-up. The taste was phenomenal!


    Compared to this bowl of tofu pudding, all the tofu puddings he had eaten before were a waste!


    Qiao Xiaomai was truly miraculous. Everything she cooked was heavenly, making it impossible for him to resist!


    After wolfing down a bowl of tofu pudding, Shopkeeper He wiped the corner of his mouth, smiling like the Maitreya Buddha, ¡°Miss Qiao, we need to also discuss about this soybean.¡±


    ¡°2,000 pounds.¡± Qiao Xiaomai gave her bottom line.


    With less than 20,000 pounds of soybeans, once Yang Ye and the Emperor Emeritus tasted them, they would undoubtedly request more. She needed to consider how much would be left for the pce and for her family consumption; she was unsure if it wouldst for a year.


    The next harvest of soybeans wouldn¡¯t be ready until next autumn.


    ¡°1,000 pounds for the sesame.¡± Sesame could be used for oil, not eaten as a meal. Even if the pce required some, it wouldn¡¯t need too much. Therefore, she could spare a bit more for the Extreme Taste Residence.


    Upon hearing these two numbers, the smile on Shopkeeper He¡¯s face instantly froze.


    Then he couldn¡¯t help but p his thigh, ¡°Oh my goodness! What can these mere 2,000 pounds do?!¡±


    The Extreme Taste Residence in Bailu Town could use up all in just a month.


    That¡¯s not even enough to fill the gaps between the teeth!


    A troubled expression emerged on Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s face, ¡°Shopkeeper He, even calling your ancestors won¡¯t help. This is already scraped from the bottom of the barrel. You know, I still have to supply to the higher-ups in the pce!¡±

 Chapter 716: Never Seen Anyone So Good at Grabbing Money

    Chapter 716: Chapter 716: Never Seen Anyone So Good at Grabbing Money


    Qiao Xiaomai also lowered her voice so as not to scare away Shopkeeper He. ¡°Shopkeeper, you see my dried sweet potatoes are sold at 300 wen per jin, so the sweet potatoes as raw material shouldn¡¯t be priced too much less, don¡¯t you think?¡±


    Shopkeeper He held his breath and didn¡¯t respond.


    Since Qiao Xiaomai had brought it up, it was clear that she was about to name a high price.


    Sure enough, the next moment, Qiao Xiaomai parted her rosy lips and threw out a price that made Shopkeeper He wish he could roll on the ground in distress. ¡°Sweet potatoes for 250 wen per jin, sesame seeds for 500 wen per jin, beans for 600 wen per jin.¡±


    ¡°Miss Qiao, you¡¯re basically mugging us!¡± Shopkeeper He stroked his chest uncontrobly. He had to calm down, otherwise this shocking price would leave him short of breath and in danger of suffocating!


    ¡°Ah, Shopkeeper, it¡¯s not fair to say that. Far from mugging you, I¡¯m actually losing money! Think about it, a jin of soybeans can produce three jin of tofu. With such quality, it should only cost 200 wen per jin.¡±


    ¡°The tofu pudding that you just had, priced at 200 wen per jin, would the rich folk say it¡¯s expensive? Even you, though might have to grit your teeth and stamp your feet, wouldn¡¯t you be willing to buy a bowl from time to time?¡±


    Shopkeeper He ¡°¡­¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai always had a knack for breaking down scary numbers into smaller figures he could ept.<div>


    This skill surpasses even those well-educateddies of high society!


    ¡°And my sweet potatoes, I simply processed them a little, took some time, and I could sell each jin for an additional 50 wen. Do I really care about a bit of time? I definitely do not.¡±


    ¡°This is all because we have known each other for a long time and cooperated numerous times, which is why I¡¯m willing to sell to you at a loss of 50 wen. If Shopkeeper Zhou from Zuixian Building came over, I wouldn¡¯t sell him a jin of sweet potatoes.¡±


    ¡°And the sesame seeds, the oil produced from these seeds attracts people to stand in front of the oil shop for a long while. If this oil is added to the dishes, won¡¯t it draw people to stay at your establishment?¡±


    ¡°So, am I asking for too much at 500 wen? Am I?¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai leaned over with a smile, and in a corner where Qiao Changshun couldn¡¯t see, she winked at Shopkeeper He. ¡°This is truly a special price for you considering our good rtionship. There is no other ce you could find these things, except for the royal family.¡±@@novelbin@@


    ¡°The amount of silver you can make from these things will certainly exceed the cost of buying them.¡±


    On receiving Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s hint, Shopkeeper He ¡°¡­¡±


    Listening to her analysis, it does seem like his establishment is getting a great bargain.


    He¡¯s notpletely sure about the exact amount of profit he can make from the soybeans and sesame seeds, but he definitely profits from the sweet potatoes.


    Sweet potatoes can be stored until springtime. If Qiao Xiaomai takes her time and dries the sweet potatoes, then hundreds of thousands of jin of sweet potatoes won¡¯t be a problem to sell.


    Especially during winter, time spent leisurely making dried sweet potatoes is actually a very profitable and easy business.


    Selling them at 250 wen per jin now is indeed a loss of 50 wen.


    However¡­


    The price truly sounds like robbery!


    In his more than ten years in business, he¡¯s never encountered such a master at making money!


    Impressive!


    ¡°Alright then, we¡¯ll go with the prices Miss Qiao mentioned.¡± He finally opened his mouth.


    Seeing as Qiao Xiaomai had already offered the ¡®friendship price¡¯, she indeed saw his establishment as her own.


    The young master of his establishment marrying such a woman is indeed something to be admired!


    [The Tong Family is not allowed to be in contact with the establishment, so Qiao Xiaomai and Shopkeeper He are doing business in a fair and transparent manner~]

 Chapter 717: The Unaffordable Soybean

    Chapter 717: Chapter 717: The Unaffordable Soybean


    It was alreadyte, and although the deal was done, it was clear that there was no time to transport the goods or give the silver today. Shopkeeper He stayed a while longer, then left with a pot of tofu pudding.


    The sun had set, it was time to light themps.


    The workday for Miao Dali¡¯s engineering team had ended. Here, there¡¯s no such thing as an eight-hour shift; when it gets dark, that¡¯s when work ends.


    Before Miao Dali left, he came to see Qiao Xiaomai once, wanting to buy some soybeans.


    Half a year had passed since Qiao Xiaomai developed soy milk, tofu, and tofu pudding.


    At first, tofu and tofu pudding were made for the wealthy, hence the high price, which ordinary people could not afford.@@novelbin@@


    But the price of soybeans never rose, remaining at three wen per catty, making tofu and tofu pudding extremely profitable.


    And since only the wealthy could afford to eat this, the consumption of soybeans was limited.


    So Emperor Yong¡¯an stepped in, requiring the Extremely Tasty Restaurant and the Zuixian Building to lower the prices of tofu and tofu pudding.<div>


    <div>


    Following the Emperor¡¯smand, the two establishments did as instructed, lowering the prices of tofu to three wen per catty, and tofu pudding to two wen per bowl, prices even peasants could afford (steemav).


    Now that even the vigers could afford it, more people bought it, naturally leading to a greater consumption of soybeans.


    Because of this, the cultivated area for soybeans was significantly expanded after this year¡¯s spring harvest.


    However, the recipes for tofu and tofu pudding were still held by the Extremely Tasty Restaurant and Zuixian Building. If ordinary people wanted to taste these two things, they still had to go to the restaurant or the inn.


    But soy milk was a different story.


    Soy milk was too simple to make. There was no technological content involved. Why would the yellow soybeans turn into white water?


    They must have been crushed first.


    After some investigation, themon people quickly mastered the method of making soy milk.


    Miao Dali knew how to make soy milk too. After tasting the soy milk Qiao Changshun had sent this afternoon, he was immediately interested in buying some soybeans.


    After hearing Miao Dali¡¯s intentions, Qiao Xiaomai smiled.


    Although Miao Dali was the leader of the engineering team, his economic status was only a bit better than that of rural peasants, iparable to the wealthy in town.


    Soybeans for 600 wen per catty, when even pork was only 12 or 13 wen per catty. Trading 50 catties of pork for one catty of soybeans, the difference was too great.


    ¡°Uncle Miao, to be honest, apart from a better taste, my soybeans are no different from others. How about this, I¡¯ll give you twenty catties for free. Just don¡¯t spread the word and quietly make soy milk at home,¡± Qiao Xiaomai said.


    Her Spiritual Spring could not justify the ¡°spirit¡± in its name; apart from a better taste, it had no practical use. She didn¡¯t care about selling it to the wealthy for 600 wen, but when it came to ordinary people, she felt it was unfair.


    The products she grew were not meant for ordinary people; her market was targeted at the affluent in the Capital City.


    Miao Dali had been reliable and honest these past days.


    Moreover, she and Tong Sang were about to travel to Prefecture City. Qiao Changshun wasme, Zhuang Luhe was timid, and Qiao Dami, Little Qiao Zhaodi, and Qiao Yindi were simple-minded. She was not confident in leaving these people behind.


    Fortunately, the engineering team was around, with people avable both day and night. Therefore, by gifting these soybeans, she also hoped that Miao Dali would take good care of Qiao Changshun and the others.


    However, Miao Dali did not know her intentions, and upon hearing her offer, he shook his head and replied, ¡°No need to give them to me, I¡¯ll buy them.¡±


    He could afford to buy a bit of soybeans.


    Upon hearing this, Qiao Xiaomai gave a helpless smile, ¡°Uncle Miao, Shopkeeper He from the Extremely Tasty Restaurant in town just came by. The price I gave him was 600 wen per catty.¡±


    Miao Dali was left speechless¡­

 Chapter 720: Tasting Her Skills in the Capital City

    Chapter 720: Chapter 720: Tasting Her Skills in the Capital City


    For Tong Eng, the mistake Zhu Hongyun made this time was much bigger than thest one, so Tong Tiehu was very angry.


    Under these circumstances, all he could do was wait, just like thest time.


    Once Tong Tiehu¡¯s anger subsided, Zhu Hongyun¡¯s pregnancy would be noticeable. They were all family. If he truly brought Zhu Hongyun back, Tong Tiehu wouldn¡¯t believe that they would be kicked out.


    With this in mind, Tong Eng behaved himself.


    Tong Xingda had been scolded by Tong Tiehu. Although he was outraged, he could only bear it for a while.


    Qiao Xiaomai was resilient, so resilient that he didn¡¯t dare to confront her now.


    A gentleman¡¯s revenge is not toote even after ten years, just bear it for the time being!


    Tong Xingda had to bear it, and so did Zhang Family. Although Zhu Hongyun had instigated it, she was the main executor. After the effects of the Truth Elixir had passed, she was beaten up by Tong Xingda.


    But what could she do?<div>


    <div>


    Qiao Xiaomai had made such a harsh threat, Tong Xingda had to bear it, and so did she.


    So can be said, after that event, the Tong Family had a follow-up of only one word: endure.


    Tong Sang was satisfied with this situation. They could live peacefully without making a fuss or causing trouble. He and Qiao Xiaomai both desired a life consistency.


    After the visit to the Tong Family, he climbed over Rooster Mountain to see Deng Chun.


    He brought a bag of sweet potatoes.


    Deng Chun had always lived a wild person¡¯s life. The tools for preparing food were very crude. However, sweet potatoes were easy to handle and could even be eaten raw.


    Deng Chun didn¡¯t give him any blessings. He just told him to study well and then sent him away.


    After leaving Deng Chun¡¯s ce, he felt a little depressed.


    Truth be told, he did not really understand Deng Chun¡¯s persistence.


    Yet while not understanding, he was also somewhat shocked, he wondered, what kind of power could sustain Deng Chun through a lifetime in the wilderness willingly?


    With his martial arts skills, talent, and proficiency in music, chess, calligraphy, and painting, Deng Chun could have had a much more exciting life.


    With a sigh, he returned to the manor.


    That evening, when he mentioned this to Qiao Xiaomai, she said without hesitation, ¡°He is either bound by loyalty or feelings. The first seems unlikely. It¡¯s most likely because of feelings.¡±


    Love can shake heaven and earth.


    It can create miracles.


    It can make one willingly endure hardships.


    ¡°Alright, let¡¯s stop thinking about this, and focus on the Imperial Examination. All the schrs from the entire prefecture will be participating, this is like a province-level college entrance examination of future generations.¡±


    Furthermore, it¡¯s much more difficult than the college entrance examination ofter generations. In the Imperial Examination, only the top five were selected. Those who didn¡¯t make the cut got nothing, they had to repeat the curriculum for three years before retaking the examination.


    Under such severe conditions, diligent revision without distractions is necessary.


    Put other distractions aside until after the examination.


    Tong Sang understood this principle well. He discarded his distracting thoughts and devoted himself to studying.


    Capital City.


    Due to the urgent delivery from post stations, Yang Ye received the soybeans, sesame, and millet the next evening.


    These are verymon agricultural crops. If it weren¡¯t for Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s huge effort to send them, he wouldn¡¯t have shown any interest. But since Qiao Xiaomai had sent them all the way here, surely they must have some extraordinary qualities.


