General, Your Wife Is Requesting Your Return Home For Farming
Author: Folk Remedies
Date: 2023-07-16T18:00:00+00:00

Chapter 1

“He Tongsheng! Stop right there!”

“Fatty Su! Give up! I will never marry you!”

Today was Fat Lass Su's big day, but her husband actually ran away on her wedding day. She was really angry!

He Tongsheng had been deceived by the matchmaker. There were two Su families in Xinghua Village. One of them was the well-regarded Su family. Their ancestors were commoners and their family background was clean. The daughter they gave birth to was beautiful and had a good reputation. She was the person that all the men in the village wanted to marry.

Although it was not appealing to marry into the family, it was acceptable if it was the beautiful lady of the Su family. In addition, the betrothal gift money given by the other party was really generous. It was a total of 20 taels!

There was hope for him to study!

Who knew that after the rites, he would realize that he had married into the other Su family!

Looking at Fatty Su's fierce face, he wanted to die!

“If you've accepted my betrothal gift, you'll have to be my husband!”

“In your dreams!”

He Tongsheng fled without looking back!

Fatty Su became the laughing stock of the entire village.

She raised her butcher knife and chased after him, but she slipped and tripped. Her head hit the door heavily, resulting in a big bump.

When her biological father, Su Cheng, rushed to her house, she had already fainted at the door.

Su Cheng was terrified. He wanted to hug his unconscious daughter and be a kind father. But he was not able to carry her.

He resorted to shaking his daughter's shoulder with considerable difficulty. “Daya! Don't scare Dad! Wake up!”

“Dad! He escaped to town!”

It was her younger brother, Su Ergou.

Hearing Su Ergou's words, Fat Lass Su, who had finally been woken up, closed her eyes again and fainted.

Su Cheng gritted his teeth in anger and clenched his fists. “Isn't it just a husband? I'll kidnap one up for you!”

Su Cheng did as he said and immediately brought his son out to find a husband for his daughter.

He did not believe that no one would want his daughter!

“Father.”

Su Ergou pointed at the empty village. “The villagers seem to have closed the door.”

Su Cheng was stunned. But he did not give up and brought his son to the official road to raise a complaint.

It was just their luck to have encountered a fight. From the looks of it, a group of bandits had intercepted a passing merchant.

The merchant must have run away, leaving only a masked guard to deal with the bandits.

The father and son hid on a hill not far away and paid close attention to the battle on the official road.

“Dad, which one should we kidnap?” Su Ergou asked from behind the grass.

Su Cheng lay beside him and said cunningly, “The one who can fight the best, has a good waist, and can give birth!”

Su Ergou was puzzled. “Isn't childbirth a woman's business?”

Su Cheng glared at his son. “If a man's waist isn't good, can a woman give birth?”

“Oh.” Su Ergou understood.

After a round of fighting, the masked guard defeated eight mountain bandits, but he also paid a heavy price-he was seriously injured and exhausted.

Therefore, when the Su father and son ambushed him from behind, he did not even have the chance to retaliate before he was covered in a sack.

Just as the father and son were about to carry him away, there was a rustling sound from the carriage.

Was there someone else?

Su Cheng warily took out his firewood knife and opened the curtain!

When he saw the scene in the carriage, he was instantly dumbfounded.

… .

At the Su family.

On the big red wedding bed, Su Xiaoxiao slowly opened her eyes for the eighth time. She was sure that she wasn't dreaming.

She had really transmigrated.

From a dignified military doctor and ace sniper to an ancient fatty with no knowledge and weighing more than 200 kilograms.

Not only was she lazy, but she was also a bully in the village.

She had a bully for a father named Su Cheng and a bully for a brother named Su Ergou.

The family of three abused their power in the village. It was worth mentioning that her father and brother doted on her very much.

Not long ago, she had taken a fancy to a man named He Tongsheng from the neighboring village. Father Su had spent all his family's savings and asked the matchmaker to ask the He family for a son-in-law.

Today was her big day with He Tongsheng. She did not expect He Tongsheng to have been deceived by the matchmaker. After the matter was exposed, He Tongsheng abandoned her and fled the marriage.

This was the first time she had seen a groom run away from his marriage.

What a rare sight!

However, what really surprised Su Xiaoxiao was not this sudden marriage, but that Father Su actually went to the village to find a son-in-law for his daughter's marriage.

Could he really nab a man for her?

Su Xiaoxiao was digesting the memories in her mind when Su Cheng and Su Ergou returned home.

“Daughter! You're awake!”

Su Cheng entered the house and found his daughter lying on the bed in a daze. He rushed over and held his daughter's chubby hand.

“You scared me to death! Don't do anything stupid in the future, understand? That kid surnamed He isn't worth it! I'll chop that kid up and feed him to the pigs one day!”

Su Xiaoxiao wasn't used to her new family. She paused for a moment before saying, “I'm fine.”

Su Cheng said with a serious expression, “Indeed, you're fine. You're not crying anymore.”

Did she have to put on a show and kick up a fuss for her father?

In her memory, Fatty Su was really like this. If she was unhappy, she would fly into a rage at home and throw a tantrum.

Su Cheng doted on his daughter too much and could never bear to teach her a lesson.

This caused Fatty Su's personality to become even more domineering and her temper to become uncontrollable.

Su Xiaoxiao tried her best to maintain her persona. “I've thought it through. He isn't good enough for me! You don't have to do it yourself next time. I'll do it myself!”

“That's my daughter!” Su Cheng was very satisfied.

He sat down on the bed and smiled mysteriously at his daughter. “Dad has good news and bad news. Which do you want to hear first?”

“Either.”

“I captured a husband for you. He's a hundred times better looking than He Tongsheng! You'll definitely like him!”

Jesus!

Did he really kidnap a man for her?

How was she going to maintain her persona next?

“Then, what's the good news?” she asked in a daze.

Su Cheng looked at his daughter strangely. Wasn't what he said just now good news?

Forget it, since his daughter thought that what came next was the good news, he would roll with it.

Su Cheng cleared his throat and changed his words. He grinned and said, “The good news is that you don't have to give birth any more! My son-in-law has already given us children!”

Su Xiaoxiao choked.

What did he mean by that? Was there anyone in this family who was normal?

Su Cheng raised his hand. “Ergou, bring him in!”

“Hey! We're coming over!”

Su Ergou agreed and pushed open his sister's door.

Su Xiaoxiao turned around and saw not one or two, but three… cute little children standing in a row with their bags. They were carried in by her brother, Su Ergou.

Old Father Su spread his hands and chuckled. “Are you surprised that you got three freebies?”

Su Xiaoxiao was speechless.

Chapter 2

Su Xiaoxiao felt terrible.

On the first day of her transmigration, she was halfway through her marriage.

Had she been single for 27 years in her previous life because she had never met such an efficient father who kidnapped a husband and children for her?

“Daughter, daughter, daughter?”

Su Cheng called her.

Su Xiaoxiao didn't react. She fainted again.

It was not that her mental endurance was poor, but that her body had a slight concussion from the fall just now. The action of turning her head to look at the children was too forceful, causing her to faint.

“Dad, why did my sister faint again? Was she frightened?” Su Ergou asked worriedly.

Su Cheng listened to his fat daughter's even snoring and glared at his son in disdain. “Why are you scaring me? With your sister's guts, who can frighten her? She's happy! Didn't you hear your sister say that it's good news!”

Su Ergou was confused. Did his sister mean that?

….

Su Xiaoxiao slept until the afternoon.

Father Su was not at home. He brought Su Ergou and the three children to the village to distribute red eggs and collect a wave of gift money along the way.

The villagers were shocked and angry. They were shocked that Su Cheng had really nabbed a son-in-law for Fatty Su. They wondered which family's son was so unlucky.

What was infuriating was that when the villagers usually held banquets, the Su family would come over to freeload and never give them a copper coin. Now, they had the cheek to ask them for money.

It was simply a disguised robbery!

“Why do you want three portions?”

Auntie Liu glared at him. She was not afraid of the three tyrants of the Su family!

Su Cheng raised his chin arrogantly and hooked his finger at his son.

Su Ergou raised up one of the children and said confidently, “For the wedding, full month celebration, and first birthday!”

Auntie Liu was speechless

The little kids were also speechless.

On the other side, Su Xiaoxiao didn't know that Daddy Su had gone to the village to cause trouble. She hadn't eaten all day and was dizzy with hunger.

In her previous life, she had received very strict training in the army. Hunger training was also one of them, but that was more or less because of her strong physique.

This body clearly could not withstand hunger. She had to find something to eat as soon as possible.

Su Xiaoxiao went to the kitchen.

Although she had the Host's memories, Su Xiaoxiao was still stunned when she stepped into the kitchen.

The walls were cracked, the roof was leaking, and the pot was cracked. The basket on the ground was scattered, and the vegetable leaves and mud sweet potatoes were scattered on the ground. There was also a sticky black substance in the pot.

Su Xiaoxiao felt another assault on her soul. In her previous life, she wouldn't even enter such a kitchen, let alone eat the food inside.

Su Xiaoxiao endured the discomfort in her stomach and packed up. She busied herself for a full hour before finally tidying up the messy kitchen.

Su Xiaoxiao mixed a bowl of corn noodles with some white flour, stir-fried chives, and eggs. She then fried the chives in lard and picked a few complete sweet potatoes to make a pot of sweet potato soup.

In her memory, the original Host had a large amount of staple food, since she had the priority when the food at home was allocated.

The Host ate rice, while Father Su and her younger brother ate porridge. The Host ate white flour, while the father and son ate corn noodles. As for eggs and lard, Father Su and Su Ergou had not tasted them for a long time.

Su Xiaoxiao had originally picked up two chives, but after some thought, she put one back.

Then, she scooped a bowl of sweet potato soup and sat on the small stool in the kitchen to eat.

Suddenly, there was a muffled sound from the room ahead.

She frowned, put down her bowl and chopsticks, and walked towards the house.

At first, she thought that the rest of the Su family had returned. When she entered the room, she realized that there was a man lying on the ground, as if he had just fallen off the bed.

That should be how the commotion just now happened.

Su Xiaoxiao continued to observe him.

The man had broad shoulders, a narrow waist, and a tall figure. His clothes were exquisite, and it was unknown what material they were made of, but they inexplicably gave off an expensive vibe.

The man's fingers were slender and well-defined. There were calluses on his palm.

“A martial artist?”

Su Xiaoxiao gave her preliminary judgment.

In addition, Su Xiaoxiao detected the thick smell of blood from his body.

“Are you hurt?”

Strange, why was there an injured man in the Su family?

Wait a minute, could he be the son-in-law that Father Su had caught for her?

She knew it. How could anyone dare to marry her? Even if he had been kidnapped, he would escape. If it was a seriously injured person, it would make sense.

Su Xiaoxiao blinked, squatted down, and flipped him over.

After all, he was her husband. She had to check the goods.

However, when Su Xiaoxiao's gaze landed on that indescribable face, her eyes widened.

Didn't her father say that he was a hundred times better looking than He Tongsheng?

Was that it?

If Father Su were here, he would definitely be shocked by the scene before him. This was because when he took off the man's mask, he clearly saw a handsome face that was peerless in the world.

Otherwise, he would never want a son-in-law with a burden.

The reason why the man had become like this was that his face had landed on the ground just now when he accidentally fell. His face was now swollen.

The pig head… er, no, the man was awake.

The moment he opened his eyes, he saw a fat woman lying between his legs and doing something to him sneakily. His hair stood on end, and he suddenly reached out his arm to attack her!

Su Xiaoxiao was checking his injuries when she suddenly felt a murderous aura and a chill on her neck.

With the combat skills trained in her previous life, she raised her chubby arm and blocked the other party's wrist with agility!

The man seemed to be prepared and hurriedly used his left hand.

Unexpectedly, he could not move.

Only then did he realize that his left arm and legs were tied up with ropes.

“Who are you!”

He asked coldly!

Su Xiaoxiao relied on her weight advantage and sat on his right arm.

The man with a mountain on his arm could not speak.

Seeing that the other party had completely lost the ability to counterattack, Su Xiaoxiao heaved a sigh of relief. Fortunately, she had the foresight and tied the man up in advance. Otherwise, she would have been crippled if not dead.

“Are you still going to hurt me? If you don't hurt me, I'll untie you.”

Su Xiaoxiao said to the man.

The man's arm bore the weight of his life.

He frowned and said in a cold sweat, “Who are you? What do you want? Where… where are the others?”

“The others? Well, I don't know.”

She really didn't know. When she woke up, there was no one at home.

As for the first two questions, she had to think before answering them.

The man looked at Su Xiaoxiao skeptically.

Su Xiaoxiao said without changing her expression, “Here's the situation. You fainted on the way and my family saved you. I was checking your injuries!”

The man looked at his loose belt and said with a dark expression, “Do you need to take off my pants to check my injuries?”

Su Xiaoxiao said confidently, “There's blood on your pants. I have to see where you're injured!”

The man said coldly, “That's not my blood!”

Su Xiaoxiao spread her hands. “I know now.”

The man clenched his fists and gritted his teeth. “So you've already…”

Su Xiaoxiao was silent.

Su Xiaoxiao looked at the sky. “Anyway, it's not like it looks very good.”

The man was dumbfounded.

Chapter 3

Was there actually such a shameless person in the world who despised him after seeing him naked?

How ridiculous!

Forget it! As a man, he would not argue with women!

Su Xiaoxiao looked at the man who was still murderous a second ago and suddenly fell silent.

She raised her eyebrows.

Eh? Was he lying flat now?

The man had not given up. He had calmed down.

The most important thing now was the safety and whereabouts of the three children. His own situation was really not worth mentioning.

He remembered that he had been ambushed from behind and woke up there.

What the hell had happened?

Su Xiaoxiao stretched out her chubby hand and waved it in front of the man. “Why are you in a daze? Why are you suddenly silent? Have you become stupid after I sat on you?”

She moved her fat butt slightly. “There, I won't press on you anymore.”

He was already numb!

The man looked at Su Xiaoxiao coldly. He regarded Su Xiaoxiao with suspicion, wariness, and vigilance. However, he did not look at her with disdain.

One had to know that since she was young, the Host had received too many strange gazes.

Although it could not be said that everyone in the village had ill intentions toward her, the man in front of her was the first to not show any abnormalities.

The man frowned and asked, “You said that your family saved me. Did they say anything else?”

Well, they said that he was her husband.

And that he gave her three children.

Su Xiaoxiao squatted on the ground and drew circles with her finger, thinking about how to smooth things over.

From the man's angle, he saw a fat girl with a round head. Every hair on his body emitted an aura of irritability.

The man winced.

Gulp.

The man's stomach growled.

“Huh?” Su Xiaoxiao looked up in confusion. “Are you hungry?”

The man was embarrassed.

Before he could speak, Su Xiaoxiao stood up and dusted her hands. “I'll get you something to eat.”

Seriously, this man had forgotten that he had not eaten!

Su Xiaoxiao went to the kitchen to bring two bowls of sweet potato soup and a plate of chives. One of the bowls was cold.

“Do you want me to feed you or do you want to eat it yourself?” Su Xiaoxiao asked.

“I'll eat it myself. Untie me,” the man said. Seeing that Su Xiaoxiao didn't move, he frowned and added, “I won't hurt you.”

Su Xiaoxiao untied the rope around his arms and legs and helped him onto the bed. She brought a pillow for him to lean on.

His injuries were mainly on his abdomen and legs. His upper limbs were unrestricted and he could eat on his own.

Su Xiaoxiao moved the small table in her room to his bed and placed a bowl of steaming sweet potato soup on it with a plate of chives.

She was usually too lazy to get out of bed. This was how Father Su and Su Ergou fed her.

The man looked at the food on the table and did not have much of an appetite. However, he had to recover his strength as soon as possible.

He forced himself to take a sip of the sweet potato soup and was surprised to find that it tasted very good.

The sweet potato's sugar was boiled into the soup. It was sweet with a slightly salty taste. Coupled with a little fresh spring onion, the taste was not inferior to the ones cooked by the chefs in the capital.

He tried the chives again. It was crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. The taste was also very stunning.

Was this woman behind all of this? It was unbelievable.

“What's your name?” Su Xiaoxiao, who was drinking soup at the table, asked.

The man hesitated for a moment before saying, “Wei Ting.”

“Su Daya.”

Su Xiaoxiao also reported the name of this body.

Wei Ting did not say anything else. He endured the pain in his body and continued to eat.

Su Xiaoxiao glanced at him from time to time.

Ignoring that pig-headed face, just by looking at his eating movements, she could see that he exuded a noble aura.

However, this person's aura was very cold.

How could she describe it?

It was as if he had crawled out of a pile of corpses and used the corpses to accumulate his killing aura.

This man must have killed more than one person!

Did Father Su know what kind of trouble he had nabbed?

Moreover, she had just checked him. There were many cuts and injuries on his body. Two deep gashes were on his upper right abdomen and left calf.

There were traces of simple treatment on the wound. Father Su must have applied medication to his wounds.

Even so, he had lost too much blood. His pulse and aura were very weak. Coupled with the wound and bruise on his abdomen, she could not rule out the possibility of internal bleeding.

In short, his injuries were much worse than they actually looked.

Had she been in her previous life, she would have full confidence in curing him, but now…

….

After dinner, Wei Ting rested.

Su Xiaoxiao was also exhausted, mainly because her body was too fat. She could eat and sleep, but she couldn't work.

Su Xiaoxiao finished washing the dishes and fell onto her bed.

She was probably thinking about that man's injuries. In her daze, she dreamed that she had returned to the base's pharmacy.

This was a medical pharmacy on the top floor of the research building. It was still in the construction stage and had yet to be used. Not many people were qualified to enter.

Su Xiaoxiao was one of them.

She grabbed the first aid kit on the table and picked some emergency medicine from the shelf to put in.

As she was selecting, she woke up.

Su Xiaoxiao smiled. How professional was she? She was even thinking about treating that man in her dreams.

The next moment, she couldn't smile.

She suddenly saw a first-aid kit in her hand.

….

“Daya! I'm back!”

Su Cheng's bright and happy voice came from outside. Su Xiaoxiao stuffed the first-aid bag back into the blanket.

“Steady,” she told herself, “Don't panic.”

Su Xiaoxiao smiled and calmly left the room.

After Su Cheng and Su Ergou returned from robbing the villagers, they went to town and bought Su Daya's favorite snacks.

The three children were forced to work for the entire day. On the way back, they fell asleep from exhaustion. Su Ergou held one in each arm while Father Su carried one.

Su Xiaoxiao had fainted too quickly and didn't see their faces clearly. Now that she took a closer look, she couldn't help but exclaim in her heart.

They had round faces, exquisite facial features, and long eyelashes. They were the best-looking children she had ever seen. Their quiet and obedient appearance after falling asleep made one's heart soften.

She did not expect that man to have such cute children.

Su Xiaoxiao poked the faces of the three little fellows.

Oh.

So soft.

The three little fellows opened their eyes one after another as if they had been woken up by Su Xiaoxiao.

“Eh? Dad, they're awake!” Su Ergou was about to cry. “They're finally awake. I'm so tired!”

After carrying them for a few kilometers, his arm was about to break!

Su Xiaoxiao gave the triplets a strange look.

Was it an illusion?

Why did it feel like they had not just woken up?

Could it be that they had pretended to be asleep along the way and used Father Su and Su Ergou as a means of transportation?

She must be thinking too much.

Two- or three-year-old babies like them wouldn't be so scheming!

Chapter 4

The three children jumped to the ground obediently. Their eyes were cute, and it was obvious that they were children without schemes.

“What are your names?” Su Xiaoxiao asked.

The three children circled behind Su Ergou and hid their heads shyly, looking like three little mimosas and making Su Xiaoxiao's heart melt.

“Are they crying?” Su Xiaoxiao asked.

Su Ergou said, “Don't cry. Be good!”

Su Xiaoxiao looked behind Su Ergou. The three children were stealing glances at her and were caught by her. They immediately retracted their heads.

“They just don't like to talk,” said Su Ergou.

Su Cheng took out the things he had bought in town from the basket and placed them on the table.

The three children walked over and stood on their tiptoes. They grabbed his basket and craned their necks to look in.

“Are you looking for this?” Su Cheng picked up a bamboo leaf bag on the table and opened it. Inside were three sticks of candied hawthorn that were half-eaten.

The candied hawthorn was very expensive. Su Cheng was only generous to his daughter and was stingy with others. He didn't want to buy it at first, but who knew that the moment he turned around, the three children would bite him?

Su Cheng felt intense pain all the way.

The three children grabbed the candied hawthorn and went to the room to look for their father.

Unexpectedly, not long after they entered the room, they ran out with the candied hawthorns in their hands.

Wei Ting fell so badly that even his own children wouldn't recognize him. Su Cheng and Su Ergou entered the house and were stunned.

Where was the handsome son-in-law they had kidnapped?

How did he become a pig head after not seeing him for a day?!

Su Xiaoxiao crossed her arms and leaned against the door frame. She said calmly, “Is this the man you said is a hundred times better-looking than He Tongsheng?”

Su Cheng cleared his throat. “Daughter, believe me. He's really good-looking.”

Su Ergou was curious. “Sister, did you beat him up?”

Su Xiaoxiao was speechless.

“He fell himself!”

Why would she beat him up for no reason? Was he really her biological brother?

Since it was a fall, he would be fine after he recovered. Su Cheng was relieved and asked Ergou to coax the three frightened children. He then pulled his daughter to the central room.

He pointed at a box of snacks on the table and said, “Dad bought you your favorite osmanthus cake. It's from Jin Ji!”

Jin Ji's snacks were not cheap. This small box cost one tael of silver, and their meals were only three to five copper coins a catty.

“Didn't we spend all our money?”

If she remembered correctly, Father Su had put his own savings into He Tongsheng's marriage.

Su Cheng smiled. “We've got gift money!”

Su Xiaoxiao muttered, “What kind of gift is so expensive?”

She naturally did not know that Su Cheng had robbed three portions of money.

There were a total of six osmanthus cakes in the box. It was obvious that Su Cheng and Su Ergou did not have any.

“You haven't eaten, have you?” she asked.

Only then did Su Cheng remember that he had been out for an entire day. “You must be hungry. Dad will cook!”

“No need, I've done it.” Su Xiaoxiao turned around and went to the kitchen to bring out the sweet potato soup and chives. She said to Su Ergou, who was playing with a few small children at the door, “Ergou, it's time to eat!”

“Hey! We're coming over!”

Su Ergou led the three children into the house and sat down to eat.

He looked at the delicious chives and sweet potato soup on the table and said in surprise, “Dad, did you make this?”

Su Cheng said, “Your sister made it.”

Su Ergou looked as if he had seen a ghost. “No way? My sister…”

Before he could finish, Su Xiaoxiao opened a box of osmanthus cake. “You guys eat this too. From today onwards, I want to lose weight, so I won't eat these sweets.”

Then, as if to show her determination, she entered her room without looking back.

It took Su Ergou a long time to come back to his senses. He asked in a daze, “Dad, is Sister… crazy?”

Su Cheng slapped his son on the head. “Your brain is the one that's broken!”

Su Ergou touched his numb head and muttered, “Then what's going on?”

His daughter's behavior today was indeed abnormal, but Su Cheng did not think too much about it. He only felt that his daughter had been too agitated by He Tongsheng's rejection of the marriage, which resulted in a change in her personality.

Su Ergou picked up some of the chives suspiciously. “Is Sister's food edible?”

The next second, he was slapped in the face.

His sister's food was too delicious!

… .

The Su family had a total of four rooms. Two were in the east and two were in the west. The east room in the south was the largest and had the best lighting. It was Su Xiaoxiao's wedding room.

Wei Ting was recuperating in another east room.

Su Cheng and Su Ergou lived in two west rooms, and the three children rested in Su Ergou's room.

At night, the family fell asleep.

Su Xiaoxiao quietly got up.

She took out the first-aid bag from under the blanket, opened it, and counted. It was the medical medicine she had put in.

How could this be?

Had the first-aid kit come through her dream?

She couldn't figure it out. Was this science or theology?

“Forget it. Saving a life is more important.”

Su Xiaoxiao took the first aid kit and an oil lamp to Wei Ting's room.

She closed the door and turned the wick to its brightest. There was still not enough light. She brought the oil lamps from the other houses.

As she had expected, Wei Ting's injuries had worsened and his situation was very critical.

Su Xiaoxiao didn't delay any longer and unbuttoned his clothes.

Although she had already seen it once, she couldn't help but sigh-this man's figure was too good.

His abdominal muscles were well-defined and smooth. His arms and chest muscles were full and firm. Even the mottled scars seemed to emit the power of battle damage.

Su Xiaoxiao washed his wounds with saline. The knife wound between his abdomen and calf needed to be stitched up.

At this moment, Wei Ting opened his swollen eyes slightly.

“Can you hear me?” Su Xiaoxiao asked him softly.

Wei Ting's consciousness was blurry.

Su Xiaoxiao continued, “I'm going to stitch up your wound. Don't move.”

It was unknown if he understood, but he couldn't move in his current state.

Su Xiaoxiao gave him local anesthesia. After suturing the wound, she wrapped it with gauze. During the entire process, she could feel that Wei Ting had been trying hard to maintain his consciousness.

She took out two anti-inflammatory pills and let Wei Ting consume them.

At this point, Wei Ting could no longer hold on. He closed his eyes and fell asleep.

He was asleep, but Su Xiaoxiao was still busy.

Su Xiaoxiao applied medicine to the rest of his injuries and carefully checked his pulse again. She observed the location of his injuries and eliminated the possibility of internal bleeding. It was a relatively light hematoma.

As long as this situation did not worsen, it could be treated with medicine.

….

The next day, Su Xiaoxiao woke up early.

What she said last night about losing weight was true, and she had already formulated a weight loss plan in her heart.

The first step was to quit the habit of being lazy and make herself move.

With her current weight, it was not suitable for her to exercise vigorously on the ground. She would hurt her knees, so she could start with simple housework.

She went to the kitchen to light the fire.

Last night, she made sweet potato soup. Today, she switched to making sweet potato pancakes.

First, she cut the sweet potato into cubes and coated them with corn flour. The sweet potato itself was sweet, and she could just sprinkle some salt into the corn flour.

The sweet potatoes were wrapped in corn paste mixed with spring onions. When they were fried in the oil pot, half of the village was enveloped in fragrance.

She steamed a few too.

She and Wei Ting ate steamed food.

Chapter 5

After Su Xiaoxiao placed the sweet potato cake into the steamer, she carried a basin of dirty clothes to the river behind the village.

This was running water that flowed through several villages. Usually, everyone would come here to wash clothes and rice.

It was dawn, but there were already many people washing clothes.

When everyone saw Fatty Su appear with a wooden basin, they all thought that they had seen a ghost!

This lazy woman actually woke up early to work? Were their eyes playing tricks on them, or had the sun risen from the west?

No, Fatty Su must be here to extort money!

Everyone's eyes were filled with fear. Without waiting for Su Xiaoxiao to approach, they picked up the buckets and ran!

Su Xiaoxiao shrugged helplessly and found a place to squat by the river.

There was no industrial pollution in ancient times. The water source was clean and clear. Even the air she breathed was refreshing.

Su Xiaoxiao took out the clothes and spread them on a large rock. She rubbed them with soap and used a wooden stick to remove the soap from the clothes. She washed them with water and repeated the process.

After washing the basin of clothes, Su Xiaoxiao broke out in a sweat.

Su Xiaoxiao carried the wooden basin and walked back. Coincidentally, she bumped into Liu Shan's eldest daughter-in-law, Little Wu, walking towards the river with a basin of clothes.

Little Wu also saw her and trembled in fear. The wooden stick in her basin fell to Su Xiaoxiao's feet.

Little Wu was frightened. She wanted to pick it up but didn't dare to.

Su Xiaoxiao freed one hand and bent down to pick up the wooden stick.

Little Wu hurriedly closed her eyes!

Clunk.

The expected pain did not come.

Little Wu opened her eyes fearfully and looked at the wooden stick in the basin. She turned around in disbelief. Fatty Su had already walked away without saying a word.

“She… just… left?”

… .

In the Su family, the three children woke up.

Su Ergou would sleep until late in the morning, and so would Su Cheng. As for Wei Ting, he was seriously ill and was still unconscious.

No one dressed the three children. They went down barefoot.

They walked around the house. None of the adults could be woken up.

At this moment, the chattering of children came from next door. The three of them walked out curiously.

Liu Shan and his family lived next door.

The eldest daughter-in-law, Little Wu, had gone to wash her clothes. At this moment, the person shouting was the son of the second daughter-in-law, Madam He. His name was Niu Dan.

Niu Dan was seven years old this year and was the only grandson of the Liu family.

“Mother! Put on my clothes!”

“Okay, okay, okay. Wait a moment. Let your father drink the medicine first.”

A few days ago, Father Niu went to the fish pond to dig for lotus roots and sprained his waist. The doctor prescribed some herbs to promote blood circulation.

The three children stood on their tiptoes and leaned on the windowsill, looking at the family in a daze.

Niu Dan had already seen the three little children and knew that they were the new burdens of the Su family. He looked down on them.

He stuck out his tongue in disdain. “Lue! I'll beat you to death!”

“Come down!” Madam He patted her son's butt and pressed him onto the bed. She took his clothes and put them on him.

“Mother, I want to eat sugar eggs!” said the Niu Dan.

“Okay! I'll make it for you!” Madam He said.

She had many daughters at home, and only she had a son. The entire family doted on him. Not to mention a sugar egg, she could get him two.

Niu Dan held the sugar-flavored egg his mother had made and ate it while watching the three little children.

When Su Xiaoxiao arrived home with the wooden basin, she saw the triplets watching the Niu Dan eat.

The three of them were barefooted and their clothes were thin.

Su Xiaoxiao frowned and put down the wooden basin.

When Niu Dan saw Fatty Su, he immediately stopped being arrogant and turned to run.

Su Xiaoxiao brought the three little ones home and put clothes and shoes on them.

The three of them were thinner than she had expected.

Judging from Wei Ting and their clothes, they did not look like they could not afford to eat. Why were they so thin?

“Are you hungry?” she asked.

The three children nodded.

“I'll get you something to eat.” Su Xiaoxiao entered the kitchen.

The three children followed her in and stared at the eggs in the basket.

“Do you want to eat this?” Su Xiaoxiao asked.

All three nodded.

Su Xiaoxiao cracked three sugar eggs, one for each of them.

The stove house had just been lit and was warm. Su Xiaoxiao moved a small stool over and let the three of them sit in the stove house to eat.

She went to Wei Ting's room and woke him up. “It's time to take your medicine.”

Wei Ting opened his eyes in a daze.

Su Xiaoxiao helped him up and fed him anti-inflammatory medicine and blood-reducing medicine.

Wei Ting did not want to eat for the time being and fell asleep again.

This scene was witnessed by the three children who were peeping at the door.

They thought of the woman they had seen at the house next door this morning.

The woman fed medicine to Father Niu, dressed Niu Dan, and made sweetened eggs for him.

Niu Dan called her mother.

… .

Su Xiaoxiao went to wake Su Ergou up and asked him to stay at home to see the children and the patient. She had to go to town.

Although Su Cheng had gone to town yesterday, he was a man and did not know how to plan his life carefully. The first thing he did after robbing the money was not to buy rice and noodles for his family, but snacks for his daughter.

Most of the money had been spent on snacks, leaving less than two hundred copper coins.

It was almost the end of the year, and prices were rising. It was already difficult for a family with two hundred copper coins, let alone one with four mouths at home.

She had to think of a way to earn money.

As she was thinking, a sharp shout suddenly came from diagonally ahead.

“Fatty Su!”

“Oh?”

“He Tongsheng?”

He Tongsheng's real name was He Jian. He was the third son of the He family.

After breaking off the engagement yesterday, Ergou said that he had escaped to town. She did not expect to meet him at the entrance of the market today.

Beside him stood two young men dressed like scholars. They should be his classmates.

He Tongsheng walked over angrily and said in extreme disgust, “Fatty Su, that's enough! Don't haunt me!”

Su Xiaoxiao frowned. “Do you think I'm here for you?”

He Tongsheng asked coldly, “Aren't you?”

“That's true.” Su Xiaoxiao nodded and stretched out her hand.

He Tongsheng dodged like a snake and retreated. “What are you doing?”

Su Xiaoxiao smiled. “The betrothal gift. Don't tell me you only call off the marriage and not the betrothal gift?”

“You!”

“What about? I'm warning you, don't talk nonsense with me. You only have to pay money after a few gropes at the brothel. Firstly, I didn't marry you, and secondly, I didn't consummate the marriage with you. Don't think about reneging on a copper coin!”

He Tongsheng was furious!

This fat woman… actually compared him to a prostitute!

Damn it!

However, he had already spent a portion of the money!

Su Xiaoxiao said calmly, “If you don't return it, we'll have to meet at the government office.”

He Tongsheng gritted his teeth and said, “Aren't you afraid of embarrassing yourself by causing trouble in the government office?”

Su Xiaoxiao asked, “What's face? Can it be eaten? Besides, aren't you the one who's embarrassed? You accepted the betrothal gift and agreed to the marriage.”

He Tongsheng blushed. “I was deceived by the matchmaker.”

Su Xiaoxiao looked at him coldly.

“To think that you've read so many sage books for so many years. Even a countryside matchmaker can deceive you. Anyone who's not stupid can't fall for this!”

“I think you should stop studying! Go home and farm! The water in your brain might be able to water two acres of land!”

Chapter 6

He Tongsheng was furious!

Ever since he was young, he had always been the smartest and proudest person in the village. When had he ever been suppressed and humiliated like this?

Was this still the fatty from the Su family who only knew how to slash at people?

When did she become so eloquent?

The two classmates and the passersby surrounded them. Su Xiaoxiao's words were clear and logical. Even if they didn't know beforehand, they understood the cause and effect.

It turned out that this scholar had been deceived by the matchmaker. Then, on the day of the wedding, he broke off the engagement. Now, he was not returning the betrothal gift.

“Miss, how much money does he owe you?”

“Twenty taels!”

Gasps sounded all around!

Taking a wife only cost two taels of silver. Although it was a little expensive to take a lived-in son-in-law, it would not exceed six taels. On account that he was a scholar and was handsome, one would give ten taels at most.

Still…

Everyone looked at Su Xiaoxiao's fat body and roughly understood why she had offered such a high price.

This appearance in the countryside… was indeed unwanted.

“Fatty Su! Look at yourself!” He Tongsheng said angrily.

Su Xiaoxiao said calmly, “What kind of person am I? Did I delay you from owing my family a betrothal gift?”

Everyone couldn't help but nod secretly. This fat girl's logic was very outstanding. She had never been led by the nose by that scholar.

She spoke logically. On the other hand, the scholar was so agitated that he actually scolded a little girl on the street.

The difference in intelligence between the two was obvious.

At this moment, even the two classmates could not help but frown at He Tongsheng.

There were more and more strange gazes around.

He Tongsheng said angrily, “S-S-Maybe you guys colluded with the matchmaker to trick me! Yes! That must be it!”

Su Xiaoxiao nodded. “In that case, I'll see you in court.”

With that, she turned around and walked towards the government office.

If He Tongsheng thought she was threatening him, he was right.

There was a man of unknown origin at home. How could she let the government officials turn their attention to the Su family without establishing the other party's true identity?

However, from the conversation just now, He Tongsheng did not know that she already had a husband.

Otherwise, with his attitude, he would have scolded her for being shameless.

He Tongsheng was a scholar. If this matter tainted him, he would very likely lose the chance to obtain an academic title.

“Stop!”

He Tongsheng threatened, “Your Su family is tyrannical in the village and has done many shameful things. Can you really come out after entering the government office?”

Su Xiaoxiao ignored him.

In terms of psychological warfare, a stupid scholar was not enough to fill the gaps between her teeth.

As expected, when they reached the corner, He Tongsheng gritted his teeth and forced himself to chase after them.

“Fatty Su!”

Su Xiaoxiao smiled. “Have you decided to return the money?”

She was still the same person, but for some reason, this smile made He Tongsheng fall into a trance for a moment, giving him the illusion that Fatty Su was attractive.

He turned around and said in a charitable tone, “I can return you half of the silver. Let's forget about this matter.”

“You dropped something.” Su Xiaoxiao looked at his feet.

“What?” He looked down to find it.

“Face.”

He Tongsheng was speechless

“Officer.” Su Xiaoxiao walked towards the constable who was patrolling the wine shop opposite.

He Tongsheng's eyebrows twitched. “Ten, fifteen taels! Fifteen taels should be enough!”

Su Xiaoxiao didn't seem to hear him and continued walking toward the constable.

“Eighteen taels!”

Su Xiaoxiao came to the constable.

“Anything?” the constable asked.

“I'll give it to you!”

He Tongsheng stomped his feet!

Su Xiaoxiao smiled. “I want to ask Brother Officer how to get to Jin Ji.”

… .

Su Xiaoxiao took five taels of silver from He Tongsheng and asked him to write an IOU for the remaining fifteen taels. He would have to pay it off within three days.

Then, Su Xiaoxiao went to the boutique.

Buying clothes was not in the original plan. After all, 200 copper coins were not much.

Now that she had money, she wanted to get Wei Ting and the three children to change into some countryside clothes.

“For your husband and child?” The lady boss was very enthusiastic.

Su Xiaoxiao smiled.

After coming out of the ready-made clothes shop, she still had four taels of silver left.

She went to the grain shop and bought 20 catties of cornmeal, 10 catties of white flour, and 10 catties of rice.

When she went to buy meat, the stall was almost closed.

“How much is the cured meat?” she asked.

The butcher was a young man. He said, “50 copper coins a catty. It's all good meat!”

“That's expensive.”

“I have the cheapest here! Go ask someone else. It's at least sixty copper coins!”

“Where's the fresh meat?” Su Xiaoxiao asked.

The butcher said, “The business is closed. If you want, I'll sell it to you for ten copper coins a catty.”

In ancient times, salt was expensive. The cost of cured meat was high, so the price was naturally high.

Su Xiaoxiao decided to buy fresh ribs and pork belly and cook them herself.

Seeing that she had bought dozens of catties in one go, the butcher smiled and asked, “Miss, there's still a bowl of pig offal here. If you don't mind, you can take it. Anyway, I'm closing the stall.”

Pig offal was a good thing in her previous life, but it was not so popular in ancient times. The main reason was that no one knew how to prepare it.

Of course, it was not so bad that no one would buy it even if it was thrown away. After all, poor commoners could not eat much meat in a year. At least, there was some meat in the offal.

“Thanks.”

To make cured meat, salt and spices were indispensable.

It was almost afternoon when Su Xiaoxiao finished buying.

Su Xiaoxiao couldn't move so many things back herself.

She was lucky to meet Old Li at the entrance of the market.

Old Li had just sold two old hens and bought two catties of brown sugar for his grandson and pregnant daughter-in-law. He also brought some New Year goods for the villagers.

“Grandpa Li.” Su Xiaoxiao greeted him.

Old Li pulled the ox cart and ran!

Su Xiaoxiao blocked his way.

“Grandpa Li, I'm going back to the village. Please give me a ride.”

In the past, Fat Lass Su was not so polite. She always called him Old Li and did not greet him before sitting down in the cart.

If he was lucky, Fatty Su would just not give him the fare.

If he was unlucky, Fatty Su would extort some money from Old Li.

Old Li cursed himself for being unlucky. He had just been extorted of money yesterday, and now he had encountered it again!

He did not think that Fatty Su would be magnanimous just because she was polite to him.

Old Li was about to cry, but what could he do?

If he made this little bully unhappy, the Su family still had two bullies with stronger fists!

Old Li pulled a long face and let Su Xiaoxiao get into the ox cart with the goods.

Halfway back to the village, the ox cart was stopped.

They were three hoodlums in town. The leader was called Brother Dao, who was a few years younger than Su Cheng. He had just been released from the government office not long ago.

He spun the knife in his hand and glanced at Su Xiaoxiao with a surprised smile. “Yo? Isn't this Brother Su's daughter? What a coincidence.”

Old Li's expression changed.

It was over. He was going to lose everything in this ox cart!

Unless Fatty Su helped him-

But Fat Lass Su would never help him!

It was impossible…

Chapter 7

Su Xiaoxiao smiled. “Uncle Dao, what a coincidence.”

In her memory, the Host had called him that.

His real name was Zhang Dao. Many years ago, he had been an escort with Su Cheng. Later on, the two of them gave up their careers as escorts. One became a hooligan in town, and the other became a bully in the village.

In the first few years, the two of them still had some interactions, but they gradually distanced themselves.

Zhang Dao felt very comfortable being called Uncle Dao. He smiled and asked, “How is your father recently?”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “As usual. I think Uncle Dao is getting more energetic.”

It was just a formality. She could ramble on for ages but she wondered if he had the patience to continue listening.

Of course, Zhang Dao did not have the time. He was here for serious business, not to chat with an unfamiliar fat girl.

He went straight to the point. “Little niece, I know your father, and you call me uncle. Forget it today.”

As he spoke, he turned his malicious gaze to Old Li. “Old man, we've been a little tight on money recently. Can you lend us some money to spend?”

Old Li refused in his heart.

The ox cart contained not only his family's things but also those of the villagers'. If they were snatched away, he could not afford to compensate them!

His daughter-in-law was about to give birth, so the old lady asked him to sell the last two old hens at home. He was carrying the money to pay for his grandchild's birth!

What was he going to do?

“Brothers, attack!”

“Alright, Brother Dao!”

“Uncle Dao.”

Su Xiaoxiao said calmly, “My things are on the ox cart.”

“Oh?” Zhang Dao gestured and the two of them stopped moving.

He looked at Su Xiaoxiao with a faint smile. “Which are my niece's things?”

Su Xiaoxiao smiled. “They are all my things.”

Zhang Dao frowned and his expression turned cold.

Old Li looked at Su Xiaoxiao in surprise.

Of course, he didn't think that Fatty Su was protecting him. He only felt that Fatty Su was really bold to dare to snatch things from the hooligans in town.

Zhang Dao came to Su Xiaoxiao.

Su Xiaoxiao sat and he stood.

He stared straight at Su Xiaoxiao. “Are you sure everything in the car is yours?”

“Uncle Dao, if you don't believe me, you can ask him.” Su Xiaoxiao was calm as if she didn't feel the threat in his eyes and tone.

Zhang Dao sneered. “My niece is different from before.”

Su Xiaoxiao smiled. “I've grown up.”

What a calm girl!

Zhang Dao looked at Old Li.

Old Li lowered his head and didn't say anything.

In any case, he would be robbed. Whether it was by Fat Lass Su or these men, it was all the same to him.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Uncle Dao said that he wouldn't make things difficult for me. He won't go back on his word, right?”

Zhang Dao clenched his fists and grabbed Old Li's collar. “Hand over your silver!”

Old Li touched his money bag, but only took out a few sparse copper coins.

Where was his money?

Su Xiaoxiao said regretfully, “Looks like Uncle Dao is unlucky today.”

Zhang Dao clenched his left fist so hard that it cracked. “Hmph!”

He let go of Old Li angrily!

Su Xiaoxiao smiled and said, “Uncle Dao, take care.”

Then, she said calmly to Old Li, “Hurry up and return to the village. How long do you want my father to wait?”

“I-”

Old Li's heart ached for his 200 copper coins!

His hard-earned money!

Which dirty hand took it away!

Su Xiaoxiao snatched the whip and chased the ox cart away!

Zhang Dao looked at the ox cart coldly.

Suddenly, he smelled the fragrance of sorghum.

Su Cheng did not drink!

He shouted, “Stop right there!”

Oh no! She had exposed herself!

Zhang Dao had never been a good person. He gave Su Cheng some face not because of their past friendship, but because the two of them minding their own business.

Yet this girl actually tricked him! She treated him like a fool!

He had no choice but to teach this girl a lesson!

“Big Brother, that little girl…”

“Teach her a lesson. Let her kowtow a few times and leave her things behind.”

They knew how to do this!

They were simply very familiar with it!

The two burly men strode towards Su Xiaoxiao.

An ox cart was not a carriage. It could not run quickly. Therefore, the moment she discovered that she had exposed herself, Su Xiaoxiao knew that a fierce battle was inevitable.

She looked at the shadow on the ground, picked up the pig trotter she had just bought, and kicked it back!

Fast, accurate, and ruthless! It hit him in the face!

The burly man fell back heavily. His mind was buzzing, and his eyes were filled with stars!

However, this move could only take down one person. The other person grabbed Su Xiaoxiao's sleeve.

Su Xiaoxiao kicked him without a word!

Not everyone could withstand a kick from a 200-pound fatty.

One of the other party's ribs broke on the spot, and he fell to the ground and spat out a mouthful of blood.

These two were easy to deal with, but Zhang Dao was not.

He was a true martial artist and had entered the government office to kill before. With Su Xiaoxiao's current fat body, she was no match for him.

The first move threw Su Xiaoxiao off the ox cart.

Fortunately, her fat was thick and she was not injured.

But-

Zhang Dao's second move came. Su Xiaoxiao could have dodged it, but Old Li was behind her. If this slash hit Old Li, he would die.

Su Xiaoxiao gritted her teeth and raised her chubby arm to block it.

It was blocked, but the back of her hand was also scratched.

“This is forcing me to use my ultimate move…”

Su Xiaoxiao gritted her teeth and shouted behind Zhang Dao, “Dad! You're here!”

Zhang Dao turned around.

Realizing that he had been tricked, he turned around to grab Su Xiaoxiao, but Su Xiaoxiao was nowhere to be seen.

Where was the fatty?

Thud! Thud! Thud!

Heavy footsteps, one step at a time, made the ground seem to tremble.

Zhang Dao's heart skipped a beat.

He looked up.

“I'm-here!”

The power to uproot the mountains… was unparalleled!

Su Xiaoxiao stepped onto the ox cart and jumped down towards Zhang Dao!

Zhang Dao was knocked out. He lay on the ground like a toad, his tongue hanging out and his eyes rolling back…

Su Xiaoxiao was exhausted. She lay on the ground and panted.

This body was too fat, too fat, too fat…

If it were her previous life… she would not have been so breathless…

She wanted to lose weight! She had to starve to death!

… .

On the way back, Su Xiaoxiao was cold like a demon.

Old Li thought that she had fought with someone and was in a bad mood.

He drove the ox cart to the Su family and waited for Su Xiaoxiao to take everything away.

Unexpectedly, Su Xiaoxiao only took her things and coldly closed the door!

He was stunned on the spot!

Didn't Fat Lass Su fight with those people to snatch these things?

He sat back on the ox cart in a daze.

He seemed to have stepped on something. He looked down and saw that it was his lost money bag.

That's not right. He had looked for it just now. It was clearly not on the ox cart-

He looked at the closed door of the Su family's house with a complicated expression.

… .

After Su Xiaoxiao returned home, she went straight to her room.

She was hurt.

In her previous life, she had been injured by knives and guns. It was not a big deal.

However, she had neglected that this body's pain receptors were abnormally developed. Compared to her previous life, she was at least ten times more afraid of pain!

Now that there was no one else around, she finally couldn't hold it in anymore.

She looked at the back of her injured hand and cried out, “It hurts!”

Chapter 8

When Old Li returned home, it was almost dark.

Madam Qian sat on the threshold and fed her grandson, glancing out anxiously from time to time.

“Why isn't your grandfather back yet?” Madam Qian muttered.

He went out early in the morning. Could it be that the old hen couldn't be sold?

“Grandpa!”

The three-year-old grandson pointed at the tired Old Li in the night.

Madam Qian quickly brought her grandson into the house and let her daughter-in-law feed him. She then walked over to pick up Old Li.

“Why are you back so late? Did you sell the chicken?” She looked at the car.

“Sold,” Old Li said.

“What about the things for the folks?” she asked again.

“I bought them all and sent them over,” Old Li replied.

Qian looked at him strangely. “I think something's wrong with you. What's wrong?”

Thinking of what had happened along the way, Old Li had mixed feelings. “I… came back with Fat Lass today.”

Madam Qian gasped. “That wretched girl extorted money from you!”

“No, she didn't blackmail me.”

“She sat in your cart for nothing again!”

“No.” Old Li opened the money bag. He had counted. Not only was there not a single copper coin missing but there were also ten more. “She paid for the ride.”

Madam Qian's jaw dropped.

Old Li continued, “She even chased away the hooligans in town.”

Madam Qian was speechless.

… .

At the Su family, tears streamed down Su Xiaoxiao's face. It wasn't that she wanted to cry. It was this body's instinct.

Not only did this body feel different from ordinary people, but even her tear ducts were exceptionally developed. She could not control them at all.

In her previous life in the army, her results were outstanding in all aspects. Her stamina, shooting, and combat skills were almost second to none.

She had always felt that it was because she had worked hard enough. From the looks of it, it was true that she had worked hard, but her strong physique and genes were innate.

After this body was done crying, Su Xiaoxiao took out an iodophor to disinfect herself before going to the kitchen.

Su Cheng and Su Ergou started a fire in the kitchen, boiled hot water, and washed the three children's hair.

The door was closed tightly, so they didn't hear anything from outside the kitchen.

When Su Xiaoxiao pushed the door open, Su Cheng was educating the three children with a serious expression.

“From today onwards, your name is Su Dahu! Your name is Su Erhu! Your name is Su Xiaohu!”

The three children sat naked in the wooden basin with wet hair. They looked up at Su Cheng with confused expressions.

Su Ergou squatted behind the stove and added firewood to the stove while roasting a few sweet potatoes.

The wind blew against the light. Su Cheng turned around and said in surprise, “Daya! You're back!”

He was so happy to see his daughter!

The three children also looked at Su Xiaoxiao. They were silly and cute.

“Sister!” Su Ergou shouted.

Su Xiaoxiao glanced at the messy kitchen. After not seeing it for a day, it had become a large-scale car accident scene again…

They were not allowed to enter the kitchen in the future!

“Dad, Ergou.”

Family members had to greet each other. She closed the door and the house warmed up again. Su Cheng hooked a small stool over with his foot and sat down for his daughter.

Su Xiaoxiao sat down. “Dad, were you naming them just now?”

Su Cheng said, “That's right. Su Dahu, Su Erhu, Su Xiaohu. How is it? The names Dad gave are so pleasant!”

Thinking of her own name and Su Ergou's, Su Xiaoxiao basically did not have high expectations of Su Cheng's naming standards.

Su Xiaoxiao asked, “Don't you think it sounds like they're from the same generation as me and Ergou?”

Su Cheng said, “Really?”

Forget it. He could call them whatever he wanted. It was just a few nicknames.

Thinking of something, Su Xiaoxiao asked, “How do you know who's the eldest, who's the second, and who's the third?”

Su Cheng let down their hair and pointed at their heads. He said confidently, “One whirl, two whirls, three whirls. Eldest, Middle, Third!”

Su Xiaoxiao was speechless.

Father Su continued to bathe the three children. Su Xiaoxiao went to Wei Ting's house to change his dressing.

The wound was alright. She had sutured it beautifully, but he still had a low fever and his body was very weak.

After dealing with two serious injuries, Su Xiaoxiao applied anti-inflammatory and painkillers ointment to the rest of his injuries.

“Uh, I'm really tired.”

Su Xiaoxiao sat down on the edge of the bed.

After working all morning, buying things, and fighting all the way, she was exhausted.

Wei Ting gasped.

Su Xiaoxiao hummed. “You're awake?”

Wei Ting slowly opened his eyes, a trace of vigilance flashing across them.

Su Xiaoxiao snorted. “Who are you guarding against? You're like a fish on a chopping board. Killing you is easier than killing an ant!”

Wei Ting clenched his fists and closed his eyes.

Su Xiaoxiao looked at the bowls and chopsticks on the stool. Originally, there were two steamed sweet potato cakes she had brought in before she left. There was only half left.

“You were awake during the day?” she asked.

How was Wei Ting not awake?

He had even interacted deeply with her family.

He already knew that the three children were here. Yesterday, he asked where the children were, but this woman actually lied and said that she didn't know!

He had worried for nothing!

“Does my father know?” Su Xiaoxiao asked.

Wei Ting looked at her as if she was a fool.

Su Xiaoxiao coughed. “Looks like he was here. Did he say anything to you?”

Wei Ting's eyes were cold. “He said that someone attacked me. He was the one who chased the other party away and saved me and my children. He asked me to give myself to him and be your Su family's live-in son-in-law.”

“Cough, cough, cough!” Su Xiaoxiao choked. “Then what are you thinking?”

Wei Ting mocked, “Do you think I don't know that the person who attacked me from behind was your father?”

He didn't see it, but he heard the other party's voice before he fainted.

“You want me to marry a thief and acknowledge him as my father-in-law? Dream on!”

Ah, this…

It would be very awkward.

Su Xiaoxiao scratched her head angrily.

Wei Ting snorted coldly.

Suddenly, Su Xiaoxiao reached out to him.

“What are you trying to do?” he asked warily.

Su Xiaoxiao raised her chin and looked down at him.

“Although my father kidnapped you, I also treated you. We're even! Since you don't intend to give yourself to me, we have to settle the score between us!”

“Food fees, accommodation fees, medical fees, care fees, 20 taels a day! 500 taels a month! 100 taels for child support fees, 300 taels for three children! It's settled now, no credit!”

Creak…

The door was pushed open.

Su Cheng walked in. “Daya, the children are done bathing… Eh? Is my son-in-law awake?”

Su Xiaoxiao was thinking, What son-in-law? You've already exposed yourself, okay?

Wei Ting looked at Su Cheng and smiled. “Father, I'm hungry.”

Su Xiaoxiao was dumbfounded!

Chapter 9

Wei Ting, where is your integrity?

He had swoern never to marry a thief and never to acknowledge a thief as his father-in-law!

Why did he change his mind in the blink of an eye?!

Su Xiaoxiao was speechless.

Su Cheng accepted this greeting and replied calmly, “You're hungry? Alright, I'll go cook.”

“No…” Su Xiaoxiao wanted to stop him, but Su Cheng had already turned around and left.

After Su Cheng went to the kitchen, the smile on Wei Ting's face instantly disappeared, and he returned to his cold self.

Su Xiaoxiao's chubby face darkened. “You did it on purpose!”

Wei Ting glanced at her coldly. “What else? Do you really think I'll be willing to be your husband?”

Su Xiaoxiao gritted her teeth. “If you don't want to do it, I'm not willing to take it! I'll send you to the government office immediately! Let's see how you can be unreasonable!”

Wei Ting said calmly, “The entire village knows that we're married. Aren't you afraid that I'll implicate you if I enter the government office?”

What was going on? Was he even told about the marriage?

Su Xiaoxiao said angrily, “What's there to be afraid of? Go out and ask around! Have I, Su Daya ever been afraid?”

Wei Ting raised his eyes arrogantly and elegantly. “Is that so? Who was the crybaby who was hiding in the house and crying?”

Su Xiaoxiao was speechless.

Su Xiaoxiao said seriously, “It wasn't me! I didn't!”

Wei Ting sneered. “Yes, it wasn't you. It was a puppy crying.”

Su Xiaoxiao wanted to bite him to death!

Wait, this guy heard her cry. Did that mean he had woken up long ago?

Just now, she had changed his dressing and measured his temperature. Was he pretending to be dead the entire time?!

Very good. Two can play the game.

Su Xiaoxiao, who was like an angry little pufferfish a second ago, suddenly revealed an obedient and charming smile. “Do you think I'm coveting your beauty?”

Wei Ting sneered. “Aren't you?”

“Hehe.” Su Xiaoxiao went to her room to get a small bronze mirror and placed it in front of him.

Wei Ting did not understand what she meant, but he still subconsciously looked into the bronze mirror.

Then, his body trembled!

Looking at a certain someone's expression, Su Xiaoxiao felt happy.

Leaving the bill behind… Uh, no, medicine. She left the house in high spirits and couldn't help but pull up her pants!

… .

Su Xiaoxiao went to the kitchen and said that she would cook dinner.

She really couldn't stand watching Daddy Su and Su Ergou cause trouble in the kitchen that she had painstakingly cleaned up.

The two of them had no objections to this. In fact, they agreed very much.

Originally, they couldn't bear to let the only girl cook, but ever since they tasted Su Xiaoxiao's cooking, it was difficult for them to swallow Su Cheng's food.

Especially since Su Xiaoxiao wasn't around at noon, the family was forced to eat Su Cheng's cooking again…

That feeling was simply…

Su Xiaoxiao made a pot of braised pork, a bowl of tofu intestines, a large bowl of steamed eggs, three small bowls of steamed eggs, and a plate of cabbage. She mixed some radish shreds.

Looking at the table full of dishes, Su Ergou was dumbfounded. “Is our family going to celebrate the new year?”

No, they didn't eat such good food during the new year.

The three children couldn't wait any longer and drooled around the table.

They ate in the kitchen.

Firstly, it was warm. Secondly, the kitchen had a short table. The three children could reach it from their stools.

Wei Ting's diet needed to be light. Su Xiaoxiao cooked some cabbage and lean meat porridge for him alone and asked Ergou to scoop a bowl of steamed eggs for him.

When Ergou returned, the family officially started eating.

However, when Su Cheng and Su Ergou saw the big bowl of tofu intestines, they did not dare to eat anymore.

They had eaten it at a relative's house once, and it tasted terrible.

“Why aren't you eating?” Su Xiaoxiao looked at the two of them strangely.

The three children could not eat it because it was too spicy, but these two had preferences for food with strong flavors.

Su Ergou braced himself and picked up a piece. He hesitated for a moment before putting it into Su Cheng's bowl. “Dad, eat first!”

The corners of Su Cheng's mouth twitched. He picked up the fat intestine and placed it in Su Ergou's bowl. “Eat it!”

“Sister, eat!” Su Ergou gave it to Su Xiaoxiao.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “I'm on a diet, so I can't eat this.”

After a pause, she looked at Su Cheng in surprise. “Dad, don't tell me you don't dare to eat it?”

Su Cheng stammered, “How, how, how?”

Su Xiaoxiao sobbed. “Then you don't dote on me anymore.”

Su Cheng trembled!

“Haha!”

Su Xiaoxiao was amused by Su Cheng's reaction and swayed back and forth.

Su Ergou looked at his sister in confusion. Was his sister seriously ill? Had her brain been damaged?

Su Xiaoxiao continued to eat in satisfaction.

This family was really fun.

In her previous life, she grew up in a very serious family. Her mother was a businesswoman, and her father was a research professor. One of them had endless meetings, and the other had endless research.

The house was always cold and empty. Only the secretary and nanny could be seen.

She had also thought that she was a serious person.

In the end, Su Cheng and Su Ergou naturally ate the dish and could not stop. In the end, neither of them gave in to the other.

Su Xiaoxiao mercilessly took it away.

“Aren't you trying to lose weight?”

The two of them looked at her resentfully.

Su Xiaoxiao spread her hands. “I've been on diet for a day. I'm rewarding myself. I'll continue tomorrow.”

At the same time, she finished the remaining half of the plate of braised pork.

Su Cheng and Su Ergou were speechless.

… .

After dinner, Su Xiaoxiao cleaned up the remaining meat and pig offal, smeared it with salt, and hung it on the shelf in the backyard.

Su Xiaoxiao didn't hide where she got the money to buy so many things and told her family that she asked He Tongsheng to return the betrothal gift.

“There are fifteen taels left. He wrote an IOU and will return it within three days.”

As Su Ergou helped her dry the meat, he snorted. “At least he knows his place! If he dares to go back on his word, I will go to his house and beat him to death!”

Su Xiaoxiao washed her hands and carried out the clothes she had bought from town.

She didn't know much about sewing, so she only bought ready-made clothes. She had to let them try the clothes on. If they weren't suitable, she would bring them to town tomorrow to change them.

“Dad, are you there?” Su Xiaoxiao knocked on the door.

“Yes,” Su Cheng said.

Su Xiaoxiao pushed the door open and entered. Su Cheng was sitting on a stool, lighting a dim oil lamp and clumsily mending one of Su Ergou's cotton clothes.

The Host's mother passed away early, and Su Cheng was both a father and a mother. The clothes at home were mended by him.

But he did an awful job and it always made the villagers laugh.

“What's wrong, Da Ya?” Su Cheng asked.

Su Xiaoxiao looked at the needle marks on Su Cheng's rough fingers and said, “Er Gou has grown up. This cotton shirt is too small. There's no need to mend it. I bought him a new one.”

“Ah… okay.” Su Cheng was surprised.

This was the first time Su Daya bought clothes for Su Ergou.

In the past, when she went on the streets, she would buy food or rouge and makeup for herself.

Su Cheng thought that she was here to talk about this. He put Ergou's clothes aside and picked up his old cotton shirt.

His cotton shirt was the worst.

“You don't have to mend yours either,” Su Xiaoxiao said.

Su Cheng was stunned.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “It's not very expensive. When I have money in the future, I'll buy you something better.”

Su Cheng looked at the brand new cotton shirt his daughter handed over and his eyes turned red.

Chapter 10

Su Xiaoxiao muttered, “It's just a piece of clothing. There's no need to…”

Su Cheng felt a lump in his throat. “This is the first time you made clothes for me…”

“I bought it…”

“Same thing.”

But Su Xiaoxiao felt it was very different.

She looked at Father Su, not knowing what to do.

The tyrant of Xinghua Village actually had such a reaction when he received the cotton-padded clothes from his daughter. She couldn't accept it!

Old Su Cheng was relieved, and tears flickered in his eyes. “You're different after getting married. My daughter has grown up. Don't worry, I'll treat my son-in-law well.”

No, what did this have to do with Wei Ting?

She was the one who bought the clothes!

That guy didn't even move a finger!

Why was he being nice to him? He should be beating him up!

“Daya, it's getting late. Go rest,” Su Cheng said to Su Xiaoxiao.

“Oh,” Su Xiaoxiao said. “Then you should sleep early too.”

Su Cheng nodded.

Su Xiaoxiao turned and walked out.

The moment the door closed, a cry came from inside!

-It was Father Su holding the cotton clothes his daughter gave him in the house… The boor was crying!

Su Xiaoxiao's chubby body trembled!

Did the villagers know that the tyrant was capable of tears?

Su Xiaoxiao went to the backyard to look for Su Ergou.

Su Ergou took a cold shower in the backyard. This was what Su Cheng taught him. He said that taking a cold shower in winter could improve one's physique.

Su Ergou had not taken a hot bath since he was eight years old. His body was indeed good! Su Xiaoxiao seriously suspected that Su Cheng was just too lazy to boil water for Su Ergou.

“Ergou.”

“Sister?”

Su Ergou had just poured a basin of cold water on his head when he realized that Su Xiaoxiao had come over.

The wind was cold and he was only wearing a pair of wet pants.

Su Xiaoxiao felt cold.

“I bought you a cotton shirt. I'll bring it to your room later. Try it after you take a shower. If it doesn't fit, tell me. I'll change it in town.”

“Alright!”

Su Ergou agreed readily and continued to take a shower.

Seeing that Su Xiaoxiao was still staring at him, he couldn't help but ask, “Sister, is there anything else?”

Su Xiaoxiao sized him up cautiously. “Are you going to cry?”

“Huh?” Su Ergou was stunned and shook his head. “No, why should I cry?”

Su Xiaoxiao waved her hand. “Then it's fine. Hurry up and wash. Don't catch a cold.”

It seemed that Su Ergou was the only one in the family who was not prone to crying. It was good to be simple-minded.

Su Xiaoxiao went to Su Ergou's house.

The three children were sitting cross-legged on the bed playing with wooden blocks.

It was something the Host and Su Ergou had played when they were young. Today, Su Cheng spent a lot of effort digging it out of the box.

The children did not cry or make a fuss. They could play by themselves without anyone watching. It was much easier to take care of them than Niudan next door.

Su Xiaoxiao walked over with the clothes.

The three little ones looked up at her with cute eyes, a little shy.

Su Xiaoxiao's heart was about to overflow.

Although they had an unreliable father, the three children were really cute!

They were cuter than the dolls she had bought in her previous life!

Su Xiaoxiao placed a stack of brand new clothes at the head of the bed and gave the three of them three sets.

She had dressed them in the morning and roughly knew their sizes. The cotton clothes she bought all fit them well.

“Stand up and let me see,” she said.

The three of them stood up obediently and jumped around the bed.

The pants were just the right size. They wouldn't fall off and were not so long that they would trip on them.

“Alright, that's all for today. It's time to sleep.”

Su Xiaoxiao put away the toys on the bed and spread the blanket. She undressed the three of them and stuffed them into the blanket.

She did not know if the three children were afraid of the dark. She had been afraid when she was young.

She left an oil lamp on the table and checked their blankets.

Just as she was about to turn around and leave, someone among the three of them suddenly called her mother.

Su Xiaoxiao staggered and almost fell!

“Who called?”

She looked at the three little ones under the blanket in shock.

The three of them looked at her innocently.

She corrected him sternly. “You can't just call anyone that, understand? I'm not your mother.”

The three little ones continued to look at her.

She sighed. Forget it. They were still young. She heard that children say anything that came to their minds when they first learned to speak.

In her previous life, many children would call unfamiliar women mothers.

They should be the same.

Su Xiaoxiao went to Wei Ting's room last.

She was not so polite to Wei Ting and threw the clothes at him.

Wei Ting was about to fall asleep when he woke up again.

“You…”

“Hmph!”

Su Xiaoxiao turned her head proudly and left without looking back.

… .

The next day, Su Xiaoxiao woke up early as usual.

She peeled the dressing off the back of her hand.

This dressing was close to the texture of her skin. It could not be seen if one did not look closely. Therefore, no one at home noticed that she was injured.

“The new medicine in the research building is indeed useful. It healed such a deep wound in one night.”

“From the looks of it, it will recover in two days without any scars.”

This was a pleasant surprise.

She changed her dressing and went to the kitchen to make breakfast.

To her surprise, other than Wei Ting, everyone else got up and changed into the new cotton clothes that Su Xiaoxiao had bought.

It was not strange for children to wake up early, but didn't Father Su and Su Ergou not open their eyes until late in the morning?

She had spent a lot of effort scooping up Su Ergou yesterday!

“The weather is good today. Let's go out for a walk!”

Su Cheng said.

“Father is right!”

Su Ergou said.

The three little ones nodded.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “You haven't had breakfast.”

“We'll eat when I get back!”

With that, Su Cheng left with Su Ergou and the three children.

The first villager they met was Auntie Zhou, who went to dig for radishes.

Auntie Zhou grabbed the basket tightly and shouted, “I don't have any money!”

Su Cheng walked forward arrogantly and patted his sleeve. “New clothes.”

Auntie Zhou was confused.

Su Cheng said, “My daughter bought it.”

Su Ergou said, “My sister bought it.”

The three little ones, ” Mom bought it.”

Auntie Zhou could not respond to any of them.

… .

In a medical center in town, the physician treated Zhang Dao's last injury.

Su Xiaoxiao had done a lot of damage. Three of his ribs were broken!

If not for his body that practiced martial arts all year round, he would probably be a cripple now!

“Big Brother!”

The other two lackeys also fainted and limped.

A fierce glint flashed across Zhang Dao's eyes. “Su Cheng, you raised a good daughter! Just wait! I won't let you off!”

Chapter 11

Su Xiaoxiao went to Wei Ting's room to check on him as usual. The low fever had subsided, but the hematoma in his liver had not. He was still a weak patient.

“Take your medicine yourself.”

Su Xiaoxiao filled a bowl with two anti-inflammatory pills and three capsules to remove the hematoma.

She knew he was awake.

“What medicine are you giving me?” He had never seen such a strange medicine.

Su Xiaoxiao chuckled. “Oh, not only do you want to be our family's son-in-law, but you also want to ask about my family's ancestral secret?”

“Who wants to ask?” Wei Ting turned away coldly.

Father Su and Su Ergou didn't know that Su Xiaoxiao had treated Wei Ting's injuries. They thought that Wei Ting had relied on the bottle of medicine he carried with him.

Wei Ting thought that the father and son knew that Su Xiaoxiao was treating him.

Although he was puzzled as to why a countryside woman was proficient in the Qihuang technique, he was not close enough to chat with this family.

Hence, Su Xiaoxiao's cover was not blown.

However, Su Xiaoxiao was not afraid even if she was exposed. With Father Su and Su Ergou's blind love for her, it was not difficult to fool them.

On the other hand, Wei Ting was more troublesome.

When she found an opportunity, she would definitely cheat some secrets out of him.

… .

There was meat at home. For breakfast today, Su Xiaoxiao made a few catties of steamed dumplings, made a pot of vegetable pork ribs porridge, and roasted a few sweet potatoes.

The little beans seemed to like them when Su Ergou roasted some for them last night.

Since the entire family was up, Su Xiaoxiao planned to have breakfast with them when they returned.

But after waiting for a long time, there was no one.

Had they strolled out of the village?

“Forget it. I'll pick up some firewood first.”

Su Xiaoxiao brought a bowl of vegetable pork ribs porridge to Wei Ting and brought the hemp rope to the forest at the back of the mountain.

Coincidentally, she bumped into her neighbor, Little Wu.

Little Wu was also here to pick up firewood, but she accidentally fell. Not only did the firewood scatter all over the ground, but her feet were also stuck.

It was a big tree that had been cut off in the forest. It was not easy for an adult man to move it, let alone a skinny Little Wu.

Little Wu was anxious and in pain. However, she was timid and did not dare to shout for help.

Su Xiaoxiao didn't know how long she had been stuck, but she looked pitiful.

Su Xiaoxiao walked over. Seeing her, Little Wu trembled like a frightened rabbit.

Su Xiaoxiao didn't say anything and just went to one end of the tree trunk. She used all her strength to lift it.

This was the power of being a Fatty! Had she been a 90-pound beauty, she would definitely not be able to carry this big tree!

Little Wu quickly moved her foot out.

Bang!

The tree slammed back to the ground.

“I'm exhausted!”

She had not eaten breakfast!

Su Xiaoxiao panted as she came to Little Wu and squatted down to check her right foot.

“It's just a bruise. It's nothing serious. Can you walk?”

Little Wu nodded timidly and bent down to pick up the firewood on the ground.

Seeing her limp, Su Xiaoxiao sighed and helped her tie the firewood and carry it on her shoulder.

“Keep up!”

Little Wu looked at the little bully who had snatched her firewood in a daze and did not dare to disobey her.

Su Xiaoxiao placed the firewood at her door and left.

On the other side, Su Ergou returned with the three children in high spirits!

“Sister! We're back!”

Su Xiaoxiao had just reached home. “Eh? Why are there only the four of you? Where's Dad?”

Su Ergou saw the firewood by her feet and frowned. “Sister, you went to pick up firewood? I can do this kind of work! Don't go up the mountain!”

“I want to lose weight,” Su Xiaoxiao said. “You haven't told me where Dad went.”

Su Ergou said, “Oh, Dad was called to town.”

… .

At the medical hall.

“Brother Su, this way please.”

A young man brought Su Cheng to the tea room on the second floor. “Brother Dao is waiting for you inside.”

Su Cheng looked around and muttered, “Why are you drinking tea in such a place?”

The young man smiled but said nothing.

Su Cheng entered the house.

The house was dark, and a strong smell of liniment and golden sore medicine assaulted his nose.

He frowned involuntarily.

Zhang Dao sat in a mahogany chair. The dim light appropriately blocked the weakness and paleness on his face.

He smiled and said, “Brother Su is really a busy man. You haven't visited me in so many years.”

Su Cheng laughed and strode over. Just as he was about to sit down on the chair beside Zhang Dao, a thug behind Zhang Dao pulled the chair back.

Su Cheng narrowed his eyes.

Zhang Dao said sternly, “There are no rules! Hurry up and show Brother Su a seat!”

“Yes!” The thug pushed the chair back.

It was a show of strength. An old trick.

Su Cheng sat down calmly and asked Zhang Dao with a smile, “Brother, why are you looking for me today?”

Zhang Dao said with a faint smile, “Brother Su, you're being distant. Can't we catch up?”

“We're here to catch up…”

Before Su Cheng could finish, Zhang Dao interrupted him. “Fifth Master sent someone to look for me a few days ago and asked if I was willing to follow him to the prefecture city.”

Fifth Master was a ruthless person; even the county magistrate did not dare to provoke him.

Su Cheng changed his cursing attitude and said with a smile, “You have Fifth Master's care. Your future is limitless.”

“This person was sent by Fifth Master.” Zhang Dao pointed at the thug behind him.

“No wonder he doesn't look ordinary.” Su Cheng smiled. “Brother, are you here to say goodbye to me? Let's go, I'll treat you to a few drinks at Spring Breeze Restaurant!”

Zhang Dao suddenly grinned. “There's no need to drink. Brother Su, since you're so sincere, why don't you give me a small gift?”

Su Cheng said readily, “What do you want? As long as I have the ability, I'll definitely get it for you!”

Zhang Dao smiled and said, “Yes, it's at your house.”

Su Cheng frowned. “At my house?”

Zhang Dao smiled maliciously. “Your precious daughter, Su Daya.”

… .

Su Xiaoxiao cleaned up the dishes and left through the back door of the kitchen.

Behind the kitchen next door, Little Wu was squatting on the ground and plucking corn. This was made for the Niudan of the second branch. This morning, he suddenly said that he wanted to eat green peppers and stir-fried corn.

“Why are you always doing work?”

Su Xiaoxiao's voice suddenly sounded, and Little Wu shivered again.

Sigh, how timid. It was no fun at all.

Even though Su Xiaoxiao had shown her kindness to Little Wu in the past two encounters, Little Wu was still very afraid of her.

Su Xiaoxiao picked up a corn cob and patted it on her palm. “Madam Wu, do me a favor.”

Little Wu took a deep breath. It was finally here. Fatty Su was going to extort her…

… .

At the medical hall.

After Zhang Dao finished speaking, Su Cheng's expression turned cold at a visible speed.

Chapter 12

“Zhang Dao, what do you mean?”

Su Cheng had also changed the way he addressed him.

Zhang Dao's smile disappeared. “What do you mean? Didn't your precious daughter tell you when she went back? Is it so easy to get away with offending me? If I don't get back at you today, I, Zhang Dao, won't be able to survive in the underworld in the future!”

Su Cheng frowned at him. “Did Da Ya hurt you?”

He had long seen that Zhang Dao was injured, but he did not really care about Zhang Dao. If Zhang Dao did not mention it, he would not bother to ask.

Zhang Dao snorted. “Stop pretending! If you don't want to hand her over, fine.”

He took out a dagger and stabbed it into the table between them.

“Leave a hand!”

Su Cheng's gaze landed on the cold dagger. “If I leave it, will you let her off?”

Zhang Dao narrowed his eyes and smiled. “That depends on my mood. If I'm in a good mood, I might not argue with that fatty.”

Su Cheng slowly grabbed the dagger on the table.

Zhang Dao couldn't help but laugh mockingly. “Brother Su, Brother Su, is it worth it to give up your hand for a fat and stupid daughter who can't be married off? Back then, when we traveled everywhere together, who didn't call Brother Su a good bodyguard?”

Su Cheng replied in a low and dangerous voice, “Who are you calling a fatty?”

Zhang Dao was stunned.

In the next second, the dagger in Su Cheng's hand approached his face.

He never dreamed that Su Cheng would suddenly go berserk and attack him!

One had to know that more than ten of his brothers were guarding the backyard. It was impossible for Su Cheng not to see them on the way here.

Wasn't he afraid of hurting himself? He wouldn't be able to walk out unscathed.

He was injured and could not avoid this move. However, there was a powerful fighter behind him who quickly grabbed Su Cheng's right wrist.

However, Su Cheng's move was a feint, or rather, it was deliberately fed to the two of them.

His left hand had already picked up the white porcelain vase at the side and smashed it fiercely at Zhang Dao's head!

Zhang Dao was cut open on the spot!

The people behind couldn't stop him even if they wanted to!

Su Cheng had been farming in the countryside for many years, making people forget what a reckless character he was back then.

The thug came forward and tried to punch Su Cheng to the ground. Unexpectedly, Su Cheng kicked him in the chest and he fell heavily to the ground!

Su Cheng grabbed Zhang Dao's collar and punched him!

“Fat bastard, huh?”

“Fat and stupid, huh?”

“Have you forgotten how I got you back from the bandits back then?”

How could he have forgotten that they had encountered mountain bandits? The bodyguards had been robbed, and he had been captured.

It was Su Cheng who had risked his life to bring him and the escort out!

The price was naturally heavy. Su Cheng's right hand was almost crippled. He could only return to his hometown to farm.

The hand that Su Cheng used to teach him a lesson was the crippled right hand.

Although he was much weaker, it was enough to teach Zhang Dao, who was already seriously injured, a lesson.

Su Cheng pressed the knife to the ground and rubbed it. His snow-like fist landed.

As long as he didn't die, he would beat him to death!

“Zhang Dao, just because I haven't provoked you, do you really think I'm afraid of you!”

“How dare you bully my daughter! You're tired of living!”

Zhang Dao was beaten up until he doubted his life.

The thugs guarding the backyard had naturally heard the commotion. However, they thought that it was Su Cheng who was beaten up.

The more they listened, the more they felt that something was wrong. Finally, they rushed in.

At this moment, Zhang Dao was already bruised and on the verge of death.

Everyone was shocked and pounced at Su Cheng.

In a one-on-one battle or a one-on-two or three battle, Su Cheng had no problem. However, it was still a little difficult for Su Cheng to fight more than ten men at the same time.

Just as the situation in the house was turning upside down, the door was suddenly kicked open violently by a small fat leg!

Su Xiaoxiao and Su Ergou rushed in with wooden sticks.

“Let go of my father!”

Su Ergou jumped in!

As the saying went, the soft was afraid of the hard, the hard was afraid of the rough, and the rough was afraid of the reckless.

These hooligans were naturally unreasonable, and the Su family did not care about their lives to protect one another.

After a round of fighting, more than ten hooligans were actually defeated. No one dared to rush over.

The three tyrants of the Su family panted heavily.

Su Cheng threw the stick in his hand at Zhang Dao's feet and said while panting, “Zhang Dao, remember this. If I can beat you up once, I can beat you up a second time! If you dare to have any ideas about my daughter again, I'll chop you up!”

The three of them left the medical center.

This battle was a sorry sight. Su Cheng's right hand was numb and his leg was sprained. Su Ergou took a punch to the face and bled a little.

The only one who wasn't injured was Su Xiaoxiao.

It was not that she was the best at fighting. She was so fat that she was actually not very agile. It was the two men at home who took all the firepower for her.

“Why are you guys here?” Su Cheng asked.

“Ergou said that you were called to town by Zhang Dao's subordinates, so I guessed that something had happened,” Su Xiaoxiao said.

Su Cheng said, “Don't come again. I can handle it.”

Su Xiaoxiao paused. “Aren't you going to ask me how I offended Zhang Dao?”

Su Cheng said without thinking, “What's there to ask? No matter what, you won't provoke him. It's obvious that he bullied you. Did you suffer?”

This answer, which was completely different from what she had imagined, stunned Su Xiaoxiao.

“No,” she said.

The small injury on the back of her hand was not worth mentioning. Her crying was a problem with her physique, and her injury was not serious.

“How many times have I told you not to cause trouble outside!”

“Be good and be a good child. Don't let your parents worry.”

“It takes two hands to clap. Why aren't they targeting anyone but you? Figure your own problems first.”

When Su Xiaoxiao was young, she heard most of these heartfelt words. Even if it wasn't her fault, they would never listen to her explanation.

With just a sentence, “Be strict with yourself and treat others kindly”, she easily brushed aside the ostracization and bullying she had suffered.

Su Xiaoxiao looked at Father Su. “Don't you blame me for not telling you that I injured Zhang Dao when I came back? If I had told you, you wouldn't have gone to see him unguarded today.”

Su Cheng waved his hand indifferently. “It's good that you didn't suffer a loss. If I don't go to see him, he will come looking for me one day. It's the same! Besides, you're sixteen years old, not sixty! Why do you have to think so much?”

Twenty-six, she added in her heart.

Actually, she could have done it more thoroughly. She didn't know why she didn't tell him in advance.

It was a delicate state of mind. She could not describe it.

As she was thinking, Su Cheng said again, “By the way, the two of you are here. Who's watching the children?”

His son-in-law was sick and could not take care of the three little fellows. Of course, he could not count on Wei Ting. That fellow could not even get out of bed.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “I found someone.”

Chapter 13

It was not far from the town to the village, about six to seven miles. Su Cheng sprained his ankle. Even though he said that they could walk, Su Xiaoxiao still went to hire an ox cart.

It was from the neighboring village. Old Li was not around today.

The family of three sat on the ox cart. Su Xiaoxiao suddenly asked, “Who is Fifth Master?”

When they were fighting with that group of people just now, she heard someone shout, “Su, aren't you afraid of offending Fifth Master by doing this? Brother Dao is Fifth Master's man!”

“That's right. Who's Fifth Master?” Su Ergou was also curious.

Su Cheng said nonchalantly, “I'm from the underworld and have some small influence in the city. I've interacted with them in my early years.”

“Sounds impressive,” Su Xiaoxiao said.

Su Cheng said, “Don't listen to Zhang Dao's nonsense. He's not in Fifth Master's league!”

“What if he did know Fifth Master?” Su Ergou asked.

Su Cheng snorted. “So be it! We'll cross that bridge when we come to it! He's been beaten up like that. No matter what, he'll have to lie in bed and recuperate for a few months! By the time he complains, it'll be too late!”

Su Ergou said weakly, “What if it's not too late?”

Su Cheng slapped his forehead. “Whose side are you on!”

Su Ergou felt wronged.

The ox cart driver sent the Su family of three to the vicinity of Xinghua Village. Before leaving, Su Xiaoxiao instructed him, “Please tell He Tongsheng's family that I don't care if he comes or his family. In short, once the three days are up, there will be blood if there's no money!”

The man drove away, shaking with fear.

Su Ergou gave Su Xiaoxiao a thumbs up. His sister had an aura!

“However, Sister, he doesn't seem to be from He Tongsheng's village. He's from Willow Village in the east.”

Su Xiaoxiao was speechless.

… .

When the three of them entered the village, the three little children were like three little chicks waiting to be fed. They flapped their little arms back and looked at the village road.

Seeing them, the three little ones ran over.

“Dahu, Xiaohu, Erhu!”

Su Ergou's eyes lit up. He took the three little ones-one on his shoulder and two in his arms.

The three little ones with dark faces were quiet.

Little Wu timidly walked up to Su Xiaoxiao and whispered, “They… they came here to wait…”

The wind at the village entrance was strong and cold.

She was afraid that Fatty Su would blame her for not taking good care of the children.

“Thank you for today.” Xiaoxiao didn't think that Little Wu had done anything wrong. “They didn't cause trouble for you, right?”

Little Wu hesitated for a moment. “They didn't disturb me.”

It was just that they made half the children in the village cry…

Su Xiaoxiao smiled. “I knew it. They're very obedient.”

Little Wu braced herself. “… Yes, your sons are very easy to take care of.”

Su Xiaoxiao was about to explain that they weren't her sons but decided to let it rest. When Wei Ting recovered, he would leave with the children.

“Take these snacks back.”

Su Xiaoxiao bought a few boxes of snacks from town. Of course, they weren't from Jin Ji.

Little Wu didn't want it.

“Take it!”

Su Xiaoxiao said fiercely.

Little Wu accepted it with trepidation. “If… if there's nothing else. I'll leave first.”

Su Xiaoxiao looked at her fleeing back and thought, Look at how scared she is.

“She's also pitiful.” Su Cheng sighed. It was rare that he wasn't stingy.

Little Wu married Liu Shan's eldest son, Liu Ping. Liu Ping's mother had a difficult labor when she gave birth to him. Later on, Liu Shan married a second wife, Big Wu.

Although they had the same surname, Little Wu was not related to the Big Wu.

Big Wu gave birth to a son and a daughter. The daughter got married, and the son was Niu Dan's father.

Big Wu only doted on her biological son. In addition, Little Wu only had two daughters, so Liu Shan was even more biased towards Big Wu.

Liu Ping and Little Wu worked hard in town, while the other daughter worked hard at home.

… .

After arriving home, Su Xiaoxiao sent medicine to Wei Ting as usual.

Perhaps it was because he was shocked by his own appearance, but Wei Ting was much more introverted than two days ago and didn't say a word to Su Xiaoxiao.

She was gleeful to see him in such a depressive state!

Su Xiaoxiao smiled and went to the kitchen to make dinner-fried eggs, scallion fried noodles, and a bowl of cabbage and pork belly.

Hmm… Would they finish it before she was able to cure the meat?

After an intense fight during the day, the three of them had exhausted a lot of stamina and had a huge appetite.

The three little ones were like three squirrels that ate a lot too.

She specially cooked an extra pot of rice, thinking that if she couldn't finish it, she would make clay pot rice tomorrow morning.

Not long after, the pot was empty.

At night, Su Xiaoxiao carried a basin of hot water to Su Cheng.

Su Cheng was lying on the bed, hissing.

It had been a long time since he had fought with someone like this. He felt as though his bones were scattered, especially his right hand and right ankle. One was numb, and the other was in excruciating pain.

“Father, I'm coming in.”

Su Cheng ended his gasp in a second and sat up straight.

“You're not asleep yet?” he asked seriously.

“I'll sleep later.” She carried the hot water to the bed.

“What?” Father Su sniffed, smelling of Chinese medicine. “Did you buy medicine?”

Of course, she did not buy any medicine. These were the Chinese medicine that she had packed into the first aid kit from the base's pharmacy last time. They had the effect of easing pain, containing inflammation, and promoting blood circulation.

Wei Ting had no use for them for the time being.

Su Xiaoxiao said without changing her expression, “I went to town yesterday and bought some… medicine. Put your feet in and soak them.”

Su Cheng waved his hand. “Just give them to my son-in-law. I don't need it.”

“Why are you always thinking about him?” Su Xiaoxiao said fiercely. “Just put your feet in!”

Old Father Su obediently placed his feet in the wooden basin.

He had only suffered a sprain in his ankle. It would heal in a few days. The problem was his right hand.

In the Host's memory, Father Su's right hand had an old injury. When it was cold and damp, it would flare up. At best, it would hurt, and at worst, it would be numb.

A traveling physician had come to the village and prescribed a few doses of medicine for Father Su. After taking it, he had not had any relapse for a few years.

Today, he was injured again after fighting Zhang Dao.

If he could not be cured this time, Father Su's right hand would be completely crippled.

Seeing his daughter holding his right hand in a daze, Su Cheng cleared his throat and retracted his hand. “It's fine, it doesn't hurt!”

Su Xiaoxiao said seriously, “I'll think of a way to treat your hand. Before that, don't use too much strength!”

Su Cheng thought that his daughter was going to town to ask a doctor to treat his hand. He said disapprovingly, “It's fine if I say so. Why would you spend so much money?”

He knew very well that his hand could not be treated. Even the traveling physician with brilliant medical skills had only stopped the pain in his right hand, but he had not recovered his original strength.

He would never get better.

… .

After leaving Grandpa Su's house, Su Xiaoxiao went to Su Ergou's house again.

Su Ergou went to the toilet. The three children were standing by the table, standing on their tiptoes and looking at something.

“Do you want some snacks?” Su Xiaoxiao walked over and asked.

The three little ones raised their round heads and blinked as they nodded.

“If you want to eat, say it.” Su Xiaoxiao picked up a box of osmanthus cake and squatted down to look at the three of them.

The three of them remained silent.

Su Xiaoxiao: “You can have it if you say so.”

Still, no one said anything.

Su Xiaoxiao thought for a moment before taking the osmanthus cake away and bringing a few candied hawthorns from her room.

The three of them were instantly stunned.

Indeed, candied hawthorn was more charming than osmanthus cake.

Su Xiaoxiao coaxed, “Hawthorn… candy.”

She wondered if it was too long and difficult and simplified it. “Candy.”

The three of them said, “Mother.”

Su Xiaoxiao was dumbfounded.

Chapter 14

“It's candy.”

Su Xiaoxiao corrected them.

“Mother.”

The three little ones were stubborn.

Su Xiaoxiao's head hurt.

Last time, it was just a little kid calling out. This time, all three of them shouted.

Although it was a good thing that a child could speak, she could not get excited at all.

This was really a huge and beautiful misunderstanding. She was not their mother!

Facing the three little fellows who could not be corrected, Su Xiaoxiao sighed helplessly.

“Okay, eat.” She handed them the candied hawthorn. “You can only eat one, or you won't be able to sleep later. You can eat the rest tomorrow, understand?”

With that, she rubbed their heads and turned to go to the kitchen.

The three children grabbed the candied hawthorns and looked at her, their small figures looking a little lonely.

Su Xiaoxiao waited until the water in the kitchen boiled, but Su Ergou had yet to come out of the toilet.

“Ergou.”

“Aye!”

He didn't fall into the latrine pit. That was fine.

Su Xiaoxiao carried a bucket of hot water back to her room. She had fought today and was dirty. She needed a hot bath.

She was about to take off her clothes when a short cough came from Wei Ting's room.

She was shocked and couldn't continue with the bath anymore. She immediately went next door.

Wei Ting choked on the water he was drinking. When he saw someone coming over, he hurriedly placed the cup back on the stool, turned around, and threw a cold back view at Su Xiaoxiao.

Su Xiaoxiao looked at this awkward man, then at the half-spilled teacup on the stool, and sneered coldly.

“I advise you not to move around, especially when you get up or turn over. Otherwise, it will cause internal bleeding again. Even a Zenith Heaven Immortal can't save you!”

Wei Ting ignored her.

Since he was fine, Su Xiaoxiao didn't intend to stay any longer.

However, the moment she turned around, she suddenly thought of something and stopped in her tracks to ask him, “How old are your sons?”

Wei Ting still had his back to her. “Two and a half.”

Su Xiaoxiao nodded to herself. It was just as she had guessed.

She said again, “Which of them is the eldest, the second, and the third?”

Wei Ting thought for a moment and said, “The one with one hair whirl is the eldest. The two with two is the second and the one with three with the third.”

Did Father Su really guess correctly?

Su Xiaoxiao was shocked.

“Then… what are they called?”

“Why are you asking about this?” Wei Ting sounded a little wary.

Su Xiaoxiao curled her lips. “Forget it if you don't want to say it! From now on, I'll call them Dahu, Erhu, and Xiaohu !”

Wei Ting frowned and hesitated.

Su Xiaoxiao looked at him and coughed lightly. “Well, it's fine for you to recuperate outside, but aren't you worried that the children won't go back after so long?”

“What?” Wei Ting did not understand what she meant.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Their mother!”

Wei Ting was silent.

After a while, he whispered, “She passed away.”

Su Xiaoxiao was speechless.

“I'm sorry. I didn't know your wife…”

“She's not my wife.”

“What?”

What the hell?

She gave birth to three sons for you, but in the end, you didn't even give her a status?!

Scumbag!

Su Xiaoxiao left angrily!

“She is…” Wei Ting was halfway through when he sensed that something was wrong. He turned around and saw that Su Xiaoxiao had already gone out.

He frowned.

Su Xiaoxiao went to Su Ergou's house again.

The three of them placed themselves on the bed and fell asleep. They didn't cover themselves with the blanket and held the candied fruits Su Xiaoxiao had given them without eating a single one.

They clearly wanted to eat them, so why didn't they?

Was it because they were sad?

Had her words hurt their young hearts?

Su Xiaoxiao pulled the blanket over them.

“Sister!”

Su Xiaoxiao shuddered and turned around to glare at him. “You scared me! Keep your voice down! They're asleep!”

“Oh!” Su Ergou scratched his head and walked into the house. He whispered, “Sister, why did you call me just now?”

“Sit down.” Su Xiaoxiao pointed at the stool beside her.

Su Ergou sat down obediently.

Su Xiaoxiao checked his injuries and went to Wei Ting's room to get a bottle of ointment. She carefully applied it to Su Ergou's wounds.

He had been punched in the face. His face was bruised and there was a scratch on his shoulder.

“Just tell me if it hurts,” she said.

Su Ergou smiled foolishly. “Hehe, it doesn't hurt! Sister!”

“Huh?” Su Xiaoxiao continued to apply medicine for him.

Su Ergou said thoughtfully, “I think… you've treated Dad and me better than before you broke your head.”

Su Xiaoxiao asked calmly, “Is that so?”

Su Ergou nodded seriously. “Yes! You didn't buy me clothes or apply medicine for me in the past… Dad is right. A woman is different when she has a husband! Sister, I will treat Brother-in-law well in the future!”

Why was Wei Ting involved again?

Not only did that guy freeload at home, but he also kept taking credit for her work!

“I'll really lose out if I don't sleep with him!”

“Sister, what did you say?” Su Ergou did not hear her clearly.

Su Xiaoxiao crossed her arms and said proudly, “With his pig face, I can easily enter post-coital dysphoria.”

Su Ergou: My sister is acting up again… I can't understand a word she said.

… .

At night, Su Xiaoxiao took a hot bath and lay under the blanket.

She didn't fall asleep that quickly. Some things started to go through her mind.

The first was the situation at home.

She had spent about five taels of silver last time. All that was left was the fifteen taels of silver that He Tongsheng owed.

It didn't sound bad, but the entire family could eat so much… except for Wei Ting, that patient. Without any income, it wouldn't be long before they would eat up all that they could afford.

“Looks like I have to think of a way to earn money.”

Forget about running away from poverty.

Another very important thing was Father Su's hand injury. This kind of old injury was the most difficult to treat.

The base pharmacy was one of the largest in the military. There were many newly developed special medicine inside. Unfortunately, she had only packed some emergency medicine to treat Wei Ting last time.

If only she could go in again. Su Xiaoxiao hugged the first aid kit and closed her eyes.

Chapter 15

However, that night, she didn't dream of the base's pharmacy and slept until dawn.

Su Xiaoxiao was a little disappointed.

“Is there only one benefit for transmigrators?”

If she had known, she would have taken more medicine.

Since she could not count on the pharmacy, he could only go to the medical center in town to take a look.

She dressed and left the house.

It was probably because she was too tired from the fight yesterday that she woke up later than two days ago. This was relative to her schedule. The rest of the family was still dreaming in bed.

She went to the backyard to wash up and took a look at herself through her reflection on the water in the basin.

She had been here for a few days, but she had not looked at her face carefully.

She was a little fat and chubby, but her facial features were not bad. His eyebrows were thick and well-shaped. Her almond-shaped eyes were round and big, and her nose was narrow and tall. His lips were red and full. When she smiled, there were two small dimples.

Based on her experience in her previous life, if she could slim down, she would definitely be a little beauty!

Su Xiaoxiao went to the kitchen to steam a basket of white steamed buns. She also made a pot of sweet potato porridge and cooked ten eggs.

She controlled her diet a little and did not make it too strict. For example, she still ate some braised pork instead of abstaining from it totally.

Losing weight was a gradual thing. One could not starve blindly or suddenly eat too cleanly. Otherwise, it would definitely lead to gluttony.

She had a large base now. If she moved around casually and got busy, her weight would slowly drop.

After breakfast, Su Xiaoxiao went to wake Su Ergou up.

As soon as she entered the house, she saw the three little balls twisting around under the blanket.

Were they awake?

Thinking of what happened last night, Su Xiaoxiao felt a little guilty. A child without a mother was already pitiful enough, but their father was so unreliable.

Wasn't it just calling her mother?

Why take it so seriously?

If they wanted to call her that, so be it.

She wasn't missing anything.

After mentally preparing herself, Su Xiaoxiao gently pulled open the blankets of the three little fellows.

The three of them looked at her in a daze.

Su Xiaoxiao burst out laughing.

The three of them hurriedly raised their hands and covered their faces shyly.

Su Xiaoxiao laughed out loud. She didn't wake Su Ergou up. Su Ergou was sleeping soundly.

She had originally planned to wake Su Ergou up, but now she changed her mind.

“I'm going to town. Do you guys want to join me?”

… .

Half an hour later, Su Xiaoxiao left with the three bubbly children.

Su Xiaoxiao could walk to town on foot, but the three children couldn't. Fortunately, Old Li's ox cart was at the village entrance. From the looks of it, he was about to set off.

“It's better to be here early than late.”

She walked over with the children.

There were a few villagers who were going to town on the ox cart. When they saw that she was taking the ox cart, they all dispersed. Only Little Wu remained.

The family had run out of salt and needles at home, so her mother-in-law asked her to go to town to buy some.

She was still afraid of Fatty Su.

“Aren't you leaving?”

Su Xiaoxiao, who was already on the ox cart, asked.

Little Wu hesitated for a moment before bracing herself and getting into the ox cart.

Su Xiaoxiao sat on the side with the three children, and Little Wu sat opposite her. Together with her was a pile of rice and grains that Old Li was helping the villagers to sell.

Little Wu wanted to say something but hesitated.

She wanted to say that the snacks from yesterday were delicious. This was the first time her two daughters had eaten snacks from town.

Just as the ox cart left the village entrance, Wang Laizi got on.

He saw Fatty Su and was stunned.

“Is it Fat Lass Su? Are you bringing your sons to town?”

He greeted her with a grin.

The Su family of three were bullies in the village. This Wang Laizi was actually not a good person. He had done many sneaky things and was especially lecherous.

Su Xiaoxiao couldn't be bothered with him.

He did not dare to provoke Fatty Su. He glanced at the timid Little Wu and smiled before sitting down beside her.

“Sister, are you going to town?” He leaned against Little Wu and said.

Little Wu moved aside uncomfortably.

Wang Laizi continued to sit beside her. “What are you buying? I'll help you get it later.”

His leg was already touching Little Wu's.

However, no matter how Little Wu moved, he shamelessly stuck close to her and pretended to casually reach behind her.

Little Wu's body stiffened.

Wang Laizi smiled evilly.

In the next second, Su Xiaoxiao stood up and kicked him off the ox cart!

Old Li did not know what had happened and quickly stopped the ox cart.

“What's wrong?” he asked.

Wang Laizi lost a front tooth. He spat out a mouthful of blood and said fiercely, “Fatty Su! Why did you kick me!”

Little Wu looked at Su Xiaoxiao with red eyes.

Su Xiaoxiao stepped onto a stool and said arrogantly, “If I don't like you, so be it. Why? Are you unhappy?”

“You!”

Wang Laizi glanced at Little Wu. Was Fatty Su standing up for Little Wu?

Impossible, Fat Su was not so kind!

But he didn't provoke her!

Wang Laizi couldn't figure it out no matter what, but he couldn't really expect Fatty Su to give him an explanation. He cursed and left.

Old Li didn't say anything and continued to drive the ox cart.

Su Xiaoxiao didn't ask how Little Wu was, nor did she comfort her. It was as if she hadn't seen anything she shouldn't have seen just now. She really just didn't like Wang Laizi.

The ox cart stopped at the entrance of the market.

Su Xiaoxiao carried the three children off the ox cart.

Little Wu also got out of the car.

She mustered her courage and whispered to Su Xiaoxiao, “Thank you.”

… .

Su Xiaoxiao had gone to the medical center yesterday and remembered the way.

She led the three little ones along the bustling street, attracting the attention of many passersby.

Triplets were rare to begin with, let alone such adorable ones.

Since they went to the village to show off yesterday, the three of them thought that they were in town to do the same.

They puffed out their chests and walked with small haughty steps!

The passers-by were about to die of laughter!

“Why is everyone laughing?” Su Xiaoxiao muttered and was about to turn to look at the three children. At this moment, a carriage rushed over.

“Get out of the way! Get out of the way!” the coachman cried out in panic.

He tried to stop the carriage, but the horse completely lost control and could not be pulled.

“The three of you… ”

Su Xiaoxiao wanted to tell the three children to hurry to the side, but when she turned around, she saw that the three little ones were already hiding behind a bunker… Uh, no, behind the burly man.

Their sense of crisis was quite strong.

The streets were in chaos. Su Xiaoxiao had just grabbed a little girl who had fallen at her feet when a peddler's cart rushed over and almost ran over the little girl.

The runaway carriage was about to charge into the crowd.

In the blink of an eye, a young man in brocade clothes broke out of the window on the second floor and charged toward the horse without hesitation!

Chapter 16

He successfully knocked down the horse alone; the man and horse fell heavily onto the street!

Almost at the same time, Su Xiaoxiao took the opportunity to kick the cart in front of her!

The cart flew out and hit the carriage that was thrown out by inertia.

The cart stopped in front of the old couple who couldn't run away in time. The old couple looked at the carriage close at hand and were so frightened that their legs went limp.

The horse struggled a few times after being knocked down. The young man took out a handkerchief and covered its mouth and nose, knocking it out.

The young man seemed to be injured and looked very pained.

Su Xiaoxiao walked over and asked him, “Are you okay?”

The young man covered his left arm. “No…”

Before he could finish, a woman's scream came from the shop behind him. “Young Master! Young Master, what's wrong? Don't scare me!”

This shop was the most expensive snack shop in town-Jin Ji.

The one in trouble was a five-year-old boy in royal blue brocade clothes.

Just now, he was eating sugar-fried chestnuts when he bumped into a young man's horse. The horse fell under his windowsill.

The huge commotion made him tremble and choke on the chestnut.

His face quickly turned green and he gradually began to suffocate.

The servant girl was frightened, but she was not a doctor. Other than screaming, there was nothing she could do.

Su Xiaoxiao grabbed the young man's dislocated arm and repositioned it. Then, without caring about the young man's surprise, she quickly rushed into Jin Ji.

“Why are you crying? Hurry up and find a doctor! The medical center is right ahead! Quickly carry the child over!”

It was the shopkeeper of Jin Ji.

The maidservant was already flustered. How could she carry a five-year-old child?

A kind-hearted young man reached out and carried the little boy from her arms.

Su Xiaoxiao's eyes turned cold as she blocked his path. “Give me the child.”

The young man looked strangely at the fat village girl who had suddenly appeared. “Who are you?”

Su Xiaoxiao looked at the little boy who was gradually losing consciousness and said seriously, “Give me the child. He's dying!”

This child was obviously lacking oxygen!

Generally speaking, if one was deprived of oxygen for more than a minute, one's breathing would stop. If one was deprived of oxygen for more than three minutes, cerebral edema would occur. If one was deprived of oxygen for more than six minutes, one would cause irreversible damage to the organs of the body and and the person might even suffocate!

The young man frowned and said, “Little girl, don't cause trouble! I have to send this child to the medical center!”

A customer couldn't stand it anymore. “Where did this village girl come from? Why are you causing trouble?”

The two old men shook their heads.

“Sigh, that's how the Zhang family died. There's no way to save them!”

“That's right. There's nothing we can do even if we go to the medical center.”

Su Xiaoxiao didn't question the doctors' medical skills and said to the young man, “The medical center is too far away. You won't be able to make it in time! I can treat him!”

What kind of joke was this? A little fat village girl actually said that she could treat such a dangerous choking disease. No one believed Su Xiaoxiao, and no one dared to give her the child.

The shopkeeper jumped out at this moment. “Where did this stinky woman come from? Get out of the way! Do you want to kill this child?”

He did not care if this illness could be treated. In short, nothing could happen in his shop!

The logic didn't make sense. Time was tight, so Su Xiaoxiao could only use force.

“Excuse me!”

She kicked the young man, and the man let go in pain. Su Xiaoxiao caught the child with both arms.

“She's snatching the child!” the shopkeeper shouted.

When everyone saw that a fat village girl had come to cause trouble at the critical moment of life and death, they were all furious.

“Stupid girl! If you don't let go of that child, we won't be polite to you!” A burly man pointed at Su Xiaoxiao's nose and said.

“Miss! This child is about to die. Don't cause trouble!”

“What do you want? Let's talk nicely. Don't hold a dying child hostage!”

“Let her treat him!”

As everyone was talking, a cold young man's voice suddenly appeared at the door.

Everyone was stunned. The crowd made way almost spontaneously.

It was a beautiful young man dressed in luxurious clothes. He had jade-like eyebrows and a tall figure. He was elegant and had a priceless jadeite pendant hanging from his waist.

His shoulder blades and clothes were a little dirty, but his noble and otherworldly aura was not inferior.

The lobby fell silent.

He came to Su Xiaoxiao and said word by word, “You treat him.”

Su Xiaoxiao nodded. “Give me a chair.”

The young man lashed out with his whip and swept a chair over.

He was actually a martial artist!

Soon, someone recognized him as the young man who had collided with the horse on the street just now. This time, everyone did not dare to act rashly.

Su Xiaoxiao quickly sat down and let the child lie on her left arm. She placed her palm under his chin.

Then, she began to pat the spot behind his back.

Once, twice, three times!

On the fifth slap, the child suddenly spat out a chestnut!

The child caught his breath and burst into tears!

The onlookers were so shocked that they were speechless.

The child's cry woke the servant girl up. She scrambled over and hugged the child tightly. “Wuwu… Young Master, you scared me to death…”

The guests and passersby surrounded him.

An auntie said, “Stop crying. Give the child some water.”

A businessman at the side handed him tea. “Don't let the child eat chestnuts again.”

An old man stroked his beard. “It's all thanks to that girl just now… Hurry up and thank her… Otherwise, your young master would not have been saved. This is the first time I've lived to this age… Eh? Where's that girl?”

Su Xiaoxiao left Jin Ji.

She was in a hurry to save other people just now. She wondered how the three children were doing.

She crossed the street. The place where the three little ones had been standing was empty.

Her eyebrows jumped!

“Dahu! Erhu! Xiaohu!”

Just as she was feeling anxious, the three little ones ran out of a jewelry shop.

“Madam, your child…” the shop assistant reminded her.

The woman who was choosing jewelry turned around. “It's not my child. Don't talk nonsense.”

The clerk was shocked.

Just now, the three little fellows had swaggered in behind this lady. He had thought that they were together.

Su Xiaoxiao felt relieved when she saw the three little fellows.

The three little ones pounced on her and hugged her.

She squatted down and patted the heads of the three of them one by one. She said in relief, “You know to wait in the shop. How smart.”

It was the end of the year, and there were many people on the streets. If one was not careful, one might be targeted. It was much safer to be in the shops, especially high-end shops that sold expensive jewelry.

Being praised, the three little ones blushed shyly.

Chapter 17

“Are you hungry?” Su Xiaoxiao asked.

The three little fellows were too excited to go out this morning and did not eat properly at home. They only wanted to come out and play.

The three of them nodded.

Su Xiaoxiao remembered that there was a stall selling dumplings and glutinous rice balls nearby. The couple had been doing this for many years and it had always tasted good. Moreover, it was in the same direction as the clinic.

Su Xiaoxiao brought the three little ones to the stall.

After breakfast, there were no more customers. The boss was not around, and the lady boss was standing behind the stall wrapping dumplings. There was also a seven-year-old girl helping to pluck vegetables.

She was the first to see the guest. She tugged at the landlady's clothes. “Mom, there's a guest.”

The lady boss recognized Su Xiaoxiao. After all, there weren't many customers who were so fat. She could remember her for a long time.

“Miss, would you have two bowls of rice wine glutinous rice balls and a bowl of spicy soup dumplings today?” she asked pleasantly.

The main dish was huge. She could eat three bowls at a time, and both bowls were sweet. It was no wonder she was fat.

In order to lose weight, Su Xiaoxiao decided to resist the urge to eat. She asked the three little ones, “Do you want to eat dumplings or glutinous rice balls?”

The three of them said nothing.

The lady boss looked down and realized that there were three little balls beside the fat girl.

The little balls were adorable. Their faces were red like three lucky dolls who had walked out of a New Year painting.

The lady boss had never seen such beautiful children and could not help but ask, “Miss, they are…”

Su Xiaoxiao looked at the little girl who was leaning against the lady boss and then at the three envious children. She said seriously, “My sons.”

The three little ones were stunned.

The lady boss was also stunned.

Su Xiaoxiao was too young to be the mother of three children. However, in this chaotic world, there were girls who had married long ago.

The lady boss smiled and said, “Three sons. How lucky.”

Su Xiaoxiao smiled.

Su Xiaoxiao asked the three of them again, “Dumplings, glutinous rice balls, which one do you want to eat?”

The three little ones only said, “Mom.”

She knew this would happen.

Su Xiaoxiao coughed and replied vaguely, “Yes, what do you want to eat?”

The three little eyes were bright.

Su Xiaoxiao turned her face away and muttered softly, “Don't look at me like that. It's my first time being a mother… I might not be able to do it well…”

“Eat.”

One of the little beans pointed at the dumplings.

Su Xiaoxiao was surprised. Did he say the second word so quickly?

There was one spiral on his forehead. It was Dahu.

The one with a white headband was Erhu, and the one with a blue headband was Xiaohu.

Er Hu and Xiao Hu asked for glutinous rice balls.

The four of them sat down around the small table and the steaming dumplings and glutinous rice balls were served.

“Mother, eat,” the three of them said.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “You guys eat. I'm not hungry. Be careful.”

The three of them faced the bowl and took small breaths.

Su Xiaoxiao suddenly looked at the three of them and said, “Do you… know your names?”

She wanted to know their real names.

The three of them tilted their heads and thought for a moment before nodding.

Su Xiaoxiao's eyes lit up. “Then what are your names?”

The three of them held their small chests.

“Dahu.”

“Erhu.”

“Xiaohu.”

Su Xiaoxiao was speechless.

—

After the three of them were full, Su Xiaoxiao brought them to the medical center in town.

The fight yesterday occurred in the back alley, away from the staff of the medical center, so no one knew her.

In order to stabilize Old Father Su's injuries, acupuncture and herbs were indispensable.

“I want a set of silver needles. Also.” She paused and listed a dozen herbs in one go.

The shopkeeper calculated the amount for her. It was five taels.

After the first purchase, she only had two taels of silver left.

“Can it be cheaper?” Su Xiaoxiao asked.

The shopkeeper smiled faintly. “How much do you want to give?”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “I only have two taels of silver in my hand. If you're willing… I can exchange my medicine for it to fill the difference.”

The shopkeeper laughed angrily.

How arrogant of a village girl!

She wanted to barter her medicine in exchange.

What medicine? Was it a rotten herb from the countryside?

What did she think of Rongen Hall?

“Rongen Hall is the largest medical center in town. What good medicine do you have? Why would we want something from a village girl? What can you offer!”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “My medicine is very good.”

The shopkeeper mocked, “I think you're here to cheat me of my medicine. I've seen many people like you! Hurry up and leave! Otherwise, I'll report you to the authorities!”

In the room on the second floor, the young man in embroidered clothes sat on a chair. A doctor from the medical center was checking his left arm.

“The dislocated area is well connected. There won't be any repercussions.”

The young man in embroidered clothes raised his hand, and the doctor tactfully left.

The guard standing by the window suddenly said, “Young Master, look! It's that girl from just now!”

The young man turned to look. “It's her.”

It was just that there were three children beside her.

As the guard gestured, he asked strangely, “Young Master, did she really… reattach your arm just now?”

When Young Master hit the horse, he was in the crowd opposite and did not see it clearly.

The young man in the brocade robe grunted.

The guard said, “Look at her clothes. She's clearly a village girl. Why does she know this? Could it be that she knows medicine too? Let's invite her to treat Young Master!”

The young man was silent.

She should know medical skills to reconnect dislocated arms and save a choking child.

But… healing his cousin.

“Cousin's identity is special. It's best not to approach someone of unknown origin. It's better to wait for Doctor Dong of the medical center.”

Doctor Dong had been practicing medicine for many years and was the best candidate to treat his cousin.

—

After Su Xiaoxiao came out of the medical center, she planned to take a look elsewhere. After taking a few steps, she was stopped by a man in his fifties.

The other party's clothes were no different from ordinary people's, except that there was a medicinal gourd hanging on his waist.

He was a physician.

The physician smiled and cupped his hands at Su Xiaoxiao, stating his intentions.

Su Xiaoxiao nodded. “So you were in Jin Ji back then… Are you asking me how I saved that child?”

The doctor smiled awkwardly. “I hope you can enlighten me.”

Su Xiaoxiao waved her hand. “Hey, you're too polite. What guidance? If you want to know, I'll tell you.”

“Really?” The doctor could not believe that the other party had agreed so easily. This was different from what he had expected!

“You're a physician, right?” Su Xiaoxiao took out a small porcelain bottle from the basket and smiled. “I have a bottle of golden sore medicine here. Do you want it? I can sell it to you at a cheap price.”

The doctor looked at the small porcelain bottle she took out and asked resentfully, “If I don't buy your medicine, will you teach me how to save someone from choking?”

“Yes,” Su Xiaoxiao said without thinking. “But aren't you embarrassed to freeload?”

The doctor was speechless.

The doctor's lips twitched. He asked with a fake smile, “How much for a bottle?”

Su Xiaoxiao extended her hand. “Since we're in the same industry, I'll sell it to you for five taels of silver!”

The doctor was shocked. “Five taels?! Why don't you rob!”

Su Xiaoxiao looked at the sky and shrugged helplessly. “Then let the other clinics freeload.”

The doctor was speechless again.

Chapter 18

Fifteen minutes later, Su Xiaoxiao had three taels of silver in her hand.

This was not a bargain. He wanted to bargain, but a certain black-hearted fatty did not allow it.

He only had three taels of silver on him.

Su Xiaoxiao said that she could go home with him to get it. He whispered, “My mother will beat me up if she finds out.”

Su Xiaoxiao was speechless.

In the end, after repeated negotiations, he used a brand new set of silver needles and some medicinal herbs to offset the difference.

However, he didn't have the two herbs that Su Xiaoxiao needed for the time being. He asked Su Xiaoxiao to go to his family's medicine shop three days later to collect the goods.

“Rongen Hall actually wants five taels of silver for something that can be settled with two taels of silver! How despicable!”

The doctor was speechless.

It was a case of the pot calling the kettle black.

—

When she left this morning, Su Xiaoxiao was prepared to use all the money she had to buy medicine for Daddy Su. Unexpectedly, not only did she not spend a single cent, but she also earned three taels.

In this way, she would have five taels of silver in her hand.

Su Xiaoxiao went to the market with money and bought red beans, green beans, brown sugar, and glutinous rice noodles, each weighing 10 catties. White sesame and black sesame each weighed 1 catty.

Her family was too capable of eating. The meat she bought last time was obviously not enough, so she went to the meat stall at the market again and asked for five kilograms of pork ribs, five kilograms of pork belly, and five kilograms of pork tenderloin.

“Give me a few more pounds of fat.”

Fat meat could be refined into lard. In addition, the finished lard was crispy and delicious.

“Miss, can you finish so much meat?”

The butcher asked curiously.

“There are many people at home, so we can finish it,” Su Xiaoxiao said. She wouldn't eat all of it immediately, such as the pork ribs.

Villagers did not eat meat at every meal. It was already rare for them to eat meat twice a month. This fat girl looked ordinary, but she was actually quite generous.

That was true. If she didn't eat so much meat, she wouldn't have grown so fat.

He was not discriminating against fat people. On the contrary, he felt that being fat was a blessing.

The young butcher didn't forget to skewer the pork ribs with the lettuce leaf and hand it to Su Xiaoxiao.

“20 copper coins for a catty of pork ribs, 13 copper coins for a catty of meat, and 8 copper coins for a catty of fat. It's a total of 420 copper coins. I'll charge you 400 copper coins. In addition, I'll give you some pig skin.”

Although it was called pig skin, it was actually meat. It was 500 grams.

“There are also two kidneys. Do you want them, Miss? If you do, I'll give them to you.”

“I'd like that.”

She took it back to nourish Wei Ting's spine.

He was running a small business and didn't have much profit. The butcher had already taken it very cheaply. In return, Su Xiaoxiao took out a bowl of braised food from the basket and placed it on the stall.

The butcher turned around and saw an extra bowl of braised intestines. He hurriedly said, “Miss! Your intestines!”

Su Xiaoxiao shook her head coolly. “No, they're yours.”

The butcher was speechless.

—

Su Xiaoxiao continued to stroll around the market with the little beans.

“Eh? There are actually dried plum vegetables.”

It was a stall selling dried goods. Almost all the other dried goods were sold out, except for a basket of dried plums.

“How much is this?” Su Xiaoxiao asked.

The old woman who was buying groceries glanced at her impatiently and said, “Fifty copper coins, all for you!”

“Okay.” Su Xiaoxiao bought it readily.

The old woman was speechless.

She regretted not bidding.

Su Xiaoxiao went to buy some spices.

She went to the entrance of the market and realized that Old Li was still there. The things on the ox cart had been sold out, and Little Wu was sitting on it.

She smiled and walked over. “Grandpa Li, why aren't you back yet? Don't tell me you specially waited for me here?”

Old Li choked and said seriously, “I-I just want to take two more people. I can't make a wasted trip.”

Little Wu said nothing.

Just now, three people from the neighboring village wanted to take the ox cart, but Old Li rejected them.

Su Xiaoxiao carried the child onto the ox cart. “I'll give you the fare for four people!”

She was worth two. The three little fellows were one, and the goods she bought were one.

Old Li responded vaguely. When he got out of the car, he only accepted her fare for one.

—

When she got home, Su Xiaoxiao realized that everyone had gone out.

She entered Wei Ting's room and asked, “Where are my father and brother?”

Wei Ting turned his back to her and said calmly, “They just went out.”

“Did they say where they were going to?”

“No.”

“Oh.” Su Xiaoxiao turned around and went to the kitchen to cook.

Wei Ting stopped her. “Where's my medicine? Why is there only one bottle left? Where did the other bottle go?”

“Sold,” said Su Xiaoxiao.

Wei Ting frowned. “Who… who asked you to sell my medicine?”

That was a very precious medicine! It could not be bought with money!

Su Xiaoxiao chuckled. “Please understand your situation. You eat, drink, and stay with me. You almost used up my first-aid kit. What's wrong with selling a bottle of golden sore medicine?”

Wei Ting held it in coldly.

Su Xiaoxiao said thoughtfully, “Speaking of which, other than two bottles of medicine, you don't have anything valuable. Don't you bring money with you?”

Wei Ting ignored her.

Su Xiaoxiao narrowed her eyes. “You must have money, right? Where did you hide it?”

Wei Ting said coldly, “Didn't you search me long ago? If I hid the money, wouldn't you have found it?”

Su Xiaoxiao stroked her chin. “Then it's hidden somewhere else?”

Wei Ting still had his back facing her. “Stop trying to trick me!”

Hehe, how vigilant.

Su Xiaoxiao was not angry. She looked at his broad shoulders and powerful back and said domineeringly, “I've spent a sum of money for your food, clothes, and medicine. If you can't repay it in the future, you'll pay with your body!”

Wei Ting was speechless.

Even at night, Father Su and Second Dog Su didn't return. Su Xiaoxiao could only cook dinner for the three little ones and Wei Ting.

After dinner, she bathed the three little ones.

When she returned to her room after pouring water, the three little fellows were also there, each holding a small pillow.

Su Xiaoxiao probed, “What… are you doing?”

“Sleeping with Mother,” Dahu said.

Erhu pointed next door. “Niudan sleeps with his mother.”

Xiaohu hugged Su Xiaoxiao's leg and raised his cute head. He said in a childish voice, “Xiaohu, sleep with mother.”

Make requests, list real cases, act cute…

This was an organized and divided operation!

Su Xiaoxiao hugged them solemnly.

The three little eyes rolled around.

“Dark,” Dahu said, pointing at Su Ergou's room.

“Scared,” Erhu continued.

“Yes!” Xiaohu nodded seriously.

Su Xiaoxiao was speechless.