    He took a sampling of each and asked the kitchen to prepare some dishes from them.


    Soybeans needed to be soaked, sesame was mainly used for oil extraction, and among these, millet was the easier to handle.


    That evening, a dish of millet and date porridge was added to Yang Ye¡¯s dinner table.@@novelbin@@


    The fragrance was very familiar. Familiar to the point that Yang Ye raised his eyebrows and immediately brought the bowl of porridge from the edge of the table to his side.


    He scooped up a spoonful, and as the porridge entered his belly, he couldn¡¯t help but sigh gently.


    Finally, he could taste Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s cooking in the Capital City.


    Nostalgic.

 Chapter 723: Beating around the Bush and Making Trouble

    Chapter 723: Chapter 723: Beating around the Bush and Making Trouble


    Soon, a delicate breakfast was served.


    Yang Ye said, ¡°I went to the pce this morning and had breakfast with Grandpa Emperor. Third brother, you eat by yourself.¡±


    ¡°Eh, what did you do looking for Grandpa Emperor this morning?¡± Yang Wang asked.


    ¡°Just some idle chatter, you know me, always making up something when a thought strikes me.¡± Yang Ye said with a casual smile.


    ¡°Hey, that¡¯s not true. Who said you have no real business? Aren¡¯t you revising the ¡®Daqi Laws¡¯ under themand of our father emperor?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s not urgent.¡± Yang Ye leaned back in his chair and asked, ¡°Third brother, did youe to my residence for some business?¡±


    ¡°There is a small matter.¡± Yang Wang¡¯s face indicated hesitation as he put down his chopsticks and asked, ¡°How do you n to revise the ¡®Daqi Laws¡¯?¡±


    ¡°I will refine the rough parts and fill in the areas that were previously overlooked.¡± Yang Ye responded sinctly.


    ¡°I see.¡± Yang Wang nodded. ¡°Actually, I have a matter on which I can¡¯t make up my mind. I want to ask for your advice.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s the matter?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s like this. A while ago, I spent some time in a military camp and got to know a few soldiers. There¡¯s one foot soldier who loves his wife dearly, but she resents him for not being home often and for his capability. A few days ago, she eloped with another man with all the property at home.¡±


    ¡°However, the wife soon returned because the man she eloped with turned out to be a trickster and almost sold her off.¡±


    At this point, Yang Wang paused and looked at Yang Ye.


    Yang Ye nodded, ¡°And then?¡±


    ¡°Then this little soldier took her back without holding a grudge. But the soldier¡¯srades feel wronged. A woman who has eloped with another manes back and lives her life as if nothing wrong had beenmitted, as if there¡¯s no moral justice.¡±


    ¡°So they came to me and asked if I could sentence this woman. When I looked up the ¡®Daqi Laws¡¯, I found no rted provisions, so I came to ask you.¡±


    ¡°Look, clearly, this woman ditches the poor for the rich and is fickle-hearted, but just because the soldier loves her, her elopement is being brushed aside. But wrong is wrong, if we let the first time slide, maybe this woman will elope again in the future.¡±


    ¡°Plus, it sets a bad precedent. Imagine if other women take a cue from this, our Daqi would be in total chaos, wouldn¡¯t it?¡±@@novelbin@@


    ¡°She must be punished severely!¡±


    Yang Ye ¡°¡­.¡±


    He furrowed his eyebrows and said, ¡°This rule was expressly abolished by Grandpa Emperor when he established the ¡®Daqi Laws¡¯. I dare not add anything he abolished.¡±


    ¡°But wrong is wrong.¡±


    ¡°Yes, eloping with someone is wrong indeed. But the affairs between a husband and wife are like two people willing to fight and endure together, and others advising them is mere interfering. If anything is done to the wife, it¡¯s the soldier who will suffer in the end.¡±


    ¡°But this sets such a bad precedent! In the future, those married women, if any of them are dissatisfied, they might think of eloping, what then?¡± Yang Wang¡¯s face wore a darkened expression.


    Yang Ye smiled, ¡°But not every man is like that foot soldier.¡±


    This matter was tooplex. If a rigid rule was put in ce stipting actions, then someone like Zhuang L¨¹he would definitelymit suicide.


    Yet, the woman Yang Wang described was indeed hateful.


    However, Yang Wenxiao himself had abolished the previous dynasty¡¯s punishment for elopement. Adding that rule again would be like inviting trouble for himself.


    Besides, Yang Wang¡¯s motive didn¡¯t seem entirely pure.


    Could this story have been made up just to put Zhuang L¨¹he in a difficult situation?

 Chapter 724: The Woman Known as a Gold Mine

    Chapter 724: Chapter 724: The Woman Known as a Gold Mine


    Thinking about this possibility, Yang Ye found himself at a loss for words.


    Yang Wang is still persistent with the treasure issue, even though Grandpa Emperor has decided to let it go.


    ¡°Third Brother, I absolutely refuse to add this use to the ¡®Daqi Law¡¯. If you really pity that soldier, then you should go to Grandpa Emperor.¡±


    ¡°You are the one overseeing the amendments to the ¡®Daqi Law¡¯.¡±


    ¡°Yes, but the final terms have to be approved by our father and grandfather before they can be officially announced. My suggestion can only serve as a reference. The final decision still lies with them.¡±


    Yang Wang stared at Yang Ye, a look of discontent on his face.


    Yang Ye met his gaze, his handsome face etched with a measure of helplessness.


    A momentter, Yang Wang let out a sigh, ¡°Fine, I¡¯ll try talking to Grandpa Emperor.¡±


    ¡°By the way, I heard that Miss Xiaomai has developed something new with sweet potatoes?¡± He asked.


    ¡°Someone, serve some dried sweet potatoes.¡± Yang Ye immediately instructed a maid to bring a te.


    Qiao Xiaomai had managed to improve the color of the dried sweet potatoes this time. They no longer looked like rat droppings and were presentable for serving guests.


    With the previous color, he could only eat it alone. It was impossible to share with anyone else.@@novelbin@@


    To be exact, Qiao Xiaomai had uniformly dyed and produced slices this time, not the dried version.


    Yang Wang examined the carrot-colored dried sweet potato in his hand before putting it in his mouth. After tasting it, he eximed, ¡°Indeed, only Xiaomai could cook such an impressive food out of a simple sweet potato.¡±


    Yang Ye couldn¡¯t help but smile at this remark, reminding him, ¡°Third Brother, she is now married. You should address her as Mrs. Tong.¡±


    Yang Wang chuckled, ¡°What about Mister Tong? Let¡¯s wait until he outshines Miss Xiaomai.¡±


    Yang Ye: ¡°¡­¡±


    First, it was Miss Qiao, and now it¡¯s Miss Xiaomai. Yang Ye was certain that Yang Wang¡¯s earlierment was aplete fabrication!


    Moreover, Yang Wang¡¯s obsession with Qiao Xiaomai didn¡¯t diminish but instead was growing stronger!


    ¡°I heard that these dried sweet potatoes are 300 wen per kilogram?¡± Yang Wang asked again.


    ¡°Might be,¡± Yang Ye replied uncertainly. ¡°She gave it to me for free, so I don¡¯t know the exact price.¡±


    ¡°Fan Jia bought 500 kilograms and quickly distributed them all. I didn¡¯t even get to see it. Seems like Miss Xiaomai¡¯s misunderstanding towards me is rather deep!¡±


    Yang Ye: ¡°¡­Hmm? Fan Jia bought 500 kilograms?¡±


    ¡°Yes, it was distributed among acquaintances of the Fan family. When the 500 kilograms entered the Capital City, it was like a drop of water in the sea, not even causing a ripple. However, the good reputation has spread sessfully, everyone who tasted it praised its taste.¡±


    ¡°I believe they¡¯re likely to ask Fan Jia to ce anotherrge order soon.¡±


    Yang Ye heard this and couldn¡¯t help but let out an oh.


    He actually knew all this, but it was better to act unaware before Yang Wang.


    ¡°How much did Miss Xiaomai give you?¡± Yang Wang asked again.


    ¡°Not much, I sent some to the pce.¡±


    ¡°Miss Xiaomai is indeed generous towards you,¡± Yang Wang sighed.


    Given the amount she gifted, the quantity couldn¡¯t be small. It was likely sent in hundreds of kilograms.


    She gave Yang Ye hundreds of kilograms, but not even a single piece to him.


    Such an unfair difference!


    And the sweet potatoes, which initially cost one wen for three kilograms, was boosted by Qiao Xiaomai to the price of 300 wen per kilogram.


    The value has increased many times over; no wonder he called her a gold mine. Impressive indeed!


    ¡°Tell Miss Xiaomai that I also n to buy some¡­ um¡­ one thousand kilograms.¡± Yang Wang contemted for a moment then said, ¡°And distribute some to my subordinates.¡±


    As he spoke, he took out three 100 tael silver notes from his pocket and handed them to Yang Ye.

 Chapter 727: Crayfish

    Chapter 727: Chapter 727: Crayfish


    ¡°Alright, when there¡¯s some timeter, I¡¯ll look into these tires you¡¯ve mentioned.¡± Tong Sang said as he wiped the tables and chairs with a cloth.@@novelbin@@


    He and Qiao Xiaomai were both fond of cleanliness. Since they were nning to stay in this room for a couple of days, a good wipe-down was required.


    ¡°There¡¯s just so much stuff to look intoter.¡± Qiao Xiaomai stretched her arms and legs, adding a few jumps for good measure. Five days on a horse-drawn cart had been a real hardship.


    ¡°The day is still young, should we go house-huntingter?¡± she suggested.


    It was just mid-afternoon and they still had a fair amount of daylight left.


    ¡°Okay.¡± Tong Sang agreed.


    Plus, it was a good chance to take a stroll around.


    He¡¯d been to Prefecture City before so he could y guide for Qiao Xiaomai.


    They tidied up the room quickly and soon enough, they were out the door.


    The area around the Prefectural Government Office was full of shops, and behind these were the residences of ordinary folks. At this time, almost every household was renting out rooms.


    They lucked out and found a suitable house rather quickly.


    The owners of this particr house had erected a wall within their courtyard, effectively splitting the space in two. They had also installed a separate little doorway. This meant that the tenants got a private courtyard where they could live undisturbed.


    Moreover, the property came with a well, a kitchen, and a bathroom. It was just the kind of ce Qiao Xiaomai was hoping for.


    She didn¡¯t bother haggling over the price and paid the rent straight away. Twenty-five taels a month, which was quite reasonable.


    Having received the keys, the two headed straight back to the inn to check out and move their luggage to their new home.


    No sooner had their luggage been brought downstairs when hurried footsteps approached from behind. A frail schr in his twenties suddenly rushed up, panting heavily. He squeezed past them to address the innkeeper, ¡°Innkeeper! There¡¯s a man in the room next to mine who keeps roaches! You need to throw him out!¡±


    At these words, the innkeeper¡¯s countenance changed, ¡°Keeping roaches?!¡±


    Just then, the sound of footsteps was heard again, followed by a hearty male voice, ¡°Brother, those aren¡¯t roaches. They¡¯re a specialty from my hometown, crawfish. I brought them specially!¡±


    Huh?


    Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s eyes lit up instantly at the mention of crawfish. She turned quickly to look at the neer.


    He was a tall and brawny man, nearly 1.8 meters tall, just a bit shorter than Tong Sang. His skin was tanned, his features handsome, and he exuded an upright demeanor. He was now wearing an amused expression as he exined the situation to the frail schr and the innkeeper.


    ¡°Those aren¡¯t roaches. They don¡¯t look anything like roaches. If you don¡¯t believe me, I¡¯ll cook a potfulter and let everyone try them.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re the one who eats roaches!¡± Hearing this, the frail schr grew even angrier and turned to the innkeeper, dead earnest, ¡°Innkeeper, how can you let someone who keeps roaches stay here! You must drive him out today, or the other guests will be too afraid to stay!¡±


    Hearing this, Qiao Xiaomai could bear it no more.


    Roaches?


    How on earth could anyonepare cute little crawfish to roaches? What kind of odd logic would conclude that they were simr?


    [Crawfish were introduced to China by the Japanese troops during their invasion¡­ so yeah, they wouldn¡¯t be around during this period.]

 Chapter 729: The Friendship Established by Crawfish

    Chapter 729: Chapter 729: The Friendship Established by Crawfish


    Unfortunately, it is already autumn and the crayfish season is past. You will have to wait until next year if you want to eat them.


    Upon learning this, Qiao Xiaomai quickly asked Ya Wuxia for his detailed address. She was determined to buy some crayfish to breed at her ce!


    Seeing Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s love for crayfish, Ya Wuxia immediately offered to give her dozens of crayfish for free.


    Qiao Xiaomai didn¡¯t refuse. After she cooks them, she can invite Ya Wuxia to taste them.


    The three of them enjoyed their meal and had a lively conversation. After dinner, Qiao Xiaomai and Tong Sang simply returned to their room upstairs. They decided to check out the next day!


    At night, lying on the bed, Qaio Xiaomai was so excited that she had trouble falling asleep. Shey on her side with her leg resting on Tong Sang and her hand on his chest, constantly drawing circles.


    ¡°After you pass your exam, we must celebrate by feasting on two pots of crayfish!¡±


    The dozen or so pots of crayfish in her space were originally meant tost a lifetime, with her eating one or two asionally. But now that she knew there were crayfish here too, she was eager to tuck in!


    ¡°Deal,¡± Tong Sang said, holding her hand that was drawing on his chest. ¡°This trip to Prefecture City was worthwhile.¡±


    ¡°Indeed!¡± eximed Qiao Xiaomai, nodding her head enthusiastically. ¡°Breeding crayfish, wow, I see money flying towards me!¡±


    Tong Sang smiled and tightened his grip on her hand. ¡°Sleep, we have a lot to do tomorrow.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai was in charge of making money for the family, and he was responsible for the Imperial Examination!


    They would give it their all!


    The next day, the pair got up early, packed their things into a wooden box, and checked out of the room.


    At the rented courtyard, the two of them first carried out a thorough cleaning, then went to buy pots, dishes, spoons, oil, salt, sauces, rice, flour, vegetables, and other things.


    Though Qiao Xiaomai also had rice and flour in her space, she needed to buy some to keep up appearances.


    After busying themselves all morning, Qiao Xiaomai was a little tired. Tong Sang went to buy firewood and a bath tub, and boiled water for a bath.


    Living in the city required spending money on everything.


    After bath, they slept soundly on the bed, and woke uppletely refreshed from their journey.


    While Tong Sang sat at the desk studying, Qiao Xiaomai eagerly sorted out the dozens of crayfish.


    Hot and spicy crayfish is a ssic vor, but there were no peppers here, so this ssic way of eating couldn¡¯t be replicated. Qiao Xiaomai simply cooked it in a soy sauce braise.


    Then she cooked a dish of ¡®Buddha jumps over the wall¡¯.


    This is an impressive dish worthy ofparison to crayfish!


    Besides these two dishes, she also cooked two vegetables and then asked Tong Sang to invite Ya Wuxia.


    By the time the fragrance of ¡®Buddha jumps over the wall¡¯ had spread throughout the small courtyard and reached thendlord¡¯s house. Thendlord came over to ask what Qiao Xiaomai had cooked that smelled so good.


    Qiao Xiaomai was generous and gave a bowl to them.


    Seeing abalone and shark fin in it, thendlord felt embarrassed and insisted on giving her money.


    Qiao Xiaomai didn¡¯t want it. It was just a bowl of ¡®Buddha jumps over the wall¡¯ and she was in a happy mood today!


    After sending thendlord away, Tong Sang returned with Ya Wuxia.


    Ya Wuxia, who caught the aroma of ¡®Buddha jumps over the wall¡¯ before he entered the courtyard, was so surprised that he kept giving Qiao Xiaomai thumbs up, repeating ¡°sister you are so skilled¡± over and over again.@@novelbin@@


    He was straightforward and, after the meal the day before, had already struck up a brotherly rtionship with Tong Sang.


    Qiao Xiaomaiughed modestly.


    To deal with foodies, ¡®Buddha jumps over the wall¡¯ was sure to impress.

 Chapter 731: Passed the Examination, Start the Feast

    Chapter 731: Chapter 731: Passed the Examination, Start the Feast


    Ya Wuxia nodded her head deeply in agreement, ¡°Well said!¡±


    With the matter resolved, Ya Wuxia became restless. She immediately stood up and left.


    If Tong Sang was working hard, she should solve this issue as soon as possible too. She couldn¡¯t let this interfere with his studies.


    Two dayster, Qiao Xiaomai ran to the inn to find out about the situation. She bumped into Sun Junyan just as he was packing and leaving the inn. The two brushed past each other.


    Seeing Qiao Xiaomai, Sun Junyan¡¯s already darkened face turned even more somber, and his eyes held a hint of malice.


    Qiao Xiaomai rolled her eyes in annoyance, snorted, lifted her head high and walked into the inn withrge strides.


    Sun Junyan watched her walk up the stairs,ughed coldly, and then picked up his luggage and left.


    The issue was resolved like this. For the next few days, nothing unexpected happened.@@novelbin@@


    Soon, it was the day of the provincial examinations. Like the preliminary exam, Xiaomai fried a dough stick for breakfast and hard-boiled two eggs. The simple meal carried her sincerest blessings.


    Tong Sang was naturally smart, and he had been studying so diligently these days. He was sure to pass!


    After breakfast, the two went to the Prefectural Government Office.


    The provincial exam attracted schrs from all over the prefecture, many more than the preliminary exam. The age range of the candidates was considerable. Some were as young as Tong Sang while others were old with white hair.


    Only five out of the entire prefecture got admitted every three years. The passing rate was brutally low.


    Qiao Xiaomai stood at the street corner watching Tong Sang move into the office carrying his lunchbox. Then she randomly picked an inn and went inside.


    She waited until evening. This time, Tong Sang took the exam more seriously and didn¡¯t rush to turn in his paper early. Only when the examiner collected the papers did he get up.


    ¡°Over here!¡± Qiao Xiaomai was standing at the door, continuously waving. Tong Sang saw her and walked towards her.


    ¡°How did it go?¡± Xiaomai asked hurriedly as soon as they were close to each other.


    ¡°Not bad,¡± Tong Sang said, rubbing his belly. ¡°I¡¯m a bit hungry.¡±


    It was more exhausting thinking hard all day than working in the fields.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go home then!¡± Qiao Xiaomai grabbed him and they left.


    Back home, she took some food from her storage space to fill his belly while she started to cook dinner.


    While eating, Tong Sang talked about the exam specifics. His seat had been in the courtyard, facing the sun. Since it was autumn, it was only hot around noon. The rest of the time it was fine.


    ¡°I¡¯m young, I manage. An older candidate couldn¡¯t bear it and fainted. They took him inside.¡±


    Xiaomai, ¡°¡­Your health is your capital.¡±


    Tong Sang nodded seriously. Luckily, he had practiced martial arts since he was a child.


    ¡°Did you see Brother Yu?¡± Xiaomai asked again.


    ¡°I saw him. He went to drink with friends. He must have done well in the exam.¡± Ya Wuxia was a spirited person, and he had made a lot of friends in the past fortnight.


    ¡°Then we¡¯ll look for him in a couple of days,¡± Xiaomai said.


    Tong Sang nodded, his eyesnding on Qiao Xiaomai. His gaze was a bit profound. ¡°Make plenty of food. We need to eat a lot. We¡¯re not sleeping tonight.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Xiaomai paused mid-stir. She turned to look at Tong Sang, her expression surprised.


    Wasn¡¯t that a bit sudden?


    With a justified expression, Tong Sang said, ¡°I can¡¯t even remember thest time.¡±


    He had been living a stoic life in preparation for the exams.


    The provincial exam was now over. Regardless of the results, the fact that he had taken the exams couldn¡¯t be changed. He wanted to break his abstinence!


    It was inhumane to make a newlywed young man stay celibate for so long!

 Chapter 732: Becoming the Top Scholar in the Examination

    Chapter 732: Chapter 732: Bing the Top Schr in the Examination


    That night, Tong Sang held Qiao Xiaomai, making up for all the joy they had missed in this period.


    Tong Sang¡¯s masculine pride was shattered once again.


    Complicated.


    Puff!


    Caught off guard, Tong Sang was immediately choked by the porridge in his mouth.


    Just imagining that scene in his head, his gut feeling, as if being gutted, suddenly heated up.


    ¡°Look how excited you¡¯re.¡± Qiao Xiaomai patted his back, took a cup of water from the air and fed it to him.


    ¡°It¡¯s because your description was too alluring.¡± Tong Sang exined.


    Tong Sang said confidently, ¡°I have absolutely no resistance against you.¡±


    ¡°So it¡¯s my fault?¡±


    ¡°Yes, it¡¯s all your fault that I can¡¯t control myself.¡±@@novelbin@@


    Hearing this, Qiao Xiaomai rolled her eyes, ¡°Just eat your porridge!¡±


    ¡°What nonsense are you talking about!¡±


    ¡°After we go back, we won¡¯t have such good days.¡±


    After going back, they would be living on the manor, where there are many people.


    ¡°Moreover, didn¡¯t you say I was nurturing you? I am willingly nurturing you.¡± Looking at Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s soft skin, which was like milk, Tong Sang added.


    Tong Sang ¡°¡­¡±


    His shoulders sagged, then he twisted his body and fell directly onto the bed.


    ¡°I am clearly very strong.¡±


    But howe he feels so weak when ites to the bed!


    He¡¯s too ashamed to face anyone!


    ¡°I don¡¯t dislike you anyway.¡± Qiao Xiaomai patted his back, ¡°Hurry up and eat your porridge.¡±


    Tong Sang couldn¡¯t help but sigh, then sat up straight again, his gaze at her a bit resentful.


    ¡°Fine.¡± Qiao Xiaomai nodded in agreement.


    The two stayed sticky for two or three days without going out.


    Later on, Ya Wuxia visited and they talked about buying baby crayfish. It couldn¡¯t be done this year, the pond at the manor wasn¡¯t ready yet. Ya Wuxia left a detailed address and agreed to meet next spring.


    Soon, half a month passed and it was time for the examination results to be posted.


    The rural exam papers were marked by the Institute Dean, and they got the news early from the Dean. This time there was no one to ask, both were somewhat nervous.


    However, hard studying pays off. Led by Tong Sang¡¯s intelligence and the Dean¡¯s pointers, Tong Sang was once again in first ce in this metropolitan exam: the primary schr!


    Right beneath Tong Sang¡¯s name was Sun Junyan¡¯s.


    After Sun Junyan, it was Ya Wuxia.


    This food connoisseur, who loved crayfish from Xiezi County, also had an impressive ability.

 Chapter 733: Returning to White Deer Town

    Chapter 733: Chapter 733: Returning to White Deer Town


    Just like in the provincial examination, seeing Sun Junyan¡¯s name directly below Tong Sang¡¯s took away half of Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s joy.


    When she unintentionally caught a glimpse of Sun Junyan¡¯s restrained yet gleeful demeanor as he made polite conversation with those around him, her happiness was further reduced to merely a third.


    ¡°This man is so skilled at tricks and deceit, how can he pass the examination so smoothly!¡± Qiao Xiaomai grumbled resentfully.


    ¡°Perhaps he¡¯s just intelligent,¡± Tong Sang answered indifferently, not really concerned about the matter.


    What he was pondering over was the intentions of the Grand Emperor and Emperor Yongan.@@novelbin@@


    ording to Tong Tiehu¡¯s spection, the Grand Emperor wanted the Tong Family to stay put and honest in Anping Vige, not to try any tricks, and to faithfully farm.


    But now they were permitting him to pass as a sessful candidate in the Imperial Examination.


    A sessful candidate, one step into officialdom, could take up minor posts or even be a county magistrate.


    This status was somewhat sensitive.


    Did the Grand Emperor not suspect the Tong Family anymore?


    Why did they let him smoothly pass as a sessful candidate?


    ¡°Because they¡¯re pragmatic,¡± Qiao Xiaomai responded to his inner doubts by guessing the thoughts of Yang Wenxiao and Emperor Yongan, ¡°If your exam papers are well-written, they let you pass. As for whether they let you be an official, that still depends on their will.¡±


    ¡°If they don¡¯t want you to be an official, then it¡¯ll be but a hollow title for you, granted in consideration of your Mistress¡¯s grandmother. They won¡¯t be so petty as to deny you the courtesy of the title.¡±


    ¡°Furthermore, if even Sun Junyan can be a sessful candidate, there¡¯s no reason you shouldn¡¯t.¡±


    Tong Sang originally was listening carefully, but when he heard thest sentence, he couldn¡¯t help butugh, ¡°Where¡¯s the logic in thatst statement?¡±


    ¡°It lies in you being more diligent and virtuous than him. Hmph, this scum, you wait and see, he will surely bring cmity upon many more people.¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai murmured quietly, ¡°Even the Grand Emperor knows what a piece of work he is, howe he still allows him to bounce around so freely.¡±


    Tong Sang, upon hearing this, patted her shoulder, ¡°The Grand Emperor has his reasons.¡±


    ¡°Alright, cheer up a bit, herees Brother Yu.¡±


    As he spoke, Tong Sang stepped forward a few steps, an affable smile on his handsome face, and thanked Ya Wuxia, ¡°Congrattions to you, Brother Yu.¡±


    ¡°I should be the one congratting you, Tong. Impressive!¡± Ya Wuxia gave Tong Sang a thumbs-up.


    This young man, two years his junior, was truly impressive!


    ¡°Hey, let¡¯s share the joy. Come on, let¡¯s go have a drink to celebrate,¡± Qiao Xiaomai suggested.


    Tong Sang had been studying by himselftely and didn¡¯t meet many people. Celebrating with Ya Wuxia would be enough.


    Ya Wuxia, who missed Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s culinary skills, readily agreed, ¡°Let¡¯s go!¡±


    Passing as a sessful candidate, while paving one¡¯s way into officialdom, did not differ much in status from that of passing the provincial examinations. Once the results were published, those who passed could go to the Prefectural Government Office to register and then leave as they pleased.