“Just this once,” she said sternly. “Tomorrow, you guys should go back to the west room and sleep.”

The three little ones nodded obediently.

Su Xiaoxiao spread the blanket, took the clothes off the three little ones, and carried them to bed.

“Why aren't you sleeping?” She looked at the three children lying under the blanket.

The three little ones blinked their big black eyes.

They wanted their goodnight kiss.

Chapter 19

“Don't push your luck!”

Su Xiaoxiao pulled the blanket over the three children with a dark expression.

The kiss plan failed.

The three little ones closed their eyes regretfully and obediently stopped talking.

The children played happily and slept quickly. Not long after, the sound of their even snores came from the bed.

Su Xiaoxiao rested her chin on her hand and looked at the three children who were sleeping soundly. She didn't even know what it was like to have her mother accompany her, but she inexplicably became someone else's temporary mother.

Some people wanted to hold umbrellas for others after having been in the rain. However, there were also people who inherited their parents' cold genes.

… .

It was late at night when the father and son dragged their tired bodies back.

When they arrived home, Old Father Su rushed into his room without eating dinner.

Su Xiaoxiao scooped a bowl of soup and rice and handed it to Su Ergou. “Where did you go today? What happened to Dad?”

Usually, the first thing Su Cheng did when he returned home was to look for his daughter. Tonight was clearly abnormal.

Su Ergou took the soup and took a sip of rice. He whispered, “Uncle Cheng is gone. He disappeared five days ago. Father only received the news today and rushed over to bury him.”

“Who's Uncle Cheng?” Su Xiaoxiao asked.

Su Ergou sighed. “One of Dad's brothers used to follow Father on a few missions. His legs were not good, so he stopped working. All these years, he had been working as a short-term worker in town and had a difficult life. When Father was in his prime, many people came to curry favor with Father. When Father quit, only Uncle Cheng was still willing to interact with Father. Don't you remember? When you were young, you fell seriously ill and didn't have the money to go to the medical center. It was Uncle Cheng who sold the old cow in his family and gave us the money to treat your illness.”

That was when Su Daya was seven years old. Su Ergou was five years old. She was too sick and had a fever. Therefore, only Su Ergou remembered the despair of his family and the new lease of life brought by Uncle Cheng.

Zhang Dao was an ingrate while Uncle Cheng was a loyal person.

No wonder Old Father Su was so sad.

Su Ergou was actually very sad. “In the past few years, the Cheng family has borrowed a lot of money to treat Uncle Cheng's illness. After Uncle Cheng left, he left behind an orphan, a widow, and an old mother. Not to mention paying the debt, they can't even live anymore.”

—

There was no lamp in the room, so Su Cheng sat on the chair in a daze.

Suddenly, there was a knock on the door. “Dad, it's me. Are you asleep? I'm coming in.”

With that, Su Xiaoxiao brought a bowl of soup and rice to Su Cheng.

She did not light the lamp. The dim candlelight shone in from the central room. It was not too bright, and Su Cheng's disappointment was hidden.

Su Cheng did not want to be too embarrassed in front of his daughter. He said in a normal tone, “I'm not hungry.”

Su Xiaoxiao handed him a note. “Take it.”

Su Cheng asked, “What?”

“IOU,” said Su Xiaoxiao.

Su Cheng did not understand.

Su Xiaoxiao pulled his hand and placed the IOU in his palm. “He Tongsheng still owes 15 taels. When he returns the money, take it to the Cheng family.”

Su Cheng suddenly raised his head and looked at his fat daughter in shock.

Su Xiaoxiao let go of his hand and sat down on the stool beside him. “If that's not enough, I still have four taels.”

“Enough, enough…” Su Cheng choked.

“Our family of three can do things. We will definitely earn money.” Su Xiaoxiao didn't know how to comfort people. She didn't know if saying this would make Father Su feel better.

“I won't buy those rouge and cosmetics in the future, nor will I eat Jin Ji's snacks. The expenses won't be big. I remember that our family has land. When Wei Ting recovers, let him farm. Our family will have food and can save a sum.”

“Look, it's quite enough, right?”

She spoke carefully.

Su Cheng's throat was so swollen that he could not speak.

For the passing of a good brother, and for his sensible daughter.

Su Xiaoxiao struck while the iron was hot. “Dad, let's do proper business in the future and not extort money from the villagers, okay?”

—

The next day, Su Xiaoxiao used all her willpower to pull herself out of the warm blanket.

Last night, she had made it sound easy. In fact, how could she be so optimistic?

Losing 15 taels of silver all of a sudden made this poor family worse.

It was true that there were three people at home, but there were also seven mouths waiting to eat. All of them were good-for-nothings… except for the seriously injured Wei Ting.

This guy might be a good-for-nothing after he recovered. After all, the three little ones could eat a lot, so their father's appetite should not be bad either.

“Fortunately, I bought the ingredients yesterday. I planned to do business today, so I don't have to panic.”

Su Xiaoxiao pulled open the cupboard and took out a large alms bowl filled with dough.

There was no yeast in ancient times. People used fermented old noodles or wine. She used old noodles.

The duration of fermentation of old noodles varied according to temperature. Generally speaking, the higher the temperature of the environment, the easier it was to ferment. In summer, it was usually four hours. In winter, it was eight hours.

She usually kneaded the dough before sleeping. When she woke up the next morning, it was almost fermented.

While waiting for the dough to wake up, Su Xiaoxiao boiled the red bean and green bean into two pots. She also boiled the dried plum vegetables and took out the braised pork belly.

She wanted to make crispy pastry, so she needed a layer of oil pastry.

It was not difficult to cook the oil pastry. After adding lard and white flour into the fresh egg yolk liquid, it was time to prepare the oil pastry.

The skin was wrapped in a layer of oil, making the texture even more oily and soft.

She made a total of three fillings: red bean, green bean, and dried plum.

In the end, she ran out of stuffing and only had a little dough left. On a whim, she made a few fat intestine crisps and brown sugar crisps.

“Sister… what delicious food did you make again?”

Su Ergou was woken up by the urge to pee. He went to the toilet and was attracted to the kitchen by the fragrance.

He was still half-asleep, but it didn't stop him from eating. He casually picked up a biscuit and bit into it-

Su Xiaoxiao said, “It's hot!”

“Howl-” A bubble appeared in Su Ergou's mouth.

He was awake now and his tongue was swollen.

However, it did not prevent him from eating his sister's pancakes.

“Sister, your pancakes are even better than Jin Ji's osmanthus cake!”

He was eating brown sugar. The sugar had completely melted, and it was sweet with a hint of lard. It was so delicious.

Su Xiaoxiao let him try one of each flavor.

“Are you full?”

“Oh, pretty much.”

“Then pack up and get ready to work.”

Su Ergou was stunned. “What work?”

… .

Fifteen minutes later, the siblings carried the basket to town.

“Sister, where are we going to sell it? The market?” Su Ergou asked.

Ordinary people might have reservations about their first time doing business.

Su Ergou was talented and his skin was thick enough to be used as the sole of a shoe. Would he have reservations? It was impossible!

“Not the market,” Su Xiaoxiao said.

Su Ergou asked curiously, “Then where are we going?”

Chapter 20

“Jin Ji.”

“No way, Sister? Are you going to sell the pancakes to Jin Ji?”

If it was before yesterday, she might have tried this. However, after experiencing the incident at Rongen Hall, she understood that a small village girl like her was not worthy of these shops.

“Let's go opposite Jin Ji.”

Su Ergou was dumbfounded. “Sister, Jin Ji sells snacks! How many have set up shop to compete with Jin Ji only to close down? Can we win against Jin Ji?”

Su Xiaoxiao said casually, “Snatch business? You're overthinking. We cant sell to that many people with two baskets of pancakes. However, it's good that you have this ambition. Perhaps one day, we can really snatch business from Jin Ji.”

Su Ergou muttered, “Sister, why do you like to daydream more than me?”

Su Xiaoxiao smiled. “Alright, we'll find out soon.”

In ancient times, there were no city enforcement officers. As long as they did not block the entrance of the shop, they could usually set up stalls where they liked. Of course, if they affected the operation of the shop, they would be chased away by the shop owners.

The jewelry shop opposite Jin Ji opened late. It was the right time to set up a stall.

The first pot of osmanthus cake was about to be ready. There was a long line at the door.

The more Su Ergou looked at them, the more he felt that he might not be able to sell any of them today.

Su Xiaoxiao found a suitable spot and took out the biscuit.

They didn't have a stall. Before leaving, Su Xiaoxiao made a bamboo sieve tray around her neck.

The golden pastry was placed neatly on the tray. If it were any other vendor, they might not have attracted much attention.

But Su Xiaoxiao was a 200-pound fatty!

Who would walk over and not look at her twice?

Even those who were waiting in line for Jin's snacks couldn't help but look at her frequently.

“Sister, let me serve the pancakes,” said Su Ergou.

“No need. You have another mission.” Su Xiaoxiao picked up a pastry and handed it to Su Ergou. “Eat.”

Su Ergou: “Aren't we selling it?”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “You don't understand. This is called eating broadcast.”

Su Ergou was speechless.

Su Ergou was already used to his sister's abnormal behavior after she broke her head. Since his sister wanted him to eat it, he would eat it.

When he was on the third pancake, a young girl finally couldn't take it anymore. She pulled her mother's hand and said, “Mom, I want to eat that.”

The mother and daughter walked forward.

The woman asked, “How much are your pancakes?”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Ten copper coins for one. There are three flavors. The one with white sesame has red bean filling, the one with black sesame has dried vegetable meat filling, and the one with double sesame has green bean filling.”

The woman frowned and said, “Meat buns are only two copper coins each. You're selling a palm-sized pancake for ten copper coins. It's too expensive!”

Su Xiaoxiao explained patiently, “There's a lot of sugar. It's very sweet. There's meat in the dried plum vegetables and there's a lot of filling.”

In ancient times, sugar was expensive. The cost was obvious. This was already the price of conscience.

“Why don't you try it first? You can buy it if it's delicious.”

“Ah…”

The woman was stunned.

Su Xiaoxiao wrapped her hand in clean gauze and cut three pancakes. She let the woman and her child try a small piece of each flavor.

“Mom! It's delicious!”

For once, the woman did not retort.

She thought that the snacks sold by a village girl would not taste good, but who knew that it was so delicious?

Moreover, she noticed that Little Fatty's actions when cutting the pancakes were very clean.

“Two of each,” the woman said.

Su Xiaoxiao took out a clean bamboo leaf pancake. “I'll give you an extra one since you're our first customer. Which flavor do you want?”

“Which one do you like best?” the woman asked her daughter.

The little girl said straightforwardly, “I like them all!”

“Give me one with dried plum vegetables,” the woman said.

“Alright.” Su Xiaoxiao handed the wrapped biscuit to the woman.

The woman took out her purse.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Ergou, collect the money.”

Looking at the 60 copper coins that suddenly appeared in his bag, Su Ergou found it unbelievable.

How long had it been? He had already earned so much?

It was even faster than him and his father going from house to house to extort money!

Everyone saw the reaction of the mother and daughter. Some people suspected that it was an act, while others were genuinely curious.

Suddenly, a young scholar in the team at the entrance of Jin Ji shouted, “Aiya! It's her!”

The companion in front of him turned his head and asked, “Who is it?”

“I asked you to come to Jin Ji with me yesterday, but you didn't come. You missed it!” The scholar pointed at Su Xiaoxiao and said, “She's the fat village girl I told you about who saved the choking child!”

“Ah, that's right! It's her!”

The person who said this was the old man who had just bought his first box of snacks.

He was also there when Su Xiaoxiao saved the child.

The scholar smiled and said, “I'll go buy her pancakes!”

His companion panicked. “Hey! It's our turn in another two hours! We've been queuing for almost an hour!”

The scholar ignored him and went across the street without looking back.

“Lady, do you remember me?”

“We've met?”

“Okay. I was upstairs yesterday, and you were in the lobby. You were busy saving people, so you probably didn't see me.”

Su Xiaoxiao understood. It was a guest of Jin Ji.

The scholar patted the folding fan in his hand and said, “Your pancakes look very ordinary. Jin Ji also has such pancakes.”

Su Xiaoxiao said seriously, “But mine is better.”

“Ha!” The scholar laughed. He was not mocking her, but he simply felt that this little fat village girl was a little cute.

“If it tastes bad, I'll buy it too since I respect you as a heroine! Give me ten!”

Su Xiaoxiao wrapped ten for him.

The scholar was puzzled. “Why didn't you give me one? The lady only bought six just now.”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “That's business. If you come first tomorrow, I'll give you one even if you only buy one.”

The scholar was not greedy for a snack. He did not expect it to be delicious. He was just teasing her.

He wouldn't come tomorrow!

Thinking of something, he asked, “Does your pancake have a name? Jin Ji's is called Supiao.”

Su Xiaoxiao thought for a moment and said, “Wife Cake.”

The scholar was speechless.

… .

The snacks sold more smoothly than expected. In less than an hour, all 100 pancakes were sold.

If they had gone to the market, they would not be able to sell it so quickly.

After all, she had set a high price. The commoners who went to the market might not be willing to spend ten copper coins on a small snack.

Of course, Jin Ji's customers were not short of money. If she made hers cheaper than Jin Ji's, there would not be so many people buying it.

In addition, she had the aura of saving people and also earned the trust of her customers.

Finally, there was a small gimmick-the name of the puff pastry.

Wife Cake. How novel.

Due to the limitations of her cooking tools, the pancakes she made were very different from the ones in her previous life.

However, for ancient people who had never eaten all kinds of preservatives and additives, the taste of this pastry was already very wonderful.

When they closed the stall, Su Ergou smiled slyly. “Sister, guess how many copper coins we earned today?”

Chapter 21

“Seven hundred and eighty.”

Su Xiaoxiao said.

Su Ergou was surprised. “Sister, I was the one who collected the money. How did you know?”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “We used twelve for tasting and gave one away. You ate three and crushed six. The remaining seventy-eight cost ten coins each.”

Su Ergou admired her sister so much.

“Sister, did you hurt your brain? Did you recover from the fall?”

Su Xiaoxiao was speechless at her silly brother.

“Sister, are we still selling pancakes tomorrow?”

“Yes.”

“Are we still heading to Jin Ji?”

“Yeah.”

She would continue to leech off Jin Ji's traffic.

“Alright!”

Su Ergou was very happy.

Selling pancakes was much easier than extorting money. He could even eat them all the time.

“Sister, I like dried plum vegetables the most!”

It was oily and salty with a hint of sweetness. It was so delicious that he wanted to bite his tongue.

“Is your tongue done?” Su Xiaoxiao asked.

Su Ergou stuck out his tongue a few times. It did not hurt.

He said, “Done.”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “I'll make you preserved vegetables and braised pork when we get back.”

Su Ergou asked, “What's that?”

Su Xiaoxiao smiled. “You'll know after eating. Let's go to the market to buy some ingredients.”

Business was too good. She planned to make more tomorrow but the ingredients would not last for a few days.

“Miss!”

She had just arrived at the entrance of the market when she was stopped.

She looked up and saw that it was the young butcher.

The butcher jogged over and said with sweat all over his face, “You're finally here. Otherwise, I was wondering where to find you.”

“Looking for me?” Su Xiaoxiao looked at him in shock.

The butcher smiled in embarrassment. “It's like this. Do you… have any more of the braised intestines you made yesterday?”

To be honest, he didn't plan to eat it at first, but it would be a pity to throw it away, so he braced himself and tasted it.

“It's better than my mother's.”

Su Xiaoxiao rubbed her chin. “Are you here to ask me how to make braised intestines, or do you want to buy a bowl of braised intestines from me?”

“Ah…”

The butcher was successfully stumped.

Naturally… he was here to ask for guidance on the cooking method. However, after hearing the little village girl's words, he felt that it seemed a little unreasonable not to buy a bowl.

“Buy, buy… How do you sell it? How much do the braised intestines cost?”

Look, he was stuttering.

Su Xiaoxiao smiled. “It's not expensive. Twenty coins a catty.”

Butcher suspected he'd heard wrong.

‘Twenty… twenty coins? A catty?'

A whole set of pig intestines weighed 20 catties and could not be sold for 10 copper coins. How did she dare to shout this price?

The rarer something was, the more expensive it was. In the entire market, she was the only one who could make this braised food. Moreover, sugar and salt were expensive. She really did not bid recklessly.

Su Xiaoxiao continued, “If you buy it, I'll only charge you ten copper coins.”

The butcher said blankly, “So… so cheap?”

Could it be that the little village girl had taken a fancy to him?

Su Xiaoxiao smiled. “See you tomorrow, then.”

“Ah, see you tomorrow.”

The young butcher turned and blushed.

When Su Xiaoxiao passed by the stall selling dry goods, she met the old woman again.

The old woman opened her mouth and said, “60 copper coins for dried plum vegetables!”

She had lost 50 copper coins last time!

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Oh, I don't want dried plums today.”

The old woman was speechless.

—

There were not many ingredients bought today, and Su Ergou carried everything the entire time. They did not take the ox cart and walked back to the village.

Old Master Su was not at home. He must have gone to settle Uncle Cheng's matters.

The three little ones were at Liu Shan's house.

“Go and fetch Dahu and the others,” Su Xiaoxiao said to Su Ergou.

“Alright!”

Su Ergou put down the heavy basket and walked out of the central room. After a while, he returned in a panic.

“Sister! Sister! Sister! Someone's here!”

Su Xiaoxiao was getting water in the backyard to wash her hands. Hearing this, she looked up calmly. “Who's here?”

Su Ergou said, “It's Uncle and Aunt!”

The uncle and aunt that Ergou mentioned were from the family of their biological mother, Madam Chen. Their uncle was Chen's biological brother. His name was Chen Feng and his wife was Madam Huang.

The Chen family was from Willow Village.

Su Xiaoxiao searched through the Host's memories and understood why Su Ergou had such a reaction when the Chen family came.

Father Su was a beggar who wandered to Willow Village. He became a cowherd for the Li family and grew up eating all kinds of food. As for the Chen family, they naturally wouldn't find a cowherd as their son-in-law.

The Chen family had arranged a marriage for Madam Chen in town.

The groom already had a wife and he had been unruly to Madam Chen before the wedding. Therefore, Madam Chen refused to marry him. For the sake of the generous betrothal gift, the Chen family forced Madam Chen into the marriage.

It was the young Su Cheng who ran to the town and beat that person up ruthlessly and the marriage was ruined.

Later on, Madam Chen wanted to marry Su Cheng. The Chen family did not agree and threatened to sever ties with Madam Chen if they dared to marry!

They thought that this could scare Madam Chen, but they did not expect Madam Chen to pull the young Su Cheng out of Willow Village without hesitation and settle down in Xinghua Village.

During the years when Daddy Su was in the limelight, the two families resumed their relationship.

Later on, Madam Chen, unfortunately, passed away when Su Cheng had taken a long journey. He did not even see his wife for the last time. After that, he quit being an escort.

The Chen family blamed Su Cheng for Madam Chen's death. Not only did Su Cheng pay a large sum of money, but the relationship between the two families also broke down again.

Occasionally, they would bump into each other. The Chen family always treated the Su family of three badly.

Because of his wife, Su Cheng was especially tolerant of the Chen family. Su Daya and Su Ergou did not dare to challenge the Chen family.

After Su Xiaoxiao digested the memories in her mind, Chen Feng and Madam Huang entered.

“Yo, isn't this Daya?”

Madam Huang saw Su Xiaoxiao walking in from the back door.

Su Ergou hid behind his sister.

Su Xiaoxiao said to him, “Ergou, greet Uncle and Aunt.”

Su Ergou reluctantly stuck his head out. “Uncle, Aunt.”

Chen Feng had a serious expression.

Madam Huang walked forward with a smile and sized up the siblings. “It's only been a while since we last met, but Ergou is already so tall! And Daya is also so…”

“Fat.” Su Xiaoxiao finished her sentence.

Madam Huang smiled awkwardly and sat down with Su Xiaoxiao.

Chen Feng sat down early.

He frowned at the Su family, who had suddenly stopped being sloppy. For a moment, he suspected that he had come to the wrong place.

The last time the Su family was so clean was when his sister was still alive.

Madam Huang had actually discovered it too, but she automatically ignored it. She was here today for serious business.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Ergou, go to the kitchen and boil some water to make tea for Uncle and Aunt.”

“Aye.” Su Ergou fled the central room with relief.

Madam Huang held Su Xiaoxiao's hand affectionately and smiled. “Where's your father? Isn't he at home?”

Su Xiaoxiao looked at her hand. One who was unaccountably solicitous was hiding evil intentions.

“Father went out. I don't know if he'll be back today. Uncle and Aunt came at the wrong time.”

Madam Huang's smile froze. “…Your father won't object anyway. It's the same if I tell you.”

Su Xiaoxiao smiled faintly. “What do you want to tell me, Aunt?”

Madam Huang said indignantly, “Your uncle and I heard about He Tongsheng. That Tongsheng is really a scumbag! How dare he humiliate you like this!”

Su Xiaoxiao nodded. “So Aunt is here to stand up for me?”

Madam Huang's smile froze again. “Of course. Tomorrow, let your uncle come and beat that He up!”

Su Xiaoxiao nodded. “Why don't we go today?”

Madam Huang was dumbfounded.

Chapter 22

“Just tell her that you're here to propose marriage!”

At the side, Chen Feng spoke. If they continued chatting like this, they would not be able to get to the main topic even if the sky turned dark.

“To matchmake me?” Su Xiaoxiao was surprised.

Madam Huang smiled brightly and said, “That's right. Yaya, you're not young anymore, and your engagement with He Tongsheng has been called off. I'm afraid it will be difficult for you to find a husband in the future. Alas, who asked you to have the blood of our Chen family flowing in your bones? Your uncle and I can't let you live alone for the rest of your life.”

Su Xiaoxiao asked, “Then, which family are you planning to tell me about?”

Madam Huang said, “Of course, it's our Chen family! Marry your cousin and we'll be even closer!”

She had three cousins in the Chen family: her eldest cousin, her second cousin, and her youngest cousin. They were 19, 17, and 18 years old respectively. None of them were betrothed.

Su Xiaoxiao was deep in thought. “Eldest Cousin is indeed old enough to be married.”

Madam Huang immediately said, “It's your second cousin!”

Her second cousin was not her aunt's biological son. He was an illegitimate son brought back by her uncle, Chen Feng.

Back then, Madam Huang had caused a lot of trouble because of this. However, she could not go against the entire family, so she reluctantly kept the child.

Su Xiaoxiao pouted in disdain. “So you're trying to matchmake that illegitimate son. I thought you wanted me to marry my eldest cousin!”

“Your cousin is a scholar!” Madam Huang blurted out.

Su Xiaoxiao asked innocently, “Aunt, you mean… he's out of my league!”

Madam Huang did not respond.

Of course, a notorious fat girl was not worthy of her son, but she would not say it out loud!

Madam Huang smiled awkwardly. “Your eldest cousin is a bookworm and doesn't know how to dote on others. Your second cousin is about the same age as you. He has mentioned it to me a few times that he likes you very much. Besides, doesn't your father want his son-in-law to marry into the family? Who would let their eldest son marry into the family?”

Su Xiaoxiao was enlightened. “Oh, so you want him married into the bride's family.”

Madam Huang smiled. “Don't worry, we're family. We won't take the betrothal money and break the engagement!”

Here was the main point.

Su Xiaoxiao asked with a faint smile, “How much betrothal money do you want, Aunt?”

Madam Huang said earnestly, “Although you've been married once and are a married woman, the Chen family won't despise you. Aunt won't ask for too much betrothal money either. You can just give the Chen family whatever your father gave to the He family.”

Listen, what kind of tone was this? It was as if she had suffered a lot as a living Bodhisattva.

Did Madam Huang really think that she could not tell what she was planning?

Not only could she get rid of an eyesore, but she could also get twenty taels of silver. It was simply killing two birds with one stone.

However, why did the Huang family only come at this time?

Su Xiaoxiao remembered that day when she and her brother sat on the ox cart going toward Willow Village and even threatened to ask He Tongsheng to return the silver.

The coachman must have mentioned this to the Chen family after returning to the village. Seeing that there was profit to be made, the Chen family quickly came to look for them.

Madam Huang continued, “Your marriage was publicly called off by He Tongsheng. I'm afraid no one in the surrounding villages would dare to marry you, let alone be your family's live-in son-in-law. It was only because of your uncle's relationship with your mother that he agreed to your marriage with your second cousin. Your grandfather originally didn't agree, but your uncle and I persuaded him for two nights.”

Two nights. The time matched.

Su Xiaoxiao couldn't be bothered to feign civility with her anymore. She hit the nail on the head and said, “He Tongsheng is a scholar after all. Why does Second Cousin need twenty taels of betrothal money?”‘

It was not that she looked down on her second cousin, but since the Huang family wanted to sell their son, they had to allow others to bargain, right?

Madam Huang felt a little embarrassed. “What are you talking about? That's your second cousin!”

Su Xiaoxiao smiled faintly. “I'm your biological niece. Twenty taels of silver. Unless it's Eldest Cousin, there's no way!”

“You…”

Madam Huang was furious.

An ugly and fat stupid girl actually dared to covet her son!

A toad lusting after swan meat!

Pfft!

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Can't you bear to do it, Aunt? Ergou, send the guest out.”

“Aye!”

Su Ergou, who was hiding in the backyard and eavesdropping, ran out without a word. Halfway through, he turned back to his sister and whispered, “Sister, how should I send them off?”

Su Xiaoxiao was speechless.

Women always turned hostile quickly, especially when Madam Huang looked down on the Su family. Seeing that Fatty Su was serious, she couldn't be bothered to pretend to be good-tempered!

She stood up and pointed at Su Xiaoxiao's nose. “I asked Erlang to marry you because I pity you! You're fat and stupid! You're lazy! Your reputation is bad! On the day of the wedding, the groom abandoned you and ran away! The villagers are all watching you make a fool of yourself! Do you really think anyone still wants you?!”

Chen Feng frowned.

Su Xiaoxiao looked at Chen Feng. “Uncle, do you think so too?”

Chen Feng frowned even more. “Daya, although your aunt's words are unpleasant, it's the truth. If your family can't take out so many betrothal gifts, it's fine if it's less.”

Madam Huang almost subconsciously screamed, “No less! What will we do about our eldest son!”

Su Xiaoxiao smiled. “So Aunt is already arranging a marriage for Eldest Cousin. Uncle, Aunt, are you planning to sell your illegitimate son and use the money you earned for your eldest son to take a wife? What a good plan. What a pity, I won't be this fool!”

The commotion was too big, causing many villagers to watch from the door.

Liu Shan's second daughter-in-law, Madam He, was the first to arrive and heard everything.

“The Chen family is here to arrange a marriage for their son.”

She took on the role of the commentator. “It's twenty taels of dowry.”

“To be the lived-in son-in-law.”

“Yes.”

“It's not the son who's a scholar, it's the second son! The son of a prostitute outside! Yes! The one with a slight limp in his right eye!”

News of the Chen family's rotten deeds had long spread throughout the countryside.

Logically speaking, Fatty Su's net worth was so bad. Marrying a crippled illegitimate son was considered a match made in heaven.

However, the Chen family actually asked for twenty taels of silver. They were really shameless.

Sun Ergua shouted, “Fat Lass! My son will be your live-in son-in-law! You can just give him two taels!”

Madam He glared at him and said, “Go away! Where did your son come from!”

Everyone laughed.

Madam Huang's expression turned ugly. How could she not know that an illegitimate son was not worth twenty taels of silver?

However, the Su family of three had always agreed to everything the Chen family asked for. No matter how unreasonable this girl was outside, she could only listen to her obediently.

It was as if she was a different person today!

It was her fault for not knowing that they had twenty taels of silver in their hands! If she had known, she would have come long ago to take the silver!

There were more and more villagers watching, so she couldn't throw a tantrum anymore. She forced a smile and said, “Aunt is doing this for your own good. Only by marrying your second cousin will you have a good life in the future.”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Aunt, I have a husband.”

Madam Huang chuckled. “I don't believe you! Call him out if you dare!”

Chapter 23

“Fatty Su didn't lie to you. She's really married. We gave her all the money!”

“That's right! I gave him three portions!”

“She even brought three burdens with her!”

“I've never seen him before. Fatty Su, could it be that your husband is so ugly that he can't be seen by others?”

“Hahaha…”

The villagers laughed again.

Su Xiaoxiao finally understood. These people did not mind watching the show. They were not helping the Huang family or siding with her.

However, she really could not call Wei Ting out. It was not that she felt that he was too ugly to see anyone, but that Wei Ting would never help her deal with the Huang family and the villagers.

“What happened?”

A magnetic voice came from behind.

It was Wei Ting's voice.

Su Xiaoxiao's first reaction was, “Can this guy get out of bed?”

Her second reaction was that it was over. If Wei Ting did not cooperate and said that he was not her husband, she would not be able to clean up the mess.

This was very definitely something Wei Ting could do.

She clenched her fists and quickly thought of a solution. She did not notice the reaction of the Huang family and the villagers.

Wei Ting came to her side and asked softly, “Why is it so noisy at home?”

Su Xiaoxiao, who was used to Wei Ting's sarcasm, was stunned by his gentle tone.

She subconsciously turned to look at Wei Ting.

Now she was even more confused.

Wei Ting's face was no longer swollen, revealing his original appearance. His face was like jade, his thick eyebrows slanted to his temples, and his nose was high. His deep eyes were looking at her without blinking.

His obsidian-like eyes reflected her stunned little chubby face.

When he was lying down, he looked very long, but when he stood up, he seemed to be taller. His posture was tall and straight, like a bamboo. Even the rough linen clothes could not hide his noble aura.

Daddy Su didn't lie to her… This was really a man a hundred times better looking than He Tongsheng!

Su Xiaoxiao was stunned.

This was a man who could make all women blush and their hearts beat faster. She had just laughed at him for being so ugly that she couldn't bear to see him. Now, she wished she could bite her tongue.

Wei Ting smiled and took out a cotton shirt to put on Su Xiaoxiao. “It's windy in the hall. Be careful not to catch a cold.”

Su Xiaoxiao wasn't infatuated, but this body was. Otherwise, she wouldn't have been unable to walk when she saw He Tongsheng.

That was not the point.

The main point was, why did Wei Ting suddenly become so gentle and considerate?

Wei Ting's gaze swept across Madam Huang and Chen Feng, who stood up in shock. He turned to ask Su Ergou, “Ergou, they are… ”

Su Ergou replied, “Uncle, Aunt!”

Wei Ting said politely, “So it's Uncle and Aunt. Please sit.”

Chen Feng couldn't help but ask, “You are… ”

Su Ergou took a step forward. “My brother-in-law!”

What a strange feeling. He was clearly afraid of his uncle and aunt, but once his brother-in-law came out, he immediately felt confident!

For the first time since Chen Feng entered, he revealed an incredulous expression.

Madam Huang also had a look of disbelief on her face. This was even more shocking than a knife falling from the sky.

Wei Ting asked, “Uncle, Aunt, why did you come today?”

Su Xiaoxiao thought, Heh, didn't you hear them from where you were?

“I…” Madam Huang opened her mouth and was speechless.

Just now, she kept saying that no one wanted this girl, but now, such a handsome husband appeared. This was a slap to her face.

“Husband.” After confirming that he wasn't here to undermine her, Su Xiaoxiao's evil streak surfaced.

She blinked her tearless eyes and said aggrievedly, “Uncle and Aunt are here to break us up.”

Madam Huang was shocked. “When did I come to break you up?”

Su Xiaoxiao continued to look aggrieved. “Didn't Aunt just propose to me? She said that other than Second Cousin, no other man in the world would sincerely treat me well. I'm fat and stupid, and no one wants me.”

Wei Ting smiled at her. “Who said that? You're not fat at all.”

Su Xiaoxiao looked at him with an even more innocent gaze than Bambi. “Am I stupid?”

Wei Ting took a deep breath and smiled. “Not stupid. Very smart.”

Su Xiaoxiao held his slender hand and asked in a choked voice, “Husband, will you not want me?”

Enough was enough!

Wei Ting smiled. “I'm your husband. Of course, I won't abandon you.”

Su Xiaoxiao threw herself into his arms. “Husband, you're the best!”

Su Ergou trembled. His sister was acting up again.

The villagers who were forced to eat their public displays of affection were quite full by now!

The Chen couple had their faces slapped. Thinking of how they had boasted so much, the Su family had already had a live-in son-in-law.

Su Xiaoxiao took out her handkerchief and cried. “Husband, Aunt said that Eldest Cousin is a scholar. I'm not worthy of him. You should go and become a scholar too! You'll bring glory to our Su family!”

“They've already left.”

Wei Ting turned back into an iceberg in a second.

So soon.

She hadn't acted enough.

Su Xiaoxiao pushed her chest and got up from his arms, touching his chest in the process.

Wei Ting was speechless.

“They're all gone? Eh? Where's Ergou?”

“He went to the kitchen to get some water.”

Wei Ting returned to his room.

Su Xiaoxiao followed with her chubby legs.

Wei Ting sat down by the bed with a cold expression. “Why are you here again?”

Su Xiaoxiao placed her chubby hands behind her back and raised her eyebrows. “Of course, I'm checking your injuries… Hubby!”

Wei Ting said coldly, “Don't call me that.”

The gentle Wei Ting was still cute, even though he was pretending.

Su Xiaoxiao clapped her hands. “Alright, I won't tease you anymore. Let me see your injuries.”

Wei Ting looked warily at the pair of chubby hands reaching towards him and said in a low voice, “I'll do it myself.”

Su Xiaoxiao straightened and gestured. “You do it.”

Wei Ting couldn't unbutton his shirt for a long time.

He lowered his hand awkwardly and looked away.

Amused, Su Xiaoxiao walked forward and removed his clothes, removing the gauze on his abdomen and left calf.

The last time she took medicine from the base's pharmacy, it was all the latest special medicine. She had to admit that the effect was really good. The wound had already scabbed over, and there was no swelling at all.

However, he was so injured that his bones were visible. He had to stay in bed and recuperate.

“My calf is swollen.”

He would occasionally get out of bed, but he was supported by Su Ergou, and he used the strength of his right leg.

In order to help her, he walked out as if nothing had happened.

Su Xiaoxiao lost her intention of teasing him. She said seriously, “I'll apply some medication for you. Tell me if it hurts.”

Wei Ting said calmly, “It's just a small injury.”

There were many old scars on his body. He had risked his life countless times.

After treating Wei Ting's injuries, Su Xiaoxiao went to the backyard.

The three little ones walked in and looked at him cutely.

“Are you satisfied?” Wei Ting couldn't be bothered with the three brats.

The three little ones stretched out their little fists.

Daddy had worked hard. They massaged Daddy's legs.

Wei Ting snorted in satisfaction. “This is the only time. I won't help her next time… Tsk! You hit my wound!!!”

Chapter 24

The three little ones were pragmatic. After serving their father, they shook their heads and ran to the kitchen to look for Su Xiaoxiao.

There was no reluctance to leave! Wei Ting's mouth twitched.

Little bastards…

Su Xiaoxiao was talking to Little Wu at the back door of the kitchen.

Today, Su Cheng was going to settle the Cheng family's matters, so Su Xiaoxiao entrusted the three children to Little Wu.

In return, she gave Little Wu some food.

Little Wu said, “I haven't finished the pancakes you gave me this morning.”

“Were they delicious?” Su Xiaoxiao asked.

“D-delicious,” Little Wu said.

She was not being polite. It was sincere praise.

Once, when her sister-in-law was sick, she accompanied her mother-in-law to the neighboring village for a meal. She heard that they had invited a chef from town. It was the best meal she had ever eaten.

However, she felt that Fatty Su's pancakes were no worse than that chef's.

Su Xiaoxiao handed her a covered bowl. “These are crushed and not easy to sell. If you don't mind, take them back for the children.”

Little Wu wanted to continue rejecting her, but Su Xiaoxiao glared at her and obediently took the bowl.

She only opened the bowl after returning to her kitchen.

Although they were said to be broken pancakes, there were actually only very slight cracks. Such pancakes were still sold in the market.

Not only were there three pancakes in the bowl but there was also a large piece of fat and thin braised meat under it.

The family could barely afford two meals of meat in a month. Basically, the meat would be prioritized for her father-in-law, second brother, and Niudan. Her mother-in-law and second sister-in-law, Madam He, could occasionally get a piece of meat, but she and her daughters had not tasted meat for half a year.

With the meat filling in the pancake that Fatty Su gave her this morning and what she had just received, had she actually eaten two meals of meat in a day?

… .

Liu Shan's family did not say anything about Little Wu taking care of the Su family's children. The Su family was domineering, so it was not surprising that they would make people to take care of their children.

If Little Wu didn't do it, would he let Madam He and Big Wu do it instead?

Even though Little Wu had to take care of the children, she did not miss out on any work.

In the kitchen, the three children surrounded the stove and stood on their tiptoes to look into the pot.

However, they were not as tall as the stove and could not get a proper glimpse.

“Mother,” Xiaohu said as he looked at Su Xiaoxiao's chopping board. “Xiaohu, eat.”

Su Xiaoxiao mischievously picked up a sliced green onion and fed it to him.

Xiaohu opened his mouth and took a bite. He frowned and stuck out his tongue.

Su Xiaoxiao laughed uncontrollably.

Having seen Xiaohu testing the onion, the other two were no longer interested in the things on the chopping board. They turned to look at the leftover shortbread in the basket on the small table.

They had eaten shortbread this morning. It was delicious.

But now, they didn't want to eat this because just now, all three pastries had been licked by Xiaohu.

“Sister! I'm hungry. Is there anything to eat?” Su Ergou walked into the kitchen.

Dahu grabbed the basket on the small table and handed it to Su Ergou. “Uncle, eat.”

“Aren't you eating?” Su Ergou asked.

Dahu and Erhu shook their heads. Xiaohu was still sticking out his tongue in disgust.

“Oh, then I'll eat it!” Su Ergou held the basket in one hand and stuffed a pastry into his mouth with the other.

“Eh? Why is it a little damp…”

—

Father Su had gone to settle the Cheng family's matters and would probably only return at night.

Su Xiaoxiao made fried onion and kidney, crispy meat, stir-fried vegetables, and steamed egg custard.

She had steamed a big bowl previously, but the three little ones didn't like it. They liked to pack it in small wontons and each had a portion.

Su Ergou and Wei Ting were also involved.

“Ergou, serve the dishes.”

“Coming!”

Su Ergou quickly entered the kitchen, carried out the cooked dishes, and scooped rice for the family.

Su Xiaoxiao went to Wei Ting's room.

“Shall I bring it in for you, or will you go out and eat with us?” she asked.

Wei Ting looked at the three brats running around the central room and said, “I'll go out to eat.”

Su Xiaoxiao came to the side of his bed.

“What are you doing?”

“I'm helping you. Can you walk by yourself? Don't ruin your left leg again! You're wasting my medicine!”

Wei Ting frowned, probably wanting Su Ergou to come over. However, after hesitating for a moment, he still handed his hand to Su Xiaoxiao.

Su Xiaoxiao helped him sit down in the central room.

“Brother-in-law! Are your injuries better?” Su Ergou asked.

Wei Ting did not know whether to respond or not. He only said, “Much better.”

Wei Ting sat opposite Su Xiaoxiao. On Su Xiaoxiao's left were the three little ones, and on her right was Su Ergou.

The three of them were too short to sit down. Su Xiaoxiao leaned the chair against the table and let the three of them stand on it to eat.

Su Ergou picked up the bowl and chopsticks and whispered into Su Xiaoxiao's ear, “Sister, Brother-in-law is quite good-looking, right? Dad and I didn't lie to you, right? Is he a hundred times better-looking than He Tongsheng? I told you you would like him!”

Wei Ting ate his food unhurriedly.

Su Xiaoxiao glanced at Wei Ting and gritted her teeth. “Can you be any louder? Eat!”

“Oh.” Su Ergou buried his head in his food.

The three little ones also ate seriously. It was just that they were too young and food fragments were scattered all over the table.

Now, it was Wei Ting's turn to gaze at Su Xiaoxiao.

There was no impatience or annoyance in Su Xiaoxiao's eyes.

Wei Ting felt a little relieved. He picked up a piece of meat and ate it.

“What dish is this?”

He asked Su Xiaoxiao.

Su Xiaoxiao took a look and said, “What's wrong? Is it not delicious?”

Wei Ting thought for a moment and said, “No, but… the taste is a little strange.”

“It's a pig's kidney,” Su Xiaoxiao said.

“Cough! Cough, cough, cough!” Wei Ting choked and turned his head to avoid the dining table.

After coughing, he looked at Su Xiaoxiao in shock. “Say it again. What is this?”

“A pig's kidney!” Su Xiaoxiao smiled. “I used yellow wine to remove the fishy smell! Does it taste tender and refreshing!”

Wei Ting suddenly felt that the food in his bowl was not fragrant.

Su Xiaoxiao pushed the plate in front of him. “I specially bought it for you to nourish your body. It's good for your kidney and spine. Eat more!”

Wei Ting squeezed his chopsticks. “My body is in very good condition!”

Su Xiaoxiao glanced at the three little ones and nodded thoughtfully.

Wei Ting was speechless.

He didn't mean that!

—

At night, Father Su finally returned. He ran around for the entire day. First, he asked for the fifteen taels of silver on the IOU from the He family. Then, he brought Old Cheng's orphan to pay the debts owed by the Cheng family.

In the end, there were seven taels left. The Cheng family didn't want it no matter what. He secretly stuffed it into the Cheng family's closet.

With one thing settled, he could finally sleep. When Su Xiaoxiao brought dinner into his room, he was already asleep.

Su Xiaoxiao returned to her room.

As she recorded the accounts in her mind, she thought about what to do next.

In her previous life, she had never been worried about money. Now, she wished she could split a copper coin into two.

The three little ones came to sleep again tonight, but Su Xiaoxiao rejected them.

The three little ones went to sleep with Su Ergou.

Not long after, Su Ergou screamed from the west room. “Ahhh! They peed! They peed!”

Chapter 25

The three of them had wet their bed and their urine had formed a big map on the sheet; the entire bed became their river.

When Su Xiaoxiao went over, the three little ones looked at her innocently.

“Sister! How can I sleep like this?” Su Ergou felt wronged.

Su Ergou's bed could not be slept on. Wei Ting's was a small bed and could not accommodate another person.

Su Xiaoxiao sighed helplessly. “Ergou, go sleep at Dad's place. Dahu, Erhu, Xiaohu, come to my room to sleep.”

Su Xiaoxiao changed the three children into dry clothes. The three of them hugged their beloved pillows and climbed into Su Xiaoxiao's bed.

Looking at the three children who had successfully slept on her bed again, Su Xiaoxiao said solemnly, “This is really the last time!”

The three little ones nodded.

“Close your eyes and sleep!” Su Xiaoxiao said fiercely.

The three little ones obediently closed their eyes and fell asleep sweetly.

… .

The three of them didn't look like they were sleeping. When Su Xiaoxiao woke up, there was no one beside her.

She rummaged around the bed. As expected, there was one on the side, one on the bed, and one in the corner.

The three of them slept soundly, looking a little cute.

Su Xiaoxiao stuffed the three of them under the blanket and poked their fair and tender faces one by one, automatically imagining the sound effects.

She amused himself.

They were like three cute little window dolls.

Su Xiaoxiao dressed up and carried her laundry to the backyard.

There had been a light snowfall last night. The ground was thin, and there was a slight creaking sound when one stepped on it.

Su Xiaoxiao grew up in the south in her previous life and rarely had the chance to see snow. Later on, she went to the university and studied in a northern city for eight years.

Her strong adaptability was probably nurtured by those eight years.

Su Xiaoxiao went to the kitchen to heat up the fire. She boiled the hot water in the pot and took out the dough and soaked beans from the cupboard.

While waiting for the water to boil and the dough to rise, she moved a small stool and sat under the straw shed in the backyard to wash her clothes.

Wei Ting's fever had subsided and he was no longer muddle-headed. Naturally, he woke up early.

He limped to the backyard to wash up, but he saw Su Xiaoxiao sitting in the cold and washing her clothes.

He had also heard the commotion last night. The three brats had actually wet the bed.

It was obvious that she was washing the bedsheets that had been wet by the babies.

She didn't complain at all.

Why?

Of course, it was to lose weight.

The clothes at home had always been washed by Su Ergou. There was not much Su Xiaoxiao could do now, so she could only snatch the housework.

Su Xiaoxiao hummed a tune as she washed.

In her previous life, she was tone-deaf, but this body had a throat that had been kissed by an angel. In addition, she was fat and had a large lung capacity. She could sing at a high pitch without panting.

However, she still controlled her strength a little early in the morning.

Wei Ting looked at her happy expression and felt that he could not understand her.

“Eh? You're up?”

Wei Ting was slightly stunned. Only then did he realize that he had been lost in thought with a little fat girl.

He composed himself and said calmly, “Who can sleep when you're so noisy?”

Su Xiaoxiao's face darkened. “I'm so noisy every day! I don't see you being unable to sleep!”

Wei Ting did not want to argue with her because she was washing the children's clothes early in the morning. He limped past her and planned to wash his face himself.

However, he overestimated his ability to move and missed a step.

Seeing that he was about to fall into the cold water tank, Su Xiaoxiao hurriedly pulled him-

She still had to make pancakes later. She couldn't dirty the water!

She might have used too much strength and pulled her head over, causing Wei Ting to pounce on her.

By the time she reacted, she was already pressed into the snow by Wei Ting.

Out of the doctor's instinct to save the dying and heal the injured, she firmly pressed the patient's head with her hand.

With the soft snow cushioning her fall, Su Xiaoxiao didn't hurt. She only recovered after feeling dizzy for a while.

“Wei Ting, you can get up.”

Wei Ting didn't move.

“Hey, although I'm fat, you're also very heavy.”

Wei Ting still did not move.

Su Xiaoxiao frowned and raised her head with difficulty to take a look.

Uh… Wei Ting seemed to have fainted because of her.

She had forgotten that she was a little fatty.

Su Xiaoxiao couldn't move Wei Ting herself, so she could only go to Father Su's house and call Su Ergou up.

“Sister, are you going to sell pancakes?” Su Ergou woke up instantly.

It turned out that selling pancakes was what it took to wake a brother who was sleeping in.

“Not yet.” Su Xiaoxiao coughed lightly. “Your brother-in-law fell in the backyard. Go and lift him.”

Didn't she help him up when he fell? Why did Su Ergou have to do it? When he got there, Su Ergou understood that his brother-in-law had fainted!

“How did you fall? Are you alright?” He was really worried about Wei Ting.

“It's fine. He'll be fine after sleeping for a while.” Su Xiaoxiao couldn't tell him that Wei Ting had fainted from suffocation in her luxurious sea view room.

“Carry him in. Don't let him freeze.”

“Alright!”

The two of them carried Wei Ting back to the small east room.

—

Su Xiaoxiao was worried that he would get seriously ill from the suffocation. She checked his injuries and took his pulse to make sure that he was fine before leaving the room.

With this delay, she and Su Ergou arrived in town two hours later than yesterday.

Jin Ji had already sold a few pots of snacks.

Su Ergou pointed at Jin Ji. “Sister, no one is queuing anymore. Everyone has bought and left.”

Not only were there fewer customers at the entrance of Jin Ji, but even the shop behind them had opened. This meant that they could no longer sell their snacks at the main entrance.

She thought for a moment and went straight to the entrance of the alley beside Jin Ji.

Su Ergou looked at the sparse pedestrians and asked bitterly, “Sister, can we sell it today…”

The situation today was indeed not in their favor.

“Little girl! You're finally here!”

A familiar voice came from across the street.

The siblings looked over at the same time.

It was the young scholar from Jin Ji yesterday. He was wearing a light blue academy uniform and holding a folding fan. He was handsome and high-spirited.

He strode over and patted his left palm with his folding fan. He said with a smile, “I've successfully waited for you! I'm the first guest today. We agreed that you'll gift me one if I buy one from you!”

“Yes.” Su Xiaoxiao nodded. “Which flavor do you want?”

The scholar snorted. “Don't you only have three flavors? Give me one of each!”

“There are four today,” Su Xiaoxiao said. “There's an extra flavor – chestnut.”

Little Wu had brought the chestnuts over this morning. After they were cooked and the shells had been peeled for her, she decided to try making ten pancakes filled with chestnuts.

The scholar said coldly, “How would I know if it's delicious?”

Su Xiaoxiao cut a small piece for him.

He calmly tasted it. “So-so.”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Oh.”

The scholar said, “I want them all.”

The siblings were dumbfounded.

Chapter 26

Before the ten chestnut pancakes could see the bustling market, the scholar put them into his pocket.

Su Xiaoxiao kept her word and gave him one.

The question was, which flavor should he choose?

The dried plum dish was not bad. It was oily but not greasy. It was crispy but not dry. There was a hint of sweetness in the salt and it was especially satisfying.

But the red bean filling and green bean filling were not bad either.

After some hesitation, the scholar took out another 20 copper coins and gathered three flavors.

Su Xiaoxiao handed him the wrapped pancakes. “I thought you didn't want to eat my biscuit yesterday?”

The scholar hummed. “I, I, I, I decided I want them today, okay?”

Su Xiaoxiao smiled. “Sure.”

The little fat girl was quite cute when she smiled.

The scholar cleared his throat and said, “Then, are you still coming tomorrow? Will you be late? Will you change places?”

Su Xiaoxiao, who was asked three times in a row, was speechless.

Due to many uncontrollable factors, Su Xiaoxiao couldn't give him a definite answer.

The scholar suggested, “Hey, why don't you sell them at the entrance of our academy? Many people in our academy have come from afar to buy snacks.”

His words seemed ordinary, but they actually gave Su Xiaoxiao an extremely high evaluation. He was just short of saying that her pancakes were high-end substitutes for Jin Ji snacks.

In ancient times, there were indeed poor students who could enter the academy, but there was no lack of children from rich families.

This provided Su Xiaoxiao with an idea.

Su Xiaoxiao thought for a moment and asked, “But does the academy allow us to set up a stall at its entrance?”

The scholar hurriedly said, “Of course!”

Su Ergou looked at him strangely. “How would you know? Does your family own the academy?”

The scholar replied affirmatively, “Yes!”

Su Ergou was speechless.

The scholar's name was Shen Chuan, and his name was Qinghe. He was really the son of the dean of the Wutong Academy.

Xinghua Town was not big. It was the only academy in town. It was not in the center of the town, but it was not too far. It was about three or four miles away on foot.

Shen Chuan sighed and said, “I asked Jin Ji to set up a stall. Unfortunately, they don't like it.”

It was normal for Jin Ji to look down on them. After all, they did not lack customers.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “I'll think about it.”

It was not far from Jin Ji to the academy, but if one counted the distance from the village to the town, it was a full ten miles.

On one hand, the distance was long. On the other hand, the main customers there were students. If they couldn't sell all the wife cakes before class in the morning, there was a high chance that they would need to wait for the students until school ended at noon.

In that case, the time cost would be high.

Shen Chuan wanted to persuade her further, but another guest came over.

She was a generous and fat aunt.

The auntie carried the basket and pushed Shen Chuan aside. She smiled at Su Xiaoxiao and said, “Girl, you're here! I've passed by several times. I thought you weren't coming to sell pancakes today!”

Su Xiaoxiao said politely, “I was a little delayed today. What flavor do you want? Or do you want two dried plums and a red bean like yesterday?”

The aunt looked at her in surprise and said, “Girl, you have such a good memory!”

Su Xiaoxiao smiled. “You give off a friendly feeling. It's hard not to remember you.”

Everyone who came out to do business knew how to say something pleasant. However, she was the first to praise the aunt like this.

The aunt was overjoyed. “I want dried plum vegetables and red bean stuffing. Also, do you have any other fillings?”

“There are green beans,” Su Xiaoxiao said.

“Four!” the aunt said.

In the blink of an eye, she sold eight more.

Although they missed the peak period in the morning, the pancakes were still sold out very quickly. Moreover, with the support of repeat customers, there were less than half of the wife pancakes than yesterday.

In addition, she corrected the way she packed the pancakes yesterday in time. None of them were crushed today.

“Sister! We earned 900 coins today!”

Su Ergou said excitedly.

There were still a hundred pancakes, six for tasting, one for free, and three for Su Ergou.

“This equivalent to a small tael!”

How many times did he and his father have to extort to gather so much?

“To the market,” Su Xiaoxiao said.

“Okay!” Su Ergou put away the money bag and took Su Xiaoxiao's bamboo sieve tray and basket. “Sister, let me take it!”

“I'm trying to lose weight!”

“Oh, okay.”

Su Ergou responded by giving her his basket.

Su Xiaoxiao was speechless.

The two of them went to the market.

The butcher was chopping pig bones when he saw Su Xiaoxiao walking toward him. His hand trembled nervously and he almost chopped off his thumb!

“That'll be fifty coins.”

He said to the old man who bought the pig bones.

The old man looked at him as if he was a fool. After paying, he left with the pig bone.

The butcher smiled awkwardly. “Y-You really came?”

Su Xiaoxiao took out a bowl of braised intestines from her basket. “Here.”

The butcher hurried to get the coppers.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “No need. This bowl is for you.”

Butcher was shocked. “What? For me?”

Su Xiaoxiao smiled. “If you think it's delicious, why don't I consign it to you in the future?”

“Huh?”

The butcher was shocked again.

Su Xiaoxiao said seriously, “I've been here for a few days. There's no braised food in the market. We'll split the profits and I'll rent your stall. I'll give you 10% of my daily income. Or I'll supply you at the lowest price. You can sell it for as much as you want.”

The butcher's smile gradually stiffened.

The little fat village girl didn't like him… She liked his stall…

—

On the other side, Shen Chuan returned to the academy with a large bag of newly bought Wife Cakes.

“Dad! I'm back!”

He went to his father's courtyard to greet him first.

However, his father was not in the house.

He was about to leave when an angry young man's voice came from a room in the back.

“How did your Rongen Hall treat people? It's been two days! Not only did my cousin not get better, but he became worse! He used to be able to wake up two or three times a day, but from yesterday noon until now, my cousin hasn't woken up once! Is this the best doctor your Rongen Hall has mentioned?! My cousin is about to die from your treatment!”

“Young Master, please calm down. Doctor Dong will take your brother's pulse again.”

“What pulse! He's simply a quack!”

Clang!

The young man seemed to have broken a vase.

Shen Chuan exclaimed softly.

Suddenly, someone behind him asked in a deep voice, “What are you doing?”

Shen Chuan trembled and turned to look at his father. “Dad! You scared me to death!”

Dean Shen looked at his son sternly. “Who asked you to eavesdrop here?”

Shen Chuan defended himself. “I didn't eavesdrop. I came to deliver snacks to you. Didn't you say that the Wife Cake yesterday was delicious? I went to buy more.”

Dean Shen remained silent with a serious expression.

Shen Chuan asked curiously, “Dad, who are the two guests who suddenly moved into our house? The older one seems to be dying. The younger one looks like he wants to kill someone.”

Dean Shen said coldly, “Don't ask what you shouldn't ask.”

Shen Chuan curled his lips and muttered softly, “Actually, I know a physician. Her medical skills are quite good.”

Dean Shen glanced at his son and warned, “Don't mess around. Not everyone is qualified to treat the person inside. If anything goes wrong, you'll be beheaded!”

Shen Chuan froze.

Chapter 27

Su Xiaoxiao bought some bean pods and fennel at the market. She originally wanted to buy some hot sauce, but after thinking about it, she felt she could go home and make it herself.

When she passed by the old woman's work stall, the old woman called out to her with a dark expression, “Aren't you buying dried plums today?”

Su Xiaoxiao spread her hands and said, “I bought a basket last time. It can last for a long time.”

The old woman gritted her teeth. For the thousandth time, she regretted selling it so cheaply.

But other than her, no one else bought it.

The old woman gritted her teeth. “I'll sell it to you at a cheap price!”

Hence, Su Xiaoxiao only spent 50 copper coins to buy another large basket of dried plums.

When they reached home, it was already past lunchtime. The three little ones were so hungry that they were howling. Father Su had cooked, but it was too disgusting.

The three little ones stuck their heads into the rice jar and did not eat the dark dishes made by Daddy Su.

Old Father Su did not eat it either.

Su Xiaoxiao went to the kitchen to cook while Su Ergou helped her.

When she came out, Su Xiaoxiao saw Father Su sitting in the backyard with a log.

Su Xiaoxiao walked over and looked at his hand. “Your hand is injured. Didn't I tell you not to use your right hand anymore?”

Father Su smiled and said, “It won't take much effort. I know what to do. Take it easy!”

“What did you make?” Su Xiaoxiao asked.

Father Su sighed and said, “I've been busy with outside matters these past two days and neglected the family. You've worked hard. Your uncle and aunt came to visit, and my son-in-law also told me about it. I've made a walking stick for my son-in-law. It'll be convenient for him to move in the future.”

Wait.

It seemed to be the case from the beginning. Why did it suddenly change from her being wronged to making a walking stick for Wei Ting?

How did his mind make that leap?

“Dad! Sister! The food is ready! You can eat now!”

Su Ergou barked.

“Let's go eat.” Father Su placed the half-made walking stick aside and brought his chubby daughter into the central room.

Wei Ting had already been helped out by Su Ergou to sit down.

Su Xiaoxiao rejected the idea that someone could bask in her glory even while lying down.

However, when she thought of how she had suffocated him this morning, she silently endured it.

She quietly looked at Wei Ting, who was opposite her. Wei Ting slowly picked up his bowl and chopsticks, his expression unchanged.

It was as if nothing awkward had happened. Very good, everyone chose to feign amnesia together.

“Eh, daughter, what dish is this?” Father Su looked at the unfamiliar dish on the table. It looked like pork belly, but it was different from her usual cooking.

“It's braised pork with preserved vegetables,” Su Xiaoxiao said. “It's made of pork belly.”

She had planned to cook this dish yesterday, but Father Su hadn't returned, so Su Xiaoxiao left it for today.

Coincidentally, she bought bean pods today.

“It's not spicy, right?” Father Su asked.

“It's not spicy,” Su Xiaoxiao said.

Hearing that it was not spicy, Father Su picked up a piece for the three little ones.

The three of them used their chopsticks to poke at the meat. Wei Ting frowned.

Father Su said to his son-in-law, “This is how children learn to eat. You have to let them do it themselves.”

Wei Ting thought about how before he came to the Su family, the three little brats had indeed been fed by others. After coming here, although they ate miserably, they did it themselves.

Moreover, their appetites had increased a lot.

The braised pork with preserved vegetables was very tender, it was fatty, but not greasy. It melted with a sip. The taste of the preserved vegetables was stewed in it, and the preserved vegetables soaked in gravy and bean paste had a different oily flavor.

The three little ones ate until their mouths were oily.

Wei Ting usually did not like greasy things, but he could not help but eat a few pieces.

The family ate their fill.

Su Ergou and the three little ones lay on the chair to rest their stomachs.

Father Su sighed. “Daughter, have you realized that ever since our son-in-law came to our house, our family's days have improved a lot? In the past, we didn't see meat twice in a month, but recently, we can eat meat every meal.”

Was that Wei Ting's credit? It was hers! She had transmigrated!

Su Xiaoxiao was so angry that she glanced at him coldly.

…Sleeping with him once was not enough. It would take at least two times to recover her losses!

Wei Ting looked at Su Xiaoxiao, who was about to explode from anger, and smiled. He said to Su Cheng, “Dad is right. I bring good luck to my wife.”

Su Xiaoxiao tore the bamboo leaves!

Three times!

—

In the afternoon, Su Cheng continued to make a walking stick for Wei Ting while Su Ergou took care of the children.

Su Xiaoxiao went to her own field.

What she said in front of Father Su was that when Wei Ting recovered, she would let Wei Ting farm. That was just a saying. Wei Ting would leave after recovering.

It was December now. After being here for so long, she had almost figured out the climate here.

Xinghua Town was located in the middle of the Great Zhou Dynasty, slightly north. The four seasons were clear, and it would snow in winter. It was not as cold as the north.

“Oh, it's somewhat similar to the climate in the middle and lower reaches of the Yangtze River in my previous life. What crops are suitable for planting in this climate?”

There was a hierarchy of knowledge and specialization. In her previous life, she had become independent early and learned culinary skills. However, she was really ignorant about farming.

“Wait, let's not worry about whether I know how to plant it or not. I seem to have forgotten where my home is.”

Su Xiaoxiao stood in front of the field in a daze, doubting her life like a lost little fat penguin.

“Y-Yaya?”

A bewildered voice came from behind.

Su Xiaoxiao turned around. It was Old Li and his wife, Madam Qian.

The two of them, one carrying a hoe and the other carrying a basket, were probably here to work in the field.

“Grandpa Li, Auntie Qian,” Su Xiaoxiao greeted.

Old Li asked, “What are you doing here?”

Su Xiaoxiao scratched her head. “I want to go to my family's land to take a look. I've forgotten where it is.”

Old Li was amused by her silly look. “I'll bring you there.”

Madam Qian seemed to want to stop him, but Old Li had already led Su Xiaoxiao forward. She could only accept her fate and follow.

“This is your land.”

Old Li pointed at an overgrown field.

The Su family's two acres of land had been deserted for many years and was no longer in good shape. Logically speaking, if the land was ruined like this, it would be taken back by the village.

However, who would dare to take the land of the Su family's three tyrants?

“Daya, do you want to farm?” Old Li asked.

Su Xiaoxiao nodded. “I want to plant some vegetables so that I don't have to go to town to buy vegetables in the future.”

Old Li said, “What do you want to eat? Come to my house to pick it.”

Madam Qian glared at her man!

Fatty Su could eat so much. If she were to pluck it, all the leaves in the ground would be gone!

“I still have to plant the land too,” Su Xiaoxiao said.

Old Li said, “The land is so desolate that you have to replant it. Moreover, even if you plant it now, it will take a few months to harvest.”

Su Xiaoxiao paused. “Then I'll go to your house to pick vegetables first. I can also see what vegetables there are.”

Old Li said, “What do you want to plant? I'll give you the seeds and seedlings. If you don't know how to plant them, let your Auntie Qian teach you.”

Madam Qian turned her face away. She would not teach Fat Lass Su how to farm!

Chapter 28

There were many vegetables planted in Old Li's vegetable field. Su Xiaoxiao picked some radishes, cabbages, and garlic sprouts.

“This is…” Su Xiaoxiao looked at the green vegetables and asked.

Old Li said, “The smell of this is a little strong. Many people aren't used to it.”

Wasn't this coriander from her previous life?

Coriander was a good thing. It contained rich vitamins, trace elements, and many minerals. It could be used to alleviate rashes and reduce digestion. It was very suitable for eating in winter.

Su Xiaoxiao picked some coriander and filled Old Li's basket.

She went out to look at the land and did not bring anything.

When Madam Qian saw Fat Lass Su pick so many vegetables, her face turned green with pain.

Old Li said to Su Xiaoxiao, “You don't sell vegetables. You only have a few people to eat at home. Actually, you don't need so much land. Half an acre is enough. The remaining acre and a half can be used to grow some food.”

Su Xiaoxiao listened to Old Li.

She naturally wouldn't waste any land. However, compared to food, she wanted to plant sugarcane more.

Sugar cane could be used to make sugar. The cost of making pancakes could be reduced greatly, and the profit margin would be greater.

As for selling candy, she had no intention of doing that for the time being.

In ancient times, sugar and salt were rare items. Behind them was a huge business chain. Once she disturbed the sugar market with a low price, she would definitely become a target.

She wouldn't do that until she was strong enough.

“Grandpa Li, Auntie Qian, I'll go back first.”

“Go,” Old Li said.

Madam Qian secretly rolled her eyes.

Amused, Su Xiaoxiao left the vegetable field with the basket.

She really wasn't angry.

When they reached home, Su Xiaoxiao took out the vegetables and returned the basket to Old Li and his wife.

The basket was heavy and covered with a clean cotton cloth.

After she left, Madam Qian opened it and saw six pancakes and two pieces of meat!

Madam Qian gasped!

–

Su Cheng finished making the walking stick and called Wei Ting over to test it in the backyard.

Father Su was really good to his son-in-law. It was anyone's guess if Daddy Su would vomit blood the day he left.

Su Ergou went to the village entrance to fetch water.

The three little ones did not take an afternoon nap. They climbed out of bed and went next door.

They came to the window of the second room.

Niu Dan did not eat sugar eggs today. His grandfather, Liu Shan, went to the back village for a meal yesterday and brought him half a bowl of peanuts and a piece of candy.

He ate a peanut and licked the candy.

“Do you know what this is?”

He tempted the three little ones.

“Peanuts!” He raised the half-licked candy bar again. “Candy!”

“I'm not giving it to you! You'll die of hunger! Go ahead!”

The three little ones blinked and walked away.

“Hmph!” Niu Dan snorted and continued to lick the candy.

Suddenly, the three little ones returned.

Everyone had a string of shiny candied hawthorns in their hands.

Seeing the candied hawthorn, Niu Dan's eyes widened!

The three little ones began to lick the candied hawthorn. After licking for a while, they were not satisfied and started to gnaw with their little teeth.

Niu Dan immediately felt that the candy in his hand was no longer fragrant!

After the three of them had enough of the candied haws, they went home and took a bowl of fried sesame balls and fried oil pastry. They ate one at a time before Niu Dan cried from hunger!

—

Su Xiaoxiao sat behind the kitchen and sharpened her knife. Big Wu's stern voice came from the kitchen next door.

“Can't you eat enough yourself? You gp to your parents' house every other day to pass them things from our family! Is this how you perform your duty as a wife? You can't even give birth to a child! You're all money-losing goods!”

“Eat, eat, eat! All you think about is eating!”

In the beginning, she was scolding Little Wu. In the end, she was probably scolding Little Wu's two daughters.

Her two daughters were crying from the scolding.

“Cry, cry, cry! Are you mourning?” Big Wu raised her hand impatiently and slapped her two granddaughters a few times.

Little Wu blocked it with her body and suffered a few blows.

Niu Dan in the front room also cried. It was a real mourning level.

Niu Dan's expression changed. “What's wrong?”

Big Wu couldn't be bothered to teach Little Wu and her daughters a lesson. She hurriedly went to the front room to coax her precious grandson.

Su Xiaoxiao continued to sharpen her knife.

About half an hour later, Little Wu opened the back door of the kitchen, planning to come out for some air.

She caught a glimpse of Su Xiaoxiao sharpening her knife in the snow.

Perhaps she was worried that Su Xiaoxiao would hear the commotion just now, she felt a little awkward.

Su Xiaoxiao placed a few catties of pork ribs and some vegetables that she had just picked from the ground.

Little Wu walked forward silently and squatted down to help Su Xiaoxiao pick vegetables.

Su Xiaoxiao didn't ask what had happened to Little Wu, nor did she reject her help. However, after Little Wu finished picking the vegetables and washing her ribs, she went into the house and gave her 20 copper coins.

Little Wu was stunned.

“You seem to need this more than food.”

Little Wu's eyes turned hot.

Her mother was sick. She wanted to take a few eggs back to visit her mother, but she was discovered by her mother-in-law, Big Wu, and was scolded.

She had been like this for so many years and was already numb to it. However, for some reason, the moment Su Xiaoxiao handed her the copper coins, an indescribable grievance surged in her heart.

She whispered, “I don't go to my parents' house every other day to pass them things.”

Su Xiaoxiao nodded. “I know.”

Little Wu's tears fell.

The grievances that had accumulated for many years fermented in Su Xiaoxiao's trust until they completely erupted.

—

The three little ones had peed too much last night and wet two mattresses. Coupled with the fact that it was snowing and there was no sun, the mattresses were still wet.

Tonight, Su Ergou could only sleep with Daddy Su.

The three little ones got their wish and got their third free sleep with Su Xiaoxiao.

The three little ones waved goodbye to their father and carried the pillow to Su Xiaoxiao's house.

Su Xiaoxiao was about to rest when Su Ergou asked at the door, “Sister, are you asleep?”

“No, come in,” Su Xiaoxiao said.

Su Ergou was here to ask about tomorrow's business. “Sister, are we going to set up a stall in Jin Ji or the academy?”

Su Xiaoxiao thought seriously and said, “Jin Ji.”

Su Ergou: “Ah.”

Su Xiaoxiao smiled at him. “You want to go to the academy?”

Su Ergou said, “There are many students in the academy. They will definitely sell more than at the entrance of Jin Ji!”

Su Xiaoxiao smiled. “That's not necessarily true.”

Jin Ji was surrounded by high-quality customers. They could afford it and it would save the siblings time.

Su Ergou continued, “Then are we giving up on the academy's business?”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “No, it's just that the sales model has to change.”

Thanks to her CEO mother in her previous life, she still had some business ideals in her mind.

Su Xiaoxiao said to Su Ergou, “It's late. Go to sleep.”

Su Ergou nodded. “Okay, remember to wake me up tomorrow.”

Su Xiaoxiao was amused. “I will.”

Why did she feel that her silly brother was more enthusiastic about selling pancakes than extorting money?

Su Ergou and the others went out and another head popped in. “Sister, you can make a kind of pancake called Ergou pancake in the future!”

Su Xiaoxiao was speechless.

Chapter 29

While sleeping, Su Xiaoxiao realized something interesting. Including tonight, the three little ones had slept with her for three nights.

The first night, it was Dahu who slept next to her. The second night, it was Erhu. Tonight, it became Xiaohu.

The three children actually knew how to take turns.

Dahu and Erhu had already fallen asleep. Xiaohu still tried to open his eyes wide and move his little head left and right.

Su Xiaoxiao asked him, “What's wrong?”

Xiaohu said, “Xiaohu won't sleep.”

He was the youngest. It was not easy for him to be with his mother. He did not want to sleep. He wanted to be awake.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Why aren't you sleeping?”

Xiao Hu stopped answering.

How could Su Xiaoxiao know what he was thinking?

She turned off the light and lay down beside Xiao Hu. She said sternly, “Close your eyes!”

Xiaohu obediently closed his eyes, but he still did not sleep.

“Mother.”

Xiaohu called her.

Su Xiaoxiao pretended to sleep.

Xiaohu stopped calling her after three times. It would be a huge mistake to think that he was finally going to sleep.

A small bump appeared in the blanket of the three little ones.

Soon, the small bump moved towards Su Xiaoxiao.

Xiaohu got under her blanket.

Sleeping with his mother!

Not telling Dahu and Erhu!

Coincidentally, Dahu and Erhu did the same.

—

The first thing Su Xiaoxiao did when she woke up was look for children. There was one at the head of the bed, one at the end of the bed, and one in the corner.

After arranging the three of them, Su Xiaoxiao went to Father Su's room to wake him up.

There were a lot of things to do today, and she couldn't handle it alone.

When Su Ergou came to the kitchen, Little Wu was also there.

He looked startled.

Little Wu hurriedly explained, “I… I have nothing to do. I came over to help.”

Su Ergou looked at his sister, who did not object.

“Oh,” he said and accepted.

At first, Little Wu was a little nervous, but Su Ergou only focused on work and ignored her. She gradually relaxed.

Su Ergou mainly did menial work while Little Wu helped to wash, cut, and knead the vegetables.

She was clean and efficient. Su Xiaoxiao only needed to tell her once before she remembered.

With Little Wu and Su Ergou helping… it was mainly due to Little Wu's help that they completed twice the workload as yesterday.

Su Xiaoxiao was satisfied.

“My mother is awake. I have to go over.” Little Wu kept an eye on her family.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Alright, go first. I'll talk to you about your salary when I come back from town.”

Little Wu shook her head. “You've already given it to me. That's twenty coppers.”

Her husband, Liu Ping, worked hard in town. He could not earn so much even if he worked hard for a day. If he was lucky, he could earn ten to five copper coins. Most of the time, he only earned two meals.

“I'll come back tomorrow morning.”

She turned around and left through the back door of the kitchen. Then, she thought of something and turned back. “You don't need to pay me!”

Su Xiaoxiao burst out laughing. “Okay.”

“I'll take care of the children for you too.”

She sneaked back a second time.

Su Xiaoxiao almost laughed to death at her sneaky actions.

Before leaving, Su Xiaoxiao went to Wei Ting's room. His wound was healing well, and she could remove his stitches tonight.

Then, she left a message for Father Su.

She originally wanted to leave a note, but sadly realized that the family of three was all illiterate.

“I write in simplified Chinese. Father Su would not be able to read it even if he was literate.”

After muttering, she said to Wei Ting, “When my father wakes up, tell him to learn how to grow vegetables from Auntie Qian.”

—

Su Xiaoxiao first went to the market with Su Ergou.

The young butcher had just set up his stall.

He had been scammed and was in a bad mood, but life had to continue.

Su Xiaoxiao came to the stall and asked him with a smile, “Have you thought about it? Are you going to split the profits with me or are you going to supply me?”

Butcher looked at this little fat village girl who had ruined him and turned his face away sadly. “Split the accounts.”

If they lost money this way, it would be on her. If they earned money, he would have a share.

Su Xiaoxiao smiled. “Okay.”

The butcher frowned at her. “You're not surprised at all. You knew I would choose to split the profits?”

Su Xiaoxiao spread her hands. “Because there's no need to take the risk. You'll have a share if we earn, and I'll take the loss.”

“But I want three-seven,” Butcher said.

“Twenty-eight! Also, sell me half of your meat at half price!”

“Half? That's too much!”

“Just treat it as a wholesale price. The goods I offer can be sold for a price. Do the math and see if you can earn it back!”

The butcher finally agreed.

Su Xiaoxiao smiled. “In that case, let's try it out for a day. Happy cooperation.”

—

After leaving two big jars, Su Xiaoxiao went to Jin Ji with Su Ergou.

Although they had only set up their business for two days, news of Su Xiaoxiao's Wife Cake had already spread in Jin Ji.

“Aiya, it's not that I want to say this, but can't you change your pastries? They're so expensive, and they're always the same. A small village girl's pastries are better than yours! The name is also novel. It's called… Wife Cake!”

The complainant was a regular customer of Jin Ji.

When Manager Sun heard this, he didn't mind. “They went to buy it because that girl saved a child in Jin Ji. How can her pancakes be delicious?”

The head chef of Jin Ji had retired from the capital and had entered the palace to be a royal chef in his early years!

Would he lose to a little village girl?

“Yo, yo, yo, here comes the Wife Cake!”

The old customer said without hesitation, “Girl! Leave a few for me!”

“Wife cake, tsk, tacky!” Manager Sun went to the kitchen coldly.

A few chefs were gathered together to taste the pancakes. They had to taste the pancakes that they sold every day. They would only sell them after they passed the taste test. Otherwise, they would rather throw them away than sell them to customers.

They had recently been trying to improve their own shortbread.

“It smells so good.” Manager Sun walked forward and looked at the pancake on the table. “Is it new? It seems different from the previous formula.”

The cooks said nothing.

Manager Sun took a bite and his eyes lit up. “It's soft and sweet. It's much better than the ones we made before! Who made it?”

The cooks looked at each other.

One of them mustered his courage and said, “I bought it from outside… It's that little village girl's wife cake.”

Manager Sun was speechless.

—

At the alley near Jin Ji, Su Xiaoxiao finished selling the last Wife Cake on the tray and was about to close the stall.

“Miss, give me two stuffed red beans and a dried plum!”

A young woman came over and said.

Su Xiaoxiao said politely, “Sorry, I sold out today.”

The woman pointed at Su Ergou's basket and said, “Isn't there more inside?”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “These aren't for sale.”

Su Ergou whispered into his sister's ear, “Sister, there's so much left. Why don't you sell it?”

“You'll know in a while.”

An hour later, the two of them stood at the entrance of Wutong Academy.

At this moment, the students had already started their classes. There were not many people outside.

The servant stopped them and asked, “What are you doing?”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “I'm looking for Shen Chuan.”

Chapter 30

“Who are you?” the servant asked.

“Shen Chuan asked us to come over,” Su Xiaoxiao said.

The servant looked at the two of them suspiciously. One was a fat village girl and the other was a poor boy. No matter how he looked at it, they did not seem to be able to get along with Young Master Shen.

“That's right,” Su Ergou said. “He even said that this academy is owned by his family!”

The Wutong Academy was opened by the Shen family. It was no secret that the only son of the Shen family was called Shen Chuan.

The servant still did not believe the two of them.

“Sister,” Su Ergou said, “Could that Shen Chuan be lying to us? He asked us to set up a stall here, but we couldn't even see him.”

“Can we set up a stall here?” he asked the manservant.

“No,” the servant refused.

Su Ergou said to Su Xiaoxiao, “Sister, look!”

Su Xiaoxiao pondered for a moment. “When we see Shen Chuan, we'll ask him what's going on.”

“Still want to see him?” Su Ergou curled his lips and muttered, “We can't even enter the door!”

Su Xiaoxiao turned around. “Shall we go through the small door?”

Su Ergou was stunned. “What?”

Fifteen minutes later, the two of them arrived at the back door of the Wutong Academy.

This place was much quieter than the front door. The guard was an old man.

The old man was sitting on a chair and looked like he was about to fall asleep. It was a skill to fall asleep in the cold wind in the middle of winter.

Su Ergou whispered, “Sister, what if this person doesn't let us in?”

“Let's try it first.”

Su Xiaoxiao prepared for the worst. If she couldn't go in the back door, she would wait for the students at the academy to finish school.

“Grandpa, I'm looking for Shen Chuan,” Su Xiaoxiao said to the old man.

The old man opened one of his eyelids and glanced at her lazily before closing his eyes again.

‘What does that mean?'

“Can I go in?”

The old man continued to rest.

“If you don't say anything, I'll go in.”

Su Xiaoxiao paused and said to Su Ergou, “Go to the front door and wait. If Shen Chuan comes out from there, tell him that I've gone in to look for him.”

Su Ergou said, “Okay, Sister!”

Su Xiaoxiao entered the academy.

The Wutong Academy was very big, and she actually did not know where Shen Chuan was.

A student in a white school uniform brushed past her.

She stopped him. “Young Master, have you seen Shen Chuan?”

The other party looked at her strangely. It was unknown if he was wondering why such a chubby girl existed in this world or why this fat girl came to look for Shen Chuan.

Su Xiaoxiao smiled. “He asked me to sell him something. I'm here to deliver it.”

“I see.” The other party nodded and pointed southeast. “He should be in class. If you want to send something, send it to that courtyard.”

“Thank you very much.”

Su Xiaoxiao thanked him and walked towards the courtyard.

Along the way, she did not forget to admire the scenery.

So this was the ancient academy. It was not as exquisite and glamorous as in movies. It was just an ordinary house.

From time to time, the voices of the teachers and the scholars could be heard. Su Xiaoxiao listened and unknowingly arrived at the courtyard.

A servant was sweeping the snow. When he saw a fat village girl, he couldn't help but pause.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “I'm looking for Shen Chuan.”

The servant looked at her deeply and did not say anything. He turned around and brought her into the courtyard.

He gestured for Su Xiaoxiao to wait in the room while he went out to do something.

Su Xiaoxiao placed the basket on the table and sat on the chair for a while, thinking about asking the servants when Shen Chuan would come.

When she left the house, it was snowing again. Large patches of snow fell silently like goose feathers.

“Eh? Where's that person? Why did he disappear?”

Su Xiaoxiao could only return to the room to wait.

When he passed by the gate in the second courtyard, a man coughed violently from a room in the back.

“Shen Chuan, is that you?”

She asked.

The coughing became worse, accompanied by dry retching, the kind that almost coughed out the lungs.

Su Xiaoxiao frowned and quickly went to the room.

It was not Shen Chuan.

It was a young man in his early twenties. He was half lying on the edge of the bed, coughing until he was sweating and his blood was surging. His entire face was red.

Su Xiaoxiao hurried to the bed and helped him sit up. Her legs hung under the bed.

The man's temperature was high, and Su Xiaoxiao could feel a burning sensation in her palm. This was much hotter than Wei Ting's.

Su Xiaoxiao didn't bring a first-aid bag out, so she could only use her hand to measure his forehead temperature.

“I'm afraid your fever has reached 40 degrees.” Su Xiaoxiao unbuttoned his shirt and leaned over to listen to his heart. “Take a deep breath. Vomit when I ask you to.”

The man's reaction was very poor and he couldn't understand what Su Xiaoxiao said.

Su Xiaoxiao frowned and took his pulse again.

Su Xiaoxiao made a diagnosis based on his breathing sounds, symptoms, and pulse. The preliminary diagnosis was acute pneumonia.

In ancient times when even a cold could kill, pneumonia was definitely a serious illness. He had been infected for a few days and had not received timely and effective treatment, causing his condition to worsen.

If this continued, there was no guarantee that it would not cause complications like pleurisy. In serious cases, it might even endanger his life.

However, she did not have any medicine to treat pneumonia.

As she was thinking, she suddenly felt her vision flash.

She subconsciously closed her eyes. When she opened them again, she saw the base's pharmacy.

She was standing in the internal medicine area. The medicine cabinet in front of her was filled with an entire row of antibiotics and anti-viral medicine. Surprisingly, these were just the medicine required to treat acute pneumonia.

Su Xiaoxiao started to get the medicine.

This time, she didn't see an empty first aid kit, but she had brought a small basket.

“Oh right, there's also Father Su's medicine!”

She quickly walked towards the surgical area, but before she could carefully screen, her vision flashed again and she left the pharmacy.

She looked down at the bottle of bone-strengthening pills she had grabbed in a hurry and confirmed that she had really entered.

She checked her little basket again.

The medicine was all there. Therefore, she obtained those pills.

But why couldn't she enter last time? Was there some special trigger condition?

Also, she came out before she finished taking it. Was there a time limit?

Su Xiaoxiao couldn't figure it out, so she stopped thinking about it.

She took out a thermometer and took his temperature. His fever had indeed reached forty degrees.

Su Xiaoxiao injected a dose of antipyretic needles into his muscles and gave him a skin test for antibiotics.

The skin test went well so she quickly fed him the medicine.

Chapter 31

There was a little too much medicine, and he vomited after consumption, making him look very pathetic.

This was what the man's personal guard saw when he entered the house.

The guard's expression changed as he shouted and walked forward. “What are you doing? Let go of my young master!”

He had already finished the anti-inflammatory medicine and anti-viral medicine. Su Xiaoxiao was about to feed him cough syrup.

She shoved the last spoonful into his mouth before the guard could rush over.

Then, she dodged.

The guard missed.

Without Su Xiaoxiao's support, the man fell onto the bed.

The attendant's expression changed again. He couldn't be bothered to grab Su Xiaoxiao and turned to help the man lie down.

“Young Master! Young Master!”

The fever medicine was effective. The man began to sweat and his body was sticky.

The guard was even more flustered. Why was he sweating like this?

“Young Master… Young Master, what's wrong? Young Master, don't scare me! Young Master… Young Master…”

“What happened?”

Dean Shen walked in hurriedly.

He had just finished class when he heard Chang Ping's wail.

Changping was crying on the man's body. Hearing this, he turned his head and looked at Dean Shen with snot and tears. “Dean… My young master has been harmed…”

Dean Shen's expression changed. “Who… harmed your young master?”

Changping raised his hand and pointed at Su Xiaoxiao, who was trying her best to reduce her presence. “It's her!”

“I didn't,” Su Xiaoxiao said seriously.

Changping cried, “I saw everything! Don't deny it! My young master was fine just now… It was you… You poisoned my young master!”

Only then did Dean Shen notice that there was a little fat girl in the house. She looked like a girl from a village.

Although their academy was not an important place in the government office, they would not let anyone in casually, let alone this girl entering his courtyard.

If something happened to Young Master because of his negligence, he would be blamed even if he died ten thousand times!

“Who are you? How did you get in?” he asked coldly.

Su Xiaoxiao spread her hands. “I just came in.”

“Impossible!” Dean Shen rejected him. “You're not a student of the academy, nor are you a servant of the academy. The servant guarding the door would not let you in.”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “I came in the back door.”

Dean Shen said without thinking, “That's even more impossible!”

That old man had a worse temper than anyone else. Why would he let a little village girl enter the academy for no reason?

Dean Shen said sternly, “You'd better tell me the truth. Otherwise, I can only send you to the government office!”

The guard choked and roared, “You harmed my young master! You're so ruthless! My young master has no grudge against you! Why did you harm my young master? Tell me! Who sent you!”

Su Xiaoxiao sighed helplessly. “I didn't harm your young master. I was saving him just now. He's coughing so hard that he can't breathe. His high fever is serious. If he isn't treated in time, he'll be in danger. If you don't believe me, touch him. Is his fever gone?”

Chang Ping touched his young master's forehead.

It was really not that hot anymore.

No, when a person died, their corpse would turn cold.

This little fatty had harmed his young master!

“Stop quibbling! Someone, tie her up!”

“Don't tie her! Don't tie her! Don't tie her!”

Shen Chuan rushed in anxiously and stood in front of Su Xiaoxiao, panting. “Listen to me, there must be some misunderstanding…”

Su Xiaoxiao tilted her head and looked at him. “Oh, Shen Chuan?”

Shen Chuan turned around and smiled awkwardly. “Miss Su.”

Dean Shen frowned. “Shen Chuan! What are you doing!”

Shen Chuan explained, “Dad! I asked someone to let her in! I've already told Uncle Qiu and the servants in the courtyard!”

Su Xiaoxiao nodded. No wonder it went so smoothly.

Changping choked in disbelief. “Young Master Shen, my young master has no grudge against you…”

Su Xiaoxiao thought, Here we go again! Can't this guard say something else for a change?

Shen Chuan said firmly, “I won't harm your young master, and neither will Miss Su. She said that she was saving your young master just now. Believe her! She knows medicine!”

As he spoke, he looked into his father's eyes with certainty. “Dad, remember the girl I told you about who saved the choking child in Jin Ji? It's her!”

When Dean Shen heard his son's explanation, his expression turned even colder. “So you found a girl from the countryside to treat Young Master? Do you still remember my warning? What nonsense!”

“I…” Shen Chuan hesitated.

He had not invited Miss Su to treat her. He had not had the chance to mention this to her.

However, explaining this now seemed a little…

Dean Shen said in a low voice, “Shen Chuan! Move aside!”

The servant outside the door was already in position, ready to pounce on the little fat village girl at any time.

Shen Chuan panicked. “Dad, can you believe me for once…”

Dean Shen placed his hands behind his back and said seriously, “I'll say it one last time! Move aside! Otherwise, I'll tie you up and send you to the government office!”

Shen Chuan snorted gloomily. “You even said that I wasn't picked up from the streets by you. How can you treat your own son like this?”

Dean Shen was so angry that the corners of his mouth twitched.

Shen Chuan casually glanced at the door. “Young Master Jing! You're here!”

The servant outside the door hurriedly bowed.

Dean Shen subconsciously turned his head.

“Miss Su, sorry!”

Shen Chuan grabbed Su Xiaoxiao's wrist and rushed out the door.

“Unfilial son!”

Dean Shen was furious.

Shen Chuan pulled Su Xiaoxiao and ran away. However, no one expected him to retreat in panic.

In front of him were a burly guard and a young man in embroidered clothes with a nine-section whip.

The young man's eyes were cold and his aura was powerful.

He was only sixteen or seventeen years old, but he had a murderous aura.

It was as if he had killed someone and drunk blood.

The moment Shen Chuan saw the other party, he completely gave up resisting.

Only one thought floated through his mind.

It was over. It was over.

His jinxed mouth really brought Young Master Jing here.

It seemed that he and Miss Su were destined to not escape today.

Chapter 32

Dean Shen was shocked to see the young man in embroidered clothes at the door.

This brat was really Young Master Jing.

Young Master Jing was not easy to get along with. He looked young but was merciless.

Fortunately, this kid didn't really escape. He hoped that Young Master Jing could forgive him for his sake!

“Young Master Jing-you came back at the right time-Young Master has no grudges with anyone, but someone wants to harm Young Master-”

Changping began to mourn again.

The young man in embroidered clothes quickly swept his gaze across the scene and paused on his unconscious cousin for a moment before turning to look at the stranger who had appeared in the room.

“Let go!”

Dean Shen scolded in a low voice.

Shen Chuan was so frightened that he forgot that he was still holding Su Xiaoxiao's fat wrist.

Su Xiaoxiao calmly moved her hand away.

Dean Shen hurriedly said, “Young Master Jing, listen to me. My son didn't mean-”

Before he could finish, he was interrupted by Changping's cries. “She drugged Young Master and almost killed him… Your son let her in… He even said that it wasn't intentional…”

“This…” Dean Shen's scalp went numb.

There was a big misunderstanding. How should he protect his son?

At this moment, the manager of Rongen Hall followed over with another doctor surnamed Yang.

The two of them were originally with the young man in embroidered clothes, but the young man suddenly quickened his pace. The two of them could not catch up, so they fell behind by a few steps.

However, what did that servant say just now?

Did someone drug a noble?

The shopkeeper of Rongen Hall crossed the threshold and recognized the little fat village girl in the room at a glance.

“It's you!”

“Shopkeeper Cao, do you know her?” Dean Shen asked.

Manager Cao looked at Dean Shen. “She's a little liar. The last time she came to Rongen Hall to cheat, I discovered her in time and chased her out! Dean Shen, why is she here? The person who drugged the noble just now… Could it be her?”

Dean Shen's expression gave Manager Cao an answer.

Manager Cao clenched his fists and pointed at Su Xiaoxiao's nose. “I know! No wonder there's no improvement in the noble's illness. It's because of you!”

Dean Shen was unhappy to hear this.

Doctor Dong had treated Young Master a few days ago. Did Manager Cao mean that this girl had come several times? Was their academy so careless?

Or was it his son who let this girl over every day to harm Young Master?

Shen Chuan chuckled and said, “Cao, don't slander others! Why are you blaming Miss Su for your lack of medical skills? Miss Su just arrived today!”

This time, Dean Shen stood on his son's side.

The young man in embroidered clothes moved his feet.

He did not speak. It was just a slight movement, but it deterred everyone.

The house fell silent.

Shen Chuan boldly glanced at him and saw him walking towards him. Shen Chuan's breathing paused, and his heart was in his throat.

The young man stopped in front of him.

He was so nervous he couldn't breathe.

“Why are you here?” the young man in brocade asked.

“I, I, I…” Shen Chuan stammered, not knowing how to answer.

“I'm looking for someone,” Su Xiaoxiao said.

Shen Chuan was stunned. Only then did he realize that the young man was talking to Miss Su.

“What did you give my cousin?” the young man in embroidered clothes continued.

“Medicine,” Su Xiaoxiao replied.

“You know medicine?”

“I know a thing or two.”

“What illness does my cousin have?”

“Lung disease.”

“Can you cure it?”

“I can.”

“What are the chances?”

“If the patient has no hidden illness, the chances are very high.”

“Okay, you treat him.”

Everyone was shocked!

Su Xiaoxiao continued, “I don't want anyone to disturb me when I'm doing my treatment.”

Especially the one called Changping. He was too noisy.

The young man in embroidered clothes said, “Sure.”

“No onlookers.”

“Sure.”

“The consultation fee is very expensive.”

“That's fine.”

Shopkeeper Cao's expression turned ugly. “Young Master Jing! Don't be deceived! She's a liar!”

Shen Chuan chuckled. “You're the liar! You took so much money from Young Master Jing, but you treated him until he was half-dead! What right do you have to call others liars!”

“You!” Shopkeeper Cao choked.

He turned to look at the young man in embroidered clothes. “Young Master Jing, Doctor Yang is a famous doctor I invited from the city. Are you sure you want a little girl from the countryside to treat the noble in his place? I'll be blunt first. If this girl treats the noble, our Rongen Hall won't clean up her mess! It'll be too late for her to come to our Rongen Hall then!”

The young man in embroidered clothes said expressionlessly, “Bai Ze, send the guest away.”

“Yes!”

The guard called Bai Ze looked at Manager Cao and the others coldly. “Please.”

“Hmph!” Shopkeeper Cao flicked his sleeves and left without looking back.

Dean Shen opened his mouth. “Young Master Jing, this is a serious matter. Please think twice.”

The young man in embroidered clothes did not answer him. Instead, he said, “With Cousin's current situation, I'm afraid I'll have to trouble Dean Shen for a few more days.”

Dean Shen understood that he had made up his mind. He cupped his hands and said, “It's my honor.”

After leaving the house, Dean Shen frowned and looked at Shen Chuan. “Do you know what's going on? Young Master Jing seems to know that village girl.”

Shen Chuan thought for a moment. “Dad, now that you mention it, I remember that Young Master Jing was also in Jin Ji that day! He should have seen Miss Su!”

The scene that day was a pity. He actually didn't witness Su Xiaoxiao saving someone with his own eyes. He went to the opposite side to look for her and only saw a fat village girl coming out of Jin Ji. Not long after, Young Master Jing came out.

Everyone was talking about how the young man in embroidered clothes had knocked down a crazy horse and how the fat village girl had saved the child who had choked on food.

Inside the house, the young man in embroidered clothes said to Changping, “You can leave.”

Changping did not dare to disobey the brocade-robed youth and obediently retreated.

The young man looked at Su Xiaoxiao. “Miss Su?”

He had heard Shen Chuan call her that.

Su Xiaoxiao nodded and turned to look at him. “Young Master Jing?”

She had also heard others call him that.

“Jingyi,” he said.

“Miss Su,” she said.

Some things happened by chance. He wanted to avoid it, but it seemed to be destined. The heavens had made a decision for him.

“I'll pay you for the last consultation fee.” He was talking about her helping him reattach his dislocated arm.

Su Xiaoxiao didn't refuse.

Although she didn't take it to heart, to these big shots, it was the hardest to return a favor. It was better to give the other party a consultation fee in the form of two silver ingots.

“I'll leave my cousin's illness to you.”

“I'll do my best.”

Su Xiaoxiao and Jing Yi agreed to come back tomorrow. After she left with the basket, Jing Yi called Bai Ze over.

“Check her identity.”

“Yes.”

Chapter 33

Su Xiaoxiao went to the outer courtyard to find Shen Chuan and handed him the medicine that the patient needed to take. She carefully instructed him on the dosage and usage.

“I can't trust others, so I can only ask you. Also, this is a secret recipe passed down by my ancestors. Remember to keep it a secret for me.”

“Don't worry, I will.”

Shen Chuan accepted the strange medicine.

“In return, these pancakes are for you.” Su Xiaoxiao took out 50 Wife Cakes wrapped in bamboo leaves from her basket.

“Th-there's so much?” Shen Chuan was stunned. “I can't finish it!”

Su Xiaoxiao smiled. “If you can't finish it, you can give them to your classmates to try. It's necessary to build a good relationship with your classmates.”

Actually, it was meant to be given to the students of the academy to taste, but now that there was a good opportunity to present it as a favor, why not go with the flow?

In her previous life, she had always disliked her mother's way of doing things as a businesswoman who was too tactful. However, when she went from being the eldest daughter of a wealthy family to a village girl who did not have enough to eat, she understood that being a person who did not bow down to others… required capital.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “The academy is too far away. I might not come to the academy to set up a stall in the future.”

“Ah…” Shen Chuan was disappointed.

Su Xiaoxiao smiled. “However, if anyone wants to eat it, you can reserve it in advance. As long as you reach ten, I'll send it to you for free.”

“In addition, we're considered friends. For your sake, I'll only charge nine copper coins for anything that the academy has reserved.”

Wow, he didn't have to go out and the pancakes would be delivered. It was even cheaper by one copper coin. Thinking about it, it was really worth it!

Shen Chuan agreed. “I'll tell them now!”

“Don't forget the Wife Cakes!” Su Xiaoxiao reminded him.

“Oh, right, right, right!” Shen Chuan returned with a smile. He picked up a large pile of biscuits and left.

Su Xiaoxiao went to the main entrance of the academy.

Seeing her come out, the servant who had stopped her was dumbfounded.

“Sister!”

Su Ergou jogged over. “Have you seen Shen Chuan?”

Su Xiaoxiao nodded. “Yes, I gave him the cakes.”

“Then we can go back,” said Su Ergou.

Su Xiaoxiao shook her head. “There's no hurry. Let's go somewhere first.”

The three-day appointment with the physician had arrived. She had to go to the physician's house to get the silver needles and herbs.

“Do you know Spring Willow Lane?” she asked Su Ergou.

“I do. It's not far from the market. From here to Spring Willow Lane, it's about… three to four miles?” Su Ergou was not sensitive to numbers. He had estimated seven to eight miles himself.

In fact, they had walked more than six miles.

Su Xiaoxiao's fat body was covered in sweat.

She had done enough exercise today…

Spring Willow Lane was an old alley. The limestone floor was cracked, and green moss grew in the cracks.

The two of them walked carefully and finally arrived at a door with a wooden sign with the surname Fu.

“Knock,” said Su Xiaoxiao.

“Aye!”

Su Ergou was happy to be ordered around by his fat sister. He raised his hand and knocked on the door.

“Is anyone there?”

He shouted.

After a while, the door was slowly pulled open from the inside.

“Who is it?”

An old voice asked impatiently.

“Eh?”

Su Xiaoxiao blinked and looked at her in surprise.

She also saw Su Xiaoxiao and her eyebrows twitched. “There's no dried plum today!”

That's right, the granny who opened the door for them was the old woman who sold dry goods at the market.

Su Xiaoxiao couldn't help but sigh. The town was so small… She met two “acquaintances” in a day.

“Wait, how did you know about my house?” the old woman asked with a frown.

Su Xiaoxiao looked up at the door plate on the wall. It was definitely someone with the surname Fu.

“Excuse me, is Physician Fu here?” she asked.

The old woman snorted angrily. “Why are you looking for my son?”

“Mother! Is someone here to see me?”

Physician Fu quickly walked over with a medicine pestle. He had been pounding medicine in the backyard.

“Physician Fu.” Su Xiaoxiao greeted him.

“It's Miss Su.” Fu Langzhong's eyes flashed as he said to his mother, “Mother, it's windy outside. Go in and rest. I'll receive her.”

The old woman pointed at Su Xiaoxiao and said to her son, “If she asks you for treatment, you have to charge her double the consultation fee!”

Physician Fu and Su Xiaoxiao were speechless.

Su Xiaoxiao was speechless.

After the old woman entered the house, Physician Fu led Su Xiaoxiao to the side. “My mother doesn't know that I spent money to buy golden sore medicine from you. Don't let it slip. I've prepared the silver needles and herbs. Wait a moment, I'll bring them to you immediately.”

—

While waiting for the medicine, Su Xiaoxiao took a look at the Fu family's medicine cabinet. The medicine inside was not very expensive, but there were no inferior products. From this, it could be seen that Physician Fu had very strict control over the herbs. He would never fake it. It probably ran in the family. The dried plums that the old lady sold her were also of outstanding quality.

“Miss Su, sorry to keep you waiting.”

Fu Lang handed a bag to Su Xiaoxiao. “Check it.”

Su Xiaoxiao counted the herbs without missing a single one.

She paused and suddenly said, “I have a few prescriptions for difficult illnesses. Do you want to learn them?”

Physician Fu's eyes sparkled as he thought of something. His expression was serious. “Do you still need me to buy golden sore medicine?”

Su Xiaoxiao smiled. “No need. I'll give them to you directly.”

Physician Fu had a bad feeling she had something up her sleeves. Soon, he understood that there was no free recipe in the world. There was a price for everything.

—

In Xinghua Village, in Old Li's vegetable field, Madam Qian was teaching someone to farm.

The person he was teaching was none other than the Su family's bully, Su Cheng.

Madam Qian expressed that she was definitely not short-handed.

She had sworn in her heart that she would never teach Fat Lass Su how to farm.

It was Su Cheng, not Fat Lass Su, who was to be taught. Technically, she had kept to her word.

“These are big green onions, these are small green onions, these are chives, and these are the garlic sprouts you usually eat. The leaves of the garlic sprouts are flat, and the big green onions are round.”

Su Cheng looked at the greenery with a dumbfounded expression.

What the hell? Weren't they all green?

“Pick some spring onions for me,” Madam Qian said.

Su Cheng decisively scooped some chives.

Madam Qian was speechless.

The villagers who were watching the show on the field almost laughed out loud.

Su Cheng was a big bully in the village. He used to strut around, but when had he ever made such a fool of himself?

Su Cheng was extremely depressed, but he could not flare up. Since his fat daughter wanted him to learn, he had to learn well.

Of course, he had not come alone to embarrass himself. He had even dragged a scapegoat with him.

“Son-in-law, come!” he said to Wei Ting, who was sitting on the field.

Wei Ting pointed at his injured leg with his walking stick. “Father, it's inconvenient with my leg.”

It was rare for Su Cheng to embarrass his son-in-law. “You don't know how to, right?”

Wei Ting was speechless.

The price of calling him father was a little high.

More and more villagers gathered around. Some of them were here to see the pair make a fool of themselves, while others were purely here to admire Wei Ting's looks.

There was no one else in the world who could be so handsome.

Someone in Old Su's vegetable field also noticed Wei Ting.

“Mother, who is that person?”

Su Jinniang asked.

Madam Fang took a look and said to her daughter, “Little Su's son-in-law!”

Su Jinniang lowered her eyes and whispered, “He's… really good-looking.”

Chapter 34

“Sister, what did that physician say to you in the house?”

On the way back, Su Ergou asked Su Xiaoxiao.

Su Xiaoxiao panted. “Before answering your question, I think we need to find an ox cart.”

She had walked too much today, and her chubby legs could no longer move.

Su Ergou hurriedly said, “Sister, wait for me here. I'll hire an ox cart from the market!”

This was the only way. Her chubby body really could not take it anymore.

Su Ergou went to the market. Old Li did not come to town today. It was an ox cart from another village.

Thankfully, Su Ergou forgot about the topic just now.

It was already afternoon when the two of them returned to the village.

At the entrance of the village, a few villagers were drawing water around the ancient well. When they saw Fat Lass Su and Su Ergou return from outside the village, they didn't make a fuss.

This family seemed to have suddenly changed, especially Fat Lass Su. The villagers had seen her go to the mountain to pick firewood and wash clothes by the river. She even left early and returned late. It was said that she had gone to town to do business.

“I saw her riding Old Li's ox cart last time. She paid Old Li!” Auntie Wu said.

“I saw it too!” The wife of the Sun family said.

Auntie Wu continued, “Hey, what do you think… What's going on? Why did Fat Lass Su suddenly change into a different person? Is she possessed?”

“Nonsense! Have you seen a ghost like this?”

The person who spoke was Madam Zhou. She was in her early thirties and looked to be in her forties.

Auntie Wu: “Then why did she…”

Madam Zhou snorted. “What else can it be? She found a good husband! If I had such a handsome husband, I wouldn't be so lazy!”

The villagers roared with laughter.

Although they were laughing at the Su family, Fatty Su's husband was really handsome. Just looking at him made one's heart melt.

The wife of the Sun family said, “Why is Fatty Su so lucky?”

Madam Zhou said, “What's the use of having a good life? A fresh flower is stuck in cow dung! It's a pity about that young man.”

Everyone agreed deeply.

“I won't allow you to say that about my husband.”

Fatty Su's sinister voice suddenly sounded from behind everyone. She looked up at the sky and sighed.

“If my husband is cow dung, then what are your men? Crap pits?”

Everyone was speechless.

Su Xiaoxiao, who had successfully rebuked the villagers, left in a good mood.

Su Jinniang walked over with a basket.

She greeted the aunties and aunties. Seeing their gloomy faces, she couldn't help but ask, “Did something happen?”

Madam Zhou looked at Fatty Su's departing back and rolled her eyes coldly. “Fatty Su!”

“What happened with Daya?” Su Jinniang asked.

The Su family was a cultured family. Su Jinniang never called her Fatty Su like the others in the village. She always called her Daya.

Madam Zhou cursed, “She doesn't understand human language. She's clearly a piece of cow dung, but she still thinks she's a flower! I wonder how much money she spent to buy such a live-in son-in-law! Doesn't she know that she's worthy of him?”

The wife of the Sun family teased her. “If she's not worthy, is your daughter worthy?”

The villagers roared with laughter again.

Madam Zhou's reputation in the village was not very good either. She loved to stir up trouble, but women also liked to listen to gossip. They despised Madam Zhou but always talked to her.

She spat. “Pfft! How old is my daughter?”

Auntie Wu smiled and said, “She's 14 years old. She can be matchmade. I'm just afraid that the young man won't like your daughter!”

Madam Zhou chuckled and said, “If you don't think highly of me, do you think that I'm interested in your family? In my opinion, let's not fight anymore. In all the villages, only Jinniang is worthy of that young man!”

Su Jinniang blushed. “Auntie Zhou, stop joking. He's Daya's husband. It won't sound good if word gets out.”

Auntie Wu seized the opportunity to retort, “That's right. You're thick-skinned and don't watch your mouth. Don't implicate Jinniang! Jinniang is being matchmade as we speak! Yes, Jin Niang?”

“…Yes,” Su Jinniang replied vaguely.

—

At noon, the three children ate another meal of Daddy Su's dark cuisine. When they saw Su Xiaoxiao return, they pounced into her arms, feeling extremely aggrieved.

“Eh? Where's Grandpa?” she asked.

“Farming,” Dahu said.

“Daddy, farm too,” Erhu added.

“Yes!” Xiaohu added.

Su Xiaoxiao and Su Ergou did not have lunch.

“Ergou, go to the kitchen and start the fire. I'll go back to the house to change my clothes first.”

She was drenched in sweat.

“Alright!”

Su Ergou quickly went to the kitchen to start a fire.

Su Xiaoxiao opened the closet and started to look for clothes. She found that there weren't many sets of clothes to wear. They were either too plain or too beautiful.

It wasn't easy for her to find a suitable size. Just after she changed into it, she bumped into Su Jinniang, who was passing by.

She looked at Su Jinniang in shock, and Su Jinniang happened to be looking at her.

A sentence automatically floated into Su Xiaoxiao's mind-It's not scary to wear the same clothes. Whoever is ugly is the one feeling awkward.

Neither of them spoke.

Su Jinniang left with a cold expression.

Su Ergou came to the central room with a roasted sweet potato. “Sister, Little Wu sent roasted sweet potatoes over. Do you want to fill your stomach first?”

After saying that, he saw Su Xiaoxiao looking at the door.

“Oh, it's Su Jinniang.”

Su Xiaoxiao was puzzled. “Why am I wearing the same clothes as her?”

Su Ergou's expression was indescribable. “Sister, have you forgotten that your clothes were made according to Su Jinniang's?”

“Er… yes?”

She had not inherited this memory.

Su Ergou snorted. “If Su Jinniang wears red, you will also wear red. If Su Jinniang wears green, you will also buy green. You even imitate Su Jinniang's walking posture a hundred times!”

Su Xiaoxiao held her forehead. No wonder Su Jinniang looked at her like that.

Su Ergou said weakly, “Sister, don't emulate her in the future.”

“I won't.” Su Xiaoxiao looked down at her outfit.

However, she did not have any other clothes to wear. This set of clothes… would have to do for now.

Su Xiaoxiao ate half a sweet potato and went to the kitchen to cook.

She cut the sweet potato into slices and wrapped them in the salted batter with green onions. She threw them into the oil pot and fried them until they were golden. The sweetness of the sweet potato and the salty taste of the batter perfectly fused together. The outside was crispy and the inside was tender. The green onion was fragrant and oily.

There was a lot of batter. She fried another plate of crispy meat.

The three little ones stayed by the stove.

Su Xiaoxiao fried it while they ate. Their hands and mouths were busy.

To the children, this was probably the most satisfying moment of the day.

Chapter 35

When it was almost time for dinner, the crowd gradually dispersed. The eldest granddaughter and youngest grandson of Madam Qian came to call her back for dinner.

“Soon,” Madam Qian said to her two grandchildren. She picked up two radishes from the ground that Su Cheng had plucked, pinched the skin, and handed them to the siblings.

The two of them played in the field while eating radishes.

The two of them were attracted to Wei Ting, who was sitting on the field.

Firstly, they had never seen Wei Ting before. Secondly, they had never seen such a good-looking person.

The children's gaze was straightforward and honest. They would take a few more glances if they wanted to.

Wei Ting did not mind and openly let the two children size him up.

The little girl was called Qiu Ni. She was almost seven years old and was shy and obedient. The little boy was called Shuan Zi. He was three years old and was at the age where he could do anything.

Little Shuanzi hugged Wei Ting's walking stick and started playing. When the adults were not paying attention, he dragged his walking stick and ran!

“You little brat!” Madam Qian's expression changed drastically. She raised her fist and jogged toward her grandson.

Little Shuanzi dragged his walking stick and ran a few ridges before entering the Su family's vegetable field.

Madam Fang helped to grab the little bolt and deliberately said fiercely, “You're very naughty! If you run again, I'll catch you and sell you!”

Little Shuanzi struggled to jump down from her hand. He abandoned his walking stick and ran towards Madam Qian fearfully. “Grandma! Granny Fang is selling me!”

Madam Fang was both angry and amused. She shouted at the panting Madam Qian, “Stop running, I'll bring it over to you!”

Then, she said to her daughter, “Jinniang, send the walking stick over.”

Su Jinniang picked up the walking stick on the ground and looked at the Li family's vegetable field not far away. Madam Fang wanted to send it to Madam Qian. After all, it was the Qian family's grandson who caused the trouble, so she was in charge of chasing him back.

But for some reason, Su Jinniang saw the young man on the field at first glance.

The young man was wearing the clothes of an ordinary villager. It was an inconspicuous material, but he sat there with a tall figure and long legs, emitting a quiet and special aura.

His facial features were exquisite and his side profile was perfect. Su Jinniang had never seen such a good-looking man.

She did not know why he used a walking stick.

“What are you waiting for? Go!” Madam Fang urged.

Su Jinniang silently took her walking stick to Old Li's vegetable field, but she did not hand it to Madam Qian. Instead, she returned it to Wei Ting.

“Thank you very much.”

Wei Ting thanked her.

His magnetic voice was cold and distant.

A breeze stirred his aura.

There was no stench of sweat on him, only a faint medicinal fragrance.

Was he injured?

Su Jinniang glanced at his leg.

“Jinniang!” After Madam Qian finished lecturing her grandson, she smiled and said, “You're being matchmade, right? I think the people proposing are about to break through the threshold of your Su family!”

This was the truth. Su Jinniang was the most beautiful and famous girl in the village. There was no man who did not want to marry her.

Su Jinniang felt inexplicably uneasy. “Not yet.”

Qian said, “Daya is the same age as you. She's already married!”

Fatty Su and Su Jinniang had the same surname and were the same age. It was inevitable that they would be compared.

However, Fatty Su had never won since she was young. Her friends in the village were only willing to play with Su Jinniang. Fat Lass Su had always been envious.

Later on, Fat Lass Su started to imitate Su Jinniang. Unfortunately, she was fat and ugly, and could not successfully emulate her.

Madam Qian pulled Su Jinniang's hand and whispered, “Don't worry, if even someone like Fatty Su can find a handsome husband. Yours will only be better!”

Su Jinniang glanced at the handsome man on the field without saying anything.

… .

As the sun set, Su Cheng ended his farming studies for the day.

Looking at the vegetable field that had been ruined by Su Cheng, Madam Qian was furious!

Su Cheng coughed lightly. “I'll come back tomorrow.”

Madam Qian's hair stood on end!

Again?

—

The father-in-law and son-in-law went home.

Su Xiaoxiao sat on a small stool at the door and ate a roasted corn cob while admiring the three children poking an ant nest.

Su Ergou went to fetch water.

“Daughter! I'm back!”

When Su Cheng saw his fat daughter, the haze of being tortured by the green leaves for the entire afternoon was instantly swept away.

“Dad,” Su Xiaoxiao greeted.

“Grandpa!” The three little ones called out obediently.

“Hey!” Su Cheng walked over with a smile and squatted down in front of the three of them. “What are you playing with?”

“Ants,” Dahu said.

“Daya!” Su Cheng turned to look at Su Xiaoxiao. “Help my son-in-law up!”

Su Xiaoxiao glanced at him indifferently. “He has hands and feet. Why do I need to help him?”

“Daya!” Su Cheng had a serious expression.

Su Cheng was always exceptionally principled when it came to treating his son-in-law well.

Su Xiaoxiao reluctantly walked toward Wei Ting. She curled her lips and stretched out two fat fingers.

Wei Ting looked at her disdainful expression and smiled. He pressed his entire body against her arm.

Su Xiaoxiao was caught off guard and was almost crushed by him!

“Wei Ting!” she snapped.

Wei Ting took a deep breath and looked at Su Cheng with a melancholic expression. “Dad, Daya is fierce to me.”

Su Xiaoxiao was speechless.

Su Cheng's face darkened. “Girl, you can't bully my son-in-law!”

Su Xiaoxiao gritted her teeth. Learned how to complain, had he?

Su Xiaoxiao smiled. “Go ahead. Don't worry about breaking my bones. Just don't faint from suffocation like last time.” With that, she did not forget to puff out her chest.

Come on, let's hurt each other!

Wei Ting successfully recalled his experience of fainting in somebody's arms and his expression froze.

“Ha!” Su Xiaoxiao raised her head in victory and helped the blushing Wei Ting into the house.

… .

Dinner was pepper-flavored meat, fried eggs with fat intestines, stir-fried cabbage with cold radish shreds, and a pot of dough soup.

It was a combination of meat and vegetables, nourishing iron and blood, and rich in nutrition.

No matter how hard Wei Ting and Su Xiaoxiao fought, he had to admit that Su Xiaoxiao's culinary skills were superb.

Once he started on the dishes that he had never touched in the past, he could not stop.

Su Ergou finished the last mouthful of rice. “Sister, what are we eating tomorrow?”

Su Xiaoxiao thought for a moment. “Pig brains?”

Wei Ting was shocked.

At night, Su Xiaoxiao came over to remove the stitches for Wei Ting.

The wound healed beautifully, with only a shallow line. Wei Ting had also sutured it before, but it was not as perfect as hers.

Of course, he was a man. He didn't care if there were scars on him. He was just puzzled. How could a countryside girl have such exquisite medical skills?

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Well…”

“There's someone on the roof!”

Wei Ting covered her mouth with one hand and used his other hand to extinguish the candle on the table.

The house fell into darkness.

Su Xiaoxiao squatted on the ground in an extremely strange position between his legs.

Chapter 36

Su Xiaoxiao felt that something was wrong with this posture.

His long legs were on both sides. If she moved forward…

She couldn't go forward.

She wanted to lean back. Wei Ting thought that she could not stabilize herself and was about to fall, so he kindly pulled her back.

Su Xiaoxiao was speechless. She could only squat on the spot.

Wei Ting's attention was mainly on the uninvited guests on the roof, so he did not notice their awkward posture.

His first reaction was that the other party was coming for him and the children.

The children were playing with Su Ergou in the backyard. The entire courtyard was filled with laughter.

He was prepared to kill tonight. To his surprise, the uninvited guest on the roof showed no signs of attacking.

He did not sense any malice from the other party's aura.

The other party only stayed on the roof for a moment before leaving silently.

It was unlikely that the other party was alone and did not attack because he was afraid of him.

The children were right under the other party's nose. If the other party really went to grab the children, he would not be able to save them in time.

So… what was going on?

Who was that man? Was he after him?

Su Xiaoxiao's chubby butt went numb.

She felt terrible. She grabbed Wei Ting's arm and stood up.

At this moment, Wei Ting lowered his head and asked her, “Could it be directed at you… ”

Before he could finish, his lips touched Su Xiaoxiao's forehead.

“You kissed me?”

Su Xiaoxiao's eyes widened.

Wei Ting said without changing his expression, “You bumped into me. You were clearly taking advantage of me.”

Su Xiaoxiao straightened her back and placed her hands on her chubby waist. “My legs are numb, can't I stand up? Who asked you to suddenly lower your head?”

Wei Ting refused to admit that it was his fault. “You took advantage of me and molested me.”

Su Xiaoxiao gritted her teeth.

“I molested you, right?”

She laughed in exasperation.

Wei Ting snorted coldly.

Su Xiaoxiao was furious!

She narrowed her eyes and suddenly bent down to press him against the bedhead. She quickly kissed him on the cheek!

“This is what it means to molest!”

She said domineeringly!

Wei Ting froze.

The atmosphere in the room became strange.

Su Xiaoxiao felt a chill at the back of her head. She blinked and slowly turned around.

Father Su, Ergou, Mrs. Wu, and the three children stood at the door, looking dumbfounded.

Su Xiaoxiao was speechless. This could not be explained clearly.

Su Xiaoxiao calmly stood up and pretended to adjust Wei Ting's clothes. “I already said that your injuries haven't healed. I told you to take it easy.”

Wei Ting was speechless.

Everyone was speechless.

Wasn't she the one who should take it easy?'

Su Xiaoxiao coughed lightly and returned to her room under everyone's incredulous gazes!

After closing the door, she fell onto the bed and covered her head with a pillow!

Ahhh! How embarrassing!

That night, the three little ones came to the east room with pillows again.

“Ergou, didn't you dry your mattress?” Su Xiaoxiao asked Ergou.

Su Ergou said bitterly, “They peed on Dad's bed again!”

“Did you do it on purpose?” Su Xiaoxiao asked seriously.

The three little ones shook their heads cutely.

Su Xiaoxiao doubtfully carried the three little ones into the bed.

—

Before dawn the next day, Little Wu came over to help Su Xiaoxiao as usual.

When she rolled up her sleeves to wash the dried vegetables, Su Xiaoxiao noticed the scar on her arm.

“Your mother-in-law hit you?”

Su Xiaoxiao didn't intend to pretend not to see it this time.

Little Wu rubbed a handful of dried plum vegetables and hesitated, but still said, “Just… yesterday morning.”

Big Wu scolded Little Wu for taking the eggs back to her parents' house and vented her anger on Little Wu's two daughters. Little Wu ended up blocking a few blows for her daughters.

In her memory, this was not the first time Little Wu had been beaten up. However, Little Wu never complained outside. Su Xiaoxiao always heard the sounds of beating and scolding because she lived next door.

Su Xiaoxiao wasn't in a hurry to ask her if she had other plans for the future. Instead, she said, “Can you come over every day in the future?”

Little Wu nodded.

The two families lived next door, and she did not need to travel far. It was not a problem for her to come over every day.

Su Xiaoxiao took out the dough. “I'll pay you monthly.”

Madam Wu hurriedly said, “It's free!”

Su Xiaoxiao said in amusement, “Who would hire someone to do work without paying? I'm not Nero Zhou, the Exploiter.”

“Zhou… what?” Little Wu didn't understand.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “It's very hard for you to come over every morning to help me cook. If the business grows in the future, it will be even harder. In addition, I have to ask you to take care of the three children from time to time. You already have two children, so it's not an easy job.”

Little Wu said, “It's fine. Meizi can help me keep watch.”

Meizi was the eldest daughter of Little Wu. She was eight years old and was very obedient and sensible.

When the three little children ran around the village, it was Meizi who had been following them.

“Besides… Dahu and the others… are quite easy to look after.”

This was not a lie. The three children had a strong sense of crisis. They never went to dangerous places, nor did they leave the sight of Little Wu or Meizi.

They didn't cry or wet their pants. If they were hungry or thirsty, they would say it. If they wanted to relieve themselves, they would say it.

Although they often made the children in the village cry, they never bullied Meizi and her sister.