    The government office would send news to the county town where the sessful candidate was based and have someone from the County Government Office visit the candidate¡¯s home to deliver the good news.


    Tong Sang and Ya Wuxia went together to the Prefectural Government Office to register their information. After receiving the congrattory announcement, which detailed their household registrations, sessful results in the Imperial and provincial examinations, and eligibility for the pce examination next spring, they carefully put the announcement away. They didn¡¯t have ns to socialize with the magistrates in the office, so they immediately returned to the residence shared by Tong Sang and Qiao Xiaomai to celebrate with drinks.


    After a night of heavy drinking, it was time to bid farewell.


    They agreed to meet again in the Capital City in the spring of the following year, packed their belongings, and each headed to their respective hometowns.

 Chapter 736: The Arrogance of Aristocratic Nobles

    Chapter 736: Chapter 736: The Arrogance of Aristocratic Nobles


    ¡°What?!¡± Upon hearing Qiao Changshun¡¯s words, Qiao Xiaomai felt a slight sinking in her heart, ¡°The Sun Family said that the aristocrats in the capital were nning to cause trouble for our family?¡±


    ¡°Yes, she said that although our dried sweet potatoes taste good, they were only sold to those aristocrats once, and then there was nomunication. The reason she argued, was because these aristocrats havee to know about your mother¡¯s past and think she is tainted.¡±


    ¡°Has there been news from the young master Fan?¡± Qiao Xiaomai hurriedly asked.


    ¡°No, after you left, only Shopkeeper He came, seeing that your mother and I were no longer making dried sweet potatoes, he didn¡¯t ask again.¡±


    ¡°Wait, I¡¯ll ask Guard Xiaoyang.¡± Tong Sang had also noticed the seriousness of the matter.


    Perhaps, the words of the Sun Family were not merely nonsense.


    We have to ask around.


    As Tong Sang spoke these words, he had already flown out of the room, using his light skills to head towards the academy.


    He quickly found Guard Xiaoyang and started inquiring about the situation in the capital.


    Speaking of the matters in the capital, Guard Xiaoyang indeed knew a little bit.


    ¡°Miss Qiao is famous in the capital, the 500 pounds of dried sweet potatoes that young master Fan bought earlier received many good reviews. Therefore, those people nned to ask young master Fan to purchase more from Miss Qiao.¡±


    ¡°However, at this point, news started to spread that Miss Qiao¡¯s mother had once eloped with a wild man. This kind of background has tarnished the status of those aristocrats, hence the n to purchase more dried sweet potatoes was dropped.¡±


    ¡°Those aristocrats who have tasted the dried sweet potatoes, are they nning to trouble the Qiao Family?¡± Tong Sang hurriedly asked.


    ¡°Cause trouble for the Qiao Family? I doubt it. Miss Qiao has appeared before the retired emperor, both the prince and the retired emperor had tasted the dried sweet potatoes and didn¡¯t say anything about it, hence, those aristocrats wouldn¡¯t say anything on the surface.¡±


    The fact that both Yang Ye and the retired emperor enjoyed the dried sweet potatoes, yet these people insisted that the ones who made them were unclean, implying that they want to find Qiao Xiaomai for an exnation was unlikely.


    These people are not that foolish.


    Among those who have tasted the dried sweet potatoes delivered by Fan Jia, somee from noble families.


    The noble people pride themselves on their noble bloodline and look down on the Yang Family, with their humble background.


    If they despise the Yang Family, they would, even more, despise the Qiao Family.


    But with the military power possessed by the Yang Family, these noble people would not make a scene, they would only contemptuously criticize Yang Ye and the retired emperor¡¯s taste in private, while cursing Qiao Xiaomai heavily.


    After hearing this, the heavy stone in Tong Sang¡¯s heart rxed slightly.


    But it just eased a little.


    Qiao Xiaomai intends to be the inte celebrity of Daqi, and targets the market at the aristocrats in Capital City. Yet now, these aristocrats refuse to buy Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s goods anymore on the grounds that they despise Zhuang L¨¹he.


    In this way, the blueprint in Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s heart could not be drawn.


    These arrogant people from noble families¡­


    They really wanted to ruthlessly tread them underfoot.


    No wonder the retired emperor always wanted to eradicate them.


    @@novelbin@@


    They should be eradicated.


    Guard Xiaoyang noticed that Tong Sang looked upset, he immediately advised, ¡°You shouldn¡¯t take it to heart, if they don¡¯t eat, others will. As long as it tastes good, that¡¯s what matters.¡±


    ¡°Also, tofu and bean curd, cold jelly noodles, braised pork, and other dishes are all devised by Miss Qiao, those people still eat with relish. If they reject everything rted to Miss Qiao, I would admire them.¡±


    As a personal guard of Yang Ye, Guard Xiaoyang is well aware of the arrogance of the noble families in Capital City.

 Chapter 738: Seek Revenge from the Sun Family First

    Chapter 738: Chapter 738: Seek Revenge from the Sun Family First


    Xiaoyang the guard smiled brilliantly, Tong Sang returned the smile, exchanged a few pleasantries, and then bid him farewell in a hurry.


    He returned to the medical clinic.


    At the clinic, Qiao Xiaomai had already inquired about Zhuang L¨¹he¡¯s condition.


    She was still unconscious, she was hit hard at the time, and she truly didn¡¯t wish to live anymore, so she hadn¡¯t woken up for two days.


    Upon hearing the physician¡¯s words, Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s heart sank into an abyss.


    @@novelbin@@


    Zhuang L¨¹he didn¡¯t want to live and had no will to live, so external forces were of no help.


    Yet again, she found herself resenting her seemingly insignificant Spiritual Spring. It couldn¡¯t heal her menstrual pain, couldn¡¯t treat Tong Sang¡¯s kidney deficiency, Qiao Changshun¡¯s leg, Zhuang L¨¹he¡¯s internal injuries ¨C it couldn¡¯t cure any of it!


    And now, at the juncture of life and death, it still proved ineffective.


    They had gone to great lengths to bring Zhuang L¨¹he back, were they now just to watch her die¡­


    When Tong Sang entered, he saw Qiao Xiaomai biting her lip and staring at Zhuang L¨¹he. He pursed his lips and said, ¡°Don¡¯t worry about Capital City, the situation is not so dire.¡±


    He simply recounted Xiaoyang the guard¡¯s words.


    Upon hearing this, Qiao Xiaomai momentarily shifted her attention to this matter, she narrowed her eyes, ¡°So, the Sun Family intentionally said this to drive Motherhood to death?¡±


    Zhuang L¨¹he had no sense of guilt towards Qiao Changshun, but she sometimes felt so guilty towards her and Qiao Dami that she dared not meet their eyes.


    So now when the Sun Family said that her existence was affecting the family¡¯s business, she unhesitatingly threw herself against the wall.


    She didn¡¯t want to be a drag on the family.


    She also wanted to bepletely free.


    ¡°Probably so, and really, this should be Sun Junyan¡¯s idea, right? The Sun Family also said, when I pass the Imperial Examination, my mother would smear my name.¡± Tong Sang remembered Sun Junyan¡¯s excitement that day and clenched his fists in the dark.


    What an undying cockroach.


    ¡°You already knew she would smear your name!¡± Tong Xingda¡¯s loud voice rang out at that moment.


    He and his wife rushed to the clinic, asked about Zhuang L¨¹he¡¯s whereabouts, and immediately came over, just in time to hear Tong Sang¡¯s words.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go, let¡¯s go, the whole family is waiting at home for you!¡± Tong Xingda charged into the room, grabbed Tong Sang and started dragging him out.


    The Tong Family received the good news from the sheriff¡¯s office and was ecstatic. Tong Eng even ran over to call Zhu Hongyun back.


    A big crowd had gathered, all waiting for the protagonist, Tong Sang, to return home.


    And Tong Sang, he was skirting around a miserable woman, not even afraid that her bad luck would affect his examination next spring!


    If Tong Sang wasn¡¯t afraid, the whole Tong Family was!


    The Tongs had no chance of rebelling now and had lost their treasure. They were now just old peasants who depended on farming.


    Now, their only hope was for Tong Sang to turn their situation around!


    Tong Sang slightly furrowed his brows, extricating his arm from Tong Xingda, ¡°Dad, you and mom go home first, I¡¯ll be backter tonight.¡±


    At a time like this, he should stay with Qiao Xiaomai,fort her, and then seek revenge on the Sun Family.


    Thinking of this, he took an envelope with a banknote from his bosom, a reward given to him by Qiao Xiaomai after he passed the Imperial Examination.


    He handed it to Tong Xingda, ¡°Dad, take this and order a banquet at Extreme vor House, you all start eating and drinking first, I¡¯lle backter tonight.¡±


    Saying this, he practically pushed Tong Xingda out and mmed the door shut with a ¡°bang¡±.


    ¡°Xiaomai, shall we go find the Sun Family? Eye for an eye, let¡¯s beat her until she can¡¯t fend for herself.¡±


    [End of Chapter Eight, hope you enjoyed]

 Chapter 740: Should Learn from the Sun Family

    Chapter 740: Chapter 740: Should Learn from the Sun Family


    However, Tong Xingda couldn¡¯t really do anything to Qiao Xiaomai. Scowling at her, he held his silver note tightly and went off to the Extreme vour Residence.


    If Tong Sang said that he would return in the evening, then he definitely would. He and the Zhang family could wait for him!


    Tong Xingda left and Qiao Xiaomai thought for a while. She assigned Qiao Zhaodi to take care of Zhuang Luhe, and she herself went to the Academy to find Guard Xiaoyang.


    She and Tong Sang still didn¡¯t know where the Sun Family was specifically residing¡­


    Guard Xiaoyang was well informed. Although he was a courier left behind by Yang Ye, he was also responsible for gathering information. Any gossip about Bailu Town and Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s family, big or small, that he believed Yang Ye should know about, he would definitely try to find out.


    The threat posed by Sun Junyan and Cen Hong to Qiao Xiaomai was huge, and he had known their addresses for quite some time.


    ¡°Officer Cen usually stays in the Military Camp, but he has a house in the County Town too, where his family resides. As for Sun Junyan, he and the Sun mother and son live in a rented Courtyard near the suburbs of the Military Camp.¡±


    ¡°Last time, Mrs. Sun insisted on setting up a marriage for your dad with that widow. That¡¯s how they got to know each other.¡±


    Guard Xiaoyang told Qiao Xiaomai the detailed addresses of Sun Junyan and the Sun family. After thanking him, Qiao Xiaomai left the Academy and returned to the Medical Clinic.


    Zhuang Luhe was still unconscious in the Clinic.


    She had been in aa for several days, barely able to ingest her medicine. Porridge was out of the question, so Qiao Zhaodi had to grind Dami into a paste and feed it to her bit by bit.


    Zhuang Luhe was already emaciated. If she didn¡¯t wake up, even if the wound on her head healed, she might starve to death.


    In this time and ce, there were no intravenous drips or medical concoctions. If someone couldn¡¯t swallow food, death was inevitable.


    Looking at Zhuang Luhe, Qiao Xiaomai felt powerless.


    @@novelbin@@


    She didn¡¯t realize that Luhe¡¯s guilt would weigh so heavily¡­


    It was that heavy¡­forcing her to endure and live would be torturing her¡­


    The former Qiao Xiaomai was already dead before Zhuang Luhe left.


    If she were still here, would she hate Zhuang Luhe?Update by n0vgo. co


    Qiao Dami already knew the truth, would he hate Zhuang Luhe?


    If he does, perhaps it would be better for Zhuang Luhe to simply die.


    The woman in front of her, why should she have to suffer so much?


    Qiao Xiaomai simply sat at the bedside. Half an hourter, Tong Sang brought Qiao Dami over.


    Qiao Dami¡¯s eyes were swollen and there were tear stains on his face. Seeing her, it didn¡¯t take long for the tears he¡¯d been holding back to start flowing again. He rushed out of Tong Sang¡¯s embrace and straight to her.


    Qiao Xiaomai held his small body in her arms, pulled out a handkerchief from her pocket, and wiped off his tears, ¡°My little guy, you got scared, didn¡¯t you?¡±


    Qiao Dami sobbed and nodded, his little face flushed red.


    Qiao Xiaomai patted his little head, ¡°Don¡¯t be afraid, we will take revenge for Mom.¡±


    ¡°How will we do it?¡± Qiao Dami asked through his tears.


    ¡°We¡¯ll fight. We¡¯ll keep fighting.¡±


    Someone like Mrs. Sun wouldn¡¯tmit suicide out of shame, no matter what people said about her.


    She had exploited Qiao Changshun, her own son, for years, without feeling a shred of guilt.


    Howe Zhuang Luhe, as a mother, just couldn¡¯t learn from Mrs. Sun?


    Insults don¡¯t hurt Mrs. Sun at all.


    Murder is impossible.


    So, the only option left is to fight.


    We must beat her again and again until she is unable to take care of herself.


    It¡¯s the most brutal method.


    Perhaps we could use our heads instead, set her up to make a mistake, and send her straight to jail.

 Chapter 742: Return to the Village

    Chapter 742: Chapter 742: Return to the Vige


    ¡°I don¡¯t hate mother, not at all.¡± Qiao Dami said as he turned to look at the lying Zhuang Luhe in the sickroom, his eyes welled up with tears.


    ¡°Good boy.¡± Qiao Xiaomai patted his little head, ¡°Go, say a few words to your mother, she can hear you.¡±


    Upon hearing her words, Qiao Dami jumped off Qiao Xiaomai¡¯sp and crawled onto the bed in two steps.


    Looking at Zhuang Luhe¡¯s sallow and emaciated face, he cried harder, ¡°Mother, wake up, don¡¯t leave me and sister¡­ mother¡­¡±


    The mournful calls made Qiao Xiaomai feel as if her heart was being tightly clenched.


    She stood up and walked out of the room.


    The air outside was refreshing, she opened her mouth and took a few deep breaths.


    Tong Sang followed her out, raised his hand and patted her back, saying, ¡°Dami is very sensible.¡±


    ¡°But I¡¯m torn.¡± Qiao Xiaomai bit her lip, ¡°She doesn¡¯t want to live, but I want her to stay.¡±


    ¡°Dami also wants her to live, she should live, she should make up for the mistakes she made before.¡±


    Zhuang Luhe¡¯s life was tough but clearly Qiao Dami needed her.


    Qiao Changshun also needed her.


    Therefore, she must live.


    Guilt, this is an emotion, and how you deal with it is entirely up to you.


    Because of guilt, she should spend the rest of her life redeeming herself, being even more caring towards Qiao Dami.


    She could also let guilt strengthen her, confront the humiliation from the Sun Family, protect Qiao Dami as a real mother should.


    Death, that really is thest resort.


    Hearing this, Qiao Xiaomai was speechless for a while. After a long time, she finally said, ¡°You should go.¡±


    It was already evening.


    ¡°Oh yes, go buy a horse.¡±


    Here, a tall horse is as good as a luxury car in the future world, much faster than a cow-driven carriage, and given the situation at home, Tong Sang needed a horse.


    ¡°Should we go together?¡± Tong Sang asked.


    ¡°No, you go on your own.¡± Qiao Xiaomai reached into her arms and fetched a silver note from her pouch, ¡°after buying it, go straight back to the vige.¡±


    ¡°What about you?¡± Tong Sang asked, his eyes filled with worry.


    ¡°I will wait. After you have finished celebrating,e get me. Let¡¯s go back to the manor, rest and rejuvenate. We¡¯re going to see the Sun Family tomorrow.¡±


    Tong Sang thought for a moment and nodded, ¡°Alright, I will wait for me.¡±


    He couldn¡¯t help much here, he should go home and celebrate with his family.


    Even though each family member had their own little schemes, Tong Tiehu was still there, he should go back.


    Tong Sang took the silver note, left the medical clinic and went to buy a horse.


    There were many rich people in the town, so there were people selling horses. He spent sixty taels on a horse and bought some items like a saddle. As it turned dark, Tong Sang rode back to Anping Vige on the horse.


    The Tong family¡¯s new house was full of joy.


    Red silk cloth bought for the wedding of Tong Sang and Qiao Xiaomai was hung up in the house. The courtyard was cleaned. When Tong Eng saw Tong Sang returning, he immediately started setting off firecrackers. The sound of the popping firecrackers shook the sky.


    ¡°Oh, where did this horsee from?¡± Zhang Family saw Tong Sang dismount from the horse and quickly ran over.


    It was different when he became a schr, he came back with a tall horse!


    @@novelbin@@


    ¡°I bought it.¡± Tong Sang tied the horse to a tree at the gate and entered the courtyard.


    Zhang Family stood on the spot, stroking the horse¡¯s head, unable to let go.


    A tall horse, not bad, not bad, now that Tong Sang is a schr, it wouldn¡¯t look good if he rode a cow-drawn carriage. Riding a horse is appropriate!


    ¡°You¡¯re back.¡± Tong Tiehu was sitting in the courtyard, he saw Tong Sang, stood up, his face full of joy.


    He had be the top schr through his own abilities, he was worthy of his ancestors, and worthy of the many years of nurturing from him and Deng Chun!

 Chapter 745: My Surname is Not Tong to Begin With

    Chapter 745: Chapter 745: My Surname is Not Tong to Begin With


    ¡°Dad, since mom just said that I am the head of the Tong Family, then at the very least, I should have the freedom to decide where I live, shouldn¡¯t I?¡± Tong Sang stood up as he spoke, ¡°I am full now, you continue eating, I am going back . . .¡±


    Before he could finish his sentence, Tong Xingda interrupted him with a loud shout, ¡°I dare you to step out of this door today!¡±


    ¡°Your surname is Tong, you are a member of the Tong Family, you bear the name of the Tong Family, and you must live in the Tong Family!¡±


    Zhang Family was sitting nearby and quickly interjected, ¡°Sang, there were arguments in the past, but we are a family; there is no enmity between a mother and son thatsts overnight. When things have passed, they should be let go, right?¡±


    She deliberately softened her tone, in stark contrast to Tong Xingda¡¯s hardness.


    Compared to her previous abrasivemanding tone, she seemed like apletely different person now.


    Upon hearing this, Tong Sang turned his gaze to her, ¡°Indeed, there are no overnight feuds. In that case, let¡¯s peacefully end this matter today, and you and dad should not get angry.¡±


    ¡°And, a few dayster, after the autumn harvest, we should host a banquet and invite everyone in the vige over.¡±


    ¡°Our sweet potatoes should be harvested, right?¡± He looked at Tong Tiehu as he said this.


    @@novelbin@@


    Tong Tiehu grunted, ¡°We have already started harvesting.¡±


    ¡°Well, it¡¯s a lot of work for everyone. I am busy tomorrow and can¡¯te back. I will return the day after tomorrow to help harvest the sweet potatoes.¡±


    ¡°There is no need for that. Your father has hired workers with the money.¡± Tong Tiehu replied.


    The Tong Family¡¯s sweet potatoes were nted a monthter than others, so the harvest was also a monthter.


    They had just started harvesting a few days ago when they received the news that Tong Sang had passed the Imperial examination. As a result, Tong Xingda didn¡¯t want to work any longer and insisted on hiring people with the silver.


    Tong Tiehu couldn¡¯t stop him, so he just went along with it.


    Upon hearing this, Tong Sang immediately looked at Tong Xingda, ¡°Dad, since you are using the silver provided by Xiaomai, you might as well stop saying so much, I am leaving.¡±


    Saying that, he slowly walked toward the door.


    Tong Xingda was infuriated by his attitude, stomped his foot and chased after him, ¡°You ungrateful kid, if you dare to step out of this door today, you will no longer be a Tong! And don¡¯t think about returning in the future!¡±


    This statement might have some deterrent effect on the ipetent Tong Eng, but to Tong Sang, it went in one ear and out the other. ¡°We weren¡¯t Tongs from the beginning, we are Gu. We are descendants of Gu Y¨¹.¡±


    As he said this, Tong Sang had already reached the door.


    Casually, he untied the reins, mounted the horse, and loudly said, ¡°You guys enjoy your meal and celebrate freely, I am leaving!¡±


    Before his voice fell, he had already whipped the horse into motion.


    So when Tong Xingda chased him out, all he saw was the dust kicked up by the horse hooves.


    ¡°This unfilial son!¡± He was shaking with rage.


    Persuading Tong Sang to move back home was something they had been nning since when Tong Sang passed the schr exam.


    Now that Tong Sang passed the Imperial examination, it was ever more important to bring him back home.


    In the past, when he wanted to marry Qiao Xiaomai, it was defined as Xiaomai¡¯s marrying down.


    But now that Tong Sang had passed the examination, marrying him could be considered marrying up for Qiao Xiaomai!


    At present, the Tong Family¡¯s prestige far surpasses the Qiao Family. No matter how many influential people Qiao Xiaomai knows, in the end she is amoner, a vige girl.


    While Tong Sang has now truly set foot in the official circle.


    Back when the woman was strong and the man was weak, Tong Sang moved to the Qiao Family and it was bearable.


    But now that the man is strong and the woman is weak, she shoulde and serve her inws!


    All the humiliation he suffered because of Qiao Xiaomai, he wanted to make her pay it back one by one!


    Besides, staying with the unlucky and contemptible woman like Zhuang Luhe all day, is just not right with the blessing that the heavens have bestowed!


    Next spring, Tong Sang still has the pce examination to look forward to!

 Chapter 746: Face is a Dishrag

    Chapter 746: Chapter 746: Face is a Dishrag


    But no sooner had he said this than Tong Sang took off.


    Faster than a rabbit!


    Tong Xingda spat in disgust and turned to return to the courtyard.


    Seeing Tong Tiehu sit there nonchntly eating his meal, he couldn¡¯t help but shout angrily, ¡°Dad! Are you just going to let that little brat defy us?!¡±


    ¡°You guys said it, he is now the head of the Tong family, and as the head of the family, we should all listen to him.¡± Tong Tiehu calmly responded.


    ¡°Reputation, how important is your reputation!¡± Tong Xingda nearly fainted in anger upon hearing this.


    Both this old and young man didn¡¯t care about the reputation of the Tong family at all, what on earth were they thinking!


    ¡°For a family that has had their property confiscated by the retired Emperor, what kind of reputation could you possibly want?¡± Tong Tiehu retorted.


    Besides, what kind of reputation is this?


    Did the Tong family bully people as viins?


    We didn¡¯t oppress men or women, cause harm to the vige, and it¡¯s just Tong Sang living in Qiao family¡¯snd, how is this bad for our reputation?


    Not to mention, the Zhang family intentionally lied about the production of bean sprouts before, at that time the Tong family¡¯s reputation was already tarnished.


    You¡¯re worried about the family¡¯s reputation now, where was this concern when you were bad-mouthing us?


    Moreover, even if there are those idle people who gossip a bit privately, let them gossip.


    Anyway, it won¡¯t reach the ears of the Tong family.


    Tong Sang was seeding, and no one would dare to gossip in front of the Tong family in the future.


    He feels that the current situation is pretty good.


    He can¡¯t imagine how much trouble this group would cause if Tong Sang truly moved back.


    ¡°We¡¯re spending Xiaomai¡¯s silver right now, and Sang is indeed livingfortably there, so let¡¯s continue as is.¡±


    ¡°Spend silver? This is the silver she should be giving us! Besides, didn¡¯t Sang work for her? Hiring a schr to work for her, what a big face! How muchbor cost would that be!¡± Tong Xingda indignantly said.


    ¡°As for Zhuang Luhe, aren¡¯t you, dad, afraid that her bad luck will infect Sang?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m just worried that your unreasonable noise will affect him.¡± Tong Tiehu coldly huffed.


    ¡°Who¡¯s making unreasonable noise?!¡± Tong Xingda retorted disagreeably.


    Tong Tiehu couldn¡¯t be bothered to deal with him anymore, just lowering his head to eat.


    Seeing this, Tong Xingda angrily mmed the table and kicked the stool, ¡°If we had known this earlier, we wouldn¡¯t have let him learn martial arts!¡±


    If it weren¡¯t for Tong Sang¡¯s martial arts skills, he would have definitely called Tong Dng and Tong Eng to forcibly keep Tong Sang at home at this moment.


    Not like now, Tong Sang had already vanished before he could stamp his foot in anger!


    He¡¯s going to be driven mad by this!


    Due to this, Tong Eng couldn¡¯t help but exchange nces with Zhu Hongyun.


    @@novelbin@@


    They were quite distressed.


    Last time, Tong Sang almost destroyed Zhu Hongfu¡¯s house, and Zhu Hongfu put the entire me on Tong Eng¡¯s head. When Tong Eng went to call Zhu Hongyun back, Zhu Hongfu asked him to take out some silver.


    To repair the ces that Tong Sang had destroyed, the Zhu family had to empty their coffers.


    At that time, Tong Eng habitually agreed, but after agreeing he realized that his private stash was already depleted.


    No money, but he had promised Zhu Hongfu.


    Tong Eng quickly thought of asking Tong Sang for a loan, but Zhangshi and Tong Xingda teamed up to piss off Tong Sang and drove him away.


    With Tong Sang gone, who was he to ask for money?


    Tong Sang, who was being remembered by the Tong family, paid no mind to the family¡¯s little schemes, he quickly rode his horse to the town¡¯s medical clinic.


    Hua Xiaofeng had already arrived and was sternly reprimanding Qiao Changshun.


    [Sang is already changing¡­End of Chapter Eight]

 Chapter 748: 748: Whats Qiao Xiaomai to Him?

    Chapter 748: Chapter 748: What¡¯s Qiao Xiaomai to Him?


    The Huai¡¯an County is stationed with twenty thousand troops, and the military camp is situated on the west suburbs of Huai¡¯an County, which is a poverty-stricken area. The rent here is quite cheap; Sun Junyan and the Qiao Meipan of the Sun Family rented a little courtyard, costing them only eight hundred coins a month.


    As far as the courtyard was concerned, the Sun Family and Qiao Meipan were immensely satisfied.