“Regardless of whether it's easy to take care of Dahu and the others, I have to pay you your salary.” Xiaoxiao said to Mrs. Wu, “Twenty copper coins a day for the time being. When the benefits increase in the future, I'll give you more money.”

Little Wu was stunned.

“T-twenty copper coins?”

For one day of work?

In a month, it would be more than two taels!

She would earn more than Liu Ping!

Not only was she paid, but she was also given a portion of the pancakes and braised food that Su Daya made every day. If she went to town to buy them, it would be a considerable sum.

“There's no need for so many…”

“If you think I give you too much, do your job well.”

… .

Because she was going to the market, Su Xiaoxiao left early today. When she arrived, Luo Dazhuang had just set up his stall and hadn't hung the meat up yet.

“So early,” Luo Dazhuang said.

“How was the sale yesterday?” Su Xiaoxiao asked.

“Here.” They were all sold out.

10 catties of braised meat, 20 catties of braised ribs, 30 yuan per catty and 40 yuan per catty.

When he heard her price, he thought she had gone crazy. This was a small town. Did she think it was a city?

In the end, it was really sold out.

“A pound of braised meat was used for taste tests,” he said.

It meant that he did not deliberately deduct copper coins.

He sold it for one tael of silver and 70 copper coins. Luo Dazhuang's cut was 20%, and Su Xiaoxiao got 850 copper coins.

The cost of meat was 300 copper coins. The cost of labor, marinade and other costs was less than 50 copper coins.

From the looks of it, the net profit was half a tael of silver.

“Looks like we're working well together.”

She smiled and took back the jars from yesterday. She placed three new jars in his stall.

Chapter 37

“Weigh it. Ten catties of pig intestines, ten catties of meat, seven catties of pig head meat, and ten catties of braised pig trotters.”

Ever since the evidence was confirmed, Luo Dazhuang had calmed down a lot. He weighed the braised meat one by one, which was slightly more than what Su Xiaoxiao had said.

Su Ergou patted his chest and said, “We will never be short of money!”

“How much are you planning to sell it for?” Luo Dazhuang asked.

“Thirty copper coins for the meat and forty copper coins per catty for the rest.”

Luo Dazhuang was shocked. “No way? You're selling pork at such a high price?”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “What's rare is precious. My formula and taste are worth this price!”

“Alright, don't blame me if you can't sell it.”

It would be strange if anyone bought such expensive pig offal.

At Jin Ji, Manager Sun came in early for work. At this moment, he was testing the freshly cooked snacks with a few chefs in the cubicle.

“How is it?” Manager Sun asked.

The cooks looked at each other and shook their heads.

It didn't taste right.

“Too sweet,” said a cook named Li.

He was a senior chef in Jin Ji and had been working for more than ten years. Logically speaking, his culinary skills were not bad.

“Why is it sweet again?” Manager Sun frowned. “The pot was bland just now, and this pot is sweet. What… is wrong?”

Chef Li said, “I can taste what ingredients she used, but I can't make it taste like a Wife Cake.”

Chef Wang said, “The heat control and the ratio of ingredients are also very important. Sometimes, the difference is too great. Haven't people been fighting to imitate our snacks, but they can't make them taste like ours either?”

Everyone else nodded.

Manager Sun said angrily, “The problem now is that someone made it! It's even better than Jin Ji! Didn't you hear what the customers said?”

“She probably didn't imitate our snacks…”

A new chef said weakly.

“How could she not have!” Manager Sun glared at him.

The new chef fell silent.

“She must have improved our formula,” said another chef with the surname Liu.

Manager Sun said coldly, “If she can improve, can't you do the same? To think few men can't beat a small village girl. If word gets out, what will happen to our Jin Ji?”

Jin Ji was an established brand after all. The influence of the wife cake was not too great. After all, the little fat village girl only sold a few a day.

But it wasn't like it didn't affect them at all. He had heard guests discussing more than once that their pancake wasn't as delicious as the Wife Cakes.

This was a great humiliation!

“Why don't… we chase her away?” Chef Liu suggested.

“Do you think I don't want to chase you away?” Manager Sun rolled his eyes.

“She saved our customer. If we chase her away, what will the customers think? Besides, she's not at the main entrance of Jin Ji. She's not blocking the way or affecting the customers. Why should we chase her away?”

Manager Sun was a little cunning, but he was also business-minded. He knew the importance of the store's image and did not wish to do anything to ruin Jin Ji's reputation.

“Continue to think about the formula. I'll come up with ideas.”

—

There was a long queue at the entrance of Jin Ji as usual, but soon, an unbelievable scene happened.

The moment Su Xiaoxiao's Wife Cakes were placed on display, many customers in the queue moved in front of her.

Hence, she also formed a small queue.

It was naturally incomparable to Jin Ji, but to a vendor who dared to sell snacks at the entrance of Jin Ji, it was already a rare sight.

“Miss! Are there any with chestnuts today? I didn't eat them yesterday!”

A young man stuck his head out and asked.

“Yes,” Su Xiaoxiao said with a smile.

Little Wu went back to her mother's house and stuffed the copper coins that Su Xiaoxiao had given her into her mother's hands. Her mother knew that her life with her in-laws was not easy and refused to accept them. However, she could not persuade Little Wu, so she asked her to bring the chestnuts back.

“I want chestnuts too!” said a little boy.

“Yes, I'll buy for you!” a middle-aged woman said dotingly. Then, she thought of something and asked Su Xiaoxiao, “Will you be sold out when we arrive?”

Su Xiaoxiao said happily, “I made forty chestnuts today.”

Twenty with red beans, twenty with green beans, and twenty with dried vegetables.

It was still a hundred.

As they wished, the grandmother and granddaughter bought chestnut stuffing.

The chestnut-filled pancake was a test of culinary skills. Although chestnut had its own sweetness, it had to be enhanced with sugar. If too much was added, it would easily overshadow its taste, making it taste not much different from other sweet fillings.

Su Xiaoxiao had grasped it perfectly, perfectly retaining the fragrance and sweetness of the chestnut. It was pink and glutinous, with a hint of crispy oil; it was sweet but not greasy.

“Grandma, it's delicious!” the little boy said.

The other guests also praised the chestnut-filled Wife Cake.

A hundred were quickly sold out.

Su Ergou muttered, “Sister, I…”

He had yet to eat and broadcast!

Su Xiaoxiao laughed uncontrollably. “I brought it for you.”

She had other missions today and could not rush back to cook at noon. She brought food for herself and Ergou and left some for Daddy Su and the others.

Su Ergou began to dig in his sister's basket.

Why did he feel… a little happy?

In the past, it had always been Su Ergou who gave in to his sister and made people forget that he was also a child who needed someone to dote on him.

Su Ergou successfully found a bowl of Wife Cakes.

“Sister, you eat too.”

“I'm on a diet. You eat it.”

“Oh.”

Su Ergou stuffed the biscuit into his mouth.

After packing up, Su Xiaoxiao planned to leave.

At this moment, Manager Sun walked over leisurely.

He put his hands behind his back and looked like he was taking a stroll. “Are you done selling?”

Su Xiaoxiao was sure that he was talking to her. She hummed indifferently. “We've sold out.”

Manager Sun said with a fake smile, “You guys… are always selling things near Jin Ji. Aren't you snatching business?”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “If two country bumpkins like us can snatch Jin Ji's business, then your business is too easy to snatch.”

Wasn't this a slap in the face?

Manager Sun coughed a few times. “You're a young lady. It's not easy for you to make a living with your younger brother. In the future, when the weather gets colder, will you even set up a stall in the snow? How about this? Why don't you sell the biscuits to Jin Ji?”

“Oh?” Su Xiaoxiao looked at him in surprise.

Manager Sun raised his chin and said, “You sell them for ten copper coins each, but I think your pancakes are only worth two to three copper coins. If you sell them for five copper coins, you can get 200 a day!”

Su Xiaoxiao pulled Su Ergou and left without looking back.

Manager Sun was incredulous. Had he been ignored by a girl?! He stomped his foot in anger.

“Six coins! Six coins is enough, right?”

“Seven… Seven coins! No more!”

“Hey-you can't sell it for ten cents, can you?”

The siblings walked away.

Manager Sun made up his mind!

“Why don't you name a price! You can sell the formula!”

Chapter 38

Su Xiaoxiao ignored him and the siblings went to the academy. This time, the two of them used the back door again.

The guard was still the old man. However, today, he did not let them go easily. Instead, he glanced at the half-eaten pa in Su Ergou's hand and said slowly, “Give me one.”

Su Ergou was speechless.

—

Su Ergou did not know that his sister was here to treat someone and thought that they were here to do business with the academy.

“But Sister, our pancakes are sold out! We… we only have these left in the bowl.”

But there was nothing he could do. He had only eaten half of one and the old man had taken two! Was there no justice in this world?

“It's not for sale today. We'll get the pre-ordered list from Shen Chuan first and send it over tomorrow according to the list.” Su Xiaoxiao explained it in detail.

“I see!” Su Ergou was enlightened.

“In that case, we don't have to wait here to sell it, Sister! How did you think of that?”

Su Xiaoxiao hummed. “I just thought of it. Maybe… I'm smart?”

Su Ergou was speechless.

The two of them went to Dean Shen's courtyard. The servants had already ordered them to let this little fat village girl pass.

“He is…” The servant looked at Su Ergou.

“My brother,” said Su Xiaoxiao.

“Ah, please come in.” The servant politely invited the two of them to an elegant room.

The Shen family was not rich, but they owned the academy after all and were considered a big family in town.

In the room, there was a table, a chair, a table, and a book. They seem to be very particular. It was the first time ordinary villagers came here, so they felt a little uncomfortable.

Su Xiaoxiao planned to let her brother relax. When she turned around, she saw that Su Ergou had fallen asleep on the chair.

Su Xiaoxiao was speechless.

She went to the patient's room, which was next door.

Jing Yi was there too and he had just wiped his cousin's sweat. Since there was sweat, it meant that the fever was receding.

“There you are,” he said. “My cousin's high fever goes back and forth. Why is that?”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “It's normal to have a high fever for three to five days. Did he eat last night and this morning?”

Jing Yi nodded. “He ate some plain porridge.”

Looking at it this way, there was some improvement. At least he could eat.

The doctor of Rongen Hall had not seen any improvement for a few days. The moment she arrived…

Jing Yi looked at her deeply and remembered Bai Ze's report last night. “She's a girl from Xinghua Village. Her surname is Su. She has a father, a younger brother, and three children. The three children call her father Grandpa and her younger brother Uncle. They should be her sons.”

Three children. How old was she?

“Her husband… ”

“He didn't come out of her room.”

Since she was just a country bumpkin, Bai Ze did not continue guarding against her.

“Where did you learn from?” Jing Yi asked.

Su Xiaoxiao sighed. “My master is very low-key and usually doesn't let me say it. But if you insist on knowing, I shall tell you reluctantly. My master's surname is Fu and he lives in Spring Willow Lane.”

Bai Ze did say that after leaving the academy yesterday, she went to the house of a physician with the surname of Fu.

Fu.

Could it be Imperial Physician Fu from back then?

No, Imperial Physician Fu had passed away many years ago, and his age did not match that of the physician.

“Why? You don't believe me?” Su Xiaoxiao asked.

Jing Yi said calmly, “No, I just feel that very few doctors are willing to take in female disciples.”

Su Xiaoxiao spread her hands. “Isn't it because I'm talented and have a good foundation? I'm a rare genius!”

Jing Yi looked at her chubby body and the corners of his mouth twitched.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “I'm going to start treating the patient. Can you wait outside the room?”

Jing Yi turned around and left the room, closing the door for her.

Su Xiaoxiao said casually, “By the way, if you want to know anything in the future, you can ask me directly. You don't have to get someone to sneak up to my roof.”

Jing Yi clenched his fists.

With Bai Ze's movement technique… he was actually discovered by a small village girl?

Su Xiaoxiao took in his reaction. So he did do it last night.

Su Xiaoxiao walked over expressionlessly and bolted the door!

Jing Yi was speechless

Su Xiaoxiao took out the first aid kit from the small basket. Su Ergou had found this just now, but he did not open it.

She took out her stethoscope and listened to the other party's heartbeat and breathing. The improvement was not great.

“Looks like the effects of the medicine are too slow.”

Su Xiaoxiao decided to give him an IV. He woke up when she put the pressure tube on him and looked at Su Xiaoxiao in confusion and shock.

Su Xiaoxiao said softly, “I'm a physician invited by Young Master Jing. I'm treating you. It might be a little painful. Bear with it for a while.”

The other party nodded and obediently did not move.

Doctors liked obedient patients the most.

“Don't worry, I'll be very gentle.”

Then, she pricked the leak…

This body did not have the muscle memory accumulated from her previous life. Her chubby fingers stabbed down according to the strength in her brain and decisively pierced over his head.

Su Xiaoxiao looked at him regretfully. “Um, I might have to pierce you again.”

The other party smiled weakly and gently, indicating to Su Xiaoxiao that it was fine.

Su Xiaoxiao finally got it right on the third try.

… .

Jing Yi had been silently guarding the corridor.

Changping was ordered not to approach. He stood in the courtyard from afar, looking at Jing Yi bitterly and worriedly at the closed door.

Young Master Jing was really something. How could he let a small village girl treat Master?

If there was really a problem, let's see how Young Master Jing would explain it when he returned to the capital!

The patient was not in a good state of mind, so he fell asleep again after an infusion.

Su Xiaoxiao came out twice to see if Su Ergou had caught a cold.

Jing Yi asked the servants to bring the charcoal basin into the house.

The last time Su Xiaoxiao came out was two hours later.

Shen Chuan returned from class and saw Su Xiaoxiao under the corridor.

“Eh, Miss Su, you're here!” He smiled and greeted her.

Seeing the young man beside her, his smile disappeared and he cupped his hands. “Young Master Jing.”

Jing Yi nodded slightly.

Shen Chuan looked at Su Xiaoxiao and then at Jing Yi. It was obvious that he had something to say to Su Xiaoxiao alone.

Jing Yi entered his cousin's room expressionlessly.

Shen Chuan was all smiles again. He took out a piece of paper and handed it to her. “Miss Su, after everyone tasted your pancakes yesterday, they all said that it was delicious! A total of 23 people reserved it. The exact amount is written on the list! There could have been more but I was afraid you won't be able to fulfill the order!”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Sorry to have troubled you.”

Shen Chuan had thought it through. If there were too many of them, she would indeed be too busy with her current manpower.

Shen Chuan said, “I have my own convenience! I don't have to line up at Jin Ji anymore! Speaking of which, do you only sell wife cakes? Do you have any other snacks?”

“Yes,” said Su Xiaoxiao.

Shen Chuan patted the fan in his hand. “That's great. The Wife Cake is delicious, but if they keep eating it, I'm worried that they will get tired of it.”

Su Xiaoxiao realized that this young master of the academy was a glutton. He was probably the one who wanted to try out all sorts of snacks!

“By the way, there's a medicine that you don't have to administer. Continue to feed the rest.”

—

After instructing Shen Chuan, Su Xiaoxiao woke up Su Ergou, who was sleeping soundly, and left the academy.

Unexpectedly, she met an acquaintance at the entrance of the academy.

Chapter 39

Su Xiaoxiao didn't recognize him at first glance and only felt that he looked familiar. She didn't take it to heart and brushed past him with the sleepy Su Ergou.

The other party probably didn't expect to be ignored by the siblings. He frowned and said, “Su Daya! Su Ergou!”

Eh?

Did they really know each other?

Su Xiaoxiao stopped and turned to look at him. “Who are you?”

Su Ergou rubbed his eyes and froze. “Cousin?”

Father Su was an orphan and had no sisters. The only person who could be called Eldest Cousin was the scholar from the Chen family.

What was he called again?

Hao? Yuan?

It was no wonder that Su Xiaoxiao couldn't remember. It was because the Host didn't have much interaction with her eldest cousin. Even if they met occasionally, her eldest cousin rarely spoke to her.

Chen Haoyuan looked at the two of them unhappily. “Why are you here?”

Su Ergou opened his mouth, but before he could speak, Chen Haoyuan's gaze landed on Su Xiaoxiao's face with undisguised disdain and hostility.

“Did you come for me?” he asked.

What was this person talking about?

Su Xiaoxiao looked at Su Ergou in confusion, indicating that she did not understand what this cousin was doing.

“Do I know him well?” she whispered.

Su Ergou covered his mouth with his hand and lowered his voice. “You used to like Eldest Cousin. Have you forgotten? You even gave him a purse, but Eldest Cousin didn't want it.”

“Isn't He Tongsheng the one I like?”

“He Tongsheng came later.”

Su Xiaoxiao was speechless.

The siblings whispered, and Chen Haoyuan frowned even more.

Su Xiaoxiao secretly clenched her fists. How many had the Host taken a fancy to? And these memories were scattered. It was really inconvenient.

Chen Haoyuan said coldly, “I heard about you and He Tongsheng.”

There was a hidden meaning in his words. Su Xiaoxiao looked at him strangely for a long time before finally understanding what he was insinuating.

He thought that she could not marry He Tongsheng, so she came to provoke him again.

Wait a minute, didn't Chen Feng and Madam Huang tell him that she had a handsome husband like Wei Ting?

Even though Chen Hao was a scholar and had delicate features, he was still not on par with Wei Ting, alright?

Su Xiaoxiao looked at the bag in his hand and understood.

Chen Haoyuan lived in the academy and only had a day off. He had a day off today and didn't know that Chen Feng and his wife had gone to the Su family to cause trouble.

Su Xiaoxiao chuckled. “Who said I was here for you?”

Were all the ancient scholars so noble? He Tongsheng and Chen Haoyuan were the same. Both of them wished they could raise their noses to the sky!

Chen Haoyuan said arrogantly, “You better not be! Also, the academy is not a place for people like you. Plant your land in the countryside and don't come out to embarrass yourself!”

“What kind of people are we?” Su Ergou was unhappy.

Ever since Su Xiaoxiao fell out with the Chen family, he didn't seem to be as afraid of them as before.

“You know very well what kind of person I am.” Chen Haoyuan dusted his spotless sleeves.

The meaning was obvious-they were two rogue bullies with muddy legs dirtying the holy land of scholars!

“That's all I have to say. Take care!”

With that, Chen Haoyuan flicked his sleeve and left.

Su Ergou looked at his back and scratched his head. “Sister, why do I suddenly want to beat him up?”

Su Xiaoxiao asked, “Then why don't you go and beat him up?”

Su Ergou said timidly, “… I don't dare to.”

He had told his father about the last time his uncle and aunt came to his house. His father did not say a word after hearing it and only silently returned to the house.

He could not judge his father's attitude towards the Chen family.

“Let's go,” Su Xiaoxiao said.

“Sister, aren't you angry?” Su Ergou quickly followed.

Su Xiaoxiao said casually, “What's there to be angry about? Are we the kind of people he says we are? You're still young. You'll meet many such people in the future. You won't be able to settle all of them. Unless he moved your cheese, don't waste your time.”

What cheese?

Su Ergou scratched his head. “Sister, are you going to make new snacks? Are you going to make Ergou biscuits?”

Su Xiaoxiao was speechless.

Su Xiaoxiao ignored him, but Su Ergou continued the original topic. “Sister, when you first took a fancy to He Tongsheng, I knew that it was because He Tongsheng was also a scholar. In your heart… you still miss Cousin.”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “I don't care what he thinks of me anymore.”

She only cared about money, money, and more money!

Su Ergou nodded seriously. “That's true. You have brother-in-law now! His looks are much better than theirs!”

Su Xiaoxiao, who was calm even after being labeled by Chen Haoyuan, clenched her fists tightly with a dark expression!

Why was it that guy again?

So angry!

—

Wei Ting was pulled by Father Su to learn farming from the Qian family again today.

His stitches had been removed, but he still couldn't use too much strength. The main force was still Father Su.

Looking at the vegetable field that had been ruined again, Madam Qian was so angry that she clenched her fists and trembled!

Father Su touched his nose resentfully. “You asked me to pluck it…”

Madam Qian gritted his teeth. “Is that plucking? You've uprooted it!”

Father Su muttered, “You said I could pull it out…”

“You can pluck the onions! Who asked you to pluck the garlic seedlings?!”

Madam Qian was so angry that her heart ached!

Heavens, let this guy extort her! Don't let him learn farming from her!

Extortion would only cost her a few copper coins but he is effectively destroying half an acre of her farmland!

“You do it!”

Madam Qian said to Wei Ting in exasperation.

Wei Ting sighed and limped over with his walking stick.

There were even more villagers watching today than yesterday. Even those from the neighboring village had come. They came to see Tyrant Su's son-in-law.

“Aunt Qian, have some water first.” Wei Ting gave her a bowl of water from Madam Qian's basket.

Qian took the bowl and took a sip, feeling a little better.

She pointed at the green plants on the ground and asked Wei Ting, “What are these? Do you still recognize them?”

“Big onions, garlic sprouts, leeks, spring onions, radish, and lettuce.” Wei Ting reported from left to right.

“Yes.” Madam Qian was very satisfied.

She glared at Su Cheng and said, “Young people are still the smartest. You learned it immediately! Unlike some people, who can't differentiate between green onions and garlic sprouts after a hundred times!”

Evil Tyrant Su made a fool of himself again! The villagers were really going to die laughing!

Su Cheng's eyes darted around as he quickly changed the positions of the vegetables.

He raised his eyebrows and looked at Wei Ting. “Can you still recognize them?”

Wei Ting was speechless.

He was a good son-in-law. Why was there a need to fight?

Chapter 40

In the other town, Su Xiaoxiao thought about her conversation with Jing Yi and was worried. She went to Spring Willow Lane again.

When Aunt Fu saw her, her nostrils flared. “Why are you here again!”

Su Xiaoxiao pouted. “Anyway, I'm not looking for you to buy dried plums.”

Aunt Fu was so angry she couldn't speak!

Physician Fu came out. “Mother…”

Aunt Fu said angrily, “I asked you to charge her double treatment fee, did you take the payment?”

Physician Fu said awkwardly, “I've taken it…”

She was his disciple.

A disciple in name only.

He did not dare to say the last sentence.

“Hmph!” Aunt Fu thought that she had successfully extorted Su Xiaoxiao and entered the house proudly!

“Sister, I want to go to the toilet.” Su Ergou needed to pee.

“The latrine is over there.” Physician Fu pointed the way.

After Su Ergou went to the toilet, Su Xiaoxiao asked about the young man in embroidered clothes.

Physician Fu said, “Someone was here. A young man with a sword.”

It was Bai Ze, Jing Yi's guard.

Su Xiaoxiao pondered for a moment and asked, “Did he ask you about me?”

“That's right,” Physician Fu said. “He asked me who you are to me. I said you were my disciple and asked him who he was, and he left.”

She had guessed that Jing Yi would investigate her. Fortunately, she had made preparations in advance. Otherwise, she probably wouldn't be able to explain her medical skills.

Next, she thought that Physician Fu would ask her what was going on. Who was she, where was her master, and why was someone investigating her?

Unexpectedly, Physician Fu did not seem to care at all. He only reminded her solemnly, “Don't tell my mother. The Fu family's medical skills are passed down to men and not women. If she finds out that I took in a female disciple… Even if it's just a nominal disciple in name, she will definitely be furious.”

Su Xiaoxiao touched her chin. “Oh, I suddenly want to tell her.”

Physician Fu was speechless.

—

The siblings arrived home at about the same time as their father and the family's son-in-law.

Everyone ended their day's work and worked hard and happily.

Except for Madam Qian. She had been tortured to death.

Su Cheng was all smiles. “Daughter! I'm back! My son-in-law is also back!”

When they returned home, they were loving in-laws!

The three little ones followed Meizi and Niu Dan to the village to play. Su Ergou went to call them home for dinner.

Su Xiaoxiao entered the kitchen and took Father Su's Chinese medicine. While waiting for the medicine, she brought the bone-strengthening medicine she had taken from the pharmacy to Father Su's room.

“What's this?” Father Su asked.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Bone-strengthening medicine.”

Father Su had never seen such a strange medicine. “Did you spend a lot of money on this?”

“I met a good physician who sold it to me at a cheap price,” Su Xiaoxiao said as she handed him a money bag. “I've earned some money from doing business these few days. Take these first.”

Old Master Su refused. “I don't want it. Take it and spend it!”

Su Xiaoxiao said softly, “I've kept some and given some to Ergou. Although it's not much, as long as we work hard in business, it will definitely get better and better in the future.”

Old Master Su's throat hurt again.

He held his daughter's hand and resisted the urge to cry with great willpower. He choked and said, “Don't worry… Dad will learn to farm well…”

In the house of the Li family, Madam Qian, who was eating, suddenly shivered involuntarily.

—

Su Xiaoxiao hadn't given Old Father Su acupuncture yet. It wasn't time yet.

She returned to the house and took out the list that Shen Chuan had given her. She planned to see how many had been ordered of each type so that she could decide how much dough to distribute tonight.

But when she saw the black and white paper in her hand, her expression froze.

She couldn't read!

To be precise, she did not know the language of this dynasty!

Moreover, the ancient words were written vertically from top to bottom, and from right to left. There were no punctuation marks, so it was not easy to guess!

She had been too hasty! Had she known earlier, she would have asked Shen Chuan to read it!

The little fatty scratched her head angrily!

Just as she was about to go crazy, she turned around and saw Wei Ting sitting at the door enjoying the sunset.

Su Xiaoxiao's eyes lit up as she strode over. “Wei Ting, can you read?”

Wei Ting sat on the chair and looked up indifferently.

The afterglow of the setting sun fell into his deep eyes, reflecting a dazzling light.

Su Xiaoxiao swallowed.

Oh no, this body's love-struck habit was acting up again.

She quickly turned her face away and said coldly, “I'm asking you a question.”

Wei Ting looked at the back of her head and said indifferently, “Yes.”

“Really?” Su Xiaoxiao turned around and looked at him with sparkling eyes. “Then help me read the words on this!”

“You can't read?” Wei Ting was surprised.

Those who knew medicine more or less knew how to read, except for some barefooted doctors who only knew a few traditional cures. However, it was obvious that her medical skills were much better than those of barefooted doctors.

“What's so strange about country bumpkins not being able to read? Are you going to read it or not?” Su Xiaoxiao shook the list in her hand.

Wei Ting asked with a faint smile, “Is this your attitude of begging?”

Su Xiaoxiao gritted her teeth.

Wei Ting leaned back in his chair and said in a tone, “It seems that you don't want me to read it. Forget it.”

Su Xiaoxiao glared at him angrily and took a deep breath. She smiled. “Husband, you've worked all day in the fields. It's been hard on you. Are you thirsty? Are you hungry? I'll get you a glass of water!”

She quickly poured a cup of tea.

“It's slightly cold,” Wei Ting said.

“Wait!” Su Xiaoxiao went into the house to get a cup of hot water.

“It's bland,” Wei Ting said again.

“Okay!” Su Xiaoxiao went to add some tea leaves.

Apart from a few luxuries for Su Daya in the past, the Su family lived frugally. The tea leaves they had were old tea, rough and astringent.

Wei Ting took a sip and didn't want to drink anymore.

“Husband, are you tired? Let me massage your shoulders!”

Su Xiaoxiao circled behind him and reached out with her chubby hands to massage his shoulders and neck.

Wei Ting enjoyed the way someone tried his best to please him.

Except for one development. A certain someone's hand was indeed very disciplined at first, but as she pressed down, it went in an indescribable direction.

Wei Ting's body tensed. “Give it to me!”

Su Xiaoxiao sneered. Did he think that she couldn't deal with him? She had long noticed that there was an itch on Wei Ting's waist.

Wei Ting pointed at the words on the list and read them to her word by word.

Su Xiaoxiao listened attentively and subconsciously bent down behind him, wanting to remember the words he read.

The girl's warm breath landed on his ear, and Wei Ting paused.

“Why did you stop?” Su Xiaoxiao said.

Wei Ting continued reading.

The wind was cold and he was hot.

–

When Su Jinniang passed by not far away, she saw the two of them being intimate under the setting sun.

“I'm done reading.”

Wei Ting said coldly.

Su Xiaoxiao leaned on the chair and tilted her head, smiling at his perfect side profile. “Husband, you're so amazing!”

Wei Ting's expression was calm, and his tone was disdainful. “You don't have to tell me.”

“I won't say it then!” Anyway, he had finished reading it and she had what she needed!

Su Xiaoxiao grabbed the list and got up to go inside.

Wei Ting said seriously, “The tea is cold.”

Su Xiaoxiao unleashed her aura without looking back. “Pour it yourself!”

Wei Ting was dumbfounded.

Chapter 41

The three little ones went crazy and didn't come back with Su Ergou. Su Ergou activated his child-catching mode and the three little ones ran away!

Su Ergou only had two hands. After catching Dahu and Erhu, Xiaohu slipped away.

After catching Xiao Hu, Dahu ran away.

After holding Dahu under his arm, Erhu stuck out his tongue and escaped.

Su Ergou was flustered.

The villagers, who had just finished watching the humiliation of Su Cheng and his son-in-law, were fortunate enough to witness the youngest bully of the Su family being played by three little children.

“Aiyo… Hahaha…”

The villagers' stomachs hurt from laughing.

When had Su Ergou, who always followed his father around, ever been in such a sorry state?

How silly!

Hahahahaha!

Su Xiaoxiao didn't know about the commotion between Su Ergou and the three little ones. After Wei Ting finished reading the list to her, he suddenly lost his temper and returned to the house with a cold face.

“I've spoiled you.” Su Xiaoxiao curled her lips and snorted. She went to the kitchen to wash the vegetables.

There was not much wood, so she decided to go to the back mountain to pick up some firewood.

The sky was dark in the morning, so she usually took the main road. Now that there was enough light, she decided to take the small path behind the kitchen and go around the mountain.

Su Jinniang had already returned home and was sitting in the backyard picking vegetables. The voices of her mother, Madam Fang, Second Aunt, and Madam Zhou could be heard from the kitchen.

Madam Zhou lived next door to Old Su. If there was nothing else, they would come over to visit.

“Sister Fang, which family is Jinniang planning to marry into? Have you decided?”

It was Madam Zhou's voice.

Madam Fang said, “Not yet.”

Madam Zhou wondered, “Why hasn't it been decided yet? Jinniang is already 16!”

In the countryside, many girls would be married by the time they reached the age of fifteen. There were not many who were still undecided at the age of sixteen.

Second Aunt Yang said, “There's no hurry. It's not like Jinniang can't find a good match.”

“No matter how good a girl is, it'll be difficult for her to get married once she's old!” Zhou said, “Don't be blind and delay Jinniang.”

Madam Fang smiled.

Madam Zhou gossiped, “There are many suitors, right? I see matchmakers coming to your house every day. Who are they? Old Luo's Dazhu! He must be one of them!”

Dazhu, the village chief's nephew, was a down-to-earth and hardworking young man. If not for the fact that Madam Zhou's daughter was still young, she would have wanted Dazhu to be her son-in-law.

“Is there anyone from town? That daughter of the family that owns a wine shop in Willow Village has already married someone from town! She's far inferior to Jinniang. If she can even marry into town, Jinniang… ”

Before Madam Zhou could finish, she was interrupted by Madam Fang coldly. “My Jinniang won't adopt her style! Jinniang has always been well-behaved. She won't seduce a man who has an engagement!”

The minister's son originally had a fiancée, but the match was ruined by the wine dealer's daughter.

Madam Fang continued, “There are also people from the town who came to propose marriage, but Jinniang's grandfather wants to choose a scholar as his son-in-law.”

Madam Zhou smiled and said, “That's true. Jin Niang should get married and study! Unlike Fat Lass Su, so what if she finds a handsome husband? He can't read a word and is learning to farm from Old Li!”

Su Jinniang recalled the scene when Wei Ting read the letter to Su Xiaoxiao. That man… was clearly literate.

—

Madam Zhou gossiped for a while before leaving. Su Jinniang washed the picked vegetables and brought them into the kitchen.

“Is it snowing? Jinniang, close the door,” Madam Fang, who was cooking, said to Su Jinniang.

Su Jinniang quietly went to close the back door of the kitchen and bumped into Su Xiaoxiao.

Su Jinniang's gaze landed on her flowery cotton jacket and she closed the door coldly.

Su Xiaoxiao looked down at her clothes.

Damn, she had forgotten to buy new clothes.

It started to snow. Su Xiaoxiao didn't go far. She picked up a bundle of firewood and quickly returned.

Su Ergou finally caught the three little ones. He was so tired that he was panting like a husky.

The three little ones were full of energy and slipped into the kitchen to look for their mother.

“Mother, Dahu is hungry.”

“Erhu is hungry too.”

“Xiaohu is the most hungry!”

Xiaohu lifted his clothes and patted his stomach.

Su Xiaoxiao gently poked his watermelon-like stomach. “Aiya, you're really hungry!”

Xiaohu nodded. “Yes!”

Su Xiaoxiao burst out laughing.

Dahu and Erhu also wanted to her poke their stomachs. Su Xiaoxiao didn't know whether to laugh or cry. She poked them one by one and didn't favor one over the other.

Su Xiaoxiao had made a hotpot with corn and pork rib soup tonight. The soup base was not spicy, but she made the dipping sauce spicy.

She clapped her hands. “Done!”

At this moment, there was a loud knock on the door.

“Fatty Su! Come out!”

“What are you doing? What are you shouting for!”

Su Cheng removed the door latch with a cold face. The snow outside blew against his face and poured down his neck.

Su Cheng quickly pulled his collar.

When Madam Wan saw the door open, she raised her fists and pounced forward.

Su Cheng moved aside and she missed.

“Mother!”

Madam Wan's daughter-in-law was shocked. She looked at the bully, Su Cheng. Seeing that Su Cheng had no intention of attacking her, she boldly entered the house and helped Madam Wan up.

“Mother, are you alright?” she asked worriedly.

Madam Wan shouted, “Where's Fatty Su? Get her out! Get her out!”

Su Cheng frowned and asked, “Why are you looking for my daughter?”

“Father.”

Su Xiaoxiao came out of the kitchen.

When Madam Wan saw her, she pushed away her daughter-in-law, who was supporting her, like a wild beast. She picked up the chair on the ground and threw it at Su Xiaoxiao!

Su Cheng was behind Madam Wan and it was too late to snatch the chair.

Su Xiaoxiao had just crossed the threshold and the three little fellows were behind her. She couldn't hide.

She was holding the hotpot in her hand, so she couldn't use her hand to block it.

Just as the chair was about to hit her, the door to the small east room suddenly opened. Wei Ting flashed out and it struck down.

Su Xiaoxiao: “The chair costs money!”

Wei Ting gritted his teeth and grabbed the chair firmly.

Su Xiaoxiao heaved a sigh of relief. “Thank goodness. Chairs are expensive.”

Wei Ting was dumbfounded.

“Wan! What's wrong with you!” Su Cheng strode forward and stood in front of Madam Wan. He said fiercely, “Are you crazy! How dare you attack my daughter! Don't think that I won't hit you just because you're a woman?!”

“Mother! Mother!”

Madam Wan's daughter-in-law hurriedly pulled her mother-in-law aside.

The commotion was too big. The villagers came to watch the commotion again.

“What's wrong?”

“I don't know.”

“Who's that in the house?”

“Wang Laizi's mother and his wife.”

Wang Laizi was the man who had touched Little Wu on the ox cart that day. Su Xiaoxiao kicked him off the ox cart.

Seeing that all the villagers had come, Madam Wan ran out and collapsed to the ground. She pounded her chest and cried, “Son… my poor son… the goddamn Su family… return my son's life… ”

Wang Laizi's wife also cried sadly.

Madam He said, “What do you mean by returning your son's life? Auntie Wan, explain it to everyone.”

Madam Wan cried, “Fatty Su killed my son!”

Chapter 42

What? Did Fat Lass Su kill Wang Laizi?

When everyone heard this news, they were extremely shocked.

Although the Su family was domineering, they had never killed anyone. What was going on?

Su Cheng walked out of the house. “Wan! Don't slander her! When did my daughter kill your son?”

Madam Wan pointed at Su Xiaoxiao. “I'm not talking nonsense! Your daughter killed him!”

Su Xiaoxiao walked out unhurriedly. “You said I killed him. Do you have evidence?”

Madam Wan was exceptionally agitated. “My son has no feud with anyone but you! Who else could it be?”

Su Cheng said impatiently, “When did my daughter become enemies with your son?”

Madam Wan pointed at Su Xiaoxiao and said angrily, “She kicked my son off the ox cart a few days ago!”

Su Xiaoxiao nodded. “Oh, yes, so what? Isn't it too far-fetched to conclude that I'm the murderer based on this?”

Madam Wan was so excited that she panted heavily. “You said it yourself… that you don't like my son!”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “I did say that.”

Madam Wan cried to everyone, “Everyone, listen! She admitted it! She doesn't like my son and won't even let my son sit on the ox cart!”

“I didn't let your son take the ox cart because… ” Su Xiaoxiao paused.

“Because what? Tell me! You can't say it! You don't like my son, so you killed him! You're so ruthless!”

Madam Wan cried until her voice was hoarse.

Everyone looked at Fatty Su differently. Just because no one died in the past didn't mean that it would always be the case, right?

Moreover, their family was the most domineering in the entire village. Who else would be capable of killing him Fatty Su?

“She even killed someone. She's really something!”

“Why is there such a disaster in our village?”

“Poor Wang Laizi.”

Wang Laizi was of a bad character and had bad habits. However, he was a living person after all. It was fine if he lost his life due to his own actions, but it was a little too much to be killed.

No one wanted to live in the same village as a murderer.

At this moment, another villager said, “Little Su's family isn't from our village, to begin with! They're from Willow Village next door! In my opinion, apart from reporting this to the officials, we have to chase their family back to Willow Village!”

It would be best if they could get rid of these bullies!

The village chief arrived with Old Li.

The two of them listened and almost understood what was going on.

Old Li advised, “Everyone, calm down. Daya is not that kind of person! She won't kill anyone!”

“Old Li! Why are you speaking up for Su Daya? Did she give you any benefits?”

“If she didn't give him any benefits, why would he let his wife teach the Su family how to farm?”

“That's right. The Li family and the Su family have been really close these few days!”

“Old Li, what benefits did she give you? This is human life! Don't cover up for a murderer!”

When Old Li heard these words, he was furious. He pointed at those people and said, “I don't know anything about murderers! I only know… if it weren't for Daya that day, your New Year goods would have been snatched away by the hooligans in town!”

Old Li told them everything about Su Xiaoxiao fighting Zhang Dao.

Su Cheng said, “That's right! The Su family offended Zhang Dao because of this matter. We even went to the medical center to fight with Zhang Dao! My hand was injured!”

Everyone looked at one another.

There were a lot of New Year goods that day. If that was really the case, they would owe Fatty Su a big favor.

Madam Wan gritted her teeth and said, “You're in cahoots with her! Naturally, you'll speak up for her! Other than the few of you, who else has seen that group of people in town? It's all because of you!”

Everyone thought that it seemed to make sense.

Madam Wan continued, “What kind of person is Fatty Su? It's already good enough that she didn't extort money from the villagers. Would she help them? Old Li, you are dragging the entire village down with you just because you reaped a few benefits!”

Old Li was anxious. “I'm telling the truth! If I lied, let me… let me be struck by lightning and die a horrible death!”

With this oath, everyone fell silent.

Actually, they knew Old Li's character very well. Otherwise, they wouldn't have been at ease letting Old Li buy New Year's goods for them.

It was only because it happened suddenly and was related to Fatty Su that they had some doubts.

However, Old Li had made such a vicious oath…

Could it be that they had really wronged Fatty Su?

Madam Wan said angrily, “So, so what if she really helped you snatch back your things? It's true that she has a grudge against my son! Old Li! You were there that day! It was your ox cart! Tell everyone yourself, did she kick my son down?”

“This…” Old Li could not deny it.

“Aunt Wan.”

Little Wu squeezed in from behind the villagers. She squeezed her sleeves and said with a pale face, “I was there that day. Daya kicked your son off the ox cart because… ”

Su Xiaoxiao interrupted her coldly. “Wu! Since when are you allowed to interfere in my matters!”

“Daya!” Little Wu looked at Su Xiaoxiao with red eyes. She understood that Su Daya did it on purpose. Su Daya stopped her from telling the truth because she was worried that her reputation would be damaged and she would be criticized in the future.

However, she could not watch Su Daya be slandered as a murderer. She did not believe that Su Daya was that kind of person.

Su Xiaoxiao walked up to Madam Wan and looked down at her in the cold wind and snow. “You know your son's character. Many people wish they could beat him to death. Didn't you often curse him and say that if you had known that he was so useless, you would have drowned him in the river… ”

Madam Wan berated, “I'm his mother! How can I kill my son?”

Su Xiaoxiao spread her hands. “Who knows?”

“You… ” Madam Wan fell back in anger!

Su Xiaoxiao looked at Madam Wan and said, “You keep saying that I'm the murderer. Then let me ask you, when did your son die? Who discovered him? What was the murder weapon? Who saw me kill him with their own eyes?”

Madam Wan said, “He… he was discovered by Madam Qi… that is, Chunya… at the back door of my house… his corpse is still warm!”

Su Xiaoxiao had been observing Madam Wan's expression. Madam Wan wasn't lying.

The village chief said, “Su Daya, where were you when it first snowed?”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “I was on my way to the back mountain to pick up firewood.”

Li Zheng asked, “Did anyone testify for you?”

Su Xiaoxiao's gaze passed the crowd and landed on Su Jinniang.

“Mother, let's go back. There's nothing to see,” Su Jinniang held Madam Fang's arm and said.

“Wait!” Su Xiaoxiao said, staring at Su Jinniang. “Chief, I think I know who the murderer is.”

Chapter 43

“Who?” the village chief asked.

Su Xiaoxiao said seriously, “I went to the back of the mountain to pick up firewood once. I heard from Wang Laizi that the girl from the Su family is really beautiful. If he can touch her twice, he'll be happy for the rest of his life! I suspect that Wang Laizi went to provoke Su Jinniang and was killed by her!”

Everyone was shocked!

Su Jinniang frowned.

Madam Fang turned around. “Fatty Su! Don't slander my daughter! Wang Laizi doesn't dare to provoke my daughter! My daughter didn't kill Wang Laizi! Jinniang hasn't gone out since she came back from the field. She has been working at home! Our entire family can testify!”

Su Xiaoxiao crossed her arms and said calmly, “You're family, so you naturally testify for her.”

What they used to refute Fatty Su just now was used on Su Jinniang. They did not believe that Su Jinniang would kill someone, but Madam Wan did not jump out to refute. Could it be… that there was really something going on?

The reason why Madam Wan was silent was that her son had indeed coveted Su Jinniang…

Madam Zhou snorted. “How can a woman kill Wang Laizi? Do you think everyone is like you, a fatty with brute force!?”

Su Cheng said fiercely, “Who are you calling a fatty? Believe it or not, I'll slap you!”

Madam Zhou shrank back.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Then she must have an accomplice!”

Su Jinniang clenched her fists and said, “Stop arguing! When Wang Laizi was in trouble, I was helping in the kitchen at home. My mother said that it was snowing and asked me to close the back door of the kitchen. Su Daya, didn't you see me?”

Madam Fang hurriedly said, “Yes, yes, yes! I asked Jinniang to close the door!”

Su Xiaoxiao looked enlightened. “Oh, that person is you. I didn't see clearly when it was snowing. I thought it was your sister, Yu Niang.”

Madam Wang said, “Yu Niang is at her in-laws' house! She's about to give birth. Her body is heavy, so she can't come back at all!”

All the villagers knew about this.

Su Jinniang said to the village chief, “With Su Daya as my witness, my suspicion is cleared, right?”

“Of course,” the village chief nodded. “In that case, the two of you were near your house at that time. The murderer was neither you nor Su Daya.”

Madam Wan howled again. “Then who killed my son?”

“This question…” Su Xiaoxiao's gaze swept across and landed on the daughter-in-law of the Wan family, Chunya.” Why don't you ask your daughter-in-law? ”

Chunya trembled.

Su Xiaoxiao looked at her with a faint smile. “Chunya, you were the one who told your mother-in-law that I had a grudge against Wang Laizi, right? You saw me going to the back mountain to pick firewood, right?”

Madam Wan said, “Fatty Su! What are you trying to say!”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Auntie Wan, your son's death is definitely related to your daughter-in-law! She deliberately chose a time when no one can testify for me and slandered me! However, God's plan worked. Su Jinniang saw me when she went to close the back door.”

“Daya is right!” Su Cheng always trusted his fat daughter without reservation. “Wan, your daughter-in-law was the one who discovered the corpse. It was still warm when she was discovered. Perhaps she just killed your son!”

Madam Wan suddenly looked at Chunya!

Chunya's face was pale. She hurriedly waved her hand. “Mom… No… It's not me… I didn't kill Dacai… I swear… I didn't…”

Wang Laizi was also called Wang Dacai. Although Chunya said that she did not kill him, she was clearly feeling guilty.

Su Xiaoxiao looked at her deeply. “Even if you didn't kill him, you should know who the murderer is.”

Madam Wan grabbed Chunya's arm tightly. “Tell me! Who is the murderer? Tell me! Tell me quickly!”

Chunya burst into tears. “I can't say…”

“Tell me! Who killed my son?”

“That's right, Chunya. Just say it, right? Don't take the blame for others.”

“Chunya, don't be stupid. Tell me. Your man died. This is a blood feud.”

“I'm afraid you have a shameful relationship with the murderer, right? Otherwise, why would you keep your mouth shut for him?”

The villagers gradually began to speculate maliciously from their initial kind words.

It was not their fault. Chunya's actions were too abnormal.

Madam Wan also began to suspect something. She pinched Chunya's arm hard. “Tell me! Which wild man is it!”

Chunya's tears fell like rain, but she refused to say who the murderer was.

Su Xiaoxiao looked into the distance. “Stop fighting. The murderer is here.”

Everyone looked in the direction Su Xiaoxiao was pointing.

The little bully of the Su family was pushing a man who was tied up and walking over in the snow.

Behind the two of them were three little bullies.

The man walked slowly, and Su Ergou kicked his butt. “Go!”

The three little bullies picked up the little whip made by their uncle!

Dahu said fiercely, “Let's go!”

Erhu also said fiercely, “If you don't leave, I'll slap you!”

Xiaohu waved his leather whip angrily. “Whip you!”

When they got closer, everyone recognized the man who was tied up.

“Wang Laizi?” Madam He exclaimed.

Auntie Liu said, “Ah! The corpse has come back to life!”

Everyone scattered!

Auntie Liu jumped behind Su Cheng.

Unexpectedly, Su Cheng also flashed behind his fat daughter.

Auntie Liu was speechless.

Su Xiaoxiao asked, “Dad, are you afraid of ghosts?”

Su Cheng said, “No, I'm just worried that you'll be afraid. Don't worry, I'll always be your strongest backing!”

Su Xiaoxiao was speechless.

Su Ergou sighed. “Why are you hiding? Wang Laizi is not dead!”

The villagers looked at each other.

Only her mother, Madam Wan, came to her son in a daze. She raised her hand and touched her son's face. “It's warm… warm and alive… What, what's going on? You clearly stopped breathing just now…”

Su Ergou snorted. “He held it in!”

Madam Wan grabbed his wrist. “You have a pulse too. I couldn't feel it just now.”

Su Ergou casually threw a small iron ball to the ground. “Put this under your armpit and you can temporarily lose your pulse. What a petty trick!”

The villagers heaved a long sigh of relief. As long as he wasn't a zombie…

Speaking of which, what was wrong with Wang Laizi? He was alive and well, so why did he pretend to die and frame someone?

Madam Wan did not distinguish between right and wrong and embarrassed herself! Everyone collectively forgot that they had also wanted to chase Little Su's family out of the village.

The village chief asked solemnly, “Wang Dacai, why did you do that?”

Wang Laizi remained silent.

The village chief said seriously, “Everyone, disperse! Wang Dacai, Madam Wan, Chunya, come to my house!”

He was going to interrogate the family alone.

Everyone did not disperse so easily and rushed to the village chief's house to watch the commotion.

Su Cheng went too. He was going to beat up that bastard! Even though the bastard had already been beaten up by Su Ergou.

Su Ergou came to Su Xiaoxiao with a smile. “Sister, was I dashing just now?”

Su Xiaoxiao asked, “Who taught you?”

Su Ergou replied, ” Brother-in-law… ”

Wei Ting had not been in the central room for a long time. She thought that he was indifferent to her matter and had returned to the room to rest. She did not expect this.

Su Xiaoxiao asked, “How did he know that Wang Laizi isn't dead?”

Su Ergou said, “I don't know. I only found out when I went there! Brother-in-law said that he wanted to go to the crime scene to find clues!”

Wei Ting was much smarter and more meticulous than she had imagined.

Su Xiaoxiao looked around and asked, “Where is he?”

Chapter 44

Su Ergou pointed behind. “Brother-in-law left slowly. He was afraid that something would happen to you, so he asked me to bring Wang Laizi over first.”

Wei Ting's injuries had not completely healed. He still needed to lie in bed to recuperate. Occasionally, he would get off the ground and move around. He could only walk slowly with his walking stick.

When he went to Wang Laizi's house, he left in a hurry, and his leg was swollen in a short time.

On the way home, the snow fell harder. When Su Xiaoxiao found him, he was sitting on a large rock under the old pagoda tree, with his walking stick at the side.

Usually, this stone was a place for many villagers to chat and gossip. Su Xiaoxiao never felt that it was anything special, but tonight, when he sat down, she seemed to have an additional perspective of the place.

He had broad shoulders, a narrow waist, a tall figure, and long legs. His black hair was a little messy from the wind and snow, and it brushed past his handsome face. The scene was beautiful.

“Seriously, he's criminally seductive,” Su Xiaoxiao muttered and walked forward.

“Why are you sitting here?”

Wei Ting said calmly, “Looking at the scenery?”

Su Xiaoxiao was speechless.

Su Xiaoxiao sat down beside him.

Wei Ting glanced at her strangely. “What?”

Su Xiaoxiao looked at the pitch-black night. “Looking at the scenery.”

“Aren't you not cold?” Wei Ting asked.

Su Xiaoxiao spread her hands. “I'm fat. I'm fat not afraid of the cold. Are you asking me because you're cold?”

Wei Ting snorted and did not answer.

Su Xiaoxiao touched his hand.

Wei Ting frowned. “What are you doing?”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Your hands are so cold. Aren't you going back? Let's go! If you continue sitting, you'll become an ice popsicle!”

As she got up, she wanted to grab Wei Ting's walking stick and was surprised to find that it was broken.

“You…” She was stunned for a moment, then looked at his leg. “You fell?”

“No,” Wei Ting said expressionlessly.

Su Xiaoxiao squatted down and lifted his left trouser leg. She looked at his bloody knee and said, “You still say you didn't fall!”

The wound on his left calf was extremely deep. Although it would only require a superficial suture, it would still take some time to completely recover.

This was great. Not only did his calf not recover, but his knee was also grazed.

“Don't just sit there. Let's head back and apply the medication.” Su Xiaoxiao stood up and put away the broken walking stick with one hand while extending her other hand in front of him.

Seeing that Wei Ting did not move, she waved her chubby hand. “It's just an injured leg. Don't tell me you expect me to carry you? I'm a delicate girl! How can I carry a man like you?”

Wei Ting looked at her with a complicated expression.

In the end, Wei Ting still held her hand. The two of them walked home step by step against the snow.

After taking a few steps, Su Xiaoxiao said, “Alright, I take back what I said just now. I'm a 200-pound fatty. You can't break me. Don't be afraid to use force.”

Excessive pressure on his injured leg would worsen his injuries.

Wei Ting hesitated for a moment and leaned slightly against her.

Su Xiaoxiao thought of what happened tonight and coughed lightly. She said proudly, “Actually, even if you don't help me today, I can get away. I found an alibi for myself.”

Wei Ting sneered. “Who said I helped you? I'm helping Ergou. Don't flatter yourself and think too much.”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Hehe, who's thinking too much? Ergou is my brother. Does he need your help?”

Wei Ting said calmly, “He called me brother-in-law.”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “If he calls you brother-in-law, are you his brother-in-law? Then if I call you husband, are you my husband?”

Wei Ting said, “That depends on how you call me.”

Su Xiaoxiao stopped and looked at him deeply. She smiled. “Husband… ”

Wei Ting: “…How unpleasant.”

Su Xiaoxiao's face darkened.

The two of them continued walking. When they passed by Old Su's house, they bumped into Su Jinniang, who came out to pour water.

Su Jinniang looked at the two people in the snow and suddenly called out to Su Xiaoxiao.

“Su Daya!”

She put down the wooden basin and quickly walked to the two of them.

Su Xiaoxiao looked at her in confusion. “What's the matter?”

In her impression, she did not have much of a relationship with this village belle. The village belle looked down on her, and all the friends she liked went to curry favor with the village belle.

Su Jinniang looked a little nervous. She deliberately avoided looking at Wei Ting and stared at Su Xiaoxiao. “Why did you slander me just now? There's clearly nothing between me and Wang Laizi! Are you deliberately ruining my reputation? How did I offend you?”

The village belle was a little angry.

Su Xiaoxiao smiled. “Would you be willing to stand up for me if I didn't say that?”

Su Jinniang held her breath and glanced at Wei Ting from the corner of her eye. “I… Of course, I will.”

Su Xiaoxiao sneered. “Su Jinniang, do you think I'm blind? When the village chief asked for someone who can prove my innocence, you pulled your mother away. What do you have to say to that?”

Su Jinniang denied it. “I didn't pull my mother away!”

Su Xiaoxiao looked at the sky speechlessly. “Your mouth is on you. You can say whatever you want.”

Su Jinniang's face was filled with disappointment. “Su Daya, you've always been jealous of me since you were young and always went against me. I won't bicker with you, but I never expected you to use such a method to take revenge on me!”

Su Xiaoxiao looked at her in confusion. “No, Su Jinniang, what's wrong with you today?”

Su Jinniang lowered her eyes. “Forget it. You know what you've done. That's all I have to say. I hope you won't continue to do stupid things in the future!”

With that, she turned around and left without any reluctance.

A cold wind blew, bringing with it the faint fragrance of her rouge.

After taking three steps, she turned around and sized up Su Xiaoxiao.

“Also, don't learn to wear clothes like mine in the future.”

With that, she really left.

Su Jinniang was crazy! Exposing her shortcomings in front of Wei Ting?

“How ridiculous!”

Su Xiaoxiao patted the snow off her body and looked up to see Wei Ting looking at her without blinking.

She said righteously, “What are you looking at? Isn't it just a few pieces of clothing? Can't I wear what she wears?”

“You seem to have lost weight,” Wei Ting said.

Su Xiaoxiao was stunned. “Huh?”

Wei Ting pointed at her sleeve. “It was tight here previously. When you changed my dressing, there was a red mark.”

Su Xiaoxiao blinked. “Are you so observant of me?”

Wei Ting mocked, “I'm wary of your hidden weapons!”

A woman could definitely float after being praised for losing weight. She did not care if Wei Ting insulted her.

Su Xiaoxiao lowered her head and touched her stomach. “Now that you mention it, I do feel that my clothes aren't so full. Wei Ting, I've really lost weight!”

She looked up at him, her eyes sparkling with joy.

Wei Ting looked away and said calmly, “You're just a little thinner than before. You're still… ”

Su Xiaoxiao said fiercely, “Hold back your words!”

Chapter 45

“Where did you go just now?”

At Old Su's house, Madam Fang had just come out of her house when she saw Su Jinniang closing the door.

Su Jinniang pointed at the wooden basin in her hand. “Pour water.”

“You applied perfume?” Madam Fang smelled her daughter's rouge.

Su Jinniang lowered her eyes and said, “No, my ears are frozen. I applied some snow cream.”

Madam Fang nodded and said, “I think I heard you talking to someone just now.”

Su Jinniang said, “I bumped into Su Daya and said a few words.”

Madam Fang said unhappily, “What did you say to her? She framed you tonight.”

Su Jinniang said nothing.

Madam Fang thought to herself, “Is she married? I think this Fat Su is different from before. Her brain has become bright. Look at what she said to Madam Wan tonight. She's not stupid at all… I heard that she even went to town to do business.”

Su Jinniang said in a low voice, “What business can she do? Mother, don't listen to nonsense.”

Madam Fang said, “It's true. Someone saw her go to town with Ergou in the morning and come back in the afternoon. If she didn't earn money, where would she get the money to buy those grains and meat? Moreover, they haven't gone to the village to extort money recently.”

Su Jinniang leaned the wooden basin against the wall. “Isn't there still the betrothal gift that the He family returned? That money is enough for them to squander for a while. When they're done, they'll extort money from everyone like before.”

Madam Fang felt that her daughter's words made sense and sighed. “Aiya, what a sin. How did our village get into trouble with this family?”

—

In the Su family, the three little ones were standing under the corridor, looking in the direction of Wang Laizi's house.

It was dark and snowing hard.

When Su Xiaoxiao and Wei Ting returned home, they saw three anxious snowmen.

Wei Ting's heart suddenly softened. The few brats were not raised in vain.

Just as he was about to walk towards them, he saw the three of them running over and pouncing on Su Xiaoxiao.

Dahu and Erhu each held one of her hands. Xiaohu was a step slower. He wanted to pull her clothes, but he couldn't. He simply hugged Su Xiaoxiao's legs with his hands and feet.

Wei Ting's mouth twitched.

These brats…

Father Su wasn't back, so Su Xiaoxiao let the three children eat dinner first.

She went to the small east room to treat Wei Ting's wound.

Wei Ting was already used to her strange medicine.

As soon as she started practicing medicine, she seemed to have become a different person. She was serious and rigorous.

Su Xiaoxiao straightened up and took off her gloves. “You don't need stitches, but your old injury hasn't healed yet. Your left calf is swollen again. Do you need me to remind you to rest more?”

“Yes,” Wei Ting agreed calmly.

After a while, seeing that she was not leaving, he asked, “Is there anything else?”

As Su Xiaoxiao packed up the iodophor and cotton swabs, she said casually, “Just that Su Jinniang, she's the village belle of our village… Although she's only a little bit worse than me, I still have to give you a friendly reminder. You're my husband in name now. Don't cuckold me. You can't even think about it. Otherwise, I'll lose face.”

Wei Ting looked at the little fat peacock in front of him who was pretending to be proud and smiled. “Yes, she's better-looking than you.”

Su Xiaoxiao threw a pillow at him!

Scumbag!

A certain someone's exasperated look really made Wei Ting feel good.

How was Su Jinniang good-looking? He did not look at all.

In the central room, the three little ones slid down from the chair after eating and looked innocently at Su Ergou, who was guarding them.

“Uncle, I miss Grandpa,” Dahu said.

Su Ergou said, “My father will be back soon.”

“Grandpa.”

“I want Grandpa.”

“Grandpa.”

Su Ergou said, “It's snowing so heavily. You can't go. My sister won't let you go out.”

“Grandpa.” The three little ones were so aggrieved that they were about to cry.

Su Ergou surrendered. “Alright, alright, I'll call him back, alright?”

After Su Ergou left, the three little ones immediately carried their pillows to Su Xiaoxiao's house.

Su Xiaoxiao was sorting through the first aid kit.

“Mother, Dahu is sleepy.”

“Erhu is also sleepy.”

“Xiaohu… Xiaohu… is the most sleepy!”

“You're always the most hungry and sleepy,” Su Xiaoxiao said in amusement, “Go to sleep if you're tired.”

Dahu pointed at Su Cheng's room. “Grandpa, he's not here.”

Erhu pointed at Ergou's house. “Uncle, he's not here either.”

“It's so dark!” Xiaohu's expression of fear was exaggerated.

They had all gone out and no one knew when they would return.

Su Xiaoxiao held her forehead and sighed. She pulled open the blanket. “Alright, come up.”

The three little ones crawled onto the bed and lay down obediently under the blanket, sleeping contentedly.

About an hour later, the father and son returned covered in snow.

Su Xiaoxiao quickly went forward and patted the snow for the two of them. “Have you asked? What did Wang Laizi say?”

“Close the door,” Father Su instructed Su Ergou.

“Hey.” Su Ergou inserted the door bolt with his almost frozen fingers.

Father Su came to the brazier and told him about Wang Laizi.

“Zhang Dao did it.”

It turned out that all of this was Zhang Dao's idea.

After Zhang Dao was taught a lesson by the Su family's three tyrants, he had been holding a grudge. However, he did not dare to provoke them. He happened to have met Wang Laizi at the gambling den.

In a few rounds, Wang Laizi lost all his money and Zhang Dao lent him some . In return, he did something for Zhang Dao.

Wang Laizi did not dare to offend the Su family at first, but firstly, he owed Zhang Dao money. Zhang Dao threatened him that if he was disobedient, he would have to leave a hand behind.

Secondly, Zhang Dao told him that the Fifth Master of the prefecture city would protect the two of them. Even if they were exposed, the Su family would not dare to do anything to them.

According to the plan, Wang Laizi would pretend to be dead and cause a huge commotion, forcing the villagers to send Fatty Su to the government office.

Zhang Dao had brothers in the government office, and Su Xiaoxiao would be in trouble.

Even if Wang Laizi woke up miraculously a few days later, Su Xiaoxiao would have long been tortured in prison.

It had to be said that this move was really sinister!

If Su Xiaoxiao and Wei Ting hadn't reacted in time, the consequences would have been unimaginable!

Father Su and Su Ergou beat Wang Laizi up and left him hanging with half a breath. He could only resign himself to fate. He was not worthy of living after doing such a wicked thing!

As for Zhang Dao…

Su Ergou gritted his teeth. “I'll kill him tomorrow!”

“Tomorrow?” Su Cheng angrily grabbed his things and rushed to town with Su Ergou.

How dare he scheme against his daughter like this? Even if he had to pay with his life today, he would kill that bastard!

“Zhang, come out!”

Su Cheng kicked open Zhang Dao's door.

The courtyard was empty.

“Damn! He got away!”

Chapter 46

In the following days, Su Cheng would go to Zhang Dao's house every day.

Zhang Dao did not dare to return to town.

Su Xiaoxiao's business was booming, and her wife cakes had become a little famous on the streets. 100 pancakes a day was no longer enough but Su Xiaoxiao didn't increase the quantity. Instead, she added two new snacks-chestnut cake and egg yolk pastry.

Every time they would be sold out in less than two hours.

Manager Sun came to look for her a few more times, wanting to buy her formula, but Su Xiaoxiao didn't agree.

The academy's orders were increasing, and so was the braised food business.

She did not set the price cheaply, but she sold her goods. Moreover, because the braised food business was too good, the butcher's own pork business also prospered.

“This is for today.” Luo Dazhuang handed two strings of copper coins to Su Xiaoxiao.

Su Xiaoxiao counted the money and handed it to Su Ergou.

Luo Dazhuang said, “The market will be closed soon. It can only open after the 15th of January next year.”

The atmosphere of the ancient Chinese New Year was much thicker than in her previous life. Basically, shops and stalls began to close one after another in the middle of December.

“After I finish my business for the next few days, I'll come over on the 16th of January,” she said to Luo Dazhuang.

Luo Dazhuang wanted to say that he might not open on the 16th of January, but when he met the little fat girl's expectant gaze, he swallowed his words.

“…Alright.” Luo Dazhuang casually picked up a piece of pork belly. “There aren't many customers left in the market. This probably won't be sold. Take it back.”

This was high-grade plum blossom meat. It was not even noon, so how could it not be sold?

Su Xiaoxiao didn't expose him. She accepted the pork belly and handed him a bag of snacks.

It was not as a return gift for the plum blossom meat. She had prepared it early.

The interactions between people were very mysterious. Some cooperated because of benefits, while others because of their compatible nature.

“I'll leave first.” Su Xiaoxiao bade him farewell.

Luo Dazhuang opened his mouth and finally decided to stop her. “Um… If I didn't choose to share the profits with you, what kind of supply price would you have given me?”

“Yes.” Su Xiaoxiao thought about it seriously. “Every catty should be five copper coins less than the current price.”

“Is this the minimum supply price you mentioned? It's only five cents less?”

Most of the little girl's braised food was sold for 40 copper coins a catty. He could get eight copper coins if he split it 20-80.

The cheapest meat was 30 copper coins a catty. If he had to pay six copper coins, it would cost more than five copper coins.

Luo Dazhuang was glad. “Fortunately, I chose to split the profits!”

Su Xiaoxiao smiled. “Yes, you're very smart.”

Actually, it wasn't that Luo Dazhuang was smart. Su Xiaoxiao who had given him a white lie.

The real supply price was only half of the selling price. The reason why Su Xiaoxiao didn't tell him this was that it wouldn't help. It would only increase his regret.

After all, it was impossible for her to change the way she cooperated in the short term.

Regret was useless when it came to cooperation. If he carried emotions that he shouldn't, disagreements and conflicts would be inevitable over time.

He saw that business was good now and wanted reassurance that he would not regret it, so she gave him this reassurance.

–

Su Xiaoxiao collected the bill and went to the academy last.

After interacting with him for a while, Su Xiaoxiao had already learned his surname from the man. She called him Young Master Xiang.

“The sound in your lungs is gone. You're recovering well.” Su Xiaoxiao took the stethoscope off her ear. “You don't have to take any more injections. You just have to take the medicine.”

She could not hide the infusion. After all, it was impossible for the patient to be unconscious every time.

He had asked Su Xiaoxiao about her medical skills. Su Xiaoxiao only said that it was passed down from her master, so it was not convenient for her to say anything.

The world was big, and there were always experts and hermits.

Regardless of whether he believed her or not, she would stick to her story.

Fortunately, he did not question her medical skills after that.

Young Master Xiang smiled warmly. “It's all thanks to Miss Su this time. If not for Miss Su's medical skills, I'm afraid I would have died.”

Su Xiaoxiao said politely, “No, God helps the good.”

Young Master Xiang said, “Is Miss Su still coming over tomorrow?”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “I won't be coming tomorrow. I'll give you a prescription. I'll come back in three days to check on you.”

He did not need to take Western medicine anymore. Instead, Su Xiaoxiao used Chinese medicine to calm his breathing and cough, repair his blood essence, nourish his body, and stabilize his foundation. It was better this way.

“I see…” Young Master Xiang sighed regretfully.

“What's wrong?”

“In three days… I don't know if I'll still be in Apricot Town.”

“Are you leaving?” Su Xiaoxiao asked.

Young Master Xiang was silent.

Su Xiaoxiao thought for a moment and nodded. “That's true. You don't sound like a local.”

Young Master Xiang said, “To be honest, I'm from the capital.”

At the door, Jing Yi frowned and did not agree with his cousin revealing his background.

Su Xiaoxiao widened her almond-shaped eyes. “The capital. I've never been there in my life. What's the capital like?”

Young Master Xiang smiled faintly. “It's big and prosperous. There are many shops and the streets are very wide. There are fresh and interesting people and things, as well as dirty things.”

Su Xiaoxiao said thoughtfully, “It sounds like a complicated place.”

Young Master Xiang looked warmly at the little fat girl beside him. “Miss Su, are you interested in going to the capital?”

Jing Yi's handsome brows furrowed even more. What did her cousin mean? Did he want to take her back to the capital?

Su Xiaoxiao shook her head. “Not for now.”

She was still in the stage of settling her needs. How could she have the money and capital to go to the Imperial City?

“The capital must be very far, right? With your current condition, it's not suitable for you to travel. If possible, I hope you can completely recover before traveling.”

This was the truth. His foundation was weaker than ordinary people, not to mention that adult pneumonia was not a minor illness.

Young Master Xiang smiled. “Since Miss Su has said so, it's fine if I stay for a few more days.”

Jing Yi's expression was complicated.

“That's for the best.” Su Xiaoxiao handed him a prescription. “You can go to Physician Fu's house in Spring Willow Lane to get herbs according to this prescription. The quality of his herbs is good, and the price-quality ratio is high. He's honest.”

“Okay.” Young Master Xiang unfolded the words on it and took a look. “Miss Su… did you write this prescription yourself?”

Su Xiaoxiao said sternly, “Of course, I wrote it! Why? Do you think I don't know how to write?”

Young Master Xiang smiled. “No, it's Miss Su's handwriting. I was very surprised.”

Su Xiaoxiao curled her lips. That was all that guy could do.

Young Master Xiang said, “Changping, go get the consultation fee.”

“Yes,” Chang Ping agreed.

He didn't like Su Xiaoxiao and glared at her as he walked.

Su Xiaoxiao didn't care about a little attendant at all.

Su Xiaoxiao looked at Young Master Xiang and said, “You're quite easy to talk to, unlike your ice-faced brother. He's… the same as someone I know. He always has a cold face, as if someone owes him money.”

Jing Yi's face was as black as charcoal.

Chapter 47

Su Xiaoxiao didn't know that Jing Yi was at the door.

Young Master Xiang looked in the direction of the door and chuckled. “Yes, Jingyi has a bad temper. I'll teach him a lesson for you later.”

Su Xiaoxiao quickly waved her chubby hand. “No need, no need. He's your cousin after all. Don't make your brother unhappy because of an outsider like me. He's a little cold to me, but he's quite good to you.”

….

After Su Xiaoxiao left, Jing Yi walked in.

“Cousin, are you really not planning to return to the capital?”

Young Master Xiang did not say anything and only handed Jing Yi a secret letter.

After Jing Yi opened it, his expression turned solemn. “He actually…”

Young Master Xiang said, “The people we sent out all failed. Before the mission is completed, we can't return. And recuperating… is an extremely suitable reason. It won't arouse the suspicion of the capital.”

Jing Yi hesitated.

Young Master Xiang asked, “What's wrong?”

Jing Yi said bluntly, “You revealed a little too much to her.”

Young Master Xiang smiled and said, “Are you referring to how I told her that I'm from the capital? If she deliberately approached me, her expression wouldn't be so natural when I said that I'm from the capital.”

Jing Yi was enlightened. “So Cousin was testing her.”

Young Master Xiang gently rubbed the prescription that Su Xiaoxiao had left behind. “Her medical skills are too suspicious. Back then, Aunt was also unfortunately infected with lung disease. The treatment process was much longer and more dangerous than mine. However, from the looks of it, I was overthinking. She wasn't sent by any faction to approach me. She was just a little girl who had received guidance from an expert.”

“It's a young woman. She's married,” Jing Yi corrected.

Young Master Xiang frowned in surprise. “She's not old, but she's already married?”

Jing Y repliedi, “Hehe, not only is she married, but she also has three children!”

—

Su Xiaoxiao went to the room in front to find Shen Chuan.

Shen Chuan handed her the list of snacks he had reserved as usual. Su Xiaoxiao took the list and gave him three taels of silver.

“What's this for?” Shen Chuan asked.

“A commission,” Su Xiaoxiao said.

“Huh?” Shen Chuan did not understand. “What commission?”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “It means that I can't let you help for nothing. Just treat it as remuneration. You helped me book snacks and take care of Young Master Xiang's medicine. I haven't had the chance to thank you properly.”

Shen Chuan waved his hand. “It's nothing. Do you think I'm the kind of person who does things for money? Besides, my father can't wait for me to show my face in front of Young Master more often. I have to thank you for giving me this opportunity. This time, you cured Young Master's illness. My father is quite grateful to you. He just doesn't say it!”

Su Xiaoxiao pondered. “That young master…”

Shen Chuan looked around and whispered, “He has a powerful background. You've realized it too, right? Unfortunately, no matter how I asked, my father refused to reveal his identity!”

Curiosity killed the cat. The less one knew, the better.

Su Xiaoxiao smiled. “Take it. Otherwise, I won't dare to ask you for help again.”

Seeing how insistent Su Xiaoxiao was, Shen Chuan could only accept it.

Although he was the dean's son, his father was actually very strict. He only had 500 copper coins a month. Including the one tael that his mother had secretly given him, he did not even have one tael a month.

The feeling of earning money… seemed pretty good!

Su Ergou treated the academy as a good place to sleep. He was sleeping soundly on a chair soundly.

Su Xiaoxiao patted her silly brother awake.

Su Ergou wiped his saliva and asked in a daze, “Sister, is the list ready?”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “We can go back now. Young Master Shen, farewell.”

“Goodbye.” Shen Chuan suddenly thought of something and stopped Su Xiaoxiao. “By the way, Miss Su, do you know a student called Chen Haoyuan? I heard from the old man that you two had a long conversation at the entrance of the academy.”

The old man he was talking about was the old man who wanted to rob a pancake from Su Ergou.

Su Xiaoxiao asked, “What's the matter?”

Shen Chuan said, “The academy has to make recommendations for a few students study in the city. My father is considering choosing one between Chen Haoyuan and another student.”

….

Su Xiaoxiao brought the sleepy Su Ergou out of the academy.

Chen Haoyuan had just exited the bookstore opposite and saw the siblings at the entrance of the academy.

He frowned fiercely with a hint of disgust in his eyes.

His classmate followed his gaze. “Hey, aren't those the siblings selling snacks? Recently, many people in the academy have reserved their snacks. I've eaten them once too. The taste is not inferior to Jin Ji's, and it's even cheaper! Brother Chen, do you want to buy snacks too?”

“No,” Chen Haoyuan said indifferently.

He already knew that Su Xiaoxiao had come to the academy to sell snacks.

The status of a farmer, worker, and merchant was very low. Chen Haoyuan looked down on peddlers who smelled of copper.

Besides, what could that pair of siblings do?

Were their snacks better than Jin Ji's?

Who was the one who spread the rumors?

Chen Haoyuan warned, “Don't buy anything from her in the future! Be careful not to eat anything bad!”

His classmate said, “No, the snacks they sell are not just delicious. They're especially filling!”

Chen Haoyuan said calmly, “I can tell that you've never eaten good food!”

Coincidentally, Dean Shen came down from the study.

He was on the second floor just now, so the students usually couldn't go up.

“Dean!” His classmate noticed Dean Shen first and immediately turned around to bow.

Chen Haoyuan quickly composed himself and turned around to bow respectfully. “Dean.”

“Why are you standing at their door?” Dean Shen asked.

“We… were just looking at the siblings selling snacks,” the classmate replied. He couldn't say that they were talking about her behind her back.

Dean Shen looked at Su Xiaoxiao and Su Ergou, who were gradually walking away, and asked, “Do you know them?”

His classmate shook his head. “Not really. I've only eaten the wife cakes they sell.”

Dean Shen's gaze landed on Chen Haoyuan's face.

Chen Haoyuan composed himself and said seriously, “I don't know either!”

—

Dean Shen returned to the courtyard and first visited Young Master Xiang, who had just recovered from a serious illness. When he learned that he still needed to recuperate in the academy for a while, Dean Shen expressed that it was his honor.

He immediately instructed the servants to prepare the New Year goods. The New Year would be different due this time due to Young Master.

“Dad!”

Just as Dean Shen left the study, he bumped into the smiling Shen Chuan.

Dean Shen looked at the mud and snow on someone's feet and said coldly, “Where did you go?”

Shen Chuan said, “No, I was tired from studying and walked around. I know what to do next year!”

Dean Shen could not understand. Shouldn't a scholar be conscientious and focused? Why was his son like a monkey, running out every day?

If not for the fact that his son had attained some results in his learning, he would have tied him up and beat him up.

Shen Chuan smiled mysteriously. “Dad, let me tell you some news!”

Dean Shen was annoyed by his indecent appearance. He did not take after him at all.

Dean Shen said stiffly, “Speak.”

Shen Chuan smiled and said, “Chen Haoyuan from Class A of the academy is Miss Su's cousin! Do you want to consider recommending him to the prefecture city?”

Dean Shen frowned. “Are you saying that he's Miss Su's cousin?”

Chapter 48

Su Xiaoxiao and Su Ergou went to a food shop near the market.

On the way, Su Ergou asked his sister excitedly, “Sister, how many more days do we sell the pastries for?”

“Three days at most,” Su Xiaoxiao said.

As the new year approached, there were fewer and fewer customers in town. Their business did not seem to be affected, mainly because there were many return customers. Everyone was thinking of holding some new year's goods. Once the new year passed, almost no one came out to buy.

“Only three days?” Su Ergou was disappointed.

Su Xiaoxiao looked at him in amusement. “You like selling pancakes so much?”

“Yes.” Su Ergou nodded.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “It's cold and freezing and you're being told what to do. Don't you feel tired and annoyed? In summer, it's hot and you might get heatstroke. Don't you think it's better to lie at home?”

Su Ergou shook his head. “But I'll be hungry if I lie at home.”

Su Xiaoxiao sighed and touched the back of his head. “I won't let you go hungry again.”

With the launch of the new product, they needed more and more ingredients. Yesterday, she ordered 20 catties of glutinous rice noodles, 30 catties of white sugar, 50 catties of flour, and 100 duck eggs.

The salted egg yolk used for the yolk pastry was marinated by her. She did not know if salted duck eggs were sold in the capital, but there were none in town.

The moment the egg yolk pastry was out, it immediately became everyone's new favorite.

However, because the cost of the salted egg yolk pastry was too high, it was sold for 25 copper coins each. The students could reserve them for 23 copper coins each.

This price was still cheaper than Jin Ji's snacks, so they sold very well.

The two of them arrived at the grain shop and unexpectedly met Aunt Huang.

Ever since she got snubbed at Little Su's house, Madam Huang had hated Fat Lass Su. She had been thinking about how to get back at her, but coincidentally, this damn fatty came knocking on her door!

“Yo, I was wondering who it was. Isn't this that little heartless ingrate?”

Hearing Madam Huang's sarcastic words, Su Xiaoxiao couldn't help but laugh.

“What are you laughing at?” Madam Huang said with a dark expression.

Su Xiaoxiao smiled. “I'm laughing at you for not saying anything if you don't know how to speak, lest you embarrass your son.”

Madam Huang fell back in anger. “You!”

Su Xiaoxiao said bluntly, “What about me? First of all, Aunt didn't give birth to me, and second of all, you didn't raise me. Why did I become an ingrate? If you really want to call me an ingrate, aren't you more like an ingrate who sucked the blood, sweat, and silver of my deceased aunt and treated her children harshly?”

Madam Huang had long learned this girl's sharp tongue, but it was still infuriating to hear her speak again!

She pointed at Su Xiaoxiao's nose. “You, you, you… Damned girl, don't be too arrogant! Your cousin is going to the city to study! When he becomes the High Scholar, you'll see!”

If he passed the county examination, he would not have to kneel to the county magistrate. If he passed the examination, he would only be more glorious! Thinking of this, Madam Huang finally felt better.

She straightened her back and said, “Wretched girl, just you wait! The first thing your cousin will do is chase you out of town!”

How arrogant of him to chase her out of town! However, the High Scholar was indeed very rare in this dynasty, especially in such a remote town. It was a rare existence. It was not an exaggeration to say that the High Scholar is someone who had transformed into a dragon.

Could it be that Chen Haoyuan could really do it?

When Madam Huang saw Su Xiaoxiao in deep thought, she thought that she must have felt guilty and afraid.

Madam Huang was extremely proud!

Since Su Xiaoxiao had offended her, she would let her see how powerful she was!

“Girl! It's too late to regret it now! Even if you kneel down and beg me, I can't agree to your marriage with Erlang!”

Su Xiaoxiuao was incredulous. Who wanted to be her daughter-in-law?

Was Wei Ting not handsome anymore? Or was Wei Ting's waist not good?

However, Madam Huang was right about one thing. After Chen Haoyuan became the High Scholar, Little Su's family would definitely not have a good life.

Madam Huang said to the shop owner, “Don't do business with her. In the future, when my son becomes a High Scholar, he will come to your shop to buy!”

With that, she walked away triumphantly.

Su Ergou snorted. “You haven't achieved it yet, but you're already ordering people around. Boss, here!”

He handed the money bag to the boss.

Unexpectedly, the boss didn't respond.

“What's wrong?” Su Ergou asked.

The boss's eyes flashed and he stammered, “Y-You guys take the money back. There's no more flour. It's sold out.”

“Why isn't there any?” Su Xiaoxiao asked.

The boss said, “It was sold out this morning!”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “I reserved it yesterday. You should sell it to me first.”

“I…” The boss panicked under Su Xiaoxiao's gaze. He turned around and tidied up the food bag.” Anyway, go buy it elsewhere. I don't have it here! ”

Su Ergou said angrily, “Hey! You have to be honest when doing business! You didn't sell the flour we agreed on. What do you want us to make pancakes with? Don't tell me you really believe her. Her son is only a scholar. Who knows if he can achieve a ranking?”

The boss said awkwardly, “I have no choice. Miss, go buy it elsewhere!”

“You!”

“Forget it, Ergou, let's go.”

Su Xiaoxiao brought Su Ergou out of the shop.

Su Ergou said bitterly, “Sister, why are you stopping me? He's a man. How can he be frightened by a woman?”

“It's not Madam Huang,” Su Xiaoxiao said.

Su Ergou adapted to Su Xiaoxiao's change in address very quickly and felt extremely comfortable.

Su Ergou asked curiously, “If it's not her, what's going on? Why did the shopkeeper go back on his word and not sell it to us?”

Su Xiaoxiao had a guess. She thought for a moment and said, “Let's go ask another shop.”

There were originally many stalls selling flour in the market. They were all villagers from various villages. It was almost the new year, so they didn't set up stalls anymore. Su Xiaoxiao came to buy them.

Su Xiaoxiao remembered that there were two more nearby.

However, when they came to buy it, they all said that it was sold out.

“Isn't that a bag of white flour?” Su Ergou pointed at the bag of flour in front of the counter.

The boss of this shop smiled awkwardly and said, “That… was reserved by someone else. The money has been paid.”

“What about this?” Su Ergou found another bag of white flour behind the rice jar. “Why are you hiding it?”

The boss's smile was stiff. “It's for eating at home. It's almost the new year.”

The two of them came out of the third shop.

Su Ergou finally couldn't help but ask, “Sister, what's going on? In the past, it wasn't so difficult to buy flour previously.”

It was not a famine year. The price of food was stable, so there should not be a shortage of supplies. Moreover, there was no shortage of rice and wheat, only flour was unavailable.

It was really strange.

Su Ergou said, “I remember now. There's also a shop selling rice and noodles in the west, but it's a little far. Sister, wait for me here. I'll buy it!”

He picked up his basket and was about to leave.

Su Xiaoxiao shook her head. “No need. No one will sell it to us.”

Su Ergou was stunned. “Why?”

Su Xiaoxiao looked ahead and said calmly, “Our business is too good and is an eyesore to some people.”

Chapter 49

Su Ergou was furious. “Arent we just doing our business? Who are we offending?”

“Yo, Miss Su, Little Brother Su, what a coincidence.”

On the street ahead, Manager Sun alighted from the carriage leisurely and walked towards the two of them with a smile.

He looked at the siblings, who were wearing linen cotton clothes and were empty-handed in the cold wind, and the smile in his eyes deepened. “Are you guys here to buy things too? You don't seem to have bought anything. Is it almost the new year and the shops are out of stock?”

“What's it to you?” Su Ergou asked angrily.

Manager Sun smiled and said, “Brother Su, don't be so angry. We're all businessmen. Harmony brings wealth!”

Su Ergou said unhappily, “Who wants to make money with you?”

Manager Sun looked at Su Xiaoxiao.

Compared to her exasperated brother, this little fat village girl was much calmer. She was not surprised to see him, as if she had expected him to appear here at any time.

“Miss Su, what do you want to buy? If you can't buy it, tell me! I'm happy to help you!”

Manager Sun said righteously.

Su Xiaoxiao said calmly, “Aren't you a little too shameless?”

“Ah! It's you! It's you! You didn't let the shop sell flour to us!” Su Ergou finally reacted.

Manager Sun's smile faded a little, but he did not deny it.

Originally, only an evenly matched opponent was worth probing carefully. There was no need to be careful when dealing with two ants.

In the past, he cherished Jin Ji's reputation. In addition, the little fat village girl was in the limelight for saving his customer, so he wanted to buy her formula.

Unexpectedly, she mercilessly rejected him.

Manager Sun could tell that although Su Ergou was a man, the real decision-maker was this little fat village girl.

He looked at Su Xiaoxiao and smiled meaningfully. “Some people don't know how to appreciate favors and refused an easy way out. Miss Su, what do you think?”

Su Xiaoxiao said bluntly, “Tell me, what do you want?”

Manager Sun placed his hands behind his back and said proudly, “Jin Ji has been in Xinghua Town for 21 years and have lost countless peers. Business these days is easy to do but also difficult to sustain. It depends on who does it and how. For example, Miss Su, you have skills. Unfortunately, you're just a village girl. Anyone on the streets can easily crush you. Do you believe that with a word from me, no one will dare to sell flour to you within a hundred miles! A clever woman can't cook without rice. Without flour, what can you make pancakes with?”

Su Ergou said angrily, “Hey! You're too vicious! What's wrong with us selling our pancakes? You still have so many customers! Your business is still so good! I don't see you earning less!”

That was right and wrong.

Yes, Su Xiaoxiao's production was limited, and Jin Ji's sales were indeed not affected much in the short term.

What he had not realized was that Jin Ji's reputation was falling. After eating the snacks sold by Su Xiaoxiao, the customers would feel that Jin Ji wasn't worth this price.

“You did so much just for the formula.” Su Xiaoxiao hit the nail on the head.

Manager Sun's thoughts were exposed and he felt embarrassed for a moment. “Sigh, how can I answer that? I want to form a good relationship with Miss Su, but Miss Su has never given me a chance. Now that the boss has heard some news, I can't explain it to him.”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “I'm not interested in Jin Ji's internal matters. If you're only after the formula… ”

Su Xiaoxiao paused.

Manager Sun revealed a smile that gradually succeeded.

“Then I might have to disappoint you.”

Manager Sun suspected that he had heard wrongly.

What did the girl say? Was she going to disappoint him?

Now that things had come to this, was she still not going to compromise?

He looked at Su Xiaoxiao suspiciously. “You mean… ”

Su Ergou shouted, “My sister means that we won't sell the formula!”

Manager Sun shook his head. “Girl, you're too young. I'm afraid you haven't experienced the consequences of refusing a toast only to drink a forfeit. Don't think that just because I've been polite to you time and time again, you really think that I don't have a temper!”

Su Xiaoxiao had already experienced Manager Sun's temper the first time she saved the child.

He was not a good person. He only had business in his eyes and would do anything to achieve his goal.

He had contributed greatly to Jin Ji's business over the years. He had the talent but he lacked humanity.

Su Ergou took a few steps forward and stood in front of Su Xiaoxiao. He said to Manager Sun, “Who are you scaring? If you continue to be fierce to my sister, I'll beat you up!”

“Little brother Su… ”

“Who are you calling Little Brother? Is Little Brother something you can call? My sister said that it's not for sale! Even if you ask a hundred times, it's still not for sale!”

Manager Sun's smile turned cold again. “Miss Su, are you sure you want to go against Jin Ji?”

Su Xiaoxiao smiled faintly. “So in Manager Sun's eyes, I, a small village girl, am actually qualified to go against the dignified Jin Ji. Manager Sun, are you praising me or lowering your status?”

Manager Sun's expression froze. She was just a peddler from the countryside. Logically speaking, she would not catch Jin Ji's eye. How could a ferocious tiger care about an ant on the ground?

But he did care. Not only did he care, but it was like a fishbone in his throat.

Su Xiaoxiao looked at him. “You said it yourself just now. Harmony makes money, but I just didn't agree to sell the formula to you, and you're already making things difficult for us. Could it be that to Jin Ji, business isn't about mutual consent, but force?”

Manager Sun's expression turned even uglier.

This girl was so sharp-tongued that he could not win against her.

However, he was not here to reason with her today!

Manager Sun said in a low voice, “Girl, I'll ask you one last time. Are you selling the formula or not?”

Su Xiaoxiao said neither servile nor overbearing, “No. Even if you ask me a hundred times, I still won't sell.”

Manager Sun's eyes turned cold. “It seems that you plan to walk to your end!”

Su Ergou's years of fighting made him sense that something was wrong.

“What do you want?” he shouted.

Manager Sun snorted coldly and made a gesture. Seven to eight burly men immediately rushed out of the alley blocked by the carriage. All of them were fierce and looked like they wanted to beat someone into the mud.

“Sun, do you want to fight?”

He knew this!

Su Ergou rolled up his sleeves. “Sister! Let me do it! I haven't fought in a long time. My hands are itching!”

Su Ergou turned into a little bully of the Su family in a second.

There were many enemies, and it was difficult for Su Ergou to take advantage of them. Therefore, Su Ergou planned to capture Sun first.

However, the other party seemed to have expected him to do this and pounced at him.

Chapter 50

Without any moves, all of them used their bodies as a sandbag and pressed down on Su Ergou.

Su Ergou was pressed to the ground and could not move.

He gritted his teeth in anger. “Let go of me! Fight me openly if you dare!”

Su Ergou's combat strength was not that weak. However, that was only when both sides were fighting fairly. This group of people was shameless and did not give Su Ergou a chance to attack.

The side of his face was pressed into the cold snow. His teeth chattered and he struggled unwillingly. However, the more he struggled, the tighter he was pressed by the human sandbags on his body.

These days, it was not a chaotic world, but it was not a peaceful world where people did not close their doors at night. Without some means and shady methods, how could Jin Ji become the most powerful in town?

Su Xiaoxiao was furious, but she didn't show it on her face.

She was calm. She was so calm that it made one feel a chill. For some reason, Manager Sun, who was clearly in control of the situation, felt his heart skip a beat.

“Miss Su…”

He spoke.

Su Xiaoxiao said calmly, “Let go of my brother and I'll sell you the formula.”

Su Ergou was shocked. “Sister!”

Manager Sun smiled brightly. “Wouldn't it be fine if you said that earlier?”

His smile disappeared and he looked coldly at the burly men who were suppressing Su Ergou. “Did I ask you to attack Little Brother Su?”

“Aiyo! It's a misunderstanding!” The burly man in the lead was the first to get up and push his brothers away. “Get up, get up, get up! Everyone get up!”

The human-shaped sandbags stood up from Su Ergou's body. The burly man in the lead stretched out his hand to Su Ergou with a smile. “Little brother, are you alright? It was a misunderstanding just now. I apologize to you.”

Su Ergou glared at him coldly and ignored his hand. Instead, he got up and walked to Su Xiaoxiao.

“Sister, don't sell it!”

Manager Sun smiled and said, “Aiya, it's cold. Miss Su, shall we talk in the carriage?”

Su Xiaoxiao refused. “No need. I'm too fat. I'm afraid your carriage won't be able to accommodate me.”

Manager Sun was dumbfounded. Manager Sun knew that the other party was angry that he had bullied her brother, but he had no choice! If this girl had listened to him earlier, no one would have suffered.

Manager Sun said, “Miss Su… ”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Cut the crap. I can sell you the formula, but the price has to be satisfactory. Otherwise, don't even think about getting the formula!”

Manager Sun seemed to have heard a huge joke and even changed the way he addressed her. “Girl, do you think you're still qualified to negotiate with me?”

Su Xiaoxiao said seriously, “Manager Sun, this isn't a condition. It's my bottom line! I'd rather not do the snack business from now on than to sell my unique formula at a low price! If you think you can buy a better one, pretend I didn't say anything.”

“Ten taels,” Manager Sun said.

Su Xiaoxiao glanced at him. “Which formula do you want to buy?”

Manager Sun stretched out his finger. “All three!”

He wanted the recipes for the wife cake, chestnut cake, and egg yolk pastry!

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Ten taels. I can earn it back in ten days. Aren't you being too shameless?”

“Fifteen taels! No more!” Manager Sun said, “Miss Su, don't blame me for not reminding you. It's better to have a business than not. Don't be impulsive. You'll ruin your future by being stubborn.”

Su Xiaoxiao was not threatened by his words and remained calm. “Do you think I can't do anything if you cut off my flour? As long as I can buy wheat, I can make flour myself! Or do you think… your Jin Ji is so powerful that you can control all the wheat in town?”

Control the wheat… How was that possible? The ingredients that Jin Ji bought were flour, not wheat. At most, they could control the flour suppliers, but they could not extend their reach that far.

Manager Sun snorted. “Girl, you make it sound so easy. Do you really think it's that easy?”

Su Xiaoxiao said unhurriedly, “That's why I'm negotiating with you here. If you force me into a corner, I'd rather suffer a little, be tired, or even sell less than give up the formula!”

This little fat village girl!

Manager Sun clenched his fists. “Name your price!”

“Twenty taels!” Su Xiaoxiao said.

Manager Sun narrowed his eyes.

“A formula,” Su Xiaoxiao continued.

Manager Sun's expression darkened!

If one formula was 20, wouldn't three formulas be 60?

The formula they bought from the prefecture city back then had never been so expensive!

Manager Sun said angrily, “Twenty-five taels, three prescriptions! Girl! Don't think too highly of yourself! So what if you can make flour? I have many ways to make your business unable to continue!”

“Fifty taels!”

“Thirty!”

Su Xiaoxiao said coldly, “45. I won't do it if it's one copper coin less!”

Manager Sun's expression darkened.

Seeing that the situation was bad, the burly men at the side rubbed their fists and surrounded the siblings.

The meaning was obvious.

If she was any more arrogant, she would have to eat a punch.

However, Su Xiaoxiao didn't back down at all and held on to 45 taels.

This was at least 25 taels higher than Manager Sun's expectations.

Originally, he had brought so many people with him because he wanted to snatch it openly. He gave 20 taels of silver as hush money.

But these siblings were really tough.

Manager Sun threatened, “Girl, don't be ungrateful.”

Su Xiaoxiao said calmly, “Then let's fight, but you can forget about getting the formula!”

The leader rubbed his fists and walked over. “Master Sun, leave this to us. I promise to get the formula for you!”

Manager Sun raised his hand to stop him and said to Su Xiaoxiao, “Forty-five taels it is. Deal!”

….

Fifteen minutes later, the siblings left.

Manager Sun sat in the carriage and looked at the list that Su Xiaoxiao had dictated and that he had personally written. He smiled knowingly.

The leader stood outside and opened the curtain. “Master Sun, have you gotten it?”

Manager Sun dusted the piece of paper with the formulae in his hand and smiled proudly. “I finally got it. It wasn't easy.”

The burly man smiled and said, “Look at what you're saying. She's just a girl from the countryside. It's just a matter of moving your fingers to scare her. In the past, Master Sun was magnanimous and didn't get serious with her. Today, with us brothers, that little fat girl was so frightened that she didn't dare to move!”

On the surface, he was praising Manager Sun, but in fact, he was flattering himself.

Manager Sun was an old fox. How could he not tell? He was in a good mood today and could not be bothered.

The burly man asked hesitantly, “Master Sun, are these formulae… fake?”

Manager Sun glared at him. “What are you thinking? If she dares to give me a fake recipe, I'll immediately cut off her flour supply!”

The big man chuckled. “You have a point. I forgot about that.”

“That girl doesn't have the guts to fool me with a fake formula…” Manager Sun put away the formula.

However, perhaps because he was interrupted by his subordinates, he suddenly felt strange.

Chapter 51

On the way back, Su Ergou did not say a word. He was so silent that people forgot that he was a little bully who had once followed Father Su.

It was almost afternoon when they arrived at the village. Wei Ting was in the field with Father Su. The three children went to the village to play, and so did Meizi and Niudan.

Because of the formula, Su Ergou did not eat the food Su Xiaoxiao brought with her. He cooped himself in his room and did not come out.

Su Xiaoxiao thought for a moment and decided to make his favorite braised pork with preserved vegetables.

The pork belly and bean paste were ready-made. After braising them, she placed the dried plum vegetables on a tray and quickly prepared them.

Su Xiaoxiao cut the onions and sprinkled them. She wanted to call Su Ergou to eat, but after thinking about it, she brought the preserved vegetables to his room.

Su Ergou sat on the bed alone.

Since she transmigrated to this world, this silly brother had always been carefree. This was the first time Su Xiaoxiao saw him so sad.

Su Xiaoxiao knocked on the door. “Ergou, it's time to eat.”

Su Ergou turned around and wiped his face with his sleeve.

Su Xiaoxiao walked forward and looked at the back of his head strangely. “Are you… crying?”

“I'm not.”

Su Ergou choked.

He was really crying.

He did not cry when he was beaten up for her. He did not cry when he was pressed to the ground and rubbed against it. He did not cry when he took a cold shower and was so hungry that his eyes turned black. However, he did so when she sold a few formulas.

The child was crying.

Su Xiaoxiao did business for a living, so it didn't matter to her whether she sold snacks or formulae.

Su Ergou was different. He really liked selling pancakes. When the formulae was snatched away, it felt like someone had cut off his heart.

He stubbornly turned his face away and raised his head, not letting his sister see him crying.

Su Xiaoxiao sat down beside him and hooked his finger. “Are you blaming me for selling the recipes?”

Su Ergou's tears kept falling. “No, I'm useless! If I hadn't been caught by them, you wouldn't have handed over the formula!”

Su Xiaoxiao sighed. “How should I explain it to you? I'd have sold the formula whether you were captured or not. Not wanting you to be hurt at all is one thing. Secondly, I have my own plans.”

Su Ergou cried. “Nonsense! You clearly didn't want to sell it!”

Su Xiaoxiao said softly, “It's true. I didn't give in previously because I was waiting for an opportunity to raise the price. If I sold it easily, the people in Jin Ji would think that they had lost out. If they looked for me to cooperate in the future, they would push the price down. However, if I sold it when I was forced into a corner, no matter what price I shouted, it would seem like my bottom price. There's no one who doesn't like to take advantage of others. Just treat it as a means of marketing and negotiation.”

“I just didn't expect them to attack so quickly… Does it still hurt?” Su Xiaoxiao raised her hand to touch Su Ergou's cheek.

Su Ergou wiped his tears. “My heart hurts.”

Su Xiaoxiao was speechless.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Do you understand what I just said?”

“I understand… The recipes are gone… Ah…” Su Ergou wailed.

Su Xiaoxiao, “You're lonely…”

“There won't be any pancakes for sale-woo-”

Su Ergou was extremely sad. He felt that he had nothing to live for.

Su Xiaoxiao said patiently, “We can sell them. Jin Ji will sell theirs, and we sell ours. There's no conflict. Moreover, even if they take the recipe, theirs won't taste better than ours. Instead, they might bring fame to these snacks. Besides, the market is so big that we can't split them all. Don't forget that we still have the academy's business.”

“But it'll all be gone soon-we'll be poor again-”

Su Ergou cried very sadly.

“No.” Su Xiaoxiao quickly diverted his attention. “Don't you like to eat preserved vegetable braised meat? I made a big plate. It's all yours.”

“I can't eat… ” Su Ergou sniffed and looked at his sister with tears in his eyes. “Sister, what did you say you made?”

Su Xiaoxiao smiled and handed him a large plate of preserved vegetable braised meat and a pair of chopsticks. “Eat it while it's hot. You won't like it when it's cold.”

“Sister, eat too.”

“I'm not eating. You eat.” She wanted to lose weight.

“Oh.”

Su Ergou wiped his tears and started eating.

—

After coaxing her brother for a while, Su Xiaoxiao broke out in a sweat.

“Coaxing is a physical job.”

Anyway, who was the kid?

He was even harder to coax than the three children.

Su Xiaoxiao was about to return to her room to change her clothes when she turned around and saw the three children at the door. They were sticking their round heads out and looking in.

She had to stop herself from saying, “Ergou, your image is gone. From now on, you are Uncle Crybaby.”

Su Ergou had cried for so long and had exhausted a lot of energy. At this moment, he was burying his head in the dried meat and did not notice the three little ones eavesdropping in the corner.

Su Xiaoxiao brought the three little ones to the central room. Meizi didn't go far and watched them from the door. When she saw Su Xiaoxiao, she went back shyly.

The three little ones had gone somewhere to play and were sweating profusely.

Su Xiaoxiao brought over a dry towel and wiped the three of them.

“Are you hungry?” she asked.

In the past, the three of them would have nodded in unison.

This time, they didn't. The three of them looked straight at her.

“What's wrong?” she wondered.

The three of them did not speak and ran back to Su Ergou's room.

Su Xiaoxiao thought that they had gone to look for Su Ergou and did not think too much about it. She returned to the house to change into fresh clothes.

Just as she opened the door to the kitchen, she saw the three children standing at the door with their small bags.

“For Mother,” Dahu said.

“Giving to Mother too,” Erhu said.

“And Xiaohu” Xiao Hu also stuffed his small bag toward Su Xiaoxiao.

Su Xiaoxiao looked confused. “Do you want to leave your luggage with me?”

The first time she saw the three little ones, they were each carrying such a small bag.

They were arranged to stay in Su Ergou's room, so the luggage was placed at Su Ergou's side.

The three of them pulled Su Xiaoxiao into the room and gestured for her to open the bag.

Su Xiaoxiao placed the three small bags on the table. “Do you want to change your clothes?”

As she asked, she casually opened the first bundle.

It was Xiaohu's.

Xiaohu's stood on his tiptoes and pulled out a small cotton vest from the bag.

Su Xiaoxiao thought that he was going to wear this and was about to bring it over for him to change into when she saw his small hand digging into the small cotton vest.

He dug out a few small silver coins.

He threw away the cotton vest and grabbed a pair of cotton pants. From the pants, he dug out a few more small pieces of silver.

As Xiaohu dug out more than ten pieces of silver, Su Xiaoxiao's eyes widened.

“Mother, Mother!” Erhu also wanted to open the small bag.

Su Xiaoxiao opened it for him in a daze.

He was not like Xiaohu, who was picking at the seams of his clothes. Instead, he unbuttoned his pocket and took out two golden leaves.

Su Xiaoxiao was speechless.

Dahu's was even more awesome. His hat had two layers. After taking off the inner layer, he shook out five white banknotes!

Then, he took off his small shoes and dug out a token that was glowing with black light from under his shoe!

Su Xiaoxiao was speechless.

Su Xiaoxiao's mouth was wide open for a long time.

The case was solved.

Father Su did not find a single copper coin on Wei Ting. So it was in the hands of these little fellows?

No, the scattered money and banknotes of different values did not seem to have been given by Wei Ting. They were more like what the children had hoarded.

Su Xiaoxiao actually didn't understand why she had made that assumption. It was just her intuition.

Their extraordinary sense of crisis sometimes made people feel that they were not carefree children.

The carefree look was especially obvious on Niudan next door, and Little Meizi, who had always been looking at people's expressions.

In order to verify her guess, she asked, “Does this money belong to your father?”

The three of them shook their heads.

“Does your father know?”

The three of them shook their heads again. It seemed that they had been hoarding it. She couldn't help but think that they were three squirrels that hoarded money.

It sounded funny, but Su Xiaoxiao felt sad. What had the three little fellows experienced to have such crisis awareness and the habit of hoarding money?

Did they think that their family was out of money and were worried that she would starve, so they took out all the money they had painstakingly saved for her?

Su Xiaoxiao's heart felt like it had been rubbed by a warm hand.

She looked at the three little ones who wanted to give her all their belongings and was momentarily at a loss for words.

Of course, she couldn't take their little money.

Not to mention that she still had money for the time being, even if she didn't, she couldn't be greedy for the children's.

She gently pushed the money back on the table and touched their heads. She said softly, “Dahu, Erhu, Xiaohu, take your money back.”

“For Mother,” Dahu said.

Xiaohu waved his hand seriously. “Mom, I'm not hungry.”

Erhu patted his belly. “Erhu, eat less.”

They wanted to eat less and not let their mother starve.

Chapter 52

Su Xiaoxiao wasn't a sentimental person, but perhaps because of her special physique, her eyes suddenly felt hot.

She hugged the three little ones and said gently, “I won't go hungry. I have money.”

The three of them did not believe her. So Su Xiaoxiao had no choice but to take out the money she had earned from selling the formula and the consultation fee she had earned from Young Master Xiang. “Alright, I'll drop the consultation fee in front of the three of you.”

The three of them counted the silver ingots seriously.

After confirming that their mother had a lot of money and was not short of money to spend, they reluctantly nodded in satisfaction.

Su Xiaoxiao looked at the three of them and said in amusement, “Keep the money well. I'll come and ask you for it one day when I don't have money to spend.”

The three of them thought about it and felt that it was feasible. They temporarily took back the money. However, the ugly black plaque was forgotten by Dahu with a look of disdain.

The three of them returned to Su Ergou's house and chased Uncle Ergou out to hide the small bag!

….

In the afternoon, snow began to fall again.

Wei Ting and Su Cheng returned from the ground. The three little ones were sleeping. It was unknown if it was an afternoon nap or a late nap.

The two of them entered the house covered in snow.

As his body gradually recovered, Wei Ting's complexion became much better, making him look even more imposing and handsome.

Su Cheng was actually not bad-looking. If not for his fierce reputation, who knew how many people would want to be stepmother to her and Ergou?

“Father, didn't I tell you not to bring him along? He fell on his leg. He has to use less strength.”

He had fallen when he caught Wang Laizi last time. His knee was broken and his calf injury almost relapsed.

Father Su's eyes flashed as he touched his high nose bridge. “My son-in-law wanted to go himself! Ask if you don't believe me!”

Su Xiaoxiao turned to Wei Ting. “Wei Ting.”

“Aiya! I'm so hungry! Is there food in the kitchen!” Father Su slipped away decisively.

Only Su Xiaoxiao and Wei Ting were left in the central room.

For some reason, the atmosphere suddenly… became strange.

Wei Ting's aura was proportional to his recovery, and his powerful presence was becoming harder and harder to ignore.

His back was against the light, and his well-defined eyebrows were slightly hidden in the darkness. His calm and sharp eyes were like sharp blades waiting to be unsheathed, filled with cold sharpness.

He looked at Su Xiaoxiao.

Su Xiaoxiao looked at him. “What?”

He used Su Cheng's new walking stick to point behind Su Xiaoxiao. “You are blocking me from entering the room.”

“Oh.”

Su Xiaoxiao turned around and entered his room.

Wei Ting was speechless.

Wei Ting thought that she was there to change his dressing and did not say anything. He followed her into the house.

Just as he sat down, Su Xiaoxiao took out a token and handed it to him. “Is it yours?”

The moment he saw the token, Wei Ting's expression changed. “Where did you find it!”

Su Xiaoxiao took the token back and patted it on her palm. “Tell me what this is first.”

Wei Ting looked at her deeply and suddenly relaxed.

This was one of the most important tokens he had. He had thought it was in the hands of that group, but who would have thought it was in her hands?

“Did the three of them give it to you?”

He clearly remembered that those people had snatched his bag away. If the token was still there, there was only one possibility. The three brats had hidden it.

“No, I… picked it up myself!”

“Heh!”

He was sure it was given by the brat! The little brat took his token and didn't give it to him. Instead, he gave it to a girl he just knew. This was too much!

Wei Ting said calmly, “I picked it up myself. If you have the ability, get one yourself.”

Su Xiaoxiao shook her head proudly. “Don't bully me because I can't read. I've learned a lot of words recently!”

Wei Ting's lips curled up. “Oh, you mean the names on the list? Those were only a few words.”

Su Xiaoxiao's face darkened.

These days, she had learned a lot of words under the pretext of getting Wei Ting to read the list, but he actually said… only a few words?

Who was he looking down on?

As if seeing her anger, Wei Ting smiled faintly and raised his eyebrows at the token in her hand. “Admit it.”

To hell with admitting!

If she knew, would she have asked him?!

Su Xiaoxiao took a deep breath and smiled. “It's fine if you don't want to tell me. At most, I'll ask Shen Chuan tomorrow morning!”

With that, she kept the token and turned to leave!

Wei Ting had heard about Shen Chuan from Su Ergou. He was the son of the dean of a small academy and was still wet behind the ears.

Wei Ting said casually, “If you don't want to die, go ahead and ask.”

Su Xiaoxiao stopped in her tracks and looked at him suspiciously. “Don't scare me.”

Wei Ting smiled coldly. “If you dare to hedge it on the lives of your entire family, I won't stop you.”

Su Xiaoxiao clenched her chubby fists. “I'll figure it out one day! Before that, I'll keep this thing!”

“Up to you.” Wei Ting leaned against the head of the bed nonchalantly, moved his injured leg up, and began to rest.

Su Xiaoxiao wanted to beat him up.

Forget it. No matter what, at least she had something to use against him. The more he acted like he didn't care, the more it proved that this thing was important to him.

After Su Xiaoxiao left, Wei Ting slowly opened his eyes, which were cold.

He had to find a chance to get the token back!

—

Su Xiaoxiao went to the kitchen to eat a corn cob and start cooking dinner for the family.

Ever since Wei Ting said that she had lost weight (a little), her confidence in losing weight had increased. She had not touched sugared water for many days and used coarse grains as her main food.

Tonight, she planned to steam a pot of sweet potato brown rice.

Halfway through cutting the sweet potato, the three children ran in hurriedly and threw themselves into her arms, looking frightened.

“What's wrong?” she asked.

Before the three of them could speak, Big Wu shouted from next door, “Eat! You only know how to eat!”

“Woo-”

It was Little Meizi crying.

Big Wu was hitting the children of the eldest branch again.

“Grandma! Don't hit my sister!”

Big Meizi was trying to stop the fight. Unfortunately, not only did she fail to stop Big Wu, but she also received a beating.

“Eat sugar, Grandma Wu. Fight!” Dahu gestured.

The cause of the incident was that Little Meizi had eaten a piece of Niudan's sugar. When Big Wu found out, she hit her.

However, this was actually just what the child saw. The real reason was that Liu Ping had returned from town for the new year and did not bring back much money. Big Wu was dissatisfied and took the opportunity to vent her anger on the three-year-old Little Meizi.

At this moment, the men at home had gone out. Little Wu was packing clothes in the front yard. When she heard her two daughters crying, she hurriedly put down what she was doing and went to the kitchen.

This time, Little Wu did not swallow her anger like before. Instead, she argued with her mother-in-law.

“Mother! Little Meizi only ate half a piece of sugar. Do you have to be so harsh?”

“Aiyo, your man is back and someone is backing you up so you dare to talk back to your mother-in-law! Do you know how expensive sugar is? You even dare to steal it!”

“She didn't eat it secretly! Niudan had thrown it on the ground!”

“Did you talk back?”

Big Wu slapped Meizi.

Chapter 53

“Are you worried about Sister Meizi?” Su Xiaoxiao asked the three little ones.

The three little ones nodded honestly.

The eight-year-old Big Meizi was like a sensible parent who would take care of the three little ones with Little Wu.

After all, this was the Liu family's matter. Unless Liu Ping's family became stubborn, Su Xiaoxiao could help them once or twice, but she could not help them forever.

“You are both useless! You can't earn much money, but you're still adding expenses to the family! I don't think you should cook dinner! Just eat all the wind!”

Every word of Big Wu pierced Little Wu's heart like a needle.

That's right. She couldn't give birth to a son, so she deserved to be unable to raise her head. She deserved to be someone's slave. She deserved to implicate her two daughters and be beaten and scolded!

She really wanted to go back to her family, but even her family advised her not to cause too much trouble. She just had to endure it.

But in recent days, she couldn't take it anymore…

Little Wu's sudden suppression and silence caused a strange feeling to surge in her heart.

“Are you mute!” Big Wu shouted.

“Mother.” Little Wu hugged her two trembling daughters and whispered, “If you really don't like us, we'll split up.”

Big Wu's expression changed. She pointed at her nose and said, “You little hussy, what did you say?”

Little Wu mustered her courage and looked at her mother-in-law with tears in her eyes. “I said that we'll split up.”

Big Wu cursed, “Your father and I are still here, yet you dare to mention splitting up. Are you trying to curse us to death? You heartless thing!”

It was a rule in the countryside that families would not be split up if the parents were still around.

Moreover, if they really split up, they would not be able to get their hands on Liu Ping's salary and no one would do the work at home!

Big Wu grabbed the rolling pin and hit Little Wu fiercely!

“Mother!” Big Meizi exclaimed.

Suddenly, a fat hand grabbed Big Wu's rolling pin.

Big Wu turned around. “Fatty Su?”

She gritted her teeth and moved her arm.

Su Xiaoxiao easily grabbed her rolling pin. “Why? Do you want to attack me?”

Of course, Big Wu did not dare to attack Fat Lass Su!

Su Xiaoxiao coldly snatched the rolling pin from her hand with a vicious and impatient expression.

Facing the fierce Fatty Su, Big Wu did not even dare to fart! This was what it meant to bully the weak and fear the strong.

Su Xiaoxiao knocked on the door with her rolling pin and said indifferently to Little Wu, “Hey, Wu, I asked you to wash clothes, but you ran away halfway?”

Little Wu lowered her head and said nothing.

“If she doesn't want to wash up, you will do it!” Su Xiaoxiao pointed at Big Wu fiercely.

Big Wu would not go! What was wrong with Fatty Su? She hadn't done anything evil for a while. Why had she returned to her former self?

Big Wu turned around and grabbed a cloth to wipe the stove.

Little Wu went to the Su family from the back door of the kitchen gloomily. The two children followed.

Big Wu wanted to leave the two little ones behind, but Fatty Su glared at her coldly and she stopped talking.

With her man at home, she might be able to deal with the situation. When she was on her own, she didn't dare to be unreasonable with Fatty Su.

Su Xiaoxiao left.

When Big Wu looked over furtively, Su Xiaoxiao casually threw the rolling pin back and it hit the Big Wu's head.

“Ouch-”

A huge bump immediately appeared on Big Wu's forehead!

—

At the Su family, the Meizi sisters sat on the small bench in the kitchen. The two of them had stopped crying.

The three little ones generously took out their snacks to entertain the two of them. Big Meizi did not eat it, and Little Meizi was especially satisfied as she nestled in her sister's arms and ate.

Little Wu sat behind the stove and helped to add wood to the stove.

Su Xiaoxiao continued to cut the sweet potatoes.

“Have you really decided to split?”

Su Xiaoxiao asked.

The three little ones and Little Meizi buried their heads in the snacks while Big Meizi glanced at her mother.

Little Wu nodded calmly. “Yes, I've decided.”

In the past, she would not dare to leave the Liu family. Not only would she and Liu Ping be criticized by the villagers, but they would also face a situation where they had nowhere to go.

Little Wu asked, “After we split up, will you still want me to work at your house?”

Su Xiaoxiao said without thinking, “Yes.”

Such an outstanding employee was equivalent to three. Why not?

Little Wu seemed to understand where her confidence in splitting up came from. If not for Su Daya, she might not dare to mention splitting up with the Liu family for the rest of her life.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “If Liu Ping doesn't mind, you can come to my place to try for two days.”

Little Wu's eyes lit up. “You mean… you want to hire Liu Ping to do work?”

“It depends on whether he can do it or not.” Su Xiaoxiao did not make it clear.

Little Wu hurriedly said, “Yes, yes! He can endure hardships!”

If both of them could work, it would not be a problem to support the two children!

Su Xiaoxiao nodded. She thought of something and asked, “Have you mentioned the separation to Liu Ping?”

Little Wu said, “I did. He didn't object.”

It was obvious how difficult it was for a stepson to survive under his stepmother.

In Su Xiaoxiao's memory, Liu Ping was an honest person. He was hardworking and could endure hardships, but he was a little stubborn.

However, he had never complained that Little Wu could not give birth to a son. He doted on his two daughters very much, and the couple had a good relationship.

“It's…” Little Wu hesitated.

“What is it?” Su Xiaoxiao asked.

Little Wu bit her lip and said in a low voice, “If we really split from the Liu family, it will be unpleasant. If we work at your house, we might implicate you…”

Su Xiaoxiao shrugged her round shoulders. “Oh, you're talking about reputation? Does our Su family have that?”

Little Wu was speechless.

—

Little Wu stayed at Little Su's house until her father-in-law and husband returned. Although her father-in-law was also biased towards the second wife, Big Wu more or less restrained herself and would not beat her and the children to death with him and Liu Ping around.

Su Xiaoxiao didn't hide Little Wu's matter from her family. After all, she might hire the two of them to work openly in the future. She had to inform her family.

After hearing Su Xiaoxiao's words, Father Su probably thought of his past with his wife and the Chen family. After a long silence, he sighed. “It's good to split up.”

… .

As he was still upset about the formula, Su Ergou was not in a good mood. He ate less than usual for dinner.

Seeing how pitiful he was, the three children sighed and climbed into his bed with pillows. They decided to sacrifice themselves to sleep with him tonight and coax Uncle Ergou.

The family rested one after another, but Su Xiaoxiao didn't sleep.

She went to the kitchen and cleaned up the dishes before preparing the ingredients for tomorrow.

Then, she took out the dough that she had distributed in the afternoon. As it had been placed near the stove, the temperature was higher than outside. It had already fermented.

In addition, the hind leg meat in the pot was ready. She scooped it out and placed it on the chopping board. She pulled out the rolling pin from the cupboard.

When Wei Ting walked into the kitchen with his walking stick, he saw a little fat girl working seriously.

Chapter 54

It was the first time he had seen her cook.

“Eh? You're not asleep?”

Su Xiaoxiao casually looked up and saw Wei Ting standing at the door.

Wei Ting restrained his expression and walked in with his walking stick. “I'm a little hungry.”

Su Xiaoxiao nodded and didn't doubt him. “You came at the right time. Help me add some firewood.”

She thought that with this guy's personality, he would definitely reject her disdainfully. Unexpectedly, he silently sat down on the small stool in front of the stove.

He placed his walking stick aside and took the dry firewood from behind him and threw them in one by one.

Su Xiaoxiao raised her eyebrows in surprise. “You're so obedient tonight.”

Wei Ting asked, “Is there anything to eat?”

Su Xiaoxiao continued to cook. “Yes, but you have to wait a while. I'm not done yet.”

Wei Ting began a long wait.

Su Xiaoxiao flattened the cooked lean meat and tore it into pieces.

Wei Ting looked at her strangely. Not only did she have medical skills that he had never heard of, but she also often cooked dishes and snacks that he had never eaten.

This was most likely a new trick. He wondered what it tasted like. Usually, he only ate. This was the first time he watched her cook seriously.

She was also very serious when cooking, but it was different from the seriousness when she was practicing medicine.

“You like cooking very much?”

“Because it relieves stress.”

What kind of words were those? Yes, this woman often said things that he did not understand.

Su Xiaoxiao placed the shredded meat into the pot and stir-fried it with salt, sugar, and a little soy sauce until it was fluffy.

“Try it.”

She handed the plate to Wei Ting.

“Chopsticks,” Wei Ting said.

“You're so particular!” Su Xiaoxiao curled her lips and turned around to take a clean pair of chopsticks from the cupboard.

Wei Ting picked up a small piece of meat and slowly tasted it.

“How does it taste?” Su Xiaoxiao asked him.

He chewed carefully. It was salty with a hint of sweetness. It was rustling and not considered oily, but it was not dry either. He could not say what the texture was, but the taste was very novel and unique.

He couldn't help but take another bite. The more he chewed, the more fragrant it became.

“What is this?” he asked.

“Meat floss!” Su Xiaoxiao said with a smile. “How is it? It tastes good, right?”

“Not bad,” Wei Ting said calmly.

Su Xiaoxiao was already used to this. She snorted and brought back a large plate of meat floss.

Wei Ting's chopsticks reached for the meat floss but missed.

Su Xiaoxiao hugged the plate and raised her eyebrows at someone. “If you say that it's delicious, I'll give it all to you!”

Wei Ting said expressionlessly, “Childish!”

“Hmph!” Su Xiaoxiao shook her head proudly, put down the meat floss, and brought out a bowl of chestnut filling.

This bowl of chestnut filling was made by Little Wu when she was taking refuge here. It was really dense and exquisite.

Most importantly, Little Wu was hygienic enough to meet her standards of cleanliness.

Su Xiaoxiao cherished this employee too much.

Su Xiaoxiao fried a chestnut meat pancake and continued to let Wei Ting taste it.

“Well?” she asked.

“It seems a little too salty to taste the chestnuts,” Wei Ting said.

“Then I'll put less meat floss.” She made another.

“Too sweet,” Wei Ting said.

“Too much sugar.” She reduced the sugar and chestnuts and handed the third pancake to Wei Ting. “What about this time?”

After tasting it carefully, Wei Ting said, “The filling is just right. The skin is a little hard.”

Su Xiaoxiao thought for a moment. “It's too hot… put less firewood.”

Next, she made egg yolk meat floss filling, honey date meat floss filling, and meat floss filling with red bean and green bean.

Wei Ting was stuffed to death.

Was this woman done? When was she going to go?

“Which is the best?” Su Xiaoxiao asked him with a face full of flour.

To be honest, Wei Ting's image was not much better than hers. His face was black from the soot, but he did not know it.

“They are pretty much the same,” he said.

Su Xiaoxiao continued, “Which do you think Ergou will like the most?”

Wei Ting was surprised. “You made these for Ergou?”

Was all this fiddling for most of the night was for Su Ergou?

Perhaps because it was late at night and one's inner defense was lowered in the narrow space, Su Xiaoxiao told Wei Ting about selling the formula.

“My mother… my mother, when I was very young, gave her partner a gift that belonged to me. She used my things to please him in order to do business. I was very sad.”

Wei Ting said, “The formula is yours. You're selling your own things.”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “It's the same.”

She did not know that selling the formula to Su Ergou would be such a huge blow. In her opinion, it was just a few formulas. She had a lot of ideas. After selling the old ones, there would be new ones.

Back then, her mother probably had the same thoughts as her today-it was just a small gift. At most, she would buy her a better one when she earned money in the future.

“You made all these snacks to make Ergou happy?”

Su Xiaoxiao nodded and sat down on the stool beside him. She muttered, “He'll really be sad for a long time.”

The light from the stove reflected in her melancholic eyes, making her look a little lonely.

Wei Ting turned to look at her.

At this moment, he suddenly felt that she was a pitiful little girl.

Well… a chubby pitiful little girl.

Su Xiaoxiao continued to cook. She wanted to make a unique taste. And Wei Ting would risk his life to accompany her.

The two of them took turns testing the food and were half-full.

After midnight, she was finally done. She sat beside Wei Ting to rest.

The sleepiness of her chubby body came easily. She tilted her head and fell asleep on Wei Ting's shoulder.

Wei Ting frowned and raised his slender fingers to poke her head.

Her head swayed and she leaned in again.

Wei Ting poked her again, and she leaned on him again.

This happened a few times, but she did not move her head away. His shoulder hurt.

Wei Ting took a deep breath and said coldly, “Hey, Su Daya, wake up.”

Su Xiaoxiao slept soundly.

“Su Daya.”

“It's dawn. Time to do business.”

No matter how Wei Ting tried to rouse her, her even breathing was the only response.

He had finally waited until now.

Wei Ting looked coldly at Su Xiaoxiao, who was leaning on his shoulder and raised his hand to untie the pouch on her waist.

He did not find the token in his pouch.

“That's strange. Where did you put it?”

He searched her sleeve again. Nothing, either.

Did she put it in her pocket?

Wei Ting's gaze drifted to her slightly heaving chest. He frowned and looked away. The experience of being suffocated appeared in his mind and he felt a little embarrassed.

However, finding the token was more important.

He gritted his teeth and reached into her cotton shirt.

Su Xiaoxiao suddenly opened her eyes and looked at Wei Ting in a daze before looking at the hand that had reached into her clothes. “You touched me?”

Wei Ting's eyelashes trembled. Seeing that she was obviously still asleep, he said calmly, “No, you're just dreaming.”

Su Xiaoxiao, who was in a daze, said in a daze, “In your dreams…”

Then she had to touch him back.

Wei Ting was shocked when Su Xiaoxiao tugged at his belt!

Chapter 55

Did this woman know what she was doing?!

Even in a dream, she shouldn't casually pull on a man's belt!

She thought she was dreaming!

If Su Xiaoxiao was awake, she would definitely retort, “Didn't you attack first?”

Unfortunately, this body was too weak. Su Xiaoxiao had stayed up most of the night, and her current state was not much different from sleepwalking.

Wei Ting grabbed her chubby hands and gritted his teeth. “Su Daya!”

Su Xiaoxiao stared at him and looked down. “Wow!”

She broke free from Wei Ting's hand and reached down-

Wei Ting's face turned pale as he knocked her out with a karate chop!

—

Su Xiaoxiao slept until dawn. She looked at the sunlight coming in through the window and her mind buzzed.

This feeling was like having a hangover. It was strange.

“I… wasn't I making pancakes in the kitchen? Why am I sleeping in my own bed?”

She scratched her head, not understanding.

“Ahhh! Don't snatch my pancakes!”

It was Su Ergou's voice.

Su Xiaoxiao came back to her senses. “It's time to go out! Oh no! I haven't made snacks!”

She quickly lifted the blanket and got off the bed. Her clothes were neat. Could it be that she was too tired last night and fell asleep after returning to the room?

The three little ones fought with Su Ergou for the pancakes in the kitchen. Although they were small, they had six little demonic claws. There was no way Su Ergou could win.

“Mine, mine! They're all mine! My sister made them for me! Brother-in-law said so!”

“How old are you to fight with a child!”

Father Su knocked his son on the head and carried the plate to the three children.

Wei Ting sat in the backyard wiping his walking stick with a cold and terrifying aura.

Those who knew would say that he was wiping his walking stick. Those who did not know would think that he was wiping his bow and arrow.

Su Xiaoxiao came to his side and looked down at him.

“Wei Ting.”

“What are you doing?”

Su Xiaoxiao was deep in thought. “When I saw you, I suddenly remembered a dream I had last night.”

Wei Ting stopped wiping his walking stick and said coldly, “I'm not interested in your dream.”

Su Xiaoxiao walked around him and squatted down. She looked up at him. “But I dreamed of you. You touched me.”

Wei Ting glanced at her coldly. “Is it possible for me to touch you?”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “I don't think it's possible either.”

Not to mention that Wei Ting was not interested in her, even if he was, he would probably not take advantage of her with that personality of his.

It was all because this body's physique was too poor. When she dozed off, it was as if she was drunk and could not withstand it at all. She really missed her body in her previous life.

Su Xiaoxiao recalled and still felt that something was wrong. “But… it was quite detailed.”

Worried that he wouldn't understand, she added, “I pulled your pants.”

She glanced at him with her small eyes. “Why do you think a dream can be so lucid…”

Wei Ting interrupted her coldly, “Don't you know why?!”

Su Xiaoxiao thought about it seriously. “Oh, that's true. I've seen it.”

Wei Ting was dumbfounded.

Su Xiaoxiao was deep in thought. “Did you touch me…” Her dream came to an end at the wrong time.

Wei Ting was about to explode.

Not only did he stay up all night for no reason, but it also resulted in so many problems. Most importantly, he did not find his token on her or in her room in the end.

Where did this girl hide the token?

….

During breakfast, Su Xiaoxiao realized that Wei Ting's leg was limping even more.

She looked at Father Su and said solemnly, “Father, I told you that his leg injury hasn't healed and he can't get off the ground. Look at how crippled he is.”

Wei Ting glanced at Su Xiaoxiao coldly as he bit the flatbread in his hand.

Father Su looked at his son-in-law's leg with a confused expression. “No, he was fine when he came back yesterday. Why did his leg become like this after a night? Did you carry a pig in the middle of the night?”

“Achoo!” Su Xiaoxiao turned around and sneezed.

—

Su Xiaoxiao woke up late and set up her stall later than usual. Old Li sent the siblings off with an ox cart.

Su Xiaoxiao wanted to pay for the ride, but Old Li refused to take it.

Recently, Little Su's family sent many things to their house. Madam Qian's basket had not been empty since she returned from the fields. There were vegetables planted by her family, as well as pancakes and meat from Little Su's family.

Although the vegetable fields had not fared well under Su Cheng's attempts to farm, those vegetables could still be sold at the market. At most, they would not look good and were only a few copper coins cheaper.

What Su Xiaoxiao gave him was not something that could be bought with money.

Recently, the family had been doing well and his daughter-in-law's health had improved a lot. The midwife said that this child would definitely be a fat boy!

“Next time! You can give it to me next time!”

Old Li stuffed the copper coin back into Su Xiaoxiao's hand and pulled the ox cart away.

Su Xiaoxiao smiled. “Thank you, Grandpa Li.”

As usual, the two of them went to Luo Dazhuang's stall to supply goods and collect the jar and money for yesterday's dishes. Then, they walked toward Jin Ji.

Su Ergou said, “Sister, did you really make the pancakes for me this morning?”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Yes. Do you like them?”

Su Ergou said in high spirits, “I like them! They're better than the previous snacks! Then what are they called?”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Ergou Pancake.”

Su Ergou was stunned and looked at his sister in disbelief. “Is… is it really Ergou Pancake?”

“Yes.” Su Xiaoxiao nodded with a smile.

Su Ergou was excited. “Then, can we sell Er Gou Pancake?”

“As long as you're willing, of course.” Su Xiaoxiao stopped and looked at him solemnly. “Also, I won't sell the formula.”

Su Ergou's mood was completely cured.

He was only thirteen this year. Speaking of which, he was no more than a half-grown child.

He would be sad about something simple and happy about a trivial return.

He walked down the street, smiling like a little fool.

—

At Jin Ji, the chefs made three types of snacks according to the formula Manager Sun brought back.

Everyone tried the food one by one.

“Delicious!”

“It's indeed better than what we did.”

“So we got the oil pastry method wrong. It's more oily and delicate if we make it according to her formula. It's just-”

“What is it?” Manager Sun asked.

“Missing something,” said a chef.

Master Qin said nothing. In his opinion, it was not missing just something, but a lot more.

“Is there really a problem with the recipe?” Manager Sun asked nervously. 45 taels of silver was not a small sum. If he bought a fake recipe, the responsibility would be huge!

“The recipe is right,” Master Qin said. With his experience, he could naturally tell that the other party had not tampered with the recipe.

It was the difference in texture caused by the time of fermentation and the uneven heat.

Doing anything required talent. Some people were born with sharp taste buds and could taste things that ordinary people could not.

He was like that, so he was very good at doing this. However, it was obvious that the girl's talent was not inferior to his.

The chestnut cake and wife cake were not much different from the those that the girl sold. If he made more of them and practiced more, he should be able to make up for it.

What really made him frown was the last snack. The yolk pastry didn't taste right.

The salted egg yolk pastry was completely different from what the little village girl sold.

“Is this also a matter of heat control?” Manager Sun asked.

Master Qin said, “It's not the heat control, it's the ingredients.”

Manager Sun said, “We're using the freshest and best ingredients in town!”

Jin Ji's weakness was that it was expensive, but it was definitely not sloppy when it came to ingredients.

“Is it the yolk?” a chef said. “The recipe says salted yolk. We added salt, but the taste is still not right.”

The salted egg yolk in Su Xiaoxiao's pancake had a rustling taste and was oily and salty. Their egg yolk was tasteless.

The chef pondered for a moment and said, “I ate a kind of salted egg in the capital. The yolk inside has this texture.”

Manager Sun was shocked. “You mean… we have to go to the capital to buy it?”

Chapter 56

“Is it available for sale in town?” a cook asked.

“No,” said the chef.

“What about the prefectural city?” Manager Sun asked.

Master Fu shook his head. “There's no such thing in the prefectural city either. These salted eggs are all for the high officials and nobles in the capital. Ordinary small provinces and counties can't sell them.”

“That's not right.” Manager Sun wondered, “If this thing is only sold in the capital, could that girl have bought it from the capital?”

—

It was late today, and the regular customers were anxious.

“Are you getting arrogant? Jin Ji has already sold two pots!”

Shen Chuan said gloomily.

Su Xiaoxiao asked, “Eh? Why are you here today?”

“I was passing by,” Shen Chuan said.

“Oh.” Su Xiaoxiao wrapped five salted egg yolk pastries and handed them to the auntie in front of her. “Your snacks are 100 copper coins.”

The yolk pastry cost ten copper coins more than the wife cake and chestnut cake.

“Here, the list.” Shen Chuan casually handed her the list.

Su Xiaoxiao was surprised. “You specially came to give me the list? Actually, there's no need. After we finish our business here, we'll go to the academy to get it ourselves.”

Shen Chuan said angrily, “I said I was passing by and brought it to you!”

Su Xiaoxiao asked, “You're a little angry today. Did you get into a fight with the dean again?”

Shen Chuan sighed. “He insisted that I go to the city to study after spring. I don't want to go!”

This was a family matter, and it was not convenient for Su Xiaoxiao to interfere.

“For you.” Su Xiaoxiao wrapped a set of snacks for him. “It's for you. No charge.”

“What?” Shen Chuan asked.

“To comfort you,” Su Xiaoxiao said seriously.

Shen Chuan was speechless.

Shen Chuan coughed lightly. “I'm a man. Do I need a little girl like you to comfort me? Here!”

He threw a small silver to Su Xiaoxiao. “There's no need to look. I'm happy today!”

He was going to squander his father's wealth!

He would squander the money ruthlessly!

After squandering his wealth, Eldest Young Master Shen swaggered away.

Su Xiaoxiao handed the silver to Su Ergou and put it away. “Do you understand?”

Su Ergou shook his head in a daze.

He didn't understand. Why did Young Master Shen give his sister more money when she didn't want it?

Su Xiaoxiao patted his shoulder. “Learn slowly.”

There was clearly much less traffic on the streets than before. In addition, they had arrived too late. Many customers waited for a long time and thought that they would not be setting up their stall today.

“Sister, it's a little slow today,” Su Ergou said.

“It's fine. It's normal to have ups and downs in business.” Su Xiaoxiao's mentality was very good. She was probably really generous and not anxious at all.

The money she had on hand was not earned from the snack and braised food business. She had earned 45 taels of silver from selling the formula and 30 taels of silver from Young Master Xiang. She did not have to worry about being hungry in the short term.

However, her business had to be expanded slowly. If she wanted to expand the production scale, she had to invest more capital.

Besides, the house was old. This house was built when Madam Chen and Father Su got married. More than ten years had passed, and the walls had cracked, the roof was piling, and there were leaks.

She planned to put the construction of the house on the agenda after spring.

With this calculation, she would have to spend the money she earned before she could save it.

As she was thinking, Manager Sun walked over leisurely with his hands behind his back.

“Yo, Miss Su, you're here to set up a stall again.”

He came in front of the two of them and glanced at the snacks on Su Xiaoxiao's tray. He smiled and said, “Business isn't very good today.”

Su Ergou was not happy with Manager Sun, who had forcefully bought their formula. “Why are you here again? I'm warning you, there's no recipe to sell to you! I won't sell it again!”

“I'm not here to buy a recipe. I'm here to ask for a refund!”

“What refund? You've already taken the formulae. Are you trying to extort us?!”

Su Ergou knew too much about extortion.

Manager Sun took out a sheet of paper with the formulae from his wide sleeve and flicked it in front of Su Xiaoxiao. “You sold me a fake formula! Even if you go to the government office, it's your fault!”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “You wrote it yourself as I dictated. Unless you wrote the wrong instructions, there won't be a problem with the formula.”

Manager Sun said, “But the snacks I made according to your recipe taste different from the ones you sell!”

Su Xiaoxiao looked puzzled. “Really?”

Manager Sun waved behind him and a staff ran over with a plate of egg yolk pastry.

“Taste it yourself!”

Manager Sun said.

Su Xiaoxiao opened the egg yolk pastry. “There's no need to taste it. It's indeed different from what I made.”

Manager Sun said coldly, “You admit it!”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “But the issue is not with the formula. You bought the wrong ingredients. Don't blame me!”

Manager Sun gritted his teeth. This girl was really not easy to scare…

Ordinary people would have been flustered by his questioning, but this girl was unbelievably calm.

Was she really a teenage village girl?

Su Xiaoxiao said seriously, “Manager Sun, we've opened our doors to do business. If you're really asking for advice humbly, I can do you a favor and tell you. If you want to extort me and trick me, I advise you to give up! I sold you the formulae not because I'm afraid of you. I set up a stall at the entrance of Jin Ji and indeed snatched some of your business. We see each other often and should not go overboard. I'll just treat it as forming a good relationship. But try bullying us again and you'll have it coming!”

In business negotiations, one had to be thick-skinned and have a strong aura. It didn't matter if there was real substance. It was enough to make people believe that you had it.

This was an experience that Manager Sun had practiced for decades. Who knew that he would be easily controlled by a little girl?

Manager Sun really looked at Su Xiaoxiao in a different light. Of course, he did so with a hint of gritted teeth.

Manager Sun said with a fake smile, “Alright, as long as you're willing to tell me where you bought your ingredients, I'll believe you.”

Su Xiaoxiao raised her eyebrows. “Is this your attitude when begging?”

Su Ergou wondered, “Why does it sound like my brother-in-law?”

Manager Sun was dumbfounded.

He smiled exaggeratedly. “Miss Su, where did you buy your salted egg yolk?”

She had better not tell him that it was the capital. If this girl had the capital's supply, would she be worried that he would cut off her supply of flour in this town?

Su Xiaoxiao said calmly, “Oh, you're talking about that. I made it myself.”

Manager Sun was stunned. “You made it yourself?”

Su Xiaoxiao spread her hands. “That's right. Don't you know how to do it? It's not very difficult.”

Manager Sun almost vomited blood.

What did she mean when she said it was not very difficult? If the chefs in town heard her words, they would run over to beat her to death!

Su Xiaoxiao said generously, “Seeing that we've worked together in the past, I can sell the recipe for the salted egg to you at a low price.”

Jin Ji sold snacks, not ingredients. Who the hell would want a recipe for salted eggs?

In that case, would they have to grind their own flour, fry their own fragrant oil, plant their own produce, and dry their own pepper? Later on, he might even have to buy the formula for white sugar and official salt. That way, he wouldn't be far from death!

In short, Jin Ji would not make the ingredients themselves.

Manager Sun said reluctantly, “I don't want the formula, but if you have more salted eggs on hand, you can sell them to me.”

Su Xiaoxiao sighed. “Sigh, although it's not difficult to cook salted eggs, it's very troublesome. I only made those. If I don't even have enough for myself, how can I sell more to you?”

Manager Sun gritted his teeth. “The price is negotiable!”

Chapter 57

The fish… had taken the bait!

Did Manager Sun really think that everything would be fine after buying her formulae?

That was just the beginning of another business. One had to know that it was not easy to take advantage of a little village girl!

Su Xiaoxiao didn't care if Manager Sun could see through her. After all, he couldn't do anything to her.

He needed the ingredients for the yolk pastry, and she was the only one in town who could make it. Unless he gave up on this snack, he had to buy it from her.

He had already spent 15 taels of silver on this formula. If he really gave up, would he be able to bear it? Would he be able to explain it to his boss?

What was that saying? Good hunters often appear as prey.

From the moment Manager Sun targeted her formulae, the situation today was destined.

Indeed, Manager Sun had another option-to buy goods from further away.

But if he could, why would he look for her here?

It could be seen that the cost of buying goods elsewhere was far higher than the budget that Manager Sun could use for the ingredients.

In the end, Su Xiaoxiao agreed to supply Jin Ji with salted egg yolk for eight copper coins per piece. This was much more profitable than selling the formula.

After the first batch of orders was made in spring, Manager Sun suggested that they try it first and pay when they were satisfied.

Su Xiaoxiao understood that Manager Sun wanted to ask around during the new year to see if there were any other supply channels.

—

The snacks were sold out at noon.

For the next two days, there were almost no customers on the streets, and most of the shops were closed.

After selling the last pancake, Su Xiaoxiao clapped her hands. “Close the stall! Our business this year is over!”

Su Ergou was not satisfied. “So fast.”

“Not soon. It's already afternoon.” In the past, when they set up their stall, they could sell them all in less than an hour. It had never been past noon.

Su Xiaoxiao continued, “Tomorrow is the new year. Look, there's no one on the streets. The market is about to close. Let's hurry up and buy something.”

“Sister, what do you want to buy?” Su Ergou asked.

“I want to buy some peanuts and see what else is missing,” Su Xiaoxiao said.

Su Ergou said happily, “I like peanuts!”

Peanuts were indeed not bad. They could be fried, made into peanut crisps, and ground into peanut butter.

Peanut butter was good nutrition for weight loss. Not only could it replenish the high-quality fat needed by the body, but it could also increase the sense of satiety. If she ate it on an empty stomach, she would not need to eat for a long time.

Unfortunately, when they arrived at the market, the peanut seller had already packed up.

They would not set up their stall again this year.

Su Ergou looked at the mostly empty market. “Sister, we can't buy peanuts.”

Su Xiaoxiao sighed regretfully. Suddenly, an idea flashed across her mind. “If I can't buy it here… I can buy it from there!”

Su Ergou scratched his head. “Sister, which place are you referring to?”

Half an hour later, the two of them walked through the thick snow to Spring Willow Lane.

The Fu family's door was closed.

Su Xiaoxiao had her hand in her warm sleeve and couldn't be bothered to take it out, so she ordered her brother, “Ergou, knock.”

“Oh.” Su Ergou knocked on the wooden door. “Is anyone there? Physician Fu! It's us!”

No reaction.

“Aren't you at home? Are you on a house call?” Su Ergou muttered.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Aunt Fu didn't set up her stall. Physician Fu isn't here. She should be. Continue knocking.”

Su Ergou continued to knock on the door. “Aunt Fu! It's us! Are you at home? Can you hear me?”

Probably because they had made too much noise and disturbed the neighbor next door, a woman in her early thirties pulled open the courtyard door and walked out.

She looked at the siblings and frowned. “Stop knocking! Physician Fu Lang is making a house call! He's not here!”

Su Xiaoxiao asked politely, “We're looking for Aunt Fu. Is she around?”

The woman said indifferently, “I'm not sure about that. That old woman never interacts with anyone. Who would know her whereabouts?”

She went into the house.

Something was wrong.

Su Xiaoxiao frowned.

When she went to look for Luo Dazhuang to settle the bill in the morning, she did not see Aunt Fu. After the afternoon passed, she was not around either. She did not set up her stall for the entire day. If she was not at home, where did she go?

“Ergou, climb in!”

Su Er was stunned. “Huh? Sister, this isn't good, right? Aren't we not extorting money anymore?”

Su Xiaoxiao asked strangely, “What does it have to do with extorting money?”

Su Ergou's expression became even more indescribable. “Are you trying to steal money?”

Su Xiaoxiao held her forehead speechlessly. “I'm asking you to go in and see if Aunt Fu is around.”

“Oh, oh, oh.” Su Ergou scratched his head resentfully.

The siblings did the same thing, but Su Xiaoxiao usually only scratched her head when she was irritable.

Su Ergou said, “Then I'll go in.”

Su Xiaoxiao reminded, “Be careful!”

“Alright!”

Su Ergou stepped on the wall and easily climbed into the courtyard.

After a while, Su Ergou pulled open the old door. “Sister! Something happened to Aunt Fu!”

Su Ergou found Aunt Fu in the open space in the backyard. She was lying in the snow with signs of struggle under her. There were dustpans and dried vegetables scattered on the side.

“What smell is that?” Su Ergou sniffed.

“The kitchen!” Su Xiaoxiao said.

Su Ergou quickly went to the kitchen to take a look. “Heavens! The pot is burned through!”

Su Xiaoxiao squatted down.

It seemed that Aunt Fu was planning to bring the washed dried plums to the kitchen to cook. However, in the snow, she slipped and fell.

She tried to get up on her own. Maybe she was old, or she had fallen too hard. She didn't succeed.

Physician Fu was not around, and her relationship with the neighbors was not very harmonious…

In the end, she fainted in the snow.

“Sister! Aunt Fu is still breathing, right? Make way, I'll move her into the house!”

“Don't touch her yet. I'll check.”

To rule out whether there are external injuries or fractures in the body.

Su Xiaoxiao began to examine her.

There was no obvious bleeding, but her left leg was broken.

“She's quite heavily injured.” Su Xiaoxiao sighed. “Ergou, go to the kitchen and find a few pieces of dry wood. They have to be flat and long. If there aren't any, cut a few pieces.”

“Okay!”

Su Ergou agreed.

Father Su was a martial artist. It was normal for him to be injured. He would deal with some small injuries himself. He had followed his father for many years and had more or less seen a little. He understood what kind of board his sister wanted.

Not long after, he hacked a few pieces over.

“Sister, can you see if this is enough?”

Su Xiaoxiao glanced at it and said, “That's enough. Go to that storeroom. I remember there are clean cloth strips hanging on the shelf on the left.”

Su Ergou said, “Sister, you even remember this!”

Su Xiaoxiao said seriously, “Hurry up! She's freezing. It'll be dangerous if she doesn't enter the house!”

“Aye!”

Su Ergou went to get some pieces of cloth.

Su Xiaoxiao did a simple brace on Aunt Fu's leg. “Be careful when you lift her later.”

Frozen people were prone to second fractures.

Su Ergou moved an old door over.

The siblings carefully carried her back to Aunt Fu's bed.

Aunt Fu's situation was very bad.

Although the fracture was not fatal, she had suffered serious temperature loss. If she did not recover her temperature in time, she might never wake up again.

Chapter 58

The first step to rescuing patients with hypothermia was to get them to leave the low-temperature environment.

Su Xiaoxiao quickly took off her winter clothes. “Ergou! Go to the kitchen and build a brazier! Hurry! Boil a few more buckets of hot water!”

Su Ergou: “The pot…”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Go borrow it from the neighbors. Be polite!”

“Alright.”

Su Ergou turned around and walked out.

The cold wind and snow seemed to press down on Su Ergou's face mercilessly.

Su Ergou did not close his mouth and took a deep breath of snow.

“Cough, cough, cough!”

“Tui tui tui!”

He spat out the snow in his mouth in disdain and knocked on the door next door.

The person who opened the door was the woman who had just spoken to them.

The woman had just been sweeping and was holding a broom with snow hanging on it.

“What's wrong now?” the woman asked.

She probably didn't like Aunt Fu. After knowing that the siblings were here to look for her, she didn't have a good attitude toward them.

Su Ergou remembered his sister's advice and said politely, “Madam, do you have many pots at home? I want to borrow one from you.”

When Su Ergou was a bully, he was fierce. When he was obedient, he was actually quite a pleasing young man. Coupled with his gentle tone, he was… quite likable.

The woman coughed lightly and said indifferently, “Why are you borrowing the pot?”

Su Ergou said truthfully, “Aunt Fu next door fainted and the pot at home was burned through. I want to use the pot to boil some hot water for her.”

“She fainted?” The woman was shocked. “Isn't her body quite strong?”

Su Ergou scratched his head. “Maybe it was too slippery in the snow and she accidentally fell. Then, she fainted from the cold.”

The woman frowned and turned around to enter the house to get a big pot for Su Ergou. Then, she looked at Su Ergou deeply, as if she was wondering if that bad-tempered old woman would actually have someone help her.

Hadn't she scolded him enough?

To be honest, if it weren't for Physician Fu, who would be willing to bother with that old woman?

“Who are you to her?” the woman asked.

“We're here to buy peanuts from her,” Su Ergou said.

The woman said nothing more.

Su Ergou took the pot to the kitchen and quickly boiled hot water.

In the house, Su Xiaoxiao took off the granny's snow-soaked clothes and reattached the splint on her leg.

Su Xiaoxiao was already very careful throughout the entire process, but she could still feel that Aunt Fu's breathing was getting stranger.

She took Aunt Fu's pulse and opened her eyes. “Could it be…”

Su Xiaoxiao had a guess.

She retrieved the first aid kit from the small basket.

She was going to perform a follow-up on Young Master Xiang today, so she brought her first aid kit with her before leaving.

The first aid kit contained a stethoscope and a blood pressure monitor.

Aunt Fu's left arm was slightly bruised. She tied the sleeve of the blood pressure gauge to Aunt Fu's right arm and stuffed the stethoscope's receiver in. As she pumped and pressed, she observed the blood pressure gauge's data.

As expected, Aunt Fu's blood pressure was very high.

Su Xiaoxiao didn't know about Aunt Fu's medical history, so she wasn't sure if it was a one-time increase in blood pressure caused by frostbite or if her blood pressure had always been high.

Either way, she had to reduce the patient's pressure immediately.

She could take this opportunity to see if she could enter the pharmacy.

Su Xiaoxiao closed her eyes.

When she opened her eyes, she realized that she was still where she was.

“No way. Someone's going to die. Can it work?”

High blood pressure and frostbite shock were very dangerous! It was much more dangerous than Young Master Xiang's condition the previous time!

Su Xiaoxiao tried many times to no avail. Just as she was about to give up, her vision flashed and she entered the pharmacy.

She was standing in front of the medicine cabinet in the Cardiology Department.

Su Xiaoxiao was confused.

“Are you on a 2G network? Your reaction is so slow.”

Although she was complaining, Su Xiaoxiao didn't forget to take medicine, such as blood pressure medicine, diuretics, potassium chloride…

“And Father Su's medicine!”

It was rare for her to come in. She had to-

Just as the thought flashed through her mind, her vision blurred.

She was out.

Su Xiaoxiao's face darkened.

Last time, she had at least taken a bottle of bone-strengthening medicine. This time, she couldn't even retrieve that.

“How tightly guarded.”

Su Xiaoxiao curled her lips.

Actually, she did not completely understand what was going on. After all, she had only entered three times. If she wanted to figure out the pattern, she would probably have to try a few more times.

“Let's treat Aunt Fu first.”

In the kitchen, Ergou raised the brazier and the hot water was ready.

Su Xiaoxiao used a water bag to fill a few hot water bags to warm Aunt Fu's body. Aunt Fu finally regained a trace of consciousness.

She opened her eyes stiffly and saw Su Xiaoxiao busying herself in the room.

“It's… you…”

She was freezing, and her tongue was no longer sharp.

Su Xiaoxiao greeted, “It's me, Aunt Fu.”

Aunt Fu couldn't move, but Su Xiaoxiao could tell that she had rolled her eyes at her.

Since she could still roll her eyes, it seemed she wouldn't die.

Su Xiaoxiao helped her up slightly and placed a pillow behind her back. She carried a glass of water and a cup of medicine. “Since you're awake, take the medicine.”

Aunt Fu continued to stubbornly and slowly roll her eyes!

Su Xiaoxiao stuffed the medicine into her mouth and fed her a few spoonfuls of warm water.

In her situation, taking blood pressure medicine alone was not enough. She had to keep up with the diuretics and potassium chloride.

Having taken strange medicine, Aunt Fu continued to roll her eyes.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “You can speak now, right? If you can't, you can nod and blink. I need to know your medical history so that I can treat you more accurately later.”

Aunt Fu retorted, “My son is a physician. Do I need you to treat me?”

Besides, what medical skills could a little girl know? Forget it!

Su Xiaoxiao said, “The first question is, do you often feel dizzy? Sometimes, your chest will be stuffy and your limbs will be numb?”

Aunt Fu was stunned, and her disdainful expression froze.

“Looks like it.” Su Xiaoxiao nodded and continued, “Are the above symptoms more common in the morning and evening?”

Aunt Fu was even more surprised.

“Looks like it again.” Su Xiaoxiao understood that she had guessed correctly again.

If Aunt Fu's condition was not controlled, it was easy to trigger cardiovascular disease, such as angina, and so on. In serious cases, it might even cause a cerebral infarction and a heart attack.

Her fall might have been caused by her high blood pressure and dizziness. Fortunately, Su Xiaoxiao and Ergou came to buy peanuts. Otherwise, Aunt Fu would have died of illness or frozen to death.

“Look at you. It's not like there's no one living next door. Can't you scream if you fall? You'd rather faint from the cold than shout for help. What a stubborn temper!”

Su Xiaoxiao cherished her life, especially after dying once. She could understand how precious life was.

What was more important than life?

“Have you thought about Physician Fu's feelings? If he came back from consultation and realized that his mother was gone, he wouldn't even be able to see you for the last time! How can he face himself for the rest of his life? Can he forgive himself when he thinks that his consultation indirectly caused your accident? Can he continue to save the dying and heal the injured? Can he still hold the silver needles in his hand?”

Chapter 59

It was unknown if it was because she was affected by Su Xiaoxiao's words or because she was shocked by Su Xiaoxiao's aura, but Aunt Fu didn't retort.

When Su Xiaoxiao brought two white pills and a spoonful of warm water to her mouth, she swallowed them cooperatively.

“That's more like it.”

Su Xiaoxiao put down her cup in satisfaction.

She had been a little agitated just now not only because she was angry at the patient for not fighting for her life, but also because she thought of Father Su, who had been separated from Madam Chen since he returned from the escort mission. He had yet to walk out of the trauma from back then.

There was also herself. She would never be able to return to the twenty-first century alive. In that world, she was a dead woman.

Su Xiaoxiao wasn't someone who would stay immersed in negative emotions. She was very good at adjusting.

She quickly returned to the topic. “Aren't you going to ask what I gave you?”

Aunt Fu's body warmed up and her words were smooth. However, her attitude was still indifferent.

Aunt Fu said coldly, “What can it be? Do you really think your native method can save people?”

She had seen many country bumpkins, and many of them died from consuming strange concoctions.

Su Xiaoxiao didn't argue with her.

Facts spoke louder than words. With high blood pressure, a person's body would definitely not feel good. When the medicine took effect later, she would feel comfortable and understand how effective her “native method” was.

Su Xiaoxiao continued, “You didn't mention your illness to Physician Fu, right? Do you feel that headache and dizziness are small matters? Did you sit for too long? Or are you avoiding treatment?”

Aunt Fu said impatiently, “Why are you so talkative today!”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “I'm only talkative because I care about you.”

Aunt Fu said angrily, “Who needs your concern? Is your concern valuable?”

Look at this strange temper. Wei Ting and Jingyi were nothing compared to this woman.

The two of them had cold personalities. Aunt Fu was really grumpy and had a sharp tongue. No wonder her neighbors were afraid of her.

However, Su Xiaoxiao didn't agree with her.

It was not the first time she had interacted with the Fu family. She originally thought that the quality of the medicinal herbs prepared by Physician Fu was good and that it was not mixed with fake medicine. However, if one paid careful attention, he would discover that Aunt Fu's ingredients were also top-notch.

Her dry goods were the best in the market, and her weight was also the highest. There was no lack of weight. Instead, she would usually give a bit more.

Physician Fu Lang treated many people and did not earn much money. There was no lack of poor people who could not afford the consultation fee. Aunt Fu, who had a bad temper and scolded her neighbors, did not say anything about this.

Su Xiaoxiao snorted. “I won't argue with you anymore. I'll go cook.”

Aunt Fu berated, “You still want to cook at my house!”

Su Xiaoxiao placed her hands on her hips. “I've been busy for so long. I'm cold and hungry. What's wrong with a meal? Hit me if you dare!”

Aunt Fu looked at her splinted legs and was so angry that her wrinkles seemed to be trembling.

Su Xiaoxiao revealed a victorious smile and clapped her hands. “Alright, don't be angry. Lie down and sleep for a while. It will help the medicine take effect faster.”

Medicinal effects?

Ha!

Did a little girl who sold braised food and snacks really think that a random native method could treat her dizziness for many years?

At most, she believed that this girl did not deliberately poison her, but she did not believe that it would be effective!

—

Su Xiaoxiao went to the kitchen and cooked a pot of seaweed and egg porridge. The seaweed was rich in potassium and could help reduce blood pressure. The barley nourished the yin and nourished the kidneys, and it was also good for relieving Aunt Fu's current symptoms.

In addition, she spread out a few dried plum pancakes for her and Su Ergou to eat.

She would not stand on ceremony with Aunt Fu.

After she washed the pot and returned it to the next door neighbor, she brought a basket of dry goods.

“These are from Aunt Fu. Please accept them,” Su Xiaoxiao said with a smile.

The woman looked at the basket full of big and beautiful dried mushrooms. Thinking that she could make a pot of chicken stewed with mushrooms for her husband and son at night, she couldn't bear to reject them.

“If there's anything, just call out. It's normal for Doctor Fu to go out for three to five days without returning. Those remote villages don't have money to earn and the roads are difficult to walk. No one is willing to go. Only Doctor Fu doesn't mind the mountains and long roads. He's willing to be a fool!”

Su Xiaoxiao sighed. “Sigh, wasn't it Aunt Fu who asked him to go? Aunt Fu said that she would rather suffer than let the poor people look down on her.”

The woman recalled that the vicious old woman had indeed never made things difficult for poor patients. Even if she had scolded everyone on the street, she did not reject or chase away patients who could not afford the medicine.

Thinking of this, the woman fell silent.

Su Xiaoxiao smiled. “In short, I thank you on behalf of Aunt Fu.”

After that, Su Xiaoxiao returned to the Fu family and packed another basket of dried goods to send to another neighbor.

“Aunt Fu said that it has been exposed to too much sun. The weather is so humid. If you don't eat it, it will spoil. If you don't mind, you can take it to make soup. It's very nourishing.”

….

In the evening, Su Xiaoxiao carried a bag of peanuts and left.

Aunt Fu sat on the bed and shouted angrily, “Stupid girl! What did you take again!”

Su Xiaoxiao said confidently, “Medicine and consultation fees!”

Aunt Fu was speechless.

She had been deceived. A country bumpkin had bartered a bag of peanuts for her native concoction. She had suffered a huge loss!

During the night, two unbelievable things happened in the Fu family.

The first thing was that Aunt Fu's symptoms had eased-her panic and shortness of breath were gone, and her head no longer hurt. Her dizziness had been greatly relieved, and her limbs were no longer numb.

The second thing was that her neighbors, who never interacted with her, suddenly came to her door!

One brought her a bowl of hot chicken stewed with mushrooms and helped her to the toilet.

The other helped her refill the brazier, leaving a pot of fungus soup and a few plum cornbread.

He even said that he would visit her again early!

Aunt Fu felt like she had seen a ghost!

—

Su Ergou was simple-minded. He only thought that his sister had given Aunt Fu two boards. He didn't think it was a big deal. As for feeding her medicine, he did not see it.

When the two of them returned to the village, it was already completely dark.

Father Su was a little anxious. Although Zhang Dao was no longer in town and no one could deal with the siblings, he was still nervous if the children did not return.

When he went to the village entrance for the seventeenth time, he finally saw his fat daughter.

“Daya!”

He let out a long sigh of relief, his mood brightening. “Why are you back so late?”

Su Ergou told her what happened at Aunt Fu's house. “… I extorted a bag of peanuts from her!”

Su Cheng gave his fat daughter a thumbs up. “As expected of my daughter!”

Su Xiaoxiao was speechless.

….

The three little ones did not see their mother for an entire day and were collectively listless.

When Su Xiaoxiao finally returned, the three of them did not pounce on her immediately. Instead, they entered Su Ergou's room.

The three of them faced the wall, looking aggrieved.

Chapter 60

“This is…” Su Xiaoxiao stood at the door and looked at the three children before looking at Su Cheng.

Su Cheng sighed. “They've been waiting for you all day, and refused to eat dinner.”

That was probably due to Father Su's dark culinary arts…

Su Xiaoxiao didn't expect to return so late and had only prepared and left lunch in the kitchen. Su Cheng had to contribute to the dark cuisine at night.

Su Xiaoxiao thought of how she had waited downstairs for Madam Li like this when she was young.

Madam Li was her mother in her previous life.

However, her waiting never paid off. Even if it did, Madam Li would not stay at home for more than ten minutes before leaving in a hurry.

She had also locked herself in her room in a fit of anger, waiting for Madam Li to coax her. However, when she opened the door and went out, Madam Li had already left, leaving her and the nanny who took care of her at home.

Su Xiaoxiao came behind the three little ones and poked their shoulders with her chubby index finger.

“Dahu, Erhu, Xiaohu, I'm back.”

The three of them didn't move.

Su Xiaoxiao smiled. “What's wrong? Am I too late?”

The three of them remained silent.

Su Xiaoxiao turned the three of them around.

Their small bodies turned around, but their small heads turned to the side stubbornly. Their expressions were extremely aggrieved.

If Madam Li had pushed open the door that she had not locked back then, she would have seen herself like this, right?

“Are you angry with me? Tell me, okay?”

Even though she tacitly agreed that they called her mother, she was still not used to referring to herself as a mother.

Dahu said gloomily, “I'm so sad.”

“Erhu is also sad,” Erhu said aggrievedly.

Xiaohu held his chest and said with heartache, “Xiao Fu… is the saddest!”

Ah, where did such young children learn these words?

It was so cute to hear children talking like adults!

Su Xiaoxiao said, “It's my fault today. I should have come back earlier.”

The more she spoke, the more aggrieved the three of them felt. Their eyes were red.

It was still different.

In her previous life, she would not cry. No matter how sad she was, there were no tears.

Su Xiaoxiao bent down and kissed each of their cheeks.

“Don't be angry, okay? I'll take you guys to town tomorrow.”

The moment they received the kiss, the three of them blushed. No matter how hard they tried to maintain their aloofness and grievance, they could not hold it in anymore.

The three of them were so embarrassed that they fell to the ground. They covered their shy faces and got up.

They were going to show off to Niudan!

Looking at the three of them running out, Su Xiaoxiao laughed.

On the other side of the house, Wei Ting looked at the three little brats who had increasingly deviated from their original behavior and frowned deeply.

—

Everyone was not full from dinner, mainly because Su Cheng's cooking was too terrible.

Su Xiaoxiao cooked a pot of noodle soup with cured meat and cut some vegetables. The family couldn't stop eating and the three children even licked the plates clean.

Su Ergou went to wash the dishes while Su Xiaoxiao began to make peanut butter.

There was no mill at home, but Old Li's family did.

Su Xiaoxiao planned to borrow it herself. Su Cheng's heart ached for his daughter and couldn't bear for her to move the mill at night, so he could only bite the bullet and personally visit.

Recently, Su Cheng had been going to town to hunt Zhang Dao down and did not come to learn farming much. Madam Qian was idle for a while and was laughing when she saw Evil Tyrant Su again.

“There's no more land to plant!”

She slammed the door!

Su Cheng, who was snubbed was speechless.

Su Cheng knocked on the door in resignation. “I'm here to borrow a mill. I'll return it to you after I'm done using it.”

There was no response from behind the door.

Was she refusing to lend it?

Su Cheng touched the bridge of his nose resentfully. If he had known earlier, he would have farmed properly.

Suddenly, the door opened!

A mill was thrown out!

Bang! The door closed again!

Su Cheng was dumbfounded.

Old Li's family had two types of millstones. The big millstone was lent to someone else. The other was a small millstone that was not too heavy. Su Cheng could move it with his left hand.

However, Su Cheng was asking for a beating… He used his right hand and realized that his right hand… no longer hurt.

After fighting with Zhang Dao last time, his hand injury relapsed. If he used a little force, his hand would tremble and hurt at night.

He didn't care. However, to him, he would get used to the pain.

But… when did it… stop hurting?

Could it be the bottle of medicine his daughter had given him?

Su Cheng returned home with a heart full of doubts and the small mill he had borrowed from Old Li's family.

Su Xiaoxiao was sitting in the backyard with Su Ergou and Wei Ting. Wei Ting was made to sit there by her.

“Daughter, come here!”

Su Cheng put down the millstone and said to Su Xiaoxiao.

“Oh, I'm coming.” Su Xiaoxiao stood up and glared at Wei Ting. “Peel it properly. You're not allowed to be lazy!”

Wei Ting said, “Heh.”

His hands which were used to kill enemies were now used to peel peanuts.

“Dad, what's wrong?” Su Xiaoxiao came to Su Chengwu.

Su Cheng shook his right hand and said happily, “Look!”

“Look… what?” Su Xiaoxiao was confused.

Su Cheng said in surprise, “Dad's wrist doesn't hurt anymore!”

“Huh?” Su Xiaoxiao was shocked. She hurriedly held Su Cheng's right wrist and gently pressed it everywhere. “Does it really not hurt anymore? What about here?”

“It doesn't hurt!”

“Here?”

“It doesn't hurt either!”

Su Xiaoxiao pressed each area one by one. Other than the numbness and pain when she pressed some of his acupoints, it wasn't like this before!

She had yet to officially treat Father Su and he had only eaten a bottle of bone supplements.

Could it be that… the bone supplements developed by the base not only had the effect of replenishing calcium and strengthening the bones but could also repair nerve damage?

This was definitely a big surprise and a big discovery!

Su Xiaoxiao said seriously, “Dad, I'll test the strength of your wrist. Don't force yourself. If it hurts or feels uncomfortable, get me to stop.”

Su Cheng replied, “Okay!”

Su Xiaoxiao gently pressed Father Su's wrist and increased her strength.

“You have to tell me if it hurts!”

“I will.”

His daughter understood how to feel sorry for others. He felt relieved.

When Su Xiaoxiao increased her strength for the fourth time, Father Su frowned slightly.

“Does it hurt?” Su Xiaoxiao quickly stopped.

“It's a little numb,” Father Su said.

“Then that's all for now.” Su Xiaoxiao retracted her hand.

The results of this test were much stronger than expected. She thought that Father Su's hand injury would only improve after a series of complicated treatments.

However, a bottle of bone supplements allowed her to see hope.

His damaged nerves were slowly recovering. In the past, she had 50% confidence in helping him recover, but now, she had 80%!

There was a reason why the pharmacy was so stingy. The conventional prescription medicine she took probably could not compare to a bottle of high technology bone strengthening pills.

She had fleeced the base!

“Hehe.”

Su Xiaoxiao felt that she had picked up a huge bargain.

Su Cheng looked at his fat daughter who was smiling foolishly and couldn't help but tremble. “Daya, don't scare me.”

He would rather his hand didn't get better than let his fat daughter become a fool.

Su Xiaoxiao looked at Father Su and said hopefully, “Father, your hand will definitely recover!”

She was 80% confident. She would use all her strength to fight for the remaining percentage!

Chapter 61

Su Xiaoxiao went to the kitchen to make peanut butter. Father Su also joined the team of family laborers peeling peanut shells.

“Sister, I'm done peeling a basin of peanuts.” Su Ergou placed a basin of peanuts on the stove. “Do you still want to peel more?”

“Yes,” Su Xiaoxiao said. She paused and said, “It's too cold outside. Come in and peel.”

“Alright!” Su Ergou went outside to bring in a sack of peanuts and his brother-in-law and father.

Su Cheng and his son-in-law were in the category of being forced to peel peanuts. They were lazy and often needed Su Ergou's reminders.

Wei Ting was young and fast. When Father Su had only peeled a dozen peanuts, he had already filled a big bowl.

Father Su took the opportunity to change their bowls!

Su Xiaoxiao turned around and widened her eyes. “Wei Ting! Why did you only peel these few?”

Father Su waved his hand. “Aiya, don't blame my son-in-law. I peeled too quickly.”

Wei Ting was wondering if Su Cheng could be any more shameless. His boat was flipped over just like that!

Su Xiaoxiao poured the peanuts into a hot pot and stir-fried them. It was a test of the speed.

The three little fellows returned from showing off next door and surrounded the stove to watch Su Xiaoxiao stir-fry peanuts.

The family gathered in the kitchen illuminated by the fire and oil lamps. The cold wind howled outside, but everyone felt that it was a warm winter.

The skin of the peanut became darker, and the peanut kernels were about to turn slightly yellow. She put them in the sieve and shook them to remove the skin. Those that were not removed were rubbed off with hands.

Su Xiaoxiao washed the stone mill and dried it. She split half of it and let Wei Ting grind it. She put the other half into the garlic pot.

Su Ergou asked, “Sister, what are you doing?”

Su Xiaoxiao said patiently to her brother, “I'm making peanut butter. I just want to try if grinding or pounding makes it more fragrant.”

Su Ergou was very enthusiastic, but Father Su and Wei Ting wanted to slack off.

Father Su pretended to say, “Aiya, my hand hurts.”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “You can grind it with your left hand. It doesn't take much strength.”

Wei Ting stretched out his bandaged long legs. “My legs…”

Su Xiaoxiao: “You don't need legs to grind peanuts!”

The two of them continued to work.

The peanut butter in the stone mill was first ground twice with a mill, mixed with cold water, and stirred. Then, it was put into the mill and ground a few times. The more it was ground, the finer the sauce would be.

Su Xiaoxiao asked Father Su to grind half of the sauce into a grainy paste-the adults ate them, and the other half was smooth-and the three little ones ate them.

This smoothness was relative. It was not completely smooth like what she had in her previous life. There were still a few grains.

Su Xiaoxiao continued to stir-fry peanuts and performed the role of the production manager.

Su Ergou peeled the peanut shells and peanut shells. He also supervised Father Su and Wei Ting. He could be said to be the workshop director.

The three little ones were only in charge of tasting the peanuts that Su Xiaoxiao had stir-fried, the peanut butter that Father Su had ground, and the peanut paste that Wei Ting had made.

The family had a clear division of labor.

In the blink of an eye, only half of the sack of peanuts was left.

The rich fragrance of peanuts filled the entire kitchen. It was warm and fragrant. Even the Liu family next door could smell it.

Madam He lay under the blanket and drooled at the fragrance. “What did Little Su's family make again?”

“Who knows!” Niudan's father turned around with his back facing Madam He and drooled.

For some reason, Little Su suddenly had meat. She ate meat every day!

At first, he thought that it was just some lard that had been refined. After all, Fatty Su liked to eat this in the past. That was his assumption until he bumped into Su Ergou with a sausage in his mouth. He was eating it while drying the cured meat in the courtyard!

At that moment, he was certain that the Su family had really eaten meat!

It was not lard, nor was it solely for Fatty Su. It was the kind where the entire family could eat their fill!

Madam He was really craving it. She patted her man's shoulder. “Didn't we buy a few catties of meat? Tomorrow, you can tell Mom. Let's make dumplings.”

Liu An said impatiently, “The meat is for the new year! Aren't you afraid of being scolded by mother? Go and tell her yourself!”

Madam He lay flat in anger and muttered, “How would I dare to say that?”

To be honest, Liu An also wanted to eat meat. However, his parents were in a bad mood recently, so he did not dare to ask.

Madam He smiled again and said, “Let Niudan do it? He'll definitely do it!”

Niudan, who was lying between the two of them, had long fallen asleep. He did not know that his parents had designs on him.

Liu An was a little tempted. He hesitated for a moment and rejected, “Forget it, we can't make that much for Niudan. There won't even be enough for him.”

That was true.

It was not that the Great Wu did not dote on her biological son and her only grandson, but that the family did not have much.

“Hey.” Liu An suddenly thought of Little Wu. “Doesn't Sister-in-law often work for Little Su's family? Ask her to ask Fat Lass Su for some.”

Madam He asked, “Will Fatty Su give it to us?”

Fatty Su, the little bully, had always been the one to extort others. It was even more difficult to make her spit out something.

Although Old Li had testified that she had helped him snatch back the villagers' New Year goods, who knew what was going on?

Liu An had witnessed he Su family giving Old Li benefits. Perhaps Old Li had been bribed by the Su family!

Therefore, after hearing Madam He's question, Liu An was not confident.

He said irritably, “Isn't this your fault? When Fat Lass Su was slandered for having killed someone, why didn't you speak up for her? After Old Li spoke up, Fat Lass Su took a lot of things to Old Li's house! I saw it all!”

Madam He snorted. “You were there that night! Why didn't you say so!”

Liu An choked. He couldn't win against Madam He. Just as he was about to flare up and shout, his mother spoke first.

“Why are you making so much noise in the middle of the night? Can't you let me sleep? Eat, eat, eat! All you know is eat! Are you rushing to eat and reincarnate!”

It was unknown if she was scolding Liu An, Madam He, or Fatty Su and her family next door.

In the kitchen, the family was so busy that they did not hear anything.

Even if they heard it, they would not take it to heart. They would only think that Big Wu was going crazy.

The peanut butter that was ground with the stone mill was viscous, smooth, and delicate. The peanut butter that was pounded with a stone pestle was more inclined to peanut mud and was thick and dense.

Both of them tasted good. The three little ones preferred the version ground with the stone mill. It was smooth and would not cause choking. Su Xiaoxiao was more interested in the one ground by the stone pestle.

The stone mill scattered the peanuts, and the smell was dispersed. The peanuts were crushed, pressed, and tempered repeatedly. The grease and fragrance of the peanuts seemed to have been pressed into every molecule of the ingredient.

With a bite, the oil and fragrance exploded between one's teeth.

This was really pure peanut butter without sugar or salt, thickener, or hydrogenated plant oil. It was too fragrant!

Su Xiaoxiao smacked her lips and pointed at the pestle in Wei Ting's hand. “Enough grinding. We'll make this kind later.”

Wei Ting looked at the remaining half of the sack of peanuts and frowned. “You just want me to keep pounding peanuts for you!”

Chapter 62

Su Xiaoxiao bent down and arrogantly looked at someone sitting on the small stool. “Yes! Did you just realize?”

Wei Ting took a deep breath and used the same trick. “Dad, Daya bullied me.”

Su Xiaoxiao said in a second, “Dad, if he doesn't do it, you can grind the rest. Dad, you grind it!”

Su Cheng decisively cut off his son-in-law and said, “Son-in-law, actually, I also think that the peanuts are more fragrant when you grind them this way. Make more!”

Wei Ting was speechless.

Wei Ting realized that when it came to working, this cheap father-in-law was unreliable.

The three little ones began to rub their eyes.

“The children are sleepy,” Father Su said to Su Xiaoxiao.

Su Xiaoxiao put down the spoon and looked at the three of them. “Are you going to sleep?”

The three of them shook their heads.

Dahu said, “I don't want to sleep.”

Erhu yawned. “I want to play.”

It was midnight!

Su Xiaoxiao looked at Xiaohu. “What about you?”

Xiaohu didn't say anything and just stretched out his arm toward Su Xiaoxiao.

Su Xiaoxiao picked the little fellow up.

Xiaohu fell asleep in her arms.

Immediately after, Dahu and Erhu could not hold on anymore. They swayed as they walked. Father Su and Su Ergou carried the sleepy children back to the house.

“I want to play,” Erhu said.

And fell asleep.

Dahu was more tenacious and lasted until he entered the central room.

After pointing out Su Xiaoxiao's room to Su Ergou, he fell asleep.

In the kitchen, Su Xiaoxiao and Wei Ting continued their peanut butter business.

Halfway through, Su Xiaoxiao suddenly had an idea. She took out the stir-fried sesame seeds from the cupboard and added them to Wei Ting's mortar.

Wei Ting frowned.

Su Xiaoxiao smiled. “Sesame is more fragrant if it's ground. However, you're strong, so it shouldn't be bad! This is called… sesame peanut butter!”

Wei Ting glanced at her and did not want to speak at all.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Ah, right, we can make a bowl of sesame sauce!”

Wei Ting placed the stone pestle on the mortal. “Are you done?”

Su Xiaoxiao smiled. “No!”

It was not easy for her to discover that he had such skills. Of course, she had to make the best use of it.

Wei Ting was indeed a martial artist. His control of strength was perfect. It was as thin as it could be. The sesame sauce he stirred was really no different from one that was made using a grinding stone.

As Su Xiaoxiao fried the peanuts, she hummed a tune. Wei Ting looked at her happy expression and really did not understand what there was to enjoy.

Wei Ting's physique was too strong, and he could last much longer than Su Xiaoxiao. In the end, Su Xiaoxiao couldn't take it anymore and decided to do the rest tomorrow.

Tomorrow was the day to go to town to check on Young Master Xiang. Before falling asleep, Su Xiaoxiao packed the medicine she needed into the first aid kit and checked the token in the invisible compartment.

This compartment was well hidden. Those who did not know about first aid kits would not be able to find it.

In the central room, Wei Ting was shrouded in darkness. He saw all of this through the crack of the door.

No wonder he couldn't find it. She had hidden it in that strange little bundle.

Su Xiaoxiao placed the first-aid bag on the bed and closed her eyes to sleep.

Wei Ting waited until he heard her even breathing in the room before gently pushing open the door and coming to the bed.

Su Xiaoxiao rolled over and placed a chubby arm on the first-aid bag.

Wei Ting frowned and reached out with his slender hand. As he pulled open the blanket, he carefully held her chubby arm.

Su Xiaoxiao had just taken a shower and her body was soft and warm. The moment she touched his cold fingertips, she woke up!

The tall figure was inches away. The warm breath in the night was infinitely magnified, not to mention the cold touch on her arm.

Someone was there!

Alarm bells rang in her heart!

Wei Ting knew martial arts, but Su Xiaoxiao's sudden awakening made him feel guilty. He was subconsciously stunned.

But it was only for a moment.

Anyway, it was so dark at night, so she probably didn't see it clearly. When she asked, she only said that she was dreaming again.

Unexpectedly, just as he moved, Su Xiaoxiao whispered, “Wei Ting?”

Wei Ting's body stiffened.

“Is it really you?” Su Xiaoxiao spoke again, this time with certainty.

Wei Ting was stunned.

He could not see his fingers. He did not say anything. How did this girl recognize him?

Wei Ting started the second time tonight. “You are dreaming…”

Su Xiaoxiao said fiercely without thinking, “You're the one dreaming! I'm very awake!”

Su Xiaoxiao was indeed very awake tonight. She had to go for a follow-up tomorrow. With the lesson she had learned from sleeping too much, she didn't let herself get sleepy tonight.

In addition, Wei Ting's hand was so cold, it very refreshing to touch.

“Wait.” Su Xiaoxiao grabbed Wei Ting's wrist, causing Wei Ting, who was about to get up, to lean on her again.

To avoid touching her, he tried to prop himself up on his elbows.

Su Xiaoxiao was not a thin beauty like Su Jinniang. She was a little fatty.

Wei Ting closed his eyes and raised his body, but he still inevitably touched a soft spot.

Su Xiaoxiao didn't know what he was going through. She thought of something and her expression became serious.

“I didn't dream it last time, did I?”

“You did,” Wei Ting said righteously.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “You didn't even ask me which time and what dream!”

Wei Ting was speechless.

Should he have flipped through the almanac before getting up today?

Su Xiaoxiao looked pained. “Alright! I didn't expect you to be such a person!”

“What kind of person am I? Don't misunderstand!” Wei Ting found it difficult to explain.

Su Xiaoxiao chuckled. “I misunderstood? I caught you red-handed! How dare you quibble!”

“It's not what you think!” Wei Ting had a headache.

Su Xiaoxiao's eyes were cold. “Then what? You've been caught twice! Also! I think you were very firm with your actions!”

“That's because you-”

Wei Ting looked down and quickly looked away, swallowing the words in his mouth.

He flushed and said, “Let go of me and let me up!”

Su Xiaoxiao grabbed his wrist tightly. “Don't think I don't know. You won't admit it if I let you go! You're not allowed to leave until you make yourself clear!”

At this point, in order to prove his innocence, Wei Ting could only be honest.

“I'm looking for the token! Who asked you to take my token and not return it to me? I can only come and take it myself!”

Su Xiaoxiao said seriously, “It's theft if you don't ask!”

Wei Ting gritted his teeth. “That's my own thing!”

Su Xiaoxiao blinked as she thought about the validity of his words. “You've been freeloading on me! Your token is mine!”

Wei Ting said calmly, “I didn't agree to pay you.”

Su Xiaoxiao said fiercely and domineeringly, “It… it has to be the same! Between you and the token, choose one to give me!”

Wei Ting said, “Me.”

Su Xiaoxiao was speechless.

Chapter 63

How did the topic get to this point?

It was different from what she had expected!

Shouldn't Wei Ting deny it or state that he had not given her the token?

In that case, he was here to steal her things tonight!

No, her original intention was not to ask him to admit that he had stolen it. How did they end up at this point in their quarrel?

She did not perform well!

Unfortunately, Wei Ting did not give her a chance to turn the tables.

“I'll give myself to you. Can you return the token to me?”

The night blurred his outline and the coldness in his tone. His low and magnetic voice made one's heart inexplicably soften in this silent world.

Su Xiaoxiao understood that this body's infatuation was acting up again.

She was the one who dropped the ball at the critical moment!

Wei Ting wanted to take back the token, but Su Xiaoxiao refused to hand it over. The two of them fell into a stalemate.

“Wei Ting.”

Su Xiaoxiao suddenly spoke.

“Shoot.”

Wei Ting replied coldly.

Su Xiaoxiao hummed and recalled seriously. “If I wasn't dreaming last time, did I touch it?”

Wei Ting was speechless.

In the end, Wei Ting could not take back the token because Xiaohu peed.

Su Xiaoxiao felt that it was time. When Xiaohu moved under the blanket, she hurriedly pulled him out and stuffed him into Wei Ting's arms.

Wei Ting was not so lucky. Before he could react, a wave of his son's love rolled across his chest…

Xiaohu, who had finished peeing, felt very comfortable even in his sleep. He raised his chin in enjoyment and looked extremely smug in his sleep.

Wei Ting went out with a dark expression.

“Haha!”

Su Xiaoxiao fell onto the bed with a smile.

—

Before dawn, Su Xiaoxiao got up from the soft blanket.

Perhaps it was because a fatty was not afraid of the cold or because there were three small warm water bags, but she slept quite warmly.

It had snowed heavily last night and blocked the door.

The stone slabs in the backyard were covered in thick ice, making it difficult for children to step on them.

Su Xiaoxiao swept the snow and shoveled the ice. She was covered in sweat and finally eliminated the hidden danger in the backyard.

This year's business ended yesterday. She did not have to set up a stall today, but she still had to go to town.

Firstly, she was not sure if Physician Fu had returned. She had to see Aunt Fu. Secondly, it was time to do a follow-up for Young Master Xiang.

She cooked two poached eggs, drained them, smeared them with a thin layer of peanut butter, scalded a few cabbage leaves, and added a corn cob-to manage her current weight, this was a nutritious and sumptuous fat-reducing breakfast.

She steamed big meat buns for her family and heated them in the pot. Then, she carried the three sleeping children to Su Ergou before carrying the basket out the door.

The snow on the road was thick and difficult to walk on.

In such weather, unless there was something important, they usually wouldn't go out.

However, Su Xiaoxiao actually met her aunt, Madam Huang, and her eldest cousin, Chen Haoyuan, at the village entrance.

Madam Huang's outfit today was not simple. She was wearing a brand-new cotton-padded jacket and a very rare silver hairpin.

Although it was obvious that it was silver-plated, it was already considered an important outfit in the countryside.

Looking at Chen Haoyuan again, he was on vacation. He had taken off the blue academy uniform and changed into a decent grayish-white robe.

In Zhou Country, people paid attention to their attire and could not wear clothes that exceeded their status. For example, most of the commoners were dressed in short combat clothes and could only wear outfits made of common cloth. Commoners were named thus for a reason.

A long gown was a symbol of status for a scholar or a wealthy family. Chen Haoyuan belonged to the former.

Clothes maketh the man. This applied to both men and women. Half of Chen Haoyuan's handsomeness came from his good looks, and the other half was from his dignified long robe and school uniform.

Wei Ting was the only one who could look striking despite wearing shabby clothes.

Madam Huang was holding a basket covered in cotton. It looked a little heavy, and it was a little difficult for Madam Huang to carry it.

Meanwhile, Chen Haoyuan was empty-handed. Chen Haoyuan was a scholar. The entire family doted on him and didn't let him do any work…

Su Xiaoxiao felt that boys should be like Ergou and be raised well. They couldn't be too spoiled.

It was obvious that Madam Huang and Chen Haoyuan were not here for the Su family. As for who they were looking for, Su Xiaoxiao was not interested.

She left expressionlessly.

Seeing that the wretched girl did not even greet her, Madam Huang was so angry that she mocked, “Have you become blind and mute now that New Year Year's Eve is approaching? Do you not even know how to greet your Aunt?”

Chapter 64

Madam Huang was very arrogant now.

Su Xiaoxiao glanced at her and couldn't be bothered with her.

She had forgotten that New Year's Eve was approaching. She had to leave early and come back early. She could not let the three little fellows wait until they felt wronged.

When Madam Huang was ignored again, she felt like her fist had hit cotton. She was so angry that she jumped and blocked Su Xiaoxiao's path. “Damn girl! Didn't you hear me talking to you!”

Su Xiaoxiao said calmly, “I can't be bothered with you. Can't you tell? Why are you so eager to embarrass yourself? Haven't you done enough of that the last time? Do you still want to continue?”

Some people would never know what was good for them and insisted on asking for a scolding early in the morning!

Did she really think he was afraid of her? Where did her sense of superiority come from?

Madam Huang thought of how she had failed to sell their son to the Su family and was mocked instead. Her face turned red. What was wrong with this wretched girl? She was completely different from before!

Chen Haoyuan frowned. “Daya, my mother is your elder. How can you be rude to her?”

Su Xiaoxiao smiled faintly. “Cousin Scholar, your mother keeps calling me a wretched girl. When she scolded me for being blind and mute, you didn't even fart! Yet, when it's my turn to say a few words, it is construed as being rude to my elders. Oh, your mother is an elder. If she scolds me and humiliates me, I should accept it. If she brings a knife to my neck one day, should I obediently let her cut me?”

Chen Haoyuan choked.

At this moment, Madam Fang and Su Jinniang came to the well to get water.

“It's Aunt Xiu and Scholar Chen. Daya is also here.”

Madam Fang greeted him.

Su Xiaoxiao guessed why Madam Huang was there. She was most likely here to propose to Su Jinniang.

Su Xiaoxiao was right. Madam Huang was indeed here for her son's marriage today.

Madam Huang did not want to lose face in front of her future in-laws. She pulled her son and said sarcastically, “Forget it, Hao. You're going to the prefecture city to study. Don't argue with your cousin! Your cousin is illiterate. She won't understand even if I explain!”

Madam Fang smelled the animosity and advised, “It's early in the morning. Let's talk nicely.”

Madam Huang said, “I want to talk nicely too. Not everyone is like your Jinniang, who's reasonable, virtuous, and smart! Some people only care about being lazy and don't know anything. They can't even compare to Jinniang!”

After Madam Huang finished speaking, she turned around and realized that Fat Lass Su had already walked away. She wondered if Fat Lass Su had heard her words just now.

When Fatty Su scolded her, she heard every word. She was poking her lungs!

Why did Fat Lass Su leave when it was her turn to scold her?

Did she scold her for nothing?!

Madam Huang felt stifled!

Madam Fang continued to be the peacemaker. “I don't think Daya is that kind of person. Daya has become much more sensible recently.”

Madam Huang chuckled and said, “If she's half as sensible as Jinniang, I don't have to worry… After all, she's my sister-in-law's biological daughter. I originally thought that when Hao goes to the prefecture city to study, I would take care of her… ”

“Is Scholar Chen really going to study in the prefecture capital?” This was the second time Madam Huang had mentioned this. Madam Fang had no choice but to pay attention.

Madam Huang said, “Isn't that so? Only those who have the potential to become High Scholars are qualified to be recommended to the prefecture city!”

Chen Haoyuan didn't say anything, as if he had tacitly agreed that he could become a High Scholar.

Madam Fang's attitude towards the two of them instantly changed.

Originally, with Su Jinniang's looks and reputation, she did not have to worry about not being able to marry into a good family. However, no matter how good a family was, they had never produced a High Scholar.

It seemed that this marriage was most likely going to be settled.

Madam Fang smiled and said, “It's cold. Let's talk at home.”

At this point, Madam Huang finally felt relieved.

The wretched girl did not take her seriously. She thought that she was so great after marrying a handsome husband. Heh, wasn't he still a farmer? Was he as good as her son?

Her son was the future High Scholar!

Su Xiaoxiao didn't know what Madam Huang was thinking. Her schedule today was a little tight, and the road was difficult. If she wanted to come back early, she had to rush to town as soon as possible.

She did not have the time to listen to Madam Huang go crazy.

It was going to be New Year's Eve, and most of the shops on the street were closed, but the door was pasted with festive spring couplets and blessings.

In ancient times, paper was very expensive, and the couplets scholars wrote were even more valuable. Therefore, it was very rare to see anyone putting up couplets in the village.

In Su Xiaoxiao's memory, Madam Chen had pasted them once or twice when she was still alive. After she passed away, they no longer had them.

Chapter 65

Su Xiaoxiao suddenly wanted to buy a pair of couplets, but unfortunately, there was nothing left in the shops.

—

When Su Xiaoxiao arrived at Spring Willow Lane, the Fu family's courtyard door was ajar. There were a few small footprints in the snow.

Su Xiaoxiao immediately concluded that Physician Fu still hadn't returned last night.

“Aunt Fu, I'm here.”

Su Xiaoxiao pushed open the courtyard door and went to Aunt Fu's room.

Aunt Fu was sitting on the bed taking medicine. As soon as she heard Su Xiaoxiao's voice, an awkward and flustered expression flashed across her face. She hurriedly placed the medicine box on the stool at the side and turned to look inside the bed.

However, she suddenly felt that it was inappropriate to leave it outside and hid the medicine box under the blanket.

When Su Xiaoxiao crossed the threshold, she had already turned her head to the side and willfully threw Su Xiaoxiao a side profile.

Su Xiaoxiao came to the bed in amusement. “Aunt Fu, how do you feel today?”

“I won't die!” Aunt Fu said angrily.

Su Xiaoxiao smiled. “Yo, you're very energetic. It seems that the medicine worked well. You don't feel uncomfortable anymore, right? Your face is a little rosy. Did you sleep well last night?”

Aunt Fu snorted. “What's so good about it! Can't you see that my leg is broken!”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “I gave you painkillers.”

Wei Ting had not finished the painkillers. He was not afraid of pain, so Su Xiaoxiao had some painkillers left.

“Hmph!” Aunt Fu said stubbornly, “Your medicine is ineffective!”

“It's ineffective? Then where did the medicine I left for you go?” Su Xiaoxiao looked at the empty stool and asked.

Aunt Fu said, “Thrown it away!”

Su Xiaoxiao pursed her lips and held back her laughter.

“What are you laughing at!” Aunt Fu glared.

Su Xiaoxiao pouted and gestured for Aunt Fu to look at her blanket.

Aunt Fu looked down and saw that the blanket was not covered properly, revealing a few pills.

“Haha!”

If she had to laugh, she would laugh. Su Xiaoxiao wouldn't let go of the opportunity to let the little old lady die of embarrassment.

Aunt Fu's face turned red!

To be honest, she didn't believe that the medicine Su Xiaoxiao gave her would be effective at first.

Firstly, Su Xiaoxiao was just a girl from the countryside and couldn't know medicine.

Secondly, she had never seen those strange pills. Her husband practiced medicine, and so did her son. Even if she was not a doctor, she had more knowledge than others, but she had never seen a treatment method like Su Xiaoxiao's.

However, at night, her panic disappeared, and her headache lessened. She shook her head and did not feel as dizzy as usual.

As for the pain in her leg, it was not too noticeable.

When she woke up at dawn, she realized that she had slept well. She couldn't remember the last time she slept so soundly.

“When one is old, it's inevitable that there will be some problems. One will not become terminally ill all of a sudden, but it will aggravate bit by bit over time. This is the rule of birth, aging, illness, and death. You can't treat it.”

Her husband had practiced medicine for many years and treated countless people. In the end, didn't he die of illness?

Her husband's initial symptoms were the same as hers. He had changed countless prescriptions. At first, it was indeed effective, but not long after, the efficacy became weak. In the end, no prescription proved to be useful.

Su Xiaoxiao took out a stethoscope and a sphygmomanometer to measure her blood pressure. “You just got better. Don't be so pessimistic. Your mood is imperative to recovery.”

Aunt Fu's condition needed long-term control, but as long as it was controlled correctly, she could still live a long and healthy life.

In her previous life, the old lady upstairs was also a patient with high blood pressure. She was in her eighties and took care of her grandchildren every day.

Aunt Fu had witnessed her husband's death with her own eyes. Repeated disappointments destroyed her will. She did not want to experience it another time.

Therefore, even if there was some improvement, she did not believe that she could completely recover.

Su Xiaoxiao understood the patient's mentality. She was not in a hurry to persuade her with words. She would know when the time came.

Su Xiaoxiao smiled. “Have you eaten breakfast? Did your neighbors send it over? Is it delicious?”

Aunt Fu said, “You're so noisy!”

….

After leaving Aunt Fu's house, Su Xiaoxiao had an extra bag of sesame seeds in her basket.

There was also a consultation fee!

Then, Su Xiaoxiao went to Wutong Academy.

Young Master Xiang cooperated much better and obediently let Su Xiaoxiao check.

“You're recovering very well,” Su Xiaoxiao said. “Continue to consume the herbs. Your diet must be light too. Don't indulge in eating and drinking during the new year. Also, don't drink alcohol!”

Young Master Xiang smiled warmly. “Okay.”

Changping rolled his eyes. Who do you think you are, talking to my young master like this?

Su Xiaoxiao pointed at Changping and complained, “He's rolling his eyes at me!”

Young Master Xiang said seriously, “Then I'll dig out his eyeballs to apologize to Miss Su.”

Changping was shocked by his words!

Su Xiaoxiao was also stunned. “…There's no need.”

Young Master Xiang looked at the little fat girl's stunned expression and couldn't help but laugh softly.

Chapter 66

Young Master Xiang's condition was stable, so Su Xiaoxiao didn't stay any longer.

Before leaving, she took two boxes of snacks from the small basket and gave them to him.

“This is… ” Young Master Xiang looked at Su Xiaoxiao in confusion.

Su Xiaoxiao smiled. “It's going to be New Year's Eve. I made some snacks myself. I hope you don't mind.”

Changping glanced at Su Xiaoxiao. This time, he didn't dare to roll his eyes.

Young Master Xiang accepted it readily. “Miss Su, thank you.”

Actually, how could Su Xiaoxiao have remembered New Year's Eve? It was just that he had given her too much in consultation fees and for the medicine previously, so she returned a small token of appreciation.

She really had to thank Madam Huang for reminding her about New Year's Eve.

Although it was not a valuable item, with his status, he did not care about those valuable items at all. Perhaps the treasures he bought with all his assets were not worth mentioning in his eyes.

On the other hand, the snacks she made herself seemed more sincere.

“Why are there two boxes?” Young Master Xiang asked casually.

“One box is yours, and the other is Jing Yi's,” Su Xiaoxiao said.

“Jing Yi.” Young Master Xiang smiled. “It's easy for you to call him by his name.”

Su Xiaoxiao spread her hands. “He's young. What else can he be called?”

Young Master Xiang asked, “Am I very old?”

Huh?

Su Xiaoxiao wondered why he was fussing about this.

“You only said that your surname was Xiang, but you didn't say the rest of your name!”

“Chonghua,” he said.

“Huh?” Su Xiaoxiao was stunned.

“My name.” He smiled warmly.

The ancient people had surnames, names, and calligraphic words, such as Shen Chuan and Qinghe.

In this dynasty, there did not seem to be a too strict boundary between words and names. It was customary for people of the same generation to call each other names. There was no disrespect.

Scholars were polite and often addressed one another by their surname or name. It was like how a classmate might call Shen Chuan Young Master Shen or Brother Qinghe. Of course, there was nothing wrong with calling him Shen Chuan.

Did he mean that she could call him Xiang Chonghua in the future?

Or… Chong Hua?

Su Xiaoxiao blinked and said seriously, “Oh.”

….

Not long after Su Xiaoxiao left, Jing Yi came in covered in snow.

Young Master Xiang was writing.

Jing Yi came to his side and asked, “Cousin, are you testing her today?”

“No.” Young Master Xiang continued writing.

Jing Yi continued, “Then why did you tell her your words?”

Young Master Xiang glanced at Changping, who was sweeping the snow outside the door. Changping shivered and hid to the side.

“You've learned to complain to Jing Yi.” Young Master Xiang smiled faintly. “She's not a poisonous snake or a ferocious beast. There's no need to be so wary of her.”

Jing Yi frowned and said, “But you don't have to trust her so much.”

Young Master Xiang pushed a box of snacks on the table to his hand. “Here.”

“What?” Jing Yi asked.

“Gift for New Year's Eve,” Young Master Xiang said.

Jing Yi asked, “Didn't the New Year end yesterday?”

“It's the 23rd of December in the capital. It's different in Qingzhou. Today is the day.” After Young Master Xiang finished speaking, he added, “Miss Su made it herself.”

Jing Yi didn't have any prejudice against Su Xiaoxiao. He just didn't want his cousin to trust an outsider too much.

He tasted it.

“How does it taste?” Young Master Xiang asked.

Jing Yi said truthfully, “It's delicious. It's not inferior to what the imperial chef makes.”

Young Master Xiang smiled and said, “It's rare. I remember that you don't like sweets.”

Jing Yi thought for a moment and said, “It's because their food isn't delicious.”

Young Master Xiang laughed and finished writing. He placed the brush on the rest and said to Jing Yi, “Send this pair of couplets to Miss Su.”

“Why? ”

“It's my return gift. ”

Jing Yi gasped. “You want your calligraphy to fall into the hands of the commoners?”

If that person in the palace found out, he would definitely fly into a rage!

—

After Su Xiaoxiao came out of Young Master Xiang's room, she went to the study in the front courtyard to see if Shen Chuan was there.

Along the way, she did not see a bookstore that was open. She thought that Shen Chuan might have red paper and could buy some from him.

However, she came at the wrong time. Dean Shen brought Shen Chuan back to his father-in-law's house for New Year's.

Su Xiaoxiao left the academy regretfully.

The old man stopped her.

“There are no pancakes today!” Su Xiaoxiao said seriously.

The old man waved his finger. “A pancake for a piece of red paper.”

Su Xiaoxiao was speechless.

Fifteen minutes later, Su Xiaoxiao valiantly left the back door with ten pieces of red paper.

The servant asked in a low voice, “Didn't Young Master ask you to… just give the paper to Miss Su?”

The old man took a bite of the egg yolk pastry. “Hmm.”

So what?

Chapter 67

The pancakes smelled so good!

—

It snowed again in the morning. Fortunately, it only snowed for a short while before stopping, so it did not affect Su Xiaoxiao's walking.

It was noon when Su Xiaoxiao arrived at the village. At this time, most of the villagers were at their houses. However, more than half of the villagers had gathered at the Su family's house, surrounding it tightly.

“Sister! You're back!”

Su Ergou, who was fetching water at the village entrance, saw his sister. The three children, who insisted on following him to fetch water but were actually waiting for Su Xiaoxiao at the village entrance, pounced on her!

Su Xiaoxiao bent down and let the three little fellows bump into her.

She patted the heads of the three little ones. “Dahu, Erhu, Xiaohu.”

After interacting with them for a while, she could distinguish them without counting the swirls on their heads.

The three little ones, who had been called the right name, were extremely happy. They fought to rub their heads against her palm. “Mother.”

Su Xiaoxiao was gradually used to this form of address and no longer corrected them insistently.

She patted their heads and touched their hands. “Are you cold?”

The three of them shook their heads. “Not cold.”

Waiting for their mother was not cold at all!

Su Ergou was ready with his water, and the family began to walk back.

“Did something happen to the Su family?” Su Xiaoxiao asked.

Su Ergou snorted. “Cousin wrote the word ‘fortune' and some couplets for the Su family. The village chief and relatives of the Su family also received them. They even said that if there are more later, they would give them to the villagers for free. Everyone wants to see if they can grab a couplet. If they really can't, they would snatch the word ‘fortune'.”

The couplets in town were very expensive. In addition to the cost of red paper, they also had to pay the person who wrote the couplets a little money.

Madam Huang and Chen Haoyuan could be said to have spent a lot of money to make the Su family look good.

Madam Fang and Madam Yang came out to paste the couplets. Their faces were filled with joy. The villagers surrounded them and praised them non-stop.

At this moment, Auntie Wu squeezed out of the Su family with her crying grandson.

The adults cherished spring couplets, but they didn't want children. There was no choice. Auntie Wu could only leave first.

When she saw the siblings, she hurriedly said, “Daya! Ergou! Scholar Chen is writing a couplet. Hurry up and get a pair! He's your cousin! He'll definitely give it to you!”

Su Ergou rolled his eyes. Who wanted that guy's couplets?

Auntie Wu shouted, “Scholar Chen! Fatty Su and Ergou is here to ask you for a couplet!”

As soon as these words were spoken, the villagers instantly looked at the siblings.

“Didn't you say that it would be our turn after writing Old Zhang's?”

“That's right. Why is there another couplet for someone else? Are you done?”

“We can't fight with them! They're Scholar Chen's cousins!”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Everyone, you've misunderstood. We're not here for the couplets. We're just passing by.”

Madam Huang finally found an opportunity to show off. She smiled proudly and mockingly. “If you want it, just say it. We're relatives. Our Chen family can still afford it!”

Su Xiaoxiao said calmly, “I said I don't want it.”

Auntie Wu advised, “Fat Lass, don't throw a tantrum. Your aunt already said that she would give them to you. Why don't you want it?”

Su Xiaoxiao said domineeringly, “I'm not interested!”

What did Fat Lass Su say?

She… wasn't interested?

She actually looked down on the couplets written by Scholar Chen!

Fatty Su's words successfully attracted everyone's attention!

However, no one thought that she was telling the truth. On the contrary, they only felt that she was speaking out of spite!

Who was Chen Haoyuan? He was a scholar who was even more powerful than He Tongsheng. It was difficult to find another one!

On the other hand, couplets were as rare as meat in the countryside where they could only bear to eat two meals a day other than during the busy farming season!

Who didn't want a couplet during the new year?

“Sigh, I've long heard that the two families don't have a good relationship. They even made things so ugly previously,” a villager said.

They were talking about Madam Huang and her husband, Chen Feng, going to the Su family to arrange a marriage for their illegitimate son and Fatty Su. Chen Feng and his wife had their faces slapped by Fatty Su and her newlywed husband in public.

“If it were me, I wouldn't have the cheek to ask for a couplet either.”

“Madam Chen didn't argue with her and graciously offered her a couplet. Why doesn't she want it?”

“I already said that she's too ashamed to accept it.”

A few villagers discussed the matter among themselves. These people did not have this expression at the entrance of the Su family the previous time. Instead, they acted as if it had nothing to do with them and watched the show.

However, things were different now. In order to obtain the couplet written by Scholar Chen, almost everyone sided with Madam Huang.

Madam Huang was extremely comfortable with the words “forgiving and magnanimous”. In any case, she had to give away the last couplet. If she could gain a good reputation and step on this girl's face, she had no reason to disagree.

She pretended to sigh. “Everyone, stop talking. My sister-in-law passed away early so she doesn't have a mother to take care of her. It's inevitable that she's a little insensible. As her aunt, can I really argue with a child?”

These words were just short of saying that Fatty Su was motherless and did not receive a proper upbringing.

Madam Huang thought that she was being reasonable and said magnanimously, “Forget it, Fat Lass. I won't make things difficult for you. Call me Aunt. I'll give you this couplet.”

“Ah, really? Then what should we do?”

“Yes, we've been waiting for a day!”

“I'm really sorry. Fat Lass is Hao's cousin after all…”

Madam Huang was halfway through her sentence when she turned around. Fat Lass Su was gone!

Had that wretched girl left without waiting for her to finish?

“Damn girl! Stop right there!”

Madam Huang was trembling with anger!

Su Xiaoxiao held the three little ones' hands and said unhurriedly, “Ergou, tell her that I don't want the couplets written by Chen Haoyuan.”

Su Ergou turned around and shouted, “My sister said we won't want the couplet Chen Haoyuan wrote even if you pay us to accept it!”

Madam Huang extended her index finger and placed one hand on her hip. She scolded angrily, “You wretched girl! Keep being stubborn!”

Stubborn?

Su Xiaoxiao laughed angrily.

Putting aside Chen Haoyuan's character, his handwriting-

She had seen the couplets posted by Madam Fang and Madam Yang clearly. The handwriting was far inferior to Wei Ting's!

“Ergou, we'll write our own couplets when we get back.”

Su Ergou turned around again and shouted, “My sister said we'll write our own couplets when we get back!”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “You don't have to tell them this…”

Madam Huang smiled. “Okay! Go and write! If you can write it, I'll chop off my head for you!”

Did she think it was her first day getting to know Fatty Su? None of the family of three could read!

It would be fine if she didn't take their couplet! Could she even write a couplet? She was bragging!

She wanted to see how the Su family would clean up the mess!

Chapter 68

“Tiedan!”

Madam Huang called over the child of a relative of the Su family and handed him a piece of red paper. “Here, bring it to the Su family. Tell them that I, as their aunt, gave it to them. Don't they want to write their own couplets? If they don't have paper, they won't be able to write it. Don't blame me, their aunt, for not being able to afford a piece of paper!”

Was this a question of whether they could afford a piece of paper?

She was really vicious!

She knew that Fatty Su could not write a couplet at all and was just showing off, but she insisted on sending her a piece of paper.

Now, she wouldn't even have the chance to say, “I want to write, but I don't have any paper.”

The villagers clicked their tongues in their hearts, but they could not say anything on the surface. They were still waiting to ask Scholar Chen for a couplet!

“Sister, listen to my advice. Forget it,” Madam Fang said.

Madam Huang smiled and said, “I really don't mean anything else. If she can't write it, it's good to do a paper cut of a flower, right?”

At this point, Madam Fang couldn't persuade her anymore. She could only let Tiedan send the red paper to the Su family.

Unexpectedly, not long after, the ten-year-old Tiedan returned with the red paper. “The fat lass said no. She has it herself.”

Just now, when she said that they could write the couplet themselves, the villagers did not believe her. Now that she said that they had their own red paper, the villagers were even more incredulous.

Madam Huang said, “Sigh, forget it, forget it. I'm an aunt after all. Why should I be angry with a little girl? Hao, write a couplet and send it to Daya.”

She just wanted to see Fatty Su make a fool of herself. Madam Huang was going to fight with Fatty Su to the end this time!

Su Jinniang, who had been silent, suddenly said, “Daya can't write, but she has a husband.”

Madam Huang mocked, “You mean the one who learned farming from the Li family? He's just like an embroidered pillow. He looks good but is useless!”

“He can read.” Su Jinniang paused and explained, “I've seen him read letters to Daya.”

Madam Huang said disdainfully, “Who knows if he's reading blindly? If he's really literate, would he need to learn to farm?”

Madam Zhou, who lived next door to the Su family, echoed, “That's right. If he has the ability, how can he be Fatty Su's live-in son-in-law?”

This time, the villagers could not refute.

Although they recognized that Wei Ting was handsome, his merits were only limited to his looks. His ability was definitely inferior to that of Scholar Chen.

Su Jinniang frowned and silently went to her room.

–

At Little Su's house, the three little ones went to look for Father Su. They wanted to poop.

Su Ergou poured the water from the bucket into the water tank and continued to fetch water from the village entrance.

Su Xiaoxiao knocked on Wei Ting's door.

“Come in,” Wei Ting said.

Su Xiaoxiao entered with a smile.

Wei Ting was wiping his dagger at the head of the bed.

The dagger was plundered from him when Father Su tied him up and later returned to him.

Su Xiaoxiao looked at the cold blade and instinctively felt a murderous aura.

This dagger was very sharp!

From the beginning, the two of them had been suspicious of each other. Therefore, Wei Ting could not be bothered to pretend to be harmless in front of her.

Wei Ting continued to wipe the dagger. “Why are you here?”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Don't worry, I'm not looking for you to smash peanuts.”

It was going to be New Year's Eve, so she would let him rest for a day!

She came to the bed and handed the hot tea in her left hand to Wei Ting. “Are you thirsty?”

Seeing that Wei Ting did not speak, she handed him a plate of egg yolk pastry in her right hand. “Are you hungry? Does your shoulder ache? Does your waist hurt?”

Hearing this familiar line, Wei Ting did not ask her if she had something to ask of him again. Instead, he hit the nail on the head. “Why? Do you want to use me and throw me away afterward again?”

“You even learned to summarize your experience…”

Su Xiaoxiao muttered.

She smiled and put down the snacks and hot tea. She patted his shoulder like they were good brothers and said, “Look at you. What are you saying?”

Wei Ting said calmly, “Human language.”

Su Xiaoxiao was speechless.

Su Xiaoxiao smiled and said, “I won't throw you away! I promise I won't throw you away this time! I haven't even eaten a handsome husband like you. How can I bear to throw you away!”

Listen, did this sound like what a decent girl would say?

Wei Ting choked on her shameless and explicit words. He gritted his teeth and said, “What nonsense are you thinking about all day!”

Su Xiaoxiao said solemnly, “I won't allow you to say that about yourself!”

Wei Ting was speechless.

Su Xiaoxiao's goal was actually very simple. She wanted Wei Ting to write a pair of couplets.

Su Xiaoxiao smiled and said, “It's almost the new year. It'll be so festive to paste a pair of couplets!”

Wei Ting said coldly, “I don't want to write it now. I'll do it tomorrow.”

Chapter 69

Su Xiaoxiao hurriedly said, “Today!”

Wei Ting asked, “Why must it be today?”

Su Xiaoxiao's eyes darted around. “Because… it's New Year's Eve today?”

Wei Ting chuckled. “I think you made a bet with someone, right?”

Su Xiaoxiao blinked. “Uh… you know?”

How could he not know? Even the neighboring village had heard Su Ergou's loud voice.

Su Ergou had already said those harsh words, putting Su Xiaoxiao in a difficult position. If she couldn't produce a pair of couplets, she would be humiliated.

“Are you going to write it or not?”

“No,” Wei Ting refused.

Su Xiaoxiao narrowed her eyes dangerously. “Are you really not going to write it?”

Wei Ting said calmly, “I won't write it. I've said so.”

Su Xiaoxiao placed her hands on her hips. “You really want to see me embarrass myself, right? Don't forget, you're my husband! If I embarrass myself, you won't be any better!”

Wei Ting said calmly, “I don't care.”

Su Xiaoxiao was speechless.

Just as Su Xiaoxiao was gritting her teeth, someone knocked on the back door of the kitchen.

Su Xiaoxiao thought that it was Little Wu. She glared at Wei Ting angrily and turned to open the door.

Unexpectedly, it was Su Jinniang.

Su Jinniang was wearing a brand new pink floral cotton shirt and a white embroidered jacket. To be honest, it was not the authentic pink color but an unforgiving shade. If her foundation was slightly worse, it was very likely that she would look dull and old-fashioned.

However, Su Jinniang could carry it off. She was not called the village belle for nothing.

“Why are you at my house?” Su Xiaoxiao asked calmly.

She did not think that she could have any interaction with Su Jinniang in private. Su Jinniang clearly had a motive for her sudden visit.

Su Jinniang glanced in the direction of the courtyard and central room. “Are you alone in your house?”

“Who are you looking for?” Su Xiaoxiao was logical and didn't waste her breath on her.

Su Jinniang frowned. It was unknown if it was because she didn't like Su Xiaoxiao's attitude or if there was something else.

“For you.” Su Jinniang took off the cloth on the basket and handed a roll of red paper to Su Xiaoxiao.

Su Xiaoxiao unfolded it and saw that it was a couplet.

Su Xiaoxiao looked at her strangely. “Su Jinniang, what do you mean by this?”

Su Jinniang said, “Su Daya, I'm here to help you. You don't have to be so hostile to me!”

Her voice was a little loud.

Su Xiaoxiao raised her eyebrows. “You, Su Jinniang, are helping me?”

When she was young, she was ostracized but Su Jinniang never pulled her friends from the village to play with her. Why did she suddenly become so kind?

Su Jinniang said seriously, “You contradicted your aunt in front of so many people just now. She'll come over soon to mock you. Take this couplet and use it. It can't compare to Scholar Chen's. After all, I bought it from town. But it's enough to deal with your aunt!”

The village belle's actions were really strange. She had scolded her previously, but this time, she came to help her.

Su Jinniang continued, “Get your husband to say that he wrote it. It should be able to fool your aunt.”

Su Xiaoxiao crossed her arms. “Su Jinniang, my aunt is your future mother-in-law. Instead of taking her side, you secretly came over to help me?”

Su Jinniang frowned and said, “My marriage hasn't been decided. I might not marry into the Chen family.”

Su Xiaoxiao raised her eyebrows. “Oh, is that what your family wants?”

“You worry about yourself! Your aunt is coming over soon! Whether you want to embarrass yourself or not is up to you!”

With that, Su Jinniang didn't care if Su Xiaoxiao wanted to accept the couplet or not and left without looking back!

She seemed to be walking very quickly, but she had actually been paying attention to the Su family.

As she heard Fatty Su close the back door, the man's face flashed across her mind, and her heart raced.

He… should have heard it, right?

Did he know that she had come to help?

Would he be grateful to her?

Su Xiaoxiao took the couplet to Wei Ting's room.

Wei Ting was still wiping his dagger.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “It's already shining. There's no need to wipe it!”

Wei Ting said, “I like it.”

Su Xiaoxiao curled her lips and threw the couplet on the table in front of him.

“What?” Wei Ting asked.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “It's a couplet given by Su Jinniang! How strange. She clearly doesn't have a good relationship with me and even exposed my shortcomings in front of you the last time, but she came to help me today!”

“You didn't ask her why.” To be honest, Wei Ting wasn't interested.

Su Xiaoxiao spread her hands. “I asked! I said that my aunt is her future mother-in-law. Shouldn't she help her instead? Guess what she said? She said that she might not marry Scholar Chen! What is Su Jinniang up to? By the way, she even reminded me to be on good terms with you and say that you wrote the couplet! She's quite thoughtful. Our family of three can't read, and only you, a foreign son-in-law, can lie.”

Wei Ting said, “The couplet that has just been written is wet. In this weather, it won't dry for half a day.”

Su Xiaoxiao looked thoughtful. “You're right. Then Su Jinniang would have given it to me for nothing! I would still be exposed! I thought she was so smart, but it turns out that she's only so-so!”

Wei Ting looked at a certain fat girl. “How do you do business with your brain? You're so stupid!”

Su Xiaoxiao stood up and said angrily, “Who are you calling stupid? Anyway, you're not writing it! If I can't produce the couplet, I'll be mocked! So what if I'm exposed? It doesn't matter!”

Bang!

She slammed the door and left!

“Give it to me!”

Wei Ting said in a low voice.

“Pour your own water! Take your own food!”

“Paper.”

“Huh? Husband, what did you say?” Su Xiaoxiao switched to a Loli voice and pushed open the door. She stuck her head in and blinked at him.

There was no one else who could change their attitude so quickly.

The corners of Wei Ting's mouth twitched as he said coldly, “Am I going to write the couplet?”

“Hehe, hubby is the best!” Su Xiaoxiao smiled and went to the central room to get the red paper.

The brush and ink had been bought when she prescribed Young Master Xiang's medicine in the past and had always been placed in Wei Ting's room.

“Grind the ink,” Wei Ting said expressionlessly.

“Okay!” Su Xiaoxiao agreed with a smile.

She took out an inkstone and ink block. As she ground the ink, she said earnestly, “I think Su Jinniang probably didn't want me to be exposed on purpose. She probably just wanted to help and didn't think too much. We have to be grateful to her, especially you, husband. Don't have a bad impression of her because of this.”

Wei Ting glanced at her with a complicated expression. Did this girl realize everything?

Su Xiaoxiao shook her head decisively. “I don't understand anything. I'm just an innocent little pitiful girl!”

The cunning Su Xiaoxiao was chased out by Wei Ting.

Chapter 70

Madam Huang did as she said and really came to the door with a couplet that had just been written.

Just as Wei Ting had said, the weather was cold and the ink was drying slowly. Madam Huang did not want to get herself covered in it. She got Tiedan and the other child to hold them with both hands.

The ink was still wet when they came over.

Chen Haoyuan's first verse was “Flying Snow Welcomes the New Spring”, and the second verse was “Firecrackers Welcomes the New Year”.

Other than the two children holding the couplet, there were also many villagers who were there to watch the show.

Madam Huang was here to avenge her previous humiliation. She couldn't wait for more people to witness the tables being turned!

Madam Zhou, who was next door to the Su family, also came to join in the fun.

Madam Zhou wanted to watch the world burn. Before Madam Huang could speak, she shouted, “Fatty Su! Come out quickly! Your aunt has sent you a couplet!”

The villagers surrounded the entrance of the Su family. Those who didn't know better would think that Fat Lass Su was holding another happy occasion.

Su Xiaoxiao slowly walked out with a half-eaten corn cob. Her gaze swept across everyone and landed on Madam Zhou's high cheekbones. She said, “So my aunt gave me a couplet. Why are you so excited? Is it for you? Or do you want to wait for me to reject it so you can claim them for yourself?”

“You!” Madam Zhou's thoughts were exposed and she immediately felt embarrassed.

The person in the village who loved to stir up trouble was Madam Zhou. If it weren't for the fact that Madam Zhou couldn't provoke Su Xiaoxiao's family of three tyrants, she might have made things up about Su Xiaoxiao.

Of course, it was not that she did not do so, but she did not dare to go too far.

Su Xiaoxiao had an extremely bad impression of this person, so she wouldn't show her any mercy.

Madam Zhou was speechless. She was really useless.

Fortunately, Madam Huang did not expect Madam Zhou to help her. She had come prepared. It was enough to crush this girl alone!

She looked at Su Xiaoxiao and sighed. “Yaya, Aunt knows that what you said just now was all in spite. How can you write any couplets? If you knew how to write, you would have taken it out and pasted it.”

Su Xiaoxiao shook her head secretly.

She thought that these people were bad at tea and talk. Compared to Madam Li, they were all trash.

Madam Li was a real figure in the business world. But Su Xiaoxiao had enough on her to confront these people.

“What if I can produce them?” Su Xiaoxiao didn't waste her breath on Madam Huang and went straight to the point. “Does what Aunt said just now still count?”

Madam Huang sneered. “Heh, of course, it counts! If you can write it! I'll chop off my head!”

Didn't she understand the Su family?

Other than knowing the banknotes, they could not read anything else! Write couplets? In their next life!

“Sure.” Su Xiaoxiao nodded and said to Su Ergou, who had returned with the water, “Bring out the machete.”

“Alright!”

Su Ergou put down the bucket and quickly brought over a butcher knife. “Sister, I can't find the machete. Is the butcher knife okay?”

Everyone was shocked!

Madam Huang's face turned pale. “Su Daya! Do you want to kill someone?”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “No, Aunt wanted to cut off her head herself. I was afraid that you wouldn't have a knife, so I prepared it for you.”

Madam Huang said coldly, “Su Daya! Let's talk about the couplet now! What nonsense!”

“Ergou,” Su Xiaoxiao said. “Go to your brother-in-law's room and get the couplet.”

Does my brother-in-law have a couplet in his room?

Su Ergou went in and out of Wei Ting's room with a dumbfounded expression. The couplet was hanging on his arms.

Everyone was shocked. No way? The Su family really wrote the couplet?

“Impossible!” Madam Huang refused to believe that the Su family could write a couplet. They even wrote… She couldn't read, but she could count.

This couplet clearly had more words than her son's.

Madam Huang screamed, “You… you bought them in town, right? That's right! That must be it! I saw you going to town this morning! You must have gone to buy them!”

Su Xiaoxiao tapped the couplet with her chubby finger. “Open your eyes and see clearly! The ink hasn't even dried!”

The villagers went forward to admire.

“You're not allowed to touch it!” Su Ergou said fiercely.

Everyone hurriedly retracted their fingers.

They saw it clearly. The ink was wet and emitted a rich ink fragrance. It was obvious that it had just been written.

Moreover, because they were close, they made a new discovery.

Little Su's couplet paper… seemed to be of a better color compared to Scholar Chen's!

It was also thicker!

Chapter 71

Furthermore, it was smooth and the color would not bleed!

It actually didn't lose its color!

The youngest son of the village chief could not help but touch it. It was really not dirty!

Chen Haoyuan used the most ordinary red paper, the kind that was colored with a slot. The quality of the dye was not good, so after he bought it, the color loss was very serious. Tiedan and the other child with the couplet had their hands dyed red.

In addition, the patterns on Chen Haoyuan's red paper were uneven. Not only did it soak the paper, but the ink was also slightly smudged.

The red paper that Su Xiaoxiao brought back from the academy was ordered by Dean Shen from the prefecture city at a high price. The bottom paper was rice paper and used the best dye technology. Moreover, it was thickened by an additional layer. It was naturally smooth and did not get soaked or lose color. The color was also purer.

Dean Shen had bought it for Young Master Xiang and could not bear to use it himself. Shen Chuan took out ten pieces and asked the old man to give them to Su Xiaoxiao!

Even a fool could tell that the Su family's couplet was more than a level higher than Scholar Chen's.

The villagers were thinking-they had heard that Fat Lass Su had brought Su Ergou to do business in town. Could it be that she had really earned money?

However, Madam Huang's inner thoughts were-No! This is not true! How could a vulgar girl like Fatty Su be worthy of better paper than his son?

Madam Huang's face turned green and red, and her heart was about to explode. “You, you… Who knows what you wrote? Can you say that it's a couplet just by randomly drawing? In that case, can I buy a few pieces of paper and scribble?”

Su Xiaoxiao smiled. “It's fine if Aunt can't read. I'll read it to you.”

“The first verse: Spring in all the lakes and seas! The second verse: All the rivers and mountains will shine! The horizontal verse-Myriad Phenomena Update!”

She had recently learned some words. This couplet happened to be within her knowledge. But if Wei Ting had written another word, she would not be able to recognize it all.

Everyone gasped.

They must have seen a ghost!

Fat Lass Su read the couplet?

She, Fatty Su, could read?!

Was this still the same fat bully who extorted money all day long?

Heavens! Earth!

Had the sow gone up the tree?

The sun had risen from the west!

Everyone's jaws dropped! No one spoke for a long time!

Su Xiaoxiao liked the effect of blinding everyone who didn't believe in her!

She raised her chin and placed her chubby hand behind her back. She said proudly, “My husband taught me!”

Alright, she had actually secretly learned it. Wei Ting was not so kind as to teach her!

Madam Huang did not believe it!

How could this wretched girl be so lucky?

Had she recruited a fairy-like live-in son-in-law who was actually a scholar?

No, no. Being able to write did not mean that he was a scholar. Some people only knew a few words in their early years but did not make much of it in the end.

She had heard from the Su family that Su Cheng and his new live-in son-in-law often went to look for the Qian family to farm.

Did he really have the ability to write couplets? Wasn't copying books for others more profitable than farming?

Madam Huang immediately concluded that the words in the couplet were not proper words. Even if they were, they were like those bumpkins in the countryside who had only studied for a few years. Who knew what had been written?

As for Fatty Su, she definitely didn't read on the spot. She memorized it in advance!

It didn't matter if Madam Huang was paranoid or couldn't bear to see others live well. In short, she felt that there must be something going on!

She said to Tiedan, “Go, call Hao over! Let him recognize what's written on that couplet!”

Tiedan went obediently.

Su Xiaoxiao laughed.

Madam Huang pointed at Su Xiaoxiao and said, “Wretched girl, what are you laughing at!”

Su Xiaoxiao raised her eyebrows. “I'm laughing at you for being stupid.”

Madam Huang got someone to expose her for writing fake couplets, but when Chen Haoyuan came over and saw Wei Ting's words, would he really not feel inferior?

“Do you want to call the village head over too?” Su Xiaoxiao said provocatively.

The villagers could not read and would believe whatever Chen Haoyuan said.

She remembered that the village head was literate and was quite fair.

Madam Huang snorted. “So be it! Who's afraid of whom! Do you expect the village head to protect you? Impossible!”

Oh, what was Madam Huang thinking? Did she think that she had called the village head over to protect the villagers?

The villagers had also been led astray by Madam Huang. At first, they felt that Fatty Su was fearless. The words in this couplet were most likely not written blindly. However, after Madam Huang shouted, they felt that Fatty Su was doing the Su family a favor.

Would the village head agree?

This show was really getting more and more interesting.

The village head lived next door to Old Li's house. The two of them came over again. Unlike the time when Madam Wan and Wang Laizi's wife came to cause trouble, Old Li was illiterate. He had no right to interrupt today.

He was just worried about Daya.

He saw the change in the Su family and really did not want them to be maliciously hurt again.

“Village Head.”

Chen Haoyuan also came over and greeted him.

The Village Head nodded politely. “Scholar Chen.”

“Mother, what happened?” Chen Haoyuan asked Madam Huang.

At the door, Su Ergou had already pasted the couplet with red and black words on his wall. The banner was also pasted properly!

Madam Huang waved her hand and pointed. “Take a look at what's written on that couplet!”

Chen Haoyuan looked over.

It was fine if he didn't look, but when he did, he froze.

Seeing her son's reaction, Madam Huang couldn't help but urge, “Hao, what's wrong? Say something? Is it nonsense?”

The villagers' attention landed on Chen Haoyuan.

To be honest, they were indeed illiterate, but for some reason, the couplets of the Su family were more pleasing to the eye than those of Chen Xiucai's.

Chen Haoyuan stared at the couplet and clenched his fists bit by bit, revealing a look of disbelief.

“Who wrote this?” he asked.

Chapter 72

“My brother-in-law wrote it!” Su Ergou straightened his back and said!

“What does it say?” Madam Huang continued to ask her son.

Chen Haoyuan was shocked and rendered speechless by the calligraphy on the couplet. His throat felt like it was stuffed with cotton, and he couldn't say a word.

He prided himself on his outstanding calligraphy and was often praised by the teachers. However, if one compared his calligraphy to the words on the couplet, it would not be an exaggeration to say that it was inferior!

At the side, the village head read out boldly, “All the lakes and seas are in spring! All the rivers and mountains are shining! The Myriad Phenomena update! Well written, well written!”

Everyone looked at each other.

The village head and Fatty Su read the same thing! The village head even praised this couplet for being well-written!

When Scholar Chen wrote the couplet just now, although the village head also praised it, his attitude was not so intense!

“Is this couplet real, Village Head?” a villager asked.

“Are there fake couplets?” The village head was puzzled.

The wife of the Sun family said, “Just now, Scholar Chen's mother said that the couplets of the Su family are scribbles. They're nonsense.”

The village head said seriously, “If this couplet is nonsense! Then everyone's couplets would be nonsense!”

There was no one else who wrote couplets today. Did Scholar Chen write nonsense?

In the heart of the village head, this couplet was even more exquisite than Scholar Chen's!

“The words are good, the mood is good, and the paper… is good.” It was so good that he was at a loss for words.

“Son!” Madam Huang placed her last hope on Chen Haoyuan.

His son was a scholar and was the most knowledgeable. His words carried the most weight. As long as his son said that the Su family's couplet was wrong, it was wrong!

Chen Haoyuan was unwilling to admit that his handwriting was inferior to that of a country bumpkin. However, the cold sweat on his forehead betrayed him.

Su Xiaoxiao would not let go of this opportunity to give Scholar Chen a slap in the face. After all, he was always arrogant, as if he was the best in the world and everyone else was a toad in a pond!

“Aiya, Cousin, why aren't you saying anything? Is it because my husband's couplet is too good that you feel inferior?”

The villagers did not understand what it meant to feel inferior, but Scholar Chen looked up in shock.

At this moment, he really felt that Su Daya was different!

In the past, Su Daya would not be able to do anything. If she was anxious, she would attack. If she really wanted to scold someone, it would be with words that underscored her ignorance!

Could it be… that it was all taught by that rumored cousin-in-law?

Wasn't he a bumpkin?

“Sister! He definitely didn't write as well as Brother-in-law!” Su Ergou was a little fan.

The siblings echoed each other, making Madam Huang and Scholar Chen extremely awkward.

Madam Huang said, “You're from the same village, so of course, you're speaking up for your own village!”

She was accusing the village head of being unfair and deliberately biased toward the Su family.

The villagers were unhappy to hear this.

Madam Huang was not too smart. Originally, in order to obtain the couplet personally written by Scholar Chen, everyone tried their best to curry favor with Madam Huang.

Even the villagers who were usually just watching the show were helping her watch Fatty Su make a fool of herself.

They were already biased toward Madam Huang, yet they were beaten to death by her words. Did she say that they only protected their own villagers?

They admitted that the Chen family's couplet was fragrant, but they were here to seek auspiciousness, not annoyance!

She really was really egoistic!

Madam Huang realized that she had said something wrong, but it was too late.

The villagers were no longer on her side.

Seeing that Madam Huang had courted death, Su Xiaoxiao shouted in her heart that she deserved it!

After all, the village head was not a proper scholar. His taste was limited. He might not have been convincing when he said that Wei Ting's couplets were well-written.

Madam Huang thought so too.

Her son was the only scholar here. As long as her son did not admit it, the Su family's couplet was nothing!

“Eh? Look! There's a carriage coming over!”

A villager pointed in the direction of the village entrance.

Seeing a carriage in Xinghua Village was equivalent to seeing a luxury car in the ravine in her previous life. That was quite rare.

Was he here to look for the village head?

The carriage did not go into the main house. Instead, it stopped at the entrance of the Su family.

“Village Head, they must be looking for you, right?” the wife of the Sun family said.

The village head shook his head. He did not know this carriage and had never seen the driver.

Among everyone present, only Chen Haoyuan recognized that this was Dean Shen's carriage. The coachman was a servant of the academy.

Chapter 73

Only he could build a relationship with the academy.

Could it be… that he was here for him?

So who was in the carriage?

Was it the dean?

No, no. The dean would not come here personally.

But what if?

Did the dean value him so much that he wanted to visit him personally?

The curtain of the carriage was opened by a folding fan, and a young man in a sky-green robe jumped out.

He was tall and handsome. There was a young man's aura and heroic spirit between his eyebrows, and there was no lack of scholarly aura.

However, he didn't seem supercilious.

He was wearing expensive clothes with a jade belt and a clear Hetian jade pendant.

It was obvious that he was the young master of a rich family!

Madam Huang asked softly, “Hao, who is he?”

Chen Haoyuan frowned and said, “Dean Shen's son.”

Madam Huang was shocked. “Your dean's son? He's here for you, right, Hao?”

The dean's son personally came to visit and even found Xinghua Village from Willow Village. How big was this?

She had recovered her dignity!

Madam Huang pulled Chen Haoyuan forward with a smile and said excitedly, “Young Master Shen! You're here for my son, right? My son is here!”

“Eh? You're here too.” Shen Chuan looked at Chen Haoyuan in surprise.

These words made the hearts of Madam Huang and Chen Haoyuan skip a beat.

From Shen Chuan's tone, he was not here for her son.

“I'm looking for Miss Su!” Shen Chuan asked. “Is this Miss Su's house?”

Shen Chuan was surrounded by the villagers and did not see Su Xiaoxiao eating corn cobs leisurely behind the crowd.

When the villagers heard this, they didn't think of Su Xiaoxiao immediately.

After all, Fatty Su was a bully.

The only person they called Miss Su was Su Jinniang of the Su family!

At this moment, Madam Fang walked over with Su Jinniang.

Madam Zhou quickly waved at the two of them. “Jinniang! A young master is looking for you! Who are you again?”

She asked Shen Chuan.

“Oh, I'm from Wutong Academy. My name is Shen Chuan.” Shen Chuan was very polite. He did not look down on her just because she was a village woman.

“He's from the same academy as Scholar Chen!”

“He's so handsome!”

“I think I heard Scholar Chen say just now that he's the dean's son.”

“Why is the dean's son looking for Jinniang? Don't tell me he's also looking for Jinniang to propose marriage?”

Su Jinniang and Madam Fang came to the crowd and heard the villagers' discussion.

Madam Fang was stunned.

Su Jinniang also looked at him in shock.

Shen Chuan's appearance and bearing were flawless. Although he was not as heaven-defying as Wei Ting, he was more than a level higher than Chen Haoyuan.

Moreover, he was the dean's son! What a noble status!

If he was really here to propose marriage to the Su family…

The collective hearts of Madam Fang and Su Jinniang thumped.

Shen Chuan said, “You're mistaken. The person I'm looking for isn't her. It's Su Daya!”

What?

Su Daya?

“Make way, make way.”

Su Xiaoxiao casually patted the villagers blocking the door.

Everyone made way for her in a daze.

Shen Chuan finally saw her. His eyes lit up as he went forward and said, “Miss Su! It's really your house! Looks like I didn't find the wrong person! However, is your family holding a happy occasion? Why are there so many people?”

“Sigh.” Su Xiaoxiao sighed. “There's no joyous occasion. It was just about a couplet. Shen Chuan, you came at the right time. Help me see how this couplet is!”

He called her by her name! Did they know each other? They were quite familiar with each other?!

Was this really the Su Daya they knew?!

The villagers were all dumbfounded.

Chen Haoyuan was as shocked as everyone else.

He was fearless if he didn't know, but he understood.

He had been studying in the academy for five years, but he could not directly call Young Master Shen Chuan!

It was not that they were inferior, but that their relationship was not that close!

After Shen Chuan finished admiring it seriously, he could not hide his admiration and said, “Which expert did you hire to write your couplet? The words are very elegant! The meaning is good!”

“Compared to this?” Su Xiaoxiao pointed at the couplet in Tiedan's hand.

Shen Chuan did not know that Chen Haoyuan had written it. He took a look and said bluntly, “How can this be compared? This is far inferior to the one on your wall!”

Did they hear that?

The young master of Wutong Academy personally said that Scholar Chen's couplet was inferior to the Su family's!

Now, no one was wronged anymore!

The village head nodded in satisfaction. He knew it. The couplets of the Su family were better! His taste was right!

Madam Huang panicked. “Young Master Shen, how can you speak up for outsiders? In the future, when you go to the prefecture city to study with my son, in the words of you scholars, that is… you're from the same hometown! You have to take care of each other!”

Shen Chuan looked at Madam Huang strangely. “Eh? Don't you know? Chen Haoyuan isn't on the list of people going to the prefecture city this time!”

Madam Huang said without thinking, “How can it be? Impossible!”

Shen Chuan said, “Why would I lie to you? The name list was released a few days ago. The students who are going to the prefecture city have long been informed and have gone to settle the city road guide.”

Chen Haoyuan hadn't received any news. He thought that the list would only be posted at the beginning of spring… Was that the truth?

“W-why?” He couldn't accept it.

Shen Chuan sighed. “I'm also very puzzled. I clearly told my father that you're Miss Su's cousin.”

Everyone looked at the mother and son differently.

Madam Huang had been bragging for the entire morning that Chen Haoyuan was going to the prefecture city to take the imperial examination. How was she going to clean up this mess?

Chen Haoyuan's face burned. He wished he could find a hole to hide in.

“Scholar Chen, don't be discouraged. Whether you go to the prefecture city to study isn't the most important. As long as you study hard, you will one day stand out.”

The village head disregarded what had happened and comforted Chen Haoyuan, but in Chen Haoyuan's ears, it was equivalent to ridicule.

He said nothing and his expression was extremely ugly.

At the side, Madam Huang finally couldn't take the continuous blows and fainted.

Chapter 74

Chen Haoyuan looked at Su Xiaoxiao, who was talking to Shen Chuan as if no one was around, and a guess suddenly flashed across his mind.

“Su Daya! Did… did you do something behind my back!”

Su Xiaoxiao paused in her eating and looked at him in confusion.

Was Chen Haoyuan crazy?

Was he blaming her for tampering with the spot?

If she had the time, she might as well make a few more pancakes!

Shen Chuan did not expect Chen Haoyuan to slander his cousin like this. What did his failure to get selected have to do Miss Su? How did he become her cousin?

Su Xiaoxiao said incredulously, “Chen Haoyuan, are you alright? Just because you didn't get selected, you're blaming me?”

Chen Haoyuan said hatefully, “If it weren't for you, why would I have failed?”

Su Xiaoxiao said calmly, “How would I know? I'm not from your academy!”

Chen Haoyuan gritted his teeth. “You're really despicable!”

As soon as he finished speaking, Father Su, who had finished taking care of the three children, walked out with a livid expression.

He strode up to Chen Haoyuan and slapped him without a word!

Su Cheng did not show mercy with this slap and slapped Chen Haoyuan to the ground!

Everyone was shocked, and the scene was instantly silent. Although Su Cheng was bad, he did not treat the Chen family badly. It could even be said that he gave them whatever they wanted.

It was really his first time beating up a scholar of the Chen family on the first day of the Lunar New Year!

“Hao!” Madam Huang, who had fainted on the ground, jumped up.

The corners of everyone's mouth twitched. Had she been pretending to faint?

Madam Huang was very embarrassed that she couldn't clean up the mess, so she decided to pretend to faint. However, now that her son had been beaten up, she couldn't be bothered to continue pretending.

She hurriedly helped her son sit up.

Looking at the swollen side of her son's face and the skin at the corner of his mouth, she was furious. She pointed at Su Cheng and scolded, “Su Cheng! You're crazy! Why did you hit my son!”

Su Cheng said coldly, “I've tolerated your family for a long time. You know very well how much money you've asked for and how much money you've spent! I didn't argue with you because of Su Niang! The Chen family gave birth to Su Niang after all, and I'll help her repay the debt to her family! But after so many years, all the kindness has been paid for! Don't think about bullying our children again! From now on, our Su family has nothing to do with your Chen family!”

“This slap is just a small lesson. If you dare to cause trouble at my house again, it won't be as simple as a slap!”

Su Cheng's attitude tore off the last cover of the Su and Chen families.

The reason why Madam Huang dared to cause trouble time and time again was that as the head of the family, Su Cheng had never fallen out with the Chen family. No matter how Fat Lass Su caused trouble, she was still a girl.

Madam Huang did not really take Fatty Su seriously.

In Madam Huang's opinion, the real deciding factor was Su Cheng's attitude.

And it was impossible for Su Cheng to fall out with the Chen family in his life!

However, Madam Huang had been wrong from the beginning. It was true that Su Cheng tolerated the Chen family, but in Su Cheng's heart, his daughter was the most important. In the past, the Chen family had only made things difficult for him and had never created any trouble for his daughter.

Now that the Chen family had bullied his daughter repeatedly, it would be strange if he could tolerate this!

Su Xiaoxiao gave Father Su a thumbs up in her heart. How cool was he!

He should draw a line with the Chen family!

Don't let this family suck the blood of the late Madam Chen again!

Su Ergou felt relieved. He asked Su Xiaoxiao excitedly, “Sister, can I… beat them up in the future?”

He thought that his voice was very soft, but Madam Huang heard him.

Madam Huang trembled.

Was there no end to it? Was it the younger one's turn to beat them up now that the older one was done?

“You, you, you… Your Su family, just wait! My son is a scholar! He doesn't even have to kneel when he sees the county magistrate! You hit my son. You won't let this matter go!”

Madam Huang bluffed and helped the dejected Scholar Chen up before leaving dejectedly under the laughter of the villagers.

“Alright, alright, disperse. What's there to see!” Father Su waved at the villagers impatiently.

Su Ergou pointed at the couplets on the wall and said, “Dad, our family pasted them. Brother-in-law wrote them!”

Father Su raised his chin in a second and said to the villagers, “Oh, then you can look as long as you want!”

He was immensely proud.

“Are there any more couplets?” Father Su asked Su Ergou.