    The courtyard was paved with green bricks, which meant there was no need to worry about stepping on mud when it rained.


    They also didn¡¯t have to worry about dust storms when the wind blew.


    The courtyard even had a well, unlike in the vige where they had to travel a considerable distance to fetch water.


    The only inconvenience was that they had to buy everything they needed, which proved quite exorbitant. As a result, the Sun Family had Qiao Meipan go back to the Qiao Family estate once to bring back several bags of wheat.


    Bringing wheat from home, along with the generous amount of silver that Sun Junyan offered for household expenses, contributed to Sun Family and Qiao Meipan¡¯s satisfaction with the ce.


    Now that Sun Junyan had achieved the status of a schr, Sun Family and Qiao Meipan were ever more pleased.


    However, there was one thing that displeased them: the marriage of Qiao Meipan.


    Back in Anping Vige, a scandal involving Qiao Meipan and a man named Tong Sang had made public headlines. With such a scandal on record, no respectable household would consider marrying her.


    Now that Junyan had passed the schr exam, some families might seek his favor by asking for Meipan¡¯s hand in marriage. However, Sun Family didn¡¯t consider suchmon families appropriate anymore.


    ¡°Meipan, don¡¯t worry, wait until your brother bes an official after passing the examination for schrs. There will be plenty of suitors then,¡±forted Sun Family.


    Sitting nearby, Sun Junyan nodded and chimed in, ¡°Indeed, when I be an official, there will be plenty of people looking to marry you.¡±


    Now that he had passed the schrly examination, he was already qualified to be an official.


    Even if he hadn¡¯t passed the Imperial examination, he could still easily secure a county governor post with Yang Wang¡¯s assistance.


    Once he bes a county governor in a foreignnd, nobody there would be privy to the disgrace of Anping Vige, making it easier to marry off Meipan.


    However, ording to Cen Hong¡¯s ns, he would most likely remain in the Huai¡¯an County.


    The post that Yang Wang was seeking was also that of a county governor of the Huai¡¯an County.


    He understood that Cen Hong and Yang Wang valued him highly and instrumentalized him to counter Qiao Xiaomai. To them, he was simply a tool, a pawn in their game.


    It didn¡¯t matter, being utilized by someone was, in a sense, a type ofpetence.


    What truly scared him was not having any value at all, which would be the worst-case scenario.@@novelbin@@


    Besides, he himself harbored a deep resentment toward Qiao Xiaomai.


    Respected by the vigers for his status as a student, his dignity was stripped away by Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s usations, leading to him being paraded around and publicly shamed.


    Qiao Xiaomai had pushed him into a deep abyss.


    In Anping vige, he was treated like a stray dog, shunned and attacked by everyone, and eventually driven out of the vige.


    On top of everything, Qiao Xiaomai set fire to his temporary shelter, rendering himpletely homeless.


    ?Once a respectable character, he had now lost everything ¡ª all thanks to Qiao Xiaomai.


    People often equated ruining someone¡¯s livelihood to murdering their parents. Yet, what Qiao Xiaomai had snuffed out was his path to sess, a sin far worse than murdering his parents.


    He would make him pay.


    Oh, Qiao Xiaomai, you¡¯ve gone to great lengths to bring Zhuang Luhe back home?


    A woman like her, who had been tarnished by other men, was no different than a prostitute. Any sane person would stay far away from such a scoundrel; yet, Qiao Xiaomai fretted over such a woman and brought her back to be a mother, only causing trouble for himself.


    Qiao Xiaomai had exposed his weakness to him ¡ª how could he not seize this opportunity to hit him where it hurt? If he didn¡¯t, he would be letting Xiaomai¡¯s foolishness go to waste.


    Right now, Qiao Xiaomai must be full of anger and looking for him, right?


    Very well, he was waiting.


    This time, he wanted to see what Qiao Xiaomai could do to him.

 Chapter 749: 749: Master of Acupuncture

    Chapter 749: Chapter 749: Master of Acupuncture


    This time, Qiao Xiaomai truly couldn¡¯t take him on. The main purpose of Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s visit was to strike a blow against the Sun Family.


    Sun Junyan didn¡¯t care about the Sun Family at all. No matter how harshly the Sun Family was assaulted, Sun Junyan did not feel a shred of sorrow.


    This wolf-hearted, dog-lunged beast would only be truly distressed when his future came under threat.


    Qiao Xiaomai knew this, as did Tong Sang. So when Tong Sang kicked the courtyard door open, Qiao Xiaomai stepped forward, with a swift nce around the courtyard, she began to speak with a smile.


    ¡°Oh look, isn¡¯t this the schr, Sun Junyan who had been suppressed twice by my husband? I see you are living in this poor little courtyard?¡±


    Qiao Xiaomai exaggerated her tone, her peach-flower eyes moved around the courtyard, her face was filled with mockery, ¡°Look at how old this courtyard is, the bricks in the corner are crumbling, it must be at least twenty years old?¡±


    ¡°Tsk-tsk, there are even cobwebs hanging on the doors and windows. Great schr Sun, you became a dog licking the feet of the nobles, yet, you can only afford to live in such a courtyard?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re really at a loss here.¡±


    ¡°Is it because your tongue isn¡¯t nimble enough to serve the nobles? Do you want me to buy you a dog so you can watch and learn every day?¡±


    At the fall of Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s voice, the Sun Family, who had been startled by Tong Sang¡¯s kick, immediately stood up. How could they bear someone mocking their precious son? This was a hundred times more severe than mocking them!


    One hand on her hip, the other pointed at Qiao Xiaomai as they screamed insults, ¡°Where the hell did this lit¡­ Ah!¡±


    Before they could get out the word ¡®harlot¡¯, Tong Sang¡¯s figure faster than a ghost, instantly stood in front of them, delivering a heavy blow to their face.


    The strength was so great it sent them flying to the ground.


    Half of their face was disfigured by the p, several teeth and a mouthful of blood knocked out.


    Tong Sang¡¯s expression was icy, and his approving dark eyes stared unwaveringly at them, ¡°Dare to insult her again?¡±


    ¡°Oh my, daring to insult the schr¡¯s wife? Do you have a death wish!¡± Hua Xiaofeng eximed dramatically, quickly rushing over to sit astride on top of the Sun Family, she held an embroidery needle in her hand, glinting coldly in the sun.


    She giggled coldly, ¡°This mouth of yours is always spewing shit, surely you must eat plenty of it every day. Let me sew it shut for you!¡±


    With these words spoken, she violently stabbed her embroidery needle down towards the Sun Family¡¯s body.


    ¡°Ah!¡± the screams of the Sun Family rang out.


    The strength of Tong Sang¡¯s p had made their head ring, so they were off guard against the nimble Hua Xiaofeng, rapidly jabbing her needle into their body.


    They had never endured such pain before, and the agony was so intense that they were rolling on the ground as if they were twisting a rope.@@novelbin@@


    Hua Xiaofeng used both legs and her left hand to pin down the Sun Family, while the embroidery needle in her right hand kept stabbing into their body, ¡°You old witch, dare to insult the schr¡¯s wife? I¡¯ll turn your mouth to shreds today!¡±


    Standing aside watching all this, Qiao Xiaomai was startled.


    This Hua Xiaofeng had brought a weapon!


    An embroidery needle!


    Qiao Xiaomai thought of a TV show she had seen before. This was the unique skill of a maid from that series, she never thought she would see it again in this different time and space!


    She stood there, wide-eyed and dumbfounded.


    Qiao Meipan was also dumbfounded, but she quickly recovered and spotted a broom leaning against the corner, quickly picking it up to give the Sun Family a hand.

 Chapter 750: 750: She Cried Before I Even Started

    Chapter 750: Chapter 750: She Cried Before I Even Started


    Sun Junyan stood still, his face as gloomy as the deep water.


    He, as a schr, was utterly disgusted by such a quarrel between shrewish women.


    Even if the one being beaten was his own mother, he had no intention of intervening.


    Tong Sang had been paying attention to the situation in the courtyard. He hadn¡¯t watched the drama, and he didn¡¯t know about the secret trick of needle poking. Therefore, shortly after his surprise, he quickly shifted his attention.


    Upon seeing Qiao Meipan about to join the fray with a big broom, he stared at Qiao Meipan with an expressionless face.


    In his mind, there was no so-called gentlemanly action of not hitting women.


    If someone deserved a beating, they should be beaten.


    However, under such circumstances, Qiao Meipan should first make a move. Only then would he have a solid reason to act.


    Otherwise, he would certainly be at a disadvantage if Sun Junyan seized upon the loophole.


    Qiao Meipan was holding the broom in her hand. When her gaze casually fell upon Tong Sang, she saw him staring at her and she froze.


    To her recollection, Tong Sang had never looked at her so attentively before.


    To tell the truth, up until now, she still hadn¡¯tpletely given up on Tong Sang.


    She has met many individuals associating with Sun Junyan, but none of them couldpare to Tong Sang, including the so-called Prince Duan.


    Tong Sang was handsome and held a noble aura. Moreover, he excelled in his own field and had received the title of Juren.


    He ranked first in the previous provincial examination.


    He also ced first in the metropolitan examination.


    Such a young and talented man was rare!


    With such good looks and substantial martial skills, he was truly a top-notch man!


    There probably weren¡¯t many men like him in the entire Daqi.


    Although the Sun Family had been nning to find her a better match these past few days, she was well aware there was no one better than Tong Sang.


    Even if there was someone better, she would not be able to reach their level.


    Therefore, Tong Sang was the best man she could ever meet.


    Moreover, considering the scandal between her and Tong Sang, he was the person¡­.she should marry in this lifetime.


    However, Qiao Xiaomai stood beside him.


    Younger than her, more beautiful than her, and even better at making money¡­


    With Qiao Xiaomai around, she would stand no chance, she could only watch as Tong Sang poured all his affection on Qiao Xiaomai.


    She had no chance.


    Thinking of this, she couldn¡¯t help but feel a pang of sorrow, her eyes misting over with tears.


    Tong Sang ¡°¡­¡±


    He frowned, feeling puzzled.


    Qiao Meipan had started crying even before he made a move, was she trying to falsely use him?@@novelbin@@


    Considering Qiao Meipan¡¯s character, it¡¯s very likely. Previously, she had even brought out an item as embarrassing as underwear!


    Thinking of this, he involuntarily took two steps back.


    At this point, Qiao Xiaomai recovered from her shock, and seeing Hua Xiaofeng at a dominant position made her sneer.


    Dealing with a shrewish woman like the Sun family¡¯s should be just like this.


    She turned her head towards Tong Sang, then caught a glimpse of Tong Sang stepping back and Qiao Meipan¡¯s teary eyes.


    Her eyebrows knitted together.


    What was happening?!


    ¡°She started crying before I could even touch her, is she trying to roll on the ground iming that I hit her?¡± Tong Sang, who stood next to her, leaned over and whispered in her ear.


    Qiao Xiaomai ¡°¡­¡±


    She took another look at Qiao Meipan¡¯s face and then a mocking smile floated up her face, ¡°While her own mother is getting beaten, she¡¯s acting weak and seducing men.¡±


    Hearing that, Hua Xiaofeng, seeking a moment¡¯s respite from the fight, cast a nce at Qiao Meipan and started scolding, ¡°Ptui! You should look at your ugly face, you¡¯re not even worthy of polishing his shoes!¡±

 Chapter 752: 752 The Dog Owner Arrives

    Chapter 752: Chapter 752 The Dog Owner Arrives


    mes seemed to burst from his chest, as though wishing to incinerate him. His eyes were bloodshot as he dropped the bronze mirror, stumbling out once again.


    He had no time to look at the Sun Family matron, still pinned to the ground by Hua Xiaofeng, nor at Qiao Meipan, who was incapacitated by a kick from Tong Sang. He didn¡¯t even spare a nce at Tong Sang or Qiao Xiaomai.


    He quickly left the courtyard, heading to the doctor at the military camp.


    He couldn¡¯t disfigure his face. Absolutely not.


    He would be marrying ady from an aristocratic family in the future, he would be a government official, his face couldn¡¯t be ruined!


    As Sun Junyan struggled to escape, Qiao Xiaomai turned her gaze to Tong Sang.@@novelbin@@


    Tong Sang immediately followed him out.


    Upon seeing Sun Junyan heading to the military camp, Tong Sang turned back, ¡°He¡¯s probably going to seek medical help and lick his master¡¯s boots.¡±


    ¡°Then let¡¯s wait here for his master toe and argue for him.¡± Qiao Xiaomai looked at Hua Xiaofeng still jabbing at the matron and said, ¡°My mother still has a score to settle.¡±


    Hua Xiaofeng had only been focused on the insults shot at her by the Sun Family matron and had forgotten to mention Zhuang Luhe.


    Hearing Xiaomai¡¯s words, she changed her tune, ¡°You old hag! For daring to nder my daughter, I¡¯ll prick your mouth until it¡¯s ruined! I¡¯m getting her back for all those years of torment!¡±


    Upon thinking of this, Hua Xiaofeng pushed her anger forward.


    Although she was harsh with Zhuang Luhe, she only hurled verbal abuse. Luhe was always a flower in full bloom when in Anping vige.


    Upon arriving in Anping Vige, she was so abused by the Sun Family matron that she was like a rotten leaf trampled on in the vegetable market, and yet, the matron still dared to insult her.


    Why did Zhuang Luhe run away?


    Wasn¡¯t it all because of the Sun Family matron!


    Hua Xiaofeng felt an urge to stab her embroidery needle in the matron¡¯s face, but she held herself back, instead jabbing only at her back and buttocks.


    The needle did draw blood, that would be evidence.


    She wondered whether the matron would dare strip off her clothes in the public hall and reveal her numerous wounds to use her!


    The Sun family matron was no match for Hua Xiaofeng and had been seriously injured by Tong Sang at the outset. Therefore, she was pinned to the ground by Hua Xiaofeng and repeatedly jabbed with a needle.


    Over and over again, the intense pain made her struggle fiercely. However, Hua Xiaofeng was stronger and held her down.


    She felt herself bleeding from the back and buttocks. Oh God, why was she the unfortunate one today!


    Qiao Meipan, lying nearby, witnessed Hua Xiaofeng¡¯s fierce and brutal actions, and shivered in fear.


    This must be so painful..


    She had also seen the disfigured appearance of Sun Junyan when he ran out. If she stepped forward now, would her face also be ruined?


    No, no, no, she mustn¡¯t move.


    Her face was her biggest reliance.


    With that thought, she curled up into a ball, lying still on the ground and ying dead.


    This one-sided beating continued until the arrival of Cen Hong.


    Cen Hong got news from Sun Junyan in the military camp. He didn¡¯t bother to see him but immediately came to the courtyard with his light body skills.


    As per their n, the Sun Family matron would insult Zhuang Luhe first, Qiao Xiaomai would not be able to take it, and she would definitely retaliate.


    She would inevitably use force, and if the matron was hit, that would be the evidence!


    ¡°Stop!¡± Seeing Hua Xiaofeng hitting the Sun family matron on the ground, he descended from the roof and yelled in anger, reaching to grab Hua Xiaofeng.


    Tong Sang stood aside, watching. Without a second thought, he drew the soft sword from his waist and thrust it straight towards the hand of Cen Hong.

 Chapter 756: 756: Immature Little Suggestions

    Chapter 756: Chapter 756: Immature Little Suggestions


    Cen Hong followed the county magistrate to the back hall of the County Government Office, and the rest of the people were allowed to disperse.


    Without saying a word, Qiao Xiaomai, Dong Sang, and Hua Xiaofeng turned around and headed towards the door.


    Sun Junyan stared hard at their retreating figures, his eyes filled with resentment.


    He had been saving his face for his marriage to a nobledy.@@novelbin@@


    But now it¡¯s ruined!


    His promising future has been destroyed in one fell swoop, how could he swallow this insult!


    Revenge, he must take a ruthless revenge!


    The hatred in Sun Junyan¡¯s eyes was so intense that it almost materialized. Qiao Xiaomai raised her eyebrows, jumped onto the carriage, and said, ¡°Sang, after returning to Bailu Town, ride your horse quickly back to the manor to get some sweet potatoes, beans, and Xiaomi. Then write a letter to His Highness Prince Wei. I happen to have a immature suggestion that I want to tell him.¡±


    Dong Sang grunted in response, flicked his whip, and the ox cart started to move.


    Standing in the Main Hall, Sun Junyan heard Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s words and couldn¡¯t help grinding his teeth.


    Previously, Qiao Xiaomai often used the ¡°Daqi Law¡± to make a point, insisting on following the ¡°Daqi Law¡± in all matters. Now, having injured someone first, she dared to use Prince Wei to pressure him.


    So what about Prince Wei?


    However powerful he is, can he be more powerful than the ¡°Daqi Law¡±?


    The incident today must be dealt with ording to the ¡°Daqi Law¡±!


    Otherwise, he would personally go to the Capital City to file aint!


    ¡°What¡¯s your immature suggestion?¡± After returning to Bailu Town and leaving Hua Xiaofeng to take care of Zhuang Luhe, Dong Sang asked Qiao Xiaomai before heading out.


    Qiao Xiaomai smiled and said, ¡°I don¡¯t know if Sun Junyan¡¯s face will be scarred after he heals. If he does have a scar, a man with a ghastly scar on his face, such a man being an official would tarnish the reputation of Daqi.¡±


    ¡°There are plenty of schrs in the world, isn¡¯t it just him?¡±


    ¡°Add this rule to the ¡°Daqi Law¡±, cutting off Sun Junyan¡¯s pathpletely.¡±


    ¡°Uh¡­But that seems unfair to others who may unintentionally get facial injuries¡­¡± Dong Sang hesitated for a moment.


    ¡°If it¡¯s unfair, we can remove itter. This rule is specifically designed to target Sun Junyan. Besides, I suspect that there were irregrities in his exams. Hmm, before the Imperial Examination, he was busy hosting banquets to befriend other schrs and frequenting the high-ranking officials in the Prefecture City, bustling about like a butterfly.¡±


    ¡°For someone who¡¯s so busy socializing to win the second ce in the entire Prefecture City against all the other schrs, he¡¯s neither a prodigy nor a genius, there¡¯s definitely something fishy!¡±


    Sun Junyan¡¯s demeanor in the court today, wasn¡¯t just being neither humble nor arrogant, no, it wasn¡¯t that, it was arrogance.


    Sun Junyan, this man, is always trying to climb up thedder. When he encounters someone of higher rank than him, he is almost obsequious.


    But today, facing the county magistrate, he showed none of his usual obsequiousness, even appearing confrontational.


    He stands so straight, this shows that he¡¯s confident in his future.


    So confident that he didn¡¯t even consider the county magistrate in his equation.


    A mere schr, not caring about the county magistrate, does it mean his path ahead is already paved?


    With such an attitude, despite still having to get through the unpredictable final Imperial Examination, there¡¯s something suspicious.


    There¡¯s definitely something suspicious.


    Even if there isn¡¯t anything suspicious, there¡¯s no harm in getting Yang Ye to investigate, is there?


    After all, Sun Junyan¡¯s actions are too abnormal!


    ¡°Without any proof, we shouldn¡¯t use him. After all, Prince Duan is backing Sun Junyan. We need to be careful to avoid being used of ndering Prince Duan.¡± Dong Sang expressed some concerns.

 Chapter 757: 757: The Sun Family Faced a Serious Crime

    Chapter 757: Chapter 757: The Sun Family Faced a Serious Crime


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯m not that foolish. I will just drop a hint. Yang Ye is smart enough, he will understand.¡± Qiao Xiaomai quirked an eyebrow, a smug expression on her little face.


    Sun Family and Sun Junyan were always making trouble for her. This time, she would also give Sun Junyan a taste of his own medicine!


    Thinking of this, she patted Tong Sang¡¯s shoulder, saying, ¡°Good job, mate, your kick was great today!¡±


    He identally caused Sun Junyan¡¯s face to be disfigured. It was so cool.


    Tong Sang looked at her smiling face, the corners of his mouth curving up, ¡°Then, you think about what to write, and I will send a letter to Prince Wei immediately when Ie back.¡±


    ¡°Off you go, then.¡± Qiao Xiaomai waved her little hand.


    Recalling the sight of Lady Sun being immobilized on the ground after being pricked, she clicked her tongue a couple of times.


    What should she do?


    She wanted to visit Lady Sun¡¯s small broken courtyard again, she wanted to see firsthand what this kind of injury really looked like.


    This kind of miraculous technique, if missed this time, who knows when she would be able to see it again?


    Must say, acupuncture, it really is a miraculous technique.


    The embroidery needle pierced into the flesh would cause small beads of blood to rise but wouldn¡¯t continue to flow. However, if there were many pricks, the back would be a honeb, filled with beads of blood. The beads of blood blended together, staining the clothing. It was quite a shocking sight.


    Lady Sun was lying on the clinic bed, howling in pain, as a female doctor was removing her clothes.


    Qiao Meipan sat weakly on a side, ncing at the horrific sight of Lady Sun¡¯s back. She couldn¡¯t help feeling sick, her whole body covered in goosebumps.


    She rubbed her arms, resisting the urge to leave, only averting her gaze.


    Lady Sun¡¯s entire back and bottom were filled with crimson blood and needle marks. The doctor could only clean it bit by bit, then apply medicine and bandage it.


    Even when the needle marks on her body healed, there was still the injury on her face. Today, Tong Sang¡¯s p was too heavy. Not only was she dazed, but she also lost a few teeth. Here, there was no recement for teeth, so from now on, Lady Sun could only chew with her left teeth.


    Lady Sun indeed suffered greatly today.


    ¡°We must seek revenge! Must get it back!¡± She grinded her teeth and spoke with spite.


    ¡°If Cen¡¯s martial arts skills are so great, why not set that shitty manor on fire under the cover of darkness!¡±


    She was always making provocations, each time she came back from provoking, she suffered a huge loss, needed to rest on the bed for a month without moving.


    If Cen has the ability, then let him do it!


    After listening to her, Qiao Meipan hesitated a bit, ¡°With Tong Sang there, I¡¯m afraid it¡¯s not easy to start a fire?¡±


    Last time, during the spring tax handover at the vige entrance, Cen Hong couldn¡¯t get anything over Tong Sang.


    I hope Cen Hong wouldn¡¯t be caught by Tong Sang before the manor was set on fire. Perhaps Cen Hong will be demoted again¡­


    A general demoted to the rank of a county marshal, if he gets demoted again, I¡¯m afraid he might end up as a head instructor in the military camp?


    Thinking of these circumstances, Qiao Meipanforted, ¡°Mother, don¡¯t worry, brother five will surely avenge this injustice for you. Just wait, there will be follow-up actions soon.¡±


    Sun Junyan¡¯s own disfigurement would definitely not be swallowed silently.


    Upon hearing these words, Lady Sun snorted a few times, and then scolded, ¡°Go, make me some chicken soup.¡±


    Qiao Meipan stood up and hurried out of the room to the kitchen.@@novelbin@@


    Now, only her mother and her were at home. Sun Junyan was in the military camp, discussing matters with Cen Hong.

 Chapter 760: 760: VIP System

    Chapter 760: Chapter 760: VIP System


    ¡°I guess so. She was probably scared when this happened. It feels great to vent at the moment, but the trouble starts afterward,¡± Yang Ye answered.


    ¡°What¡¯s your take?¡± asked Yang Wenxiao.


    ¡°Well¡­¡± Yang Ye hesitated, then carefully selected his words. ¡°The Daqi Law is sacred and cannot be vited, butws are dead, and people are alive. We have to consider fairness and popr sentiment.¡±@@novelbin@@


    He initially had no intention of speaking directly.


    But Yang Wenxiao had dered his position on Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s side so clearly. Therefore, he decided it was better to just be straightforward.


    In light of Yang Wenxiao¡¯s impression of Qiao Xiaomai, he should take Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s side in this case¡­


    His mind worked quickly, and he continued, ¡°My grandson is now in charge of revising the Daqi Law. This case involving Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s family is very typical. There may be many women like Zhuang L¨¹he in Daqi who, for the sake of so-called filial piety and reputation, dare not resist and quietly endure unimaginable abuse.¡±


    ¡°But in Daqi, we don¡¯t believe in favoring males over females. Women are also very powerful and valuable, just like Qiao Xiaomai.¡±


    ¡°Therefore, I believe we should put Zhuang L¨¹he¡¯s case up for broad discussion and not rely on the current Daqi Laws for judgment.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Yang Wenxiao sneered.


    His gaze shifted to the window, narrowing slightly, ¡°Yes, we should discuss it.¡±


    ¡°So this issue¡­¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll talk to your Emperor Father about it.¡±


    ¡°In that case, thank you Grandpa Emperor,¡± Yang Ye said, delighted.


    Finally, he hadn¡¯t let Qiao Xiaomai down!


    Yang Wenxiao¡¯s gazended on him again after hearing his words, ¡°This is Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s issue, what are you thanking for?¡±


    ¡°Qiao Xiaomai conducts herself well, so I regard her as a friend.¡±


    Yang Wenxiao nced at him deeply, then returned his gaze to the window, ¡°Let¡¯s go to the Extreme Taste Residence and check out their so-called VIP system.¡±


    ¡°Sure, let¡¯s see who spends the most silver,¡± Yang Ye replied after receiving that intense nce. He quickly changed the topic once Yang Wenxiao did so.


    And so, the grandfather-grandson duo really went to the Extreme Taste Residence. The sudden visit startled the shopkeeper, who promptly tidied up the best private room in the inner courtyard. Seeing Yang Wenxiao and Yang Ye showing interest in the VIP system, he brought out the ount books recording the expenditure of their distinguished guests for them to review.


    ¡°Wow, the threshold is set quite high. It costs two thousand taels of silver just for a bowl of superior white jade flowers,¡± Yang Wenxiao said, jokingly, after reading the numbers recorded in the ount book.