“Yes, Dad,” Su Ergou said. “Brother-in-law wrote a few.”

Su Cheng placed his hands behind his back and said generously, “Take them all out! If there's anything the villagers like…”

Everyone's eyes lit up!

Su Cheng said, “They can take a few more glances.”

Everyone was speechless.

—

Shen Chuan came to look for Su Xiaoxiao today for two things. The first was to deliver something, and the second was… to deliver something.

Shen Chuan carried another big bag down from the carriage. “I just returned from my grandfather's house. My father asked me to bring it to you. It's a local specialty of my grandfather's locale!”

“Dean Shen?” Su Xiaoxiao was puzzled.

Shen Chuan smiled and said, “He didn't say it himself, but when I suggested sending you some, he didn't object. With my understanding of my father, this is tacit consent!”

Seeing that Su Xiaoxiao was still puzzled, he explained, “Didn't I mention it to you before? You saved Young Master Xiang and resolved my father's urgent need. You also created many opportunities for me to get close to Young Master Xiang. My father remembers it!”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Oh.”

Shen Chuan handed her a brocade box. “In addition, when I left the academy, I bumped into Young Master Jing coming to give you the couplet, so I brought it over for him. It's Young Master Xiang's calligraphy treasure. Even my father is envious of it. You have to keep it carefully!”

“Okay.” Su Xiaoxiao took it.

Rich people were indeed different. A couplets was packed in such an exquisite brocade box.

Su Xiaoxiao thought to herself that it would have been better if he had come earlier. Then, she wouldn't have had to work hard to curry favor with Wei Ting…

Shen Chuan looked at the couplets on the wall and said thoughtfully, “But I think your family's couplets are also quite good. They're comparable to Young Master Xiang's!”

This evaluation was very rare. After all, Young Master Xiang's calligraphy had been personally praised by Dean Shen.

Su Xiaoxiao was not proficient in calligraphy. She could tell when the difference was great, but not when both are comparable.

“Who wrote it?” Shen Chuan asked curiously.

“Oh, someone,” Su Xiaoxiao said calmly.

Jing Yi had investigated her, but Shen Chuan had not. She had never mentioned it herself, so Shen Chuan did not know about her supposed marriage and had always called her Miss Su.

In the small east room, Wei Ting, who was writing couplets, snorted coldly.

Heh, was this the promise not to throw him away after using him?

A woman's mouth was made for lying!

Wei Ting casually glanced at the three brats who were scribbling around the table. The corners of his lips curled up as he shouted unhurriedly, “Wife, Xiaohu peed!”

Xiao Hu was speechless.

And so was Shen Chuan.

Su Xiaoxiao clenched her chubby fists and gritted her teeth!

Wei Ting!

Chapter 75

When Su Xiaoxiao entered Wei Ting's room with a dark expression, Xiaohu was trying to pee.

“Xiaohu didn't pee.”

He waved his small hands at Su Xiaoxiao seriously.

“I know.” Su Xiaoxiao touched his head and said to him and Dahu, “Go and help Uncle Ergou paste the couplets.”

The three of them put down the paper and pen on the table and left.

After writing a couplet, Wei Ting was writing the word “fortune”.

Su Xiaoxiao slapped the table and said fiercely, “Wei Ting, what were you trying to do?”

Wei Ting continued to write leisurely. “Has your little lover left?”

Su Xiaoxiao narrowed her eyes. “Why? Are you jealous?”

Wei Ting sneered. “Heh, you're thinking too much. I just think that everything has to be fair. If I'm not allowed to attract bees and butterflies in the village, don't even think about fooling around outside.”

Su Xiaoxiao clenched her chubby fists again.

Logically speaking, she did not have any improper thoughts about Shen Chuan and did not have any intention of falling in love. Furthermore, Shen Chuan clearly did not have any intention of doing so.

However, what if there was really development between her and Shen Chuan other than business? Shen Chuan was actually a good candidate.

Now, before the seeds could grow, Wei Ting would peel them first!

Su Xiaoxiao was a bully. “Be careful. If I can't get married one day, I'll really make you take the responsibility!”

Wei Ting said calmly, “You can't do it.”

….

In the afternoon, the peanuts and sesame seeds at home were ground.

Su Ergou went to Old Li's house to borrow his millstone. Su Xiaoxiao asked him to bring a couplet, four blessings, and a large piece of red paper.

“Don't forget about the village head and Auntie Liu.”

They had to build a good relationship.

Auntie Liu's land was close to the Li family's. When Father Su learned farming from Madam Qian, he accidentally caused trouble on someone else's land.

When Chen Haoyuan was writing the couplet in the Su family, Auntie Liu and Madam Qian didn't go to watch the commotion. They thought that they could only envy others, but they didn't expect their own family to have one too!

Theirs was even better!

In comparison, the Chen family's efforts were completely insufficient!

Madam Qian and Auntie Liu didn't know how to do paper cuts and came to look for Su Xiaoxiao. Su Xiaoxiao helped to cut them. They were exquisite and festive!

“I didn't expect Fat Lass to have such ability!” Auntie Liu's mother-in-law sighed sincerely.

“She's very capable!” The wife of the Sun family, who had come to visit, said. “She went to town to sell pancakes and earned a lot of money! I heard from Liu An's wife that they have meat every meal!”

Who would have thought that the Su family, who had once relied on extortion to survive, could go to town to do business?

If they weren't possessed, they were lucky.

Auntie Liu thought for a moment and said, “He found a good son-in-law.”

The wife of the Sun family muttered, “Master Wei is handsome and literate. Why did he marry into the Su family? Was there a big problem?”

Auntie Liu glared at her. “Why are you like Madam Zhou? You can't live a good life, right?”

The wife of the Sun family said, “I was just saying. Is there a need to be so angry?”

“Say whatever you like. Just don't say it at my house!” Auntie Liu chased her away!

In the past, her mother-in-law would have said a few choice words to Auntie Liu, but looking at the couplet and red paper on the table, her mother-in-law fell silent.

On this day, the discussions about the Su family in the village did not stop. They took on various tones from good to bad, from envious to jealous, and from surprised to shocked.

On the other hand, there was a rare silence in the Su family.

Chen Haoyuan had an incident with the quota, and the mother and son had been humiliated in the village. Old Master Su regretted agreeing to this marriage this morning.

Su Jinniang locked herself in the room.

Her family thought that she was troubled by her marriage. Only Su Jinniang knew that she had been humiliated today.

Ever since she was young, she had never lost to Fatty Su.

But today, in front of all the villagers, she lost!

When everyone thought that the young master of the academy was looking for her and she herself thought so, the other party called Fatty Su's name!

At that moment, she became a complete joke!

Su Jinniang did not think about how much Fat Lass Su had experienced in the past.

She was used to being proud. Once Fatty Su, who used to be inferior to her, had risen, she seemed to have lost her balance.

She did not understand why Fatty Su could marry an outstanding man like Wei Ting.

Why did Fatty Su know the young master of the academy?

It seemed that Fatty Su had become lucky overnight…

Su Jinniang attributed everything to Su Xiaoxiao's luck. Little did she know that Su Xiaoxiao had worked hard in private.

The snow fell for three days.

Su Xiaoxiao walked back and forth between the village and Spring Willow Lane every day with difficulty.

It was not that she was not afraid of the cold and exhaustion. Su Xiaoxiao sat on the snow several times and panted heavily.

Aunt Fu cursed at first, but in the end, she fell silent.

She had looked at the little fat girl's face and ears that were red from the cold just for an old woman like her who had half her body buried in the ground.

When Physician Fu finally returned from his consultation, he almost knelt down to Su Xiaoxiao after learning what had happened at home!

Su Xiaoxiao waved her hand. “Alright, alright. It's nothing. I took the consultation fee!”

It was a huge bag of peanuts!

… and a basin of sesame! It was so fragrant!

But no amount of consultation fees could exchange for Miss Su's treatment and care for his mother. He would remember this kindness!

At noon, the snow stopped for two hours. When Su Xiaoxiao was halfway there, it began to fall again.

Su Xiaoxiao's face hurt from the cold, and her back was sweating.

As they approached the village, there was the sound of hurried hooves not far away.

This place was very close to the official road. Occasionally, there would be passersby. Su Xiaoxiao didn't mind and continued walking.

However, her luck today was really not good. She tripped over a big rock covered in snow.

Her chubby body fell heavily into the snow!

What was worse was that the things in the basket were scattered all over the ground. She reached out to pick them up and in a moment of carelessness, two long cuts appeared on the index and middle fingers of her left hand.

Blood flowed!

Her fingers were connected to her heart, and the pain nerves in her body instantly woke up. The pain multiplied, and she gasped!

She couldn't cry, couldn't cry…

She had to bear with it!

A tall figure stepped on the thick snow and walked towards her.

He stood behind her for a moment, bending to pick up her fallen belongings.

“Stupid!”

He said.

Su Xiaoxiao's mind was buzzing with pain. She only realized that someone was approaching when she heard a familiar voice.

She looked up and met those cold, emotionless eyes.

She pouted and cried. “Wei Ting… It hurts… ”

Chapter 76

This body was prone to pain and tears. It was impossible not to be affected.

Su Xiaoxiao cried. “Waah… It hurts… Wei Ting… ”

Wait.

Wei Ting?

Wei Ting!

Su Xiaoxiao froze and stopped crying.

She widened her red eyes and held back her urge to cry.

She did not want to embarrass herself in front of this guy!

Wei Ting said calmly, “If you want to cry, cry. No one will laugh at you.”

“Really?” she asked tearfully, her voice breaking.

Wei Ting leaned over and looked at her at eye level. The corners of his lips curled up as he said mischievously, “Not really.”

Su Xiaoxiao was speechless.

Could she beat this guy to death now?!

Wei Ting had a proud expression.

Su Xiaoxiao shifted her butt in the snow and turned her back on him, throwing him an angry back!

Looking at the little fat peacock who was angry with him, Wei Ting almost laughed out loud.

However, when he saw the blood on the ground, he couldn't smile anymore.

Was this girl injured?

He thought she had fallen in the snow and landed in a mess. She was cold and aggrieved, so she cried in anger.

He leaned on his walking stick and came to Su Xiaoxiao. “Let me see.”

“I'm not showing you!” Su Xiaoxiao covered her wound tightly and turned away from him.

She had just cried. Her voice was hoarse and choked. She was clearly angry, but Wei Ting could hear a trace of grievance.

Wei Ting sighed and placed his walking stick aside. He knelt on one knee in the snow and said to her, “I was wrong, okay?”

Why would a man argue with a little fat girl?

Su Xiaoxiao turned around and asked him coldly, “Then tell me, what did you do wrong?”

Wei Ting was speechless.

Wei Ting thought about it seriously. “My mistake was… to laugh at you?”

Su Xiaoxiao instantly exploded. “So you really laughed at me just now?!”

Wei Ting subconsciously denied it. “I was not laughing at you…”

Su Xiaoxiao exploded again. “Then you lied when you admitted your mistake?!”

Wei Ting was speechless.

What kind of question was this?

Wei Ting took a deep breath and pulled her wrist away. He looked at her injured left index and middle fingers and asked, “Did you bring any medicine?”

“Hmph!” Su Xiaoxiao turned her face away proudly and glanced calmly at the small basket beside her.

Wei Ting glanced at her, grabbed the basket, found her first aid kit, and unzipped it… He didn't know what kind of design this was, but he had seen her open it.

He began to rummage.

Su Xiaoxiao raised her chin. “Don't take the opportunity to look for the token. It's not here!”

Wei Ting did not say anything. He took out a cotton swab and saline. He naturally could not call out the names of these two things, but she had treated his wounds many times.

He had been watching for a long time.

He cleaned her wound and applied ointment.

Su Xiaoxiao was in pain, but she resisted the urge to cry in front of someone.

“You're a strange person,” Wei Ting said.

“How am I strange?” Su Xiaoxiao asked angrily.

“You seem to be more afraid of pain than ordinary people.” Wei Ting hit the nail on the head.

Su Xiaoxiao was really shocked.

Was Wei Ting's observation so keen? He even discovered this?

Wei Ting said this because through his observations during this period of time, Su Daya was not a delicate person. In fact, she could endure more hardships than the soldiers in the military camp.

Su Xiaoxiao corrected him. “I'm not afraid of pain! I can't stand the pain!”

Wei Ting asked, “Is there a difference?”

Su Xiaoxiao said seriously, “Of course! I can't withstand pain because my pain receptors are developed and the pain is infinitely magnified! It's innate! It's not that I'm afraid!”

Alright, there was also a hint of instinctive avoidance and fear, but she would overcome it one day!

That was another word that Wei Ting had never heard of.

At this moment, Wei Ting could not completely understand the difference between the two. At the end of the day, wasn't she still afraid of pain?

A few years later, she would fight on the battlefield with wounds all over her body.

She said, “Wei Ting, it really hurts.”

However, she did not retreat or fall. She used her willpower, which was not inferior to that of a man in the world, and fought ten times or a hundred times harder to step over the mountains of corpses and seas of blood to come to his side.

At that moment, Wei Ting really understood what she said today.

Wei Ting bandaged Su Xiaoxiao's wound.

“It's so ugly!” Su Xiaoxiao said as she looked at the two “big dumplings” in her hand.

Wei Ting said coldly, “It's already good enough that someone bandaged you. Why do you despise it?”

Su Xiaoxiao snorted. “I can bandage it myself!”

Wei Ting chuckled. “Why didn't you say so just now?”

Su Xiaoxiao raised her eyebrows. “I'm very happy to let you work!”

Wei Ting was speechless.

At this moment, two black-clothed guards rode their horses past the two of them. The hooves kicked up snow and almost landed on them.

One of the people who had already walked away thought of something and looked back.

“What's wrong?” his companion asked.

“That person… looks familiar.”

His companion looked back. The snowstorm was very strong, and he could only vaguely see two figures-a little fat village girl and a man in cloth clothes.

“Did you see wrongly? How can there be anyone familiar in such a remote village?”

The guard in black thought for a moment. “I probably saw wrongly.”

That noble should be in the capital. Why would he come to a remote village in Qingzhou to stay with a small village girl? They even seem intimate.

Don't forget, that was the famous Killing God. No woman could get close to him.

The noble ladies in the capital could not do it, nor could the royal princess, let alone a fat girl from the countryside.

His companion advised, “Hurry up and leave. Don't make the young marquis wait!”

“What's wrong?” Su Xiaoxiao looked at Wei Ting, who had already stood up but suddenly squatted down to check her injured hand. “Is it to see how ugly you've made it?”

“Nothing.” Wei Ting grabbed the small basket at the side and stood up with his walking stick. “Let's go back. Can you walk?”

“I injured my hand, not my leg. Besides, if I can't walk, can you carry me?” Su Xiaoxiao glanced at his injured leg.

The meaning was obvious. Could he carry her?

Wei Ting understood her gaze and returned her gaze. “It doesn't seem to be my problem if I can't carry you, right?”

Su Xiaoxiao was speechless!

What an idiot!

She really wanted to beat him to death!

The two of them walked home in the snow.

Su Xiaoxiao asked, “Why did I meet you here? Are you picking me up?”

Wei Ting said, “Yes.”

Su Xiaoxiao sneered. “Lying again! I used to take the village road. It's snowing too heavily today. There's too much snow on the village road. I was afraid that I would walk into a ditch, so I took the longer route!”

Wei Ting said nothing.

Su Xiaoxiao continued, “The location of your accident is nearby. Did you… bury some treasure here?”

Wei Ting said without thinking, “No.”

Su Xiaoxiao narrowed her eyes.

Chapter 77

After placing the things at home, Su Xiaoxiao brought a short shovel and quietly left!

She would know after digging!

Su Xiaoxiao came to the place where Father Su and Su Ergou had ambushed Wei Ting. There were no traces of the previous battle, and the tattered carriage had long been burned by the nearby villagers.

Su Xiaoxiao looked at the snow on the ground and thought. If she was Wei Ting, where would she hide her wealth at a critical moment?

“The north and south ends are official roads. There's a small forest in the east. After crossing a ditch in the west, there's cropland. He can't bury it in the cropland… If someone plows the land casually or digs up a few vegetables, the assets will be exposed.”

“The forest is about 30 steps away. Dahu and the others were in the carriage. He couldn't have walked too far… ”

“The ditch!”

The ditch was blocked by water in winter, so it was the best place to hide things!

Of course, this was Su Xiaoxiao's initial guess.

“It's time to verify my guess!”

Su Xiaoxiao came to the side of the ditch and casually chose a spot. She rolled up her sleeves and started digging.

To be honest, Wei Ting's bandage was a little ugly, but it was very thick. It did not hurt at all to grab the shovel!

Su Xiaoxiao's chubby body squatted on the ground and dug!

As she dug, she would turn around from time to time to see if Wei Ting had caught up to her.

She looked like a sneaky little fat squirrel!

“No.”

She frowned. She continued to dig.

When she dug the third pit, she suddenly felt terrifying killing intent.

“Who's there!”

A man's fierce shout came from behind.

It was not Wei Ting's voice.

She told herself to be steady and not to panic.

Su Xiaoxiao squatted on the ground and calmly turned her head.

Eh?

Weren't these the two men in black who had galloped on the official road just now?

Su Xiaoxiao pretended not to remember and asked, “Who are you?”

The other party was also surprised.

Wasn't this the little fat village girl just now?

Why was she here?

Su Xiaoxiao took the initiative and said seriously, “I'm asking you a question! You don't look familiar. You don't look like people from the nearby village! Who are you?”

The two of them exchanged glances.

The square-faced guard who had noticed Wei Ting just now sized up Su Xiaoxiao and said, “We were passing by. You're a girl. Why are you squatting by the road in the snow?”

“Why do you care!” Su Xiaoxiao said fiercely.

Sometimes, the more confident a person was, the less suspicious they would be.

She got up and dusted the snow off her shovel, looking depressed. “I hate it! You scared away the prey! I'm not digging anymore!”

The square-faced guard asked suspiciously, “What prey is buried in the snow?”

Su Xiaoxiao put her hands on her hips and exploded. “I'm digging for an earthworm! I'm going to use it as bait to catch a pheasant in the forest! Why are you so noisy? You've already lost me a pheasant!”

The two of them were speechless.

Who was the louder one?

His companion whispered, “She looks like a nearby villager. Should we ask her?”

The square-faced man pondered for a moment and rejected, “Forget it, don't alert the enemy.”

Su Xiaoxiao took the shovel and left.

The two of them had already dispelled their doubts about her, but at this moment, something unexpected happened.

Su Xiaoxiao's purse leaked, and a shiny black token fell into the snow.

The scene fell silent!

Su Xiaoxiao bent down and picked up the token before stuffing it into her arms!

The two guards missed!

A murderous glint instantly appeared in their eyes!

The square-faced man said coldly, “Hand over that thing just now!”

Su Xiaoxiao pretended to be confused. “What is it? I don't understand!”

The square-faced man pulled out a sword from his waist and threatened, “Girl! Don't be ungrateful! Hand it over, or I'll kill you!”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Burning, killing, and plundering in broad daylight. Do you have any respect for the law? I'm warning you, if I shout, the entire village can hear me!”

The square-faced man tapped her acupoint.

Su Xiaoxiao was speechless!

The square-faced man said to his companion, “You do it.”

His companion said, “Why me?”

The two of them had just seen the little village girl stuff the thing into her arms. They were men, so it was not convenient for them to touch a woman's chest.

“What happened?”

At this moment, a young man in a black cloak with a silver lining walked over with a cold expression.

Su Xiaoxiao took a look.

Jing Yi?

Jing Yi also saw Su Xiaoxiao and frowned.

The two black-clothed guards bowed respectfully to him. “Young Marquis!”

Su Xiaoxiao's almond-shaped eyes widened.

The square-faced man reported, “Young Marquis, there's a suspicious… ”

Before she could finish, Jing Yi raised his hand and undid Su Xiaoxiao's acupoints.

Su Xiaoxiao finally could speak and move. She said in disbelief, “Jing Yi, are you a marquis?”

This time, it was the two guards who were dumbfounded.

Did the little village girl just call their young master by his name?!

Did the little master know her?!

Jing Yi frowned. Although he was unwilling to expose his identity, his subordinate had already done so. It was not good for him to lie and say that he was not.

“What's going on?” he asked Su Xiaoxiao.

Su Xiaoxiao hurriedly complained, “The two of them robbed me!”

“No!”

“It was him!”

The square-faced man and his companion spoke at the same time.

The square-faced man looked at his companion with a dark expression. Are you so anxious to betray me?!

His companion coughed lightly. “I didn't do it.”

The square-faced man came to Jing Yi's side and whispered a few words.

Su Xiaoxiao couldn't hear what he said, but she could guess that he was mentioning the token to Jing Yi.

Jing Yi raised his hand.

The square-faced man took three steps back.

Jing Yi looked at Su Xiaoxiao. “Miss Su, please take out what you just kept.”

Su Xiaoxiao reached out and took out a wife cake wrapped in oil paper. “Here, take it!”

The square-faced man said, “It was clearly not this!”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “This is all I have!”

The square-faced man frowned. “Nonsense!”

Su Xiaoxiao straightened her back. “If you don't believe me, come and search!”

Jing Yi had a complicated expression. “Miss Su, sorry.”

They were really searching!

After all, she was Young Master Xiang's savior and had once helped with Jing Yi's arm. However, all of this was nothing compared to a token.

What was that token?

“Jing Yi, I'm a woman!” Su Xiaoxiao said solemnly.

“Is Hong Luan here?” Jing Yi asked the two of them.

“Yes.” The square-faced man placed his index finger and thumb into his mouth and whistled at the sky.

Not long after, a woman in red walked over in the snow and leaped into the air. She knelt on one knee in front of Jing Yi and bowed. “Hong Luan greets the Young Marquis!”

Su Xiaoxiao's first reaction was that she was so cool.

Her next thought was that it was over. There was no way to hide from a body search.

If she could not hide the token, Wei Ting… would most likely be exposed!

“Miss Su, this way please!” Hong Luan brought Su Xiaoxiao into the small forest in the east.

Chapter 78

Fifteen minutes later, Hong Luan and Su Xiaoxiao came out of the forest one after another.

Hong Luan presented the things she had found to Jing Yi with both hands. “Please take a look, Young Marquis.”

Jing Yi opened the handkerchief and took a look. “Pancake?”

“Yes,” Hong Luan said. “I only found this.”

Jing Yi looked coldly at the two black-clothed guards at the side.

The two of them frowned!

The square-faced man said, “Young Marquis, I really saw it! It's indeed what we've been looking for!”

“What about you?” Jing Yi asked another person.

Another person recalled carefully and said, “It looks like it to me.”

Hong Luan was unhappy. “What do you mean? Are you suspecting that I missed it, or are you suspecting that I'm protecting her?”

Hong Luan was a hidden guard and was good at qinggong and concealment. Her vigilance and meticulousness were not something ordinary experts could compare to.

She did not care what these two fellows had seen. In short, she had searched inside and out. There was indeed nothing suspicious on that little village girl.

Jing Yi broke open the pastry.

It was just a pancake. There was nothing hidden.

The square-faced man was very puzzled. “I did see her put it in her pocket…”

Hong Luan said indifferently, “Perhaps you saw wrongly. It's just a biscuit.”

The square-faced man opened his mouth. “I… ”

Hong Luan snorted. “If you don't believe me, go search again!”

Hong Luan was not speaking up for Su Xiaoxiao. She firmly believed that her search methods would not miss any blind spots.

Jing Yi also believed in Hong Luan's ability. If the item was really on Miss Su, it was impossible for Hong Luan not to find it. As for protecting Miss Su, it was even more impossible.

Jing Yi waited for Su Xiaoxiao to come out after putting on her clothes and personally apologized to her.

Su Xiaoxiao said angrily, “To think that I thought we were friends, but you don't trust me at all. Thinking about it, it's not strange. You're the Young Marquis, and I'm just a small village girl. You're out of my league! Goodbye!”

With that, Su Xiaoxiao left without looking back.

Jing Yi wanted to say something but hesitated. He looked at the broken pancake in his hand and pinched the brocade bag in his left hand that he had not given away in time. His expression darkened.

—

Su Xiaoxiao kept walking back. After confirming that she was far away from Jing Yi and the others' line of sight, her tense body finally relaxed.

She let out a long breath.

It was too dangerous. Jing Yi looked like a high school student in her previous life. She didn't expect him to be so calm and meticulous.

She was not really angry with Jing Yi, but if she did not appear so angry, she would appear very suspicious.

She thought that she would definitely be exposed this time, but at the critical moment, the pharmacy appeared.

Although it was only for an instant, it was enough for her to put the token in.

In Hong Luan's opinion, she only clutched her chest and felt dizzy for a moment.

Hong Luan asked her what was wrong.

She said to Hong Luan, “I didn't eat breakfast and went to town for a consultation. I was so hungry that I almost fainted! It wasn't easy for me to bring a pancake, but you treated it as stolen goods!”

With that, she successfully deceived the world.

….

She had got off unscathed and the pharmacy had contributed.

Speaking of which, she had entered the pharmacy a total of four times.

The first time was to treat Wei Ting's injuries. The second time was to treat Young Master Xiang's lung disease. She also gave Father Su a bottle of bone-strengthening pills. The third time was to save Aunt Fu.

The fourth time was just now.

Could it be that… the trigger condition of the pharmacy was an emergency? What was the criteria to be met?

Initially, she thought that the pharmacy might only appear when there was an medical emergency situation, but how could she explain what happened today?

Too many doubts flashed across her mind. Su Xiaoxiao felt that she had to figure it out.

Not only because it was supernatural, but also because it was her only remaining connection to that world.

Perhaps one day, she could return to that world through it.

Assuming her body wasn't cremated…

After arriving home, Su Xiaoxiao plunged into her room and began to study how to enter the pharmacy.

“The first two times, I was confused, like Zhu Bajie eating a ginseng fruit. I came out with the medicine without realizing it. I had a strong desire to enter that time, but I also tried a few times-”

“What are you muttering about?”

Wei Ting's voice suddenly sounded at the door.

Su Xiaoxiao trembled and turned to him with a dark expression. “Why are you eavesdropping on me?”

Wei Ting knocked on the door indifferently. “The door is open.”

Su Xiaoxiao was speechless.

Su Xiaoxiao secretly stuffed the small shovel under the bed and said, “I didn't dig up your treasure!”

Wei Ting looked at her deeply and said coldly, “Ergou called you.”

“Sister! Sister!”

Su Ergou called him Sister at the entrance of the village. The entire village heard him. It was obvious how distracted Su Xiaoxiao was just now.

Wei Ting naturally did not know what had happened on the official road. He looked at the shovel that was exposed and said mockingly, “Looks like you're very disappointed that you didn't dig it up.”

Su Xiaoxiao glared at him. “One day, I'll dig it up!”

Su Xiaoxiao went to the village entrance and found the anxious Su Ergou. “What's wrong?”

Su Ergou said anxiously, “Dahu, Erhu, and Xiaohu are missing!”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Why didn't you see them? Tell me properly.”

Su Ergou scratched his ears and cheeks. “It's… it was time for dinner. I asked them to go back for dinner. Coincidentally, Zhu Zi came over to fetch water. We chatted for a while, but when we turned around, they were gone!”

Su Xiaoxiao sighed. “Got it. I'll go find them. You can go back first.”

The little fellows must not want to be caught by Su Ergou and went into hiding again.

Su Xiaoxiao was right. The three little ones were indeed hiding and playing hide-and-seek with their uncle. They would only returned with their uncle after he found them.

The safety range of the three of them had gradually expanded from their house and Liu Shan's house next door to an entire row of villages.

In other words, they were getting bolder.

The three of them hid in a small woodpile behind the Su family's kitchen.

These were wood that were cut before the snow. They were intended for repairing the house, but because the weather was bad, they could only be put aside for now.

The older children could not get in. The three of them were young and could get in one at a time.

The three of them squatted in the firewood pile for a while, but Uncle Ergou did not come. They ran out again.

Coincidentally, Su Jinniang pushed the door open to pour water away.

She saw the three little ones next to the firewood pile at a glance.

The three of them were wearing thick cotton-padded jackets with blue hoods over them.

Fatty Su had worn these when she was young and Father Su had taken them out to put on the three little ones.

This way, it didn't matter if they were dirty after playing. They just had to change their clothes every day.

The three of them were cute. Their eyes were big and their eyelashes were long. There was no child in the village who was more beautiful than them.

Nor in town.

At least, Su Jinniang had never seen any.

Su Jinniang knew that they were Wei Ting's children.

She poured away the water, put down the wooden basin, and came to the three of them. She bent down and gently patted the snow on their clothes.

The three of them looked at her with wide black eyes.

Su Jinniang smiled gently and said, “Aren't you afraid of freezing on such a cold day? Do you want to come in and warm yourself by the fire?”

Chapter 79

The three little ones did not want to warm themselves by the fire. They only wanted to hide.

This was the first time Su Jinniang had observed the three children up close. Just like their father, the closer they were, the better they looked.

It was just that they were quite naughty and always made the children in the village cry.

It must be that Fatty Su didn't know how to raise them. If she were their mother-

She would teach them well.

“What are your names?” Su Jinniang asked softly.

The three of them said nothing.

It was not that Su Jinniang really did not know their names. She just wanted to tease them to speak. Wasn't this the way to start an interaction between adults and children?

Seeing that they were silent, Su Jinniang was not discouraged. Instead, she continued to ask gently, “Which of you is Dahu, which is Erhu, and which is Xiaohu?”

The three of them remained silent.

Su Jinniang thought for a moment before turning around and entering the house. She secretly took a piece of candy from home, broke it into three small pieces, walked out, and handed it to them.

The Su family's conditions in the village were not bad, but it was one thing for their family to eat such expensive things. It was rare for them to casually give them to the children in the village.

“Here,” she said, smiling.

She was good-looking and spoke gently. The children in the village liked her very much.

In addition, this was candy. There was no child who did not like candy.

She handed it forward again and said, “This is sweet. It's delicious.”

Of course, the three little ones knew about candy. Niudan had used this to tempt them.

The three of them didn't take it.

Su Jinniang asked, “What's wrong? Don't you like it? Or is your father… not letting you eat it?”

“Dahu! Erhu! Xiaohu!”

Su Xiaoxiao's cry came from ahead.

The three little ones' eyes lit up. They decisively ran out of the alley.

Su Jinniang followed a few steps and saw the three of them pounce into Fatty Su's arms like swallows. Their three little heads rubbed against Fatty Su.

“Where did you go to play? You're sweating profusely,” Fatty Su said as she patted Dahu's head.

Dahu raised his hand and pointed. “Over there, hide!”

“Erhu wants it too.” Erhu stretched his little head over.

“Xiaohu! Xiaohu!” It was very difficult for Xiao Hu to squeeze in between his two brothers!

Su Xiaoxiao didn't know whether to laugh or cry. She touched everyone's heads.

Dahu turned and pointed at the small of his back. “And here,” he said in a childish voice.

Su Xiaoxiao often touched their backs to see if they were sweating.

Su Xiaoxiao touched this and that in amusement.

The three children raised their chins proudly!

Su Xiaoxiao said, “You're drenched in sweat. Hurry up and go back to change your clothes for dinner.”

The three of them nodded and skipped away with Su Xiaoxiao.

The three of them were like different people in front of Su Jinniang and the other villagers.

“Are you eating anything you shouldn't have?” Su Xiaoxiao asked.

“No.” The three little ones shook their heads.

Su Jinniang watched them leave and clenched the candy in her hand.

Fatty Su was clearly targeting her and not allowing her to build a good relationship with Wei Ting's three children.

Su Jinniang had really misunderstood Su Xiaoxiao. Su Xiaoxiao didn't know that Su Jinniang had given the three little fellows candy. The reason she asked this was because the three little ones had eaten wild fruit at the back of the mountain with the older children in the village a few days ago.

The children in the village had eaten since they were young and were used to it. They did not feel any discomfort.

However, the three little fellows had a stomachache all night.

Ever since then, Su Xiaoxiao stopped letting them eat from elsewhere.

“Mother.”

The three little ones only noticed Su Xiaoxiao's wrapped fingers.

Su Xiaoxiao nodded and said without changing her expression, “It's for fun.”

The three little ones blinked cutely.

Fifteen minutes later, each child had two dumplings wrapped in their hands.

The three of them decisively went next door to look for Niudan to show off the fingers that their mother had wrapped for them!

Unfortunately, Niudan was not in the mood to fight with them today. The family was arguing again about the separation of his uncle and aunt. His grandfather, Liu Shan, was furious, and his grandmother had been scolding him all morning.

“I raised you up with great effort! In the end, this is how you repay me! I know that I'm not your biological mother! I don't expect you to be filial to me! But you can't curse me to death!”

“You two are killing me! Are you trying to curse me and your father to death?”

As Big Wu spoke, she started crying. “Has it been easy for me to be someone's stepmother all these years? How have I let you down?”

How could it be right?

Did Big Wu really not remember how she had treated Liu Ping badly?

Cutting pig grass at the age of five, working in the fields at the age of six, sleeping in the cowshed in the middle of winter… When he was sick, she never invited a doctor. If not for Liu Ping's luck, he would have died many times!

When Liu Ping went to town to do manual labor, he did not rest during the winter and summer. The hard-earned money fell into the hands of Big Wu.

So where did Big Wu get the cheek to say that she was right about Liu Ping?

“Did you instigate it?”

Seeing that Liu Ping was unwilling to let go, Big Wu immediately targeted Little Wu.

She walked over and gave Little Wu a big slap!

A crisp slap sounded in the central room.

The person who was slapped was not Little Wu, but Liu Ping, who rushed over to block her.

Liu Ping took the blow forcefully, and his face immediately swelled up.

Looking at the palm print on Liu Ping's face, Big Wu was stunned.

Liu Shan, who was sitting in the chair, frowned fiercely.

“Husband, I…” Big Wu turned to look at Liu Shan and then at the stubborn Liu Ping. She wanted to say that she did not want to hit Liu Ping, but the atmosphere in the house was suddenly so oppressive that she could not speak.

No matter what, Liu Ping was the eldest son in the family. As his stepmother, she could think of ways to squeeze him, but she could not hit him.

“Kneel down, the two of you!” Liu Shan said to his son and daughter-in-law.

Liu Ping and Little Wu knelt down.

Liu Shan said seriously, “I'll ask you one last time. Are you really going to split up?”

“Yes!” Liu Ping said.

“Brother! Sister-in-law! Don't be rash!”

Madam He put down the spatula and came over from the kitchen. She said to Liu Ping and Little Wu, “It's the new year. Why are you splitting up? Hurry up and apologize to Dad and Mom! Our family is harmonious. Stop fooling around! I know that Liu An was injured a while ago and can't work in the fields. He's a burden to you! Sister-in-law will apologize to you here! It won't happen again!”

Madam He's words were evasive.

How could the eldest branch only feel aggrieved in these few months? But she couldn't say that the entire family had been squeezing the eldest branch, right?

Madam He did not want to split up. Although Liu Ping's salary would not fall into her hands, Big Wu had always been biased towards the second branch and had spent a lot of money on Liu An and Niudan.

And because of her husband and son, she could more or less get some benefits.

In addition, if Sister-in-law left, who would do so much work at home?

She did not want to be exhausted!

Chapter 80

The adults were arguing too fiercely, and Niudan was so frightened in the kitchen that he cried.

The three children were here to show off their fingers. Seeing Niudan cry like this, they were a little embarrassed to show off.

“Finger,” Dahu said.

Just to show off.

“Mother wrapped it,” Erhu said.

If his brother showed off, he would show off too.

“You don't have it,” Xiaohu added.

Niudan was speechless. He couldn't just stop crying, right?

The three of them ran back to their kitchen where Su Xiaoxiao was cooking cured meat.

“Mother, I want,” Dahu said.

Su Xiaoxiao thought that the three of them were greedy for the cured meat in the pot and said softly, “It's not cooked yet. Wait a moment.”

“Not meat.” Dahu shook his head and raised his dumpling finger to point at the cloth on it. “I want this.”

“Gauze?” Su Xiaoxiao asked.

“Yes!” The three of them nodded.

Children were at the age of playfulness and exploration. It was normal for them to mess around. Su Xiaoxiao didn't refuse and returned to the east room to cut three clean pieces of gauze for them.

The three of them happily played with it.

Su Xiaoxiao smiled and continued to cook.

“Eh? Where are the children?”

Father Su walked in with the dry firewood. He had clearly heard the voices of the little fellows.

“What happened to your hand?”

He saw Su Xiaoxiao's wrapped index finger.

“Nothing. I accidentally scratched it,” Su Xiaoxiao said. “They went to look for Niudan.”

“Are you really fine?” He knew his fat daughter very well. A small wound could last for a long time.

“It's fine. Wei Ting wrapped it.” It looked so serious.

“Son-in-law is so considerate,” Father Su said.

Su Xiaoxiao spoke, “Hello, did you miss the point?”

“I'll go see the children.” Father Su went to the back door of the Liu family and took a look. He saw the three little fellows wrapping something around Niudan's hand. Niu Dan was twitching as if he had just cried.

Father Su automatically imagined a small bullying scene and nodded in satisfaction. The three little fellows did not suffer a loss, so he was relieved and went home to continue chopping firewood.

The Liu family's argument intensified. When Liu Shan threw a chair, Niudan cried again.

The three little ones walked over and slammed the front door of the kitchen shut!

Niudan was stunned. … That worked?

This was the bad thing about living in the countryside. Whenever there was any commotion, more than half of the village would rush over to watch the commotion.

Knowing that they were breaking up the family, everyone advised Liu Ping to stop fooling around.

Although they also knew that the eldest branch was not having a good time in the Liu family, it was still the same thing. As long as their parents were around, they would not split up.

As long as they broke up, it would be an extremely ugly scene.

Liu Shan felt that he could not afford to lose face. “If you want to split up, you have to die!”

“Aiya, Brother Ping, listen to Auntie's advice. Which of the families that broke up has a good ending? If you don't think for yourself, think for the two children.”

“That's right. Life won't be easy after you split up.”

“A pot of rice can't feed two families. What grudge can't be resolved? Must you make it to the point of splitting up? Yes, it's a little hard on your eldest branch, but you're the eldest son. Which eldest son doesn't live like this?”

The villagers stood at the moral high ground and criticized the unorthodox couple.

“Auntie Zhou is right. It's naturally harder for the eldest son to take charge than the second son!”

Su Xiaoxiao strode in.

Everyone looked at her strangely, not understanding why she was there.

Su Xiaoxiao placed her hands behind her back and said leisurely, “In my opinion, Liu Ping really doesn't know what's good for him. Isn't it just doing more hard work and working for others outside? Why is he aggrieved? And Little Wu, she's the head of the family. She's the one who washes, cooks, cleans, and chops firewood. As the eldest daughter-in-law, this is what she should do!”

Everyone was wondering why her words sounded strange. However, Fatty Su's words successfully reminded everyone, or rather, she stated what everyone had evaded.

Liu Ping worked hard in town. In order to get more work, he rarely returned home. He had worked so hard, but how did the Liu family treat his wife and children?

Little Wu did the work of the entire family alone. When the farm was busy, she had to farm. In comparison, Madam He and Big Wu were freer.

Their children were dressed in rags and were thin. They were far inferior to Niudan of the second branch.

Big Wu told everyone how much her heart ached for Liu Ping. She claimed to not feel so strongly for her own son.

Chapter 81

Yes, she must have used her mouth to feel sorry for him.

It was all talk and no action. This was Big Wu!

In everyone's hearts, it was not that they could not differentiate between right and wrong. However, it was similar to the principle that it was better to destroy a temple than a marriage. If they persuaded others to split up, they would be criticized.

They were not so righteous!

Liu Shan said in a low voice, “Fatty Su, this is our Liu family's business. It's not your place to criticize!”

No matter what, Liu Shan was still a grandfather. He was not so timid when facing a little bully from the Su family, especially in front of the entire village. He had to maintain some semblance of dignity.

Su Xiaoxiao didn't care if he was afraid or not. She wasn't here to scare him with her weight.

She said sarcastically, “Grandpa Liu, it's fine to break up with such an unfilial son!”

Liu Shan could tell that this girl was here to cause trouble!

It had been a while since the Su family had found someone to extort money. He thought that they had turned over a new leaf, but it turned out that they were still bastards!

Liu Shan said coldly, “Liu Ping is my son. Unless I die, he can forget about being separated from this family!”

Su Xiaoxiao heaved a sigh of relief. “Aiya, I'm relieved to hear that!”

The villagers were puzzled. What did Fatty Su mean?

Su Xiaoxiao smiled. “You just said that Liu Ping is your biological son. Unless you die, he can forget about splitting up! In that case, repay the debt Liu Ping owes!”

The villagers stared. What kind of development was this?

Liu Shan frowned.

Liu Ping was also confused.

Little Wu glanced at Su Xiaoxiao. She knew Fatty Su best. Although she didn't know what Fatty Su wanted to do, she believed her.

“Fatty Su, are you trying to extort money again?” It was Madam He from the second branch.

Su Xiaoxiao took out an IOU from her wide sleeve and dusted it gently, showing it to the Liu family and the villagers.

“This is the IOU that Liu Ping personally signed. His fingerprint is on it! He owes me a total of 30 taels! The interest is 18 taels, a total of 48 taels! Hurry up and return the money!”

Liu Ping said, “Since when… ”

Little Wu pinched Liu Ping!

Liu Ping paused and Little Wu hurriedly said, “Didn't we agree to give it to you in a few days?”

Liu Ping looked at Little Wu as if he had seen a ghost.

Little Wu's words confirmed Fatty Su's “extortion”. No, with an IOU, it could not be called extortion!

Su Xiaoxiao secretly praised Little Wu for not disappointing her.

Su Xiaoxiao said fiercely, “But you also agreed to give me some interest in advance! Did you give it to me?”

Little Wu stammered, “I… we really can't…”

Su Xiaoxiao pointed at Liu Shan. “If you two can't take it out, ask your father for it!”

Big Wu's expression changed!

She did not want to repay the first branch's debt!

“What's going on!” Liu Shan was furious.

“So the two of you haven't told your family yet. Alright, I'll tell them.”

Su Xiaoxiao smiled unhurriedly.

“A while ago, Liu Ping was carrying a sack for someone in town and accidentally broke a noble scholar's jade pendant. That jade pendant was originally worth 50 taels of silver. Coincidentally, I was doing business nearby, and Young Master Shen of the Wutong Academy was also there. Young Master Shen appeared, and on account of him, they only asked Liu Ping to compensate 30 taels of silver! I was the one who paid the money first. It's 60% interest, written clearly in black and white! Young Master Shen is the witness. If you don't believe me, you can go to the Wutong Academy to verify it with him!”

Who wouldn't believe her if she mentioned Young Master Shen of the academy?

They had seen Young Master Shen send Fatty Su a New Year gift with their own eyes!

Fatty Su was indeed on good terms with Young Master Shen!

As for why Fat Lass Su was so kind-

Pfft!

It was an interest of 60%. Was she being kind?

She was trying to extort the Liu family to death!

Fatty Su was still that little bully!

Su Xiaoxiao hooked her chubby hand. “How is it? Return the money!”

Liu Shan was so angry that his blood surged. He suppressed his anger and looked at Liu Ping, who was kneeling on the ground. “Is what she said true?”

Su Xiaoxiao raised her eyebrows and said, “If you don't believe me, you can verify it with Shen Chuan! Liu Ping's handprint is on it, and so is Shen Chuan's!”

Okay, the fingerprints actually belonged to Wei Ting and Su Ergou.

Liu Shan called his youngest son over. “Invite the village head over.”

Su Xiaoxiao didn't panic at all.

After the village head came over, he carefully checked the IOU. “According to what's written on it, he does owe 30 taels of silver, 60% interest, and 1,800 copper coins a day. He owed it 10 days ago. Today, he should have accumulated payment of 18 taels of silver.”

This matched Fatty Su's words.

Fatty Su asked, “Chief, Liu Ping is from the Liu family. The Liu family should help him repay the debt he owes, right?”

The village head frowned and thought for a moment. “Logically speaking, that's the case.”

Big Wu's eyes turned black as she staggered and fell to the ground. She slapped her thigh and cried, “What sin did he commit?”

48 taels!

They wouldn't be able to repay him even if they sold her!

If she had known earlier, she would have agreed to split up!

Liu Ping only earned about a hundred copper coins a month, less than half a tael of silver at most, and the daily payment was nearly two taels. How long would it take?

In other words, the Liu family could not afford it even if they went bankrupt!

Liu Shan's expression was also that of a complete defeat. He was so angry that his entire body was trembling. He asked Liu Ping, “Why didn't you tell your family about such an important matter!”

Liu Ping: “I…”

Su Xiaoxiao chuckled. “Fortunately, I discovered it in time. If I were a step later, you would have split from the main family and I wouldn't have been able to get the Liu family to return the debt! With your own strength, hmph, I'm afraid you'll have to pay it back in your next life! Grandpa Liu, I remember that you have some savings. It's time to take it out!”

When the villagers heard this, they were enlightened.

Could it be that Brother Ping didn't want to drag his family down?

He wanted to shoulder the debt himself. It was better than his entire family being dragged down by him!

If that were the case, they would have misunderstood the two of them!

How was Brother Ping unfilial? He was clearly filial!

Chapter 82

“Fatty Su, in your dreams!”

The person who spoke was Big Wu. She was the first to disagree if she wanted to touch their savings!

Su Xiaoxiao smiled faintly. “If you don't want to hand over the savings, then use something valuable as payment.”

Something valuable?

Field? Land?

A farmer in the countryside would be living like rootless duckweed without farmland. Who would dare to give up these two things?

At this moment, the youngest daughter of the eldest branch came over crying.

She had just woken up when Big Meizi came out of the house.

“Mother.” She spread her small arms for her mother.

Little Wu hugged her daughter tightly.

Big Meizi came out to carry her sister, but her sister did not leave with her.

Big Wu's eyes flashed as she said to Su Xiaoxiao, “We'll sell these two girls to you!”

Everyone was dumbfounded. This old fellow was even selling her granddaughter for money!

Liu Ping was shocked. “Mother!”

Su Xiaoxiao said with disdain, “What's the value of two girls? Why don't you use your grandson to repay your debt? Niudan is fair and chubby. I'll give take him for five taels as a neighbor!”

“You can't sell my son!” Madam He screamed without thinking.

Niudan was not only the treasure of the second branch, but also the apple of Liu Shan and Big Wu's eyes. Not to mention that Madam He did not agree, the two elders would not bear to part with him.

However, they had to use their savings, fields or Niudan to repay the debt.

To be precise, that would barely be enough to offset the interest. Even if they sold their entire family, they would not be able to gather 48 taels.

Madam He cried, “Dad! Mom! Let Big Brother split from the family! We don't owe her! Why should we repay his debt!”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Whoa, you make it sound like they didn't earn money for the family or help you work.”

These words choked Madam He to death.

Liu Ping handed over all his salary to Big Wu. When Little Wu's biological mother was sick, she was not even allowed to take an egg back to her parents.

Why couldn't the entire family pay the debt that Liu Ping owed?

Auntie Liu gossiped and said, “Brother Ping, don't split up. Let your family help pay it back!”

Su Xiaoxiao said calmly, “Have you thought about it? Are you going to pay them back together or are you going to split up?”

“Split up!” Madam He said. “Dad! Mom! If this family isn't divided, Liu An and I won't be able to live!”

Big Wu's mouth moved.

She wanted to split up too.

She looked at the head of the family.

Liu Shan was in a difficult position. He was the one who had said that he would not agree to the separation, but Liu Ping owed so much. If he did not split the family, he had to fork out money for Liu Ping.

He did not want to take out the money, nor could he afford it.

Auntie Liu continued, “Uncle Liu, if there's really no other way, split the family.”

There were two surnames in the village-Liu and Wu. These two surnames had the most people, but they were not related by blood.

Old Li glanced at Su Xiaoxiao and sighed. He said to Liu Shan, “Old Liu, you should split up. It's difficult for you too.”

The development of the matter was really beyond the villagers' expectations.

Liu Ping had suggested splitting up because he did not want to implicate his family. Because of this filial piety, no one dared to drown him!

On the other hand, the Liu family was a little inhumane. After all, Liu Ping was the eldest son in the family. Although it was wrong for him to owe money, he did not do it on purpose. Besides, he had given the family all the money he had earned over the years.

Shouldn't his family take some out to repay his debt?

Liu Shan had a complicated expression. “Village Head…”

“Make your own decision.” As the village head spoke, he looked at Su Xiaoxiao. “Daya, do me a favor. No matter who repays the debt, give them a few more days.”

Su Xiaoxiao said slowly, “The limit can be extended, but the interest can't be reduced. It's 1,280 coins a day!”

Big Wu's temples throbbed. “Split… split!”

With so much debt, she would die!

Liu Shan looked at the second branch. “Do you guys agree to split up too?”

Madam He glanced at her man and gritted her teeth. “Split up!”

“Liu An?” Liu Shan asked his youngest son.

Liu An braced himself and said, “Since Big Brother and Sister-in-law insist on splitting, I have nothing to say.”

Liu Shan sighed. “Then please be a witness and split the family.”

He said to Liu Ping and Little Wu, “Your mother and I won't touch our funeral savings. The rest will be divided into two portions. Your eldest and second branches will each take half.”

This method could be considered to have taken good care of the eldest branch. It was the rule that the funeral savings would not be touched, but the rest of the money was divided equally among the two elders.

Chapter 83

With the division, Liu Shan would be giving up his share with Big Wu.

In the past, Big Wu would not have agreed, but she was in a hurry to get rid of the debt of 48 taels of silver and did not say a word.

Liu Shan continued, “Our family has a total of five acres of land. The two acres of land in the east are yours.”

Liu An opened his mouth. Those were the most fertile pieces of land.

Madam He glared at him and told him not to speak. Otherwise, if they ruined the separation, who would pay the debt?

Liu Shan continued, “I've given you the best land, so we won't split the house. If you really don't have a place to stay, clean up the ancestral house beside the fish pond and live there.”

This was equivalent to giving the ancestral house to the eldest branch.

Liu Shan said, “What's there to be dissatisfied about? Take advantage of the fact that the village head and the villagers are here and quickly raise it. It won't be useful to raise it after the division.”

“No, thank you, Dad.” Liu Ping and Little Wu kowtowed to Liu Shan and Big Wu.

They didn't expect to get so much. They thought they would be kicked out and wouldn't be able to take a single copper and were prepared for the worst.

Little Wu understood that if it weren't for Fat Lass Su today, they really wouldn't even get half a copper coin.

The next step was to write the documents and move. Su Xiaoxiao was a bully, so she naturally couldn't stay and help Little Wu. That would ruin her persona.

However, just as she turned to leave, she was stopped by the village head.

“Da Ya, I remember that your husband can write. Can you ask him to help us write the document?”

The separation of the family was not just a few empty words. The transfer of land and house had to be accounted to the government office. Moreover, the details of how to split the family had to be written down in black and white to prevent future entanglements.

“Alright,” Su Xiaoxiao agreed generously. “Our Su family will do Village Head this honor!”

The village head was relieved!

Su Xiaoxiao went to Wei Ting to tell him about the successful separation of the Liu family's first branch, mainly to show off her wisdom.

She sat opposite Wei Ting and rested her elbows on the table. She rested her chin on her hands and said proudly, “How is it? Am I powerful? I told you this method would work!”

She was referring to the use of fake IOUs to facilitate the separation.

Wei Ting chuckled and said, “You can only scare these countryside people. If you really take it to the government office to compare your handprints, you will expose yourself.”

Su Xiaoxiao snorted. “I'm betting that they won't go to the government office!”

What a joke. She had even brought Shen Chuan up. Which villager would think that she was lying?

The villagers did not have a strong legal sense. If they really wanted to verify it, they would have to go to Shen Chuan to verify it. Shen Chuan would definitely not expose her!

Wei Ting took a pen and paper and began to write down the details of the separation.

He had never met such a woman. She didn't care about her reputation at all. It seemed fine no matter how others scolded her. If they called her a bully, she would be a little bully.

She was still so… smug.

Was she stupid?

No, what happened today was definitely not a petty trick. She had read people's hearts thoroughly. It was not an exaggeration to call her resourceful.

Wasn't she stupid? She had the foolishness of a moth flying to the fire for the people beside her.

“Are you done? I'll take it away if you're done!” Su Xiaoxiao grabbed the document on the table and swung her head before leaving valiantly!

Not long after, the three children came to look for their father.

They wanted their father to write on their fingers.

Wei Ting looked at their wrapped fingers and his lips twitched.

Why did they have to learn everything that girl did?

Of course, he knew that the three brats were not injured. If they were injured, she would tell him.

“Write what?” he asked.

“We don't know,” Xiaohu said.

Wei Ting thought for a moment and wrote their names on the gauze-Dahu, Erhu, and Xiaohu.

The three of them shook their heads and left valiantly!

Wei Ting was speechless.

—

The people from the government office had gone back for the new year. The procedures would be done after the new year, but the document of the separation was clearly written. Under the witness of the village head, Liu Shan and Liu Ping signed their fingerprints.

This matter was considered settled.

After the commotion was over, the villagers dispersed.

Liu Ping and Little Wu were not infamous, but the Liu family suffered a lot of criticism. Liu Ping and Little Wu were the only ones who were not criticized for splitting up.

Big Wu and Madam He stared at Little Wu, afraid that she would take something else from home.

Little Wu couldn't leave to thank Fatty Su, but she whispered to Liu Ping about Fatty Su's help during this period.

Liu Ping was shocked. He had guessed what had happened today, but he did not expect that this was not the first time Fatty Su had helped them.

This was too… unbelievable.

That was Fatty Su!

A terrifying female bully!

Little Wu said, “Fatty is our benefactor. We must repay her well in the future.”

Liu Ping patted his chest. “Wife, don't worry! I'll repay her no matter what!”

At this moment, Su Xiaoxiao did not know that Liu Ping, who looked ordinary, would really repay her kindness in the future.

Su Xiaoxiao was cutting cured meat in the kitchen. The three little ones surrounded the stove, each holding a piece of shiny cured meat and eating it in small bites.

She hummed a cheerful tune. The three little ones matched the rhythm and ate while swaying their heads left and right.

This scene was a little heartwarming.

Wei Ting had never seen the three brats so happy. They had lived in deep trouble since they were born. It was only after coming to the Su family that they seemed to have found peace.

Su Xiaoxiao looked up and met Wei Ting's gaze.

She was about to tease Wei Ting when he spoke first. “It's just helping someone split up. Why are you so happy?”

Su Xiaoxiao snorted and continued to cut vegetables. “What do you know? I'm helping my employees solve their worries!”

She would protect her employees!

Who dared to bully them? No way!

After a pause, Su Xiaoxiao narrowed her eyes and said, “Why are you in the kitchen? You've been hanging around me a little too often recently. Wei Ting, don't tell me you really like me?”

Chapter 84

Wei Ting sneered. “Heh, dream on.”

Su Xiaoxiao cut the vegetables and raised her eyebrows. “I'm quite beautiful, right, Dahu, Erhu, Xiaohu?”

The three little ones nodded.

Their mother was the most beautiful!

They would not accept any rebuttal!

“Little brats…” Wei Ting felt that if this continued, they would probably not remember whose sons they were.

Su Xiaoxiao glanced at the stove and said to Wei Ting, “You came at the right time. Add some firewood.”

Wei Ting walked in with his walking stick and sat on the small stool. He placed the thick linen on his right leg, grabbed a dried branch rack, and pressed both ends down.

The dry branch broke.

Country bumpkins broke dead branches like this, but if the people in the capital saw this, their jaws would probably drop.

He was the Killing God who became famous when he was young; he had broken the spines of enemies, strangled their throats, stepped on thousands of bones, waded through mountains of corpses and seas of blood, and his hands were stained with countless thick blood.

At this moment, he was willing to sit in a dilapidated kitchen and be a villager.

“Peel a corn cob,” Su Xiaoxiao said.

Wei Ting went to wash his hands and began to peel the corn cob.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “I want another bucket of water.”

Wei Ting went to get water again.

No way. Was this guy so obedient today?

Su Xiaoxiao sized him up. To be honest, she felt that it was abnormal if he and Father Su didn't slack off for a day.

“Mother, I'm full.” Xiaohu couldn't eat anymore. He raised half a piece of thin bacon and looked at Su Xiaoxiao eagerly.

He ate the fat part because it was so delicious. The other part was a little hard and his little teeth couldn't bite through it.

“Uh, I'm going to gain weight again.” Su Xiaoxiao sighed and ate it with Xiaohu's hand.

Among the three of them, only Dahu finished eating and gave Erhu's to Su Xiaoxiao.

The meat floss that fell from the stove was eaten by Su Xiaoxiao.

Wei Ting looked at her interaction with the three children and his eyes moved, but he did not say anything.

….

This was Su Xiaoxiao's first New Year in ancient times, and she took it very seriously.

In her previous life, Madam Li and Academician Su would only get together on New Year's Eve. Unfortunately, even so, their family had never had the atmosphere of New Year.

The three of them ate the New Year's Eve dinner cooked by the nanny and watched the live broadcast of the Spring Festival Gala. They stayed until midnight and ate dumplings or drank a bowl of silver ear soup. The New Year would be over.

Throughout the night, Madam Li and Academician Su did not exchange more than ten sentences.

As the only child in the family, she could still chatter a few years ago. When she grew up, she became an emotionless New Year machine like them.

At noon, Su Xiaoxiao cooked cured meat and jade rice. The cured meat was very soft, and the salty fragrance mixed perfectly with the sweetness of the corn. Coupled with a little glutinous rice, it tasted glutinous.

The three children liked it very much!

The family buried their heads in their food and finished the large pot of bacon rice in the blink of an eye.

Su Xiaoxiao was 60% full. She could only eat so little to lose weight.

Even though she was 60% full… the portion was actually not small.

She planned to make some soup. After removing the lid, Little Fatty's body trembled!

No way!

Were they all gone?

She made two meals!

Were they too good at eating?

Su Xiaoxiao felt that she had to hurry up and earn money. Otherwise, she might not be able to feed the family.

In the afternoon, Su Xiaoxiao planned to make some fried snacks.

She washed the table in the central room clean and sprinkled it with powder.

She remembered that in her previous life, her grandmother used the door as a table when she went to her grandmother's house in the countryside. The entire family gathered together and worked very quickly.

There were not many people in this house now, so the table was enough.

Su Xiaoxiao brought the fermented dough over and cut it into evenly-sized balls. She rolled them into strips and rubbed them into five centimeters of dough.

Su Ergou watched for a while and followed suit. He rubbed ten dough twists in one go.

Father Su and Wei Ting did not have this talent.

Su Xiaoxiao exploded. “It wasn't easy for me to roll dough into noodles… You guys made it back into dough!”

“Mother.” Dahu raised the ugly dough he had rubbed.

Su Xiaoxiao took a look and said, “The children are better than you!”

Su Xiaoxiao re-assigned the two of them to a job requiring lower skills-turning dumplings.

She cut the thin slices into small diamond-shaped pieces and made a cut in the middle. She passed a corner of the diamond-shaped slice through the cut. It was the dumpling that her grandmother had made for her when she was young.

Wei Ting was in charge of cutting, and Father Su was in charge of folding it.

Needless to say, Wei Ting's knife skills were really good. They were clean and precise.

Su Xiaoxiao's almond-shaped eyes widened. She bent down to admire the artwork that Wei Ting had cut out and muttered softly, “Have you practiced it before?”

“Yes, I've practiced it.”

Wei Ting's slender fingers held the knife and easily drew an opening of the same length and angle.

“Not only do you have to find the vital points when killing… If the angle and depth are a little different, you can't kill anyone.”

Su Xiaoxiao was speechless.

Opposite the two of them, Father Su worked hard to fold the dumpling skin. It was also a form of training for his right hand.

His right hand was getting more and more agile.

An 80% chance became 100%.

Su Xiaoxiao believed that with one or two bottles of black technology bone-strengthening pills from the pharmacy, he would definitely be completely cured!

Su Xiaoxiao took the fried dough and dumplings to the oil pot in the kitchen and fried them until they were golden and crispy. She placed sesame in half of them, and the fragrance of the oil and sesame wafted through most of the village!

In addition, Su Xiaoxiao also fried a few catties of lotus root and green bean balls and wrapped them in dumplings and spring rolls.

She called Su Ergou over and sent some fried goods and dumplings to Liu Ping and Little Wu.

She also gave a bowl to Old Li and Auntie Liu.

“Oh right, there's this.” Su Xiaoxiao took a few papercuts and couplets and handed them to Su Ergou.

Previously, she did not give them to Little Wu because they had not split up. If she had given them to her, it would be snatched away by Big Wu and the second branch.

There was no trouble now.

Su Ergou's movements were extremely smooth. He ran through the cold snow as expected of someone who grew up taking cold showers!

When he returned, Su Ergou had two large baskets of fresh vegetables and a sack of plump chestnuts.

—

On New Year's Eve, Su Xiaoxiao woke up earlier than she did business.

She wanted to make a reunion meal.

Other families would skip breakfast or take two bites at noon.

Their family could not do it. They had to eat until they were full.

She baked herself sweet potato pancakes with peanut butter and cooked vegetable egg noodles for her family, accompanied by fried lotus root and green bean balls.

Wei Ting's injuries were no longer serious. Other than abstaining from spicy food, there was no need to be too wary of anything else.

Then, Su Xiaoxiao sadly realized that this guy's appetite had increased since his food restrictions were removed.

There was now another person at home giving her cause to slog!

….

Su Xiaoxiao made braised crucian carp caught by Su Ergou at the river, braised lotus roots dug by Su Ergou at the fish pond, and wild vegetables and egg pancakes. The vegetables were plucked by Su Ergou at the back of the mountain.

She also steamed lotus root meatballs, green bean meatballs, and glutinous rice pearl meatballs.

The three little ones loved glutinous rice pearl balls the most and even accepted the small ginger grains inside.

There was also preserved food-pig liver, sausages, pork ribs, and a few stir-fried dishes.

Father Su really didn't expect to eat such a sumptuous reunion meal in his life. If only his wife was still around.

She would definitely be relieved.

“Grandpa, eat pork ribs.” Dahu picked up a big pork rib for him.

“Eat meat.” Erhu gave him the meat in his bowl.

Xiaohu's grasp of the chopsticks was not as good as his brothers'. He scooped a pearl ball with his small spoon and placed it clumsily into Father Su's bowl.

“Pig balls!” he said in a childish voice.

Father Su smiled and corrected him. “It's a pearl ball.”

Xiao Hu imitated him and said, “Pig balls.”

“Pearl balls!” Father Su taught patiently.

“Pig balls!”

Xiaohu studied hard!

Dahu stuck out his tongue. “Xiaohu is so stupid!”

Xiaohu waved his hand seriously. “Xiaohu isn't stupid!”

Erhu also said, “Stupid.”

Xiaohu said, “Not stupid!”

Erhu was a fence-sitter. “Yes, not stupid.”

Dahu insisted, “Stupid!”

Xiao Hu said, “I'm not stupid!”

The three little fellows quarreled. The main forces were Dahu and Xiaohu, and Erhu and the mud.

“Alright, alright, stop arguing.” Father Su's tears had already been stopped by the three little fellows.

As he coaxed the three of them and reminisced about his wife sadly, he realized that his emotions were no longer coherent!

“They've never been so noisy before.” Wei Ting seemed to be talking to himself or Su Xiaoxiao beside him.

Su Xiaoxiao looked at the three little ones who were no longer arguing but kept sticking out their tongues and making faces at each other. She smiled and said, “Are they noisy? I don't think so.”

If not for them chattering, how cold and desolate would it be this year?

At night, Su Xiaoxiao took out the big red lantern she had made and asked Wei Ting to hang it up.

Su Ergou cut a basket of bamboo from somewhere, raised a pile of firewood in the empty space in front of the door, and threw the bamboo in one by one.

The bamboo crackled like firecrackers.

The three little ones had never seen firecrackers before. Their first reaction was fear and they pounced into Su Xiaoxiao's arms.

Su Xiaoxiao smiled and said, “It's fine. These are firecrackers. They are very fun.”

As she spoke, she threw one into the fire herself.

The three little ones saw that Su Xiaoxiao was also playing and were really not afraid.

“More firecrackers! More firecrackers!”

The three of them ran over and held Su Ergou's hand.

“Okay!” Su Ergou said. “Watch.”

“Hey, hey, hey! What's that called? Let me do it!” Father Su decisively snatched Su Ergou's bamboo.

Chapter 85

Su Ergou was a little unwilling. “Dad! I only chopped off so much. Don't throw it all away!”

“I know, I know!”

Although Su Cheng said that, he did not hesitate to throw more, causing Su Ergou's heart to ache!

“Dahu, Erhu, Xiaohu, Grandpa will throw with you! Come!” Su Cheng picked them up one by one, held their soft hands to grab the bamboo, and threw.

Crack!

Clap! Clap! Clap!

The three little ones heard the firecrackers that they had blown up and shouted excitedly!

“It's Xiaohu's turn! It's Xiaohu's turn!” Xiao Hu shook Father Su's thigh, strongly protesting that his brothers had already played two rounds!

It was Father Su's fault for not being able to differentiate between the three little fellows and often carrying the wrong one.

“Okay, okay, okay. It's Xiaohu's turn.” Father Su put down Dahu.

When he turned around, he was carrying Erhu again.

Xiaohu clenched his fists and flapped his arms back. He said frantically, “Grandpa, I'm the one. Xiaohu!”

Wei Ting stood under the corridor and quietly watched this scene. A trace of gentleness flashed across his eyes, but there was also a hint of complexity.

They were very happy here, but one day, he would take them away.

While they were having fun, Su Xiaoxiao quietly entered Wei Ting's room.

She closed the door quietly.

This was originally a small storeroom. The latch had long been broken and had never been repaired. However, now that the entire family was setting firecrackers outside, they probably would not come over.

Wei Ting had a large hanging scale in his room. Father Su had brought it back from the escort agency when he was on an escort mission. The Host had weighed herself with that scale. Otherwise, she wouldn't have known that she weighed 200 catties.

The big hanging scale required two people to carry the big weighing pole and one person to control the weight.

This was not a problem for Su Xiaoxiao.

She found the scale rod and placed it on two cabinets before hanging the basket.

The quality of this basket was really good. It could even hold 200 catties.

Uh… Was this scale really not used to weigh pigs?

Su Xiaoxiao hung the heavy weights at 200 catties.

She had been trying to lose weight for a month. Logically speaking, she was less than 200 catties, but she was wearing such thick clothes and shoes. Those would add a few catties.

What was worth mentioning was that the weight in ancient times was different from modern times. It was not 10 taels per catty, but 16 taels per catty. This was the reality behind the saying half a catty for 8 taels to refer to two similar things.

As for the exact weight, it was different in every dynasty.

In this dynasty, she had done some measurements with the measuring cup she had brought out of the pharmacy. One tael here was 30 grams, and a catty was 480 grams.

Therefore, strictly speaking, she weighed less than 200 catties.

“I lost eight catties out of thin air! I'm really smart!”

Su Xiaoxiao raised her chin proudly, shook her fat body, and began to weigh it.

Weighing herself was a skill in itself. There was no need to mention that she had failed several times along the way. Fortunately, she could be considered half an expert in engineering. After messing around and sweating profusely, she finally weighed herself.

185!

She had lost 15 catties!

No, there were clothes!

When weighing the scale, none of the clothes could absolve themselves from adding to the weight!

Su Xiaoxiao decisively took off her clothes before heading up the scale again!.

On the other side, Xiao Hu was tired. He pulled Wei Ting's hand and looked around for Su Xiaoxiao.

“Mother, I want Mother.”

He said in a childish voice.

Dahu and Erhu were still in a good mood, playing with Father Su and Su Ergou.

Xiaohu went to Su Xiaoxiao's room first.

“Mother.”

He went to the kitchen at the back.

“Mother.”

“No.” He raised his head and looked at Wei Ting aggrievedly. “I want Mother.”

The doors of Su Ergou and Father Su's rooms were open. It was dark inside the rooms, and there was clearly no one inside.

Only Wei Ting's door was closed. There was faint candlelight under the door.

Wei Ting said to Xiao Hu, “Your mother is in my room.”

After saying that, Wei Ting was shocked. What did he mean… in his room?

Could it be that after living here for a long time, he really treated this place as his home?

“Mother!” Xiaohu went to push the door open, but he couldn't.

He looked at Wei Ting. “Dad, open it.”

This door was a little old and the door mortar was a little inflexible. Just because a child could not push it did not mean that Wei Ting could not do it.

Su Xiaoxiao had just stripped herself down to her undergarments when she heard Xiaohu's childish voice.

“No, no, no… later… ”

She screamed!

However, it was already too late.

The door was pushed open by Wei Ting.

She could not let Wei Ting and the children see her like this. The impact was really not good!

In a moment of desperation, Su Xiaoxiao's potential was activated. She rushed to the bed, pulled open Wei Ting's blanket, and crawled in domineeringly!

Boom!

The bamboo bed collapsed!

Xiao Hu was dumbfounded.

Wei Ting looked at the scattered clothes on the ground, then at the bed that had been crushed by Su Xiaoxiao, and at a certain girl lying in the ruins, only wrapped in a blanket and revealing two fair and chubby legs.

“You climbed into my bed in the middle of the night?”

Su Xiaoxiao was speechless. “…I can explain.”

….

“…That's the process.” Su Xiaoxiao told Wei Ting about her weighing process in detail.

Of course, she said that after putting on her clothes. Xiaohu was sleeping soundly in her arms.

Wei Ting said nothing.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Don't doubt me. Look! The scale is still there!”

It would be a lie to say that she was not embarrassed by such a huge incident. However, who would have thought that this would happen?

“Why did you take off your clothes?” Wei Ting asked.

“So it would be more accurate!” Su Xiaoxiao said. “You thin people can't understand our pain at all!”

She was very strict with her weight!

Su Xiaoxiao waved her hand. “Forget it, you won't understand even if I tell you.”

How could she expect a man with a V-line and an eight-pack to understand the twists and turns of her diet?

“I understand,” Wei Ting said.

“You really understand?” Su Xiaoxiao's eyes widened.

“Yes.” Wei Ting nodded.

Su Xiaoxiao relaxed. “Then tonight… I'll have to trouble you to squeeze in with Ergou. I'll repair the bed tomorrow. If it can't be repair, endure it for a few more days. After the New Year, I'll buy a bed.”

“Daughter! Son-in-law! The firecrackers are finished! I'm so hungry!”

Father Su strode over. “Eh? You two are here. Is Xiaohu asleep?”

He looked at the child in his daughter's arms and subconsciously lowered his voice.

Su Xiaoxiao touched Xiao Hu's smooth forehead. “He just fell asleep. Aren't Dahu and Erhu tired?”

Father Su smiled and said, “They're playing! They went to cut bamboo again!”

“Why are the two of you sitting in the house?” Father Su felt that the atmosphere was strange.

Wei Ting sighed. “Dad, Daya came to my room and caused my bed to collapse.”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “I… I was weighing myself!”

Was she weighing herself with the bed? Father Su looked at his fat daughter in shock, then at his handsome son-in-law, and understood something.

His fat daughter was very like her mother back then!

Back then, he was a brat and was so shy on his wedding night that he did not dare to look at his wife. In the end, it was his wife who quickly-

No, no, it had to be him. It had to be him!

He would never admit that he was the one who was pushed down!

Su Xiaoxiao saw his father's expression and knew that he was thinking about the wrong things.

“Dad! You've misunderstood! It's not what you think!”

She looked at Wei Ting and said fiercely, “Explain it to my father!”

Wei Ting sighed. “Sigh, if you want me to move into your room, just say it. Why break a bed?”

Su Xiaoxiao was speechless!

“Ahhh! Wei Ting! I'm going to kill you!”

Chapter 86

As Wei Ting moved into Su Xiaoxiao's room, Su Xiaoxiao followed behind him with the sleeping Xiaohu and gritted her teeth!

Wei Ting smiled faintly. “Then I'll sleep outside tonight?”

“Hmph!” Su Xiaoxiao ignored him.

Su Xiaoxiao gently placed Xiaohu under the blanket. She was clearly angry, but she exhibited a different kind of gentleness toward the children.

Habit was a terrifying thing. Even if they were not related by blood, some things were engraved in their bones.

After Su Xiaoxiao covered Xiaohu with the blanket, she turned to clean up the half-cut window flowers on the table.

Wei Ting pinched the little fellow's cheek.

Xiaohu was woken up by the pinch!

He opened his big black eyes and saw his father. A trace of fear flashed across his eyes!

Then, he turned around and saw Su Xiaoxiao busy at the table.

His mother was here. It was his mother's room.

Xiaohu closed his eyes and fell asleep again.

The corners of Wei Ting's mouth twitched. “Little brat!”

As Su Xiaoxiao kept the papercuts, she decided to cut the rest.

She sat down at the table and said proudly as she cut the window flowers, “Don't think I don't know what you're up to! You want to retrieve the token! I guarantee you that you won't be able to get it! Even if there's a negative distance between us, don't even think about knowing where the token is!”

“What negative distance?” Wei Ting asked.

Su Xiaoxiao glanced at him and said indifferently, “It's the closest distance between a man and a woman!”

She kept sprouting terms that he had never heard of. At first, Wei Ting thought that it was a dialect in this area, but later on, he gradually realized that she was the only one saying those strange words.

Wei Ting wondered what was inside her head. Why was she so different from ordinary people?

As for Su Xiaoxiao, she found it boring to crack dirty jokes in front of an ancient person who couldn't understand. So she changed the topic. “You're not sleeping?”

“Aren't you not asleep either?” Wei Ting asked.

Su Xiaoxiao snorted. “I'm doing the papercuts to stay up for the New Year. Why? Are you accompanying me?”

Wei Ting said, “Heh.”

Su Xiaoxiao knew very well what Wei Ting was planning. He wanted to find the token when she was asleep! Dream on!

The token was in the pharmacy. She couldn't even get it herself!

But then again, she had not expected Wei Ting to do this.

Where was this guy's bottom line? Or could it be that in order to take back the token, he could even sacrifice himself? He was really ruthless to himself!

Fortunately, she was not an enemy! Some people were merciless to their enemies, but they were not so ruthless to themselves.

Of course, this also confirmed the importance of that token. Su Xiaoxiao couldn't help but become even more curious.

What was it?

Why did Wei Ting and Jing Yi want it so badly?

Was it something that belonged to Wei Ting?

If so, was Jing Yi snatching it from Wei Ting?

If they fought one day, who would she help?

Her thoughts gradually strayed.

Wei Ting looked at her in confusion for a moment. The confusion was then replaced by contempt. His expression was even more exciting than Xiaohu's.

“You will cut your hand!” he said coldly.

“I won't!” Su Xiaoxiao came back to her senses and continued to do the papercuts.

Not long after, she finished cutting them all. She took a few to Father Su's house and pasted the papercuts with him.

“Sister!”

Su Ergou returned. He did not manage to cut the bamboo but carried a sleeping child in each arm.

Su Ergou looked extremely aggrieved. “Sister, they can sleep too well!”

A second ago, Dahu and Erhu were still shouting excitedly in the snow. In the next second, the two of them stretched out their arms to Su Ergou.

“Uncle, hug.”

He thought that the two little fellows were tired from walking, so he carried them. Unexpectedly, the two of them fell asleep once they were in his arms!

He did not manage to cut the bamboo and even carried the two weights for a long time. His arm was about to break. Boohoo!

“You can't do this! You were the ones who wanted to chop bamboo!”

Su Xiaoxiao laughed at the sight of an aggrieved Ergou.

Su Ergou said aggrievedly, “Sister, why are you still laughing!”

“Alright, alright, alright. I won't laugh at you anymore.” Su Xiaoxiao patted his shoulder. “Hahahahaha!”

Su Ergou was speechless.

Father Su took over the children. The little guys were sleeping soundly and their faces were flushed. It was unknown what they were dreaming about, but their little mouths were chattering and their eyebrows were raised. To think they could be furious in their dreams.

The more Father Su looked at them, the more he liked them.

Although he did not say it, he actually doted on the three little fellows very much. The most obvious expression was that he was not so stingy with the three little fellows.

Chapter 87

In the past, he couldn't bear to buy candied hawthorn for the three of them. Now, he was willing to buy… a stick.

The three of them ate a skewer.

If he bought it for Su Xiaoxiao, she would eat three skewers alone! His daughter was the most important!

Father Su carried the children to Su Ergou's room and carried Xiaohu from Su Xiaoxiao's room.

The rest of the papercuts were handed to Su Ergou and Wei Ting to paste while Su Xiaoxiao went to the kitchen to cook supper.

She had lost so much weight. She had to reward herself!

She would… eat a peanut butter dumpling.

Uh, no, it was dumplings dipped in peanut butter.

Su Xiaoxiao made cornmeal shrimp steamed dumplings. The shrimp was dried shrimp that she had taken from Aunt Fu. It was 80 to 90% dry and had a faint sea salt flavor. The locals were not used to it, so it was not sold well. However, Su Xiaoxiao liked it very much.

The steamed shrimp dumplings she made had a lot of filling with thin skin, high protein content, and low sugar content. They were very suitable for dieting.

It was also suitable for a family.

“Sister, I'm not full!” Su Ergou said.

He was at the age of growth and had the most terrifying appetite.

“Wait, it's coming up.”

Su Xiaoxiao scooped out the mutton noodle soup from the pot.

The three men each had a bowl.

Wei Ting was suddenly stunned when he saw this bowl of mutton noodle soup.

“Sister, what meat is this?” Su Ergou asked.

“Mutton.”

Su Xiaoxiao said.

It was difficult to buy mutton. If she didn't know Luo Dazhuang, she wouldn't have been able to buy it at all. She had only bought three catties.

She cleaned up the gamey smell and preserved the umami of the mutton to the greatest extent. In addition, she sprinkled a faint layer of pepper. It was not too spicy. After taking a bite, her entire body warmed up.

Su Ergou and Father Su were sweating profusely and could not stop eating.

Wei Ting looked at the mutton noodle soup in his bowl but did not move his chopsticks for a long time.

“Aren't you eating?” Su Xiaoxiao asked.

Wei Ting's mouth moved. “Where… did you learn this dish?”

“Aunt Fu taught me!” Su Xiaoxiao said without changing her expression. “Her temper is a little bad, but she knows how to cook a lot! I've learned a lot!”

Su Ergou was enlightened. “Sister! No wonder your culinary skills have become so good!”

The truth was actually related to Young Master Xiang.

Wei Ting's accent when he first came to the village was close to Young Master Xiang's. Since Young Master Xiang was from the capital, Su Xiaoxiao boldly guessed that Wei Ting might also be from the capital.

She asked Young Master Xiang about the local customs of the capital, including this mutton noodle soup.

Looking at Wei Ting's reaction, she had guessed correctly.

How did the people of the capital get chased here?

Wei Ting took a sip of mutton noodle soup in a daze; he really felt like he had returned to the mansion for the new year.

“Sister, can you make mutton soup tomorrow?” Su Ergou asked.

“No problem.”

The remaining 500 grams of mutton was originally used to wrap dumplings, but since Ergou wanted to eat mutton soup, she would make soup!

“Aiya, I ate too happily!” Father Su leaned back in his chair and touched his round stomach. Who would dare to say that his daughter didn't know anything? Her culinary skills were much better than the famous chefs he had encountered when he traveled everywhere!

Wei Ting was also a little unsatisfied.Perhaps it was another illusion, but the mutton soup she made… tasted like home.

At midnight, after the New Year celebration, the family returned to their rooms to rest.

Wei Ting had been separated from Su Xiaoxiao previously. Firstly, his injuries were too serious and it was easier for him to recuperate alone. Father Su had never told him the second reason. He was worried that his son-in-law was so seriously injured. If he died…

Ahem, alright, reality proved that he was overthinking.

His son-in-law was living a lively life!

In the east room, the couple finally sat calmly on the edge of the bed.

“Inside or outside?” Su Xiaoxiao asked expressionlessly.

“Whatever,” Wei Ting replied expressionlessly.

“If you get up at night, sleep outside. Don't disturb me.”

“My kidney is very good. There's no need.”

“Then I'll sleep outside! I wake up early!”

Su Xiaoxiao pulled open the blanket and Wei Ting lay down before her. He said calmly, “I've changed my mind. I'll sleep outside.”

Su Xiaoxiao pursed her lips, took off her shoes, stood up, and stepped over him!

Wei Ting was speechless.

Su Xiaoxiao wrapped the blanket tightly and rolled herself up into a silkworm. She said with a serious expression, “Cover yourself with a blanket. Don't snatch mine when you're cold!”

Wei Ting said calmly, “Mind your own business.”

This guy…

Su Xiaoxiao rolled her eyes at him!

“Go over a little,” Wei Ting said coldly.

Su Xiaoxiao gave him another death stare and moved in angrily until she was against the wall.

But soon, she frowned and moved back. She was even closer than before and almost squeezed into Wei Ting.

Wei Ting frowned. “What are you doing?”

Su Xiaoxiao raised her eyebrows and smiled. “I've thought about it. This is my bed. I can sleep wherever I want! If you have the ability, sleep on the floor!”

If they slept on the same bed, she would have been considered to have slept with him!

This body's sleep quality was extremely high. Wei Ting was about to choke her when he heard her even and steady breathing.

“You fell asleep so quickly. Are you a child…”

“Are you really asleep?”

“Su Daya?”

Su Xiaoxiao was right. Wei Ting was actually here for the token.

He could feel that his leg was fine. He would not require his walking stick soon. At that time, he could leave with the children.

However, before he left, he had to take back the token.

It was snowing outside, but it was not cold inside.

“Ah!”

She screamed in the middle of the night.

Wei Ting was instantly jolted awake and opened his cold eyes.

Could he fall asleep beside this woman?

Chapter 88

He subconsciously looked at the candlestick on the table. Because of New Year's Eve, they had not extinguished the candles before sleeping.

To Wei Ting's surprise, the candle was not much shorter than before he slept.

In other words, not much time had passed.

Had this woman drugged him? To make him sleep so quickly.

The screams continued. It was a little far away. Wei Ting was a martial artist, so he could hear a little intermittently.

He hesitated for a moment and shook Su Xiaoxiao's shoulder. “Wake up, something happened.”

Su Xiaoxiao was sleeping so soundly that she had long forgotten that Wei Ting was lying beside her.

She pulled Wei Ting into her arms and gently patted his back. “Xiaohu, stop fooling around…”

Wei Ting was speechless.

Fortunately, he reacted quickly and held his breath in time so he would not faint from the suffocation!

However, it was precisely because he did not faint that he felt the softness and fragrance.

Wei Ting blushed and hurriedly took her chubby arm away. He sat up straight and said seriously, “Something seems to have happened to Old Li's family!”

“What did you say? What happened to Old Li's house?” Su Xiaoxiao woke up.

“Someone's calling out,” Wei Ting said. “It's a scream.”

The Su family and Old Li's family lived at the end of the village and at the entrance. It was true that Wei Ting's hearing was too heaven-defying. Otherwise, even an expert in the Imperial City might not have been woken up by such a distant sound.

Su Xiaoxiao couldn't hear him.

However, she did not suspect that Wei Ting was lying to her or had heard wrongly.

They had endless arguments, but they also had unspeakable trust.

Su Xiaoxiao hurriedly went to put on her clothes.

The situation was urgent, so she couldn't care less about decency and climbed over Wei Ting.

The young woman's fragrance entered Wei Ting's nose again.

Wei Ting's eyes flickered as he turned around slightly.

Su Xiaoxiao grabbed the cotton shirt and turned around to see Wei Ting lifting the blanket and getting out of bed.

“What are you doing?” she asked.

“I'll go with you to take a look,” Wei Ting said.

“Can your leg withstand it?”

“It's fine.”

Su Xiaoxiao didn't refuse.

Wei Ting was still not used to the type of clothes in the countryside. He had to take a long time every time he buttoned himself.

After Su Xiaoxiao put on her clothes, he was still frowning at the buttons.

“I'll do it!”

Su Xiaoxiao walked forward. “Raise your arms!”

Wei Ting obediently raised his arm.

Su Xiaoxiao buttoned him up seriously and quickly, then grabbed the belt to fasten it for him.

The two of them did not consummate their marriage, but at this moment, for the first time, they looked like a real couple-a wife tidying her husband's clothes.

Su Xiaoxiao's attention was all on Old Li's house, so she didn't notice that the two of them were a little too intimate.

Wei Ting looked at a fat girl who was wholeheartedly helping him change. “You…”

“Let's go!” Su Xiaoxiao said.

After tidying up, they could go out!

Wei Ting shut up.

Su Xiaoxiao handed him his walking stick. Seeing that he looked like he was owed money, she asked, “What's wrong?”

“Nothing.” Wei Ting leaned on his walking stick and left with a cold expression.

—

At this time, the villagers had already fallen asleep. There was only some movement in the other Su family.

The two of them heard the woman's screams and some children's sad and afraid cries from afar.

“It's Qiuni.”

Wei Ting said.

He was often pulled by Su Cheng to learn farming from Madam Qian. He had seen Madam Qian and Old Li's grandchildren. The grandson was three years old and was called Shuanzi. The granddaughter was seven years old and was called Qiuni.

The one crying now was Qiuni.

The woman who was screaming was undoubtedly the mother of Qiuni and Shuanzi, Madam Zhao.

The village head's house was next door. He and his wife were also woken up. When Su Xiaoxiao and Wei Ting arrived, he had just come out of bed with only half of his cotton shirt buttoned.

“Daya, Mr. Wei?”

The village head was surprised.

In the past, he was just like the villagers and addressed Wei Ting as Brother. Later on, after seeing Wei Ting's talent, he felt a sense of respect and changed the way he addressed him.

“Village Head,” Wei Ting greeted.

“Why are you guys here?” the village head asked.

Wei Ting said, “We heard some commotion in the Li family, so we came over to take a look.”

How could he hear it from so far away? What kind of ears did the two of them have?

He was only woken up at this moment!

Wei Ting went to knock on the door. Just as he raised his hand, the door was pulled open.

It was Old Li who opened the door.

Old Li was shocked to see them standing at the door!

“Grandpa Li, it's us,” Su Xiaoxiao said.

Old Li wiped his cold sweat and asked, “Daya? Brother Ting? Village Head? Why are you here?”

Chapter 89

“What happened to Sister-in-law?” Su Xiaoxiao asked. This form of address was enough to show that she was not distant from Old Li.

Old Li wiped his red eyes. “In the afternoon, Shuanzi fell. She went to pick up the child and knocked herself… At first, she was fine… But something felt wrong at night…”

The village head's expression changed.

Little Madam Zhao was probably going to give birth!

He hurriedly said, “Then hurry up and invite the midwife!”

That was the problem!

The midwife… was gone!

When his daughter-in-law first realized that her stomach was not feeling well, Old Li went to hire a midwife.

The midwife was here, but as soon as she entered the village… she was intercepted!

“Who is it? Other than the mother of Shuanzi and Qiuni, is there anyone else in our village who is about to give birth?”

The village head was an honest man couldnt figure it out.

“The Su family?” Su Xiaoxiao asked.

Wei Ting had more or less guessed it. Along the way, only the Su family had not slept. If there was someone else in the village giving birth, it could only be traced to the Su family.

The village head thought for a moment. “No one from Old Master Su's family is pregnant!”

“Yuniang?” Su Xiaoxiao asked again.

Old Li nodded again.

Yuniang was Su Jinniang's elder sister. She had married someone from another village three years ago and had just gotten pregnant this spring. On the 15th of August, she returned to her parents' house to visit them.

The village head had an impression of this.

“Is she back for the new year?” The village head frowned. “But she can't snatch the midwife you invited.”

Old Li did not expect Su Yuniang to do this.

Old Li said, “The midwife also came to take a look. She said that Shuanzi's mother wasn't in labor yet. She went to Yuniang first and said that she would come over after Shuanzi's mother has gone into labor…”

However, the truth was that he could not invite her.

The midwife was from He Tongsheng's village and was close to him, so she naturally knew the situation of the Su family. Su Yuniang was married to the grandson of the head of the Shallow Water Village and had a sister-in-law who was the young madam of the town.

How could Madam Zhao compare?

“Why are you standing at the door? Hurry up and call the midwife!”

It was Madam Qian's voice.

“I'll go first!” Old Li said to the three of them and went to Old Su's house in the snow.

Old Li returned very quickly, his face filled with anxiety and frustration.

“Yuniang is also giving birth. The midwife can't leave…”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Grandpa Li, let me take a look.”

“You?” Old Li looked at Su Xiaoxiao in shock.

Even though he understood that Su Daya was capable and was no longer the lazy little bully from before, this transformation was probably not enough for her to help deliver a child!

Wei Ting said, “Grandpa Li, let Daya try. Daya knows medicine.”

The village head and Old Li said in unison, “You… know medicine?”

In order to save people, she could not wear her medical vest.

Su Xiaoxiao said seriously, “I met a doctor in town who taught me some Qihuang techniques.”

The village head said, “Daya, giving birth is not a joke!”

“I'm not joking. If you don't believe me, ask Wei Ting. I know medicine! Right, husband?” She looked at Wei Ting.

Wei Ting did not undermine her in the end. He nodded and said, “Daya's medical skills are comparable to many famous doctors I've seen.”

Was this guy… praising her?

This was the first time.

Su Xiaoxiao straightened her back!

The village head was very respectful to scholars. Wei Ting had good handwriting and wrote good couplets. In his heart, this was a descendant of a scholarly family. He believed Wei Ting's words.

But Little Madam Zhao was the wife of the Li family after all…

“Old Li…” He turned to look at Old Li, who seemed to have aged ten years overnight.

Old Li fell into a huge dilemma.

At his age, how could he not understand that giving birth was like walking through the gates of hell?

He also hoped that he could believe Wei Ting and Daya, but the person lying in the room was his daughter-in-law, the biological mother of his two grandchildren.

If anything went wrong, the two children would become motherless!

Su Xiaoxiao understood his dilemma. If it were her, she probably wouldn't believe that a little bully who had done evil for many years could deliver a child.

However, this was different from that situation at Jin Ji. She could not use force.

She sighed softly and said patiently, “Grandpa Li, you won't be able to hire another midwife. Why don't you let me try?”

“Let Daya try,” Wei Ting said. ” Daya is a girl. Let her in and help. It's good for her to take care of Qiuni.”

These words were like a brick that shattered the door, loosening the defense in Old Li's heart.

That's right. Her son was chopping firewood and boiling water in the kitchen. There was only Madam Qian in the house. She had to take care of her pregnant daughter-in-law and coax her crying granddaughter. Her heart was a mess!

Su Xiaoxiao nodded to herself. Although Wei Ting was a martial artist, he was not stupid.

Old Li brought Su Xiaoxiao to his daughter-in-law's room.

Wei Ting and the village head waited in the central room.

“It will turn misfortune into good luck, right?” the village head asked nervously.

Wei Ting said nothing. Even if Su Daya's medical skills were brilliant, giving birth was really a dangerous thing. If the mother of Dahu and his brothers had not wanted to give birth to them, she would not have…

“No way!”

Madam Qian's voice interrupted Wei Ting's thoughts.

Wei Ting and the village head looked over at the same time.

Madam Qian left the room and blocked Su Xiaoxiao at the door. She said to Old Li, “I asked you to look for the midwife! Look what you found! She's just a little girl! Are you crazy to let her deliver Chunxiu's child!”

Old Li was embarrassed.

Su Xiaoxiao sighed.

Sigh, had he listened to Wei Ting's words in vain? Once they met, Auntie Qian gave it to her. The first few sentences could really be omitted!

Now, she couldn't even enter. How was she going to help Little Madam Zhao deliver the child?

After their interaction for a period of time, Auntie Qian had already changed her opinion of the Su family a little. However, this did not mean that she would hand her daughter-in-law's life over to Fatty Su.

Fatty Su was at most a little bully who had turned over a new leaf. Could she be a midwife? Impossible!

Su Xiaoxiao learned Wei Ting's way of persuasion. “Auntie Qian, I'm not doing anything else. I'm just going in to see Qiuni and say a few words to Sister-in-law. Sister-in-law can't fall asleep now.”

Madam Qian's heart skipped a beat. That's right. When women gave birth, they wouldn't wake up once they fall asleep…

Su Xiaoxiao clenched her chubby fists. “Look at me. If I stand there, she won't be sleepy anymore. She'll be so scared the child will be out in no time!”

Madam Qian was speechless.

Chapter 90

It was impossible to scare the child out, but Madam Qian could tell that Fatty Su was sincere in helping.

In the end, her man was just a farmer who had been digging for food for his entire life, and she was just an ignorant village woman. How could she really stabilize herself in this situation?

She was already panicking!

In terms of trust in Fatty Su, Old Li was better. After all, he had seen with his own eyes how desperately Fatty Su dealt with evil people in order to protect the New Year goods he had hauled for the villagers.

Madam Qian felt that this family was not as bad as before and was showing signs of improvement. At the end of the day, however, she was too traumatized by the Little Su family in the past. Deep down, she could not hand her daughter-in-law's life to a little bully.

“Stop causing trouble. Go back.”

She finally made such a difficult decision. “Xiaoyong's father, go to the kitchen to boil water and ask your son to go to town to see if he can get a doctor from the medical center!”

The village head said, “The doctor isn't good at delivering babies either!”

There was a hierarchy of knowledge and specialization. Doctors treated people, but midwives delivered babies!

Madam Qian pointed at Fatty Su and said, “Is she a midwife? How did you dare to let her in?”

“Mother! Mother!”

From the back room came Qiuni's cries.

Madam Qian's expression changed. She turned around and lifted the curtain to enter the room!

Old Li and the village head also took a step forward. This was their instinct to help, but they were men and could not watch a woman give birth. They could only hold it in.

However, Su Xiaoxiao seized the opportunity and entered the room!

She came to the bed and looked at the sweating and pale Madam Zhao. She grabbed her wrist and took her pulse.

“Why did you come in!” Madam Qian scolded.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “How long has it been since she ate?”

“What?” Madam Qian did not hear her clearly.

Su Xiaoxiao changed her words. “I'm asking, how long has it been since she ate?”

Madam Qian said in a daze, “It's been a while. She knocked her belly on the table and hasn't eaten anything since.”

She had hurt herself. Her body was uncomfortable and she could not eat at all.

Su Xiaoxiao immediately said, “Go boil a bowl of sugar water for her!”

With that, she retrieved the first aid kit from the small basket, unzipped it, took out a pair of sterile gloves, and put them on.

When she practiced medicine, she seemed to have become a different person. Her every move exuded a serious aura.

Madam Qian's words were suddenly stuck in her throat!

This Fat Lass Su was undoubtedly unfamiliar to her. She had an authoritative aura that could not be rejected, but she did not look like she was bullying her.

“It's best to add two poached eggs!” Su Xiaoxiao added.

Madam Qian left in a daze.

She couldn't explain why she listened to Fatty Su.

Su Xiaoxiao said to Qiuni, who was crying so hard that she was out of breath, “Don't worry, your mother is just hungry. She'll have the strength after eating something. Qiuni, can you help Grandma get the eggs first?”

Qiuni nodded with tears in her eyes. “Yes!”

She obediently went to get the eggs.

Su Xiaoxiao first took a clean gauze to wipe the sweat on Madam Zhao's face and neck.

“Did your water break?”

She asked softly and Madam Zhao nodded weakly.

Su Xiaoxiao touched her stomach. “The position of the fetus is positive. I just took your pulse, and it's very good. You'll be fine. Don't scare yourself. This isn't a difficult labor. Even if I didn't come, you could have given birth yourself.”

Clinically speaking, Little Madam Zhao's fetus was already full-term. It was not considered premature. It was just that there was no labor that was not difficult.

Secondly, she had an accident in the evening and it acted up at night. Madam Zhao thought that it was because of this that she might not be able to keep this baby. She was nervous and under too much mental pressure, so she couldn't eat, causing her stamina to be exhausted and her blood sugar to be too low.

Su Xiaoxiao said softly, “It takes strength to give birth. You have to eat, understand?”

Little Madam Zhao choked and nodded.

Fatty Su's eyes and voice were too gentle, exuding a calming power, making her subconsciously think of her mother.

Little Madam Zhao had never studied and did not know how to express her current feelings. In short, she wanted to cry.

It was not a sad cry.

This was Fatty Su.

She should have been afraid.

But why… did her heart fall back into place?

Madam Qian cooked a bowl of sugar eggs and fed them to her daughter-in-law.

It was strange. She had only gone to cook a bowl of sugar eggs. Why didn't her daughter-in-law cry or shout?

She didn't seem to be worried that she wouldn't be able to give birth anymore and worked hard to eat. No matter what she said at night, she wouldn't eat…

Madam Qian looked at Fatty Su strangely.

Could it be… this girl's credit?

After Madam Zhao finished eating the sugar eggs, she finally had the strength to give birth.

After her uterus opened to the maximum, Su Xiaoxiao placed her hand on her stomach and felt every contraction. “Are you ready? When I tell you to exert force later, do it.”

Little Madam Zhao nodded.

The contraction came.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Inhale. Very good, hard!”

Madam Qian was stunned. She had given birth herself and had seen her daughter-in-law give birth. Even if she did not know much about it, some things were interlinked.

The midwife seemed to deliver babies like this.

Fatty Su really understood! Had Fat Lass Su secretly gone to learn to be a midwife?

Outside the house, Old Li and his son were as anxious as ants on a hot pan. They kept walking around the central room.

“Mother, has Chunxiu given birth?” Li Xiaoyong asked.

Madam Qian chuckled. “Stop asking! Go away! Do you think you're wrapping dumplings? Giving birth is way harder than that!”

Li Xiaoyong shut his mouth resentfully.

The village head looked silent and calm, but in fact, his heart was in turmoil. The only calm person in the central room was Wei Ting. Was he indifferent? No, if he really didn't care, he wouldn't have come with Daya. Wei Ting must be confident in Daya's medical skills since he did not panic at all. In that case, he should trust Daya more.

The village head was thinking too much. Wei Ting only felt that it was useless for him to think too much. He could not help much inside. It was better to wait quietly for the news. At least, he would not be a hindrance.

Little Madam Zhao's delivery was in the final stage.

She held Su Xiaoxiao's hand tightly and used her last bit of strength as a mother.

It turned out that Little Madam Zhao had indeed frightened herself at first. After Su Xiaoxiao came to deliver her child, the process went very smoothly.

With a loud cry, everyone felt relieved.

“It's a fat kid.” Su Xiaoxiao wrapped the child up and carried him into Madam Zhao's arms. “You're so brave.”

Little Madam Zhao's eyes were red. It was only right for a woman to give birth. No one had ever praised her like this. At most, they would say she was really good at giving birth. It felt different when Fatty Su praised her.

She seemed to have… really done something amazing!

Chapter 91

Old Li waited anxiously outside the door. “Old woman, quickly carry it out and let me take a look! Is Chunxiu alright?”

“I'm fine.” Madam Zhao's voice could not be heard outside.

“Chunxiu!” Li Xiaoyong called her.

Little Madam Zhao wanted to respond, but she really did not have the strength.

“Chunxiu, you must be tired. I'll make you something to eat!” When Madam Qian saw her daughter-in-law like this, her heart ached. “I'll carry the child out first. Rest well.”

“Thank you, Mother,” Little Madam Zhao said weakly.

Madam Qian picked up the newborn baby. “As a mother-in-law, I should thank you for adding children to the family! Alright, stop talking and sleep for a while.”

Little Madam Zhao nodded slightly.

The next two hours were very important. The mother's heart rate and blood pressure had to be observed to see if there was any postpartum hemorrhage.

This was also known as the fourth birth.

Su Xiaoxiao stayed in the room.

Seeing that Su Xiaoxiao didn't leave, Madam Qian fell silent this time. She carried the child to the door and was about to draw the curtain when she turned around.

“Fatty, thank you.”

If not for Fatty Su today, Chun Xiu would never have given birth successfullly.

It didn't matter if Chun Xiu was frightened or if their entire family was panicking. In short, it was only after Fatty Su came that Chun Xiu's situation changed.

She would not think that Fatty Su had not contributed just because Fatty Su said that Little Madam Zhao could give birth naturally.

She remembered what had happened this time.

Su Xiaoxiao waved her hand. “I can't thank you enough!”

The corners of Wei Ting's mouth twitched. Was this how this sentence was used? How could she say that she could not thank her enough?

Soon, Wei Ting knew that Su Xiaoxiao had not used the wrong sentence. She had really gone with the flow and seized her opportunity.

Su Xiaoxiao said seriously, “If you really want to thank me, please teach my father and husband how to farm after spring!”

Madam Qian staggered with her grandson in her arms and almost fell!

….

Su Xiaoxiao stayed in the house for a full two hours. It was almost dawn.

Little Madam Zhao had long fallen asleep peacefully. Her condition was very stable.

Su Xiaoxiao could finally go back.

She walked out stiffly with two big dark circles under her eyes.

This was really not a body that could stay up late. She had pinched herself countless times, and her legs were swollen…

After the village head learned that the mother and son were safe, he went back first. Only Wei Ting, Old Li, and Li Xiaoyong were left in the central room.

Seeing Su Xiaoxiao come out, Old Li hurriedly said, “Daya, go back after some food! Your Auntie Qian went to cook!”

“It's almost done!” Auntie Qian shouted in the kitchen, afraid that Fat Lass Su would leave just like that.

After a tiring night, they should at least let her stay for a meal!

Su Xiaoxiao didn't say anything.

Old Li looked at her in a daze. “Daya, Daya?”

Su Xiaoxiao fell facedown!

“Daya!” Old Li's expression changed drastically!

Wei Ting reacted quickly, grabbed the mattress that Li Xiaoyong carried, and threw it over!

Su Xiaoxiao fell onto the soft mattress.

Old Li and Li Xiaoyong heaved a sigh of relief!

God, they were scared to death!

Fatty Su almost fell to the ground!

It was already very miserable to be so fat. If she fell and ruined her appearance again, she would really not be able to live!

Old Li was terrified. “What happened to Daya? Daya! Daya!”

Wei Ting walked over with his walking stick and checked Su Xiaoxiao's breathing. He said to Old Li and Li Xiaoyong, “It's fine. She's asleep.”

Old Li and Li Xiaoyong were speechless.

Wei Ting had witnessed her ability to fall asleep instantly and was very calm.

He set his walking stick aside.

Old Li hurriedly said, “Xiaoyong, quickly carry Daya into the room with Mr. Wei!”

“Okay!” Li Xiaoyong came over to help.

Wei Ting said, “There's no need. I'll bring her back.”

As he spoke, he helped Su Xiaoxiao up and turned around to carry her on his back.

Seeing that Wei Ting had actually carried Fatty Su on his back, the father and son were simply stunned!

“Sorry, we dirtied your mattress,” Wei Ting said.

Old Li instantly came back to his senses and said in fear, “You're treating me like an outsider! It's all thanks to Daya today!”

So what if she dirtied a mattress? She could even tear down his house!

Wei Ting carried Su Xiaoxiao away.

Li Xiaoyong said, “Dad, am I seeing things? Isn't Mr. Wei crippled? How can he still carry Fatty?”

Old Li slapped his forehead. “Aiya! Look at my brain. I've been nervous all night! Hurry up and help! And take Mr. Wei's walking stick!”

Li Xiaoyong chased after her with his walking stick.

Wei Ting just asked him to help send the walking stick home, and he could handle Su Daya on his own.

There should be some distance between men and women, so Li Xiaoyong did not insist. Moreover, even if he wanted to, he could not carry Fatty Su, who weighed 200 pounds. Mr. Wei was too amazing!

Wei Ting carried Su Xiaoxiao back to the east room. Su Xiaoxiao was sleeping soundly.

Wei Ting was not so lucky. Not to mention that he had not obtained the token, his leg, which had finally healed, had withstood a heavy load again.

Looking at the heartless little fat girl, Wei Ting gritted his teeth and clenched his fists.

The plan to leave… had to be postponed again!

—

Su Xiaoxiao didn't know that Wei Ting was gritting his teeth.

She had broken her limit tonight. She had endured much harder than the night she made peanut butter.

However, her hard work was not without reward.

She had entered the pharmacy again!

This time, she was in the pharmacy lounge. On the clean table was a bottle of medicine she had never seen before.

“Multivitamins?”

These should be for her.

She had lost weight recently. Apart from a lot of physical work, she also consumed less food. It was indeed easy for her to lack various nutrients.

Su Xiaoxiao pinched her small double chin suspiciously.

“This has never happened before. Could it be… a reward for me?”

“Are you rewarding me for delivering Little Madam Zhao's child? Or are you rewarding me for working hard to lose weight recently?”

“It can't be that I was rewarded for sleeping with Wei Ting…”

They had slept on the same bed! It had to count and she did not accept any rebuttal!

Forget it. Who cared about the reason? It was good to have it!

Ever since she witnessed the effects of the black technology bone-strengthening pills, Su Xiaoxiao no longer dared to underestimate these seemingly ordinary health supplements.

Moreover, in the winter, when there was a severe shortage of fruits, vitamins were indeed good things.

She wondered if children could eat it. If they could, she wanted to give some to the three little ones-

Su Xiaoxiao put away the vitamins and paused for a moment before sighing. “But it's not enough to only supplement vitamins. I do so much work daily, consuming a lot of energy. Recently, I've been feeling a little cramp in my calves… I don't know if I'm short of calcium… I have to find some calcium tablets!”

“Calcium tablets.”

She looked around.

As she walked, she arrived at the familiar medicine cabinet.

“Eh? Where are the calcium tablets?”

She pretended to look for it. Suddenly, she grabbed a bottle of bone-strengthening pills!

As expected, she was blasted out again!

But she had already obtained the bone-strengthening pills!

Su Xiaoxiao threw her head back and laughed. “Hahaha!”

Chapter 92

Wei Ting was woken up by Su Xiaoxiao's demonic laughter.

His first reaction was that this girl had gone crazy in the middle of the night.

No, it was already dawn.

His second reaction was that he had actually fallen asleep beside this girl again.

That wasn't like him.

Even with the three little fellows, he remained vigilant and did not dare to fall asleep entirely.

He was naturally not guarding against the three little fellows, but against others hurting them.

In short, since he was a very guarded person, it was really odd to fall into a deep sleep beside a woman twice in a row.

“Wei Ting, you're the best!”

Su Xiaoxiao turned around and naturally gave Wei Ting a bear hug!

Wei Ting stiffened.

What did this have to do with Wei Ting? It was purely because Su Xiaoxiao was too happy and couldn't find a way to celebrate. Fortunately, she used Wei Ting as a free human pillow.

Then, Su Xiaoxiao fell asleep again.

Wei Ting frowned. “Su Daya, don't push your luck! Take your hand away!”

“Hu hu… ”

“Did you hear that!”

“Hu hu… ”

Wei Ting frowned and removed her soft and chubby arm.

She leaned forward again.

He took it away.

She got on.

After repeating this a few times, Wei Ting fell asleep.

….

When Su Xiaoxiao woke up, it was already noon.

The first thing she did when she opened her eyes was reach under the mattress on the inside of the bed.

After she came out of the pharmacy, she stuffed the bone-strengthening pills and multivitamins here…

She was not dreaming. She had really entered!

A beautiful day began with fleecing the pharmacy!

She was so happy!

Wei Ting woke up earlier than Su Xiaoxiao. His voice came from the central room, along with Father Su and Su Ergou.

The entire family was up.

That was true. It was noon. She should be too hungry to sleep by now.

Su Xiaoxiao first studied the bottle of multivitamins. The pills were in the form of chewable gummies and were not recommended for those under the age of three.

In other words, the three little ones could not consume them.

In addition, the bottle was marked as reserved for ladies, so Father Su and Su Ergou could not consume the multivitamins.

They seemed to be for her.

Su Xiaoxiao took two orange pills according to the dosage marked on the bottle.

It was sour and sweet and quite delicious.

—

Old Li came to the Su family's house with a basket of red eggs and told them about Su Xiaoxiao delivering the baby. Hearing that it was due to the teachings of a physician in town, Father Su did not doubt it at all.

Su Ergou, on the other hand, looked enlightened. “It's Doctor Fu, right? No wonder every time I go there, my sister talks to him alone for a while. It's Doctor Fu who's teaching my sister medical skills!”

Old Master Su was proud. “My daughter is so powerful!”

Only Wei Ting remained silent.

Su Daya had clearly met Physician Fu after going to town to do business, but before doing business, she was already treating his legs.

He could almost conclude that her medical skills were not taught by Physician Fu.

Why would she lie?

In fact… why did she hide it from her biological father and brother?

What secrets did she have?

For the first time, Wei Ting became seriously curious about Su Xiaoxiao.

—

As soon as Su Xiaoxiao came out, the three children didn't want anything else and pounced into her arms.

After they found themselves lying on Uncle Ergou's bed when they woke up, they felt that they had slept for nothing!

It must be Stinky Daddy!

He must have carried them away so he could lay on their mother's bed!

Hmph!

They were going to ignore their stinky father!

Bad Daddy!

Su Xiaoxiao patted the three of them on the head.

It was not enough for them to touch her. They wanted her to kiss and hug them!

The three of them pouted and wheedled, making Su Xiaoxiao laugh.

The sadness and joy of people were indeed not interlinked. The three little fellows felt they were wronged, but why did she think that they looked so funny?

….

The good news of Madam Zhao giving birth to a son spread throughout the entire village early in the morning. The mother and son were safe, and the villagers congratulated them.

On the other side, Su Yuniang was not so lucky. She had intercepted Madam Zhao's midwife and was not frightened by any accidents. Logically speaking, she should have given birth more smoothly than Madam Zhao.

Who would have thought that she would give birth to a little daughter? The child was fine, but she was not.

After having trouble with her labor in the middle of the night, the midwife gave her a dose of medicine. Perhaps she had given her too much, but Su Yuniang became weak after giving birth.

Immediately after, Su Yuniang bled profusely. The midwife ran away in fear. Poor Su Yuniang was alone in the delivery room in pain.

Su Yuniang's return to her maiden home did not alarm the village, but the cries of a baby and Su Yuniang had shaken everyone.

The gossipy Madam Zhou lived next door. Once Madam Zhou found out, the entire village knew.

The village head went to the Su family to understand the situation. When he returned, he bumped into Madam Qian, who was feeding Shuanzi at the door.

Madam Qian asked, “What's the situation with Yu Niang?”

The village head said without hiding anything, “… I guess she had an overdose, courtesy of the midwife.”

When Madam Qian heard this, she didn't know if she should be afraid or glad.

This midwife had not held back with the dosage. If Su Yuniang had not intercepted her yesterday, wouldn't her daughter-in-law have been the one to suffer?

The village head had also thought of this. He thought a little more.

If Su Yuniang hadn't snatched Madam Zhao's midwife yesterday, Su Daya would have heard her giving birth and gone to see what had happened.

In that case, would Su Yuniang be safe and sound?

The village head pondered for a moment and turned to go to the Su family's house.

Su Xiaoxiao was eating in the kitchen while the three little ones accompanied her.

The village head said, “… Daya, can you go and see Yuniang?”

Su Xiaoxiao paused in her eating and said casually, “I have no objections, but are you sure Su Yuniang is willing to let me see her?”

The village head stood up from the small stool and said excitedly, “It's fine as long as you say so. I'll go to the Su family!”

He took two steps forward and turned to look at Su Xiaoxiao. “Daya, you've really changed. Your mother will definitely be happy for you!”

….

The village head braved the thick snow to come to the Su family. However, to his surprise, Su Yuniang actually rejected his good intentions!

He finally understood why Su Daya asked him if he was sure Su Yuniang was willing to let Su Daya attend to her.

Su Yuniang was really unwilling!

“She even guessed this… She's much smarter…”

Actually, this was not difficult to guess. Although the Li family and Su Xiaoxiao had a good relationship, didn't they almost keep her out?

On the other hand, she had nothing to do with the Su family. It would be strange if they believed her.

In addition, Su Yuniang had married into a “rich family” and was very arrogant. There was no need to mention Su Jinniang…

However, there were some things that Su Xiaoxiao knew in her heart, but she couldn't say them out loud. She had to let the village head hit a wall himself.

Otherwise, it would seem like she was judging a gentleman by her own standards.

She could be a bully, but she did not want to be used as a foil for the Su family's reputation!

Chapter 93

In the central room, the village head was sitting opposite Old Master Su.

Old Master Su looked very tired, probably because he was worried about his granddaughter, Su Yuniang.

The reason why the Su family was quite famous in the village was due to the great famine in Qingzhou 30 years ago. Many refugees had to go hungry and starving people were everywhere. It was even said that many people had traded their children for food.

Apricot Flower Village also suffered a calamity. It was Old Master Su's father who went to town to pawn the Su family's ancestral jade pendant at a high price and bought back food to help the entire village. That was why everyone did not starve to death.

Later on, the entire village mourned when Old Master Su's father passed away.

It was not an exaggeration to say that without Old Master Su's father, they would not have their current village.

Because of this relationship, even if he was a village head, even if he was of the same generation as Old Master Su, he still respected him very much. Furthermore, he was indeed nearly ten years younger than Old Master Su.

He said earnestly, “Daya learned from the physician in town. She's very capable! Last night, Shuanzi's mother delivered her child with Daya's help! The mother and son are safe!”

Old Master Su said, “I heard that Mr. Wei also wrote a couplet for Village Head and you stuck it at the entrance. Do you look down on Scholar Chen?”

The village head was a little stunned when he heard this. Why was it related to the couplet? Wasn't he talking about treating Yuniang?

Soon, the village head came back to his senses.

Scholar Chen's couplet was sent over on account of the Su family. But the village head had put up the one that was written by Wei Ting. This was equivalent to embarrassing the Su family.

He really didn't think too much about it. It was his wife who felt that the conflict between Scholar Chen and Madam Huang and Fat Lass Su's family was too ugly and inauspicious. She didn't want to paste the one written by Scholar Chen and it had nothing to do with the Su family.

The village head sighed in a low voice. “Brother Su, do you think I came to speak up for Daya because I received benefits from her? When Daya treats Yuniang, the one who benefits is Yuniang, not Daya.”

Old Master Su snorted. “After she treats Yuniang, who won't look for her if they have a headache or fever in the future?”

The village head knew that Old Master Su was a kind person. He hated evil to the core and disdained interacting with Su Cheng's family of bullies.

“Daya isn't such a person.” Li Zheng said, “She's much more sensible now. She's doing business and learning skills from others. She's really changed a lot. If you trust me, let Daya come over and take a look at Yuniang.”

“I don't want that fatty to treat me!”

Su Yuniang's panting voice came from the inner room.

She was in so much pain that she was about to abandon the child. However, even so, she would never let someone like Fatty Su treat her!

The village head was confused, but she was not!

Other than being lazy, the Su family only extorted money everywhere. None of their family was good!

Was Fatty Su trying to deceive her again?

Was she, Su Yuniang, such a stupid person?

It was most likely a coincidence that Fatty Su had delivered Madam Zhao's child safely!

Madam Zhao had given birth to two children before. She could give birth to her third child with her eyes closed. Why would she need a midwife?

“Ouch!”

A sharp pain came from her abdomen. Su Yuniang gripped the mattress tightly and almost fainted.

“Stop talking!” Madam Fang, who was guarding the bed, was so anxious that tears welled up in her eyes. “Can't you save some strength!”

Su Yuniang endured the intense abdominal pain and said with cold sweat, “I… I don't care… I don't want Fatty Su to come over…”

The cotton mat under her was soaked in blood again. As Madam Fang wiped her tears, she went to her room to find a new mat for her.

Su Jinniang said in a low voice, “Sister, why don't… I go to the Su family to take a look? If Fatty Su is really lying, I should be able to find out after testing her.”

Su Yuniang glared at her. “Forget it! Don't think I don't know what you're up to!”

Su Jinniang's expression changed slightly. She lowered her head and remained silent.

Outside the house, the village head was a little awkward.

Old Master Su said, “Go back. I've already asked Yuniang's brother to go to the Rong'en Hall in town to invite a doctor.”

The village head was shocked. “Rong'en Hall? The medical center in town? The consultation fees there are not cheap!”

Especially when it came to house calls, it was countless times more expensive than a court consultation!

Old Master Su said, “Yu Niang doesn't lack this bit of silver.”

The village head was stunned.

That's right. How could he have forgotten that Yu Niang had married into the richest village in the surrounding villages-Shallow Water Village? Her husband was the biological grandson of the village head!

Her conditions were naturally not bad.

Thinking of something, the village head said, “But the medical center hasn't opened on the first day of the new year. Even if you have money, I'm afraid we won't be able to hire a doctor!”

Old Master Su said proudly, “Yu Niang's sister-in-law married into town. Her husband's family is quite famous in town. She knows a few doctors.”

The village head couldn't help but sigh. Yu Niang was really lucky.

At this point, it was not convenient for the village head to persuade him further.

Although he trusted Su Daya, he did not dare to say that her medical skills were better than the doctors of Rong'en Hall.

It was naturally best if the Su family could invite a doctor from Rong'en Hall.

The village head stood up and left.

Old Master Su asked Su Jinniang to bring him a box of tea leaves that Yu Niang had brought back.

The village head refused.

Old Master Su said, “I can't let you come for nothing. You remember our Su family in your heart. I understand. Take it. Yu Niang brought back a lot. There's still a lot at home.”

The village head was originally a little puzzled. For example, why did Yu Niang return to her maiden home alone? Where was her husband?

He couldn't ask anymore.

He smiled. “Then it would be disrespectful of me to refuse.”

—

At Little Su's house, Su Daya had just changed the three little fellows' clothes and played three rounds of kissing and hugging. The three little ones were finally satisfied.

Father Su was doing something in the backyard, carving and scraping with a knife.

“Dad, what are you doing?” Su Xiaoxiao walked over.

Old Master Su nodded and said, “Making a few slingshots for Dahu and the others.”

Su Xiaoxiao squatted down beside her father and looked at the wood on the ground. “They're so small. Can they play with slingshots?”

Old Master Su sighed. “Niudan brought a slingshot over this morning. The three of them were extremely envious.”

The daily routine of Niudan and the three little ones was to show off. They would compare everything from food to toys.

Niudan was a seven-year-old child, so he naturally knew how to play better than a two-and-half-year-old kid.

Su Xiaoxiao thought to herself, that her father really spoiled them. She would wait to see who he can cry to when they eventually leave with Wei Ting.

Father Su said, “It's cold outside. Go in and warm yourself by the fire!”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Go in and do it too.”

As Father Su peeled the wood, he said, “The room is too dark.”

It was snowing today. When the door was closed, there was no light. When the door was opened, the people in the room would freeze.

Su Xiaoxiao looked at Father Su's hands which were turning purple from the cold and said, “Dad, let me do it. I'm better at this than you.”

Su Cheng asked, “When did you learn to do this?”

Su Xiaoxiao said without changing her expression, “Didn't you make it for Ergou and me when we were young? I've remembered it all! If you don't believe me, I'll make one for you later!”

Chapter 94

She was serious. She really knew how to do it.

Father Su felt that his daughter's heart ached for him. She didn't want him to starve and freeze outside, so she took over the job.

His fat daughter was really the best fat girl in the world!

Su Xiaoxiao's heart skipped a beat when she saw the tears in her father's eyes!