    Yang Ye also joined in theughter, ¡°No choice, Qiao Xiaomai gave us limited resources. Those little things have to be stretched until next year¡¯s autumn harvest.¡±


    ¡°How was the business of the Extreme Taste Residence this month?¡± Yang Wenxiao asked the shopkeeper.


    ¡°Replying to your highness, we¡¯re expecting twice the profit.¡±


    ¡°Very good,¡± Yang Wenxiao smiled, satisfied.


    Perhaps, it was time to reveal the news about the treasure.


    He was uncertain about where the treasure had ended up, and he only trusted the Tong Family to a certain extent. Therefore, he used the Tong Family¡¯s assets as coteral for that batch of treasures.


    Now that the Extreme Taste Residence was thriving, that was good.


    Hmm¡­ since Tiehu Tong once lived by the East Sea, the news about the treasure could be released there, to attract people.


    Yang Ye was unaware that his grandpa emperor had suddenly thought about that treasure again. After having a meal at the Extreme Taste Residence, he apanied Yang Wenxiao on a walk around the capital city, and in the evening, they had dinner together again.

 Chapter 762: 762: The Scandal is About to Leak

    Chapter 762: Chapter 762: The Scandal is About to Leak


    She didn¡¯t want to calcte this ount now, it would definitely hurt her.


    She was quite happy when she got a few thousand taels from He Zhanggui before, but now it seems, these few thousand taels are too little.


    A drop in the bucket.@@novelbin@@


    Tong Sang saw her expression and couldn¡¯t help but pinch her cheek, the touch was silky smooth, ¡°Sweet potatoes are too cheap.¡±


    It¡¯s so cheap that it¡¯s a pitfall for two pounds for one penny.


    Thinking of his family¡¯s ten acres of sweet potatoes, he can¡¯t help but sigh.


    Thirty thousand pounds of sweet potatoes can only get one tael and five pennies of silver, this is too little¡­


    Pathetically little.


    Fortunately, the price of soybeans is a bit higher, but when they nted soybeans, they were thinking of growing bean sprouts.


    Now he¡¯s be a schr, given his family¡¯s disposition, they might look down on the little bean sprout business.


    He hasn¡¯t been home for several days.


    He does not know what the situation at home is now.


    Forget it, anyway his family has food and drink and his father still has over a thousand taels of silver in his hand, the matter here is not over yet, don¡¯t think about that over there.


    ¡°Alright, stop thinking, we now have almost a hundred thousand pounds of sweet potatoes. These sweet potatoes sell for two hundred and fifty pennies a pound, we can definitely make up for the loss.¡±


    ¡°We must make it up!¡±


    On hearing these words, Qiao Xiaomai clenched the silver in her hands.


    So many things needed silver to fill, she had to make money!


    ¡°Ah, by the way, how much sry do you get as a schr?¡± She suddenly remembered this.


    ¡°Five hundred pounds of grain, which are collected from the government office every spring.¡± Tong Sang answered.


    Qiao Xiaomai ¡°¡­¡±


    This is real drop in the bucket!


    ¡°Such a cheapskate!¡± She grumbled with her nose wrinkled.


    In response, Tong Sangughed, ¡°Yes, indeed.¡±


    ¡°But it¡¯s better than nothing, five hundred pounds is the output of two acres.¡± Qiao Xiaomai pursed her lips, quickly shifting her attention.


    She should think about how to exploit the value of sweet potatoes and beans¡­


    Depending on Tong Sang¡¯s sry, that¡¯s absolutely unreliable.


    Soon, Yang Ye sent a letter.


    The letter mentioned Emperor Yongan¡¯s decision to discuss the matter of the Qiao family in the Imperial Court, and Yu Ang personally guarding the front door of Ji Wei Ju to dismiss those nobles who despised dried sweet potatoes.


    This letter also contained a lot of information.


    Qiao Xiaomai held the letter, her peach blossom eyes wide open.


    Yu Ang, the towering prime minister, personally sitting at the door of Ji Wei Ju and having an argument, this was indeed a big news, very interesting.


    And it also helped her vent, since they despised her dried sweet potatoes, they should not eat anything from her house.


    However, as the saying goes, family disgrace should not be aired in public. Are the bad things about her family to be discussed in the Imperial Court of Daqi?


    She had mixed feelings.


    However, Tong Sang calmly said, ¡°This is also quite good. Everyone knows about our family now. If they don¡¯t like it, they can choose not to buy our products, so there won¡¯t be situations like the Sun family where certain nobles identally buy our stuff.¡±


    ¡°But it¡¯s a disgrace for mother.¡±


    Zhuang Luhe woke up.


    Under the daily nagging of Qiao Dami, she woke up.


    But the whole person seemed to have lost her soul, her eyes were wooden and her expression was dumb, staring at one ce for half a day.


    Looking at Qiao Dami, she would sometimes suddenly burst into tears.


    Under these circumstances, she had no choice but to let Qiao Zhaodi and Qiao Yindi take turns to watch her for twelve hours.


    ¡°If she knew that her disgrace has been publicly announced, would she want to hit the wall again?¡± Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s little face wrinkled up at the thought.


    Such weak psychological quality, really¡­


    No more words.


    [End of Chapter Eight]

 Chapter 765: 765: Pressing the Handprint

    Chapter 765: Chapter 765: Pressing the Handprint


    ¡°Sang is correct. Since the matter has already urred, we should be thinking about how to resolve it, not fuming over it,¡± Tong Tiehu said in a solemn voice.


    He wasn¡¯t very worried deep in his heart. Since the emperor emeritus dared to openly discuss this matter, it indicated that he was leaning toward Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s side.


    Plus, they had the support of the Principal from the valley. Even if Yang Wang was stirring up trouble, it should not be too serious.


    Tong Sang hummed in agreement. Feeling the pace of walking too slow, he simply picked up Tong Tiehu and used his martial arts skills to quickly head towards the entrance of the vige, ¡°Father, you can take your time and follow behind!¡±


    Tong Xingda watched Tong Sang flying away, his body trembling with anger.


    Damn it, this was too infuriating!<div>


    If he had known earlier, he definitely wouldn¡¯t have let Tong Sang learn martial arts!


    Seeing Tong Xingda in such a rage, Tong Eng shrank his neck, hoping to avoid having his father unleash his anger on himself.


    The next moment, Tong Xingda caught sight of his cowardly demeanor. He immediately became enraged and kicked at Tong Eng, ¡°Why didn¡¯t you also learn When Sang was learning martial arts!¡±


    Because of this, he could only watch as Tong Sang flew around freely, blowing steam with anger regardless of ring.


    Tong Eng was well-prepared for Tong Xingda¡¯s response. Seeing him lift his foot, he immediately darted quickly towards the vige entrance shouting, ¡°Father, I will go ahead!¡±


    The earlier he caught up with Tong Sang, the sooner he could discuss the matter about borrowing money.


    Tong Xingda, seeing this, also chased after him. Although he couldn¡¯t catch up with Tong Sang, he would surely catch up with Tong Eng!


    This way, the father and son of the Tong family ended up bing a visually captivating spectacle along the route, drawing the attention of many vigers who were working in the fields.


    As he ran, Tong Eng yelled, ¡°Stop your work, stop your work, the Principal has something to say, everyone head to the vige entrance!¡±


    Apanying Tong Eng¡¯s shouting, therge bell at the vige entrance rang.


    Hearing the bell sound, the vigers immediately rushed towards the vige entrance.


    What again has urred?


    The matter indeed was quiterge. After hearing the Principal¡¯s words, all the vigers were struck dumb.


    The small matter between the Sun Family and Zhuang L¨¹he was actually going to be discussed in public by the officials of Daqi¡¯s Imperial Court?


    My God, they were actually witnesses!


    Suddenly, all of them got very excited.


    Watching the spectacle didn¡¯t mean they didn¡¯t mind theplications. Besides, everything the Principal said was true. Everyone had seen the Sun family¡¯s bandit-like behaviors during the past decade or so.


    Moreover, Tong Sang was a schr, a schr!


    There would probably not be another schr from the vige in decades, they must support the schr from their own vige!@@novelbin@@


    Thinking like this, after the Principal¡¯s words, Chen Gun immediately louded, ¡°I¡¯ll press the print, I¡¯ll press the print, I¡¯ve seen all this for so many years!¡±


    Her family was Qiao Xiaomai¡¯s neighbor, she knew better than anyone about what the Sun Family had done.


    From the high tform, Qiao Xiaomai looked at Chen Gun in the crowd and smiled, ¡°Thank you, Auntie.¡±


    She had just lost blood, and her face was still pale.


    Seeing this, Chen Gun waved her hand quickly, ¡°It¡¯s just a matter of course, it¡¯s just a matter of course.¡±


    She had originally thought that Zhuang L¨¹he¡¯s suffering had ended, but another problem popped up.


    Poor people indeed!


    After Chen Gun came forward, the vigers lined up one by one to press their red fingerprints.


    They were not pressing the red print using the ink, the vigers bit their fingers and pressed the imprint on the white silk.


    Qiao Xiaomai watched the simple faces of the vigers, her lips pressed tightly together.


    When she was in need, these vigers lent her their hand, regardless of how they thought internally. At this moment, they all were willing to bite their fingers and press their prints.


    She must repay them.

 Chapter 771: 771: Tong Sanlang Finds Out

    Chapter 771: Chapter 771: Tong Sang Finds Out


    The only certainty is breath, falling into deep sleep, and possibly never awakening.


    Those words frightened Qiao Meipan and the Sun Family into immobility.


    Especially for Qiao Meipan, did this count as patricide?


    The possibility made Qiao Meipan sit shivering in her chair.


    What should she do?@@novelbin@@


    Her beautiful life had just begun!<div>


    ...


    After a while, Sun Junyan came over, and after hearing the doctor¡¯s diagnosis from the Sun Family, he had a sigh of relief and asked the doctor to look at the wound on his neck.


    That¡¯s fine.


    As long as Qiao Qinghe was alive, if Qiao Qinghe died, he would have to mourn for three years, and his yet to begin official career would be dyed for three full years.


    This was quite good, being in constanta, and he wouldn¡¯te to cause trouble actively.


    Just aa?


    He could hire someone to take care of Qiao Qinghe with money, any problem that could be solved with money was not a problem at all.


    Thus, Qiao Qinghe temporarily stayed at the medical clinic and needed to observe for a few days before reaching a conclusion. The Sun family stayed to look after him.


    The woman who was originally recumbent and unwilling to move was full of energy now, and didn¡¯t feel any pain in her back or buttocks.


    Qiao Meipan and Sun Junyan went back to the little courtyard they were temporarily residing in, there had to be someone to cook, make medicine, and do housework.


    Two days passed, Qiao Xiaomai remembered Qiao Qinghe and sent Tong Sang on horseback to check on him in Anping vige.


    ording to Qiao Qinghe¡¯s original n, he should have gone to county town the next day, and now it was the fourth day, Qiao Qinghe should have returned the handcart by now.


    Tong Sang rode to Anping vige very quickly. The gate of the old Qiao residence was locked, and the house was deste and empty.


    He asked the neighbours of the Qiao family and learned that Qiao Qinghe was not at home for the past few days, frowning at the news.


    After thinking for a moment, he turned back to the manor and informed Qiao Xiaomai before galloping towards the county town.


    When he found the small courtyard where the Sun family was temporarily living, only Qiao Meipan was there, making medicine in the courtyard.


    Sun Junyan, Qiao Qinghe and Sun¡¯s Family matriarch were nowhere to be seen.


    Tong Sang jumped off the roof and directly knocked on the door, inquiring the whereabouts of Qiao Qinghe.


    The sudden appearance of Tong Sang startled Qiao Meipan. The hand holding the fire stick trembled, almost tipping over the medical pot.


    She suppressed the panic in her heart and tried to put on a calm front, ¡°What do you need my father for?¡±


    ¡°He is my grandfather, he has disappeared for these past few days, naturally I have to inquire about him.¡± Tong Sang replied expressionlessly.


    ¡°He and my mother have gone out to buy groceries; now that my brother has passed the examination, from now on, our family of four is going to stay in the county town, don¡¯te here in future.¡± Despite the panic in her heart, Qiao Meipanposed her voice.


    Hearing this, Tong Sang looked at the boiling pot of medicine, ¡°Out grocery shopping? Your mother is recovered? Who is this medicine for then?¡±


    With questions being thrown at her one after another, Qiao Meipan¡¯s panic from her heart showed on her face. Upon seeing her so, Tong Sang had more doubts. He set his face and asked, ¡°What exactly happened to grandfather?¡±


    ¡°There is noth¡­¡±


    Before Qiao Meipan could finish her sentence, Tong Sang narrowed his eyes, raised his long leg and ced it on Qiao Meipan¡¯s shoulder. He used a bit of force, and Qiao Meipan¡¯s waist immediately bent down, ¡°Don¡¯t force me to get physical, tell me, where is your father exactly!¡±


    Qiao Meipan was caught off guard that he would get physical so directly, and in such a posture.


    Showing no mercy, he directly pressed her shoulder with his leg, as if he intended to step her under his foot.


    Her face turned pale and she realized she could not hide it anymore.


    ¡°In, in the Medical Clinic¡­¡±


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