No way. Was he going to cry again?

She wanted to remind him to bear with it! It was not in line with his persona as a bully!

“Dad! I suddenly remembered something! This is for you!”

Su Xiaoxiao hurriedly took out the bone-strengthening pills that she had obtained!

Old Master Su's tears stopped abruptly. His eyes widened as he looked at the porcelain bottle Su Xiaoxiao handed over and asked, “What is this?”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “It's the medicine you took. I bought it last time and forgot to take it out.”

Old Master Su took it and looked around. “Oh, you changed the bottle this time?”

This kind of porcelain bottle was better sealed. It was given to her by Physician Fu.

“Is it the same as before?” Old Master Su asked.

“It's the same. Take six once a day before bed.” Su Xiaoxiao said, “After finishing this bottle, you should be able to recover.”

If possible, it would be even more foolproof to consolidate the effect with the last bottle.

Hearing Su Xiaoxiao's words, Father Su's eyes subconsciously lit up.

If it was a month ago, he would not believe that his hand would completely recover. However, ever since he witnessed the medicinal effect of this supplement, he began to have confidence in healing his injuries.

He was looking forward to the day when he could grab a 200-pound saber again!

Su Cheng carefully accepted the medicine bottle and suddenly sighed. “Aiya, after a year, you and Ergou will be a year older, and Dad will also be a year older!”

Su Xiaoxiao was speechless. “Dad, you're only 36! You're very young, okay?”

The ancients got married early. Old Master Su married Madam Chen at the age of 18. At the age of 20, he had his first child, the Host.

The Host had just turned 16 a month ago.

Father Su was handsome, tall, and trained. His physique was not bad either. If he had existed in the world of her previous life, he would have been a handsome uncle who could charm thousands of girls!

In ancient times, people labeled themselves in ways that made them feel old.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Dad, don't you realize that you're more energetic?”

Old Master Su stretched his muscles and said thoughtfully, “Now that you mention it, I do feel a little…”

Su Xiaoxiao, ” It's good to sleep early and wake up early. Even the children know!”

Father Su rubbed his head handsomely. “Daughter, do you think I'm getting younger?”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “There are still wrinkles at the corners of your eyes.”

Father Su was speechless.

—

Father Su called Su Xiaoxiao to his room, looking a little mysterious.

“Dad, what are you doing?” Su Xiaoxiao asked.

Old Master Su opened the box and rummaged through it for half a day.

“Ah, I found it! I almost thought I lost it!”

He turned around, sweating. There was an old peachwood box in his hand.

He handed the box to Su Xiaoxiao. “Open it.”

Su Xiaoxiao took it and her hand sank. She said, “The box doesn't look big, but it's quite heavy. The quality is not bad.”

Old Master Su smiled and urged, “Open it quickly!”

“Oh.” Su Xiaoxiao opened the peachwood box that had long been stained with traces of time. A dusty peachwood fragrance assaulted her nose, with a hint of a very cold fragrance.

It was strange and smelled good.

Su Xiaoxiao's gaze landed on the brocade box and saw a jade pendant lying inside.

Madam Li loved to collect jade in her previous life. Although Su Xiaoxiao had never studied jade in detail, she knew a little.

The quality of this jade was very good and could be said to be an emperor-level jade. If it was made into a bracelet, its value would be immeasurable.

Jade had to be raised. Su Xiaoxiao often saw Madam Li soak her jade in water.

Hmph, Madam Li had never even given her a bath!

She was not Madam Li's biological daughter. Jade was!

Her thoughts wandered away and she returned to the jade.

Father Su did not have the mood to take care of the jade. He casually stored it away. The jade pendant was severely dehydrated and had no luster.

Fortunately, her mother had taken good care of the jade. If it was a tender jade, it would have cracked long ago.

“Dad, where did you get this jade pendant? It looks very valuable.”

“An heirloom,” Father Su said. “It's yours from now on.”

Su Xiaoxiao was stunned. “Our family… has heirlooms?”

Chapter 95

Wasn't her father an orphan who grew up eating food from hundreds of families?

Orphans were a popular term. The villagers outside called them beggars and cowherds.

“Now we do!” Old Master Su said.

Su Xiaoxiao was dumbfounded.

Su Xiaoxiao asked, “Dad, how much did you spend on it?”

“I didn't buy it. I probably… picked it up,” Old Master Su recalled.

Su Xiaoxiao was puzzled. “What do you mean by ‘probably'?”

Old Master Su explained, “I don't remember either. Ever since I can remember, I have had this jade pendant on me. It looks like it's worth a few dollars. I thought that if I really couldn't survive anymore, I would pawn it!”

How much was it worth?

Did he have some misunderstanding about a few? If this piece of jade was sold, it could support a few large villages, okay?

What luck did her father have to pick up such a treasure?

Su Xiaoxiao carefully looked at the shape of the jade pendant and said to her father, “Dad, this jade pendant looks like part of a half?”

“Half?” Father Su muttered. “Did I pick up a piece of broken jade?”

Su Xiaoxiao hurriedly shook her head. “What I mean is that it's a pair of pendants. This is the left piece. There should be another piece on the right. When combined, it happens to form a complete shape.”

Father Su said, “I only picked this up.”

Su Xiaoxiao looked at the jade pendant and asked, “Dad, do you remember where you're from?”

Father Su shook his head. “I don't remember.”

He had wandered into Willow Village 30 years ago when there was a famine. At that time, he was only six years old, and his memory was almost blurry.

Su Xiaoxiao had also heard about some things back then. The disaster in Willow Village was more serious than in Apricot Flower Village. Apricot Flower Village was supported by the Su family, and dozens of people in Willow Village had starved to death.

Su Xiaoxiao asked, “Weren't you about to starve to death? Why didn't you exchange it for something to eat?”

Old Master Su thought for a moment. “Perhaps I was young at that time. I didn't expect it.”

Actually, there were a few times when he couldn't go on anymore. He didn't sell this jade pendant and gritted his teeth to survive.

Why didn't he sell it?

He couldn't tell.

….

When Su Xiaoxiao put away the jade pendant and returned to the east room, Wei Ting was also there.

She was about to ask why he was in her room when she remembered that this guy's bed had collapsed and he had officially moved in with her!

Wei Ting was sitting by the bed, appreciating a couplet on the table under the light from the window paper.

Appreciation was Su Xiaoxiao's description after she beautified it, but in fact, this guy's gaze was more like a critical judgment.

“You went through my things!” Su Xiaoxiao said.

Wei Ting said calmly, “It fell to the ground. I just picked it up.”

Then, after a pause, he said, “Who wrote it?”

Su Xiaoxiao said proudly, “A friend! How is it? Is it not worse than what you wrote?”

Even Director Shen wanted to keep Young Master Xiang's calligraphy treasure. It should not be bad!

“Heh.” Wei Ting snorted disdainfully.

“If you don't like it, don't look at it!” Su Xiaoxiao grabbed the couplet, rolled it up, put it back into the brocade box, and put it into the cabinet.

Wei Ting looked at the closed cabinet door, his eyes turning cold.

…

The three little ones could not stay at home and had to run out even in the snow. Su Ergou went to the village to walk the children.

Father Su returned to his room to catch up on his sleep.

Su Xiaoxiao moved a small stool to the backyard, grabbed a knife, and seriously made slingshots for the three little ones.

She knew how to do it, but this knife was a little blunt.

“Here.”

A slender jade-like hand handed her a dagger.

Su Xiaoxiao's gaze followed this exquisite jade-like hand all the way to his peerlessly handsome face. She thought to herself that guy really had no blind spots.

Under the shed, in the shadows, it could be said everything that was illuminated looked ghastly. If one was not careful, he would look like a vegetable, but Wei Ting's look endured the bad lighting with ease.

When he first came, his skin was a light wheat color.

After recuperating at home for a month, other than being called by Father Su to learn how to farm a few times, he basically did not go under the sun. Hence he had developed a trace of fairness.

He was not feminine at all. He was full of heroic spirit and killing intent.

“Thanks.”

Su Xiaoxiao took the dagger.

She had seen Wei Ting wipe this dagger more than once. It looked very sharp and she had been envious for a long time.

She had finally touched it today.

Her first feeling was that it was heavy.

Su Xiaoxiao pulled out the scabbard bit by bit with a sense of occasion.

Wei Ting reminded her calmly, “It's very sharp. Be careful.”

Su Xiaoxiao tilted her head and smiled. “Are you worried about me?”

Chapter 96

Wei Ting chuckled. “I'm afraid that you'll dirty my dagger!”

Su Xiaoxiao tilted her head proudly. “Then you can choose not to give it to me. I don't care. You just care about me!”

Wei Ting ignored her.

Su Xiaoxiao began to peel the tree branches. With a slash, she was stunned.

“Wow! What a fast dagger!”

Could this be the legendary ability to cut iron like mud?

Su Xiaoxiao tried a few more times and was extremely comfortable.

“Wei Ting, what kind of dagger is this?”

“You like it?” Wei Ting asked.

“Yes!” Su Xiaoxiao said honestly.

Wei Ting said indifferently, “Return the token to me and this dagger is for you.”

To hell with it!

So this was his plan!

Su Xiaoxiao was just short of stabbing him.

She thought that he had a conscience and saw that she was struggling to make a slingshot for his sons, so he contributed his dagger to help her.

Ha, she really couldn't think too highly of men!

….

After the three little ones ran out of the house, they began to run in the snow. They were small, so they ran and disappeared.

Su Ergou dug the three little ones out of the thick snow and sighed. “You guys are not even as tall as the snow, but you insist on coming out to play!”

The three of them didn't care and wanted to play!

Suddenly, they were attracted by the cries of a baby.

The three of them looked in the direction of the voice.

“What's wrong?” Su Ergou asked.

Big Tiger said, “Uncle, someone's crying.”

“Really?” Su Ergou said, “I didn't hear it.”

“Yes,” said Er Hu.

“Yes!” Xiao Hu heard it too.

Su Ergou scratched his head. “Did you hear wrongly? Who's crying?”

Two of them grabbed his hand on each side while the third pushed his butt, shoving him toward the Su family.

When he got closer, Su Ergou really heard the cry of a baby.

Su Ergou scratched his head. “What ears do the three of you have? You can hear it from so far away?”

The one crying inside was Su Yuniang's child.

Su Yuniang had suffered a lot. Ever since she gave birth at night, not to mention her abdominal pain, she had no milk.

The child cried loudly from hunger.

Su Yuniang was extremely frustrated. She asked her brother to go to town to find a doctor with the connections of her sister-in-law's family, but he had yet to return.

Madam Zhou went to the Li family's house next door to take a look. She came back and said to Su Yuniang that Madam Zhao had started lactating and there was so much milk that the child could not finish it.

These words were like a knife stabbing into Su Yuniang's heart.

In order to successfully give birth, Su Yuniang intercepted Madam Zhao's midwife. In the end, not only did she give birth to a daughter, but she also ended up like this.

What was going on?

Su Yuniang could not bring herself to beg Madam Zhao.

In the end, Mdm Fang couldn't stand it anymore and carried the child to the Li family.

No matter what Madam Zhao thought of Su Yuniang, the child was innocent. Madam Zhao carried the child over and fed him.

During this period of time, Su Xiaoxiao sent meat to the Li family every few days. Old Li and Madam Qian could not bear to eat it, so they gave it all to Madam Zhao and the two grandchildren. Madam Zhao's body was well-nourished and she was filled with milk.

After eating and drinking her fill, Su Yuniang's daughter finally fell asleep sweetly.

Madam Fang was extremely grateful, but when she thought of Yuniang's actions, she felt a little awkward and embarrassed. “I… I'll bring her over to feed her later.”

Madam Qian entered the house and said, “Leave her here. It's snowing heavily. Aren't children who haven't reached their full term afraid of freezing? You can bring the child back after Yuniang starts lactating.”

Mdm Fang thought that this was the only way.

“I'll get Jinniang to come over later.”

Madam Zhao could help feed him, but it was not good to trouble her to change the diapers.

After Madam Fang left, Madam Qian handed the boiled sugar water egg to her daughter-in-law. “Aren't you angry anymore?”

Madam Zhao shook her head. “I'm not angry anymore. I have to be grateful that Yuniang snatched the midwife away. Otherwise, I would be the one suffering.”

Madam Qian coughed lightly. “You're not allowed to say this outside.”

Madam Zhao smiled and said, “I know, Mom!”

Madam Qian was a good mother-in-law. Madam Zhao really treated her as her biological mother, so she said whatever she wanted with Madam Zhao. She wouldn't do the same with outsiders.

It was not until evening that Su Yuniang's eldest brother finally invited the doctor back.

It was a young doctor in his early twenties.

“Is he reliable at such a young age?” Mdm Fang asked her son softly.

Su Dalang said, “Doctor Lu happened to be going out, so he asked me to get Doctor Zhang.”

The truth was that Yu Niang's connections were not that useful at all. Doctor Lu was too lazy to treat her, so he asked his disciple to come over.

This disciple had yet to graduate and had only learned a little. In addition, Yuniang was a woman, so it was inconvenient for him to treat her illness. He only took her pulse and prescribed the prescription.

Su Dalang rushed to town to get medicine again.

Rong'en Hall did not open on the first day of the new year. Fortunately, when he went to town to look for a doctor, he saw a small medicine shop that was open so he got the medicine there.

Unexpectedly, not only did Su Yuniang not improve after drinking the bowl of medicine, but she also bled profusely. Her chest felt stuffy and she fainted on the spot!

Mdm Fang hugged her unconscious daughter and screamed, “Yu Niang!”

The Su family panicked.

Seeing that his sister had become like this, Su Dalang went forward and grabbed Doctor Zhang's lapel. He said angrily, “You quack! I'll beat you to death!”

Doctor Zhang's face turned pale and he said seriously, “How am I a quack! I'm a doctor of Rong'en Hall! It's obvious that the medicine you took is wrong!”

Su Dalang gritted his teeth and said, “I bought it according to the prescription you gave me!”

Doctor Zhang straightened his neck and said, “Then… then the herbs are not good! Many herbs are overdue or inferior! Eating them is like consuming poison! Where did you get the medicine!”

Su Dalang said, “A doctor with the surname Fu.”

Chapter 97

“Daya! Daya, bad news! Hurry up and follow me to take a look!”

When the village head rushed to the Su family's house, Su Xiaoxiao and Wei Ting were sitting in the backyard making slingshots for the three little babies.

The two of them fought fiercely, but they had a good tacit understanding when it came to working.

If not for the village head's shout, Su Xiaoxiao would have had the illusion that they were really a couple.

“Village Head.” Su Xiaoxiao put down the pulse pressure tube in her hand and stood up.

Wei Ting naturally moved her stool away to prevent her from hitting it. He also picked up the pulse pressure tube that was about to fall to the ground to prevent her from stepping on it.

This series of actions looked ordinary, but it demonstrated an indescribable tacit understanding.

Wei Ting suddenly felt that something was wrong.

Why was he so considerate toward this woman?

He put the stool back where it had been moved and Su Xiaoxiao almost tripped over it!

“Wei Ting!”

Su Xiaoxiao exploded!

Wei Ting said coldly, “Hmph.”

The village head smiled awkwardly and nodded at Wei Ting. “Are the two of you busy?”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Oh, I was bored and made some trinkets for the children. Did something happen to Su Yuniang?”

There was probably no other thing that could make the village head come looking for her in a panic at this time.

The village head explained Su Yuniang's situation. “They're fighting! Someone's going to die!”

It was unknown if he was talking about Su Yuniang's life or Doctor Zhang's.

—

When Su Xiaoxiao and the village head rushed to the Su family, both parties were arguing about Su Yuniang's problem.

“I spent five taels of silver to invite you for a consultation! Is this how you treat my sister!”

“That's because you delayed the treatment time! Moreover, I've already told you clearly! My prescription is not wrong! It's you who got the wrong medicine! Who asked you to buy the medicine from the small shop? Physician Fu? I've never heard of him! Those small shops sell fake medicine! Otherwise, they would mix in other items to save cost! You fell for it yourself and blackmailed me! Are you reasonable!”

“What a good way to absolve yourself of responsibility. Could it be that your Rong'en Hall sells real and good medicine?”

Su Xiaoxiao walked in with a powerful aura and a calm voice.

The Su family was very surprised to see her. They looked at the village head beside her and roughly understood what was going on.

The Su family was unhappy. After such a thing happened, the village head actually called an outsider over to watch the commotion.

When Doctor Zhang saw that it was a fat village girl, he did not hide the disdain in his eyes.

“Where did you come from? Of course, the medicine our Rong'en Hall sells is good! Had you gone to Rong'en Hall to get the medicine today, nothing would have happened!”

Old Master Su frowned and said, “Village Head, why did you bring her here? Didn't I say that there's no need for the Su family to visit?”

The Su family was the light of the righteous path. The other Su family was like evil demons. Old Master Su had always looked down on their family of three.

Su Xiaoxiao didn't care how the original owner dealt with him. She would not put up with his disdain!

Su Xiaoxiao smiled faintly. “If Village Head hadn't come personally, I wouldn't have come even if your Su family knelt down and begged me!”

Old Master Su's expression darkened. “Fatty Su!”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “I'm being honest. A life is at stake. If you don't care about your granddaughter's life and death, you can continue to argue with me!”

“You don't know medicine,” Su Jinniang muttered.

“Bring me the dregs of the medicine that Su Yuniang drank!” Su Xiaoxiao said.

Su Jinniang frowned. “Fatty Su, are you ordering me around?”

“I'll do it, I'll do it!” The village head also knew that it was not a solution to continue arguing. He smelled the medicine and went to the kitchen to bring out the medicine jar that was still hot.

“Whoosh!”

He placed the medicine jar on the table and quickly pinched his cold ear with his reddened fingers.

Su Xiaoxiao bent down and sniffed, frowning.

Su Jinniang said coldly, “You're quite good at pretending.”

Mdm Fang came out of Su Yuniang's room and said to Su Jinniang, “Didn't I ask you to take care of the child in the Li family? Why are you back?”

Su Jin's mother said, “I've discussed it with Aunt Qian. She'll help take care of the child for a while.”

Su Xiaoxiao grabbed the hot medicine jar and poured out the dregs.

“Give me the oil lamp.”

She said.

The village head quickly handed her an oil lamp.

Old Master Su glared at the village head.

The village head coughed lightly.

Su Xiaoxiao wrapped her finger in a handkerchief and pulled at the herbs on the table. She said to Doctor Zhang, “Su Yuniang just gave birth and is weak. You actually prescribed such a strong tonic for her and even used angelica! Angelica is meant for improving blood circulation! Do you have any common sense?”

Doctor Zhang's face turned pale!

This was indeed his prescription, and it had indeed included angelica.

This fat village girl… really knew the Qi Huang technique!

Was there something wrong with this family? There was a doctor in the village, so why did they go to town to invite him?

He had carried the weight of someone's life for nothing!

Su Xiaoxiao stopped arguing with him. “Where's Su Yuniang?”

Mdm Fang was already intimidated by Su Xiaoxiao's aura and subconsciously pointed in.

Su Xiaoxiao drew the curtain and entered the room.

“Fatty Su, you're not allowed to mess with my sister… ”

Su Jinniang followed her in.

Su Xiaoxiao lifted the blanket and took a look. She grabbed Su Yuniang's wrist to take her pulse and touched her forehead with her other hand.

Su Yuniang was really unlucky. First, she intercepted an unreliable midwife, and then she encountered an ignorant quack.

Su Xiaoxiao took out a new set of silver needles from her pouch.

This set of silver needles was originally prepared for Father Su. However, ever since she had the black technology bone-strengthening pills from the pharmacy, Su Xiaoxiao felt that Father Su's hand could recover without acupuncture.

Su Jinniang said coldly, “What are you going to do to my sister? I'm warning you, Fatty Su! This is my house! If you dare to hurt my sister… ”

Noisy!

Su Xiaoxiao pressed her down on the chair and glared at her. “Sit down obediently! Otherwise, I'll beat you to death!”

This was what Fatty Su often said. She was not just saying it casually. Fatty Su really knew how to beat people up.

Su Jinniang was stunned by Su Xiaoxiao's sharp gaze and aura.

When Su Xiaoxiao pricked Su Yuniang's acupoints with silver needles, Su Jinniang wanted to shout, but Su Yuniang miraculously woke up.

Su Yuniang opened her eyes in a daze. “You…”

“Don't move,” Su Xiaoxiao said solemnly. “I'm going to massage your stomach. You might feel a little uncomfortable. Bear with it.”

Her preliminary deduction was that Su Yuniang's contractions were weak and she could not expel the blood clot in her uterus, causing her to bleed non-stop. As for the cramp in her abdomen, it was caused by her stomach discomfort.

It was not a big problem at all. If not for this quack prescribing medicine ignorantly, Su Yuniang would not have fainted.

Su Xiaoxiao massaged Su Yuniang to help with the contractions, which was very effective.

Not long after, Su Yuniang felt much better. She looked at Fatty Su in disbelief. To be honest, if it weren't for the fact that she didn't have the strength, she would have thrown Fatty Su out the moment she touched her.

She said in a daze, “Fatty Su, you…”

Su Xiaoxiao retracted her hand. “Do you remember how I pressed your belly just now? Get your family to massage you every two hours. You don't have to take any medicine for the time being. Keep your diet light and it can relieve your gastrointestinal discomfort. I'll make a prescription for you and you can take your medicine according to it.”

Su Yuniang was so surprised that she could not say a word.

“Do you have a pen and paper at home?” Su Xiaoxiao asked calmly.

Su Yuniang glared at her sister. “Hurry up and get it!”

After being scolded by her sister, Su Jinniang frowned unhappily.

Madam Fang had already entered the room. Like Su Yuniang, she was also shocked by Fatty Su's actions.

However, this was not the time to be shocked. She said to Su Jinniang, “Didn't you hear your sister? Go get it!”

Su Jinniang bit her lip and went unwillingly.

“I heard Yuniang's voice. Is she awake?” Su Dalang pulled Su Jinniang.

“Ask her yourself later!” Su Jinniang shook off her brother's hand with a dark expression and went to the table in the central room to get a brush and ink. She returned to the room and placed them on the table coldly.

Su Xiaoxiao picked up her pen and wrote a prescription.

She said to Su Yuniang, “Your stomach isn't feeling well. You have to eat light food. Don't rush to lactate. You have to take care of your body first.”

When Su Yuniang heard this, her expression froze.

“The prescription is good, and the medicine is also good, but it's not suitable for Su Yuniang's condition,” Su Xiaoxiao said as she glanced at the weak Madam Fang. “Give me your hand.”

“Huh?” Mdm Fang was stunned.

Su Yuniang said, “Mother, she wants to take your pulse!”

“Ah, take my pulse!” Mdm Fang handed her hand to Su Xiaoxiao and smiled awkwardly. “Fatty is so good. You even took my pulse.”

After Su Xiaoxiao finished taking Madam Fang's pulse, she nodded and said seriously, “You have a loss of blood and qi, so you can consume the medicine.”

“Did you hear that? My prescription is a good one… your family can consume it… Ah….”

Outside the house, before Doctor Zhang could finish, he was punched to the ground by Su Dalang.

Su Xiaoxiao couldn't be bothered to ask how things would end between them and Doctor Zhang.

She returned to the bed and looked at Su Yuniang, who was still in great shock. She extended her chubby hand.

Su Yuniang was confused. “What?”

Su Xiaoxiao hooked her finger and said righteously, “The consultation fee! Did I treat you for nothing? I walked from my house to yours. This is considered a consultation! On the first day of the Lunar New Year, the consultation fee will be doubled! Well, you and your mother will get four times the fee!”

Su Yuniang and Madam Fang were stunned.

Chapter 98

Of course, Su Yuniang had to bargain.

In the end, Su Xiaoxiao returned valiantly with the high consultation fee of five taels of silver.

Other than Su Yuniang, the expressions of the Su family were not good.

It had to be known that they had only given Doctor Zhang two taels.

It was originally five taels, but they took back three taels.

Doctor Zhang was a doctor of Rong'en Hall and had also come from town. Who was Fatty Su? She was just a little girl from the village. How could she demand a consultation after taking a few steps?

However, Su Yuniang said, “Isn't my life worth these few taels of silver?”

Su Yuniang paid the consultation fee and did not let the Su family pay for Madam Fang's share.

After a daughter got married, she was no longer considered family. Some accounts were calculated clearly. This made her feel disappointed and helpless. Thinking that Su Xiaoxiao was also married, but there was no barrier between her and her family, Su Yuniang felt envious from the bottom of her heart.

Madam Fang carried a bowl of boiled brown sugar millet porridge into the room. This was cooked according to the prescription left behind by Fatty Su. She did not put too much brown sugar.

Su Yuniang was reading the prescription written by Fatty Su. There were actually only a few words on the prescription, and they was crooked. The cooking method was mainly dictated by Fatty Su.

She seriously suspected that Fatty Su just wanted to legitimately extort the consultation fee.

She married into Shallow Water Village and had a scholar at home. She barely recognized a few words, but she didn't know how to write.

Fatty Su actually knew how to write.

Su Jinniang frowned. The last time Fatty Su read the couplet, the villagers had already seen her in a different light. If the villagers knew that she could write…

How did Fatty Su know how to write? Su Jinniang felt suffocated.

Madam Fang did not have much of a reaction. Fatty Su had honed many abilities, so it was not strange for her to acquire another one.

What really puzzled her was whether Yuniang should drink more brown sugar water after giving birth. However, Fatty Su said that it wasn't good to consume too much sugar.

“Only a spoonful of sugar. Do you think it's bland?” Madam Fang scooped a spoonful and fed it to Su Yuniang.

Su Yuniang took a sip. It tasted alright. “I'll do it myself.”

“Are you really not going to add any sugar?” Madam Fang asked.

“Didn't Fatty say that to only put a spoonful of sugar?” Su Yu'niang lowered her head and drank a bowl of brown sugar millet porridge. It was boiled according to Fatty Su's instructions. It was not that sweet and was very suitable for her current appetite.

Mdm Fang recalled what happened just now and was still in disbelief. “What do you think happened to Fatty? She has changed so much.”

“Didn't they say that she married a good husband?” Su Yuniang handed the empty bowl to her mother and wiped her mouth with a handkerchief.

She recalled the time she had only been married to a “big family” for a few days, but the rules were already different from before.

Su Yuniang said, “She's willing to learn from her husband. What in the world is unchanging?”

Su Jinniang muttered, “Sister, that's not what you said just now…”

Su Yuniang glared at her. “I almost died just now!”

Su Jinniang choked.

In the beginning, Su Yuniang looked down on Fatty Su and refused to let her treat her. It was because Fatty Su had a bad reputation. When she was young, she had even fought with her. There was no doubt that she had lost.

She had experienced Fatty Su's evilness.

However, just now, she had personally experienced Fatty Su's kindness.

Since that girl had really changed her personality and was really capable, she, Su Yu'niang, could let go!

The grudge between her and Fatty Su was over. From now on, she would no longer have any prejudice against Fatty Su.

As for Su Ergou and Father Su, she temporarily retained her original opinion. They were two bullies!

Su Yuniang looked at her sister indifferently. “You were supposed to take care of the child. Why do you keep staying at home?”

Madam Fang sighed. “Forget it. I'll go later. Jinniang will take care of you at home.”

With that, Madam Fang carried the empty bowl out.

Su Jinniang sat down silently by the bed.

“Sis.”

“If you have something to say, say it.”

Su Yuniang was so tired that she wanted to sleep.

Su Jin's mother whispered, “Can you… tell Grandpa not to let me marry Scholar Chen?”

Su Yuniang said, “Why? Is a scholar not worthy of you?”

Su Jin's mother complained, “You don't know how ugly the Chen family… was in the village on New Year's Eve.”

Su Yuniang said coldly, “Even if it's ugly, we have agreed to this marriage!”

Su Jinniang bit her lip. “I don't want to marry so far away. It's… our village is quite good. I can come back more often to show my filial piety to my grandparents.”

Su Yuniang said bluntly, “Su Jinniang, I understand what you're thinking. I advise you to give up! I won't help you!”

Su Jinniang felt wronged. “You're my sister. Why won't you help me?”

Chapter 99

Su Yuniang glanced at her. “I'm afraid of being struck by lightning!”

Su Jinniang clenched her fists.

In the central room, just as the village head was about to leave, he praised Fatty Su from head to toe. Old Master Su remained silent the entire time.

Even if Su Yuniang couldn't see her grandfather's expression, she could guess that her grandfather still didn't like the Su family.

It was understandable that some old people had deep-rooted ideas.

However, she didn't know if it was an illusion, but she vaguely felt that her grandfather seemed to have an inexplicable rejection of the Su family.

—

After Su Xiaoxiao earned her first consultation fee this year, she hummed a tune and returned home leisurely.

The entire family sat in the central room and waited for her. The three little ones were also obedient!

Su Xiaoxiao placed the ingots she had earned on the table.

The three little ones: “Wow!”

What a huge sum of money!

Su Cheng widened his eyes. “Daughter, did you extort a big one?”

“No!” Su Xiaoxiao had a serious expression. “It's the consultation fee! The Su family gave it to me! We agreed that our family wouldn't extort money anymore! How could I still extort money?”

Su Ergou asked, “Sister, how did you treat Su Yuniang?”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Acupuncture, physiotherapy, food therapy.”

Wei Ting said, “Speak human language.”

Su Xiaoxiao spread her hands. “I just pricked her with silver needles and pressed her stomach a few times. Then, I reminded her to eat more food that is easy to digest.”

Su Cheng, Su Ergou and Wei Ting were dumbfounded.

Was that not extorting five taels of silver?

At this moment, Xiaohu walked over and covered his butt. He said to Su Xiaoxiao with an aggrieved expression, “Mom, my butt hurts.”

Su Xiaoxiao carried him onto her lap. “Did you poop today?”

Xiaohu shook his head.

Su Xiaoxiao gently opened his mouth and looked at his gums.

Yes, he was getting heaty.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Did you secretly eat peanut butter again?”

Among the three little fellows, Xiaohu was the most gluttonous.

Xiao Hu blinked cutely and slid down Su Xiaoxiao's leg. “My butt, it doesn't hurt anymore.”

It would be strange if it didn't hurt.

Su Xiaoxiao went to the kitchen to cook a bowl of Chameleon Grass tea for Xiaohu.

The Chameleon Grass was also called Fractured Ears in modern times. It was sent by Shen Chuan on the day of the New Year. After plucking its leaves, it would be the same as the Fractured Ears she had eaten in her previous life.

She had prepared it twice, but unfortunately, her family was not used to it. Xiaohu was not used to drinking it either and stuck out his tongue in disdain.

His big grape-like eyes darted around as he raised his small hand and pointed out, “Mom, Grandpa called me.”

With that, he put down the small bowl in his hand and slipped away!

Su Xiaoxiao was both angry and amused. She drank the Chameleon tea that Xiao Hu had not finished.

—

When Su Xiaoxiao returned to her room, Wei Ting was already in the room. He had just taken off his cotton clothes and looked like he was preparing to go to bed.

He did not have overly exaggerated muscles on his body, but his tight muscles and strong waist all highlighted his top-notch figure.

Su Xiaoxiao's gaze lingered on him for a while, satisfying the infatuated instincts of this body before going to do her own thing.

She brought over a basin of clear water and carefully placed the jade pendant that Father Su had given her.

Wei Ting subconsciously took a look.

Su Xiaoxiao caught it.

Su Xiaoxiao showed off. “Our family heirloom!”

Wei Ting looked up at the barren house as if to say, “With your family's conditions, can there be an heirloom?”

Su Xiaoxiao brought the basin over. “Hmph, I'll broaden your horizons! Here!”

Wei Ting only glanced at it and recognized it as a piece of real jade.

“This is half of a set,” he said.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Impressive, you know your stuff!”

Wei Ting said indifferently, “It's not rare.”

What was rare was the jade material. The family heirloom this girl had was really a high-grade jade.

“Did you rob it?” Wei Ting said.

Su Xiaoxiao said righteously, “I already said it's an heirloom! It's passed down from generation to generation!”

This kind of jade was extremely rare on the market. If it was really inherited, how illustrious would the family be?

Wei Ting naturally did not believe her, but he did not take a piece of jade to heart.

He was more concerned about his token. He had searched the east room inside and out, but there was no sign of the token.

Where exactly did this girl hide the token?

“Wei Ting! You touched my undergarments!” Su Xiaoxiao was about to take a shower when she opened the closet and realized something.

Wei Ting said without changing his expression, “I didn't.”

Su Xiaoxiao grabbed her undergarment and turned to glare at him fiercely. “The flowers in my undergarment were facing south! They're facing north now!”

“You remembered wrongly.” Wei Ting's eyelashes trembled slightly. He lay flat under the blanket and said extremely seriously, “I didn't if I said so.”

Su Xiaoxiao narrowed her eyes and strode over. She reached out and touched his chest!

Wei Ting was shocked. “You touched me?”

“I didn't!”

Su Xiaoxiao smiled evilly and said, “I didn't if I said so!”

….

Unknowingly, more than half of the Spring Festival had passed.

Su Xiaoxiao's business would open after the New Year, but she could not really wait until the New Year was over before doing anything. Many things had to be prepared in advance.

On the tenth day of the new year, Little Wu brought Liu Ping to her door.

It was Su Xiaoxiao who called them over to discuss work. Initially, Su Xiaoxiao was a little worried that it would arouse disgust if she asked someone to do things before the New Year.

Little did she know that the couple was extremely happy about it.

Ever since they split up, they were much more relaxed than before. At the same time, they were much free.

It did not feel good to be bored. When they heard that they were going to start work, the two of them were extremely enthusiastic.

Su Xiaoxiao invited them into the central room and served them snacks.

This was the first time Liu Ping went to the Su family. Although he had heard from Little Wu that the Su family had changed, he still felt a little uneasy.

“Brother Liu, have some tea.” Su Xiaoxiao poured a cup of hot tea for him.

“Hey, hey, hey, don't trouble yourself!” He stood up and took it with both hands.

Su Xiaoxiao smiled. “Brother Liu, you don't have to be so polite. You have to come often in the future.”

“Ah, yes, yes.” Liu Ping sat down awkwardly and took a sip of tea nervously. It was so hot that his soul left his body!

“Daya.” Madam Wu looked at Su Xiaoxiao without blinking. “Have you lost weight?”

Su Xiaoxiao blinked. “You can tell?”

Madam Wu nodded and looked at Su Xiaoxiao. “Your face… seems to have shrunk.”

It was not that her face had seemed to have shrunk. It really did!

After the mistake last time, Su Xiaoxiao found an opportunity to weigh herself again. After removing her clothes, it was 180 pounds!

She had lost a total of 20 pounds!

However, her foundation was too big. In addition, she had lost a lot of weight in the early stages, so the change in her appearance was not too big at present. Wei Ting was the first to notice that she had lost weight, and Little Wu was the second.

“You look better too. Your face…” At this point, Madam Wu actually mustered her courage and reached out to pinch Su Xiaoxiao's face.

This frightened Liu Ping!

In his internal dialogue, he was saying, “Wife! Let's not be stupid! You're pinching the little bully of the Su family! If she slaps us both, the two of us would fall face flat!”

Madam Wu muttered, “It seems to be much more delicate.”

It was not that Madam Wu had pinched her before, but that Su Xiaoxiao's skin was visibly rough in the past and her skin color was uneven.

Su Xiaoxiao had looked in the mirror and felt that she was a fat beauty. That was because, in ancient times, there were only bronze mirrors or water vats. How could one tell her skin color?

Her skin had indeed become delicate. She could feel it when she washed her face every day.

A standard diet with less sugar and oil could improve the condition of the skin to a certain extent, but it was not possible to transform it to this degree.

Could it be that… the multivitamins in the pharmacy had hidden effects?

Chapter 100

After that, she tried to enter the pharmacy a few times but failed. She seriously suspected that the pharmacy was trembling with anger after she fleeced it the last time.

Wei Ting's token was still inside.

After the last time, she realized that the token might be a hot potato. Whoever took it would be unlucky. Unfortunately, she could not take it out now…

Liu Ping now treated Fatty Su as his benefactor. When he found out that he was coming over today, he specially went to the pond at the back of the mountain to catch a few wild carp.

The biggest one was more than a catty, and the smallest one was half a catty.

To be able to catch such fat carp in the winter, Liu Ping was indeed capable.

“Fish.” The three little ones squatted in the backyard and looked at the fish in the basin. The Meizi sisters were also there.

Su Ergou teased them. “Isn't the little fish cute?”

“Cute,” Little Meizi said.

Dahu slurped. “Braised.”

Erhu said, “Fried.”

Xiaohu said, “Stewed soup.”

Little Meizi exclaimed, “My three younger brothers are so scary!”

The adults continued to talk in the central room.

“I haven't seen Uncle and Mr. Wei,” Liu Ping said.

Since he had come to visit, he had to greet the two of them. He was a little silly, but he still understood the ways of the world.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Oh, my father and Wei Ting went to the fields to pick vegetables.”

Liu Ping sighed inwardly. This family had changed so much. Even the bully boss, Father Su, had gone to the fields to pick vegetables.

Su Xiaoxiao continued, “I called you here today to discuss work.”

Liu Ping hurriedly said, “Meizi's mother told me about it. I can do anything! Really!”

Su Xiaoxiao was amused. “Alright, then I'll tell you what business we have now. Sister Wu should have mentioned the braised meat business and snack business to you.”

Liu Ping said, “Ah, She mentioned it before. She said that your food is especially delicious. I tried it too… It's indeed delicious!”

The Su family had given them fried meatballs and snacks during the new year. There was also cured meat, braised meat, and snacks.

He was definitely not saying this to flatter Fatty Su. He really felt that the food was especially delicious!

It could be seen that Liu Ping was still a little nervous for the first time in a bully's house.

There was no hurry. After interacting with her more in the future, he would slowly adapt.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “After the new year, the braised meat and snacks business will continue. In addition, there will be a salted egg business.”

“Salted eggs?”

Madam Wu whispered, “The duck egg I gave you! You said the egg yolk was delicious!”

“Ahhh! That!” Liu Ping looked at Fatty Su in admiration. “Daya, you can even make duck eggs like that. You're too capable!”

Who said that Liu Ping was naive? Wasn't he quite savvy when he complimented people?

Su Xiaoxiao smiled and said, “Everyone has their own abilities but in different ways. Currently, our business is in the beginning stages. We don't have enough manpower, so we have to do various things. But Brother Liu, don't worry. I won't treat you badly.”

Liu Ping said solemnly, “Daya, you're treating us like outsiders. You've helped us so much. If it weren't for you, not to mention splitting up, we would have been scolded to death by the villagers. With just a word from you, I, Liu Ping, can even smear my head on the ground!”

Su Xiaoxiao asked, “Do you mean to say you would go through all sorts of trials for me?”

Liu Ping was stunned. “Ah, I can also be your disciple!”

Su Xiaoxiao laughed.

Why was Liu Ping so funny?

Regarding the division of labor, Su Xiaoxiao already had a clear plan in her heart. Little Wu was still in charge of the previous work. The difference was that she was separated from the Liu family and did not have to hide anymore. The working hours could be lengthened.

Of course, it was within a reasonable time. She would not squeeze her employees dry.

After the working hours were extended, the production could keep up with the demand. Be it the braised meat business, the snack business, or even the supply to Jin Ji, it would be much easier than before.

Liu Ping's main mission was the transportation of products.

If she did well, she could start her own logistics in the future.

Business in a small town could not satisfy her. Her goal was the entire Qingzhou and even the entire Great Zhou!

Hmm… It was too early to brag. She had to resolve the current problem first.

“There will be a lot of goods to transport in the future, so we need a means of transportation,” Su Xiaoxiao said.

“You mean the ox cart?” Liu Ping asked.

Su Xiaoxiao shook her head. “The ox cart is too slow.”

It would be dark before two deliveries can be made.

Liu Ping had seen many types of carts when he was working hard outside. He thought for a moment and said, “The faster ones are the donkey cart and mule cart. A carriage is too expensive.”

Su Xiaoxiao didn't consider the carriage for the time being.

Including the consultation fees she had earned, although she had a considerable sum of silver, she roughly understood the price of horses. A medium-sized Southwestern horse would be sold for between 70 and 80 taels.

A horse alone could empty her fanny pack, let alone a cart.

“I know how to make a handcart.” Liu Ping scratched his head. “I used to work as a carpenter for a few years.”

Su Xiaoxiao's eyes lit up. She had found a treasure!

Liu Ping continued, “Today is the tenth day. The docks open early. There's a horse market there. Shall I ask around?”

Su Xiaoxiao was surprised. “Is there a dock in our town?”

Liu Ping said, “It's from the neighboring town. It belongs to the government relay station and is adjacent to our town. If we follow the official road, it's not far. If we're fast, we can arrive in more than an hour.”

It was no wonder that the city opened early.

Strictly speaking, the relay station was not closed. There were also soldiers on duty on New Year's Eve, in case of emergency military intelligence and danger everywhere.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “I'll go with you.”

Since she had nothing to do at home, she might as well go to the ancient horse market.

“Mother!”

The three little ones clattered over.

During this period of time, Su Xiaoxiao had been at home. The three little ones were used to her company and were even more clingy to her. They could not leave her for a moment.

“Dahu wants to go.”

“Erhu will go too.”

“And Xiaohu.”

Faced with three little fellows who would wheedle and act cute for no reason, Su Xiaoxiao could not do justice to her training in her previous life to be cold and brutal.

“It's a long, long walk.” She tried to scare them off.

Xiaohu stretched out his small hand and said seriously, “I'm not afraid. I can walk. I can walk.”

Su Xiaoxiao chuckled.

Madam Wu reminded her husband, “Go and borrow Uncle Li's ox cart.”

Liu Ping glanced at Su Xiaoxiao and replied, “Hey, okay! I'll go now!”

When Old Li heard that Su Xiaoxiao was going to town, he pulled out his ox cart without a word.

Liu Ping was about to pay when Old Li glared at him. “What are you doing? Why would I need you to pay for my ox cart!”

Liu Ping smiled awkwardly and pulled the ox cart away.

“Sister! I'll go too!” Su Ergou said.

Su Xiaoxiao waved her chubby hand. “Alright, get on the ox cart!”

Madam Wu wouldn't go to town. She would stay to pickle the salted eggs.

The family left valiantly.

Su Xiaoxiao walked. She wanted to lose weight.

The villagers were not too surprised to see Liu Ping driving Old Li's ox cart out with the Su family.

They understood that Liu Ping owed Fatty Su a debt, causing the couple to sell themselves as slaves. The news had long spread throughout the village.

Along with this was the news of Fatty Su delivering Madam Zhao's child on New Year's Eve.

Su Xiaoxiao didn't go to the village to gossip. Otherwise, she would know how much of a commotion she had caused.

It was fine if she suddenly changed her personality, but she even turned over a new leaf and started a business.

It was fine if she was doing business, but she was actually a midwife in the village at such a young age!

“Midwife? Fatty doesn't just know how to deliver babies! Have you heard about Yu Niang? After she gave birth, she almost went to see the King of Hell! It was Fatty Su who pulled her back from the gates of hell!”

“Really? Are you kidding me!”

“If you don't believe me, go ask Old Su yourself!”

If someone really came to ask, although the Su family did not want to remember Fatty Su's credit, Su Yuniang was honest and admitted that it was Fatty Su who cured her.

For a moment, Fatty Su became famous in the village!

Chapter 101

This time, it was not a bad reputation.

The villagers were very curious. Did Fatty Su receive guidance from an expert?

Could this be the legendary enlightenment?

They heard that she fell on her wedding day…

The aunties in the village started wondering if they should go back and throw their children…

Su Xiaoxiao didn't know what the villagers were thinking. She openly accepted the gazes of the villagers.

It was mainly because she was used to it. The original owner had received too many strange gazes since she was young. She wouldn't care, nor would she distinguish them carefully.

If she looked carefully today, she would realize that everyone was looking at her differently from before.

It was not only because there was less malice, but they were also unconsciously attracted by her new appearance.

She was still the same person. She was still very fat, but for some reason, the villagers felt that Fatty Su looked much more pleasing to the eye.

It seemed as if… she had become fair. The dazzling sunlight above her head was reflected on her supple face, and her skin was so tender and supple.

In addition, a few sharp-eyed aunties realized that her face was a little different. In the past, her face looked like a big round pancake. Now, there were some lines on her lower jaw. She had a cute round face!

“Fat Lass… looks better.”

Madam Fang, who was drying clothes at Old Su's house, said.

Su Jinniang spread out her clothes and said in a low voice, “She's so fat. What's so good about her?”

In the room, Su Yuniang continued leisurely, “Don't say that. Even though she's fat, her facial features are really not bad. If she slims down, she would be much more beautiful than you!”

Su Jinniang was so angry that she threw the clothes heavily on the clothesline!

The snow had not fallen for a few days. Today, the weather was clear and the wind was not strong. It was warm sitting on the ox cart. The three little ones narrowed their eyes in enjoyment and were extremely arrogant!

Liu Ping looked at their happy faces and knew that they were doing extremely well in the Su family.

They were both stepmothers. But while Big Wu was mean, Fatty Su, who was always regarded as a bully, was more like the triplets' biological mother.

Thinking of this, Liu Ping subconsciously revealed an envious gaze.

Su Xiaoxiao happened to turn around and met Liu Ping's gaze.

Liu Ping's heart skipped a beat, while Su Xiaoxiao narrowed her eyes. Why did she feel that he want to be her son?

….

Two hours later, the three adults and three small children arrived at the horse market Liu Ping mentioned.

Although it was called a horse market, it was actually a few old sheds built by the docks. There was some livestock waiting to be sold inside.

It was only the tenth day of the lunar new year, but there were already many people going to the horse market.

The probability of people turning their heads to do a doubletake of the fat village girl and the little packrats was 100%. All the pedestrians looked at them.

Su Xiaoxiao said to the three little ones on the ox cart, “Watch Uncle closely. Don't let him get lost, understand?”

The three little ones nodded seriously and grabbed Su Ergou's sleeve. They would definitely keep an eye on Uncle!

Liu Ping said to Su Xiaoxiao, “The largest shed is for the government's post-horse. Other than the post-horse, you can choose anything else.”

The six of them walked around the horse market. To be honest, other than the officials' fat and strong horses, the rest were either old horses or sick horses. The price was ridiculously expensive.

“50 taels? This is an old horse!” Liu Ping looked at the horse dealer in disbelief. “Don't bully me for not knowing the market. I've worked here for two years. This kind of old horse is usually only sold for 20 to 30 taels.”

The dealer said slowly, “There's a rumor that there's going to be a war in the southwest. Horses are in short supply. This horse is a little old and can pull goods. If you think it's expensive, the military camp will drag it away on another day and you won't be able to buy it even if you want to! If you really want it, 45 taels, no less!”

Su Xiaoxiao shook her head and left with Liu Ping.

She did not care if the news was accurate or not. She did not intend to spend all her assets to buy an old horse that would only last a few years.

An old dealer diagonally opposite shouted at Su Xiaoxiao, “Miss! Are you hauling goods or traveling? If you're hauling goods, look at the mules! I have high-quality mules here. They eat little and are strong. There are people between the ages of four and ten!”

Liu Ping said, “Nonsense! Horse mules eat a lot! Donkey mules have a small appetite!”

Mules were the descendants of horses and donkeys. A horse mule was born of a female horse and was closer to a horse. A donkey mule was born of a female donkey and was closer to a donkey.

The advantages of donkey mules were that they had a small appetite, strong endurance, and long lifespan. They could be used until they were about 20 years old.

On the other hand, the horse mule was strong, fast, and smarter. Its shortcoming was that it had a bad temper and was not easy to tame. Its lifespan was also shorter than that of a mule. It would lose its ability to be used when it was about 15 years old.

Chapter 102

“Generally speaking, everyone is still willing to buy horse mules. They're capable and stronger than horses, and they're not as difficult to raise as horses. Although they eat more than donkey mules, they eat less than horses.”

Liu Ping continued, “The price of young and strong horse mules is usually five to ten taels. The most expensive one is not more than fifteen taels. As for donkey mules, it's about three to eight taels. The market is different everywhere. This is the price we have here. Some mules are not worth much.”

Su Xiaoxiao felt that she had hired the right person. Liu Ping had made up for her lack of knowledge. Otherwise, she would be choosing blindly.

“Liu Ping!”

A short but very muscular man in his early thirties walked towards the two of them.

Liu Ping took a look. “Brother Hai!”

He said to Su Xiaoxiao, “I used to work for him. He's a foreman here.”

Su Xiaoxiao nodded.

Brother Hai came to the two of them and patted Liu Ping's shoulder with a smile. “It's been two years since we last met. Where have you been? This is… ”

“My boss.” Liu Ping introduced Su Xiaoxiao.

Hearing that this young girl dressed like a village girl was actually Liu Ping's boss, Brother Hai was obviously surprised.

“My surname is Su.” Su Xiaoxiao.

The three little ones couldn't sit still on the ox cart and pulled Su Ergou around. Now, the four of them weren't beside them.

The other party smiled and said, “So it's Miss Su. Sorry, my surname is Huang. Miss Su, just call me Haizi.”

Su Xiaoxiao smiled. “If you don't mind, I'll call you Brother Hai too?”

Huang Hai smiled and said, “Alright, alright!”

He looked at Liu Ping again. “I just accepted a big job and was about to ask around about you. I wanted to ask you to come back and work for me, but it looks like I was late.”

Liu Ping worked hard and did not complain. Every foreman liked him.

Liu Ping smiled innocently.

Huang Hai did not make things difficult for him and said gently, “I saw that you seemed to be choosing livestock just now. Are you using them yourself? Are you pulling goods or people?”

“Mainly to haul goods,” Su Xiaoxiao said.

Huang Hai looked around and said, “The good stuff is inside. Follow me!”

He turned and led the way.

Liu Ping leaned over and whispered, “Brother Hai is quite reliable. Why don't we go take a look?”

Su Xiaoxiao: “Okay.”

The two of them followed Huang Hai to a shed at the side. The seller was the old dealer just now.

Huang Hai said, “Uncle Yang, we're on the same side.”

The old dealer glanced at the two of them. “Horse mule or donkey mule?”

“Horse mule.” Su Xiaoxiao.

The old dealer left for a while. When he returned, he brought with him a fat and strong horse mule.

“High-grade horse mule, 20 taels, no bargaining!”

This was a four-year-old mule. Be it age or physical fitness, there was nothing to criticize about it.

Huang Hai smiled and said, “Uncle Yang, 20 taels is too expensive! I told you we're on the same side!”

The old dealer snorted. “If it's not someone you brought, I won't sell it for less than 25 taels!”

Huang Hai thought for a moment and said to Su Xiaoxiao and Liu Ping, “Recently, the southwest hasn't been peaceful. There are rumors that there's going to be war everywhere, and the price of livestock has increased a lot. In the past, a high-grade horse mule was only sold for ten to eighteen taels, and the most expensive one was only fifteen taels. Why don't you wait for a few days? I don't think there will be a war in the southwest. After the situation passes, perhaps the price of livestock will drop.”

But who could guarantee how long the situation would last?

Su Xiaoxiao was waiting to use it. Every day that was delayed meant one less day of business.

Su Xiaoxiao looked at the old dealer and said, “5 taels.”

Huang Hai choked!

She really dared to slash prices!

Other people would slash prices by a fraction but there was not even a fraction left after she slashed!

The old dealer was so angry that he almost grabbed the broom to chase Su Xiaoxiao out!

“Who did you bring? Are you sincerely buying livestock!” The old dealer scolded Huang Hai.

What could Huang Hai do? He had lived for more than 30 years, but this was the first time he had seen such a strange person.

The old dealer said angrily, “23 taels! Not a penny less… Or I'm not selling!”

Su Xiaoxiao extended a chubby hand. “5 taels.”

The old dealer was speechless.

He wanted to grab his knife!

Huang Hai looked at Liu Ping as if he was asking, “What kind of employer are you working for? Are you sure you don't regret it? It's not too late to come under my wings…”

Liu Ping's forehead was also covered in a cold sweat.

As expected of the little bully of Apricot Flower Village. This price…

He was afraid that Fatty Su would hit him with a brick after failing to bargain.

The old dealer trembled. “20, 20 taels!”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “5 taels.”

The old dealer pointed with his finger. “5 taels can only buy you a donkey!”

Chapter 103

Su Xiaoxiao spread her hands and said, “Five taels is enough to buy a cow in our countryside. What donkey is this? An immortal donkey? You're selling it for 5 taels!”

The old dealer covered his chest and looked at Huang Hai as if to say, “Huang, if you bring such a customer over again, I'll cut ties with you!”

Huang Hai cleared his throat and smiled awkwardly. “Uncle Yang, why don't you give me some face? This mule will be …”

Before he could finish, Su Xiaoxiao flipped her chubby hand. “10 taels!”

The old dealer was furious. “15 taels!”

Huang Hai said quietly, “I was preparing to cut to 18 taels.”

The old dealer regretted it after saying that. What had he just said? 15 taels? Had he been angered to confusion by this fat girl?

Su Xiaoxiao chuckled and prepared to pay.

But at this moment, a change occurred.

The three little ones ran over and grabbed her sleeve. “Mom.”

Huang Hai and the old dealer were dumbfounded.

Were this little girl's sons already so old?

The three little ones only pulled her to another shed. It was the official's horse shed.

The three of them pointed at a weak newborn foal inside.

It was a premature foal. It had been born two days ago. The mare had been seriously injured and had died not long after giving birth.

The foal had nothing to eat and had been hungry for two days. It could not even stand steadily.

If this continued, it would starve to death in a few days.

A foal could not survive without a mare, so the soldiers at the courier station did not spend much effort to take care of it.

The three of them looked at the foal that had lost its mother with deep sympathy.

“Do you want that foal?” Su Xiaoxiao asked.

The three of them nodded.

Su Xiaoxiao touched their little heads. They were only two and a half years old and ignorant. Perhaps even they did not even understand why they felt so much sympathy for a small lonely horse.

The three little ones stared unblinkingly at the unattended foal.

Liu Ping whispered, “No, you don't have to spoil the children like this. Just buy them a couple of sweets later.”

“Do you really want to bring it home?” Su Xiaoxiao confirmed with the three of them again.

The three of them nodded seriously.

The official horse of the courier station was not for sale, even if it was only a small foal. However, this foal was in a special situation. The mare was dead, and there was no other mare to feed it after giving birth.

Huang Hai stepped forward to negotiate with the soldiers. “If you keep it, it will be dead. Can you just treat it as dead?”

The officer said, “No, it's against the rules.”

Huang Hai said, “Does it conform to the rules after it dies? Why are you so rigid?”

In the end, Huang Hai found the old postman who had once owed him a favor and got someone to make an exception. He sold it to Su Xiaoxiao at the price of a retired old horse.

He did help, but he couldn't bear to see what would happen.

They were paying forty taels of silver on a newborn foal that may die anytime.

This was simply throwing the money away!

Su Xiaoxiao asked Su Ergou to get some hay from the courier station and put it on the ox cart. She carried the weak foal up.

Because she had bought a foal, she only had five taels of silver left.

She silently went to the old dealer's horse shed. “Um, are you still selling your donkey?”

The old dealer was speechless.

“Five taels!”

Su Xiaoxiao emptied her purse. “I only have three taels left.”

Fifteen minutes later.

The group of six left the horse market with a sickly foal and a skinny donkey.

Liu Ping never dreamed that they could buy such animals.

They had completely deviated from their original plan!

Liu Ping comforted himself as he drove the ox cart. “A donkey… A donkey is good. It eats little and has strong endurance. It can pull mills, haul goods and its temperament is gentle…”

As soon as he finished speaking, the docile donkey beside him kicked its hind legs and the sign at the entrance of the Horse City collapsed instantly!

Liu Ping did not know what else to say.

Chapter 104

The six of them returned to the village.

A large group of villagers surrounded the village entrance. This scene shocked Liu Ping, who thought that something big had happened in the village.

He was about to jump off the ox cart and ask someone when the villagers swarmed around him.

Su Ergou rubbed his sleepy eyes.

Hmm? What was going on? Was there a fight?

Aunt Wu asked, “Fatty, I heard that you went to town to buy a horse. Where is the horse you bought?

Su Xiaoxiao wondered,” Eh? When did I say that?”

She turned to look at Su Ergou.

Su Ergou shook his head like a rattle drum; his cheeks were trembling!

She looked at the three little ones.

The three little ones also shook their heads!

They had failed to show off!

She looked at Liu Ping again!

Liu Ping was shocked. “No, no. I went to borrow Old Li's ox cart and only said that I wanted to go to town. I didn't say what it was for!”

At this moment, Father Su walked over with his hands behind his back.

“Make way, make way, make way,” he said in a commanding tone.

The villagers made way.

When Father Su saw Su Xiaoxiao beside the ox cart, he instantly smiled happily.

He hadn't seen her fat daughter for a day. He really missed her!

He raised his eyebrows and said, “Daughter! Where's the horse you bought? Show it to broaden the horizons of the villagers!”

Su Xiaoxiao was dumbfounded.

The matter had to start with Father Su and Wei Ting returning home after picking vegetables. Su Xiaoxiao brought her brother and the three little ones out while Madam Wu marinated the salted eggs in the backyard.

When Father Su asked where his daughter went, Madam Wu's original words were, “Daya wanted to buy livestock and went to the horse market in the neighboring town with Liu Ping. Ergou and the children also went.”

What Father Su heard was: My daughter… wants to buy… a horse.

He chose to filter the rest of the words!

Such an important joyous occasion naturally had to be shown off. It seemed there was a reason why the children at home liked to show off. She had found the source. Su Xiaoxiao didn't know what to say.

“Aiya! Whose donkey is this? It can't be yours, right, Fatty? Didn't you go to buy a horse? Did you get tricked?”

It was Madam Zhou.

“Don't tell me Fatty can't even tell a horse from a donkey?”

“I can't say for sure… Fatty used to…”

“Ahem!”

Old Master Su cleared his throat heavily. Only then did everyone remember that they were facing the three tyrants of the Su family. Recently, the three tyrants of the Su family rarely came out to extort money, making them relax their vigilance gradually.

The villagers stopped talking, but their eyes were still filled with surprise.

Father Su quickly walked to Su Xiaoxiao's side and asked in a low voice, “Daughter, did you really treat a donkey as a horse?”

Su Xiaoxiao said frankly, “No, I know it's a donkey.”

Father Su was stunned. “Weren't you going to buy a horse? Why did you buy a donkey?”

“Horse? Yes, there is one.” Su Xiaoxiao said.

Old Master Su's eyes lit up!

He raised his chin proudly at the villagers. “Did you hear that? My daughter said it! She bought a horse!”

With that, he looked at Su Xiaoxiao. “Daughter, where's the horse?”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Here.”

Father Su asked, “Where?”

The villagers also craned their necks and kept looking behind the ox cart.

Su Xiaoxiao looked at the three cute little ones and reached out to gently remove the big blanket that they were surrounding.

Under the blanket was a dying foal. Its eyes seemed to be unable to focus.

Father Su was dumbfounded!

Indeed, it confirmed a saying: You will be struck by lightning if you act tough!

Madam Zhou was amused. “This is a newborn horse calf, right? Aiyo, Fat Lass, why did you buy this to play with? You can't keep it alive!”

Aunt Wu also shook her head and sighed. “Yes, it looks like it's about to collapse.”

The daughter-in-law of the Sun family said, “Fatty, after all this time, you're still a fool! This is at least 10 taels of silver!”

Su Ergou said, “10 taels! Who are you looking down on? My sister spent 40 taels!”

“With forty taels… You bought a little horse calf that can't be kept alive?” Madam Zhou was about to faint from laughter.

She was doing business, delivering babies, and treating illnesses. The villagers were all saying that Fatty Su was capable, but looking at her today, she was clearly still that stupid girl who knew nothing!

The villagers had similar thoughts as Madam Zhou. They also felt that Fatty Su had wasted her money.

The Su family, which had been holding their heads high in the morning, had once again become the laughingstock of the village.

Madam Wu walked over silently and secretly pinched Liu Ping. She said in a low voice, “How did you help Daya choose a horse? Why did you choose a horse calf?”

Liu Ping cried out in his heart that he had been wronged. He had tried to persuade her, but Daya insisted on buying it. There was nothing he could do, right?

After all, he had no say over Daya.

Su Xiaoxiao said to Madam Zhou, “Aunt Zhou, don't worry. I promise to fatten it up!”

Just because others couldn't raise a young horse didn't mean that she couldn't either!

If she didn't even have this bit of confidence, how could she have paid for it?

“Alright, alright, disperse, disperse!” Father Su dispersed the villagers.

The villagers left, but none of them believed that Su Xiaoxiao could raise the horse calf.

—

After Madam Zhou returned, the first thing she did was gossip about Fatty Su's stupid actions to Madam Fang and her daughters.

A few women sat in Su Yuniang's room.

Su Yuniang was feeding the child.

After recuperating according to Fatty Su's prescription for a few days, her vitality had recovered a lot, and she had milk, but not much.

During the day, she would carry it to Old Li's house and ask Madam Zhao to help feed it a few times. At night, she would feed it herself.

Su Jinniang said, “In this weather, foals can't be raised alive. Unfortunately, that's 40 taels of silver.”

Although she said it was a pity, her tone was clearly gloating.

“She's only been in business for a month and she's already earning forty taels…” Madam Fang's focus was not on the horse.

It was rare for Su Yuniang not to speak up for Fatty Su because even she thought that Fatty Su had made a loss.

Adult horses were expensive, easily costing 70 to 80 taels of silver. This was only an ordinary breed. Good horses were hard to come by.

It seemed cheap to buy a horse for 40 taels, but it was a foal that could not be raised.

Madam Zhou could not hide her mockery and added insult to injury. “She said that she wanted to buy it to pull the goods! I think she probably lost all her capital! A girl should stay at home! Who's like her, who shows her face all day long and even learns to do business like a man? Now, she's lost everything!”

Su Yuniang frowned.

“Mom,” she said. “I'm not feeling well. I want to sleep.”

Mdm Fang said, “Ah, okay. Then we'll go out first.”

—

Liu Ping drove the ox cart to Su Xiaoxiao's house.

Old Li and the village head also came over.

The two of them did not watch the commotion at the village entrance mainly because they cared about Su Xiaoxiao. However, now that there was no one else around, there were some things that they had to say.

“Daya, why did you buy a foal?” The village head asked.

The three little ones raised their heads and looked at Su Xiaoxiao.

Chapter 105

They were the ones who wanted to bring the foal home, but along the way, everyone pointed at it. They felt like they had done something wrong.

“Mom.”

The three of them looked at one another uneasily.

Su Xiaoxiao patted the three of them on the head. “Be good. The horse is very good. Mom likes it very much.”

After a pause, Su Xiaoxiao felt that this might not be enough and added.

“I like the foal as much as I like you.”

The three of them hurriedly shook their heads! She had to like Dahu, Erhu, and Xiaohu the most!

Su Xiaoxiao understood and burst out laughing. “Okay, okay, okay. I like Dahu, Erhu, and Xiaohu the most.”

As she spoke, she carried the three of them down one by one. “Go find Daddy. Grandpa and Uncle will carry the foal in.”

The three of them obediently went.

Su Xiaoxiao smiled at the village head and said, “I like it, so I bought it.”

The village head was not stupid. He sighed and said, “The children like it, right? Sigh, you're too indulgent.”

His thoughts were similar to those of Liu Ping. Even his own children were not so spoiled. If the child cried and refused to give up, he would just hit him a few times. How could anyone really dote on the children like this?

Their views were different, so Su Xiaoxiao didn't argue with the village head.

Moreover, the three little ones were not children who only wanted things. Even if she did not buy it today, they would definitely not cry.

However, their young hearts might always have a regret that could not be filled. If the silver was gone, she could earn it again. Their childhood could not be restarted. She hoped that she could protect the pure kindness in their hearts.

Old Li removed the blanket and checked the foal.

He was the only one in the village who raised cows. Although he had never raised a horse, he was still more experienced than ordinary people.

He frowned. “It's a premature foal, right?”

“What?” The village head was shocked. It was fine if it was a weaned foal, but it was actually born prematurely? No wonder it looked so weak and small!

“Can it still live?” He asked Old Li.

Old Li shook his head. “A foal needs to drink milk for the first two months. At the very least, it has to drink milk for a month. A foal without milk won't grow up, let alone one who hasn't had milk.”

“Aiyo, Heavens!” When the village head thought about how Daya had spent 40 taels of silver to buy this, he felt sorry for her.

“Can you find another horse to feed it?” he asked Old Li.

Old Li sighed. “We have to find it.”

There were very few horses giving birth in the winter. If this foal was not born prematurely, it should have been born at the beginning of spring next month.

Moreover, this was the countryside. No one raised horses.

The last hope in the village head's heart was shattered. He looked at Daya sympathetically, not knowing what to say to comfort her.

Su Xiaoxiao knew in her heart that the village head and Old Li were not here to ridicule her. They were sincerely thinking in her interest.

She said seriously, “Village Head, Uncle Li, don't worry. I can raise it.”

She did not say how she would raise it.

The two of them naturally did not believe her, but the more they said, the sadder she would be. They comforted her and left with sighs.

Father Su's heart was bleeding. However, he had to raise the foal her daughter bought.

He went to tidy up the pigpen aggrievedly. There were no pigs at home. The pigpen was used as a woodshed and would be occupied by the foal in the future.

It probably wouldn't be able to sleep in it for long.

Should he… or dig a hole in the forest behind?

Su Ergou didn't know how to raise horses and didn't know that the foal couldn't be raised. Anyway, he would believe whatever his sister said!

Wei Ting walked out with his walking stick. He looked at the foal that Su Ergou had carried to the pigpen… It should be called a stable now… and then at Su Xiaoxiao, who had walked into the house with her head held high.

He was about to speak.

Su Xiaoxiao extended her chubby hand and gestured for him to stop. “Stop! I know what you want to say! Swallow it back!”

Wei Ting snorted and went to the kitchen coldly.

Fine, she wouldn't let him say it. Don't regret it.

Although Father Su usually slacked off in farming and assembly line work, he did not hesitate to pack up the stables.

He had no choice. He could not bear to let his daughter do such dirty work. After cleaning up, he was sweating.

All parents in the world dote on their children. Su Xiaoxiao could buy a foal for the three little ones, and Father Su could fix a stable for his daughter without any complaints.

Even if he had to personally bury this foal in a few days.

After finally tidying up the stable, Wei Ting walked over and said, “Dad, a newborn foal is afraid of the cold. This place is open. The wind and snow are strong. It will freeze.”

Old Master Su looked pained. “Why didn't you say so earlier?”

Su Ergou hugged the foal and said, “Dad, if we don't raise it in the backyard, where should we raise it?”

Of the four rooms at home, only Wei Ting's original room was empty.

Wei Ting said, “We still need to prepare some grass. Fresh wheatgrass is the best. If there's no wheatgrass, dry grass is fine.”

It was not enough for Father Su to move all the withered grass in the house, so he went to Old Li's house to request some.

“Liu Ping, you know woodwork. Coincidentally, help me repair the bamboo bed…”

Su Xiaoxiao came to the door of the small east room and halfway through her sentence, her throat was stuck.

“Sister, move aside!”

Su Ergou carried the remains of the bamboo bed out of the house and threw it into the backyard. He raised the axe and hacked!

“Hey, it can burn for days!”

Su Ergou was very satisfied.

Su Xiaoxiao took a deep breath and closed her eyes. She said to Liu Ping with a fake smile, “There's no need to trouble you.”

….

Now that the cub's residence was settled, feeding it was the next priority. Although she guessed that the rice soup wouldn't work, Su Xiaoxiao still made a bowl to try. Indeed, the little horse was not interested at all. She could only get some milk for it to drink.

The three men at home were tidying up the dried grass for the little foal. Su Xiaoxiao blinked and quietly returned to the small east room.

She had to think of a way to enter the pharmacy. Surprisingly, she entered smoothly this time!

Uh… she was a little flattered.

Su Xiaoxiao didn't dare to delay. The trigger mechanism of the pharmacy was too strange. She was afraid that if she was a little slower, she wouldn't be able to take anything.

She first grabbed the token on the table. She had to bring this out no matter what.

Then, she arrived at the neonatology department's area.

What was worth mentioning was that when she passed by the Orthopedics Department's special area, she obediently didn't take the bone-strengthening pills.

She found the milk powder counter in the second row.

Su Xiaoxiao chose three cans of goat's first milk powder developed by the base and took a milk bottle with a cross mouth.

She paused, then thought of something and tentatively took another.

Seeing that she was not kicked out, she took two more!

When she left the pharmacy and returned to the small east room, she had three big jars of milk powder and four cute little milk bottles in her arms!

She happily went to make milk powder and touched her purse.

Only to find that the token had been seized by the pharmacy!

Indeed, there was a price to pay for taking advantage of others!

—

At night, Su Yuniang's ten-year-old brother came to look for Su Xiaoxiao. “My sister isn't feeling well. She asked you to take a look at her.”

Su Xiaoxiao went.

Su Yuniang was very comfortable. Her face was rosy, and her pulse was normal.

Su Xiaoxiao retracted her hand. “Aren't you fine?”

Su Yuniang did not answer. Instead, she asked, “What are you thinking? Do you have too much money to spend?”

Su Xiaoxiao smiled. “Yes, I have to thank you for the five taels of consultation fee.”

Su Yuniang glared at her. “I'll get someone to sell your horse for you. You won't be able to sell it for forty taels. Let's see if you can sell it for ten or twenty taels.”

Su Xiaoxiao didn't expect Su Yuniang to tell her this.

They were both daughters of the Su family, but Su Yuniang was much more honest than Su Jinniang.

Su Xiaoxiao smiled. “Didn't you say that it can't be raised? Who will buy it?”

Su Yuniang tucked the child beside her. “There are always some people who are stupid and rich.”

Su Xiaoxiao suspected Su Yuniang was implying at her with that statement.

“I appreciate your kindness. I shall raise my own horse.”

She thought of something and said, “Su Yuniang, didn't I fight with you when we were young?”

Su Yuniang glanced at her. “Why? Do you still want to fight?”

Su Xiaoxiao waved her hand. “I won't bully you since you're having your confinement! Besides, it's not like I didn't win! Alright, let's forget about the past!”

With that, she reached out to Su Yuniang.

Was this… a handshake?

Su Yuniang hesitated for a moment before placing her hand on Su Xiaoxiao's chubby hand.

Su Xiaoxiao frowned strangely. “What?”

Su Yuniang's eyelashes trembled. “What are you doing?”

“Today's consultation fee!” Su Xiaoxiao said righteously. “I took your pulse!”

Su Yuniang was speechless!

Chapter 106

The entire village was waiting to see Fatty Su make a fool of herself.

However, after a day, the little horse did not die.

Two days passed, but the little horse was not dead.

Three days later, the little horse stood up!

The news came from Niudan. As a frenemy of the three little ones, Niudan obtained a chance to feed the foal after being bullied to tears again.

“It stood up as it ate!”

Some villagers did not believe him and personally went to the Su family to take a look.

In the end, they realized that the little horse could not only stand, but also walk around!

Although it was walking shakily, it looked much more energetic than it did a few days ago!

At least it was no longer half-dead!

The village head exclaimed, “Daya really… reared it to life.”

Fatty Su used her capability to slap some villagers' faces again. Madam Zhou, who was gloating and gossiping everywhere, did not dare to say anything.

In the blink of an eye, it was the 15th day of the first lunar month. Su Xiaoxiao's business would officially open tomorrow.

However, because she had spent all her savings on buying a horse and a donkey, Su Xiaoxiao was so poor that she could not even afford the ingredients.

The ingredients for making pancakes at home could only last for another two days…

Su Xiaoxiao scratched her head angrily!

Sigh, why did she buy a horse?

“Daya, are you there?”

Father Su's voice came from outside the door.

Su Xiaoxiao closed the account book and regained her composure. “Yes, Dad. Come in.”

Old Master Su entered the room and gave her a brand-new money bag.

“Dad, what are you doing?” Su Xiaoxiao asked.

“I don't have anywhere to spend it. Take it,” Father Su said.

There was a total of 5 taels of silver inside. Su Xiaoxiao had given it to Father Su.

Old Master Su was very stingy and did not spend a single cent.

No, he spent 10 copper coins to buy a stick of candied hawthorn for the three little ones.

Su Xiaoxiao held the money bag in her hand and felt a warmth reach her heart, making her nose sting. “Dad…”

Father Su waved his hand. “Alright, I'm going to sleep. You should sleep early too.”

Su Xiaoxiao looked at Father Su's back and said seriously, “Dad, I'll earn a lot of money! I'll turn your 5 taels into 500 taels! 5,000 taels!”

Father Su was amused.

5,000 taels? It was already not bad for her to not lose money.

However, this was his biological daughter. She had to be pampered even if she was a prodigal!

At night, Su Yuniang's little brother came again.

He secretly handed Su Xiaoxiao a pouch and looked around. He said in a low voice, “My sister said that this is not a consultation fee. It's a loan to you. You have to return it!”

Su Xiaoxiao opened the pouch and saw two ingots worth 5 taels of silver.

Su Yuniang was really a rich woman!

….

The next day, Su Xiaoxiao woke up early. Madam Wu and Liu Ping came over before dawn.

Today, Madam Wu was mainly responsible for separating the yolk and white of the salted duck eggs.

The salted egg white that had been marinated was still flowing in a liquid state, while the egg yolk had solidified, so it was not difficult to separate.

She only needed to knock a small hole in the eggshell and pour out the egg white.

In order to increase efficiency, Su Xiaoxiao made a simple shelf and evenly lined it up. Every time, she only needed to knock a small hole in the eggshell and place it upside down on each compartment to let the egg white flow down smoothly and drip into the jar below.

The filtered salted egg white naturally could not be wasted. It could be used to marinate meat, stir-fry vegetables, cook porridge, and so on.

Jin Ji wanted salted egg yolk, which saved Su Xiaoxiao a process.

Su Xiaoxiao also made a compartment to store the salted egg yolk and spread bamboo leaves at the bottom.

These squares were designed by Su Xiaoxiao and made by Liu Ping. They were just right.

It had to be said that Liu Ping's skills were really good.

“Sister, aren't you going to do the snack business today?” Su Ergou asked as he sorted the egg yolk with a spoon.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Not today.”

“Oh.” Su Ergou smacked his lips and was a little disappointed.

Su Xiaoxiao smiled. “I'm kidding. I'm not doing the braised meat business today. The snack business will open. Hurry up and bring the chestnuts over!”

Su Ergou's eyes lit up. “Alright!”

It was quite busy early in the morning.

Su Xiaoxiao stirred the mung bean sand and said, “Ergou, there's no sugar left. Go scoop some for me.”

A slender jade-like hand picked up the empty sugar bowl on the stove, opened the sugar jar beside the cabinet, scooped up a large bowl of sugar, and placed it back on the stove.

Su Xiaoxiao was too busy to look up. “I need water. Add a ladle and a half to the pot.”

That exquisite jade-like hand scooped up the water ladle again and gently added it to the big iron pot twice.

“I need…”

Before she could finish her third order, the hand opened the cupboard again and took out the waking dough.

Su Xiaoxiao realized that something was wrong.

Su Ergou was not so calm when he worked. It was not that he was careless, but he did rush through everything!

Su Xiaoxiao blinked and slowed down. She coughed lightly and said, “I want to drink water. I'm thirsty.”

The hand paused and poured her a bowl of warm water.

Su Xiaoxiao said without changing her expression, “My hands are not free.”

That hand paused twice or three times before finally feeding Su Xiaoxiao.

Su Xiaoxiao pursed her lips and smiled. She lowered her head and took a small sip. “How sweet!”

She still wanted to drink!

“Brother-in-law, you're here! Eh? You're feeding my sister water!”

A certain someone's hand trembled and gave Su Xiaoxiao a big gulp!

Not only did Su Xiaoxiao choke, but the water was also splashed all over her face.

She bristled.

“Su, Er, Gou!”

….

Su Xiaoxiao went to change her clothes with a dark expression.

Su Ergou said to Wei Ting, “Why should my sister be angry? You didn't splash it on her, right?”

Then, Wei Ting glanced at him and left without saying a word.

….

When it was almost dawn, the snacks and salted egg yolk were all loaded onto the donkey cart.

The donkey was bought five days ago. The small cart that was loaded at the back was made by Liu Ping. Su Ergou also contributed a lot.

Before leaving, Su Xiaoxiao told Liu Ping and Madam Wu about their salary.

Initially, she had given Madam Wu 20 copper coins a day. Now that the workload had increased and the working hours had lengthened, Su Xiaoxiao mentioned 2,000 copper coins a month, which was two taels of silver.

Liu Ping's monthly allowance was also two taels.

Initially, Madam Wu felt that 20 copper coins were too much. Now, it had actually increased to 20 taels!

Liu Ping was also stunned.

His wife had told him that Daya would not treat them badly, but he had never thought that he would be able to take so much!

When he worked hard in town and ate rice and steamed buns, he only brought back one tael a month at most.

Although he had a lot of work to do with Daya, he had water to drink when he was thirsty, food to eat when he was hungry, and rest when he was tired. Not only would Daya not scold him, but she would also not deduct his salary.

He said seriously, “Daya, half a tael is enough! I feel bad if you give me too much! You've helped our family so much. I can't ask for so much!”

Su Xiaoxiao smiled. “Brother Liu, you don't have to feel bad.”

Hiring Liu Ping was equivalent to hiring a delivery man and a carpenter. The salary of two taels of silver was not high.

She had yet to mention the reward.

She smiled and said, “Brother Liu, work hard with Sister Xiao Wu. I won't treat you badly.”

Liu Ping naturally believed it!

After interacting with her for a while, he could tell that although Daya was a woman, her ability and breadth of mind were way ahead of many men!

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Let's go to the market first.”

On the first day, Su Xiaoxiao wanted to show Liu Ping the way and meet Luo Dazhuang and Shen Chuan. In the future, she would leave the market and the academy to Liu Ping. She and Su Ergou would focus on setting up a stall at the entrance of Jin Ji.

—

After Su Xiaoxiao and the other two set off, Wei Ting also walked out with his walking stick.

It was early and there were not many people in the village. No one noticed him.

He tried to walk as quietly as possible as he walked towards the official road.

….

Luo Dazhuang had been waiting at the market for a long time.

His parents hoped that he would rest at home for a few more days and come out to set up the stall when there were more people.

But who asked him to agree to that little village girl?

During the new year, the matchmaker came to tell him about a few girls. He was not very satisfied and the face of the little village girl kept flashing across his mind.

He had been here for two hours, but there was no sign of the little village girl.

The village girl had probably forgotten her agreement with him today. To think that he had left her high-grade plum blossom meat.

“Dazhuang!”

Su Xiaoxiao came to the stall and waved her hand in front of his eyes. She asked, “Why are you in a daze? A customer is looking for you to buy meat!”

Luo Dazhuang came back to his senses and glanced at Su Xiaoxiao and the aunt who had been waiting for a long time. “You want two pounds of pork ribs? I'll… Aiya! Who are you!”

He suddenly realized that something was wrong with the little girl he had just glanced at. She was different from before!

He looked at Su Xiaoxiao again!

Su Xiaoxiao smiled. “Dazhuang?”

Luo Dazhuang felt like he had seen a fairy.

After not seeing her for a month, Su Xiaoxiao changed a lot. Although she had not lost much weight, the lines of her face appeared, making her facial features look defined and three-dimensional.

Her skin went from rough yellow skin to a smooth girlish complexion. This was a visible whitening and beauty.

Luo Dazhuang covered his chest. Phew, his heart was beating so fast!

“Are you selling meat? If not, I'm leaving!” The auntie was getting impatient.

“Sell, sell, two catties, right?” Su Xiaoxiao picked up the bone knife on the chopping board and chopped two catties of pork ribs. She used a string of dumpling leaves to hand the pork to the auntie.

“I'll charge you 30 copper coins for the business!”

The aunt paid in satisfaction and left with the ribs.

Luo Dazhuang's heart was pounding!

The way she chopped her ribs just now was filled with the aura of a butcher!

Su Ergou said, “Sister, I want to eat pork ribs tonight!”

“Alright, five catties.” Su Xiaoxiao lowered her head and took out her wallet.

“No charge. It's for you!” Luo Dazhuang said arrogantly and began to chop ribs.

Su Ergou added, “Brother-in-law likes to eat it too!”

Luo Dazhuang: “A hundred copper coins!”

Chapter 107

Su Xiaoxiao introduced Liu Ping to Luo Dazhuang. In the future, Liu Ping would deliver and pick up the goods. The settlement was still once a day, which was requested by Luo Dazhuang.

Luo Dazhuang was a conservative businessman. Su Xiaoxiao understood this and did not find it troublesome.

Su Xiaoxiao bought a total of ten catties of pork ribs, ten catties of plum blossom meat, two large pig trotters, and two sets of pig offal.

Su Xiaoxiao handed the money bag to Liu Ping and asked him to pay the bill. She also gave Luo Dazhuang a bag of steaming snacks.

After being trashed again, Luo Dazhuang handed Su Xiaoxiao a pig brain expressionlessly.

From now on, they would not owe each other anything!

After leaving the market, Su Xiaoxiao led Liu Ping to Jin Ji.

Liu Ping had worked in town for many years and was familiar with the roads. He mainly recognized people.

It was Liu Ping's first time at Jin Ji. To be precise, it was his first time entering Jin Ji. He had passed by it many times in the past, but unfortunately, he did not dare to and could not enter.

“Jin Ji is so big.”

Liu Ping looked at the decorated hall and deeply felt that he had learned something from his Daya.

There were a few new faces in Jin Ji.

Su Xiaoxiao did not see Manager Sun. The person who came to contact them was a man surnamed He, who was in his early thirties.

Su Xiaoxiao heard the waiter call him Manager He.

“You are…” Manager He frowned as he looked at Su Xiaoxiao, who was dressed like a village girl, and Liu Ping, who had patches on his shoes.

“It's Miss Su, right?” A waiter in the kitchen quickly walked over and smiled at Su Xiaoxiao. He said to Manager He, “They're here to deliver the goods. It's the business that Manager Sun decided on previously.”

Manager He frowned again and sized Su Xiaoxiao up. He had no intention of interacting with Su Xiaoxiao and left arrogantly.

The assistant said amiably, “Miss Su, have you brought the goods?”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “I brought them. They're outside.”

The assistant said, “Please send them to the kitchen.”

Su Xiaoxiao nodded. “Okay.”

After Manager He returned to the counter, he said something to the waiter beside him. The waiter walked over and scolded Su Xiaoxiao, “Take the back door! Don't offend the guests in the lobby!”

Even a fool could tell that he was looking down on her.

The assistant smiled awkwardly. “Miss Su, are we… going through the back door?”

Su Xiaoxiao: “Okay.”

Seeing that Su Xiaoxiao didn't take it to heart, the assistant heaved a sigh of relief.

“Where did your Manager Sun go?” Su Xiaoxiao asked.

The assistant opened his mouth. “He… went to find another job. Miss Su, don't worry. The business that was originally decided won't change. It's still as much as it should be.”

“Oh.” Su Xiaoxiao didn't ask further.

Liu Ping moved the 100 salted egg yolks to the kitchen and left four grid boards for the egg yolks. She would bring new ones over tomorrow and bring the old ones back.

This was the first time the chefs had seen such a box containing egg yolk. They were all extremely curious.

This way of storing egg yolks was fine. The egg yolks would not fall off and were not easy to break. It was convenient.

“Where did you buy it, young man?” an elderly chef asked.

Liu Ping said, “My boss taught me.”

The chef said again, “Your boss is… ”

Liu Ping pointed at the layers of salted egg yolk and smiled. “It's Miss Su, who supplies you!”

Everyone was enlightened and shocked.

They originally thought that the girl was just good at cooking, but they did not expect her to be so skilled. The design of this grid… was amazing!

If they had such a slot, how many eggs could they save from breakage every day?

“Can you make us a few too? It's not for nothing!”

“This… I have to ask the boss.”

Liu Ping came out and told Su Xiaoxiao that the chef wanted the egg grids.

Su Xiaoxiao thought for a moment and said, “Let them find a carpenter to make it themselves. Anyway, the grid has been left for them. The carpenter should be able to make it after seeing it.”

It was not that she did not want to earn this money, but it was not worth it.

Woodworking in town was not expensive. They could not sell it for much money and it was time-consuming.

There was no such thing as applying for a patent in ancient times.

Liu Ping said, “Alright, I'll go tell them!”

On the other side, Su Ergou looked at the donkey cart as he placed the snacks out.

Now that they had a small cart, they didn't have to hang the tray around their necks and sell it like before.

In his sister's words, they already had a cart!

Even though the stall was just a small cart—

Su Ergou's enthusiasm soared. He grinned and revealed the first commercial smile of the new year!

“I'm selling… pancakes!”

“Look, look! The wife pancakes are out!”

Chapter 108

More than ten customers who were queuing up at Jin Ji were shouted at by Su Ergou!

These were all old customers. They had eaten the pancakes sold by the siblings and felt they were much better than the pancakes sold in Jin Ji. It was just that they did not sell a lot every day. If they came late, it was very likely that they would not be able to snatch them.

“There are also wife pancakes in Jin Ji,” a guest who still chose to queue said. “I wonder if the things those country bumpkins sell are clean. What if I get sick from eating them?”

A young master said, “That's right. If you eat snacks from Jin Ji, you can live for 200 years!”

The customer wanted to scold this kid for speaking like this, but when he saw that the other party was a scholar, he closed his mouth.

Shen Chuan snorted and opened his fan. He no longer queued for the Jin Ji and swaggered to the line of authentic wife pancakes.

“Give me five red bean fillings!”

“I want two green beans! Two red beans!”

“Do you have egg yolk pastries?”

“Chestnut cake! Chestnut cake! Chestnut cake!”

“Do you have any wife pancakes with chestnut filling today? Leave a few for me! Don't sell them all later!”

The siblings only sold 100 pancakes at the stall. All the regular customers knew that they had to snatch the pancakes. Otherwise, they would be gone!

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Everyone, don't squeeze. You can buy it since we made a hundred more today.”

“I want two of the dried plums!” said a young woman.

“Sorry, I didn't make any dried plum vegetables today. There's a new flavor. Do you want to try it?” Su Xiaoxiao cut a small piece of meat floss pancake and handed it to her.

The woman took it and gave the child a bite before eating the rest herself.

The mother and daughter liked it very much.

The little girl said, “Mother, I don't want those with dried plum vegetables anymore. I want this!”

“Let me try it too!” An auntie said.

“Okay.” Su Xiaoxiao cut a little for her and the guests in front.

After everyone tasted it, they were as stunned as ever.

Indeed, the snacks sold by this pair of siblings had never disappointed anyone!

The aunt asked, “It's different from the pancakes you sold previously. Is this also a wife pancake? What filling is it?”

Su Xiaoxiao smiled and looked at Su Ergou.

Su Ergou straightened his back and said proudly, “This is Ergou Pancake!”

Ergou Pancake?

Was it the Ergou they understood?

Why did they come up with such a strange name?

It was too old-fashioned!

However, the taste was really superb!

The salty and sweet taste was different from the smooth texture of the dried plum vegetables. It was rustling and soft, and the more one chewed, the more fragrant it became!

Its crust was also softer, giving off a gentle and plump feeling, making people subconsciously bite it gently.

Oh my god, how could someone make pancakes that were so delicious?

“Give me ten!” A young man said.

“I want ten too!” The auntie behind him said.

“Fifteen!”

“Twenty!”

Wait, you haven't asked for the price!

Had she become so rich after the new year?

The meat floss pancakes were priced higher than the wife pancakes. Firstly, the process was more complicated, and secondly, the cost price was higher.

The honey date meat pancake cost 15 copper coins, and the salted egg yolk meat floss pancake cost 25 copper coins.

This price was definitely not economical. Liu Ping was shocked when he heard it at first. He estimated that they could only sell half of what they had at most.

However, he only went to the kitchen to pass a message. When he came back, he was dumbfounded!

Did they arrange the wrong place for setting up the stall? Jin Ji was beside them!

Su Ergou's hands went weak from receiving the copper coins. People kept handing them to him, and those that couldn't reach him stuffed them into his arms.

“Aiyaya! Don't snatch, don't snatch! Line up!”

“Don't touch me!”

“Howl! Who pinched my butt!”

Su Ergou was in chaos!

Su Xiaoxiao methodically wrapped snacks for the guest. Her movements were smooth and her memory was amazing. There was no mistake.

“Sir, your three chestnut cakes.”

“Little brother, your five Ergou pancakes.”

“…Yes, limited to five per person.”

“Alright, I'll wrap it up for you immediately. It's a total of 120 copper coins.”

Liu Ping was dumbfounded. His wife had mentioned to him that Daya's business was very good. She could sell all the pancakes she made every day.

However, selling the goods in one day was considered sold out; so was selling them in one hour. The queue was almost longer than the one at the entrance of Jin Ji!

Those who didn't know better would think that this was the real stall of Jin Ji.

“Everyone, don't get to the wrong place—Jin Ji is here! The snacks are about to be served! They're not selling Jin Ji's snacks outside! Jin Ji doesn't set up roadside stalls!”

It was a newcomer from Jin Ji.

He was likely Manager He's trusted aide. When he came out and saw that many of the customers in line had been snatched, he thought that the other party was an imposter, so he shouted.

An auntie carrying a basket retorted with her hands on her hips, “I love buying from a roadside stall!”

Everyone laughed out loud!

“Yes, didn't they buy from the siblings' roadside stall?”

“Where did this fool come from?”

“And the wrong one?' Even if you went the wrong way, we won't!”

The snacks from Jin Ji were also out, but none of Su Xiaoxiao and Su Ergou's customers were snatched away.

Not only that, Su Xiaoxiao clearly felt that many of the guests this time were stewards or servants of big families.

This meant that her customer base had risen to another level.

She was about to enter a new market. This was definitely the biggest surprise of the new year!

It was not until the 200 pancakes were sold out that the customers returned to line up at Jin Ji.

Such a situation would not have happened a month ago.

When Su Xiaoxiao and Su Ergou just set up the stall, the customers couldn't buy snacks from Jin Ji, so they came to buy snacks from the siblings.

Liu Ping was shocked.

Was he really seeing things just now? He had been in town for a few years, but he had never seen anyone snatch business from Jin Ji like this. It was just a roadside stall!

“Give me a few pancakes. Any flavor will do.”

“Sorry, they're sold out. Come back tomorrow.”

“Aren't there three more beside you?”

“Those are for my brother.”

Three live eating broadcasts were Su Ergou's standard.

Business was too good today. He hadn't had time to eat.

Su Xiaoxiao remembered that she wouldn't sell his share of happiness.

Wait, this voice…

Chapter 109

Su Xiaoxiao looked up. “Shen Chuan?”

Shen Chuan said, “You're a busy person now! Your business is getting bigger and bigger. Don't forget me!”

“Thanks to you.” Su Xiaoxiao smiled slightly. She thought of something and asked, “Didn't you say that you were going to study in the prefecture capital before the New Year? When are you leaving?”

Shen Chuan sighed. “Tomorrow.”

Su Xiaoxiao took in his expression and asked, “You don't seem to want to go.”

Shen Chuan waved his fan helplessly. “Isn't it the same studying anywhere? My father teaches well.”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “It's better to travel ten thousand miles than to read ten thousand books. Dean Shen probably wants you to go out and gain experience.”

Shen Chuan closed his fan. “What you said makes sense. Thinking about it this way, I'm not so against going to the prefecture capital! Moreover, the prefecture capital is not far. I can get there in a day if I ride fast. I can come back in ten days.”

Su Xiaoxiao had always heard in the village that the prefecture capital was as far as it was. It took ten days to half a month to walk. It turned out that it only took a day by carriage.

This was probably the difference in resources between prodigies and ordinary people.

Shen Chuan patted his fan. “It's a pity that I didn't get to eat your snacks!”

Actually, he could have queued up, but after hesitating for a moment, he gave way to the customer behind him several times.

He hoped that her business would improve. He hoped that her snacks would be eaten by more customers.

However, he regretted it now.

If he had known… he would have let one less guest move ahead of him.

“Here.” Su Xiaoxiao took out a bag of snacks from the basket.

“Aren't you sold out?” Shen Chuan asked.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “We're sold out, but this is not for sale. It's a gift for my friend.”

This little girl could always surprise people.

Shen Chuan happily took the snack and looked at Su Xiaoxiao a few more times.

Just now, Su Xiaoxiao was surrounded by people, so he couldn't see her clearly. Now that he was closer, he realized that Miss Su seemed different from before.

She… looked better.

How could a scholar like him comment on a girl's appearance in his heart?

It was very rude!

Shen Chuan was mainly here to say goodbye to Su Xiaoxiao today. He had originally planned to go to her house, but when he thought about how she was already married, he was worried that he would cause many misunderstandings if he frequented her house.

Speaking of which, why was she married?

“I almost forgot when I was talking to you. Young Master Xiang asked me to ask you if he needs to continue taking his medicine after eating it. If you're free, can you go to the Academy to do a follow-up for him?”

Su Xiaoxiao nodded. “Okay, I'll go over later.”

Shen Chuan still had to say goodbye to his other classmates and took his leave first.

Liu Ping brought the donkey over and closed the stall with the siblings.

Suddenly, a waiter from Jin Ji walked over with a dark expression.

He said coldly, “You're not allowed to sell snacks here anymore!”

“Why?” Su Xiaoxiao asked.

He pointed at the ground with his nose. “This is Jin Ji's territory! Jin Ji has the final say!”

Su Ergou said, “We didn't sell it at the entrance of Jin Ji!”

The assistant threatened, “You can't go anywhere near Jin Ji! Otherwise, you'll be chased out every time we see you!”

Su Ergou put the unfinished pancake back into the paper bag and rolled up his sleeves, showing his true colors as a bully. “Who are you chasing away? Say it again if you have the guts!”

“Ergou, come back.” Su Xiaoxiao called out to Su Ergou.

Su Ergou gritted his teeth and glared at the assistant before returning to Su Xiaoxiao's side.

Seeing that the two of them did not attack him, the assistant treated it as if the two of them were afraid. He sneered and flicked his sleeve. “You're on your own! Don't let me see you again!”

Su Ergou said gloomily, “Sister! Why didn't you let me beat him up? Even if they came seven or eight more times like last time, I wouldn't have lost!”

He had learned a few moves from his brother-in-law!

Su Xiaoxiao said, “No need.”

Liu Ping advised, “Yes, he's just an errand boy. It's useless for you to beat him up.”

Su Ergou said angrily, “Then I'll go beat up Manager Sun!”

Su Xiaoxiao shook her head. “It wasn't Manager Sun. After Manager Sun left, there is a new manager whose surname is He. He should have brought that assistant over just now. He looks unfamiliar.”

Su Ergou muttered, “What is Jin Ji doing? Why did they suddenly change the shopkeeper? The new person is even worse than Shopkeeper Sun!”

At the very least, Manager Sun had never chased them away. It was not that Manager Sun was very kind. When he forced them to sell the formula, Manager Sun had also used some dishonorable methods.

Chapter 110

However, this new Shopkeeper He was even more arrogant and unscrupulous than Shopkeeper Sun, and he did not take the vendors on the streets seriously.

The matter of saving the child had long been forgotten. Now that it was rarely mentioned, even if Jin Ji really chased her, the “big hero”, away, they would not receive much abuse.

It was said that the business world was like a battlefield. Competition was a life-and-death relationship. Moreover, a new position holder would be eager to prove his worth. Manager He would not follow Manager Sun's rules.

He wanted to set his own rules.

Liu Ping sighed secretly. Just now, he was still amazed at how well Daya's business was doing. Who knew that she would get into big trouble with Jin Ji?

If they could not set up a stall near Jin Ji, the customers they had painstakingly accumulated would be lost.

Daya must be very sad, right? Liu Ping looked at Su Xiaoxiao, but to his surprise, Su Xiaoxiao's expression was very calm.

Su Xiaoxiao was indeed not too shocked. From the day she decided to set up a stall near Jin Ji, she had expected this day.

If they did not want to attract the attention of Jin Ji, they could only run an unsuccessful business. Once their business became popular, it would definitely cause Jin Ji to chase them away.

In the past, Manager Sun did not chase her away. Other than the fact that she was still in the limelight when she saved Jin Ji's customer, the other two reasons were that she did not sell much and did not snatch many high-quality customers.

Today, several big families visited her small stall. The old customers of Jin Ji were disappearing.

Even if Manager Sun was here, he might not be able to sit still.

In a way, their business was really popular. It was so popular that even Jin Ji was jealous.

In Madam Li's words, this was not a bad thing. It was a precious whetstone that could hone her abilities. If she could survive it, she would be able to soar! If she couldn't take it, she could only lie back on the ground and continue to be a pile of mud!

Madam Li came from a rural family and went to work in society before graduating from junior high. Her grandmother had told her many stories about Madam Li's bumpy journey. She said that Madam Li had slept on the streets, eaten rotten steamed buns, been a cleaner, sold bento boxes, been threatened by her peers, and been splashed with dog blood by her competitors…

She had even been stabbed and hospitalized…

She looked at Madam Li, who was dressed in jewelry and was even more elegant than a wealthy lady. She felt that her grandmother was making up a story to make her feel more sorry for Madam Li.

But she was a child. Why should her heart ache for adults?

Madam Li didn't even feel sorry for herself!

From the looks of it, Granny might not be exaggerating. The bumps that ordinary people had to go through to start from scratch were unimaginable. However, she was not afraid. In fact, there was a hint of anticipation in her bones.

Wasn't it just Jin Ji?

Trying to trample her down?

Dream on!

“Sister, are we still coming to set up the stall tomorrow?”

“Yes! Why not?”

If she had the ability to snatch Jin Ji's business with her strength, they should not think about scaring her away with a few words.

She compromised this time. If she expanded her business somewhere else, she dared to bet that Jin Ji would still not let her off.

Therefore, why should she back down?

Liu Ping thought to himself, As expected of a bully. She was even bolder than a man. She really went against Jin Ji.

He was an honest person and never caused trouble, but Daya was his benefactor.

If Jin Ji's fist smashed down tomorrow, he would stand in front of Daya!

At Wutong Academy, Young Master Xiang had nothing to do. He was wearing a fox fur coat and painting in front of the window.

Jing Yi sat silently at the side.

The young man gave off a high-spirited feeling when he was quiet.

Young Master Xiang glanced at him and glanced at his right hand. He smiled faintly and said, “You haven't given away the brocade bag yet?”

Jing Yi's hand that was playing with the brocade bag paused. “What did Cousin say?”

Young Master Xiang said, “Alright, can't I tell what you're thinking? You clearly wanted to give it away before the new year. Tell Cousin, did you not give it away, or did the person refuse and returned it to you?”

“She didn't refuse!” Jing Yi said. After saying that, he realized that he had said it too quickly and said, “Who said I wanted to give it away?”

Young Master Xiang smiled and said, “If you want to give it to her, so be it. When did our Young Marquis Jing become so wishy-washy? Aren't the two of you quite close? Why can't you give her a gift? Did you offend her?”

Jing Yi said stubbornly, “I don't understand what Cousin is talking about.”

“If you really can't send it out, I'll help you.”

“Why should Cousin help to give my own gift?”

“You admitted it, didn't you?”

Jing Yi wanted to say something but hesitated. After a while, he said, “It's just a return gift.”

“It is only a return gift if you gave it away.” Young Master Xiang pointed at his heart. “Whatever remains with you are just intentions.”

“Cousin, shouldn't you be worried about yourself?” Jing Yi decisively changed the topic. “I heard that I'm going to have another cousin-in-law.”

This was the news that Hong Luan and the other two had brought back from the capital. The imperial edict had been issued.

He understood that his cousin did not want to marry his betrothed.

In a marriage between nobles, everyone took what they needed.

While his cousin obtained military power, his in-law-to-be was also officially appointed the Duke and obtained the recognition of all the families.

This was probably the meaning of this marriage.

Seeing that his cousin was silent, Jing Yi regretted mentioning this topic.

“Do you have the whereabouts of the Commander's Seal?” Young Master Xiang did not want to talk about the marriage.

Jing Yi said, “No.”

Young Master Xiang said, “I will need to recover from my ‘illness' one day. I can't stay in Qingzhou forever. It's best to get the Commander's Seal before I leave.”

Jing Yi opened his mouth and asked, “Cousin, is the Commander's Seal really that important?”

Young Master Xiang continued to paint. “Without the Commander's Seal, we can't touch the Wei family.”

Jing Yi said, “The entire Wei family died in battle. There is only a young son left. What's there to be afraid of?”

“Young son?” Young Master Xiang smiled. “You make it sound like you're older than him. He's a young talent. He was the top scholar at the provincial level by the age of 17. At the age of 18, he abandoned his studies and took up martial arts. At the age of 19, he beheaded King Hulie… He can go to the battlefield and enter the court. Jing Yi, don't underestimate him.”

Chapter 111

“Young Master, Miss Su is here.”

Chang Ping reported from outside the door.

Ever since Su Xiaoxiao complained about him, he didn't dare to disrespect Su Xiaoxiao in front of Young Master. Therefore, when he heard that Su Xiaoxiao was here, he immediately came over to inform Young Master.

Jing Yi was slightly stunned and looked at his cousin. “You asked her to come?”

Young Master Xiang smiled and said, “If I don't invite her, won't you be able to give away your gift?”

Jing Yi frowned.

Young Master Xiang sighed. “It's a pity that she has a husband.”

Jing Yi said, “It's just a thank-you gift. Cousin, are you thinking too much?”

“Alright, I'm thinking too much.” Young Master Xiang smiled at Jing Yi and turned to the long man. “Why are you standing there? Hurry up and invite Miss Su in.”

Chang Ping hurriedly turned around and left the courtyard.

Liu Ping also followed the two of them in. In the future, he would be in charge of the academy's business.

Liu Ping's mood today was like a swing—business was booming and he was happy! He was threatened by Jin Ji and was disappointed! Did they have business with the academy too? How shocking!

To ordinary people, the academy was much more sacred than Jin Ji. It was filled with scholars. People could not enter just because they were rich.

What was the saying?

All things were inferior except for reading. It could be seen how respected scholars were.

“Miss Su, please,” Chang Ping said.

Su Xiaoxiao followed Chang Ping to Young Master Xiang's room. Liu Ping and Su Ergou stayed in the small study.

Su Ergou had probably come here to catch up on his sleep. The moment he entered the house, he started to feel sleepy.

He touched his pouch.

Eh? Where was his Ergou Pancake?

Oh, he remembered. The last pancake had been robbed by the old man at the back door.

Su Ergou smacked his lips and lay down on the chair to sleep!

Liu Ping was a little uneasy. He sat upright for a moment and felt strange. He couldn't help but stand up and walk away.

He looked at this vase and then at the calligraphy painting.

It was unbelievable that he could enter the academy in his lifetime!

“You're Brother Liu, right?”

A pageboy walked in with a smile.

“Ah, I am!” Liu Ping immediately tensed up as if he had been caught red-handed.

The servant entered with a cup of tea. “Brother Liu, have some tea.”

Liu Ping hurriedly said, “Ah, no, you don't have to be so polite.”

The servant said amiably, “Brother Liu, you don't have to be polite with me. My young master said that we have to treat the person Miss Su brought over well. The dean has the same intention.”

Liu Ping had just sat down when he heard this and stood up in shock. “Dean?”

The servant smiled and said, “That's right. This is the dean's courtyard. He's teaching students now.”

Liu Ping's legs went weak!

Damn!

He had entered the dean's residence!

The servant said politely, “Miss Su just told me that you will be the one to deliver the goods in the future. My young master is about to go to the prefecture to study. You can look for me for business. My name is Zhou Xing.”

“Hey!” Liu Ping said, “Little Brother Zhou.”

Zhou Xing smiled and said, “Brother Liu, don't be so polite. If my young master hears this, he will punish me. Brother Liu, sit for a while. I'll go check the list.”

Zhou Xing left.

Liu Ping could not calm down for a long time.

It was one thing to hear that Daya had a relationship with Young Master Shen, but it was another to feel it personally.

He was just a farmer. Even if the other party was a servant, he was still the dean's trusted aide. Why was he being polite to him?

Wasn't it all because of her?

Daya was amazing!

He had followed the right person!

“Your pulse is gentle and strong. It's neither floating nor sinking. Your rhythm is neat. You're recovering well. You don't have to take any more medicine.”

Su Xiaoxiao retracted her hand.

Young Master Xiang sat on the chair and lowered his elegant and exquisite cuffs with a smile. He said to Su Xiaoxiao, “Miss Su's medical skills are brilliant. You must have had an extremely good year.”

“Huh?” Su Xiaoxiao didn't understand why he said that.

Young Master Xiang smiled warmly. “You look good.”

Su Xiaoxiao thought he could just praise her for becoming beautiful!

Su Xiaoxiao looked around. “Eh? Why don't I see Jing Yi?”

Young Master Xiang glanced at the door from the corner of his eye and couldn't help but laugh. “Yes, he had been staying here all morning. When he heard that you were coming… ”

“Cousin!” Jing Yi walked in expressionlessly and glanced at Su Xiaoxiao, who was sitting beside Young Master Xiang. “Miss Su.”

“Oh, Jing Yi, you've grown taller!” Su Xiaoxiao's sharp eyes noticed the change in him.

Jing Yi's eyes flickered.

“In the past, you only came up here.” Su Xiaoxiao pointed at a small pattern on the door frame. “Now you've grown taller.”

Chapter 112

Young Master Xiang smiled and said, “Miss Su is really observant of Jing Yi.”

Su Xiaoxiao was clearly married. Logically speaking, they should call her Madam Su, but Su Xiaoxiao had been walking around as a girl, so they did not change their address.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “I have a younger brother who's also growing taller.”

Jing Yi left with a dark expression.

“Eh? Why did he leave?” Su Xiaoxiao curled her lips. “You have a bad temper.”

Young Master Xiang sighed in amusement. “Sigh. Looks like he can't send it out again.”

“What?” Su Xiaoxiao didn't understand.

“No.” Young Master Xiang smiled and said, “Miss Su, stay for a meal. I happen to have some ingredients from the capital.”

Su Xiaoxiao rejected politely. “No, I still have something on at home. I have to go back early.”

When the three little children did not see her, they would squat in the corner again.

Seeing this, Young Master Xiang no longer insisted on asking her to stay and asked Changping to give her the consultation fee.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “You gave a lot last time. You don't have to give it this time.”

Changping was thinking that if she was serious about not accepting payment, she should open her fist first!

However, Su Xiaoxiao grabbed the silver tightly. “Aiya, seriously, you're treating me like an outsider. I already said no.”

Chang Ping was speechless.

After leaving the Academy, Su Xiaoxiao went to Spring Willow Alley again.

Doctor Fu was making another house call.

However, this time, it was in town and could come back at night.

Su Xiaoxiao was here to deliver antihypertensive medicine. Counting the days, Aunt Fu should have finished her medicine.

“Did you take your medicine well?” Su Xiaoxiao asked routinely.

“I didn't take it!” Aunt Fu replied unhappily.

She took her blood pressure and found it to be normal.

It would be strange if she didn't take the medicine. She probably didn't miss a dose.

Su Xiaoxiao looked straight at her and smiled mischievously. “Aunt Fu, you've gained weight. Your appetite has been good recently, right?”

Aunt Fu denied it. “Nonsense! My appetite is terrible! I can't eat anything! It's your medicine! Also, my leg is broken and I'm in so much pain. How can I be in the mood to eat!”

“Aunt Fu, I brought you tonic soup! It's stewed with the cordyceps you gave me. It smells good!”

The woman next door walked in with a bowl of steaming tonic soup and a smile.

It was obvious that this was not the first time she had done this.

When she saw Su Xiaoxiao, she was stunned at first. Then, her gaze landed on the empty plate on the bedside table and her body trembled!

“Aunt Fu, there were three big pancakes. I only went to make soup. Don't tell me you ate them all?”

Aunt Fu's face turned red!

“I didn't! She ate it!”

She decisively pushed the blame onto Su Xiaoxiao.

In the next second, she burped.

Seeing Aunt Fu die of embarrassment was simply a joy in life. Su Xiaoxiao was not stingy with her laughter.

Aunt Fu's face darkened!

With the neighbor taking good care of Aunt Fu, Su Xiaoxiao was not worried. After keeping the medicine, she brought Su Ergou and Liu Ping back to the village.

Su Xiaoxiao took the reins and said to Liu Ping, “You'll go to the few places we went to today often in the future. Do you remember them?”

“I remember.” Liu Ping said with heartfelt admiration, “Daya, I realized that it wasn't easy for you.”

The villagers discussed in private how Daya had earned silver. Some even asked if she had gone to steal.

If they went to see how far Daya had walked, how many places she had run to, how much she had done, and how much risk she had taken, they probably wouldn't be able to say anything malicious.

Su Xiaoxiao entered the house while Su Ergou fed the donkey.

Madam Wu went home to cook for her two children. Old Master Su brought the three little ones to dig bamboo shoots in the small forest behind the kitchen. The foal lay on the warm hay in the small east room and slept.

Wei Ting was nowhere to be seen.

Eh? Where did that guy go?

In the forest to the east of the official road, Wei Ting stood under a snow-covered tree with a cold expression.

“My lord!”

A man in black knelt on one knee and cupped his hands. “I came late. Please forgive me!”

Wei Ting glanced at the bushes at the side and said calmly, “Have the marks been destroyed?”

The man in black said, “Everything on the way here has been destroyed!”

Su Xiaoxiao thought that Wei Ting had another motive for coming to the official road last time. She was half right. He did have something to do. Although he didn't dig for treasures, he left marks.

“Sir, are the little masters alright?”

“Yeah.”

Not only were they fine? They were simply so happy that they had forgotten about home! They had forgotten their surname!

Wei Ting's eyes turned cold.

The man in black sensed Wei Ting's emotions and could not help but wonder if the little masters were doing well or not.

If they weren't doing well, why did he say yes?

If they lived well, why this bitter expression?

The man in black returned to the topic. “My lord, since you and the little masters are safe, can we set off for the capital?”

Wei Ting said, “Not yet. We have to take back the Commander's Seal first.”

The man in black's eyes lit up. “Sir, have you obtained the Commander's Seal?”

He had originally obtained it, but now he had lost it…

Wei Ting frowned and said, “You don't have to worry about this. I have my own ideas.”

“Yes!” The man in black continued, “Your Excellency, Young Marquis Jing has left the capital. I suspect that he has also come to Qingzhou to inquire about the Commander's Seal.”

Wei Ting pondered.

A moment later, he gestured to the man in black.

“Go do something.”

Had the lord finally given him a mission?

The man in black was extremely excited. He cupped his fists and said, “Sir, please instruct me! I will go through fire and water!”

Wei Ting said, “Cut a bundle of firewood.”

The man in black was dumbfounded.

When Wei Ting carried the firewood out of the forest, it was almost noon.

At this moment, the villagers were eating at home with their doors closed. There were not many people outside.

Wei Ting had specially chosen this time.

However, just as he passed by the village entrance, he happened to bump into Su Jinniang, who had come to the well to get water.

Chapter 113

Su Jinniang was wearing brand-new clothes and looked beautiful.

When she saw Wei Ting, her face turned slightly red. “Mr. Wei.”

Wei Ting ignored her.

She mustered her courage again and looked at the bundle of dry firewood on Wei Ting's shoulder. She said softly, “Young Mr. Wei, did you go to chop firewood? It's inconvenient to move around in your condition. How can the Su family let you do such a job? Put it down. I'll get my brother to send it over for you.”

“No need.” Wei Ting rejected coldly.

Su Jinniang hurriedly said, “You don't have to be embarrassed. We're from the same village. It's only right for us to help each other…”

“Brother Wei!”

Li Xiaoyong walked out of the house.

He looked at Wei Ting and smiled happily.

“It's really you! I thought so at home just now! It's snowing heavily. Why did you go to chop firewood? Let me know if you want firewood next time!”

As the two families interacted more, Li Xiaoyong's address of Wei Ting changed from Mr. Wei to Brother Wei.

“Give it to me!” Li Xiaoyong reached out and grabbed the firewood from Wei Ting's shoulder.

Wei Ting said politely, “Thank you.”

The two of them walked toward the Su family.

Li Xiaoyong ignored Su Jinniang. Su Yuniang had intercepted the midwife, so he was extremely angry.

The entire village was indebted to the Su family. While he could not take revenge on the Su family, he could ignore them, right?

Su Jinniang looked at the two of them leave without looking back as if she had been snubbed.

At home, the three little ones had only returned from digging bamboo shoots. To be precise, when they saw Su Xiaoxiao, they decisively abandoned Father Su.

Su Xiaoxiao made goat milk for the three human cubs and the small horse cub.

The three of them sat on the low stool in the small east room, grabbed the handle of the milk bottle with both hands, and gulped the milk.

The little horse was also drinking the milk Su Xiaoxiao fed it.

The four cubs sucked at the milk bottle, each more arrogant than the other.

Su Xiaoxiao was always taking out strange things that confounded Wei Ting. It could not be said that he was not surprised, but it was indeed not that strange when it came to her.

He had once asked Su Xiaoxiao what these strange things were and where they came from.

Su Xiaoxiao only replied with three sentences. “It's made of goat's milk! It's given by a physician! It's good for the body!”

Wei Ting doubted the second sentence.

At night, the family sat in the central room and ate.

Su Ergou frowned tightly.

He could not hide his thoughts. Almost all his thoughts were written on his face.

Wei Ting asked, “Ergou, did something happen?”

Su Ergou took a bite of rice and told him about the threat from Jin Ji.

Su Cheng slammed the table. “How ridiculous!”

So what if a new shopkeeper came? He threatened his daughter! How bold!

“I'll go with you tomorrow morning! Let's see who dares to touch my daughter!”

The next morning, Father Su was sound asleep…

After buying fresh ingredients yesterday, she was able to make plum-dried vegetable pancakes. In addition, she had also arranged for the braised meat.

Su Xiaoxiao made 160 more pancakes today than yesterday, a total of 360, 60 of which were for Wutong Academy.

As for the salted egg yolk, Su Xiaoxiao didn't ask Madam Wu to work on it.

It was Jin Ji who destroyed the cooperation first.

Did Jin Ji think that it was the only one who could bully others?

From now on, she would also impose sanctions on Jin Ji!

Although it might not be of any use. After all, there were many snacks in Jin Ji. Selling one less egg yolk pastry would not hurt at all.

However, this was not a matter of whether she could cause much loss. It was her attitude and stand!

The three of them drove the donkey cart to town.

In the past, the route was the market, Jinji, and the Academy. Now that Liu Ping was here, they first came to the vicinity of Jin Ji to set up a stall.

Liu Ping sent them off before driving to the market and Wutong Academy to deliver the goods.

At the alley beside Jin Ji, Su Xiaoxiao took out the folding table she had designed and generously placed the snacks out.

She was no longer worried that Jin Ji would cut off her flour. Firstly, she had taken Father Su and Su Yuniang's “sponsorship” yesterday to the market to stockpile enough flour to last for a month.

Secondly, Shen Chuan had told her that the prefecture capital was not far. She could reach it in a day.

Jin Ji's clutches could not reach the prefecture capital yet.

These were her confidence in fighting against Jin Ji.

When the waiter of Jin Ji saw that the siblings had come to set up a stall again, he hurriedly went to the office upstairs to report to Shopkeeper He.

Manager He frowned.

“What did you tell them yesterday?”

The waiter said, “I told them not to set up a stall near us. Otherwise, we'll chase them away every time we see them!”

Manager He said, “Then why are they still here?”

The waiter said anxiously, “I don't know either! I've asked around. Back then, when Manager Sun asked them to buy the formula, they didn't agree at first. Later on, when Manager Sun came to force them, the two of them immediately cowered! They sold three formulas in one go!”

Some truths were distorted as they spread. Back then, Su Xiaoxiao was not afraid, but digging a hole for Manager Sun. Manager Sun had taken a fancy to the three prescriptions himself.

Manager Sun cared about his face. He could not admit that he could not defeat a little girl. The truth that came out of his mouth was already a little warped. If he let others spread that, his nose would no longer be his nose, and his eyes would no longer be his eyes.

Shopkeeper He and the others did not know the truth.

In their opinion, two country bumpkins, one of whom was a girl, definitely did not have the guts to be enemies with Jin Ji. One threatened the other!

Shopkeeper He said coldly, “Go down! Chase them away!”

The waiter rolled up his sleeves fiercely. “Alright! I'll go now!”

The sky was already bright, and there were gradually more pedestrians on the streets.

The siblings' business opened for the new day.

There were repeat customers and many new customers. It seemed that their reputation had been established.

“Your five Ergou pancakes. They're jujube-flavored.” Su Xiaoxiao wrapped them up and handed them to the first customer of the day.

She was an auntie in her early forties and was a regular. Her son was studying in a private school in town.

“Is your son's leg alright?” Su Xiaoxiao asked.

The aunt smiled and said, “Speaking of which, I really have to thank you. Your method is very useful, and the seaweed you recommended is also delicious. My son has been eating for half a month and his legs haven't gone weak again!”

Su Xiaoxiao had actually never seen the other party's son. She heard the auntie's description and felt that his limbs were weak and he had suddenly lost strength. Perhaps he was not seriously ill, but he lacked some trace elements.

Hence, she suggested that he ate more potatoes and seaweed.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “He can also eat more longans and celery.”

“Okay! I'll remember it!” The aunt accepted the snacks and paid 75 copper coins. “Miss, you seem to have lost a lot of weight. Are you tired from setting up the stall too early?”

Yesterday, a few old customers said that she was thinner than before. It seemed that the effect of losing weight was more obvious than expected.

“Don't tire yourself out too much.” The aunt thought for a moment and said, “But if you do look better after losing a little weight.”

Su Xiaoxiao smiled.

When the waiter came over to chase Su Xiaoxiao away, dozens of Su Xiaoxiao's pancakes had already been sold. There were more people queuing up than at the entrance of Jin Ji.

The waiter was furious and shouted angrily, “Go, go, go! Who allowed you to set up a stall here!”

The guests looked at him.

Su Xiaoxiao said unhurriedly, “Who allowed me to put it up? It's naturally the heavens, the heavens, and the laws of the Great Zhou!”

The waiter's eyebrows twitched. “What nonsense are you talking about!”

Su Xiaoxiao was neither servile nor overbearing as she said, “Did I say anything wrong? Firstly, I didn't burn, kill, or commit arson. Thirdly, I didn't occupy any shops. I worked hard to earn some money with my own hands. Why can't I set up a stall!”

The waiter pointed angrily. “This is Jin Ji's territory!”

Su Xiaoxiao chuckled. “I'm at least ten feet away from Jinji. Did your Jinji buy this alley too? Or does the entire street belong to your Jin Ji!”

“Aiya, what's wrong with your Jin Ji? There are so many stalls on the streets, but you didn't chase them away. You came to chase them away when they were selling snacks! Or did you just bully honest people?”

“Your Jin Ji's snacks are expensive and disgusting. Yet you don't allow others who make cheap and good ones to be here? Who gave your Jin Ji the guts?”

“That's right! Hurry up and leave! You're delaying us from buying snacks!”

“Get lost!”

An old man gave the waiter a kick.

The waiter was dejected and went back to report angrily.

“Manager He, why don't we just smash their stall!”

Manager He pushed open the window and looked coldly at the thriving stall downstairs. He recognized a few old clients of Jin Ji.

One was Minister Zhao's servant, and the other was Lord Chen's chef.

It was not a wise move to smash the stall now.

In less than an hour, the 300 pancakes were sold out. Even ones meant for Su Ergou's food broadcast were bought.

There was no choice. When a child cried, Su Ergou's heart softened and he sold it.

“Sister, where are we going now?”

“Back to the village.”

“Huh?”

“Liu Ping went to deliver the goods from the market and the academy.”

She had asked Liu Ping to return to the village after sending them off. There was no need to pick them up, but according to the speed at which they sold snacks, they would probably go back earlier than Liu Ping.

“Heh! I forgot about Brother Liu Ping.” Su Ergou scratched his head.

The siblings put away the stall, carried their baskets, and walked back.

This distance was nothing to the two of them, especially after shaking off 20 pounds of fat. Su Xiaoxiao felt that her body was much lighter.

The two of them left the town. When they approached the upper village road, a group of burly men chased after them fiercely.

“The persons in front, stop right there!”

Chapter 114

Su Ergou looked back and asked Su Xiaoxiao, “Sister, are they talking to us?”

There seemed to be no one else here other than them.

Su Xiaoxiao nodded calmly. “I think so.”

What would come would come. Jin Ji couldn't scare them, but they didn't dare to chase them away violently on the streets, so they began to play dirty tricks.

From Manager Sun to Manager He, none of them were easy to deal with.

However, it was obvious that this new Manager He was more arrogant, domineering, and unscrupulous than Shopkeeper Sun.

“Damn it! Didn't I tell you to stop? Are you deaf or stupid!”

Seeing that the siblings were ignoring them, the other party's tone became even more unfriendly.

Su Xiaoxiao calculated in her heart that there were still at least three miles between here and the village. She couldn't run faster. After all, even if she lost 20 pounds, she was still 180 pounds.

Putting aside whether she could escape or not, her knees would probably be crippled after running.

Then she could only force it.

Su Xiaoxiao stopped and turned to look at them.

Seeing Su Xiaoxiao stop, Su Ergou also turned around.

He had fought since he was young. Was he afraid? No way!

Su Xiaoxiao's gaze swept across the other party. Unexpectedly, she found a few familiar faces.

A few of them came out with Manager Sun last time and pressed Su Ergou to the ground. The leader was not around.

This time, the leader was a scar-faced man. The person who had spoken ruthlessly to the siblings just now was the triangular-eyed subordinate beside him.

“Sister, I think they're the ones from last time.” Su Ergou also recognized them. “But not all of them.”

This was not surprising. Not all people in the underworld were united.

“Girl,” the scar-faced man said, “you guys are very bold.”

Su Xiaoxiao chuckled. “We're just a little bolder than you cowardly things.”

Cowardly things?

All the hooligans were shocked. Was this something a girl could say? Was she really not a man?

Su Ergou gave his sister a thumbs up. “Sister! Good scolding!”

The scar-faced man's expression turned very ugly.

The triangular-eyed subordinate beside him scolded sternly, “Who are you calling a coward? Do you believe that I'll beat you to death!”

Su Ergou placed his hands on his hips. “Come on! If you have the ability, come and beat me! I'm waiting! If you don't come, you're a bastard!”

“You!” The triangular-eyed man was furious.

The scar-faced man raised his hand to stop him from rushing over. He said to Su Xiaoxiao, “Girl, it's not good to make enemies everywhere at such a young age. You know that you've offended someone you shouldn't have, right?”

The triangular-eyed man said, “Brother, why are you talking so much nonsense with them? Let me teach them a lesson! Let's teach them a lesson!”

The scar-faced man continued, “As long as you agree not to do business in town anymore and kowtow to us a few times, I might consider being gentler.”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Cut the crap. If you want to fight, go ahead.”

Su Ergou said loudly, “That's right! If you want to fight, fight! Are you a man?!”

“Who the hell are you insulting!” The triangular-eyed man was completely enraged. Without waiting for his brother to speak, he raised his fist and pounced at Su Ergou.

Although Su Ergou was young, his reaction speed was not slow.

He waited for the other party to approach and dodged the other party's fist. At the same time, he threw a punch at the other party's abdomen!

The triangular-eyed man took a few steps back!

“Kid!” He covered his painful stomach and looked at Su Ergou in shock and anger. “Rascal! You're courting death!”

The scar-faced man could tell that Su Ergou was not easy to deal with. “You guys go too.”

The few hooligans who had fought Su Ergou rushed forward and planned to use the same trick again. Just like last time, they used their bodies as sandbags to press Su Ergou to the ground.

Su Xiaoxiao was already prepared. She raised her chubby leg and kicked the hooligan at the front away!

Then, she raised her fat fists and punched them one by one. She was not a thin young man like Su Ergou. Her chubby fists were very strong.

“Gosh!”

A hooligan's teeth flew out!

“Ugh!”

The other hooligan's bile came out—

“Sister! Good job!”

As Su Ergou fought with others, he did not forget to praise his sister. He could be said to be a fan.

The siblings caught the hooligans off guard, but this was only the first wave of hooligans. The scar-faced man and the other five men had yet to attack.

Su Xiaoxiao could clearly feel that their breathing was different from the other hooligans.

They were real martial artists!

“Brother!” The triangular-eyed man was beaten beyond recognition by Su Ergou.

The scar-faced man finally moved. He gestured, and the five people behind him flashed forward!

Su Xiaoxiao's eyes turned cold!

What speed!

This was not an ordinary hooligan. He was the guard of an important family!

If Manager Sun only brought a few hooligans to scare her and Su Ergou, then Manager He really wanted to teach the siblings a lesson!

The men could tell that Su Xiaoxiao was better at fighting than Su Ergou. They exchanged glances and surrounded Su Xiaoxiao.

“Stay away from my sister! Don't touch her!”

Su Ergou was furious. In the end, he punched the triangular-eyed man, stood up, and pounced at them.

However, before he could get close, one of the hooligans grabbed his arm.

The other party pinned his hands behind his back and pressed him to the ground, placing a knee on his lower back.

This position restrained all of Su Ergou's strength, making him unable to resist.

Su Xiaoxiao's eyes darkened. “Ergou!”

Among the five of them, one went to subdue Su Ergou, and the other four surrounded her.

The scar-faced man came to Su Ergou's side and stepped on his right wrist. “Girl, surrender. Otherwise, I'll break his wrist!”

He began to exert force with his feet, and Su Ergou's face revealed a pained expression.

“To hell with you!” Su Xiaoxiao was not threatened! She decisively grabbed the basket behind her and threw it at the person in front!

The scar-faced man suddenly raised his foot.

Su Xiaoxiao used unimaginable speed and charged at the scar-faced man like a small cannon.

The scar-faced man was ruthlessly sent flying. Su Xiaoxiao also fell hard, her mind buzzing!

A hooligan grabbed the stick on the ground to hit the back of Su Xiaoxiao's head!

Su Ergou's expression changed drastically. “Sister!”

At the critical moment, a rolling pin flew through the air and hit the hooligan's back knee.

The hooligan cried out and fell to his knees, the stick falling from his hand.

It was Su Cheng!

He was holding a butcher knife and looking fierce!

“You bullied my daughter! Do you all want to die?”

Chapter 115

The scar-faced man frowned.

Where did this man come from?

Did he throw a rolling pin just now? He was so far away, but he was actually so accurate!

Was that a butcher knife in his hand? What kind of weapon was this?

Father Su's arrival made Su Ergou shout, “Dad, Dad! You're here!”

Su Cheng walked past his son, to the amazement of the hooligan on top of Su Ergou.

Su Cheng helped his fat daughter up from the ground. His expression changed instantly as he asked dotingly, “Daughter, are you alright?”

Everyone was dumbfounded. Where was his stance?

Su Xiaoxiao said calmly, “I'm fine.”

Old Master Su said domineeringly, “Rest at the side and let Dad deal with this group of trash!”

“Dad, give this to me.” Su Xiaoxiao pointed at the slingshot hanging on his waist.

This was Xiaohu's slingshot which was confiscated when Xiaohu didn't focus on pooping. He had brought it out when he went out and did not notice it.

“Alright, play with it.” Father Su handed the slingshot to Su Xiaoxiao.

Father Su first saved Su Ergou, who did not go to the side to sit and play with the slingshot.

Father Su said, “Fight against one and a half. Leave the rest to me.”

Su Ergou said in a daze, “Dad, why one and a half?”

Old Master Su pointed at the hooligan kneeling on the ground. “I injured his knee, so it's inconvenient for him to move. He can only be considered half a hooligan!”

Su Ergou muttered, “Oh.”

The father and son fought two against five.

Su Cheng did not formally learn martial arts from others. He figured it out himself. His moves were very complicated, but they were practical.

Su Ergou had inherited his father's fighting style. He did not put on any airs, but his fists hit the flesh.

A hooligan quietly approached Su Ergou from behind. Su Ergou stepped on his instep, grabbed his wrist, and threw him over his shoulder to the ground!

Old Master Su exclaimed, “What was that move just now?”

Su Ergou said, “Brother-in-law taught me. I don't know what it's called!”

Yes, his son-in-law was really capable! He would go back and give his son-in-law a drumstick!

“Howl!” Father Su was kicked in the butt.

Su Xiaoxiao held her forehead. “Dad, don't be distracted! You're fighting with someone!”

The few people who had been beaten up by Su Xiaoxiao regained their strength and started to stir up trouble.

They could not defeat him, but they could still pester the father and son so that they could not unleash their greatest strength.

Su Xiaoxiao weighed the slingshot in her hand and picked up a small stone from the ground. She shot it out!

Studying medicine was an acquired effort, but her physical fitness and talent for shooting were innate. They seemed to be engraved in her brain waves.

She hit accurately no matter how tricky the angle was!

The moment the hooligans got up, their legs went numb. They really did not dare to show off anymore.

Seeing that the people he brought over were gradually at a disadvantage, the scar-faced man joined in the fight.

To be able to take charge of so many underlings, the scar-faced man was indeed capable. He created problems for Su Cheng.Moreover, he also noticed Su Xiaoxiao, who was attacking from the side. He cunningly locked his position between Su Cheng and Su Ergou, not giving Su Xiaoxiao a chance to hit him with a slingshot.

After a while, Su Ergou and Father Su both took a few punches. But the scar-faced man took even more.

At this moment, the scar-faced man noticed Father Su's flaw!

He was using his left hand!

Moreover, he had been avoiding using his right hand!

He was not left-handed! His right hand was injured!

The scar-faced man was overjoyed. No matter how powerful an opponent was, he would be no different from an ordinary person once his flaw was discovered!

The scar-faced man used a feint and used one hand to twist Su Cheng's left hand that was holding the butcher knife.

His right hand suddenly punched Su Cheng's spleen!

Su Cheng's right hand was injured, so he definitely could not withstand this move. Once his spleen ruptured, what awaited him was only death from excessive blood loss!

However, at this moment, something unexpected happened!

Su Cheng's right hand clenched into a fist and met his iron fist!

Crack!

Crack, crack, crack!

The scar-faced man heard the sound of bones cracking!

There was more than one!

Success!

He had crippled this man's hand completely…

Wait, no.

The man raised his right fist again which sped towards his face!

How was that possible?

Hadn't his hand already…

It was not until he fell to the ground with blood gushing out of his nose and the pain in his face mixed with the intense pain in his left hand that the scar-faced man realized that it was his hand that had broken!

How could…

His observation would not be wrong!

This man's right hand was injured!

Habits did not lie! That was not an act!

But why did his fist receive a blow from the other party's injured hand? He even broke his bones!

“Ha!”

Su Ergou jumped over and knocked the scar-faced man out with a rolling pin!

Seeing that the situation was hopeless, the remaining few pretended to be dead or fled.

Su Cheng didn't chase after them, nor did he let Su Ergou chase after them. Firstly, they were all small fries. The big ones had already been beaten up by him. More importantly, his daughter was still here. Protecting her was the most important!

“Dad.”

Su Xiaoxiao stood up and dusted off her pants. She quickly walked over and looked at his right hand. “Is your hand alright?”

She was also shocked by the punch just now.

To be able to break the scar-faced man's hand, it could be seen that Father Su was ruthless.

She was very worried that Old Master Su's hand, which she had painstakingly nourished, would relapse.

Old Master Su moved his wrist. “I think I'm fine.”

“Really? Let me see.” Su Xiaoxiao gently grabbed his wrist and pressed it repeatedly on his acupoints. “Does it hurt?”

“It doesn't hurt!” Old Master Su said.

“Does it feel numb?” Su Xiaoxiao asked.

Old Master Su sensed it carefully and shook his head. “No!”

Su Xiaoxiao checked carefully from his wrist to his knuckles and then to his fingertips.

Father Su looked at his hand in a daze. “Daughter, my hand… seems to have really recovered.”

The punch just now was due to his survival instinct. After punching out, he was actually prepared to be crippled again.

He had thought that he had wasted the medicine his daughter had bought for nothing. She must have spent a lot of money…

Su Xiaoxiao held his hand. “Dad! Let's go back quickly!”

She couldn't wait to test Father Su's grip and wrist strength!

Father Su said, “Hey, hey, hey, but these people… ”

Su Xiaoxiao pulled her father forward quickly. “Don't worry about them!”

Compared to a few hooligans looking for trouble, Father Su's recovery was naturally the most important!

She was looking forward to a satisfactory result!

“Wait!” Father Su raised his hand solemnly.

“What?” Su Xiaoxiao was confused.

Old Master Su walked to everyone and plundered their silver. There was not a single copper coin left. It was obvious that he was experienced!

Old Master Su raised his eyebrows in satisfaction. “Alright, we can leave now!”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Ergou, follow me.”

Su Ergou grabbed the basket on the ground. “Alright!”

Old Master Su turned around and reminded, “Don't forget the rolling pin!”

It could still be used after washing. It would cost five copper coins to buy a new one!

Chapter 116

Not long after the group left, a man in black also left like a ghost behind a big tree not far away.

“My Lord.”

In the backyard of the Su family, the man in black knelt on one knee and bowed respectfully to Wei Ting.

The three little ones sat beside Wei Ting and combed the fur of the little horse.

The little horse was very obedient but they were more obedient. They were their mother's favorite obedient babies.

The three little ones did not react much to the arrival of the man in black. They seemed to be used to it and were not interested.

On the other hand, the man in black looked at the three little ones in shock and did not dare to recognize them for a moment.

In his memory, the three young masters were thin and small. They looked malnourished and were constantly afraid. Their eyes were filled with fear.

Now, they were more like ordinary children. They were raised to be fair, tender, and carefree.

“How's the matter I asked you to do?” Wei Ting asked indifferently.

The man in black said in a low voice, “I… didn't attack.”

Wei Ting frowned. “Why?”

The man in black said aggrievedly, “It's not that I was unwilling, but… but I didn't have a chance.”

What kind of freaks made up that family? They were clearly country bumpkins, but why were they so good at fighting?

He had even prepared his lines. “When you see injustice, help! You don't have to thank me! See you in the martial world!”

Then, he would leave with a suave and impressive back view! That was the peak of heroes!

However—that family did not give him a chance to show off at all!

Wei Ting was not too surprised by this. “You can leave.”

“My Lord!”

“They're back.”

The man in black disappeared with a whoosh!

If Niudan was here, he would definitely be stunned. However, the three little ones were very calm and continued to comb the fur of the little horse.

After Su Xiaoxiao arrived home, she first enjoyed the three cute children's one-stop service package—kissing, hugging, and raising them high.

She kissed, hugged, and raised them high!

Alright, who was serving who?

Then, she began to test the grip and wrist strength of Father Su's right hand.

She did not have any professional precision instruments on hand, but the ancients had their own methods. When Father Su practiced in the past, he used clay, wooden blocks, stones, and weights.

Before he was injured, his grip was quite shocking. He could easily crush a stone.

After being injured, he could not even crush an egg.

It was effortless for Su Xiaoxiao to find clay.

Su Xiaoxiao found another tender bamboo tube and Father Su used some strength to successfully crush it!

He used greater effort with an old bamboo but no matter how hard he tried, he did not feel any discomfort.

Su Xiaoxiao asked him to try holding the weights again.

The weight was only 20 catties. The three little ones hung themselves on the weight. One was 25 catties, and Old Master Su could hold two.

Including the weight of the weight, he held 70 pounds!

To a patient whose hand had been crippled for many years, this was simply a surprise!

The grip during the fight just now was definitely more than 70 pounds. Of course, there was a difference between punching and gripping. In addition, the potential that erupted under danger just now did not represent his usual state.

But Su Cheng was confident!

The day of grabbing a 200-pound saber was getting closer and closer!

“The medicine in the pharmacy is really useful…”

Su Xiaoxiao made up her mind. No matter what, she had to get the third bottle of Bone Strengthening Granules for Father Su!

Perhaps he could break through 200 pounds. Perhaps Father Su would become a peerless expert.

Alright, she was thinking too much.

However, after recovering, it was very necessary to consolidate the healing effect with a bottle of medicine.

Old Master Su's injuries seemed to have washed away the bad luck brought about by the Jin Ji incident. The family was happy and went about their business.

Su Xiaoxiao went to the kitchen to cook.

Wei Ting walked in with his walking stick. “Don't you want to say anything?”

Su Xiaoxiao took out the cutting board from the cupboard. “What?”

Wei Ting said, “You offended the largest snack shop in town. Did you encounter anything today?”

Su Xiaoxiao nodded. “You mean that? They sent people to ambush us, but we won.”

Wei Ting said indifferently, “You only won once. It's hard to guarantee that they won't come a second or third time. Aren't you worried that they have a backup plan?”

Su Xiaoxiao grabbed a washed sweet potato and began to cut it. “If I'm worried, will they let it go? No, right? So look, I could pass a day being worried or carefree. Likewise, I could pass a day being happy or depressed. Why don't we choose to face it squarely? We should be thinking of a way. Being afraid is the most energy-consuming and useless emotion in the world. Besides, isn't there a saying that advocates dealing with whatever comes our way? I'm so smart. Why would I be afraid of a small Jin Ji?”

If she could not even settle Jin Ji, she could forget about doing any big business in the future. She should go home and lie flat!

It was rare that Wei Ting did not retort her.

Su Xiaoxiao blinked and looked at Wei Ting with sparkling eyes. “Are my words very philosophical? Are they very touching? Are you impressed by me and regret not meeting me earlier?”

Wei Ting was speechless.

This matter at Jin Ji was not over.

Su Xiaoxiao closed her stall at the end of the morning. The thugs sent by Manager He chased after her 15 minutes later.

Manager He was very confident.

There were a few experts he had spent a lot of money to hire from the prefecture capital. They were specially hired as guards for families with status in the prefecture capital. They were originally used to show off, but he did not expect them to be used to deal with a pair of siblings from the countryside.

It was really an overkill.

However, in the evening, when Jin Ji was about to close, those people did not return to report to him.

He called his trusted assistant over. “Where are they?”

The waiter said, “Maybe they're on the way?”

Manager He said coldly, “Didn't you say that they don't live far away?”

The waiter muttered, “Perhaps the information I asked for was wrong.”

As they spoke, the triangular-eyed man went upstairs in a sorry state.

Seeing his appearance, Shopkeeper He and the waiter's eyebrows twitched.

“What happened to you?” The waiter asked.

The triangular-eyed man told him everything.

Manager He looked suspicious. “They're just three country bumpkins. Are you really not lying to me?”

The triangular-eyed man swore to the heavens, “If I say anything false, I will never have a son in my life!”

Manager He was furious.

It was fine if a few local hooligans lost, but there were experts he had brought from the prefecture city in the group. Had they actually not beaten three country bumpkins?

A kid, a fatty, and a… farmer carrying a butcher knife.

No matter how he thought about it, it was unbelievable!

Shopkeeper He was in a terrible mood!

It never rains but pours. Jin Ji was in big trouble!

Their egg yolks were gone! They could not make egg yolk pastries anymore!

Manager He said impatiently, “If you can't make it, so be it! Aren't there other snacks? It's not like the whole business of Jin Ji is gone!”

The accountant reminded him, “But didn't we take on Minister Qi's business? Minister Qi's mother is celebrating her seventieth birthday. The snacks were handed to our Jin Ji to make. Among them are wife pancakes and egg yolk pastries. Minister Qi specifically asked for them.”

Manager He frowned. “When did you accept it?”

The accountant replied, “When Manager Sun was around.”

Minister Qi was the most respected master in Apricot Flower Town. He was rich, and his son was an official in the prefecture capital. Even the county magistrate did not dare to be impudent in front of him.

It was obvious that if they messed up the Qi family's birthday banquet, Jin Ji would be in trouble.

Chapter 117

After doing business for so many years, Manager He had learned a principle: never overestimate a person's kindness.

Don't think that just because those nobles were famous for their philanthropy, they could really support the ship.

Sometimes, the more well-regarded such people were, the more they would not allow their subordinates to make mistakes.

Moreover, this was not an ordinary snack. Minister Qi had asked for it. Perhaps his mother liked it. Would it be fine if it was missing from the birthday banquet?

Manager He asked, “How many days are left until the birthday banquet?”

The accountant said, “Three days.”

Manager He's face darkened. “Why didn't you say so earlier?”

If he had said so earlier, he would have endured the siblings for the time being!

The accountant thought to himself that this was something that he had instructed before the new year. The kitchen remembered it and would do it on the day. There was no need for Manager He to worry!

However, who would have thought that on his first day in office, he would offend the siblings who were supplying them?

Over the years, disregarding whether Manager Sun's methods were honorable or not, his management was well done, and the entire Jin Ji was well managed.

It was purely Manager He's fault.

Manager He asked with a headache, “How many of the salted egg yolks are left?”

The accountant braced himself and said, “There's not a single one left.”

Manager He said coldly, “Didn't they just provide the goods?”

The accountant said helplessly, “They supplied a hundred and we finished it long ago! The chefs tried two and sold the rest yesterday. There were guests today who came to ask why the egg yolk pastry was gone.”

Manager He was so angry that he slammed his fist on the table!

Su Xiaoxiao didn't know that her sanction, which she thought wouldn't create a dent, had coincidentally pressed down on Jin Ji's throat.

She was counting her things in the small basket.

She patted her forehead. “I forgot to send the red dates and silver ear fungus I brought back from Aunt Fu yesterday to Su Yuniang!”

“Dad! Ergou! Dahu, Erhu, Xiaohu! I'm going out for a while!”

In the central room, Wei Ting, the only one who was not addressed, had a dark expression.

It was especially lively at the Su family today. The Zheng family of Shallow Water Village had come. It was Su Yuniang's husband, Zheng Yuanbo, and her eldest sister-in-law, Zheng Lanxiu.

There were more or less some rumors in the village about Su Yuniang giving birth to a child in her maiden family for the new year. Because villagers remembered the Su family's past kindness, they did not go overboard in their gossip, but no one knew what they were thinking.

The Su family's door was open, and Su Xiaoxiao walked in.

The central room was empty, and there was no one there. However, the conversation kept coming from Su Yuniang's room.

“…Yu Niang, your child has been born. The New Year is over. It's time to go back.”

Su Xiaoxiao had some impression of this voice. It should be from Su Yuniang's eldest sister-in-law, Zheng Lanxiu.

“You've been away from home for a while and Brother Xing misses you badly, right, Brother Xing?”

“Ah, yes, yes! Yu Niang, come back with me!”

“If you want me to go back with you, get rid of that bitch first!”

Bitch?

She seemed to have heard something extraordinary.

Su Xiaoxiao continued to prick up her ears.

It would be a waste not to listen to the gossip that she had chanced upon!

Zheng Lanxiu said earnestly, “Yuniang, listen to Eldest Sister's truth. Brother Xing doesn't have anyone else in his heart. He took her in because he saw that she was pitiful. Who would have thought that she would seduce Brother Xing… Brother Xing was confused for a moment and regretted it after that. Brother Xing wanted to send her away, but she became pregnant… The two elders at home didn't agree, so he kept her for the time being.”

“But don't worry, Brother Xing is sincere with you. You're Brother Xing's legitimate wife. No one can surpass you! When the child is born in the future, it will be under your name and she will be sent away immediately!”

Su Yuniang said agitatedly, “Let her go now! Also, I don't want her child! Tell them to get lost!”

After that, Zheng Lanxiu patiently persuaded her a few more times. Su Yuniang didn't listen to a word and only said, “Get that woman out of the Zheng family with the bastard in her belly!”

Zheng Lanxiu was finally forced into a corner. She revealed her true colors and said bitterly, “You can't give birth to a son yourself, so you can't let others do it? Do you want to cut off our Zheng family's bloodline? You only got pregnant after being married for three years. What did I think you could give birth to? It's still a… ”

Before she could finish, Su Xiaoxiao heard her scream.

In the next second, Zheng Lanxiu covered the bump on her forehead and ran out in a sorry state.

“Su Yuniang! Just stay at your maiden home! Let's see how long you can stay! Brother Xing! Let's go!”

Zheng Lanxiu grabbed her brother's hand and scolded as she walked, “Why did you marry such an unreasonable shrew back then!”

The two of them brushed past Su Xiaoxiao.

Brother Xing lowered his head and looked like a good-for-nothing. Zheng Lanxiu glanced at Su Xiaoxiao. In her anger, she ignored everyone and left without looking back!

“Hey! Lanxiu!”

Madam Fang chased after her.

“Do not chase after them!”

Su Yuniang said angrily.

“You!” Madam Fang glared at her daughter and turned around to see Su Xiaoxiao in the central room.

Mdm Fang was stunned, and a trace of panic flashed across her eyes. However, she looked at Zheng Lanxiu, who was sitting in the ox cart, and ignored Su Xiaoxiao as she chased after her in-laws.

When Su Xiaoxiao entered the room, Su Yuniang was covering her face and crying bitterly.

Hearing someone enter, Su Yuniang immediately took a deep breath and let go, pretending that she had never cried.

She looked up and saw Su Xiaoxiao. She was shocked and seemed to have other emotions.

“Why are you here?” She wiped her tears and asked coldly.

Su Xiaoxiao thought for a moment and tilted her head. “Seeing you make a fool of yourself?”

Su Yuniang glared at Su Xiaoxiao.

Su Xiaoxiao spread her hands. “You wouldn't believe me if I said I wasn't.”

She walked forward and handed her a small basket.

“What?” Su Yuniang's tone was normal, but her voice was still choked.

“Dried red dates and dried silver ear fungus to nourish blood and qi. Also.” Su Xiaoxiao glanced at her. “You haven't gone to the toilet for a few days, right?”

Su Yuniang choked.

Constipation after giving birth was one of the most common postpartum conditions, and the silver ear fungus was rich in dietary fiber and promoted intestinal peristalsis.

“If eating silver ear fungus isn't enough, try this plum.” Su Xiaoxiao handed her a jar of sweet plums.

This kind of plum was similar to the prune she had eaten in her previous life. The effect and taste were similar. It was a specialty of the Great Zhou.

Well… Aunt Fu really had a lot of good stuff!

Su Xiaoxiao tapped the jar with her fingertip. “A friendly reminder not to trust any of your farts.”

Su Yuniang and Madam Fang were stunned.

Su Xiaoxiao waved her hand. “I'm leaving. I still have to send some to Sister Chunxiu.”

Su Yuniang looked at her. “Why did you send it to me first?”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Your house is close! My house is at the end of the village, and the Li family lives at the entrance. Your Su family is in the middle. If I don't send it to you on the way, wouldn't I have to make a big detour? Wouldn't it be tiring!”

Su Yuniang said, “Aren't you trying to slim down?”

Su Xiaoxiao caved in. She said with a fake smile, “I care about you, Su Yuniang. In my heart, you are more important than Sister Chunxiu, okay?”

Su Yuniang sneered and said, “I thought you didn't want to return my money.”

Su Xiaoxiao's eyes darted around. “Uh… can I not return it?”

Chapter 118

It was impossible not to.

Su Yuniang smiled faintly. “If you please me, I can consider not charging you interest.”

Just as Su Yuniang was thinking about whether this little fatty would put aside her pride, Su Xiaoxiao's expression changed in a second and she said obsequiously, “Aiya, Yu Niang, are you thirsty? Are you hungry? How is your life? Tell me if you have any difficulties.”

Su Yuniang and Madam Fang were stunned.

After leaving the Su family, Su Xiaoxiao went to Old Li's house and gave the red dates and silver ear fungus to Madam Qian, telling her how to brew them.

“Don't add too much sugar. You must use less sugar!” She instructed.

The instruction was not intended to help her lose weight, but for health reasons. It was really not good to consume too much sugar.

“Got it.” Madam Qian no longer doubted Fatty Su's medical skills. She would listen to whatever Fatty Su said.

Madam Qian brought Su Xiaoxiao a basket of fresh vegetables.

Su Xiaoxiao didn't stand on ceremony and happily carried the vegetables home.

When she arrived home, she realized that there was an additional mother and son in the central room.

It was Wang Laizi's neighbor.

Madam Luo was in her mid-twenties. She had many children and led a bitter life. She looked to be in her thirties.

She had a six-year-old boy in her arms.

The mother and son's eyes were red and their bodies were trembling. It was obvious that they were very afraid, but they had to hold back their fear.

“Daughter, you're back?” Su Cheng said, “A fish bone was lodged in Goudan's throat. The family made him drink vinegar and swallow food. It still hurts.”

The news that Fatty Su knew medicine had spread in the village for a while, but the villagers were afraid of her former infamy and did not dare to visit her.

Other than Su Yuniang, this mother and son were the first.

Su Xiaoxiao walked toward the mother and son. “Let me take a look.”

The mother and son cowered.

Su Xiaoxiao wondered if she was that scary.

They were clearly so afraid, but they still came to look for her. It could be seen that Goudan's situation was a little serious.

“Give me the child,” Su Xiaoxiao said to Madam Luo.

“She asked you to give her the child!” Su Cheng said.

Mdm Luo trembled and was about to cry. She regretted it. Why did she bring her son to the bully's house? Could they stop the consultation now?

Su Xiaoxiao brought Goudan into her room. Goudan was so frightened that he didn't dare to cry.

“Don't be afraid,” Su Xiaoxiao said.

She opened the first-aid kit and took out the disposable tongue-pressing board and forceps. “Open your mouth and let me see.”

Goudan didn't dare to.

Su Xiaoxiao shouted, “Dahu, Erhu, Xiaohu!”

The three little ones ran in. “Mom!”

Su Xiaoxiao said to the three of them, “Open your mouth and let Mom check.”

The three of them raised their heads, flapped their small arms, and opened their mouths obediently. “Ah… ”

Su Xiaoxiao checked the three of them and handed three candied dates she had prepared to the three little ones. “Alright, your little teeth are very healthy today. Go play.”

The three of them were extremely happy to be praised by their mother and skipped out!

“Look, it doesn't hurt, right?” Su Xiaoxiao said to Goudan, “I'm just checking. I'm not doing anything.”

Goudan glanced at Su Xiaoxiao's table and slowly walked over.

“Open your mouth.”

“Very good. Ah.”

“Ah… ”

Swoosh!

Su Xiaoxiao's tweezers were as fast as lightning. Before Goudan could react, the fishbone was taken out.

Su Xiaoxiao handed him a candied date. “You did well. You were very brave.”

Goudan grabbed the candied date and ran out excitedly.

Mdm Luo hugged her son and looked him up and down. “Are you alright?”

“Mom! It doesn't hurt anymore!” Gou Dan raised the candied plum in his hand. “Fat Sister gave it to me.”

Mdm Luo was shocked.

Was… was it really given by Fatty Su?

Fatty Su actually gave candy to children?

People always paid attention to strange things. Madam Luo should be surprised that Fat Lass Su cured her son, but Madam Luo could not forget the joy of her son running towards her with the candied plum.

Children could not hide their emotions.

Indeed, children were easy to coax.

The problem was, why should Fatty Su coax Goudan? Was it so that Fatty Su could collect more consultation fees or extort a few more copper coins?

Extortion… extortion of copper coins?

Could it be that Fatty Su would sell her a candied plum for more than ten copper coins?

Fatty Su had done this before and the villagers had suffered!

“I, I…” Madam Luo only had three copper coins.

“Anything else?” Su Xiaoxiao asked strangely.

“Huh?” Mdm Luo was stunned.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “If there's nothing else, I'm going to work.”

Was she not accepting her money?!

Old Master Su walked over and pointed at Madam Luo domineeringly. “Two copper coins!”

Mdm Luo was stunned

After Liu Ping delivered the goods, the donkey rushed back to the village.

“Daya! Are you and Ergou alright!”

He guessed that Jin Ji would most likely find trouble with the siblings today. He thought he would look for them after sending the goods, taking the braised meat money, and retrieving the pre-ordered list. Unexpectedly, the siblings had already finished selling and returned to the village.

“I'm fine, Brother Liu.” Su Xiaoxiao came out of the backyard.

“Are you really fine?” Liu Ping expressed his suspicion.

Su Xiaoxiao smiled. “I'm really fine.”

Liu Ping looked at her and then at Su Ergou. Su Ergou's wrist was slightly bruised, but it was nothing serious.

“…I'll punch one!” Ergou told Liu Ping how he had defeated a nest of hooligans. Liu Ping's heart skipped a beat.

“Go to work!” Su Xiaoxiao said solemnly.

“Alright, Sister!” Su Ergou obediently went to chop firewood.

Liu Ping thought to himself that fortunately, this family was made up of born bullies. Otherwise, how could they have defeated so many hooligans?

The next day, Su Xiaoxiao brought Su Ergou to the usual place to set up a stall.

The waiter who had chased them away yesterday walked over again.

Su Ergou's fist itched. If not for the fact that there were so many guests present, he would have beaten this kid into a pig on the streets!

“Hey, you guys… ”

“Go away! Don't you know that there's a queue!”

The waiter was about to speak when he was pushed aside by an aunt.

“Where did this person come from? Can't you see that everyone is queuing up? If you want to eat snacks, queue up at the back!”

“Exactly!”

The guests crowded the venue, and the waiter did not even have the chance to get close to Su Xiaoxiao to talk.

After the waiter received countless looks of disdain, Su Xiaoxiao sold out the 200 pancakes she had set up today.

The siblings began to close the stall.

The waiter finally seized the opportunity to speak to Su Xiaoxiao. He couldn't be bothered to waste his breath on them and asked directly, “I say, have you forgotten something? You haven't supplied Jin Ji for two days!”

She had seen shameless people, but she had never seen anyone so shameless. After causing trouble for them repeatedly, he could actually question them openly for not supplying them.

If the Great Wall was made with the skin of Jin Ji, Lady Meng Jiang would probably not be able to cause any damage to the wall with her tears.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Don't you know why?”

Chapter 119

The waiter pretended to be confused. “How would I know what's wrong with you? We agreed that you would supply no more than a hundred egg yolks a day, no less than thirty. It's only been a few days, and you're already going back on your word?”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Your ability to accuse others is really unheard of! When did I agree to supply you every day? Do you have evidence?”

“You!”

Manager Sun had been careful when he discussed cooperation with Su Xiaoxiao.

The two sides were competitors. He was worried that Su Xiaoxiao would supply the bad salted egg yolks to Jin Ji and keep the good ones for herself. Therefore, he decided to try out the arrangement for a while to confirm the quality of the supplied salted egg yolks before signing an official purchase document with Su Xiaoxiao.

Therefore, Jin Ji could not furnish any contract to ask Su Xiaoxiao for supplies. Otherwise, they would have gotten her to compensate for the huge breach of contract.

The waiter left dejectedly.

“Shopkeeper He, they won't agree to resume the supply.”

In the room on the second floor, he related the conversation with Su Xiaoxiao honestly. He did not add fuel to the fire, mainly because it was not worth it. Su Xiaoxiao's original words were enough to anger him.

The day after tomorrow was Minister Qi's birthday banquet. They had to get the ingredients tomorrow night at the latest.

Manager He's expression changed.

The waiter probed, “Why don't we use force?”

Manager He rolled his eyes at him.

If using force worked, it would have worked yesterday. He would not have to see the annoying siblings this morning.

After saying that, the waiter realized that he had said something wrong. The people they had sent out came back injured and swollen. Everyone was crying. Acting tough would not work.

He said awkwardly, “Why don't we buy it elsewhere?”

Manager He looked at him as if he was a fool. “Other places? Do you mean the capital?”

It would take him ten days to half a month to reach the capital from here. By the time he bought the salted egg yolks, it would be too late!

“This won't do and that won't do. What should we do?” The waiter was completely helpless. After following the shopkeeper for so long, this was the first time he had encountered such a headache.

“Buy them from her!” Manager He said.

“Buy… salted egg yolks?” The waiter asked uncertainly.

Manager He asked impatiently, “Who would want salted egg yolk alone? I can guess that something is wrong!”

The waiter widened his eyes. “Buy a whole salted egg? That's expensive, right?”

Manager He used the lid of the cup to stir the tea leaves in the tea bowl. “It doesn't matter if it's expensive or not. It's fine if we make a small loss. Most importantly, the Qi family's birthday banquet must be foolproof!”

The waiter said bitterly, “She has to agree to sell it… ”

Manager He said calmly, “Just don't let her know that we bought it.”

Downstairs, Su Xiaoxiao and Su Ergou had finished closing the stall. The two of them carried baskets on their backs. Su Ergou grabbed an Ergou pancake and ate it heartily.

“Sister, are you really not going to take a bite? It's very delicious! Your Ergou pancakes are getting better and better!”

Su Xiaoxiao clenched her fists. “You eat it. I want to continue losing weight!”

The meat pancake was very heaty and contained sugar. It was easy to whet one's appetite and one would not be able to stop eating it.

“Let's head back,” she said.

“Yes!” Su Ergou nibbled on the pancake and nodded vaguely.

“Miss! Miss! Please wait!”

A woman with a white jade hairpin waved at Su Xiaoxiao and walked over.

She was in her early forties. She had a kind face and was dressed simply. The material of her attire was not bad.

“May I ask what's the matter?” Su Xiaoxiao asked politely.

The woman smiled and said, “I thought I was late. Fortunately, you haven't left. The pancakes your family sells are better than those in Jin Ji and are cheap.”

“The pancakes are sold out today,” Su Xiaoxiao said.

The woman smiled and said, “I'm not here to buy pancakes. I want to buy salted eggs from you. I've tried your egg yolk pastry. It's made with superior salted egg yolk. It's not inferior to the salted egg yolk I ate in the capital.”

“Have you been to the capital?” Su Xiaoxiao asked.

The woman smiled bitterly. “A few years ago, I followed my husband to the capital to take the exam and stayed for a while. Unfortunately, he failed in the end. My son is more promising than him. He's not even 20 years old and has already been admitted to the county level. He's going to study in the prefecture capital for this year's village examination. I want to buy some salted eggs for him to bring along. I wonder if you sell salted eggs?”

“How many do you want?”

Initially, in order to supply Jin Ji, there were many salted eggs at home.

If someone really wanted to buy them, she could sell them.

“Can I ask the price?” the woman said.

Su Xiaoxiao thought for a moment and said, “One will cost you 18 copper coins. If you buy 50, I can sell them to you for 17 copper coins each.”

The woman exclaimed, “Your egg yolk pastries only sell for 20 copper coins each.”

Su Xiaoxiao explained, “The egg yolk pastry only uses egg yolk. You are buying the entire salted egg. The cost of the salted egg is in the egg white.”

The egg was white and salty. Salt was expensive in ancient times!

“Ah, this…” The woman looked conflicted. “Sell it to me at a cheap price. I'll introduce you to business in the future.”

“How many do you want?” Su Xiaoxiao asked.

“I originally only wanted dozens, but your price…” The woman hesitated for a moment and sighed.” If I buy a hundred, can it be cheaper? ”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Sixteen coins, no less.”

The woman gritted her teeth. “Alright! When can I get the goods?”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “The morning after tomorrow at the latest.”

The woman reminded her, “Then let's make a deal. Miss, you're not allowed to go back on your word! My son happens to be taking the carriage the day after tomorrow.”

Su Xiaoxiao nodded. “Sure.”

The woman went to report to Manager He. “Manager He, it's already done. Sixteen copper coins for one, a total of a hundred. She promised to bring the salted eggs the morning after tomorrow.”

Manager He asked, “Are you sure nothing will go wrong?”

The woman said, “I've already paid the deposit. I think this girl's character is alright. She won't go back on my word.”

The waiter said nonchalantly, “Hmph, if she has a good character, she wouldn't have cut off our supplies!”

The woman remained silent and did not comment.

Manager He gave the waiter a look. The waiter took out a money bag and handed it to the woman.

The woman took it with both hands. “Thank you, Shopkeeper He.”

After the woman left, the waiter said with a smile, “Manager, you're still the best! You found someone from the theater troupe to pretend to be a customer! That girl is kept in the dark. She's probably still feeling smug! When we get the goods the day after tomorrow, we'll deal with that girl!”

At that time, there would be no need to worry about anything. That girl's good days would be over!

In the next two days, Su Xiaoxiao's business at the stall went exceptionally smoothly.

Jin Ji seemed to have compromised. No matter how good Su Xiaoxiao and Su Ergou's business was, they did not cause trouble for the siblings again.

On this day, the siblings finished selling snacks.

The woman came to get the goods at the agreed time. There were a hundred of them, all intact.

The woman checked the goods and paid the bill. She could not hide her smile and said, “Miss, thank you so much!”

Chapter 120

“You still want to run? Let's see where you can run today!”

In a small alley, a few thugs surrounded a middle-aged man who looked disheveled.

The middle-aged man originally wanted to escape, but how could he, who had a big belly, be a match for a few young burly men? Not long after, he was blocked at a dead end.

The middle-aged man curled up and hugged his head tightly as he was kicked and punched repeatedly.

“Please let me go… I really don't have money… I can't pay it back…”

“Why wouldn't I repay my debt?”

“I didn't borrow it. You've got the wrong person…”

“We found the wrong person? Your handprint is on it! Do you think we're blind?”

Another round of punches and kicks ensued.

When Su Xiaoxiao and Su Ergou passed by the alley, they reflexively looked in.

Su Ergou exclaimed, “Sister, that person's voice sounds a little familiar… Could it be Physician Fu?”

The middle-aged man was familiar. The first person he thought of was Physician Fu.

When one of the thugs saw the siblings, he reprimanded them loudly, “What are you looking at? If you continue looking, I'll beat you up too!”

“Damn you!” Little Bully Su was angered. Coincidentally, he finished the last bite of the pancake, crumpled the bamboo leaf, and threw it at that person without any hesitation!

The man's face was hit.

It didn't hurt, but it was a slap in the face!

The two sides started fighting.

The Su family had never been afraid of fighting.

These three were just small fries in the casino. Su Xiaoxiao didn't even do anything. Su Ergou soloed and took care of the entire scene.

The three of them ran away cursing!

Su Ergou felt that something was wrong. When he helped the person up, he finally realized what was wrong.

He curled his lips in disdain. “Eh, why is it you?”

Manager Sun also widened his mouth in shock. “Little… Little Brother Su? Miss Su?”

He never expected that the people who saved him were his former opponents—Su Xiaoxiao and Su Ergou.

Back then, he was so glorious that he did not even look at the siblings. But now, he was hiding from debts everywhere and his past glory was gone. How tragic was that?

Su Ergou asked, “Sun, how did you end up like this?”

Manager Sun leaned against the wall and sat down. He sighed. “Sigh, don't mention it.”

Su Xiaoxiao crossed her arms and looked down at him. “Just mention it. After all, we saved you. Let us laugh at you.”

Manager Sun wanted to ask the siblings if it felt really good to stab him in the back like this. However, after hiding for many days, he did have a stomach full of words to say.

He leaned against the cold wall behind him and looked up at the gray sky. “Did you notice that the shopkeeper of Jin Ji has changed?”

Su Ergou said, “Yes, that new guy is even more shameless than you!”

For some reason, Manager Sun felt that he was being insulted,

Manager Sun composed himself and continued, “All these years, for Jin Ji, I've been doing all I can in the wind and rain. Every day, I worked hard. If Jin Ji can become big, I, Sun Quan, dare to say that I deserve credit!”

“Pfft!” Su Xiaoxiao laughed.

Was this guy actually called Sun Quan? She could imagine Liu Bei warping to the scene to beat him to death!

Manager Sun looked at Su Xiaoxiao with hurt. “You're still laughing?”

Su Xiaoxiao said righteously, “Of course, I'll laugh.”

Manager Sun wondered what kind of siblings they were.

To summarize Manager Sun's experience, he had dedicated half his life to Jin Ji and treated Jin Ji as his child. Who would have thought that he would be destroyed by Jin Ji in the end?

“That He guy is a relative of the boss,” he said.

Su Xiaoxiao came to a realization. “No wonder he's so arrogant.”

Manager Sun had revealed his background. His sad fate was completely exposed to the siblings.

Anyway, there was no dignity left. So be it.

Su Xiaoxiao asked, “What about you being chased for a debt?”

It was fine if he didn't mention this, but once he did, Manager Sun's expression turned even uglier.

This was the real moment that made men lose face.

Su Xiaoxiao looked at his pained expression and guessed blindly, “Could it be that your concubine ran away with someone else, took away your savings, and left you a lot of debt?”

Su Ergou placed his hands on his hips and laughed. “Haha! Sister! How can there be such a stupid and unlucky man in the world?”

Manager Sun fell silent.

Su Ergou stopped laughing. “Ah, there really is…”

Su Xiaoxiao patted Manager Sun's shoulder sympathetically.

In the next second, the siblings burst out laughing.

After the siblings finished laughing, Manager Sun was numb.

But what could he say?

Wasn't it all his doing?

Su Xiaoxiao touched her stomach. “Phew, I've probably lost two pounds here.”

This was the legendary concept of training abs through laughter!

Manager Sun said, “Your business is getting bigger and bigger. When I passed by Jin Ji that day, I saw more people queuing up in front of your stall than at the entrance of Jin Ji.”

Su Xiaoxiao said proudly, “Yes, are you envious?”

Manager Sun sighed. “I underestimated you. Girl, you're not an ordinary person.”

Su Xiaoxiao said shamelessly, “There are many people who look down on me. You're not the only one. I don't care about a few loose words.”

This was the first time Manager Sun had seen someone so thick-skinned.

“Are you still supplying Jin Ji?” he asked.

“No.” Su Xiaoxiao said, “That He guy is inhumane. He wanted to chase us away and even sent people to ambush us on the way.”

Su Ergou showed off his small biceps. “In the end, we beat him up!”

“You girl, you're stubborn.” Manager Sun thought of something and suddenly smiled happily. “Then Jin Ji is finished.”

Su Xiaoxiao sighed. “What's done? It's just an egg yolk pastry. It's still good if they don't sell it.”

Manager Sun smiled and said, “You don't know, right? Tomorrow is Minister Qi's birthday banquet. Back then, I spent a lot of effort and connections to send the snacks to the Qi family. After Old Madam Qi tried them, she took a fancy to the wife cake and egg yolk pastry, especially the egg yolk pastry. Old Madam Qi said that this snack can't be missing at the banquet. Now that you're not supplying Jin Ji, they can't make their egg yolk pastry. If they mess up the Qi family's birthday banquet, they will suffer a huge setback!”

Hearing this, not only did Su Xiaoxiao not gloat, she fell silent.

“How many egg yolk pastries does the Qi family want for their birthday banquet?” she asked.

Manager Sun said, “A hundred.”

Su Xiaoxiao frowned. “It's her!”

“What's wrong?” Manager Sun was stunned by Su Xiaoxiao's sudden reaction.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “It's been too calm these two days. Jin Ji didn't find trouble with us but a woman came to buy a hundred salted duck eggs.”

These few sentences seemed to be unrelated, but how smart was Manager Sun?

He immediately understood what was going on!

His expression changed drastically. “He sent her! He bought your ingredients!”

“Ah? That woman didn't buy it for her son? Was she running an errand for He?” Su Ergou was furious! He was too detestable!

Su Xiaoxiao frowned, but soon, her brows relaxed.

Her lips curved into a smile. “You sealed the deal before the New Year, right?”

Chapter 121

Manager Sun said, “Yes.”

Su Xiaoxiao smiled. “Before the New Year, I have yet to supply Jin Ji. You bought the egg yolk pastry from me for Old Madam Qi to try, right?”

“Ahem!” Manager Sun cleared his throat awkwardly. “I didn't have any raw materials, okay?”

Manager Sun had the brains and talent to do business. Most importantly, this fellow was bold enough to sell a business that he had not obtained.

Manager Sun had helped her a lot.

“Girl, what are you thinking about?” Manager Sun asked.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “I'm thinking that my egg yolk pastry is not so easy to imitate. If Old Madam Qi finds out that the taste this time is different from the ones she ate before, do you think she will be unhappy?”

“Oh!”

Manager Sun gasped.

He had not thought of this just now. That's right. Even after obtaining Su Xiaoxiao's formula, the snacks Jin Ji made still had a slight difference in taste.

It was the same for the wife cake and the chestnut cake.

As for the egg yolk pastry… the salted egg yolk had only arrived this year, and he was no longer the shopkeeper of Jin Ji. He had never tasted how it was done there.

Manager Sun said, “But what if Old Madam Qi can't taste the difference? The texture is a little different, but there's not much difference. Moreover, even if you make it yourself, you can't guarantee that every batch will taste the same! I heard that the chef of Jin Ji doesn't rest for the New Year and focuses on cultivating at home to master your formulae.”

“Whatever you say is possible.” Su Xiaoxiao was not a person who underestimated herself, but she would not be blindly confident. “Can you still enter the Qi family?”

Manager Sun sighed. “The Qi family does business with Jin Ji, not with me, Sun Quan. It's probably difficult.”

“Ten taels.”

“Sigh, I really can't do anything.”

“Twenty taels.”

“I told you…”

“Thirty taels.”

“Hey, girl…”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Ergou, call that group of people over and say that Manager Sun is giving it to them!”

Manager Sun shuddered. “I suddenly remembered that Nanny Ding of the Qi family is from my hometown!”

At dawn, Manager He woke up early under the service of his concubine.

Today was Old Madam Qi's birthday, and it was also the first cooperation between Jin Ji and the Qi family. The Qi family had a say in the prefecture capital. As long as this business was done, why would Jin Ji worry about not being able to open up in the prefecture capital?

In order to express the importance of this business, Manager He decided to deliver it to the Qi family personally.

He went downstairs to the kitchen.

“Are the snacks ready?” he asked.

The waiter came out of the kitchen and said with a smile, “Don't worry! I've been watching for the entire night! I guarantee that nothing will go wrong!”

The snacks were made on the fifth night. After staring at them for the entire night, they were bragging!

Manager He couldn't be bothered to argue about such small matters. He got someone to put the snacks into a food box and bring his carriage.

The waiter and an old friend from Jin Ji went with him.

The group arrived at the Qi family.

Although Jin Ji was the largest snack shop in town, it was simply not in the league of a rich family like the Qi family.

Manager He was not qualified to use the main door. His carriage stopped outside the back door.

The person who came out to receive them was a small butler of the Qi family.

“It wasn't you the last time.” The junior manager frowned.

Manager He said politely, “I'm the new shopkeeper of Jin Ji. My surname is He.”

“Over there! Don't hang the lantern wrongly!” The junior manager shouted at the servant at the side. After saying that, he looked at Manager He. “What did you say? Alright, come in!”

To think a mere manager actually despised him, the head manager. Manager He was indignant.

However, he also understood that the Qi family was one of the most powerful families in Apricot Flower Town. Jin Ji could not afford to offend them!

“I've already said that you don't have to come personally.” The waiter also felt indignant for his master. He thought that if the shopkeeper came personally, he would more or less be treated well.

Unexpectedly, the servants of the Qi family looked down on them and ignored them!

Manager He said calmly, “He's just a small fry.”

When he obtained Old Madam Qi's favor, wouldn't such an ignorant servant be easily dismissed with a word?

On the other side, a beautiful maidservant came over with a lantern.

“Miss Qing'er, you're so early?”

The young steward, who ignored Manager He and the others, actually revealed a fawning smile when he met this maidservant.

The maidservant said, “Old Madam is up. Have the snacks from Jin Ji arrived? Old Madam said to give them to her to try first.”

The junior steward smiled and said, “Miss Qing'er can just instruct me on such matters. Why bother making a trip yourself? Miss Qing'er, you can go first. I'll send you off!”

The maidservant said, “Don't pick make so much noise with unimportant people and disturb Old Madam's peace.”

“Ah, yes, yes!” The junior manager turned around with a smile. His expression turned cold as he said to Manager He, “Snacks.”

Manager He gave the waiter and his old companion a look. The two of them carried in food boxes one after another and handed them to the junior steward.

The junior steward called over a few smart servants and followed the maidservant to serve the snacks to Old Madam Qi.

The waiter looked at the other party's graceful back and swallowed. He whispered, “Manager, the Qi family is indeed a big family. Even a maid is much more beautiful than the girls of Yue Hong Pavilion…”

Yue Hong Pavilion is a brothel in Apricot Flower Town. Manager He wished he could kick him. Was he tired of living by comparing the Qi family's maidservant to the women in the brothel?

Manager He was waiting in the courtyard outside the kitchen. He was not waiting for the bill, but for Old Madam Qi's feedback.

He was confident that Old Madam Qi would definitely like the pancakes! She might even want to see him!

What he did not expect was that before Madam Qi could summon him, Miss Qing'er would scold him.

“What snacks did you give us? It's completely different from last time! Old Madam is angry! Who asked you to buy the snacks from another place!”

The junior steward was confused and turned to look at Manager He.

Manager He said, “Miss Qing'er, we're from Jin Ji.”

Qing'er said angrily, “Then have you changed chefs?”

Shopkeeper He hurriedly said, “No! The snacks today were all made by the chef of Jin Ji! There's no one else!”

The snacks that were usually sold were taught by the main chef and the other chefs shared the responsibility. The Qi family's birthday banquet was very important, and the main chef did it himself.

Qing'er said coldly, “Why is that taste different?”

Manager He frowned. The chef had not changed. Could it be that the girl had provided them with inferior salted eggs?

At this moment, a servant rushed over. “Manager Zhang! The people from Jin Ji are here! They said that they're here to deliver birthday snacks!”

Manager He was stunned. “We're the ones from Jin Ji! Why is there another Jin Ji?”

The servant looked at Shopkeeper He and said to his butler, “That person's surname is Sun. He came last time.”

Chapter 122

Qing'er came to a realization. “So you're imposters! No wonder it tastes so bad!”

Manager He shouted, “No, we're the real Jin Ji!”

Manager Zhang said to the servant, “Call him in.”

Manager He also wanted to see who dared to impersonate Jin Ji! Soon, they were brought in by the servant. When he saw the three of them clearly, Manager He's eyes almost fell out!

“It's you!”

Who else could it be but Manager Sun, Su Xiaoxiao, and Su Ergou?

Strange, why were the three of them here?

Manager Sun cupped his hands at Steward Zhang and said amiably, “Steward Zhang, how have you been?”

Previously, it had always been Manager Sun who negotiated business with the Qi family. Manager Zhang had seen him and had an impression of him.

As for the fat girl and poor boy beside him, they were unfamiliar faces.

Manager He's cold gaze swept across Manager Sun and the siblings. He subconsciously felt that Manager Sun was older and more experienced. This matter must have been Manager Sun's idea.

He said angrily, “Sun! Why are you here?”

Manager Sun smiled and said, “I'm naturally here to deliver goods to the Qi family!”

“You're no longer the shopkeeper of Jin Ji! It's not your place to deliver the goods!” Manager He said as he looked at Manager Zhang. “This person has long been chased out of Jin Ji. Now, I'm the shopkeeper of Jin Ji!”

Manager Sun hit the nail on the head. “Then, did you made the pastries from last time?”

Manager He choked.

Manager Sun thought to himself, No way? This girl really guessed correctly? Jin Ji didn't manage to replicate her taste!

Since it was a guess, there was a possibility that she was wrong. Even Su Xiaoxiao could not guarantee that her plan was foolproof.

At this moment, she felt more relieved.

As long as Jin Ji did not make the exact same taste, she still had a chance!

“Where are the snacks?” Qing Er asked.

She did not care whether it was the old shopkeeper or the new shopkeeper. She only wanted the egg yolk pastry from the previous time. Otherwise, if she angered Old Madam and Minister Qi blamed her, these people would have to bear the consequences!

Su Xiaoxiao and Su Ergou handed her four large food boxes.

Qing'er said to Steward Zhang, “Please get a few people to send them to Old Madam's courtyard!”

Steward Zhang smiled and said, “Alright, Miss Qing'er!”

After the servants of the Qi family left with the snacks, Su Xiaoxiao and the others were not in a hurry to leave.

Manager He was also there.

He glared at the three of them coldly and said disdainfully, “Sun, have you actually fallen to the extent of being with two country bumpkins? Jin Ji has raised you for more than twenty years, and this is how you repay Jin Ji! Are you worthy of Jin Ji?”

Damn it! Who was the one who let the other down?

Manager He continued, “Also, don't think that you can snatch the business of Jin Ji like this! For the same formula, Jin Ji used the best flour and hired the most powerful chef! If the taste of Jin Ji can't satisfy Old Madam Qi, don't even think about it!”

As soon as he finished speaking, Manager Zhang ran over.

From the looks of it, something was wrong.

Manager He smiled gloatingly. “Heard what I said? You guys have no chance at all…”

Steward Zhang came to Su Xiaoxiao and the other two and said, “Please. My Old Madam invites you.”

He said please.

Manager He trembled. “What did you say?”

Manager Zhang ignored him and said politely to Su Xiaoxiao and the other two, “Please follow me.”

The three of them followed Steward Zhang to Old Madam Qi's courtyard.

Manager He did not believe it and shamelessly followed to investigate.

Old Madam Qi was 70 years old this year. In ancient times, she was considered old. Her body was considered strong, and she did not have much of a fetish for food and clothes. She had only tasted the snacks sent by Manager Sun previously and could not forget the taste.

Minister Qi was a filial son, so he immediately decided on this deal.

He didn't care how much money it was. What he wanted was for Old Madam Qi to be happy.

Old Madam Qi sat on the official hat chair, her expression exuding the dignity of an old lady.

She looked at the three of them and asked, “Who made the snacks?”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “It's me.”

Manager He glanced at the table and was shocked!

In a food box on the left, there were rows of pink peaches The peaches were white and red, and there were light green peach leaves sitting under them. Just looking at them made one smell the fragrance of the peaches.

In a food box on the right, there were yellow and orange marigolds. Their petals were distinct, and the stamens were dotted with bulging brown centers.

They were too lifelike.

If it weren't for the fact that they were in a food box, no one wouldn't have thought that these were real peaches and real marigolds.

It was no wonder that Manager He had such a big reaction. Even Old Madam Qi, who only ate snacks in the prefecture capital all year round, was stunned.

She had never seen anyone make snacks so unique. Before she even tasted them, she asked Steward Zhang to call her over.

She asked, “Girl, tell me, what is all this?”

Su Xiaoxiao smiled and said, “Salted egg longevity peach pastry, milk-flavored chestnut cake, and longevity cake.”

Manager He craned his neck and looked at the third food box.

There were birthday cakes inside.

The longevity pancake looked more like a normal pancake, but if one took a closer look, one would discover that there was more than meets the eye.

The filling of the birthday cake was the same as the wife's cake, but the skin was not crispy. It was similar to the skin of a mooncake.

Since Old Madam Qi was old, Su Xiaoxiao made the texture of this skin even more fragrant and soft, so that it was more suitable for her teeth.

In addition, Su Xiaoxiao used a mold to press the word “longevity” and the carving of the pine branch on the pancake. It was beautiful. It could be said to be the essence of the first two snacks.

Old Madam Qi said warmly, “Qing'er, bring the snacks over for me to try.”

“Yes, Old Madam.” Qing'er held a silver tray, took a piece of each snack, and handed it to Old Madam with a small gold spoon.

Old Madam Qi also tasted a little. The taste was even more stunning than the egg yolk pastry and wife cake the previous time.

Old Madam Qi looked at Su Xiaoxiao with satisfaction. “Girl, do you have anything to say about these snacks?”

Su Xiaoxiao smiled and said, “Everyone wishes to have a long lifespan. Peach symbolizes immortality! I wish you a long life!”

What a good saying!

Everyone looked at the marigold chestnut cake, salted egg yolk longevity peach pastry, and pine branches carved with longevity pancakes on the table. At this moment, they all felt enlightened!

They had really underestimated this fat village girl. The snacks were not delicious, but actually belied such exquisite thoughts!

They had opened their eyes today!

Manager He was stunned and could not say a word.

Su Xiaoxiao glanced at him lightly.

“Stealing business from me, I'll roll you to death!”

Chapter 123

Ahem, strictly speaking, she was the one snatching business from Jin Ji.

But Jin Ji was the one that refused to give her a way out!

Two can play the game!

It was obvious from Old Madam Qi's expression that she believed in Su Xiaoxiao.

Old Madam Qi's gaze landed on Su Xiaoxiao's face again. This time, there was less of the dignity of an old lady and more of the gentleness of an old man.

“Girl, come forward.” She waved at Su Xiaoxiao.

Su Xiaoxiao walked over calmly.

She was neither overly anxious nor timid. After all, she was not born and raised in ancient times and had never learned ancient social etiquette.

However, some things have endured since ancient times. That was a person's aura and confidence.

Old Madam Qi looked at her gently. “You're a girl with good fortune. Tell me, what's your name?”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Su Daya.”

Old Madam Qi smiled and said, “Where are you from?”

“From Apricot Flower Village,” she answered truthfully.

There was no need to lie about such information. The Qi family could easily find out about her ancestors.

Manager He snorted in his heart. She was just a bumpkin from the countryside! He didn't know if the things she made were clean or not. Old Madam Qi was a proper person from the prefectural city. When she married into the Qi family, it shocked most of the town!

It would be strange if Old Madam Qi took a fancy to her!

Manager Sun said at the right time, “Old Madam, you don't know, but Miss Su's snacks are very famous. The dean of Wutong Academy is full of praise for Miss Su's culinary skills and even asked Miss Su to supply the students of the academy every day.”

Old Madam Qi was surprised. “Even Dean Shen likes it.”

Manager Sun smiled and said, “Of course! I don't dare to deceive Old Madam!”

Manager Sun was indeed an old businessman. His words were controlled well and he could talk the birds out of the trees.

How could he know Dean Shen's attitude toward Su Xiaoxiao? In short, he would just brag!

How did one's business come about? It was 30% based on strength and 70% on bragging!

Manager He was really furious. This shameless bastard!

Dean Shen was also a rather famous person in Apricoty Flower Town. He was a scholar who did not get involved in worldly affairs. His ambition was not in the royal court, but to teach.

Old Madam Qi looked at Su Xiaoxiao with more certainty.

Actually, even if Manager Sun didn't brag, Old Madam Qi wouldn't think that Su Xiaoxiao's things were unpresentable just because she came from the countryside.

At her age, she was an old lady with money, power, and status. She had her own judgment and did not have to live in the eyes of others.

If she thought something was good, then it was good.

Not to mention these snacks, those lines of poetry were enough for her to treat Su Xiaoxiao differently.

Of course, after Manager Sun brought up Dean Shen, her impression of Su Xiaoxiao became even deeper.

“Girl, do you have a name for your snacks?”

Su Xiaoxiao was stunned for a moment before she realized that Old Madam Qi was not asking about the name of a single snack.

She thought for a moment and looked up into Old Madam Qi's kind eyes. She said seriously, “Su Ji.”

On Old Madam Qi's seventieth birthday, all the famous people in the town were in attendance. The county magistrate also personally came to congratulate her.

Beyond Apricot Flower Town, there were also many guests from the prefecture capital. Some were from her family, and some were from her grandson's connections in the officialdom of the prefecture capital.

When the snacks made by Su Xiaoxiao appeared at the birthday banquet, these old masters and madams felt that they had seen the world.

Take the county magistrate for example. Although he was not a scholar in the top rankings, he was still a proper county examination scholar and had entered the capital three times to take the examination.

He had never seen such a unique snack.

He looked at the prefecture officials beside him. Everyone was as surprised as him.

“Everyone wishes to have a long lifespan. Peach symbolizes immortality! This is to wish our Old Madam a long life!”

Qing'er followed Su Xiaoxiao's words and introduced the snacks to the ladies and daughters who came to ask.

“Is it a snack from Jin Ji?”

Jin Ji was the largest snack shop in town. Everyone immediately thought of it.

Qing'er snorted. “No! It's Su Ji!”

“Su Ji? A new shop? I've never heard of it.”

“Is it the shop in the prefecture?”

“I live in the prefecture capital. There's no snack called Su Ji in our prefecture capital. Even if there is, it might not be famous. I've never eaten something from Su Ji.”

“Where did that come from? It's not the provincial capital, is it?”

“My brother is studying in the provincial city. There are no such delicious snacks in the provincial city!”

“It can't be from the capital, right? The capital is so far away. Did the Qi family invite a famous chef from the capital to cook at home?”

After the birthday banquet began, Su Xiaoxiao came out of the Qi family and knew nothing about the commotion caused at the banquet.

The Qi family returned the snacks from Jin Ji and asked for a refund. Then they bought from Su Xiaoxiao.

There were 100 salted egg yolk longevity peach pastries, 50 marigold chestnut cakes, and 50 longevity pancakes. It was a total of 20 taels. Old Madam Qi was happy and rewarded Su Xiaoxiao with 10 taels.

“Sister! We earned 30 taels today! 30 taels!”

Su Ergou was so excited that he sprang in elation!

The joy of selling snacks was really incomparable to extortion!

Su Xiaoxiao was quite happy.

In her previous life, she treated money like dirt, but after coming here, she was really poor. 30 taels was definitely a huge sum of money for the current her.

She had to plan how to use this money.

Compared to the siblings who had won the battle, Manager He was like a defeated rooster, dispirited and angry!

“A petty person is successful!”

He gritted his teeth and glared at the siblings before walking towards the carriage of Jin Ji with a cold expression.

Su Xiaoxiao casually moved her feet, and a small stone flew to Manager He's feet.

Manager He slipped and fell into the shaft!

“Ouch!”

A large bump appeared on his forehead.

Su Xiaoxiao smiled faintly. “You have to watch when you walk, Shopkeeper He.”

Manager He got into the carriage and left!

Su Xiaoxiao planned to go to the market to buy some beans and duck eggs.

However, if they waited for Liu Ping to come over, it would be difficult for them to bring so many ingredients back to the village without the donkey cart.

While Liu Ping was waiting, Manager Sun came out of the Qi family.

Facing Su Xiaoxiao again, Manager Sun felt a little complicated and awkward.

In the past, they were enemies. Who would have thought that they would work together one day?

He paused for a moment and said, “I'll treat the Qi family's business as repayment for yesterday. I, Sun Quan, am a snob and my methods are a little dishonorable, but I'm not an ungrateful person. I've told the Qi family's steward that if there's such a business in the future, they will look for you.”

Su Xiaoxiao raised her eyebrows and glanced at him. “Aren't you going to get yourself some business?”

Even if he was not the shopkeeper of Jin Ji, he still had his ability. It was not impossible for him to make a comeback.

Manager Sun sighed helplessly. “I've already said that I'll return the favor. From now on, I won't snatch your business.”

Chapter 124

Su Xiaoxiao: “Oh.”

Manager Sun continued, “If there's nothing else, I'll leave first.”

With that, he turned around and left.

He had been beaten up by the people from the gambling den yesterday and was still injured. In order not to leave a bad impression on the Qi family and affect Su Xiaoxiao's business, he forced himself to endure the pain in his body and pretended to be nonchalant.

Looking at his staggering back, Su Xiaoxiao suddenly said, “Hey, how much do you owe?”

When Su Xiaoxiao and Su Ergou returned to the village, it was already evening.

The three little ones were already waiting at the village entrance. They flapped their small arms behind them and kept glancing at the village road.

When they finally saw the familiar fat figure, the three of them couldn't wait anymore and pounced at Su Xiaoxiao.

Considering that she might return late today, Su Xiaoxiao had informed them in advance last night.

The three of them did not cry, but they missed their mother's presence.

Su Xiaoxiao squatted on the ground and the three of them squeezed into her arms, breathing in the aura that made them feel at ease.

“Mom, Dahu misses you so much.”

“Erhu misses you too.”

“Xiaohu misses you the most!”

Perhaps because they had interacted more with their village friends, the three little fellows spoke more fluently than before. Occasionally, they could say a complete sentence in one breath.

Su Xiaoxiao was pleasantly surprised by their every growth and change. This was really a strange experience.

It was just that they did not grow much. They still looked like three little radishes.

“Look at what Mom brought you?” Su Xiaoxiao took out three sticks of shiny and red things.

Xiaohu opened his hands. “Wow! Candied hawthorn!”

Although they had already greeted each other, there would still be lingering sadness. Su Xiaoxiao had never raised a child, but some things were easily understood.

The three little ones happily took the candied hawthorn.

“Mother, eat.” The three of them handed her the candied hawthorn.

Su Xiaoxiao waved her chubby hands. “I want to lose weight, so I won't eat it. Give it to Uncle Ergou.”

The three of them began to play rock-paper-scissors. Naturally, they learned it from the children in the village. Su Xiaoxiao didn't understand why they suddenly wanted to play rock-paper-scissors.

She found out when Xiaohu lost.

He sighed and handed a candied hawthorn to Su Ergou with a serious expression. “One!”

Su Ergou was speechless.

Wei Ting was also there.

He was sitting on a stone under a big tree at the entrance of the village.

He was wearing coarse linen clothes and had black hair tied into a simple bun with a wooden hairpin that was only worth a copper coin.

He was clearly dressed like a poor country bumpkin, but he looked like an immortal.

He looked into the distance quietly, thinking about something. He seemed to be enveloped by a faint sadness and melancholy.

“Wei Ting!”

Su Xiaoxiao called him.

Wei Ting restrained his thoughts. His distant gaze changed and he returned to his usual inhumane and cold self.

He turned to look at Su Xiaoxiao. The afterglow of the setting sun shone on her and the children. The scene seemed to have been frozen.

Smoke rose from the village as she walked towards him, who had long fallen into hell.

“Wei Ting, were you waiting for me too?” She placed her hands behind her back, tilted her head, and smiled at him. “Have you been waiting for a long time?”

Wei Ting calmly shifted his gaze and looked at the three little ones who were fooling around with Su Ergou. “Dahu and the others wanted to come.”

“Oh.” Su Xiaoxiao raised her eyebrows in disbelief.

“Let's go back.” He stood up expressionlessly and walked towards the Su family with his walking stick.

Su Xiaoxiao followed closely.

The three little ones ran ahead wildly with Su Ergou. The entire village was filled with their giggles.

Su Xiaoxiao sighed sensibly. “Children are so energetic! After a hard day, I feel like I'm going to collapse. Yet Ergou can still go up to the roof to fiddle with the tiles!”

“Aren't you a child too?”

“You called me a child. How old are you?”

“Older than you.”

“Of course, I know you're older than me. You already have three children!”

Wei Ting said nothing.

Since she mentioned age, Su Xiaoxiao asked, “Wei Ting, when's your birthday?”

Wei Ting said calmly, “Why are you asking?”

Su Xiaoxiao said casually, “I'm just asking. My birthday is on the first of December. My father and Ergou have theirs on the 29th of the first month, which is the end of this month. It's almost time. What about yours?”

Wei Ting still did not answer.

Su Xiaoxiao curled her lips. “It's said that a woman's age is a secret, but it's the other way around with you. Alright, I won't ask you anymore. I'll get the kids to tell me.”

Wei Ting said, “First of June.”

Su Xiaoxiao was stunned. “61?”

Children's Day?

No, Children's Day in modern times was mapped to the solar calendar, and the birthdays of the three little ones were mapped to the lunar calendar.

As the two of them spoke, they arrived home without realizing it.

Su Xiaoxiao shrugged. “I thought this road was quite long, but we reached so soon.”

Wei Ting seemed to have sensed something. His eyes moved, but he did not speak.

Old Master Su had been farming with Auntie Qian for the entire afternoon and was so tired that he was silent. At this moment, he was catching up on his sleep in the house.

Su Xiaoxiao didn't wake him up and gently closed the door.

Then, she returned to her room and sat on the stool. She untied the money bag at her waist and poured out a few scattered copper coins.

She had earned 30 taels today. The consultation fee that Xiang Zhonghua had given her previously, as well as the ten taels of snacks and braised meat that she had earned over the past few days, totaled 60 taels.

But there were only a few copper coins left.

She even said that she could return Su Yuniang's silver!

It was all spent!

Boohoo! How painful!

Creak…

The door opened.

Su Xiaoxiao sat up straight in a second and turned back into the high and mighty little fat peacock.

Wei Ting walked over with an indifferent expression and glanced at the copper coin on the table and the IOU in her hand.

The IOU was issued by Manager Sun.

Before leaving today, Su Xiaoxiao gallantly told Wei Ting that she had gone to earn big money, but in the end, she earned an IOU.

In order to avoid being mocked, she quietly put away the IOU. “I saved the silver in the bank! I made a killing!”

She thought Wei Ting would say, “Heh, is that so? Where's the evidence?”

Unexpectedly, Wei Ting did not say anything else and placed a money bag on her table.

Su Xiaoxiao blinked. “What?”

“I picked it up.”

Wei Ting said.

His answer did not address her question.

Su Xiaoxiao opened the bag. “Wow!”

Two white silver ingots! Two banknotes worth 50 taels!

She was rich!

Su Xiaoxiao's eyes lit up. “Wei Ting, is this for my family?”

Wei Ting said calmly, “I already said that I picked it up.”

The thoughts of the man in black, whose pants had been plundered, were: Can you make your story more believable?

For Su Xiaoxiao, this was starting capital!Su Xiaoxiao happily put away the money bag.

“Wei Ting, you're quite rich!”

Ever since she met Jing Yi and his subordinates on the official road, she had never gone there again.

Unexpectedly, Wei Ting went to dig out the treasure himself!

How could she know that Wei Ting had not dug but extorted?

Chapter 125

The moment he was extorted, the man in black was stunned. He wondered what Wei Ting experienced recently. Why did he learn to extort money?

Su Xiaoxiao rested her chin on her hands and looked at him. “Wei Ting, are you getting more and more concerned about me?”

Wei Ting glanced at her indifferently and said indifferently, “Have you lost all your body weight to your face?”

Damn!

Was he indirectly scolding her for being thick-skinned?

What did this guy do in the past? To be so good at arguing, was he the top scholar? The kind who fought with the other scholars?

Forget it, she would forgive him on account of the silver!

Su Xiaoxiao went to the Su family to return the money to Su Yuniang.

Su Yuniang looked visibly haggard.

While others would become rosier as they observed their confinement, she seemed to have done her confinement in vain.

It was not strange if one thought about it. As the saying went, a married daughter would be criticized for returning to her parents' house every other day. Not to mention that she was giving birth and doing her confinement at her maiden home.

As she stayed longer, the gossip in the village increased, especially when the Zheng family came once and quarreled with her. Madam Zhou, who was a gossipy woman, had witnessed it and publicized it that night.

It was true that the villagers respected the Su family, but they could not help but be old-fashioned and gossipy.

In addition, the conflict between Su Yuniang and her family was also growing.

The Su family hoped that she would go with the flow and put a stop to her conflict with Brother Xing. The sentiment was that since Brother Xing was sincerely repenting, she should stop her pretence and go back to live with him.

That woman was just a concubine and could not do much. The Zheng family had many people, so having more children was just a matter of setting aside more chopsticks. It was not like she had to worry.

She could just pretend not to see it.

However Su Yuniang could not take this lying down and refused to go back.

While Old Madam Su and her eldest sister-in-law didn't look too good, Madam Fang's heart ached for her daughter, so she did not mind. However, she did not agree with her daughter's actions. She also advised her daughter not to hurt the spousal relationship with her husband. She had to live her life and not push her man away.

No one in the family really stood in Su Yuniang's shoes to consider things from her perspective.

Su Yuniang actually didn't care what the villagers thought of her.

She cared about her family. However, to her family, she was already an outsider.

“I really envy you sometimes,” Su Yuniang said wistfully as she sat on the bed.

Su Xiaoxiao raised her eyebrows. “I'm quite envious of myself.”

Su Yuniang gritted her teeth and said, “Don't interrupt my emotions!”

Su Xiaoxiao curled her lips. “So fierce.”

Su Yuniang took a deep breath and connected her broken emotions. She continued, “I envy you for being able to find a live-in husband.”

Generally speaking, only those who could not give birth to a son would ask their daughter to find a live-in son-in-law to inherit the family's bloodline.

However, the Su family had Su Ergou. Under such circumstances, Su Cheng had to bear a lot of pressure as the head of the family.

However, Su Cheng would rather be criticized than marry his daughter to someone else to suffer.

“You have a good father,” Su Yuniang said.

“Of course, my father is very good!” Su Xiaoxiao also felt that Father Su was the best father in the world. Although he did things a little inappropriately, his love for her was deep.

Su Yuniang's father was similar to Madam Fang and did not have his own opinions. Old Master Su was in charge of the family.

“Maybe your grandfather was too domineering.”

Sometimes, a strong father would raise children who lacked opinions.

“Perhaps.” Su Yuniang didn't care much anymore. “If only I could find a live-in husband.”

Su Xiaoxiao looked at her deeply. “You're quite suitable for that sort of arrangement.”

Su Yuniang was opinionated and smart. She had a strong personality and was brave. She was easy-going and had good taste.

Su Yuniang had heard too many objections, so she could not help but be slightly surprised at Su Xiaoxiao's words.

Su Xiaoxiao pouted. “Don't look at me like that. If it were me, I wouldn't be able to accept it either. When two people are together, they should be loyal to each other. Otherwise, why would there be sayings about everlasting love?'”

“Everlasting love.” Su Yuniang's heart was touched. “If Mr. Wei betrays you one day, what will you do?”

Su Xiaoxiao waved her hand. “He won't!”

Because they were not a real couple at all!

How could there be a betrayal?

One day, they would be separated and never see each other again.

This was what would become of her and Wei Ting.

From the beginning to the end, Su Xiaoxiao did not persuade Su Yuniang to return to her in-laws' house. She returned the money and left.

Just as she left, the Zheng family came knocking on her door.

It was still Zheng Lanxiu, but without Brother Xing; she came with her man, Cripple Feng.

Cripple Feng walked with a slight limp, and that was how he got this nickname.

Cripple Feng watched as Su Xiaoxiao came out of the Su family. He stared at Su Xiaoxiao until she was far away.

“What are you looking at!” Zheng Lanxiu pinched her man!

“Ouch!” Cripple Feng was in pain and scolded the bitch in his heart, but he smiled and said, “What can I look at? I'm just wondering if it's inconvenient for us to visit since there's a guest in the Su family.”

Zheng Lanxiu said angrily, “Hmph! Is it inconvenient for us or is it inconvenient for a daughter who lives in her maiden home!”

These words were for Su Yuniang.

Cripple Feng's mind was filled with the chubby figure he had seen just now. His eyes flashed as he asked, “Strange, who was that fatty just now? I've never seen her before…”

Zheng Lanxiu said impatiently, “Why haven't you seen her before? She's Fatty Su from the Su family!”

“Ah! It's her?” Cripple Feng was extremely surprised.

Because of his relationship with the Su family, he had accompanied Zheng Lanxiu to Apricot Flower Village several times. As such, he had seen Fatty Su in the past.

However, the original Fatty Su was fat and ugly. Her skin was rough and she was fat. The girl just now was clearly not as fat as he remembered. Her skin was smooth and tender.

Zheng Lanxiu was a thin person. She was old and shriveled. She did not have much flesh in her hands, so he could not be interested at night.

That little fat girl just now was really too tempting.

Soon, he saw Su Jinniang again.

Su Jinniang was wearing a light purple cotton-padded jacket. Because she was working, her sleeves were rolled up, revealing a slender wrist.

Jinniang was still the most beautiful!

“It's Jinniang, right? I haven't seen you for a while. You've grown up!” Cripple Feng greeted her with a smile.

Su Jinniang frowned slightly.

She didn't like Zheng Lanxiu's man very much. He always looked at her with lecherous eyes, making her feel nauseous.

Zheng Lanxiu was here to persuade Su Yuniang to go back. If Su Yuniang did not leave, she would stay until Su Yuniang was willing to leave with her!

Because she stayed, Cripple Feng also stayed in the Su family's house.

At night, Su Yuniang had dinner in her room. She carried her daughter and fed her before preparing to rest.

She had just put her daughter down when her hand touched something cold.

She picked it up and saw that it was a jade pendant.

She had seen good things in the Zheng family and recognized that this was jade although she did not know the exact grade.

However, her intuition told her that this jade pendant was quite valuable.

This was clearly not her jade pendant, nor did it belong to her family. She knew very well what jewelry was at home. This was why Su Xiaoxiao thought Su Yuniang was very suitable to be the head of the family.

Su Yuniang thought for a moment and muttered, “Could it be Fatty Su's?”

Fatty Su had just come to pay her back. Perhaps she had dropped the jade pendant when she took out the silver.

“How beautiful…”

Although she was envious, Su Yuniang was not greedy for the things of other people.

“Little brother!”

She called out to the door.

“Coming! Big Sister, you called me?”

The ten-year-old Su Sanlang went in through the curtain.

He was still young and his voice had not yet broken. He was just a child. On the other hand, it was no longer convenient for Su Dalang and the seventeen-year-old Su Erlang to enter Su Yuniang's room.

Su Yuniang handed him the jade pendant. “Take this to the Su family and ask Fatty Su if this is hers.”

“Okay.” He took the jade pendant.

In this family, her youngest brother was the most supportive of her. Firstly, Su Sanlang was young and innocent. Secondly, after Madam Fang gave birth to Su Sanlang, she fell ill for a few years. During that time, Su Yuniang was the one who raised Su Sanlang.

Su Sanlang's feelings for Su Yuniang were very deep. He was happy to go to the Su family. This was not only out of obedience to his sister but also because fatty Su would give him delicious food and allow him to look at the horse.

Su Jinniang stopped him just as he left the house.

“Little brother, it's so late. Where are you going?”

Su Sanlang turned guiltily and put his hands behind his back. “I'm going next door… to find Zhou Zhuang.”

Su Jinniang looked at his stiff arm. “What are you hiding in your hand?”

Su Sanlang hurriedly said, “Nothing!”

Su Jinniangcame to him. “Show me! Otherwise, I'll tell Grandpa!”

Su Sanlang was most afraid of Old Master Su, so he could only bite the bullet and take out the jade pendant. “Fatty Su's thing was left at our house. I'll return it.”

Su Jinniang said coldly, “Then why did you lie to me?”

Su Sanlang fell silent.

Su Jinniang said, “Give it to me. I'll send it for you.”

He whispered, “No.”

Su Jinniang's face darkened. “Then I'll tell Grandpa…”

“What happened?”

Old Master Su heard the siblings' movements in the central room and walked to the door with a dark expression.

Su Sanlang lowered his head in fear.

Su Jinniang spread out her hands and said generously, “Fatty Su came to treat Sister just now and left the jade pendant in Sister's room! Grandpa, I'll send it to her!”

Old Master Su's gaze landed on the jade pendant, and his expression changed!

Chapter 126

“Grandpa, can I send it to Fatty Su?” Su Jinniang asked.

Because of the dim light, she did not notice Old Master Su's expression change.

“Show me,” Old Master Su said.

Su Jinniang walked back to her door and handed the jade pendant to Old Master Su.

The jade pendant was a valuable thing, so it was only right to be cautious. What if Su Yuniang used her jewelry to supplement Fatty Su?

Su Jinniang felt that her grandfather was guarding against her sister from betraying the family and did not suspect anything else.

Old Master Su held the jade pendant in his hand and flipped it around. His fingertips kept rubbing the patterns on the jade pendant.

Su Jinniang felt that she had guessed correctly. “Grandpa? Does this jade pendant belong to Sister? Did she give it to Fatty Su?”

Su Jinniang felt that her sister was too much! She didn't even leave such a good thing for her! She actually gave it to an outsider!

“What jade pendant is mine?”

Su Yuniang's voice appeared in the central room.

Old Master Su and his two grandchildren looked at her.

“Big Sister!” Su Sanlang ran to her side and lowered his head in shame. “Second Sister found me.”

“Why are you out?” Old Master Su asked.

“I've been cooped up in the house for too long, so I came out to take a walk,” Su Yuniang said.

Seeing that Old Master Su was about to speak, she explained, “Daya said that I can come out and walk around. It's fine as long as I don't stand in the cold wind outside.”

Su Jinniang snorted. “I've never heard of anyone walking out during confinement!”

Su Yuniang did not argue with her. Instead, she looked at Old Master Su and the jade pendant in his hand. “It's Daya's. She left it in my room so I got Sanlang to return it to her.”

Old Master Su pinched the jade pendant and calmly handed it to her.

Su Sanlang looked at Su Yuniang.

Su Yuniang said to her brother, “Give it back. We're not greedy for others' things.”

As she spoke, she glanced at Su Jinniang meaningfully.

Su Jinniang blushed slightly.

“Grandpa, I'll go in first.” She lowered her head and entered the house.

Old Master Su also returned to his room coldly.

Su Yuniang looked back at her grandfather's gradually disappearing back and frowned slightly.

Why did she feel that her grandfather's expression was not right?

Su Sanlang personally handed the jade pendant to Su Xiaoxiao.

Recently, Su Xiaoxiao had been soaking the jade in water when she had nothing to do. Needless to say, the texture of the jade became even more crystal clear.

“So it landed at your sister's place. It scared me. I thought I dropped it on the way back to the village!”

This was the most valuable treasure she had on her and it was really delightful to find it again.

She went into the house to get an egg yolk pastry and handed it to him.

He was not a completely ignorant child. He could roughly understand that the relationship between the two families was not harmonious. Only his eldest sister and Fatty Su were close.

Therefore, he would not let his family know that he had eaten something from the Su family, except for his eldest sister.

He usually ate before leaving.

“Can I see the horse?” he asked.

“Sure.” Su Xiaoxiao nodded.

Overjoyed, Su Sanlang went to the small east room.

He had seen the horse as many times as Niudan. Unfortunately, he had seen it secretly. He could not show it off to his friends everywhere and was dying from holding it in.

Su Xiaoxiao put away the jade pendant and turned to cook in the kitchen.

In order to celebrate her business success, she specially made a few hard dishes, a pot of rock-sugar pork shoulder, a bowl of braised pork ribs, and a plate of… something that Wei Ting could not name.

“What is this?”

Wei Ting asked.

It was like tofu, but it was not tofu. It was tender, smooth, and melted in the mouth. The fragrance of spicy oil completely fused into it, and there was an indescribable… freshness to it.

Su Xiaoxiao smiled. “Brains!”

“Ahem!”

Wei Ting choked!

–

After dinner, Father Su went to the backyard to practice his wrist strength.

Actually, it was also a form of rehabilitation. Su Xiaoxiao made simple equipment for him and specified the upper limit of strength and time.

He would do it for one hour a day, and he would work on the exercise step by step.

Wei Ting taught Su Ergou and the three little ones how to read.

The three little ones were just bystanders. They shook their heads as they scribbled.

The main student was Su Ergou.

Although Su Ergou was usually playful, he was very serious when learning from Wei Ting. He was a proper fanboy. Of course, it was also because Wei Ting had taught him well.

Su Xiaoxiao carried a basket of needles and thread over and pretended to sit beside Su Ergou.

“I'm sewing a few clothes. Since it's expensive to light a few oil lamps and my family isn't well-off, I'll use the oil lamps here. You guys talk. I won't eavesdrop!”

If not for the fact that he had just given her so much silver, Wei Ting would really believe that her family was not well-off.

Wei Ting didn't say anything and continued to teach Su Ergou.

The three little ones liked Su Xiaoxiao too much. They fought to show her their little graffiti.

“Mom, it was written by Xiaohu.”

Xiaohu showed off his… circles.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Not bad. Xiaohu is so smart!”

Dahu and the Erhu had to be praised.

Su Xiaoxiao listened attentively as she dealt with the three little ones.

Wei Ting was really good.

He could tell a story with just one word.

Su Ergou, who did not like to study and only liked to tease cats, play with dogs, and get into all sorts of mischief, actually felt that studying did not seem so annoying anymore.

Su Ergou said, “Brother-in-law, you speak better than the teacher.”

Wei Ting asked, “Did you go to school?”

Su Ergou said, “There's a private school in Shallow Water Village, where Su Yuniang's in-laws live. When I was young, I went there to study for a few days. The teacher found me stupid and troublesome, so he didn't let me go anymore.”

He didn't want to go himself. He hated the Master.

His brother-in-law was different. His brother-in-law never scolded him for being stupid, nor did he chide him if he remembered wrongly.

“These are the words you learned today. Copy them.”

Wei Ting handed Su Ergou a piece of calligraphy and a stack of white paper.

The words on the note were big and angular. Su Xiaoxiao could see them clearly without getting close. The main thing was that there were instructions on the order of the strokes.

Su Ergou scratched his head gloomily. He could read, but he really didn't like writing.

Moreover, why were there so many?

How long was he going to write?

Wei Ting stood up calmly. “Give it to me tomorrow after you're done. I'll go rest first.”

Su Ergou grabbed the brush with a deep vengeance. “Got it, Brother-in-law.”

As soon as Wei Ting left, Su Xiaoxiao took a small stack of calligraphy paper from the table.

“I'll help you write a few!”

“But Sister, do you know how to write?”

Su Xiaoxiao picked up the brush that Wei Ting had used and said without changing her expression, “Hey, who doesn't know how to draw?”

Su Ergou felt that what his sister said made sense. He gave her more books. “Sister, help me write a few more!”

Su Xiaoxiao agreed generously. “Okay!”

Su Ergou lazily climbed onto the bed to sleep.

The siblings had a good relationship and were not that distant.

Su Xiaoxiao brought a small table over and sat on the bed. “Move over!”

“Oh.” Su Ergou rolled up the blanket and wriggled in.

Seeing this, the three little ones instantly threw away the toys in their hands and crawled onto the bed.

Su Xiaoxiao sat cross-legged and practiced calligraphy.

The three little ones somersaulted behind her and played happily!

Chapter 127

After rolling a few times, the three little ones would rub their little heads on Su Xiaoxiao's body. Their actions were very light and wouldn't disturb her writing.

Su Xiaoxiao wanted to laugh. She inexplicably felt like a charging station that was sustaining them.

By the time Su Xiaoxiao finished practicing the last word an hour later, Su Ergou had long fallen asleep. The three little ones had also exhausted their energy and fallen asleep.

Su Xiaoxiao rubbed her sore wrist and looked at the thick stack of her hard work on the table. She felt a sense of achievement.

She quietly got out of bed, put away the table, and tucked the three little ones into the blanket.

After that, she returned to the east room.

She thought that Wei Ting had already rested at this hour. Unexpectedly, as soon as she entered the house, she saw Wei Ting sitting in the room wiping his dagger.

Su Xiaoxiao drooled.

Ah, she really coveted this dagger!

She seriously suspected that this guy did it on purpose!

The goal was to lure her to hand over the token in exchange!

It was a pity that she could not retrieve the token at all. She could only stare enviously.

Su Xiaoxiao swallowed her saliva and walked over unhurriedly. “Why aren't you sleeping in the middle of the night? Why are you sharpening your knife in the room? Are you trying to kill me?”

Wei Ting said calmly, “Do you know that it is late? Yet you are sewing clothes in the middle of the night?”

Su Xiaoxiao rolled her eyes. “I… like to sew for so long!”

Wei Ting: “Heh.”

Su Xiaoxiao shook her head. “Anyway, I wasn't practicing calligraphy!”

Wei Ting was speechless.

After turning off the lights, the two of them lay on the soft bed. Although they had slept together for many days, the two of them did not cross the line.

Su Xiaoxiao blinked and asked, “Wei Ting, why did you say that it took so long for me to sew clothes just now? Do you think I've been gone for too long and you can't sleep if I leave you alone in the room?”

Wei Ting said calmly, “No.”

Su Xiaoxiao: “Oh.”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Then why did you wait for me to come before sleeping?”

Wei Ting said, “Who's waiting for you? Don't flatter yourself.”

“Hmph.” Su Xiaoxiao snorted weakly and turned around with her back facing him.

After thinking for a moment, she turned around and stared at his perfect side profile.

With a handsome man beside her, it was good to take a look!

Not long after, Su Xiaoxiao's eyelids started to flutter. She couldn't open them again.

In the dead of night, Wei Ting's heart calmed down bit by bit as he heard the even breathing beside him.

The hatred and distracting thoughts in his mind gradually faded. He closed his eyes and fell asleep.

Su Xiaoxiao had to do business and woke up early. Unexpectedly, Madam Wu and Liu Ping were even earlier.

Su Xiaoxiao opened the door for the two of them. “Have you waited long?”

“No, I just arrived,” Madam Wu said.

The two of them entered the house.

Su Xiaoxiao said to Liu Ping, “Brother Liu, you don't have to come so early.”

Liu Ping was mainly in charge of carpentry and transportation. He could come after the snacks were finished.

Liu Ping smiled honestly. “I came over to see if I could help. I can chop firewood, carry water, and start a fire!”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Ergou can do these jobs.”

Liu Ping said, “Let Ergou sleep a little longer!”

There was a reason why Su Xiaoxiao changed the shift between the two of them. Not only was there a difference in the division of labor, but she was also concerned about the sisters.

“The two children are still young. As it is, it's not like there were so many adults watching before the separation.”

Their current residence was by the fish pond. It was very quiet and there were no neighbors. If a bandit really came, the two children would be in danger.

Liu Ping felt that it shouldn't be. The village was quite safe. Moreover, he had locked the door when he came out. No one could enter.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Brother Liu, you should go back. Come back at dawn.”

Madam Wu said, “Listen to Daya.”

“Aye… sure!”

Liu Ping scratched his head and went back.

As it turned out, it was fortunate that he complied. As soon as he reached the house, he realized that the lock had been broken. The copper lock used in the countryside was not very complicated. It could be opened with a twist.

Liu Ping's eyebrows twitched as he hurriedly entered the house.

“Meizi!”

“Woo… ”

From inside the house came Mei Zi's suppressed cry.

Liu Ping kicked open the sisters' door. Mei Zi was pressed onto the bed and had her mouth covered. Liu Ping rushed over without a word, grabbed that person's collar, and threw him to the ground!

“Meizi, are you alright?”

He rushed over to support his trembling daughter.

Mei Zi cried in fear. “Dad! There's a thief!”

Halfway through her sleep, Meizi sensed that someone had entered the house. She called out for her father, but the person did not answer. She sensed that something was wrong and wanted to shout for help, but just as she called out twice, the person covered her mouth tightly.

The man panicked and covered her mouth and nose. If Liu Ping had arrived a little later, Mei Zi would have suffocated to death.

The man got up and tried to flee but could Liu Ping let him succeed? He ran up and kicked that person to the ground!

Liu Ping taught the other party a lesson. He knew this person. It was Zhang Xiaoshi from the village. He looked honest, but who would have thought that he would do such a thing?

Liu Ping beat him up until he heaved more air than he breathed. He only stopped when the village head rushed over.

He was extremely glad that he had been chased back by his eldest daughter. Otherwise, something would have really happened to Big Meizi.

Little Meizi did not wake up. What if she had woken up when Big Meizi was being attacked? Was she going to be smothered by Zhang Xiaoshi? Liu Ping felt a lingering fear and kicked Zhang Xiaoshi again!

This matter was indeed too evil. The village head did not cover up and reported it to the officials after dawn.

Zhang Xiaoshi was taken away by the officials.

After this incident, Liu Ping and Little Wu's working hours were staggered. Madam Wu came to work first. After dawn, she went back to see the children and Liu Ping came to work.

If the children woke up early, they would come with Liu Ping.

In the morning, Madam Wu and the children would be at the Su family's house. She had to prepare the salted duck eggs and do some processing work until noon.

Liu Ping was more flexible and was on call. He might have to shop at night or do some woodwork in the afternoon.

Su Xiaoxiao still set up a stall in the alley near Jin Ji, but it was not the shabby stall from before.

She had her own stall and a banner sign written by Wei Ting—Su Ji.

The publicity at the birthday banquet brought great popularity to Su Ji. Now, they did not have to ride on the popularity of Jin Ji at all. Instead, Jin Ji became the “high-end substitute” for Su Ji because it sold the same type of wife cake and chestnut cake.

The so-called high-end substitute was a term to describe spending money to buy from Jin Ji to satisfy one's cravings because one could not eat Su Ji.

Without Su Xiaoxiao's egg yolk, Jin Ji could not make the egg yolk pastry at unless they imported it from the capital. However, in that case, the cost would not be able to be maintained.

Moreover, because of Old Madam Qi's disdain, Jin Ji lost several high-end clients! They wanted to accept orders from high-end families, but they could not!

In stark contrast to Jin Ji, Su Ji was rapidly on the rise.

How popular were Su Ji's snacks?

As long as Su Ji opened the stall, there was no one at the entrance of Jin Ji!

No one expected that after 30 years of popularity, the entity that defeated Jin Ji was actually a roadside stall from the countryside!

What could be good to eat at the roadside stalls?

Sorry, Old Madam Qi was eating that! So was Dean Shen!

Was there a person who was so noble that he wouldn't eat it? It turned out there wasn't.

“Aiyaya! Brother in front, show mercy! I've been waiting for a long time! Leave two for me!”

“You've only been queuing for half a day! I've been queuing for three days and I haven't bought anything once!”

“Miss, make more next time. It's not enough!”

“That's right! If there's business, you have to do it! Who are you saving money for!”

Manager He sat in the room upstairs. Each time he heard these words, he would vomit blood!

Chapter 128

However, he was helpless. After all, Su Ji had become the Qi family's favorite.

Old Madam Qi had said that she would look for Su Ji next time!

With the Qi family's protection, no one in town would dare to suppress Su Ji's business anymore!

Downstairs, Su Xiaoxiao didn't know whether to laugh or cry.

It was not that she was unwilling to do more. In fact, she had already done a lot. From a hundred the day before, there were now more than three hundred in a day, but even so, she still did not have enough to sell.

As for expanding the production scale of snacks, she did not consider it for the time being.

Old Madam Qi's birthday banquet gave her another layer of inspiration.

Of course, whether it could be implemented depended on what came after the birthday banquet.

It was never easy to enter a new market. She had to be patient. Strength and luck were indispensable.

“Sister, I'm done selling!”

Su Ergou said.

He was a little happy and unsatisfied.

Everything sold too quickly and he hadn't had his kicks yet!

“Close the stall,” Su Xiaoxiao said.

“Alright!” Su Ergou obediently put away the folding table.

On the other side, Father Su swaggered over with a big knife.

He laughed as he said, “Daughter, was everything sold out so fast?”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Dad, you don't have to come over tomorrow. Sleep more at home.”

Old Master Su waved his hand. “That won't do! What if some ignorant people think they can cause trouble when Dad isn't around?”

Su Xiaoxiao put the tray back into the basket. “No, they don't have the guts anymore.”

Father Su picked up his daughter's basket and carried it on his shoulder. “That's hard to say! I have to protect you for a while longer!”

Su Xiaoxiao glanced at him and said bluntly, “Dad, you just don't want to learn to farm, right?”

Su Cheng coughed.

“What nonsense were you talking about? Aiya, I'll go see if that brat Zhang Dao is back. I want to hack him to death!”

Su Cheng slipped away!

Manager He's eyebrows twitched at Su Cheng's words.

Hacking people?

Was he serious?

Was there anyone normal in this family?

However, Su Xiaoxiao was right. Manager He did not dare to touch Su Xiaoxiao easily now.

Firstly, this family was too good at fighting. Ordinary martial arts practitioners could not do anything to them. He would have to pay a higher price to invite more powerful experts from the prefecture capital, but that was not something that could be done easily.

As the saying went, the soft was afraid of the hard, the hard was afraid of the rough, and the rough was afraid of the dead.

He was arrogant but this family did not care about their lives!

Secondly, he had just blocked them once, and that girl had joined forces with Manager Sun to snatch a big business deal from Jin Ji. He felt that if he continued to block them, Jin Ji might suffer even greater losses.

He had to slow down and reconsider his plans.

Su Xiaoxiao and Su Ergou returned to the village first.

Many villagers came to get water from the well at the entrance of the village and saw the siblings.

Su Ergou was visibly taller. He was originally half a head shorter than Su Xiaoxiao, but now he was almost at her eyebrows.

Su Xiaoxiao had also changed a lot. The last time she weighed herself was more than half a month ago, and she had lost 20 pounds.

Su Xiaoxiao felt that she had lost eight or nine pounds recently. The belt of her pants had clearly loosened, and the villagers could tell that her face had shrunk.

And her skin was really tender.

As the villagers looked at her, they could not take their eyes off her.

“Daya! Are you done with Ergou? How's business today?”

It was Auntie Liu.

Su Xiaoxiao said politely, “Thanks to you, it's not bad.”

“Sister Fatty!” Goudan greeted her.

“Does your throat still hurt?” Su Xiaoxiao asked him.

Gou Dan shook his head. “It doesn't hurt anymore!”

Goudan was the little boy who went to her to get the fish bones extracted. In the past, he was also afraid of Fatty Su. Now, he was not afraid anymore and praised Fatty Su every time he met someone.

Some people didn't mean any harm by calling her Fatty. Su Xiaoxiao was used to it.

The women began to whisper.

“Did you notice that the fat girl has become prettier?”

“You just realized?”

“Has she lost weight?”

“Her face is fair and tender. It used to be dark and yellow and she had acne.”

“Do you think she's a young lady? She's married! I heard that as long as the man is powerful, the woman will be… nourished!”

This group of aunties started talking dirty.

Su Xiaoxiao decisively pulled Su Ergou away.

“That fat girl's face is almost better-looking than Jinniang's.”

Just as the Sun family's daughter-in-law finished speaking, Su Jinniang walked over with a bucket.

Someone tugged at the sleeve of the Sun family's daughter-in-law. When the latter saw this, she hurriedly shut up. She hoped that Su Jinniang didn't hear what she said just now. Otherwise, it would be awkward.

Su Jinniang greeted everyone as usual and chatted happily.

Thinking that she probably didn't hear it, the Sun family's daughter-in-law was relieved.

However, when Su Jinniang walked back after getting the water, her expression quickly darkened.

Since Su Yuniang refused to return to her in-laws' house, Zheng Lanxiu and Cripple Feng really lived with the Su family and refused to leave.

When Su Jinniang walked to the door of the house with a bucket of water, she saw Cripple Feng looking at a certain place in a daze, looking like he was about to drool.

Su Jinniang followed his gaze and saw Fatty Su and Su Ergou gradually disappearing into the distance.

When Fatty Su entered the house and could not be seen, Cripple Feng smacked his lips and turned to return to the house. He bumped into Su Jinniang.

He quickly smiled. “Yo, Jinniang is back! Did you go get water? Why didn't you tell me? I'd have helped you! Come, come, come! Give it to me!”

Su Jinniang frowned and avoided his perverted hand. “I'll do it myself!”

Cripple Feng chuckled and Su Jinniang entered the house in disgust.

Dinner was prepared by Su Jinniang and Madam Fang. There were six dishes, a soup, and four vegetarian dishes. The meat dishes were a bowl of fatty meat fried with cabbages, and a plate of fried pickled fish wrapped in flour.

The Su family's conditions were not bad in the village, but they did not eat meat every meal, especially after the new year. The family usually ate vegetarian food for half a month.

There were guests at home, so Old Master Su asked Madam Fang to make two meat dishes.

Su Yuniang was still eating in her room during her confinement.

It was a rule in the countryside that women did not go to the table. It was also a rule of the Su family.

Old Madam Su, Madam Fang, and Su Jinniang usually sat in the kitchen to eat, but Zheng Lanxiu was a guest after all, so it was not appropriate for her to stay in the kitchen. Hence, she went to the central room to set up a separate table.

After Zheng Lanxiu finished her food, Su Jinniang went to refill her food in the kitchen.

Su Xiaoxiao happened to pass by through the back door and was about to go up the mountain to dig up some wild vegetables to make three favorite wild vegetable meatballs.

Su Jinniang looked at her up close and her expression changed slightly.

The Su family only ate two meals. The second meal was earlier, unlike the Su family, which had three meals and only made dinner at night.

It was still early, so it was obvious what Fatty Su looked like.

She was still the same person, but she seemed different in every way.

She didn't seem to be so fat anymore. Her skin had also improved. It was fair and smooth.

Was this really Fatty Su?

Why did she suddenly look better?

Su Xiaoxiao glanced at her. “Why are you looking at me? I didn't wear the same clothes as you today!”

Su Jinniang clenched her fists jealously.

When they returned to the central room, Su Jinniang handed the bowl of rice to Zheng Lanxiu and sat down beside Madam Fang.

The two tables were not far apart, and Cripple Feng was sitting behind her.

She picked up the bowl and ate some rice. She said in a low voice, “Fatty Su is really something. She's still running up the mountain alone at this hour. Isn't she afraid that she won't be able to come back if she encounters any danger?”

Cripple Feng's ears pricked up.

Was the little fat girl… going up the mountain alone?!

Chapter 129

After dinner, Cripple Feng went out.

Cripple Feng was not a child, and it was not his first time in the village. He also knew many villagers in the village. As such, Zheng Lanxiu and the Su family did not take it to heart. They thought that he was just wandering around the village.

There was only one path up the back mountain from Old Su's house. If one walked east, he would end up at the place where the villagers usually gathered firewood.

The bolder villagers would walk further forward and hunt, catch fish, or dig wild vegetables.

Su Xiaoxiao couldn't name the wild vegetables that Su Ergou dug last time. They were a little like the black flat vegetables she had eaten in her previous life. They were extremely resistant to the cold and could grow in the snow, but they were slightly sweeter than what she had in modern times.

She would mince it with pork, before mixing it with egg white and wrapping it in flour.

Whether it was fried in the oil pan or steamed, it was very fresh, fragrant, and tender.

“Phew!”

Su Xiaoxiao climbed halfway up the mountain.

She remembered that the first time she climbed, she rested three or four times. She panted like a calf and worked off more than 20 catties of fat. At this point, not only was her body lighter, but her heart and lungs were also stronger.

“Ergou said that he dug beside the old locust tree. Where's the old locust tree?”

Su Xiaoxiao raised her sleeve to wipe her sweat and looked around for the old locust tree that Su Ergou mentioned.

She had never been able to chop firewood here in the past, so she was not too familiar with this place.

However, it was early now, so there was no hurry.

“Ah! I see it!”

The old locust tree was blocked by a few pine trees. It was actually just about ten steps to the right.

Su Xiaoxiao walked over with the small basket on her back. She squatted down and took out a shovel to dig the snow.

The snow melted a lot, leaving only a thin layer. After digging twice, green wild vegetables were revealed.

Su Xiaoxiao smiled and placed the basket aside.

This wild vegetable had to be cut with scissors. If she left the root behind, it could continue to grow.

Su Xiaoxiao put away the shovel and took out the scissors.

One, two, three…

Su Xiaoxiao squatted on the ground and moved forward as she cut. Unknowingly, she had filled most of the basket.

“It should be enough to eat for a long time. I can go back.”

Su Xiaoxiao clapped her hands and put the scissors away. She grabbed the basket and prepared to leave the mountain.

At this moment, a figure suddenly rushed forward and blocked her path.

It was Cripple Feng.

Cripple Feng walked towards Su Xiaoxiao with a smile. “Aiya, isn't this Fatty? Where are the wild vegetables you dug up on the mountain? Did you dig them up? Do you need my help?”

Su Xiaoxiao frowned.

Why was Cripple Feng here?

Cripple Feng was empty-handed. He did not look like he had come up the mountain to chop firewood, catch fish or dig wild vegetables.

Su Xiaoxiao glanced at him coldly. Cripple Feng was a relative of the Su family, and she had nothing to do with him.

Su Xiaoxiao couldn't be bothered with him and walked back.

Cripple Feng smiled wretchedly and blocked Su Xiaoxiao.

“Hey! Don't be in a hurry to leave. Look at how tired you are, carrying such a heavy thing. Come, give me the basket! I'll help you take down the mountain!”

“You girls are delicate and tender. You shouldn't be doing such rough work!”

“Your husband really doesn't know how to dote on you! A beautiful wife like you should just warm the bed!”

“It's okay. Brother Feng will dote on you!”

Cripple Feng was not from the village after all. Although he had heard of the Su family's bad reputation, he had never really experienced how powerful Fatty Su was.

In his opinion, he was a man. Fatty Su could not defeat him.

Once he was done with her, would Fatty Su dare to publicize it?

Even if she really announced it, he would insist that she had seduced her.

She was so fat and had a bad reputation. Who would believe that he could like her?

At most, he would be scolded by Zheng Lanxiu and lose a lot of flesh!

As he thought about it, Cripple Feng became even bolder. He opened his arms and pounced at Fatty Su!

He planned to hug Fatty Su. If Fatty Su dodged, he would continue. Little did he expect Fatty Su to raise her leg and kick him to the ground!

Cripple Feng fell into a bed of snow. Although the snow was soft, his teeth flew out! This was a testament to the amount of strength she had!

Cripple Feng was in so much pain that he doubted his life.

It was no wonder that he was so surprised. Most people would either be too afraid to move or scream when they were molested.

Who would react like Fatty Su who kicked him?

Su Xiaoxiao had never been soft-hearted when dealing with perverts like Cripple Feng.

She took a step forward and kicked Cripple Feng in the back.

Cripple Feng was sent flying again! He felt his organs displace. As he hit the tree behind him, one could hear the sound of his joints cracking.

He didn't know which bone was broken…

Cripple Feng cursed in his heart in pain as Su Xiaoxiao slowly walked up to him.

She couldn't even be bothered to say anything to a scumbag like Cripple Feng. She raised her foot again.

Cripple Feng was afraid. He was really afraid!

“Fatty! Have mercy! I was wrong! I won't block your way anymore! Let me go!”

“Block my way?” Su Xiaoxiao chuckled. “Did you just want to block my way just now?”

“I…” Cripple Feng was frightened and cold.” I… I wanted to help you carry your things Aiya! ”

“Dishonest.”

Su Xiaoxiao kicked him again.

Cripple Feng, who was already half dead, howled in distress! Unfortunately, this was the depths of the forest, and no one could hear him.

Cripple Feng lay on the ground and cried. “Fatty! No! Daya… Daya, spare me!”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Who are you to call me Daya?”

Cripple Feng hurriedly changed his words. “Su, Su, Su, Su… Miss Su! Heroine Su! I was wrong! I shouldn't have touched you! I won't dare to do it again! Please… let me go…”

He cried miserably, as snot and tears streamed down his face.

Su Xiaoxiao felt disgusted and couldn't be bothered to kick him. She walked past him.

Cripple Feng really gave up now and did not dare to have any improper thoughts about Fatty Su.

The Su family's bully lived up to her reputation!

Su Xiaoxiao suddenly stopped after taking a few steps.

Cripple Feng was about to stand up when he saw her posture. He was so frightened that he hugged his head and squatted down!

Su Xiaoxiao turned around!

“Stop hitting me! Heroine! I've realized my mistake!”

“Shut up!” Su Xiaoxiao ordered.

Cripple Feng choked. His voice was stuck in his throat.

Su Xiaoxiao held her breath and listened to the commotion in the distance, her expression becoming more and more solemn.

Cripple Feng also sensed that something was wrong with her. It was not directed at him, but…

“There's something in the forest…” Su Xiaoxiao muttered and glared at Cripple Feng. It was this guy's cries that attracted something he shouldn't have.

Su Xiaoxiao started fleeing!

Cripple Feng scrambled after her. “Heroine! Wait for me! Don't leave me here alone!”

“Roar!”

The roar of a forest overlord came from the depths of the forest.

Cripple Feng's expression changed drastically. “It's a big worm!”

Chapter 130

The big worm was not a worm, but a tiger in the mountains.

The place where Su Xiaoxiao dug wild vegetables was not too deep. Under normal circumstances, they would not encounter ferocious beasts. It could only be said that they were too unlucky today.

Many animals hibernated in winter. Those who did not hibernate also reduced their daily activities, making it difficult for the big worm to hunt.

The big worm expanded the range of its prey. Coupled with Cripple Feng's cries, it successfully attracted the big worm's attention.

Su Xiaoxiao glanced at Cripple Feng coldly. “If I had known, I would have killed you!”

Cripple Feng cried, “Heroine Su, please spare me!”

If her body had experienced the harsh training of the army in her previous life, Su Xiaoxiao would naturally not be afraid of a big worm. However, she was now a little fat girl weighing more than 180 catties ….

It was difficult to fight head-on. The best strategy was to escape!

Unfortunately, the big worm was much faster than them.

It was not strange to think about it. The big worm was the king of the mountains, and the forest was its territory. How could it let two humans escape from under its nose?

The big worm quickly caught up to the two of them and blocked their path.

Su Xiaoxiao changed direction and the big worm continued to give chase!

It turned out that without qinggong, two legs could not outrun four.

When they were forced to an empty space by the big worm, Su Xiaoxiao knew that she couldn't run from the big worm anymore.

With no obstacles, the big worm only needed to jump up neatly and easily push one of them to the ground.

The big worm that had been hungry for the entire winter was very terrifying. It would never let go of its prey easily.

It looked back and forth between Su Xiaoxiao and Cripple Feng as if it was secretly contemplating which prey was more delicious.

Cripple Feng was thin and shriveled. His flesh would be old and dry.

Su Xiaoxiao, on the other hand, was different. She was fair and fat, looking fresh and juicy.

The big worm decisively drooled at Su Xiaoxiao.

However, Su Xiaoxiao's tonnage was a little daunting.

It had never seen such a “huge monster”.

She was round and looked like a cub that was about to grow up.

The big worm began to probe carefully.

Su Xiaoxiao knew that she could not show any fear now. Otherwise, once the big worm confirmed that she was a weak prey, it would launch a full-scale attack on her!

She had to find a chance to subdue the big worm!

It was easy to say but very difficult to do.

Although she had experienced all kinds of harsh training in her previous life, she had never really fought a tiger and lacked combat experience.

She could only improvise.

The big worm roared at Su Xiaoxiao.

Su Xiaoxiao did not dodge and her eyes were very calm.

Cripple Feng, who was at the side, had long collapsed to the ground in fear. His limbs were weak, and he could not even shout for help.

He did not understand how Fatty Su could remain calm in the face of danger. If it were a man, he would have peed his pants!

Seeing that its roar did not scare its prey away, the big insect worm gave up on immediately pouncing forward. Instead, it slowly approached Su Xiaoxiao.

Su Xiaoxiao took out the shovel from the basket.

When the big worm was about ten steps away from Su Xiaoxiao, it suddenly jumped up. Instead of charging straight at her, it first stepped on the tree at the side and used the momentum to pivot and leap onto another tree. It only stopped for an instant on each tree.

It seemed to be borrowing strength, but also seemed to be hiding.

Damn! This tiger actually knew how to play a game of deception!

If not for Su Xiaoxiao's training, she would have been dazzled.

Swish!

The big worm pounced over!

Only to have Su Xiaoxiao slap it with the shovel!

Feel the power and anger from the little fat lass!

Bang!

The big worm fell to the ground as its mind buzzed!

Su Xiaoxiao used all her strength, but the price was that half of her chubby arm was numb.

Cripple Feng was dumbfounded.

Was he seeing things?

Did Fatty Su knock down a big worm?

The big worm was not so easily injured, nor would it give up easily.

The rules of survival in the jungle had always been cruel. It had been hungry all winter. If it didn't feed soon, it would die.

Therefore, it had to fill its stomach today no matter what!

It pounced at Su Xiaoxiao again.

Su Xiaoxiao snorted, “Hehe, are you the only one who knows how to move?”

Alright, it was indeed the only one that knew how to do it.

This fat body could not run…

Su Xiaoxiao waited patiently and restrained herself. In a few breaths, she exchanged more than ten moves with the big worm.

Crack!

The shovel broke!

No kidding?

At this time?

The big took the opportunity to throw Su Xiaoxiao to the ground.

Su Xiaoxiao grabbed the basket on the ground and blocked the big worm's bloody mouth!

“Cripple Feng!”

She turned her head and shouted.

Cripple Feng: “Huh?”

Did Fatty Su call him?

Why did she call him?

He was afraid…

“Give me the scissors!” Fatty Su said.

The fallen scissors were behind the big worm, and Cripple Feng did not dare to go over.

He slumped under the tree, and there happened to be several large rocks on the side.

He grabbed a small rock with trepidation and threw it at the big worm weakly.

Snap.

It did hit the target, but it was too soft. There was not even a sound.

Su Xiaoxiao's face darkened. He was just tickling it!

However, Cripple Feng's actions still attracted the big worm's attention.

The big worm turned its head and looked at Cripple Feng with thick saliva dripping from its mouth.

Cripple Feng was so frightened that his face turned pale. For some reason, he got up and ran!

Although the big worm was not very interested in Cripple Feng, its dumb animal instinct of chasing prey was triggered when he ran. It actually gave up on Su Xiaoxiao and chased after Cripple Feng.

The big worm bit Cripple Feng's left calf.

“Ah!”

Cripple Feng screamed and fell into the snow!

The canine teeth pierced through his flesh, and blood flowed!

This time, Cripple Feng really became a cripple.

He almost fainted from the pain!

Si Xiaoxiao took advantage of the fleeting opportunity. She picked up the scissors from the ground and held them tightly with both hands. Without a moment to lose, she rushed over and stabbed the animal's neck!

She had pricked the carotid artery. This place could quickly cut off the oxygen supply to the brain, causing life to enter an oxygen-deprived or even oxygen-free state.

Under such circumstances, its consciousness and strength would dissipate.

As long as the wound was big, deep, and precise, it would lose its offensive power in the shortest time possible!

“Roar!”

The big worm let go of Cripple Feng's leg in pain and turned its head to struggle, trying to escape Su Xiaoxiao's attack.

Su Xiaoxiao decisively stabbed the creature with the pair of scissors again, causing it to roar and throw Su Xiaoxiao off!

Su Xiaoxiao turned around and knelt on one knee, supporting herself with her palms!

Cripple Feng felt that Fatty Su was incomparably cool at this moment!

The big worm roared angrily to vent its pain and anger. It rolled on the ground a few times and finally pounced on Cripple Feng!

Cripple Feng peed his pants!

“Ah!”

He was going to be eaten by Big Worm!

However, the expected pain did not come.

The big worm suddenly stopped moving. It lay on him and panted, drooling. Its breathing became weaker and weaker until it ceased to breathe.

Chapter 131

The surroundings became very quiet.

The strong smell of blood mixed with the unpleasant smell of urine made Cripple Feng vomit.

Was… was the big worm dead?

Killed by Fatty Su?

Did Fatty Su… killed a big worm?

Cripple Feng was so shocked that he even forgot about the pain in his leg.

A few men could not kill a big worm, but Fatty Su did.

Had she eaten a bear's heart and leopard's gall just now? And he had decided it was a good idea to harass her?

When Cripple Feng looked at Fatty Su again, he was no longer looking at her like he was looking at a woman.

If she could kill a big worm, didn't that mean that Fatty Su was even more terrifying than a big worm?

Cripple Feng trembled!

Su Xiaoxiao didn't have the time to care what Cripple Feng was thinking. Fighting with the big worm had exhausted her stamina, so she had to rest for a while.

She had just reflected that her heart and lungs had improved, but after a fight, she realized that she was still far from her goal.

No wonder so many people gave up halfway while trying to lose weight. When one thought a big step had been made, it was actually just a small step. It was a huge dampener to one's willpower,

Su Xiaoxiao looked up at the gradually darkening sky. She would not give up. In her dictionary, there was no such thing as giving up!

Su Xiaoxiao raised her hand to wipe her sweat.

Unexpectedly, a drop of blood fell.

She thought it was the blood of the big worm and didn't mind. However, just as she got up, she sensed that something was wrong.

Why was she feeling a little dizzy?

She looked at the back of her hand again. There was a slender cut on it. She had cut it at some point.

This was very strange. This body's pain receptors were abnormally developed. Although she was wearing thick clothes and had thick fat, she was extremely sensitive wounds like that.

“Why doesn't it hurt?”

“The back of my hand… is a little dark…”

“This is…”

“Have I been poisoned?”

No one here had poisoned her. Cripple Feng did not have the ability, and the big worm did not have the intelligence. There was only one possibility.

While escaping or fighting the big worm, she accidentally cut herself brushing past the poisonous vines along the way.

The sap of this poisonous vine had the effect of numbing the nerves, causing her to not notice any pain.

She fell back to the ground.

“Daya… can you help me move the big worm away?”

Cripple Feng asked weakly.

Even if it was a dead animal, he was still afraid.

Su Xiaoxiao said nothing.

Cripple Feng looked at her strangely. “Daya, what's wrong? Are you tired? Your expression seems a little off… Daya…”

Su Xiaoxiao fainted.

At Little Su's house, the three little ones played in the backyard. As they played, they began to feel frustrated. They kept scratching their heads and walking in circles.

This was a sign of extreme anxiety.

They had not been like this for a long time.

To be precise, ever since they came to Apricot Flower Village and lived with the Su family, they had gradually become normal children by observing Niudan and the other children in the village.

However, only Wei Ting and the man in black knew that the three little fellows were originally different from ordinary children.

“Come to Dad,” Wei Ting said to the three of them.

The three of them grabbed their heads and frowned as they came to his side.

They were very irritable.

And very frustrated.

They snuggled in his arms and kept scratching their heads. The tender skin on their heads was about to tear.

Wei Ting held their hands and tried to divert their attention. “Do you want to eat?”

The three of them shook their heads.

“Feed the horse?”

The three of them shook their heads.

Looking at the three of them's uncomfortable and uneasy expressions, Wei Ting's heart ached, but he did not know how to comfort them.

If she were here…

“My lord!”

The man in black jumped into the courtyard and knelt on one knee. Just as he was about to report something, Father Su came out of the house.

He leaped onto the roof.

“Son-in-law, have you seen Daya?” Su Cheng asked.

“No,” Wei Ting said.

Father Su went to the central room again. “Ergou! Have you seen your sister?”

Su Ergou said, “I think she went to the mountain to dig for wild vegetables.”

“When did she go?” Father Su asked again.

Su Ergou thought for a moment. “Well… it's been a while, right?”

Su Xiaoxiao often went up the mountain to dig wild vegetables and chop firewood, mainly to lose weight. She usually went for a long time.

“Dad, what's the matter?” Su Ergou asked.

Father Su frowned. “I'm panicking here. No, I have to look for her!”

“I'll go too!” Su Ergou said.

“Sure!” Father Su did not refuse. He went to the backyard to inform Wei Ting and ask him to keep an eye on the three children. Then, he went up the mountain with Su Ergou.

The man in black had a puzzled expression. They were clearly his young masters. Of course, his master would watch over them. Did he need them to remind him?

Still…

The scene just now did look like that of a family…

“My Lord!”

The man in black almost forgot about the serious matter. He descended from the roof and looked at the three anxious little ones in Wei Ting's arms. “Are the young masters… acting up again?”

Wei Ting gave him a cold look.

The man in black hurriedly lowered his head. “I misspoke!”

Wei Ting patted the backs of the three of them, as he tried to calm them down.

The three of them felt very uncomfortable, but they could not express it.

Wei Ting was at his wit's end, and so was the man in black.

Forget it, he would talk about the information he found first!

“Lord, I just found out that Young Marquis Jing is in Apricot Flower Town! Lord, do you think… ”

Wei Ting stood up and left.

In the evening, it snowed again in the mountains.

Cripple Feng's calf was bitten, and he was in extreme pain. After taking a few steps, he could not walk anymore and sat down on the ground.

The snow on the ground had actually almost melted, and only some vegetation was covered in a thin layer.

In front of him was a dead tiger, and beside him was the unconscious Fatty Su.

What was worth mentioning was that the distance between him and Fatty Su was even greater than the distance between him and the big worm.

If Fatty Su had fainted in front of him two hours ago, it would be strange if he was not happy.

However, after a series of narrow escapes just now, he was already scared out of his wits. How could he dare to have any improper thoughts about Fatty Su?

Coupled with his leg injury, he felt like he was dying.

“Fatty Su… Don't die… How can I leave the mountain if you die?”

“Get up and help me down the mountain…”

“Why don't you call someone over…”

“Wuwu…”

Soon, Cripple Feng also passed out because he had lost too much blood.

“Daughter!”

“Sister!”

Father Su and Su Ergou searched for Su Xiaoxiao in the forest.

This was the bad thing about the snow melting. The footprints could not be seen.

Su Cheng was furious. “Why didn't she answer me? Isn't it nearby?”

Su Ergou said, “But if she was digging for wild vegetables, it's in this area!”

The snow kept falling, quietly burying the already thin traces.

Father Su looked at the silent forest and felt uneasy for a long time.

It was almost dark. Where had Daya gone?

Chapter 132

Su Xiaoxiao lay on the cold grass and let the snow fall on her face and body.

She could not feel the pain and coldness. She could no longer tell if it was the effect of the poisonous vines or if she was frozen.

Was it an illusion?

Why did she hear someone calling her?

But she couldn't make any sound.

It was not easy for her to be reborn. Was she going to die here?

Her eyelids were getting heavier. If she fell asleep now… she would never wake up.

But really… she couldn't hold on anymore.

In her daze, she vaguely saw a tall figure walking toward her.

She opened her mouth to say something but fell completely unconscious.

Wei Ting squatted down and touched her forehead before picking up her injured chubby hand.

Usually, she would cry like this with just a scratch. Now, with this inch-long wound, who knew how many tears she would shed?

“My Lord!”

After the man in black checked his surroundings, he reported, “An injured man and a dead big worm. The man was bitten by the big worm. The big worm… died from having its throat pierced. The scissors were not sharp. It was stabbed at least twice.”

Wei Ting frowned.

The man in black looked at Cripple Feng and then at Su Xiaoxiao. “Lord, between the two of them, who stabbed the big worm?”

That stabbing was too ruthless. It was difficult to believe that an ordinary person could do it.

However, other than the two of them, there was no trace of a third person.

Wei Ting didn't say anything and looked coldly at the wound on Su Xiaoxiao's hand.

The man in black also came over to take a look. He dipped his fingertip into the dried blood on the back of her hand and sniffed it.

“Lord, she was cut by the poisonous vine.”

“Is it serious?” Wei Ting asked.

The man in black thought for a moment. “If it were any other woman, it might be very serious.”

Wei Ting frowned. “What do you mean?”

The man in black muttered, “The wound isn't deep. She's so fat. This dose won't kill her. She'll be fine after lying down for two days!”

He said that she was fine, but why did he still feel that there was killing intent in his lord's eyes?

Wei Ting took off his cotton jacket and covered Su Xiaoxiao's frozen fat body.

“My Lord!”

The man in black's expression changed!

How could his lord take off his clothes for a woman?

Wei Ting helped Su Xiaoxiao sit up and turned around to carry her on his back.

The man in black's expression turned even worse. “Lord! Let me do it!”

This woman was so fat! She would crush his lord!

Moreover, his lord's leg was injured!

Wei Ting rejected him with a look. He stood up with Su Xiaoxiao on his back.

This was not the first time Wei Ting had carried Su Xiaoxiao. On New Year's Eve, when she fell asleep, he was the one who carried her back.

It had only been twenty days, but he clearly felt the weight on his back lighten.

“Take the walking stick,” Wei Ting said.

The man in black picked up the walking stick on the ground resentfully.

Did he still remember that he had a walking stick? Didn't he realize that his leg had recovered? Did he still want to return to the capital?

“There are also wild vegetables,” Wei Ting instructed.

The corners of the man in black's mouth twitched. He was the legitimate son of the Wei family. When did he start thinking about a few stalks of wild vegetables?

“Lorf, what about that person?” the man in black asked gloomily.

“Carry that down the mountain,” Wei Ting said calmly.

“Oh.”

The man in black reluctantly walked towards Cripple Feng. Was there a need to carry this thin piece of pork rib?

“I mean the tiger,” Wei Ting said.

“Why are we carrying the tiger down the mountain?”

Wei Ting said calmly, “For money.”

The man in black was speechless.

The man in black said, “Sir, you're limping. Do you think it's possible for you to carry a big worm and a fat girl back? The villagers will be suspicious!”

Wei Ting glanced at him and said, “So you'll be the one selling it.”

The man in black was speechless again. His face darkened as he resigned himself to fate and carried the tiger's carcass on his shoulder.

After becoming a woodcutter, he also became a tiger hunter.

His lord was a different person!

“What about this person?”

The man in black kicked the unconscious Cripple Feng.

Wei Ting thought for a moment. “Bring him.”

“Oh.” The man in black grabbed Cripple Feng's collar with one hand.

His lord only said that they would bring him along, but he did not say how.

He dragged Cripple Feng down the mountain like a sack.

Cripple Feng was dizzy from the rough handling. His butt rubbed the ground all the way. He was woken up by the pain a few times and fainted again.

The man in black threw Cripple Feng at the foot of the mountain and left.

Cripple Feng was discovered by a villager who came out to relieve himself.

Since Cripple Feng was covered in blood, the villager almost thought he had seen a ghost.

It took him a while to recognize that they were relatives of the Su family. He hurriedly went to the Su family to report.

The Su family was naturally in chaos. Cripple Feng was fine when he left. How did he become like this in just a while?

“Aiya!” Zheng Lanxiu pounced on her man and cried. “Damn it! Who did it?”

Su Jinniang came too.

Only she knew that Cripple Feng had gone to the back mountain, but she never expected him to return in this state.

Did Cripple Feng succeed or not?

Why was he injured like this?

“Brother Wei! Fat Lass!”

The ten-year-old Su Sanlang pointed at the village road ahead.

Wei Ting took another path down the mountain and deliberately avoided Cripple Feng.

He didn't know what had happened on the mountain, but he knew that there were many gossipers in the countryside.

Su Xiaoxiao was covered in his cotton coat and was carefully protected.

“Brother Ting, where did you go?” It was the Junior Officer.

Wei Ting said politely, “I accompanied Daya to the mountain to pick some wild vegetables. She was tired and fell asleep.”

Su Jinniang thought.

Fatty Su had clearly gone up the mountain alone!

She saw clearly that Wei Ting did not accompany her!

Could it be that… Cripple Feng had succeeded?

Did Wei Ting find them on the mountain and witness Fat Lass Su losing her innocence? Could he have seriously injured Cripple Feng in his anger?

Fatty Su had been tainted by another man and he had seen it… He had seen it…

Su Jinniang's heart thumped.

When Wei Ting arrived home, Father Su and Su Ergou had just come out of the house.

The two of them had gone to the mountain to look for her but to no avail. They wondered if Su Daya had already returned, so they went home to take a look.

Seeing that there was no one at home, they planned to look for her again.

“Son-in-law? Daughter!”

“Eh? Brother-in-law! Why are you with my sister? What happened to my sister?”

The father and son welcomed him.

“I met her on the mountain. She might have encountered a big worm.” Wei Ting had nothing to hide from his family. Most importantly, he could not hide it either. She was covered in blood.

Wei Ting continued, “There was another villager who was injured. Daya's injuries aren't serious. Dad, don't worry.”

The father and son did not care about Crippled Feng at this moment. After all, Crippled Feng was a relative of the Su family and had nothing to do with their family.

The father and son didn't think in that direction. They were worried about Su Xiaoxiao and followed Wei Ting into the house.

Father Su spread the blanket and Wei Ting placed her on the soft bed.

Her body looked bloodstained, but it was actually not hers. As for the wound on the back of her hand, it was as the man in black had said. It was fine. Even the color of the scar had faded.

The reason why she was unconscious was that there was still some poison left in her body.

Even though Wei Ting had repeatedly promised that Su Xiaoxiao would be fine, Father Su's heart still ached. “You can't let your sister go up the mountain alone next time. You have to follow, understand?”

“Got it!” Su Ergou agreed solemnly.

Father Su continued, “Forget it, I'll follow!”

After saying that, he looked at Wei Ting and grabbed his hand. “Son-in-law, it's all thanks to you this time!”

Wei Ting said, “It's my duty as a family.”

Before going up the mountain, Wei Ting entrusted the three children to Little Wu.

Wei Ting's leg was swollen again so Su Ergou went to fetch the three of them back.

The first thing the three of them did when they entered the house was to look for Su Xiaoxiao.

The three of them began to climb onto the bed!

They wanted to sleep with their mother!

But as they climbed, the three of them stopped.

Their mother didn't sleep during the day…

The three of them looked at Wei Ting uneasily.

The three little fellows were more sensitive than ordinary children and sensed that something was wrong so quickly.

Wei Ting said without changing his expression, “Your mother only fell asleep… She was exhausted during the day… so she fell asleep. I'm not lying to you. If you don't believe me, ask her yourself when your mother wakes up.”

In order to increase their acceptance, he deliberately referred to Su Xiaoxiao as “your mother”. This was something that he never used to do.

The three of them enjoyed it and believed their father.

They sensibly stopped climbing onto the bed and gently came to her pillow. They stood on their tiptoes and kissed Su Xiaoxiao's face one by one.

It was very soft. They did not want to wake their mother.

They were also very careful as if they were protecting the most precious thing in their lives.

Chapter 133

It was late at night when Su Xiaoxiao woke up.

The oil lamp in the room was lit, and there were three sticky children under the blanket.

Ever since the night of New Year's Eve, the little kids had gone back to sleep with Su Ergou, but tonight, they said that they would not go over.

Wei Ting did not object.

The three of them were very anxious during the day, but after lying beside a certain someone, they calmed down.

Even if she didn't do anything, it seemed that as long as she was around, the three little fellows would feel much better.

The man in black was also very surprised by this.

Even his lord could not appease the young masters, but this woman did it easily.

The young masters had been hunted down since they were born. Before they were weaned, they had started to go into hiding. It was unknown how many days they had lived without seeing the light of day. The longest time was when they hid in the cellar for a month.

By the time they found the three young masters, the nanny was already dead.

The three of them lay beside the already stiff corpse. They didn't even have the strength to cry.

They were still young and did not understand many things. They might even think that it was normal to escape death and live in the darkness.

After the adults brought them to their side, they always tried their best to let them live a normal life.

Unfortunately, from time to time, they would appear anxious like what happened today.

It was as if… they lived under the sun, but their hearts had fallen into a dark corner.

Su Xiaoxiao didn't know what the man in black was thinking. To be precise, she didn't know that there was such a person near her.

The first thing she did after opening her eyes was not to check her injuries, but to look at the three little ones who were sleeping soundly.

How cute. They looked cute even when they were asleep.

She couldn't help propping herself up on her elbows and lowering her head to kiss their soft faces.

One kiss wasn't enough. She kissed them a few more times.

Their cheeks were soft and bounced on touch. It was too addictive!

Wasn't this more fun than the window dolls she used to see in the shops?

After kissing them, she looked up. “Uh… Wei Ting?”

Wei Ting was not asleep. He was sitting at the table with a stack of calligraphy she and Su Ergou had written. Well, they were mainly written by her.

Thinking of her actions just now, Su Xiaoxiao cleared her throat calmly.

Was it a little too much to kiss his sons a few times?

Wei Ting did not tease her. Instead, he looked at her and asked, “Doesn't your hand hurt?”

“Huh? Oh, you're talking about this.”

She had almost forgotten about it if Wei Ting had not mentioned it. She looked at the back of her right hand. Her skin color and senses had returned to normal, and her wound had closed. There was no discomfort anywhere in her body.

It seemed that the poison was not very strong. It could only paralyze people for a while. After that, it would be naturally metabolized by the human body.

“It's fine… Where's the big worm?”

Wei Ting said, “It's dead.”

Why was thinking about a tiger the first thing she did when she woke up?

“Sigh, what a pity.” Su Xiaoxiao sighed. “It wasn't easy to kill it. It should be able to sell for a lot of money.”

Otherwise, why would she work so hard to kill the tiger in the end? To save the Cripple Feng?

It was all about the money!

Wei Ting placed a money bag on her table.

Su Xiaoxiao's eyes lit up. “Is this for family expenses again?”

Wei Ting said without changing his expression, “I picked it up from the mountain.”

Needless to say, he could really be considered to have gone up the mountain to pick it up this time.

However, he picked up a tiger and ordered the number one assassin of the Shadow Pavilion to sell it in town.

The explanation was technically not wrong.

“Hehe.” Su Xiaoxiao's happiness returned!

It was good to have money!

Su Xiaoxiao opened the money bag and counted the ingots. Her eyes were almost green.

“By the way, Wei Ting, did you carry me back?”

She remembered fainting on the mountain.

Wei Ting snorted indifferently.

Only then did she react!

“Is your leg fine?” Su Xiaoxiao asked.

Wei Ting snorted calmly. “Thanks to you, I'm crippled again.”

This guy's physique was really impressive. Ordinary people who were repeatedly injured like him would have long been permanently crippled, but Wei Ting would be fine in two days.

Thinking of something, Su Xiaoxiao suddenly turned serious. “Wei Ting, you took advantage of me!”

Wei Ting frowned. “How did I take advantage of you?”

He thought Su Xiaoxiao was referring to how he carried her back.

“If you want to freeze to death on the mountain, I'll fulfill your wish next time!”

Su Xiaoxiao raised her chin and said, “You touched my hand!”

Wei Ting said, “I didn't!”

He carried her back obediently the entire time!

Not to mention that he did not have any improper thoughts, even if he did, he would not take advantage of her when she was unconscious!

Su Xiaoxiao stretched out her injured chubby hand. “Then who applied this medication? Don't tell me it's Ergou and my father!”

There was a lump on the back of her hand. The blanket was probably smeared. It was obvious that it was someone's doing.

Wei Ting fell silent.

The man in black on the roof said to himself, “Sigh, I already said that she was fine. Lord, why did you have to apply medication to her? Is this good? Do you like being extorted?”

Wei Ting mocked, “If I'm taking advantage of you by applying medication for you, how much have you taken advantage of me?”

“So you wanted to take revenge?” Su Xiaoxiao looked pained. “How can you do this?!”

Wei Ting was speechless.

Su Xiaoxiao spoke as she pleased.

She touched her chubby face and sighed melancholically. “You already have improper thoughts about me when I'm fat. When I slim down in the future and become even more beautiful, won't you be infatuated with me, be crazy about me, and die for me!”

Wei Ting was speechless.

Could he throw this girl out?

The man in black on the roof couldn't take it anymore and fell.

“Eh? What's that sound?” Su Xiaoxiao frowned.

Wei Ting glanced around and said calmly, “A rat. It has been causing trouble for a while. If it continues, I'll beat it to death.”

The man in black was speechless.

The man in black, who could afford to provoke his lord, rolled away dejectedly to a place where his lord could not hear him breathe. Naturally, he could no longer hear the lord and the little fat village girl.

Sometimes, extreme joy turned into sorrow.

Su Xiaoxiao teased Wei Ting until her stomach hurt.

As a soul in her twenties, she successfully sensed the change in her body.

She seemed to be on her period. In ancient words, it was called Gui Water.

This body's period was irregular. She would either experience it a few times a month or not at all for a few months.

Many girls had encountered similar situations during their adolescence, so she did not take it to heart.

Thinking about it carefully, this was her first period after transmigrating.

Was it so uncomfortable?

Was this to make up for not having suffered in her previous life?

“Wei Ting, please go out for a while.”

Wei Ting wanted to say that she was up to something again, but her face gradually turned pale. She did not seem to be pretending.

His eyes darkened. “What's wrong?”

Su Xiaoxiao endured the pain and said, “It's Gui Water.”

As a doctor, she did not think that there was anything to be ashamed of during a normal period.

Wei Ting did not think so.

He was stunned.

Su Xiaoxiao covered her stomach and looked at him. “Why do you have such an expression? Don't tell me you don't know what Gui Water is?”

In ancient times, there were no physiology classes, nor was there a developed Internet to share all kinds of knowledge. However, Wei Ting was the father of three children. He should have come into contact with women, right?

A woman would always be inconvenienced for a few days every month. He should understand this, right?

He looked like a virgin who had never touched a woman!

Now his ears were red too.

He looked even more like a virgin now.

Su Xiaoxiao suddenly had an evil idea.

She leaned close to his ear and smiled.

Chapter 134

Her warm breath landed on the tip of his ear, which seemed to be suddenly on fire!

Wei Ting stood up and said coldly, “Clean up!”

With that, he forgot to take his walking stick and hurriedly left!

Su Xiaoxiao burst out laughing.

What the hell?

Was the father of three children so innocent?

It was too easy to flirt with him and get him all flustered.

Su Xiaoxiao cleaned up before letting Wei Ting enter again.

At this moment, Wei Ting had already regained his usual composure and had a cold expression.

Even if Su Xiaoxiao teased him with more private and shameful words, he wouldn't lose his cool again.

Unfortunately, Su Xiaoxiao's stomach hurt so much that she doubted her life. She didn't have the strength to flirt with handsome men anymore.

Wei Ting turned off the lights, took off his clothes, and lay down straight on the bed.

The three children were originally between the two of them. They fell asleep and climbed onto Su Xiaoxiao's body. Then, they fell asleep and rolled to Su Xiaoxiao's other side.

This body's pain senses were too developed, and Su Xiaoxiao couldn't sleep from the pain.

Wei Ting listened to her uneven breathing and opened his mouth, wanting to say something but hesitated.

“Wei Ting, I'm a little cold,” Su Xiaoxiao whispered.

Wei Ting gave her a little of his blanket and covered her with it.

“Is that better?”

He asked in a low voice.

“I'm better.” Su Xiaoxiao lay on her side facing him and said in a weak nasal voice, “Wei Ting, your voice is so pleasant.”

Wei Ting's voice was naturally magnetic and obviously not the kind that had been modified with the technique of broadcast hosting.

Wei Ting had never cared about his looks and voice. As a man, he protected his family and country. He went into battle to kill enemies. He was good at everything but he did not like others praising him for things that were too superficial.

However, for the first time tonight, he did not feel disgusted.

“What was all that about on the mountain?” he asked.

“I killed a big worm,” Su Xiaoxiao said.

“Yes, I saw,” he said softly.

Wei Ting had probably guessed that she was the one who killed the big worm. After all, compared to the old relative of the Su family who wet his pants, she was more courageous.

However, it was not easy to really reach that step. If she was not careful, she might lose her life.

Wei Ting continued, “Is that person a relative of the Su family?”

Hearing Wei Ting's magnetic voice, Su Xiaoxiao was a little sleepy. “Yes, Zheng Lanxiu's man, Zheng Lanxiu… Su Yuniang's eldest sister-in-law. He's not a good person. I beat him up.”

Wei Ting's eyes darkened.

In a daze, Su Xiaoxiao felt Wei Ting's coldness and killing intent. She reached into his blanket and patted the back of his hand as if she was coaxing the three little ones.

“Don't worry… I didn't suffer a loss… I won't suffer a loss… There's no one in the village I can't beat…”

Her eyelids became heavier and her voice became softer and softer. In the end, it became even breathing.

She forgot to take her hand back and held Wei Ting's hand.

She was a little fatty and was usually not afraid of the cold, but after having her period, her hands and feet became cold.

Wei Ting's hand was warm, and her grip was comfortable.

Wei Ting's fingertips moved.

Forget it. She was unwell. Just this once!

Su Xiaoxiao wasn't feeling well so Father Su asked her to rest at home for two days and do business in a few days.

Although Father Su doted on her, there was no room for negotiation.

Su Xiaoxiao stayed at home for two days.

Cripple Feng's situation was not good.

After he was carried back to the Su family, Zheng Lanxiu immediately asked the Su family to invite a physician from the town. Su Yuniang said that Su Xiaoxiao's medical skills were brilliant, but Zheng Lanxiu didn't believe her and insisted on inviting someone from town.

Su Dalang went to Rongen Hall overnight and invited a legitimate physician.

However, Cripple Feng was too seriously injured. The big worm had bitten through his leg. The physician said that even if his leg recovered, it would not recover to its original state.

In other words, Cripple Feng would really be a cripple in the future.

Hearing this bad news, Zheng Lanxiu almost fainted on her husband's bed.

“Why did you go up the back mountain for no reason? Who needs you to chop firewood?”

Zheng Lanxiu cried until she was out of breath.

Cripple Feng was a little lecherous, but firstly, he was not ugly, and secondly, he was a sweet-talker. He knew how to coax Zheng Lanxiu after causing trouble. Of course, Zheng Lanxiu would not want him to become a cripple.

“Is there really no other way?” Su Dalang asked the doctor in the central room.

The doctor shook his head. “He's too seriously injured. It's already lucky that he survived.”

“Sister, what's wrong?” Su Dalang noticed that Su Jinniang's face was pale and couldn't help but ask, “Are you feeling unwell? Coincidentally, the physician is here. Let him take a look.”

“I'm fine.” Su Jinniang raised her hand to wipe the cold sweat off her face. “There's too much blood… I was frightened.”

The sight of Cripple Feng being carried in was really shocking. Su Dalang did not suspect anything and said to Su Jinniang, “Hurry up and go back to your room. Second Brother and I will take care of Brother Feng.”

Cripple Feng was in a worse state compared to Su Xiaoxiao. Su Xiaoxiao was asleep, but he was really unconscious.

When Su Jinniang returned to her room, her back was breaking out in cold sweat. She had never expected such a thing to happen.

“It wasn't me… He wanted to go himself… I didn't ask him to… It wasn't me…”

“What are you muttering about?”

Su Yuniang suddenly appeared at the door.

Su Jinniang was shocked!

She quickly turned around and looked at Su Yuniang in fear. “Sister…”

Su Yuniang looked at her doubtfully. “What's wrong?”

Su Jinniang clenched her sleeves and lowered her eyes. “Brother Feng became like that. I was frightened…”

Su Yuniang said, “Hmph, he's just a bastard. So what if he's crippled?”

Obviously, Su Yuniang knew very well what kind of person Cripple Feng was.

Cripple Feng did not provoke Su Yuniang because she was a ruthless person who dared to slash at him with a kitchen knife.

He did not dare to provoke Su Yuniang's sister openly. At most, he would take a few more glances at Su Jinniang and harass her when there was no one around.

Su Yuniang turned around and returned to the house. She had just stepped out of the threshold when she turned back. “The matter of Cripple Feng… has nothing to do with you, right?”

Su Jinniang's eyebrows twitched. “Sister, what nonsense are you talking about? What does his business have to do with me!”

Su Yuniang said, “It's best if it has nothing to do with you. Zheng Lanxiu is not to be trifled with. If she finds out who harmed Cripple Feng, she will definitely skin that person alive.”

Su Jinniang stopped her. “Sister, you should hurry back to the Zheng family. After what happened to Brother Feng, it's not appropriate for him to stay with us to recuperate.”

Su Yuniang frowned and looked at her. “Su Jinniang, what do you mean?”

Su Jinniang composed herself and said, “If it weren't for you, Sister, Brother Feng and Sister Lanxiu wouldn't have moved into our house. If they didn't, there wouldn't have been an attack on the mountain. In the end, everything started because of Sister. If I were Sister, I would bring the child back to the Zheng family tonight. I wouldn't give my in-laws a chance to scold me or cause trouble for my family.”

Su Yuniang's expression darkened. “Do you think I've caused trouble for the family?”

Su Jinniang swallowed and said seriously, “Isn't that so? Sister, haven't you caused enough trouble? Don't you know how bad the gossip in the village is? Also, aren't you responsible for Brother Feng becoming like this?”

Chapter 135

Su Yuniang did not expect Su Jinniang to slander her like this.

During the years when Madam Fang wasn't well, not only did she raise Sanlang, but she also took care of Jinniang.

In the end, she was an outsider in Jinniang's heart!

Su Yuniang smiled bitterly. “You're really my biological sister!”

“What's wrong, the two of you?” Madam Fang came over from the kitchen and sensed that the atmosphere between the sisters was not right. “How old are you? Why are you still arguing? We have guests at home!”

Su Yuniang returned to the room coldly.

Su Jinniang also entered her room in a fit of pique.

Madam Fang frowned. “These two children!”

Crippled Feng's injuries were more severe than he had imagined. Along the way, he suffered superficial injuries. They looked serious, but they were not serious. What was concerning was the leg that had been bitten by the big worm.

After careful treatment by the physician, not only did he not improve, but his leg also became red and swollen. He had also been in a daze.

If this continued, Cripple Feng would probably lose his leg.

Zheng Lanxiu did not dare to continue wasting her time in the Su family. She brought Cripple Feng back to Shallow Water Village and asked someone to invite a more experienced physician from Rongen Hall.

Su Xiaoxiao rested at home for two days and completely recovered. She could continue to set up a stall tomorrow!

“Sister, are you really alright?” Su Ergou asked.

“Why? You don't want to set up a stall anymore?”

“Yes, but your health is the most important. I can wait a few days.”

Su Xiaoxiao rubbed his head in amusement. “That's right. It's been hard on our hardworking Ergou.”

The three little ones were brushing the fur of the foal in the backyard. When they saw Uncle Ergou's head being rubbed, they abandoned the foal in unison and ran over, stretching their little heads in front of Su Xiaoxiao.

It meant that they wanted their heads to be patted too!

“Ha!” Su Xiaoxiao was amused and touched their heads.

“Excuse me, is this Miss Su's house?”

An acquaintance came to the door and the three children ran over.

Manager Sun stood outside the open door. Just as he was hesitating if he should knock, he saw three round heads sticking out.

Dahu's was at the top, and Xiaohu's was at the bottom.

Manager Sun looked at the three identical and cute faces and his face blindness acted up!

“Who are you?” Dahu asked warily.

He had never seen an unfamiliar face in the village.

“I… ah…”

“Why are you looking for Mother?” Erhu sized him up.

“Are you a bad person? Bad people don't enter!” Xiaohu said seriously.

Manager Sun was dumbfounded.

Su Xiaoxiao said softly, “Dahu, Erhu, Xiaohu, Manager Sun is a guest.”

The three of them nodded sensibly. “Oh.”

The three little ones worked together and pulled open the unlatched wooden door. They said politely, “Please come in.”

As Manager Sun entered, his eyes were glued to the three little fellows.

It couldn't be helped. This was the first time he had seen such cute children in his life.

“Triplets?” he asked Su Xiaoxiao.

Su Xiaoxiao gestured for him to sit down. “Yes.”

Manager Sun sat down in a daze and looked at the little kids who were walking around Su Xiaoxiao. Then, he looked at Su Xiaoxiao and asked in a low voice, “What's going on?”

Su Xiaoxiao said calmly, “Oh, my sons.”

Manager Sun was speechless.

Su Xiaoxiao had always used the identity of Miss Su when she was doing business outside. Manager Sun thought that she was a woman who had never married. Who knew that she already had three children?

Why did he not believe it?

“Mother, it's hot.” Xiaohu grabbed his collar.

Su Xiaoxiao touched his back. He was indeed sweating. She took a piece of dry cloth that was draped over the back of the chair and placed it on his back.

Her movements were extremely skilled. It was obvious that she was used to it.

Manager Sun fell silent.

“Go play,” Su Xiaoxiao said to the three of them and they ran off to brush the foal's fur.

Su Ergou went to the kitchen to bring a pot of hot water. Su Xiaoxiao made tea and poured a cup for Manager Sun. She went straight to the point. “Do you have something to discuss with me?”

She paid off the Manager Sun's debt at the gambling den. Before he gathered enough money for Su Xiaoxiao, Manager Sun had to “sell himself to pay off the debt”.

Of course, he could forget about selling his fat body. But he could still use his ability.

Speaking of serious matters, Manager Sun temporarily put aside his curiosity about Su Xiaoxiao.

He said, “I've been to many places these past few days and have indeed accepted a good business. It's also a banquet snack business. That family is not inferior to the Qi family, but it's a little far away. It's in the prefecture city.”

“The prefecture city?” Su Xiaoxiao muttered.

“That's right.” Manager Sun nodded.

Su Ergou said, “It will take ten days to half a month to go to the prefecture city. Our snacks will be ruined if we transport them over!”

Manager Sun said, “Ah, it won't take that long. We'll take the carriage and set off at dawn. We'll arrive on the second day at the latest. It will take half a month if you walk!”

Shen Chuan had also said that they could reach the prefecture city in a day.

Manager Sun continued, “However, Little Brother Su's concerns are not wrong. The snacks will not taste fresh anymore if they are left out for too long. If we send them over after we're done, it will have to be done overnight. Ordinary commoners might not be able to tell the difference, but the guests at the banquet are used to having delicacies. They can taste the difference.”

Su Xiaoxiao asked, “So you mean… ”

Manager Sun smiled and said, “If you want to take this business, we have to go to the prefecture city to do it on the spot. The price will definitely satisfy you. It's higher than what the Qi family paid. I wonder… if you're willing to take this long trip.”

Ordinary girls would not leave their houses. Due to her livelihood, she had no choice but to do business on the streets. However, the town was not far after all. It was really a long trip to the prefecture city.

From Manager Sun's standpoint, he naturally hoped that Su Xiaoxiao would agree. If she earned more money, he would have dividends and could repay her sooner.

However, he wouldn't force Su Xiaoxiao. Everything depended on her wishes.

“If you can't make up your mind, there's no harm in thinking about it for a night. That madam is a guest of the Qi family. She tasted your snacks at Old Madam Qi's birthday banquet and was very impressed. She will only leave for the prefecture city tomorrow. I'll come back tomorrow morning.”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “No need. I'll go.”

Manager Sun said in a daze, “Are you really not going to think about it?”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “What's there to consider? I've never left Apricot Flower Town in my life. With this deal, I can earn money and go to the prefecture city to take a look. Why not?”

If not for the limited money she had, she would have gone to the capital!

“Ah…” Manager Sun was not especially surprised.

It was as if he had subconsciously decided that she was not an ordinary woman. She dared to risk her life, and was brave to barge in when the occasion called for it. She was fearless.

Unfortunately, she was not a man. Otherwise, she would definitely have made shocking achievements.

After Father Su and Wei Ting returned from the Li family's land, Su Xiaoxiao told them about going to the prefecture city to do business.

“Do you really want to go?” Father Su asked.

Su Xiaoxiao nodded.

Su Ergou was worried… Uh, his father was worried too, but he respected his daughter's opinion.

He would grow old one day and not be able to accompany them for the rest of their lives. He couldn't expect them to soar on their own while cutting off their wings.

“Just you and Ergou?” Father Su asked.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Manager Sun is going too. He's familiar with the city.”

Father Su thought for a moment. “Bring Liu Ping along.”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “There's no need, Dad. Liu Ping has something to do at home.”

Business in town had already stopped for two days. If they continued to rest, their business would lose momentum.

Father Su originally planned to say that she should bring someone to protect herself, but when he thought about how Liu Ping could not fight as well as his daughter and Ergou, he swallowed his words.

“When are you leaving?”

Chapter 136

“Tomorrow morning,” Su Xiaoxiao said.

“So soon.” Father Su couldn't bear for her to leave.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “I'll leave early and return as soon as I can. Oh, right, I left Liu Ping at home because business in town can't stop forever.”

She was not feeling well and had already rested for two days. As for her and Su Ergou going to the city, it would take at least three days.

If they did not set up their stall for five days, it could result in dissatisfaction and loss of customers.

“Sure, let's do it!” Father Su did not think that this had anything to do with him for the time being.

“Liu Ping is in charge of running errands. Sister Wu makes pancakes.”

Su Xiaoxiao hadn't been idle for the past two days. Although she didn't go to town to do business, she taught Little Wu how to make pancakes. Little Wu was already very capable. In addition, she had been following her for a period of time and was very familiar with the process of making pancakes. Other than failing at the egg yolk pastry, she basically knew how to make wife cakes and chestnut cakes.

In any case, her pastry was better than Jin Ji's.

Su Xiaoxiao had given Jin Ji a recipe, but there was actually a lot to learn about making pancakes delicious. Not to mention the heat at each stage, even the water quality needed for each snack was different.

A slight change could result in a thousand miles of difference.

Of course, the master of Jin Ji could study it, but didn't it take time? How could it be faster than her teaching it step by step?

Little Wu made another pot of wife cakes and brought it over for the family to taste.

After Su Xiaoxiao tasted it carefully, she approved the ones with green bean filling, red bean filling, and chestnut filling. The dried plum vegetables were slightly inferior and did not meet her standards.

However, it was actually not bad. Su Xiaoxiao's requirements were too high.

But on second thought, if not for her high standards and requirements at all times, how could she reach the peak of her business?

Excellent was a habit.

Liu Ping also came to try, but his culinary skills… were really inferior to Little Wu's.

Little Wu had been the daughter-in-law of the Liu family for so many years. She had cooked every meal. She had finally mastered it.

Su Xiaoxiao continued, “These few pancakes will be sold for the next few days. Dad, you and Wei Ting have to help Sister Wu or take care of her children.”

Little Wu would definitely not be able to handle it alone.

In addition, she had also instructed Liu Ping to take as few orders as possible.

“Got it,” Father Su agreed.

“There's more.” What followed was the main point. Su Xiaoxiao looked at her father solemnly. “Dad, you have to sell the pancakes!”

Father Su was speechless.

“Su Ji's stall, banner sign, tray, snack box, bamboo leaf, paper bag…”

In the central room, Su Xiaoxiao counted the items needed to set up the stall one by one.

“Have you remembered everything I said? If you really can't remember, ask Liu Ping. He's familiar with it.”

She could only pause the braised meat business for a few days. Otherwise, Little Wu would definitely be exhausted.

Fortunately, there were no competitors when it came to braised meat. It was sold at Luo Dazhuang's pork stall, so business would not be affected.

“Daya, I can do the braised meat.”

Little Wu came over from the kitchen.

Making braised meat was easier than making snacks because Su Xiaoxiao had made the sauce. She only needed to put the meat in and cook it with some salt.

Su Xiaoxiao asked, “Can you handle it? Don't count on my father and Wei Ting. They might not be able to help much.”

Due to their bad work records, Su Xiaoxiao didn't dare to have high hopes for them.

Little Wu whispered, “I can do it.”

Really, she could do it.

She had already suffered in the Liu family. This work was really nothing. Moreover, this was something she liked to do and she did not feel tired doing it.

This was probably… in line with what Daya often said about passion?

Little Wu's eyes lit up. She really wanted to do something for Daya.

“It's just that…” She lowered her head and pinched the corner of her shirt nervously. “I wonder if it can be done well? Will it ruin your reputation?”

Thinking of this, Little Wu regretted speaking quickly and taking responsibility.

What if she ruined the business?

Su Xiaoxiao was originally worried that she would be tired. Now that she saw that Little Wu was afraid of dragging her down, she couldn't help but smile. “You can do it. You have to believe in yourself and my taste.”

Little Wu mustered her courage and looked into Su Xiaoxiao's eyes. “Can… can I really… do it?”

Come and read on our website wuxia worldsite. Thanks

She was going to hold the fort alone.

Ever since she was young, she had always been told was that a woman was the most useless. They helped their husbands and raised their children, worked hard, and at thirty years old became a mother-in-law.

They never seemed to be able to do things like men.

But Daya was different.

Su Xiaoxiao didn't want to give her too much pressure. “Don't scare yourself before you start. If I'm not afraid, what are you afraid of? I won't blame you if it really fails. Just do it boldly!”

Little Wu took a deep breath and nodded nervously. “Okay.”

“That's right!” Su Xiaoxiao smiled. “Then, I'll leave the braised meat business to you. Do your best and don't tire yourself out.”

After giving her instructions, Su Xiaoxiao returned to her small east room and began to pack her luggage for the prefecture capital.

She would only be there for a few days, so there was no need to tidy up too much.

She pulled open the cabinet door and hummed a tune as she took out the clothes and bag.

Wei Ting entered the room and glanced at her indifferently. He said, “Why are you so happy to go to the prefecture capital?”

Su Xiaoxiao folded her clothes and shook her head. “Yes, I'm just happy about it!”

“Hmph.” Wei Ting snorted coldly.

Su Xiaoxiao looked at him with a faint smile. “Are you so angry because you can't bear to part with me?”

Wei Ting did not answer. Instead, he sat down on the chair expressionlessly and picked up a stack of calligraphy on the table. “Your handwriting is so ugly!”

Su Xiaoxiao pushed the blame away. “Ergou wrote it!”

“Sister! I can't find my pants!”

Su Ergou was also packing.

“Coming!” Su Xiaoxiao put down the clothes she was folding and went to the west room. She found it immediately. “Isn't it here?”

“Oh.” Su Ergou scratched his head.

When Su Xiaoxiao returned to the room, she clearly felt that her bag had been moved.

She flipped through it and found a dagger at the bottom. It was heavy and the scabbard was thick. There was no flirtatious jewelry decoration. It was simple and textured.

She gently pulled out the dagger. A cold light flashed and one could feel its sharpness and killing intent.

Su Xiaoxiao looked at Wei Ting, who was sitting at the side checking her calligraphy. She tilted her head and asked, “Did you put it there?”

Wei Ting said coldly, “Give it back to me if you don't want it.”

Su Xiaoxiao hurriedly stuffed the dagger into her bag. “Yes! Who said I didn't want it!”

The next time she went up the mountain and encountered a big worm, she could kill it with a slash. She no longer needed to fight to the death like last time.

Was this guy worried that she would encounter any danger on the way?

Human cognition and thinking were often related to one's personal experience. It was much safer to go to the city on the official road than to enter the deep mountains and old forests. Ordinary people would only be worried that they would be exhausted from the journey and not adapt to the environment. The first thing Wei Ting thought of was to give her a way to protect herself.

Had he grown up in an extremely unsafe environment? Or that he had experienced too many dangers?

Su Xiaoxiao walked over and sat down beside him, gently holding his hand.

Wei Ting frowned. “What are you doing now?”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “I'm comforting you.”

The Wei Ting was speechless.

“Wei Ting, I'll return the token to you when I return from the city.”

Su Xiaoxiao decided that after she was done with this business, she would think of a way to enter the pharmacy again and bring the token out!

Wei Ting was stunned for a moment before saying calmly, “Up to you.”

At night, Su Xiaoxiao went to Su Yuniang's house again to take Su Yuniang's pulse.

She was still a little weak. Her spleen and stomach were not as good, so she could not over-nourish them. She also had to nurse her child, so she had to pay attention to her diet.

“Did the silver ear and sweet plum work?” Su Xiaoxiao retracted her hand and asked.

“Yes,” Su Yuniang replied vaguely, unwilling to admit that she finally understood what she meant by “don't believe any of your farts.”

Su Xiaoxiao reminded her, “I'll go to the city tomorrow and won't be back for three days. If you feel uncomfortable, get someone to invite Physician Fu over from Spring Willow Lane in town. He is much more reliable than the physicians of Rongen Hall.”

Su Yuniang asked, “Are you going to remind Little Madam Zhao like this later?”

“Why do I need to remind her?” Su Xiaoxiao was confused. Madam Zhao's body was not empty.

Su Yuniang was very satisfied.

Chapter 137

After coming out of Su Yuniang's room, Su Xiaoxiao bumped into Old Master Su and Su Jinniang.

Old Master Su was checking the accounts in the central room while Su Jinniang made tea for him.

Old Master Su had a lot of fields under his name. His family could not finish planting them, so he rented a portion out. The yearly rent was ten to twenty taels.

Su Xiaoxiao didn't deliberately ask where these lands came from, but she had heard from the villagers.

It was 30 years ago that Old Master Su's father used his ancestral jade pendant to exchange for food to help the villagers. In return, the village agreed to give the Su family a large piece of land.

Not to mention, the Su family had bought two acres of land from Old Master Su.

When the two of them saw Su Xiaoxiao, they revealed… disdain.

It had not been a day or two since the Old Master Su's family looked down on her family. Su Xiaoxiao naturally wouldn't rush to receive their cold shoulders.

Su Xiaoxiao didn't greet the two of them. To be precise, she didn't even look at them.

Old Master Su frowned.

At this moment, Su Yuniang's father and eldest brother returned from Shallow Water Village. They probably had something to tell Old Master Su, but because Fatty Su was present, it was not appropriate for them to speak.

“Collect the accounts.” After instructing Su Jinniang, Old Master Su walked out with a serious expression.

Only Su Xiaoxiao and Su Jinniang were left in the central room.

Su Jinniang obediently put away the account books on the table. She had been learning from her grandfather these days and actually had some thoughts.

Since Fatty Su could read, and she was smarter than her, she would definitely be capable of being literate too!

The truth was that she had been “learning” from her grandfather for more than half a month and her progress was not smooth.

Old Master Su would not spend time and energy teaching a granddaughter to read. This was one of the reasons. The second reason was that Su Jinniang did not have the talent to learn.

However, Su Jinniang would not admit that she was stupid. She only hated herself for not marrying a good husband. Otherwise, she would have recognized more words than Fat Lass Su!

“Don't come to my house for no reason!” Su Jinniang said coldly.

Su Xiaoxiao said with a faint smile, “You care quite a lot. First, you care about my clothes, and now you care where I go. What do you think you are to me?”

Su Jinniang said coldly, “This is my house. You're not welcome here!”

Su Xiaoxiao chuckled. “What's wrong with me coming?”

Su Jinniang used to like Fat Lass Su being around her because she was fat and ugly. She imitated her clothes and walked, making Su Jinniang look like a fairy.

It was different now.

Fatty Su had become beautiful and stopped learning to dress like her. On the other hand, many people in the village began to imitate Fatty Su's hairstyle and jewelry.

If Fatty Su tied her hair into a bun, they would do the same.

If Fatty Su wore two braids, so did they.

In the past, when she went to the well to get water, everyone was talking about her clothes and jewelry. Now, it became — “Daya's clothes are so beautiful! Where did you buy the materials? I'll go to town to buy them another day!”

Although she was unwilling to admit it, Su Jinniang did feel a huge sense of crisis. As long as she approached Fatty Su, Su Jinniang would be jealous for no reason.

“The account book is upside down,” Su Xiaoxiao reminded kindly.

Su Jinniang couldn't read and didn't notice that some of the accounts were inverted.

“I know! You don't have to remind me!” Su Jinniang blushed and turned one of the ledgers over.

Su Xiaoxiao shook her head. “Not this one.”

Since Su Xiaoxiao had OCD, she couldn't stand it!

“The third book!”

Su Jinniang slammed the account book on the table and glared at Su Xiaoxiao. “So what if you know a few words? Did you come specially to show off in front of me?”

Su Xiaoxiao was confused. “Su Jinniang, are you crazy? Showing off to you? Would I feel a sense of accomplishment?”

Su Jinniang felt that she had been underestimated, and her pride suffered a huge blow.

In her anger, she blurted out, “As someone who had been defiled by a wild man, what right do you have to compare to me?”

Come and read on our website wuxia worldsite. Thanks

“Who's competing with you…”

Wait.

Defiled?

Wild man?

Su Xiaoxiao's gaze landed on Su Jinniang's face.

Su Jinniang realized that she had let it slip and quickly picked up the account book and walked back.

Su Xiaoxiao knocked on the table indifferently. “Su Jinniang, stop right there and make yourself clear. What do you mean by wild man? What's this about defiling?”

She only had one man, and that was Wei Ting.

She and Wei Ting were husband and wife in name. Even if they really slept together, it would be called matrimonial sex and boudoir pleasure. It was only right and proper. There was no taint.

Therefore, Su Jinniang was not referring to Wei Ting.

Su Xiaoxiao looked at Su Jinniang deeply. “Did you do it?”

Su Jinniang froze.

She didn't turn around. She carried the ledger and hurried to the backyard.

Even a fool could tell that something was wrong with her guilty look.

Su Xiaoxiao knew it. She was digging for wild vegetables. How did she meet Cripple Feng?

In addition, Cripple Feng had gone up the mountain empty-handed. He would not stroll there unless his intent was to stop her.

However, she had always assumed that Cripple Feng had followed her and never thought of Su Jinniang.

That's right. Before going up the mountain, she had met Su Jinniang behind the kitchen of the Su family. Su Jinniang knew where she was.

Su Xiaoxiao followed.

Su Jinniang heard footsteps behind her and turned around in a panic. “Fatty Su, what are you doing!”

Su Xiaoxiao looked at her indifferently. “It was you.”

Su Jinniang's eyes flashed. “What do you mean? I don't understand what you're saying!”

Su Xiaoxiao mocked, “You don't understand. Are your ears or your brain not working well? Alright, I'll help you wash up.”

“You… ah!”

Before Su Jinniang could finish, Su Xiaoxiao grabbed the back of her neck and pressed her into the water tank in front of her!

With a loud splash, Su Jinniang was pressed into the cold water like a chick! Her arm trembled, and the account books in her arms fell to the ground!

She struggled hard, but her strength was nothing to Su Xiaoxiao!

Su Xiaoxiao lifted her head. “Su Jinniang, I gave you basic respect. Do you think I'm afraid of you?”

This was the first time Su Jinniang had truly experienced the power of the Su family's little bully. She really did not understand how Su Yuniang dared to fight with such a bully girl when she was young. She was terrified. She didn't know if it was from the cold or fear, but she was trembling.

“Grandpa… Dad… ”

She let out a cry for help like a pig being slaughtered.

“Huh.”

Su Xiaoxiao pressed her into the water again and Su Jinniang almost drowned in the water tank!

There was no pity in Su Xiaoxiao's eyes.

It was fine if she ran to Wei Ting to make her presence known. It was just a woman's flirtation and Wei Ting would not fall for that.

But she actually baited Cripple Feng to attack her!

Cripple Feng was a relative of the Su family. How could Su Jinniang not know what he was like?

She was not afraid of Cripple Feng, and could defeat him even if ten more came. However, she hated Su Jinniang's vicious thoughts!

“Fatty Su, what are you doing? Let go of my sister!”

Chapter 138

Su Dalang heard the commotion and came over but Su Xiaoxiao ignored him.

She continued to press Su Jinniang! She would press her to death!

“Fatty Su!” Su Dalang was furious. He picked up the stick on the ground and hit Su Xiaoxiao.

How could Su Xiaoxiao let him hit her?

With a wave of her chubby arm, she easily caught his stick.

Su Dalang was stunned.

Su Xiaoxiao said calmly, “Move aside, or I'll teach you a lesson too.”

Su Dalang naturally wouldn't give in, but he couldn't snatch the stick back. He raised his leg to kick Su Xiaoxiao…

Su Xiaoxiao was faster than him and kicked him to the ground!

At this moment, Old Master Su, his son, Su Can, and his second grandson, Su Erlang, also arrived.

“Dalang!” Su Can was a coward. He did not fight with Fatty Su immediately. Instead, he pounced over and helped his son up.

The 17-year-old Su Erlang's expression was also very ugly. “Eldest Brother! Second Sister!”

Su Jinniang was still pressed into the water tank and drinking cold water.

Old Master Su's expression darkened. “Su Daya! Stop!”

Su Xiaoxiao let go easily and Su Jinniang slipped out of the water tank.

However, in less than a second, she pressed Su Jinniang down again!

Everyone's expression changed!

Old Master Su clenched his fists. “Fatty Su!”

Su Dalang was the only one in the Su family who had guts. Su Erlang wanted to rush over a few times, but he was frightened by Su Xiaoxiao's stick.

When she was almost done with Su Jinniang, Su Xiaoxiao fished her out and threw her to the ground as if she was throwing a useless sack.

“Fatty Su, what's wrong with you? How did my second sister provoke you!” Su Erlang scolded.

Su Xiaoxiao said indifferently, “Why don't you ask Su Jinniang?”

Old Master Su looked at Su Jinniang, who was lying on the ground and breathing heavily. He asked, “What did you do?”

Su Jinniang's face was pale as she said weakly, “Grandpa, I didn't… I… I didn't do anything…”

Su Xiaoxiao chuckled. “We'll know if she did or not when Cripple Feng wakes up.”

Cripple Feng? Old Master Su frowned. What did this have to do with Crippled Feng?

Su Xiaoxiao looked at Su Can and Su Dalang who lowered their heads.

Su Xiaoxiao sneered. “Yo, haven't you already found out the truth? Why? You don't dare to say it? Do you want me to say it for you?”

Old Master Su followed Su Xiaoxiao's gaze and looked at his son and eldest grandson. “What's going on?”

The two of them did not dare to make a sound.

They had just returned from Shallow Water Village when Cripple Feng woke up. At that time, Zheng Lanxiu cried and asked him why he went up the mountain. Cripple Feng stammered and said that he had heard from Su Jinniang during dinner that Fatty Su had gone up the mountain alone. He had evil intentions and secretly followed her…

Unexpectedly, he was taught a lesson by Fatty Su before he could even touch a finger of hers.

Later on, he and Fatty Su encountered a big worm.

It was Fatty Su who killed the big worm.

Otherwise, he would probably have died without a corpse.

He couldn't remember how he got down the mountain. Perhaps Fatty Su had saved him…

When the father and son heard this, they no longer dared to stay in Shallow Water Village.

They immediately rushed home to discuss this with Old Master Su. Unfortunately, before they could say anything, Su Xiaoxiao had already beaten Su Jinniang up.

There were two families in the village that one could not afford to offend. One was the Old Master Su's family, and the other was the Su family.

Old Master Su's reputation was too strong. If one offended him, he would be despised by the entire village.

As for the other Su family, their reputation was too bad. No matter what, they would blackmail you, cheat you, and beat you to death! In short, they were unreasonable!

On the way back, the father and son decided not to let Fat Lass Su know the truth. Otherwise, it would be difficult to clean up the mess.

Su Dalang gritted his teeth and said, “My sister didn't do it on purpose! She only said that you went up the mountain, but she didn't ask Cripple Feng to look for you! Cripple Feng went himself! Besides, aren't you fine?”

At his words, Su Xiaoxiao slapped Su Jinniang, who had finally stood up with the support of the water tank, to the ground.

Su Xiaoxiao pinched her wrist and said calmly, “Oh, my hand didn't do it on purpose. It hit her of its own volition. Besides, isn't Su Jinniang still alive?”

Everyone was speechless.

In the past, the three tyrants of the Su family rarely provoked them and rarely extorted money from them unless they took the initiative to provoke them. However, other than Su Yuniang who had fought with Fatty Su, the others had always ignored the three tyrants of the Su family and treated the Su family as a plague.

Everyone looked at this little plague with ashen faces.

Su Erlang said angrily, “Fatty Su! Don't go too far! Go to the village and ask around. What kind of family is our Su family? Aren't you afraid that you won't be able to stay in the village if you cause trouble at our house?!”

The entire village owed the Su family a favor. Whoever went against the Su family would be going against the entire Apricot Flower Village!

Su Xiaoxiao said coldly, “Stop using the villagers to pressure me! The villagers spoil your Su family, but I won't!”

“You!” Su Erlang fell back in anger.

Su Xiaoxiao didn't give him a chance to refute. “What about me? When your Su family sold the jade pendant to help the villagers, our Su family hadn't moved over yet! Our family doesn't owe anyone a favor! We mind our own business! But since Su Jinniang made things difficult for me, don't blame me for teaching her a lesson!”

Su Dalang gritted his teeth and said, “I already said that my sister didn't do it on purpose!”

Su Xiaoxiao said with a strong aura, “She knows if she did it on purpose!”

“Enough! Shut up!” Old Master Su said sternly.

His deep gaze swept across the disheveled Su Jinniang and looked at Fatty Su, who actually dared to fight the entire Su family alone.

It was not a surprise.

Unsurprisingly, Fatty Su was an unreasonable bully. Unexpectedly, Fatty Su gave him a strange feeling.

He asked, “Su Daya, regardless of whether Jinniang did it on purpose or not, you've already taught her a lesson. What else do you want?”

Su Xiaoxiao sneered. “Heh, what a coincidence. What do you mean by whether it was intentional or not? That's true. You have to protect your biological granddaughter. Otherwise, once you admit it, won't it show that you didn't teach your granddaughter well?”

Listen, she scolded Old Master Su with just a few words.

Old Master Su's gaze was cold.

The entire family was furious. Their old man was respected and had never been ridiculed like this.

Fatty Su was too much!

Su Xiaoxiao said calmly, “I'll stop here today. After all, I really didn't lose anything, so I'll only teach her a small lesson.”

Old Master Su's family was about to go crazy. How could this be a small lesson after Su Jinniang was ravaged to this extent?

“However.” Su Xiaoxiao looked coldly at the trembling Su Jinniang. “It's best if she doesn't appear in front of me in the future. Otherwise, I'll beat her up every time I see her!”

Chapter 139

Su Xiaoxiao left arrogantly.

Su Erlang said angrily, “Grandpa! Fat Lass Su is too much!”

Old Master Su said coldly, “You should think about how to deal with the Zheng family when they come later!”

Su Erlang was stunned.

How could he have forgotten that in this incident, Cripple Feng had almost lost half his life!

If Fatty Su had not bothered about Cripple Feng and let him be bitten to death by the big worm or let him freeze to death on the mountain, they might have said that Fatty Su had beaten him up and thrown him to the big worm…

They could push the responsibility to Fatty Su!

However, Fatty Su saved Cripple Feng twice…

What would Zheng Lanxiu think?

She would only hate Su Jinniang! She would hate her to death!

Su Jinniang was helped back to her room by her two brothers. Madam Fang had gone to the fields and was not at home.

Su Yuniang walked in with a cold expression.

“Little brother, go out first.”

She said to Su Sanlang behind her.

Su Sanlang went out obediently.

Su Jinniang sat at the head of the bed in a sorry state and glared at Su Yuniang with red eyes. “Are you satisfied with what you did to me? How good would it be if you didn't return to our parents' house! Why did you summon Cripple Feng? Why did you summon Fatty Su? You could clearly have stopped Fatty Su… but you kept hiding in the room… You just watched as I was bullied by her… ”

Without letting her continue, Su Yuniang raised her hand and slapped her!

Su Jinniang was stunned.

Su Yuniang said word by word, “Su Jinniang, if there's a next time, I'll shave your head and send you to a nunnery.”

Su Jinniang was stunned.

Su Xiaoxiao returned home.

Seeing that she was sweating, Father Su asked, “What's wrong?”

Su Xiaoxiao hesitated for a moment before deciding to tell the truth. “I've fallen out with the Su family.”

This was a big deal. It was much more serious than falling out with the Chen family. After all, Old Master Su's family was too well-regarded village. If they were not careful, they might really be chased out by the entire village.

Father Su's eyes were filled with fear. “Why did you fall out with them? There are so many people in the Su family! You didn't suffer a loss, right!”

“No,” Su Xiaoxiao said. “I beat them up.”

Father Su was relieved in a second and waved his hand. “Oh, that's fine.”

Su Xiaoxiao was dumbfounded.

Father Su told her not to worry about the village and leave everything to him. She could go to the city to do business in peace.

Su Xiaoxiao agreed. “Okay.”

The three little ones also knew that Su Xiaoxiao was about to go on a long trip. They came over with small pillows to sleep with her.

This time, the rotation system clearly failed. Everyone wanted to sleep next to their mother.

Dahu and Erhu occupied Su Xiaoxiao's left and right.

Xiaohu couldn't beat his two brothers and gave up. He threw away his small pillow and placed his head on Su Xiaoxiao's.

Su Xiaoxiao laughed.

After sleeping like this for a night, wouldn't she obtain a little ice sculpture the next day?

Su Xiaoxiao carried Xiaohu into the blanket and placed him with Erhu.

Erhu had the gentlest personality among the three children. Xiaohu and Dahu knew how to fight, but Xiaohu could never win.

The three little fellows fell asleep.

“Mom.”

Alright, there was a fish that escaped the net.

It was Erhu.

Erhu moved closer to her and searched his pocket. He took out a small thing and handed it to Su Xiaoxiao.

Su Xiaoxiao took it. “What is this?”

“A talisman,” Erhu said. “Granny Du gave it to me.”

Madam Du was a witch from the neighboring village.

The three little ones would sometimes follow Niudan and the others to her house to play.

“Why did she give you this?” Su Xiaoxiao asked.

Erhu thought for a moment and told her the truth. “I exchanged a pancake for it.”

Come and read on our website wuxia worldsite. Thanks

Su Xiaoxiao continued, “Why did Erhu do the exchange?”

Erhu fell silent.

This was called a safety talisman, but it was actually a small pouch sewn with rags.

Granny Du's “talismans” were also divided into levels. The lowest-grade safety talisman contained plant ash, and cost one copper coin each.

The one that Granny Du gave Er Hu was probably the highest grade. It contained a genuine copper coin.

The Host had once bought an identical one from Granny Du and spent half a tael of silver!

That witch was a big scam artist!

Although Erhu had exchanged for it with a pancake, their family could sell any pancake for ten copper coins. Granny Du was definitely making a profit.

Actually, Su Xiaoxiao could roughly guess why Er Hu gave this to her.

She touched his little head. “Erhu, the witch is lying. I don't need this thing to come back safely.”

The child's feelings were precious, but there were some principles she had to teach the child to prevent him from continuing to be tricked by the witch in the future.

Erhu paused and said, “Pancake. Expired.”

Su Xiaoxiao was dumbfounded.

Before dawn the next day, Manager Sun arrived in the hired carriage. The coachman was the original servant of Jin Ji and insisted on leaving with Manager Sun.

Manager Sun originally didn't agree since he couldn't even protect himself. After he collaborated with Su Xiaoxiao, he called the shop assistant over.

The shop assistant was called Xiaowu.

“I can go to town myself,” Su Xiaoxiao said.

Manager Sun said in amusement, “Creditor, boss, how can I let you go yourself? Then I would've been a manager for nothing!”

Putting aside their past grudges, Manager Sun and Su Xiaoxiao were quite compatible in business—the two of them were very bold and went all out in their pursuit.

“Is Little Brother Su awake?” he asked.

“He's awake. He's squatting in the latrine pit,” Su Xiaoxiao said. “You can call him Ergou.”

“Okay,” Manager Sun agreed and said to Xiaowu, “Take Su…”

He paused. “Should I call you Miss Su or Young Madam Su?”

Su Xiaoxiao glanced at him. “What do you think?”

“Miss… Su.”

He still had the ability to read people's expressions.

There was not much luggage on this trip to the city, mainly some ingredients for snacks.

Manager Sun helped to move the ingredients into the carriage. “I went to see Madam Wang again last night. Madam Wang means to provide us with a kitchen. Do you think we should use the kitchen in her residence, or should we find another small courtyard outside?”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Let's use her kitchen. It's convenient.”

Manager Sun said, “Aren't you afraid of others stealing your recipes?”

Su Xiaoxiao said calmly, “If they can steal it, let them.”

Manager Sun pondered for a moment. “That's true.”

The chefs hired by Jin Ji from the capital had to spend a lot of effort to figure it out. How could one learn all the skills after watching it once?

Before leaving for the prefecture city, Su Xiaoxiao went to Physician Fu's house.

“Is there anything you want me to bring? For example, herbs?” she asked Physician Fu.

Physician Fu didn't need to buy anything from the city. However, after Aunt Fu found out that Su Xiaoxiao was going to the city, she asked her son to give Su Xiaoxiao a jar of health pills and have her bring it to an old friend in Qingyun Temple.

With that personality of hers, it was rare that Aunt Fu actually had old friends.

At seven o'clock, the group got into the carriage and traveled for the entire day. At night, they successfully arrived at the prefecture city.

The bustling atmosphere assaulted their faces. The streets were filled with traffic and were much livelier than Apricot Flower Town.

“Sister! There are so many people!” Su Ergou lifted the curtain and looked at the endless crowd. He was so shocked that he could not close his mouth.

Manager Sun smiled and said, “This is not even the most prosperous street in the prefecture city. On the way to the Wang family later, we will pass by Jade Cloud Street. There are even more people there!”

Compared to Su Ergou, Su Xiaoxiao was much calmer.

He asked, “Miss Su, have you… been to the prefecture city before?”

It didn't look like it was her first time entering the city!

“I've never been here,” Su Xiaoxiao said.

“Ah! Sister! What a big candied hawthorn!”

Su Ergou wished he could stick his head out to take a look.

Manager Sun looked at Su Xiaoxiao and then at Su Ergou. He thought to himself that Su Ergou's reaction seemed more like an inexperienced villager. Su Xiaoxiao, on the other, looked as though she had even been to the capital.

If possible, Su Xiaoxiao really wanted to go to the capital.

Unfortunately, it was too difficult to get a travel pass to the capital. There was no scholar at home who could enter the capital to take the examination.

Chapter 140

Su Xiaoxiao admired the night view of the prefecture while thinking about her plan to enter the capital.

…She had just entered the prefecture capital and already wanted to enter the capital. One had to say that Su Xiaoxiao was ambitious.

Su Ergou suddenly shouted, “Sister! Fire! What a big fire!”

Manager Sun jumped in fright. He glanced at them and relaxed. He smiled and said to the siblings: “It's a vaudeville troupe. Our town also has one.”

Su Ergou said, “How can the people in town be as powerful as this? Wa, wa, wa! Fire again!”

The pedestrians by the road were shocked by his voice and turned around to see where the fool came from.

Su Ergou met a few malicious gazes and said fiercely, “What are you looking at!”

Everyone's lips twitched as they walked away.

“Sister, I want to sit outside!” Su Ergou said.

“Go.” Su Xiaoxiao said.

Su Ergou lifted the curtain and sat down beside Xiaowu.

“Where are we staying?” Su Xiaoxiao asked.

Manager Sun said: “There is a Yuelai Inn near the Wang Family, let's stay there.”

Su Xiaoxiao asked, “How long will it take?”

Shopkeeper Sun looked outside and said: “After going down this street, we will make a right and go through an alley. About fifteen minutes.”

Su Xiaoxiao nodded and asked, “What kind of family is the Wang family?”

Shopkeeper Sun replied: “They started by selling tea leaves. Later on, they started a silk business. Right now, the largest cloth shop and dye shop in the prefectural city are owned by the Wang Family. I heard that they are preparing to open a cloth shop in the provincial city. The Madam Wang who invited us to make the pastries for the weekly banquet is the wife of the third branch. She is a very kind person, and the price she offers is also good.”

“The banquet is tomorrow?”

“Yes.”

Su Xiaoxiao was puzzled. “So fast… Didn't they prepare a chef at first?”

Shopkeeper Sun laughed: “She tasted your snacks and liked them so much that she decided to ask you to make them at the last minute. At first, she heard that Old Madam Qi had given her thirty taels and did not intend to pay higher than that. I told her that you are a girl and don't go out easily. Moreover, the town's business is too busy. In the end, we raised the price to forty taels and the fare was five taels. This price is considered high in the prefectural city. After all, we are only doing it for a day.”

Su Xiaoxiao nodded.

Manager Sun's business ability was not to be underestimated.

Su Xiaoxiao said seriously, “As we agreed from the beginning, I'll give you 20% of our earnings. The ingredients and the fare will be on me.”

Manager Sun smiled: “Deal.”

This price was not very fair. If he was at his peak, not to mention 20% interest, he would easily draw 40%.

However, things were different now. He had been chased out by Jin Ji. Jin Ji slandered him everywhere. His value had plummeted, and no shop dared to use him anymore.

He was in dire straits.

In addition, at this critical juncture, Miss Su was willing to abandon her past grudges and hire him. It could be considered a timely help.

The carriage soon arrived at the inn.

Su Ergou smacked his lips.

“Haven't you seen enough?” Su Xiaoxiao asked.

“Yes.” Su Ergou nodded honestly.

Children were really energetic. After sitting in the carriage for an entire day, she was about to fall apart, but Su Ergou was still full of energy.

Su Xiaoxiao yawned. “I'm tired today. After I finish my business tomorrow, I'll accompany you to the streets at night.”

Su Ergou's eyes widened. “Can, can I?”

Not just to take a look? But to walk around?

“Okay, be good tonight and don't make a fuss. I'll take you there tomorrow.” Su Xiaoxiao yawned again. She was really sleepy.

“Alright!”

Su Ergou jumped off the carriage. “Manager Sun! Quick, quick, quick! I want to sleep!”

“Good!” Manager Sun smiled and got off the carriage.

Emotions between people were infectious. At first, he did not understand why Miss Su would bring her younger brother along. He thought that perhaps she wanted his younger brother to gain exposure to the world.

Now, he seemed to understand that this younger brother of hers was simply very refreshing!

Manager Sun went to Yuelai Inn to book a room.

Come and read on our website wuxia worldsite. Thanks

Su Xiaoxiao had her own room, while he and Su Ergou shared one and Xiaowu had a room.

“I want to stay with Xiaowu.” Su Ergou said.

Little Wu was only a few years older than Su Ergou. There was no generation gap between the two of them. Manager Sun was a little mature, so Su Ergou could not relate to him.

Manager Sun looked at Su Xiaoxiao.

Su Xiaoxiao was no longer yawning. She stood in front of the counter and was about to fall asleep.

“Alright.” Manager Sun said to Su Ergou.

He paid for the room and the deposit. “Let's go up.”

Su Xiaoxiao turned around and walked forward in a daze.

Manager Sun took a few steps up the stairs and turned around: “Miss Su! You're going the wrong way!”

Su Xiaoxiao had already arrived at the door. She tripped and knocked her head against the door.

Eh?

It didn't hurt.

Su Xiaoxiao opened one eyelid. She was too tired to open the other one.

A cold and handsome young face entered her line of sight.

How beautiful.

“Jing Yi?”

Su Xiaoxiao recognized him.

Jing Yi's hand was firmly on the door frame. She had bumped into the back of Jing Yi's hand just now.

No wonder it didn't hurt.

The young man was wearing a black brocade robe and a dark-colored fox fur cloak. His face was a little childish, but his eyes were filled with a fearsome heroic spirit.

He was almost comparable to Wei Ting.

He looked travel-worn as if he had also rushed over.

Manager Sun had met Jing Yi once, but his attention was on Su Xiaoxiao, so he didn't recognize Jing Yi.

He hurried to Su Xiaoxiao's side and pulled her behind him. He said to this young man, “I'm sorry, Young Master. We didn't mean to offend you. Please forgive us!”

With that, he cupped his hands at Jing Yi and pulled Su Xiaoxiao, who was about to fall asleep, upstairs.

“Young Marquis!” Bai Ze walked over. “Did something happen? Why did you suddenly get off the carriage?”

“I'm fine.” Jing Yi looked at the disappearing figure at the end of the corridor, withdrew his hand, and gently rubbed his fingertips.

“We should go,” Bai Ze reminded.

They had an important mission to complete, so they could not delay.

Jing Yi did not move.

Only when he heard the door close upstairs and the sound of someone hitting the bed hard did he leave with the murderous aura and calmness that a young man should not have.

Su Xiaoxiao slept until midnight. It was time to get up and do business.

She touched her forehead.

Jing Yi seemed to have been here yesterday.

This was Su Ergou's first time entering the city, and he was overly excited. He pulled Xiaowu along and chatted for half the night, causing the two of them to have a pair of huge dark circles under their eyes when they were woken up by Manager Sun.

Those who didn't know better would think that they had been up to mischief the night before.

Manager Sun went to get Su Xiaoxiao, who had already dressed up and washed up.

“Uh…”

It seemed she slept really fast and woke up really early.

“Let's make do for breakfast.” Manager Sun handed the steamed bun he bought from outside to Su Xiaoxiao.

“Does the inn have steamed buns?” Su Xiaoxiao took a bite. “Uh… they don't taste good.”

Manager Sun replied: “No, the breakfast at the inn is expensive, the steamed buns were bought from elsewhere.”

The shopkeeper of Jin Ji had never been so frugal when he went out.

Chapter 141

After they had a simple breakfast, the sky was still dark, but the streets were lit. The reason was that there were many shops in the prefecture and they opened early. The candles under the corridor were all lit.

The group got into the carriage.

When Xiaowu was in Jin Ji, he always followed Shopkeeper Sun around to discuss business. He had come to the prefecture city seven or eight times, so he was familiar with the environment.

There were not many pedestrians on the street, so he did not take a shortcut. He sped along the main road and soon arrived at the side door of the Wang family.

Although the Wang family was a merchant family, their house was built in a more imposing style than that of the Qi family. Moreover, it seemed to have been renovated in recent years. The colors of the walls and eaves were very new and magnificent.

The Third Madam had already informed the servant at the side door. After Shopkeeper Sun introduced himself, the servant brought them into the manor and led them to the kitchen.

The Wang family had a total of three branches. The first branch was the direct descendant of Master Wang, and the second and third branches were borne by concubines. Today was the banquet for the first branch's direct grandson, and it was especially grand and festive.

The servants should have started work at midnight. The backyard was brightly lit.

As the servant led the way, he glanced at the siblings from time to time, mainly at Su Xiaoxiao.

It couldn't be helped. Even if Su Xiaoxiao lost dozens of kilograms, she was still a big fatty in ancient times.

However, compared to the dark fatty when she first transmigrated, she was now fair, chubby, and a little cute.

“Brother Qiu, who is it?”

Another servant asked the servant in a low voice.

The servant said in a low voice, “Third Madam hired a chef from Apricot Flower Town.”

“From town?” The maid pursed her lips, clearly looking down on her. “What was Third Madam thinking?”

“Shh…” The servant looked around. “Don't let Third Madam hear this.”

“I know, I know.” The maidservant agreed and looked at Su Xiaoxiao a few more times. She was the most eye-catching among them, so it was impossible not to notice.

Su Xiaoxiao heard their conversation clearly. There was a chain of disdain everywhere. The people in town looked down on the countryside, and the people in the prefecture looked down on the people from town…

She would just do her part and not care about what others say.

Third Madam thoughtfully prepared a small kitchen for them and instructed the servants to try their best to satisfy any ingredients they needed. There was no need to specially report to her.

However, when the servant brought them to the small kitchen that had been prepared in the morning, he unexpectedly discovered that there were people inside.

They were unfamiliar faces.

The servant was stunned and asked, “Who are you? Which branch did you come from?”

A middle-aged man who was preparing flour on the stove said, “We are the pastry chefs hired by your residence.”

The servant said, “That's not right. The pastry chef is here.”

“What happened?”

A delicate female voice slowly sounded from not far away.

The speaker looked to be about thirty-five or thirty-six years old. She was dressed in gorgeous clothes and was covered in jewels. She looked extremely wealthy. She was accompanied by a maidservant and a maidservant. They were both well-dressed.

The servant turned around and bowed to the other party. He said respectfully, “Second Madam!”

The Second Mistress smiled faintly and asked, “It's Lingqiu. What are you doing here?”

The manservant called Lingqiu said, “Second Mistress, I brought the masters over to make snacks.”

“Where did this pastry chef come from?”

“From Apricot Flower Town.”

“Who brought in the town cook?”

“I invited her. Does Second Sister-in-law have any objections?”

Third Madam came over with her maidservants.

Her clothes were plainer than Second Madam's, but she was younger and more beautiful.

Come and read on our website wuxia worldsite. Thanks

She stopped beside the manservant, Manager Sun, and the others and looked at the Second Mistress.

The atmosphere suddenly became a little tense.

Manager Sun was a shrewd person. How could he not understand the attitude of the two Madams?

The eldest branch of the Wang family was in charge, and the first madam held the reins. The second master and the third master were the children of concubines. Usually, the two madams would assist the first madam with the matters of the residence. There were naturally many open and hidden conflicts.

Second Madam said sarcastically, “Sister-in-law, it's not that I want to criticize you, but our Wang family is considered a reputable family in the prefectural city. How can you hire a few chefs from the countryside?”

The second madam actually did not know that Su Xiaoxiao was a village girl. However, the people in town were all considered villagers by the people in the prefectural city.

Third Madam sneered. “Sister-in-law has handed this matter to me. I naturally have the final say on who I invite. Second Sister-in-law, you don't have to worry about it! Those chefs inside are hired by Second Sister-in-law, right? I heard that they're from your maternal family. Second Sister-in-law is right about one thing. Our Wang family is a reputable family. When our maternal family comes, they have to be guests. Why did they come to the kitchen to work? If word gets out, won't people laugh at our Wang family for not knowing how to treat guests?”

The Second Mistress choked.

It was bullsh*t that they were from her maternal family. They were just introduced by her maternal family. In order to get this job, they deliberately said that they were her maternal family.

Manager Sun rubbed his nose resentfully and said in a volume that only he and Su Xiaoxiao could hear, “Did you see that? When immortals fight, ghosts suffer.”

Su Xiaoxiao calmly watched the two ladies fight.

“Big Brother agreed!”

“Eldest Sister-in-law has always been in charge of the matters in the backyard!”

Second Madam's backer was Eldest Master, and Third Madam's backer was First Madam. They were in a stalemate.

Su Xiaoxiao went into the kitchen to make snacks.

“Excuse me,” Su Xiaoxiao said to the chef in front of the stove.

The chef glanced at her.

Su Xiaoxiao grabbed the kitchen knife.

The chef took a step back!

Although it was called a small kitchen, it had two stoves and four pots. Su Xiaoxiao occupied a stove and asked Xiaowu and Su Ergou to bring the ingredients in.

While the two madams were arguing fiercely, Su Xiaoxiao took out a chopping board, sprinkled some powder on it, and started making snacks.

In the Qi family, it was Su Xiaoxiao who snatched the business of Jin Ji. Today, it was someone else who snatched her business.

Regardless of whether Third Madam had obtained First Madam's permission or not, Second Madam had unparalleled confidence when she mentioned First Master.

Under such circumstances, there was only one solution—strength would determine the outcome!

When the other three chefs saw her cooking, they hurriedly took out their ingredients.

“This kind of situation… is rather rare.” Manager Sun was embarrassed.

He was the one who ran the business. If it really failed, it would be his responsibility.

“It's fine,” Su Xiaoxiao said.

Running a business was about risk and profit. It was normal for unexpected events to happen. The most important thing was to be calm.

“Sigh.” Seeing that Su Xiaoxiao did not blame him, Manager Sun secretly heaved a sigh of relief. At the same time, he was also a little glad.

The little girl was young and broad-minded. She could do great things.

The two madams fought until the end, but the chefs did not argue. Instead, the snacks on both sides were out of the oven.

The master hired by the Second Mistress made yellow pea and osmanthus cakes. These were two pastries from the capital, and most of the ones sold in the prefecture were not authentic.

These three masters clearly had some skills. They made it very authentic, the color was pure, and the texture was exquisite.

After they brought it out, there were a few pieces left in the pot that did not look good.

Manager Sun ran over and secretly took two bites.

He was stunned!

Chapter 142

Damn!

They had met their match!

The pastry was authentic!

Jin Ji did not sell yellow pea cakes, but they sold osmanthus cakes. Compared to their osmanthus cakes, Jin Ji's osmanthus cakes were simply like younger brothers!

“Miss Su…” Manager Sun turned back with a complicated expression.

It wasn't that he didn't have confidence in Su Xiaoxiao. He had eaten Su Xiaoxiao's pastries before. The taste was impeccable.

However, those few people were not bad either. In addition, they made famous food in the capital, so they had a reputation.

Su Ji's pastries were delicious, but unfortunately, they were not famous. They were not as well-known as the famous ones in the capital.

“Tsk, what a miscalculation,” Manager Sun sighed.

Soon, Su Xiaoxiao's snacks were out of the pot.

Manager Sun looked at the several yellow and orange… snacks on the plate and pointed at them: “No, these are… eggs? Aren't these… sugar paintings?”

Pastries like these could be seen everywhere on the streets. They were made with syrup bit by bit and looked exquisite. They also tasted saccharine sweet

As for Su Xiaoxiao's, they were not even delicate. They were just in the shape of an eggshell.

“Well… ”

Manager Sun was speechless.

“Take them out.” Su Xiaoxiao said.

“Ah.” Manager Sun's mouth opened and closed several times. He braced himself and took the “eggshells” out.

She was the creditor. She was the boss!

Seeing Manager Sun bring out the eggs, Second Madam burst out laughing. “Third Sister-in-law, this is the chef you hired. What did she make? They're not even as good as my cooking!”

These were just eggs made with sugar. Could a seven or eight-year-old child make them?

Third Madam also frowned slightly.

Manager Sun said, “Don't ask me, the boss made it!”

The Second Mistress was almost out of breath from laughing. She covered her face with a handkerchief and said, “Then bring the snacks over for Eldest Brother and Eldest Sister-in-law to try. Let's see whose they like more!”

The servants carried the three snacks to the courtyard of the eldest branch.

First Master and First Madam had just woken up and were sitting down to eat some millet porridge.

There were two meals of fish and meat in the day, so they did not eat much in the morning.

The snacks were placed on the table for the two of them.

This was Eldest Master's fault. Matters of the residence were First Madam's territory, and he shouldn't have meddled. It was his second brother who came to look for him and talked for half a day; he couldn't refuse and agreed.

“Madam, you make the decision.” His lordship said.

The First Madam sighed. “You promised Second Brother. If I don't agree, wouldn't that embarrass you in front of your brothers?”

Eldest Master was very pleased. He smiled and said, “Then should we still use the chef Second Brother called over?”

“It looks like Second Brother's chef is reliable.” First Madam's gaze swept across the three snacks and landed on a few “eggs” made of sugar. She frowned.

“What kind of chef did Third Sister-in-law hire?”

The servants quickly came over from the courtyard of the eldest branch.

Second Madam and Third Madam asked in unison, “What did Eldest Brother and Eldest Sister-in-law say?”

The servant lowered his head and reported, “Reporting to the two Madams, First Master and First Madam said to use the pastry chef that Third Madam invited.”

“Impossible!” The Second Mistress raised her voice. “You must have said the wrong thing! They made a candy!”

That was right, Su Xiaoxiao did make a piece of candy. It was just in the shape of an eggshell, but it was essentially candy.

What was so special about it?

The three chefs saw that there were two left on Su Xiaoxiao's stove; Su Ergou had eaten one.

They walked over with sullen faces. One of them broke off a small piece of sugar with his bare hands.

“Just the smell of syrup. Nothing special…”

Wait.

The head chef suddenly paused and tasted it carefully with the tip of his tongue. As if he realized something, he picked up a small spoon at the side and broke the sugar egg.

An unbelievable scene happened.

There was actually a little tiger made of pastry lying in the sugar egg.

The tiger's body was tender yellow, and the tiger's head and tail were outlined with brown syrup.

It was the size of a palm, lifelike, soft, and cute.

The young master of the Wang family was a tiger based on his zodiac!

Amazing.

This snack was amazing!

Not to mention the taste, just the meaning and appearance alone were a few streets ahead of them!

After tasting it, the three of them could not quibble!

The tiger snacks were made with corn flour. The filling was made by Su Xiaoxiao herself. In addition, she mixed a small spoonful of peanut butter that Wei Ting had mashed. The taste was sour and sweet, and there was a strong fragrance of peanuts.

The taste was very layered; the texture was rich, and the main and secondary tastes were distinctive.

The three of them admitted defeat!

Third Madam was proud and elated. After being suppressed by the second branch for many years, she finally gained respect from her eldest brother and sister-in-law.

She smiled brightly. “Second Sister-in-law, if there's nothing else, I'll take my leave first. Second Sister-in-law, go do your work too. Let's not disturb Miss Su and Brother Su from making snacks here.”

The Second Mistress stormed off like a defeated rooster!

Third Madam smiled and said, “I've invited the right people. Make the snacks well. The price we originally discussed will not change. Also, make more of these snacks. I'll increase the price by ten taels!”

“There's no need to raise the price…” Manager Sun was just being polite. How could he really refuse?

Ten taels of silver were nothing to the Wang family. Third Madam could still afford it.

“It's settled then.” Third Madam praised Su Xiaoxiao a few more times before turning around to meet her eldest brother and sister-in-law.

Manager Sun laughed as he wiped away his cold sweat. When he worked with Miss Su, he needed a strong heart.

Su Xiaoxiao's pastries were done very smoothly. Su Ergou had improved visibly these days and was much more efficient.

When she went to town to do business, Su Xiaoxiao always felt that she was too busy in the morning because they were in a hurry. The Wang family's birthday banquet only started at noon. There was plenty of time, so she was not afraid.

“Ergou, are you tired?”

“I'm not tired!”

“Do you like to cook like what we did today, or do you like to sell snacks?”

“Both!” Su Ergou said.

It was more fun to sell snacks, but he had earned a lot from cooking. He had heard that the lady had added ten taels the moment she opened her mouth!

Su Xiaoxiao, “This child really makes one feel a sense of achievement.”

Second Madam left, but the three chefs she had invited did not. The three of them shamelessly stayed behind to see what snacks Su Xiaoxiao would make.

Su Xiaoxiao didn't hide anything.

This made the three men even more embarrassed.

If it were them, they probably wouldn't be able to allow someone else to “steal” from them.

“Can I trouble you to knead some flour?” Su Xiaoxiao asked.

“Yes, alright!” The three of them hurriedly agreed.

What kind of experience was it to have a professional chef as an assistant? Su Xiaoxiao could only say that it was very smooth!

Su Xiaoxiao realized that there was a nanny goat in the residence and asked Manager Sun and the servant to bring a jar of goat milk over.

She poured the goat's milk into the pot and boiled it to remove the fishy smell. She boiled some ginger milk and sent it to the madams.

She had heard Third Madam's nasal voice just now.

In addition, she made milk-flavored chestnut cakes, dried fruit milk rolls, and sesame sauce milk rolls.

Everything could be healed!

Chapter 143

Of course, traditional snacks were also essential.

If Su Ergou was the only one helping her, she wouldn't be able to do so many things. But now, she had three free laborers.

It would be a waste not to use it!

While Su Xiaoxiao was making snacks, Manager Sun was not idle either. He shamelessly went to the front yard to expand his business.

He didn't care if he was an invited guest or not. In short, he just had to sneak in. How could his skin be more important than business?

If he was not shameless, Jin Ji would not have become the boss of Apricot Flower Town from a small workshop!

He, Sun Quan, was down and out, but one day, he would definitely make a comeback!

The banquet was about to begin and everything was ready.

Manager Sun also relied on his ability to boast and attract a lot of business.

How many could be decided today…

He suppressed the smile on his face and hurried to the kitchen.

“Sister, I want to relieve myself.” Su Ergou said.

His sister's ginger milk was too delicious. He could not help but drink three big bowls.

“Go. Do you know where it is?” Su Xiaoxiao asked.

“I know. That servant has already said it,” Su Ergou replied.

As soon as Su Ergou left, Manager Sun arrived.

He was overjoyed. “I was lucky today and bumped into the Qi family. They praised our desserts and said that they were delicious. I took the opportunity to pull in a few business deals. The latest deal is in ten days. The Zhao family's daughter is coming of age. Madam Zhao wants to see you. Are you free now? If you are, send the snacks to the front and meet Madam Zhao on the way. I've already spoken to Third Madam, and she has no objections.”

“Deal.”

Coincidentally, she was done here.

Su Xiaoxiao took out the plates from her house. “Come and load the plates. Watch how I do it.”

The three chefs: “Okay, Miss Su!”

Manager Sun was dumbfounded.

Wait a minute, what happened in the hour or two he wasn't there?

After the plates were loaded, Su Xiaoxiao and Manager Sun carried a food box to the front hall.

The rest of the snacks would be served by the servants of the Wang family. There was no need for her to spend any effort.

“Let me tell you about the Zhao Family…” Manager Sun took the food box and began to introduce the Zhao Family to Su Xiaoxiao.

When the two of them passed through a corridor, a woman's pleading voice came from a small bamboo garden not far away.

“Let go of him! Let go of him! Let go of my brother!”

“Ah!”

The woman was probably pushed to the ground and knocked over something on the ground. She even let out a scream.

A man reprimanded, “Get up quickly! Stop crying and howling! If you make Mr. Li unhappy, watch your skin!”

“Steward Wu, I'm begging you! I'm kneeling down for you! Let them release my brother—my brother is still young—he's not a servant of the Wang family—”

“He's a servant of the Wang family! What did you say when you brought him into the residence?”

“I don't want him to come to the Wang family anymore! Manager Wu, let him go! I only have one younger brother! Steward Wu…”

Su Xiaoxiao's eyes were cold.

Manager Sun shook his head: “Sigh, we can't interfere with the matters of the mansion. Let's go.”

“Steward Wu, I beg you…”

“If you continue to shout, I'll get someone to chase you out! You'll ruin Mr. Li's mood. When he denounces us later, we'll all have to bear the consequences!”

Su Xiaoxiao stopped in her tracks.

She heard a young man's muffled groan of resistance coming from a room in the small bamboo garden. It was very weak and unreal.

Manager Sun's hearing was not as good as hers, so he did not hear any sounds. However, he had been around for many years, so how could he not guess what had happened?

“At today's banquet, the only one surnamed Li seems to be the young master of Prefecture Lord Li's family,” Manager Sun said in a low voice. “According to rumors, this young master is the youngest son of Prefecture Lord Li, and also the only legitimate son. He has been spoiled by his family and has been tainted with some… disgraceful hobbies.”

What did he mean by a dishonorable hobby?

To put it bluntly, he was a promiscuous homosexual!

In the prefecture, Prefecture Lord Li was almost omnipotent. Although many people hated Young Master Li's actions, they could not do anything to him.

According to Steward Wu's conversation with the woman, Young Master Li had touched a servant of the Wang Family.

This was too ridiculous!

Su Xiaoxiao clenched her fists.

Steward Sun saw the murderous look on her face and hurriedly advised, “Don't, don't, don't, Miss Su, don't be rash! We're not from the Wang family. We can't even be considered guests! That person inside is the legitimate son of Prefecture Lord Li! Not to mention our current identities, even if we combine the strengths of Jin Ji and the Qi family, we're not enough to argue with the Li family! We can't afford to offend them!”

As he spoke, he decisively reached out to grab Su Xiaoxiao's wrist.

At his age, he had no ill intentions toward Su Xiaoxiao. He purely treated her as a junior and wanted to pull her away.

Su Xiaoxiao didn't move. “You go first.”

“You… you won't…” Manager Sun looked around, lowered his voice, and advised in a low voice, “I know you're warm-hearted, otherwise you wouldn't have saved that child at Jin Ji! But there are so many injustices in the world. Can you control them? Before you control others, you have to think for yourself first! If we offend Prefecture Lord Li, we can forget about doing business in the Prefecture City in the future! A sneeze from him can take our lives!”

Su Xiaoxiao took a deep breath and loosened her fists.

“That's more like it!” Manager Sun heaved a sigh of relief. “It's not that we're cold, but the world is difficult and complex. Sometimes, we have to accept our fate. Let's go. Out of sight, out of mind.”

The room was dimly lit.

Mr. Li smiled evilly and walked towards the young man on the bed.

The young man struggled, but his entire body was tied up and his mouth was gagged. All his struggles were in vain.

Young Master Lee charged forward.

“It's your fortune to serve me!”

“Don't worry. If you serve me well, I'll let you live a good life for the rest of your life. You won't have to be a servant in this lousy residence anymore!”

Young Master Li raised his hand to tug at his belt.

The door was kicked open.

A chubby figure rushed in like a hurricane. She grabbed Young Master Li from the bed and threw him to the ground mercilessly!

Young Master Li screamed as he fell. He was half-awake. “Who is it? Which bastard! How dare you hurl me!”

Su Xiaoxiao walked over and aimed a kick at his chest!

“Ouch!”

Young Master Li was kicked so hard that he flipped over. His nose bridge was broken, and blood sprayed all over the ground!

Su Xiaoxiao quickly untied the young man.

“Brother…”

The woman rushed in crying.

The servants who were knocked down by Su Xiaoxiao also got up and followed her.

At the same time, Su Xiaoxiao saw the young man's face clearly.

Her eyes turned cold!

The woman came to the bed and stopped crying!

Manager Sun ran the slowest. He panted as he entered. When he took a closer look, he staggered and fell!

What was the situation?

How did the young man who was forced by Mr. Li become… Su Ergou?

Su Ergou, whose mouth was gagged, roared, “Boohoo!”

This time, even Young Master Li was dumbfounded.

Where was his beautiful young man?

How did it become a little black skin?

Chapter 144

Su Ergou was indeed a little… tanned.

He was good-looking. After all, Father Su and Madam Chen were not bad-looking. However, he was not Young Master Li's cup of tea. He liked those that were fair, tender, and weak.

Su Ergou looked very irritable at first glance. He was especially aggressive. Young Master Li could not take it and hugged his chest as if he had been taken advantage of!

Su Ergou was furious. When he came out of the toilet, he was actually put in a sack! The little bully had never suffered such grievances in his life!

After Su Xiaoxiao untied him, he took off the cloth ball in his mouth and raised his fist to punch Young Master Li!

The servants of the Wang Family and Young Master Li were also in the room. They could not let Young Master Li be beaten up. They rushed up and surrounded Su Ergou.

Su Ergou would rather take a few punches himself than let Young Master Li off. This ruthlessness could be said to be the Su family's legacy.

Seeing that everyone's fists were about to land on Su Ergou, Su Xiaoxiao picked up a stool with her toes and kicked it at the servants, knocking them to the ground.

Su Xiaoxiao took the opportunity to go forward and snatch the sticks from their hands. Then, she swept at the other people who were surrounding Su Ergou!

The small bamboo garden was not big, and the room was even smaller. The group of people could not do much to attack, nor could they hide. Seven or eight servants were forcefully wiped off by the siblings!

Manager Sun was on the verge of tears.

“Oh my god, oh my god, when Ergou beat someone up, it was fine if you didn't stop him, but why did you beat him up too?”

“Are you trying to offend Mr. Li to the end?”

Many people naively thought that taking a step back was a big deal, but was that really the case? If Su Xiaoxiao and Su Ergou didn't do anything, would these people let them off?

The answer was no.

From Young Master Li's actions, it could be seen that this person was an unreasonable bastard. Whether Su Ergou beat him up or not, he would settle scores with Su Ergou and Su Xiaoxiao today.

If that was the case, why was there a need to argue with him?

Such a huge commotion in the Little Bamboo Garden naturally could not be hidden. When Prefecture Lord Li heard that his son had fought with someone, he initially thought that his son had bullied someone else again.

However, when he, the Wang family's Eldest Master, First Madam, and the other women rushed to the Little Bamboo Garden, they were surprised to find that the person who had been beaten up was his son!

“Stop! All of you, stop! You guys! Hurry up and pull them away!”

There were guards from the government office. Their grasp of martial arts was not something a few servants could compare to. The moment the guards reached out to catch him, Su Xiaoxiao dragged Su Ergou over. The guards missed and were a little stunned.

Su Xiaoxiao pulled Su Ergou aside and dragged him away. However, the latter had his own thoughts and gave Young Master Li another slap!

Prefecture Lord Li's face darkened!

Everyone was so frightened that they did not dare to speak.

“What exactly is going on?” Prefecture Lord Li asked in a low voice.

Since he was asking about Young Master Li's followers, he was also asking about the siblings who had beaten up his son.

Su Ergou snorted. “Ask him!”

Everyone gasped. “Kid, do you know who you're talking to?”

The Second Mistress pretended to be surprised. “Aiya, Third Sister-in-law, aren't they the chefs you hired?”

As soon as these words were spoken, Lord Li's cold gaze landed on Third Madam's face!

Third Madam was so nervous that her face turned pale and a cold sweat broke out all over her body.

“Father…” Young Master Li covered his swollen face and came to his father in tears. “You're finally here. If you were any later, I wouldn't have been able to see you. Hurry up and bring them in! Bring them to jail!”

Manager Sun's expression changed!

The prison in the prefecture capital? Once they entered the prison, they would die!

“What's going on!” Lord Li asked again.

Yours Truly wasn't even fierce yet, so why was he so fierce? Su Ergou said angrily, “What else could it be? He got someone to kidnap me! What's with that? What a big pervert!”

Su Ergou was still young, so he didn't quite understand. He spoke vaguely, but everyone in the room understood.

They had long heard that Young Master Li had some hobbies in that area. They did not expect to see it with their own eyes in the Wang family's backyard today.

No matter how noble Young Master Li's background was, this was the Wang family. Wasn't this a little too ridiculous?

Young Master Li had actually drunk too much. In addition, he was indeed used to being arrogant. He could not control himself when he was drunk.

Chapter 145

Su Ergou's rhetorical words were like a resounding slap to Prefecture Lord Li's face!

Prefecture Lord Li's face flushed red!

However, what was even more humiliating was that Young Master Li actually started arguing with Su Ergou.

“Nonsense! I didn't ask anyone to tie you up! You climbed onto my bed yourself! I asked someone to tie that kid up! Look at yourself! Why would I like you!”

Prefecture Lord Li was so angry that his heart was twitching.

Everyone could not bear to watch. It was fine if he wanted to mess around, but why was he so stupid?

Couldn't he just deny it? Although everyone knew his inclinations, they could pretend to be blind! They could go against their conscience and say that they didn't believe the siblings' words!

To think he shot himself in the foot!

Su Ergou said fiercely, “You said I climbed onto the bed on my own. How can I tie myself up?”

The few Li family servants with swollen faces wished they could lower their heads into their pants.

This was a huge farce.

They had kidnapped the wrong person.

“My Lord!”

A young official in his late twenties walked over. He cupped his hands and bowed to Prefecture Lord Li. “Leave these two troublemakers to me! Young Master Li is injured. It's better to get a doctor to treat him in time to prevent him from falling ill.”

Prefecture Lord Li's resentful gaze swept across the siblings before he left with his injured son.

Second Madam sneered and looked at Third Madam, who didn't even dare to breathe loudly. “Third Sister-in-law, you should have listened to me earlier. Wouldn't it be fine if we didn't use these two chefs? Now that Young Master Li is injured in our family, I wonder if he will implicate us and bear a grudge!”

First Madam shouted, “You should stop talking too!”

Second Mistress shut her mouth.

Eldest Master did not say anything but his words were written all over his face.

First Madam said to Su Xiaoxiao, “The Wang Family is small and can't accommodate the two of you. Our Wang Family can't afford such a capable chef.”

With that, she left with First Master.

The joys and sorrows between people were not interlinked. Not everyone could empathize with others.

Third Madam had invited them here to make her proud. Now that they had embarrassed her, Third Madam was no longer willing to pay attention to them.

“I'm done with the snacks,” Su Xiaoxiao said.

“You still want snack money!” Third Madam's expression changed instantly. “You caused such a big commotion and damaged a room full of things. I still have to ask you to compensate me!”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “We didn't break everything.”

Third Madam was speechless.

When they came out of the Wang family, the young official was also there.

He was the grandson of Old Madam Qi. His name was Qi Ming. Two years ago, he made it to the top two in the academic rankings. He did not enter the Imperial Academy and was sent to Qingzhou to be the official secretary of the prefecture.

He said, “You should leave the prefecture capital as soon as possible. The Prefecture Lord only has one legitimate son. If you hurt him, it's best not to fall into the Prefecture Lord's hands again.”

Su Xiaoxiao asked, “Aren't you going to arrest us?”

Qi Ming smiled helplessly. “If I capture you, my grandmother won't be able to eat your snacks later. She'll blame me. I'll tell the Prefectural Lord that you're not from the prefectural city and have already been captured and brought back to the county office, which will watch you strictly and make you suffer in prison.”

Su Xiaoxiao looked at him deeply, “Lord Qi, you are a good official.”

Qi Ming's eyes flickered.

Su Xiaoxiao and the others got into the carriage.

“Miss Su!” Qi Ming suddenly spoke.

Su Xiaoxiao turned around and looked at him in confusion.

Qi Ming smiled gently. “Manager Sun has told me everything that happened just now. You didn't do anything wrong.”

Su Xiaoxiao got into the carriage and looked at Manager Sun, who had a bitter expression on his face. She straightened her fat waist and said, “See! Lord Qi said I did nothing wrong!”

Manager Sun sighed.

What kind of fearless boss did he have?

“Manager Sun, where is the prefectural academy?” Su Xiaoxiao asked.

“At Long Stream Street,” Manager Sun replied.

“Is it far?”

“It's not too far away. Why are you asking about this?”

Su Xiaoxiao took a weed off Su Ergou's head. “Business ended early. I'm going to visit a friend.”

“It's Young Master Shen, right?” Manager Sun had seen Shen Chuan visit her stall more than once.

Su Xiaoxiao nodded. “It's him. You know him too?”

Manager Sun smiled: “I can't say I know him. He used to be a regular customer of Jin Ji. He once came to me and asked me to sell the snacks to their academy, but I didn't agree. At that time, I looked down on the small business of the academy. Now I don't regret it. Otherwise, Jin Ji would have reaped benefits.”

Su Xiaoxiao said confidently, “Jin Ji is not cheap. I can snatch the business even if you do it.”

Manager Sun replied, “Although this is the truth, can't you be more humble?”

About fifteen minutes later, the carriage stopped at the entrance of the prefecture academy.

“Wow, the prefectural academy is so impressive!” Su Ergou said in a daze.

Shopkeeper Sun explained: “Of course it is impressive.”

Su Xiaoxiao did not wait long before Shen Chuan came out with a fan.

“Shen Chuan.”

Su Xiaoxiao walked over with her chubby hands behind her back.

Shen Chuan turned around and said in surprise, “Miss Su?”

Su Xiaoxiao came in front of him and looked at the students behind him. “I saw them walking in groups of twos and threes. Why are you alone?”

Shen Chuan opened his fan. “I like to be alone! By the way, why are you in the prefecture capital? Are you here alone?”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Ergou, Manager Sun, and a shop assistant called Xiaowu went to buy things.”

“Is that Manager Sun from Jin Ji?” Shen Chuan asked.

“It's him.” Su Xiaoxiao nodded, “He's my manager now.”

Shen Chuan said in a daze, “Uh… It seems that a lot has happened while I was away from town… By the way, why did you come to the prefecture capital?”

Su Xiaoxiao said casually, “I'm here to do some business.”

Shen Chuan was amused. “Not bad, your business has even reached the prefectural city!”

Chapter 146

As the saying went, there were three joys in life—getting onto the rankings, the wedding night, and meeting an old friend in a foreign land.

Shen Chuan did not have a chance to do the first two for the time being, but he caught up to the last one. It would be a lie to say that he was not happy.

He treated Su Xiaoxiao and the others to a meal at the White Cloud Pavilion, the most famous restaurant in the prefecture.

The food at the White Cloud Pavilion was not bad. Manager Sun had been here a few times.

Shen Chuan had never lost in prodigality. He ordered a large table full of signature dishes.

“Is it good?” Shen Chuan asked.

“Delicious,” Su Xiaoxiao said.

Su Ergou thought to himself that they were clearly not as delicious as the food she made.

Su Xiaoxiao was on a diet and couldn't eat too much. She stopped eating the rest of the dishes and slowly pecked at the bean sprouts in her bowl.

Shen Chuan said, “I haven't asked you. What business are you here for?”

Su Xiaoxiao said calmly, “Oh, it's to make snacks at the Wang family's banquet.”

Shen Chuan said in surprise, “The Wang family? The Wang family that owns the cloth shop?”

Su Xiaoxiao: “Yes.”

Shen Chuan's eyes widened. “Oh my god, you're too amazing!”

This was more than just amazing. It was simply heaven-defying, okay?

After all, she had only set up a stall to do business for two months, but she was already welcomed by the rich Wang family.

“Is the price high?” Shen Chuan was not interested in other people's matters, but he was quite gossipy about Su Xiaoxiao.

Su Xiaoxiao said lightly, “Not much, 40 to 50 taels.”

Shen Chuan was dumbfounded. Wasn't 40 to 50 taels a lot? She was too arrogant!

Manager Sun laughed. They had smashed a room full of furniture. They had to pay 50 taels in compensation. They had even lost five taels.

Shen Chuan was full of admiration. “The Wang family has a lot of connections. You guys should have negotiated a lot of other businesses at his family's banquet, right?”

Su Xiaoxiao wanted to save face. “Yes, there's also the Zhao family and the coming-of-age ceremony. I don't remember the other two.”

Manager Sun continued to laugh. Yes, they accepted orders, but they were all canceled.

–

After dinner, it was still early.

Shen Chuan wanted to take her around the prefectural city, but she shook her head and refused. “I have to go to Qingyun Nunnery to deliver something for someone.”

At this point, Shen Chuan could not force her to stay.

However, when he went to check out, he was told that the bill had been paid.

Shen Chuan looked at the carriage that was gradually driving away and felt a little upset. “I promised to be the host…”

–

“Young lady, creditor, boss, how should I address you?”

In the carriage, Manager Sun smiled insincerely. “We lost 5 taels. The meal just now was 5 taels. Today, we have a negative profit of 10 taels. Do you have too much money to burn? How about letting me return only twenty taels?”

Su Xiaoxiao glanced at him. “If you dare to give me one copper coin less, try it!”

She felt that Shen Chuan's life in the prefecture was not as comfortable as she had imagined.

–

At seven o'clock, the carriage arrived at the foot of the mountain.

Qingyun Nunnery was located halfway up the mountain. They climbed for more than an hour before they finally entered the nunnery hall.

Manager Sun was so tired that he was panting like an ox: “If I had known… If I had known it was so tiring… I would have accompanied Xiaowu… to rest in the carriage… What did I do… I wanted to join in the fun with the two of you…”

Su Xiaoxiao was also panting, but not as hard as him.

The last time she fought with the tiger, she seemed to have broken through the limits of her physical fitness. She could feel that her physical fitness had increased by another level.

Su Ergou was jumping around and looking around.

The nunnery was not as interesting as the bustling marketplace. He felt bored after a few glances.

Qingyun Nunnery had been around for a long time. The bricks and tiles were old and rusted, and they were showing signs of being eroded by time. Green moss grew on the limestone slabs in the corner, and one might slip on rainy days.

Su Xiaoxiao entered the nunnery.

A little nun who was sweeping the courtyard looked up at them. “Patron, are you here to offer incense?”

Su Xiaoxiao took out a letter from her pocket. “I'm looking for Grandmaster Hui Jue. An old friend with the surname Fu asked me to bring something to her. This is a letter from that old friend. Grandmaster Hui Jue will know who it is after reading it.”

“Oh… Patron, please wait a moment.” The little nun put down the broom, took the letter, and walked through the hall to the meditation room in the back row.

After a while, she turned back and said to Su Xiaoxiao, “Patron, please come in.”

In a meditation room, Su Xiaoxiao saw a nun who was about the same age as Madam Fu.

Perhaps it was because she was a nun, but she looked very calm and peaceful.

“Grandmaster Hui Jue,” Su Xiaoxiao greeted.

Grandmaster Hui Jue sat at the table. She put down Madam Fu's letter and looked at Su Xiaoxiao gently and kindly. “Little Patron Su, please sit.”

Chapter 147

Su Xiaoxiao was not surprised that she could say her surname. Madam Fu must have mentioned it in her letter.

Mistress Hui Jue smiled. “Did Ting Lan ask you to come? How has she been this year?”

Ting Lan?

Was this Aunt Fu's name?

It sounded so nice.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “I just met Aunt Fu not long ago. I can't say for the past year. She's been… okay for the past two months. She broke her leg at home before the New Year. She's fine now.”

Grandmistress Hui Jue shook her head. “I knew she only reported good news and not bad news! Is she really fine?”

“Yes, she's recovering very well,” Su Xiaoxiao said.

She was indeed recovering well. In another half a month, she would be able to remove the splint. Her blood pressure was also under control, and she had a harmonious relationship with her neighbors.

Aunt Fu was living a good life now.

Grandmaster Hui Jue looked at Su Xiaoxiao gently. She could feel from her expression that Ting Lan was doing well.

Su Xiaoxiao didn't stay in the meditation room for too long. She talked about Madam Fu's recent situation and handed over the health pills she was asked to bring over.

After Grandmaster Hui Jue accepted it, she replied to Madam Fu with a letter and asked a few little nuns to bring over a few large sacks.

Su Xiaoxiao opened one of them.

Good lord, they were all high-grade tea leaves and dry goods!

So, did all of Aunt Fu's good stuff come from Grandmaster Hui Jue?

Then there was a new question. How did Grandmaster Hui Jue, who had lived in the mountains for a long time, obtain so many high-grade tea leaves and dried goods?

She felt that this nun was not simple…

Mistress Hui Jue also gave Su Xiaoxiao a bag of tea leaves.

Su Xiaoxiao had to rush back to the inn and couldn't stay for long. After thanking her, she bade farewell to Grandmaster Hui Jue.

Grandmaster Hui Jue suddenly felt reluctant. “Actually, it's getting late. If Young Patron Su doesn't mind, you can stay in the nunnery.”

When the little nuns in the room heard this, their mouths widened in shock.

The Grandmaster actually invited a little patron to stay over?

She didn't even see visitors!

If Su Xiaoxiao was alone, she wouldn't mind, but since Su Ergou and Manager Sun couldn't stay in the nunnery, she couldn't leave Ergou behind.

“Sorry, I came up the mountain with my brother and a manager.”

Su Xiaoxiao tactfully expressed her rejection.

Grandmaster Hui Jue understood and didn't force her to stay. She just said to Su Xiaoxiao, “Little Benefactor Su, if you come to the prefecture next time, can you come and talk to me?”

Su Xiaoxiao was surprised.

She agreed. “Okay.”

Su Xiaoxiao left Grandmaster Hui Jue's courtyard.

Before she left, she left a box of snacks for Grandmaster Hui Jue.

Su Ergou and Manager Sun were nowhere to be seen. Su Xiaoxiao did not see the two of them, but she saw an unexpected… acquaintance.

It was not appropriate to say that they knew each other.

After all, they had only met once this afternoon.

“Little Master, please help me pass the message.”

This man who was so polite to the nun in the nunnery was none other than Prefecture Lord Li.

Prefecture Lord Li did not have such a humble attitude in the Wang family.

The little nun said, “The nun has ordered that she would not see all devotees. If I pass the message on your behalf, I will be scolded!”

Could it be that the person Prefecture Lord Li requested to see was Grandmaster Hui Jue?

Su Xiaoxiao narrowed her eyes and calmly walked past the two of them.

Prefecture Lord Li was not blind. A figure suddenly walked towards him, and it was from Grandmaster Hui Jue's courtyard.

He immediately said, “Didn't a devotee enter?”

After saying that, he realized that something was wrong and turned his head away.

“It's you!”

Su Xiaoxiao stopped in surprise and turned to look at him.

“Aiya, Prefecture Lord Li! I'm sorry!”

She didn't look too sorry with her arrogant attitude!

Prefecture Lord Li looked at Su Xiaoxiao in shock, not understanding how she could come out of Grandmaster Hui Jue's courtyard.

“You!”

Su Xiaoxiao spoke at the same time, “Prefecture Lord Li, are you here to see Grandmaster Hui Jue too?”

Too?

Did this girl really see Grandmaster Hui Jue?

Prefecture Lord Li was shocked!

“For…”

He wanted to ask the little nun why but the little nun had already run away!

Only he and the chubby village girl were left on the lawn.

He was no longer as humble as before. Instead, he looked supercilious. “How did you get in?”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “I walked in. Do I have to crawl?”

Prefecture Lord Li choked.

This girl!

“I'm asking you, why did Grandmaster Hui Jue agree to see you?”

“Maybe I look better?”

Lord Li was dumbfounded.

Coincidentally, at this moment, another little nun walked out with a sack of dry goods. “Little Patron Su, where is your carriage? Senior Sisters and I will send it down the mountain for you.”

Su Xiaoxiao hurriedly said, “No need. When my brother comes back, we'll take it down the mountain ourselves.”

Prefecture Lord Li was even more surprised. “These things are…”

Su Xiaoxiao said lightly, “Oh, they're from the Grandmaster.”

Although it was not for her alone.

Not only did that person see this girl, but she also gave her something.

Lord Li's expression immediately became very interesting.

Su Xiaoxiao purposely said, “Oh, does Prefecture Lord Li want to see the Grandmaster too?”

“I…” Prefecture Lord Li was just about to take the opportunity to ask the little nuns when they all disappeared!

They were professionals at hiding from devotees!

Prefecture Lord Li clenched his fists and looked at Su Xiaoxiao unwillingly. “You… go tell the Grandmaster that I want to see her.”

“Prefecture Lord Li, are you ordering me?” Su Xiaoxiao smiled. “My leg hurts and I can't walk.”

“You touched my son. I haven't settled this score with you! Don't fail to appreciate my kindness!”

Su Xiaoxiao turned around and left!

“Come back!”

Su Xiaoxiao kept walking forward!

Prefecture Lord Li clenched his fists tightly. “You unruly commoner!”

Su Xiaoxiao stepped out of the nunnery.

“Please!”

He spat out the word through gritted teeth.

Su Xiaoxiao stepped on the threshold and didn't look back. She stretched out a finger.

“What are you doing?”

“Running expenses? Am I going to pass the message for nothing?”

Prefecture Lord Li glared at Su Xiaoxiao and took out a silver ingot. He walked to the door and coldly handed it to Su Xiaoxiao.

Su Xiaoxiao shook her finger in disdain. “100 taels!”

Prefecture Lord Li trembled. “Why don't you go rob someone!”

Su Xiaoxiao raised her eyebrows. “Then I'm leaving.”

Prefecture Lord Li was furious. He gritted his teeth and took out a banknote worth 100 taels.

Su Xiaoxiao took the banknote and went to look for Grandmaster Hui Jue.

Soon, she walked out with her head held high.

Prefecture Lord Li could not hide their excitement and asked, “Did you convey the message? What did the Grandmaster say?”

Su Xiaoxiao stretched out her hand and made a hand gesture.

Prefecture Lord Li's face darkened. He took out another banknote for 100 taels of silver and slapped it on her palm!

Su Xiaoxiao continued to gesture.

Prefecture Lord Li gritted his teeth and took out another banknote.

It wasn't until he took out four banknotes that Su Xiaoxiao reluctantly stopped.

She said indifferently, “The Grandmaster said… she won't see you!”

Prefecture Lord Li was dumbfounded!

Chapter 148

When Su Ergou and Manager Sun returned to the nunnery, Su Xiaoxiao was counting banknotes at the door languidly.

One, two, three, four, five.

The Prefecture Lord was really generous!

“Sister!”

Su Ergou ran over with a bag full of fruits.

His head was covered in sweat.

Su Xiaoxiao took out a handkerchief. She was used to taking care of the three little ones, so she was very good at wiping sweat.

Su Ergou was stunned. His sister had never treated him like this before. Besides, he was no longer a child.

“Are you not going to wipe it?” Su Xiaoxiao glanced at him and asked.

“Yes, yes, yes!” Su Ergou moved his head over. He could be an adult tomorrow!

Su Xiaoxiao wiped his sweat and threw the handkerchief at him.

Su Ergou borrowed a basket from the nunnery's young masters. “Sister, this fruit is especially sweet. Try it!”

“Where did you pick it? Did they allow it?” Su Xiaoxiao asked.

“Yes!” Su Ergou nodded vigorously. “I only went to pick them because the little masters agreed. I promised to give them some!”

A few ten-year-old nuns were standing behind the door and secretly looking over. Compared to their mature and steady senior sisters, they were still very young and timid.

These words sounded contradictory, but this was really their state.

They didn't dare to talk too much to Su Ergou, but they were bold enough to secretly ask Su Ergou to help them pick fruits.

They wanted to hide it from their senior sisters. After Su Ergou gave them half of the fruit, they ran off with the loot.

“Eat it after washing it,” Su Xiaoxiao said.

“Oh.” Su Ergou entered the front yard of the nunnery and found a water vat to wash the handkerchief and fruits.

Su Xiaoxiao said calmly, “Wash them separately. Don't wipe the fruits with your handkerchief!”

Su Ergou's hand trembled and the fruit fell into the water tank.

He turned to look at his sister and thought to himself, “Does my sister have eyes on the back of her head? She even knows about my little movements!”

Su Xiaoxiao counted the money again in front of Manager Sun.

She did it very slowly, one by one, nonchalantly, exuding the aura of an arrogant master.

“Did you get a good look?” Her lips curved. “How many?”

“Five, five pieces.” Manager Sun swallowed his saliva. Because there was too much silver, he did not care about the little girl's sudden arrogance.

“Where did you get them?” he asked.

Su Xiaoxiao said arrogantly, “Oh. When you weren't around, I did a simple business.”

Manager Sun was dumbfounded.

On the other hand, after Prefecture Lord Li descended the mountain, the steward personally helped him onto the carriage. His expression was ugly; it was even worse than when he was in the Wang family.

The steward witnessed the entire process and was furious.

“That girl is too much! First, she injured Young Master, and now she's here to extort money from you… Didn't Lord Qi say that he would capture her and bring her back to the county office? Could it be a lie?”

Sitting in the carriage, Prefecture Lord Li's face was ashen.

The steward made a chopping gesture. “Sir! In a while… I'll find someone to deal with her!”

Prefecture Lord Li glared at him resentfully. “You only know how to clean up! Didn't you see where she came from just now?”

From… from Grandmaster Hui Jue's meditation room.

The steward's eyebrows twitched!

The steward was stunned. “Sir! She's just a girl from town. How does she know Grandmaster Hui Jue?”

Prefecture Lord Li said angrily, “If you ask me, who should I ask?”

He was really unlucky today. He had suffered so much embarrassment in the Wang family, and he had not been able to see Grandmaster Hui Jue when he came to the nunnery.

It was normal not to be able to see her. After all, he had been here many times, but he had never succeeded.

But this time was different.

Someone else had entered!

This meant that Grandmaster Hui Jue was willing to meet devotees!

“Investigate that girl for me!”

“Yes, my lord!”

When Su Xiaoxiao and the others returned to the inn, it was already very late. Fortunately, the shops in the prefecture were closed later than in town. At this moment, the shops were still open, and there were many people on the streets.

“Sis.”

Su Ergou looked at Su Xiaoxiao.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Put your things away. I'll wait for you downstairs.”

“Alright!”

Su Ergou was so excited that he could fly. Together with Xiaowu and Manager Sun, they carried the bags of things they had brought back from the nunnery upstairs.

Manager Sun was worried about the two children wandering the streets alone.

That girl could not be considered a child, but handling Su Ergou alone was akin to dealing with three brats. He had to watch them closely.

Su Xiaoxiao was never stingy when it came to food. She would buy whatever Su Ergou wanted to eat. Su Ergou was full after shopping and eating all the way.

Chapter 149

“Back to the inn,” Su Xiaoxiao said.

Su Ergou burped. “Sister, it's still early.”

Su Xiaoxiao looked at his round belly. “The last street.”

She wanted to help her silly little brother digest his food.

Manager Sun couldn't walk anymore. With Xiaowu's help, he returned to the inn.

The siblings walked around again. Su Ergou was so happy that he forgot about home. Su Xiaoxiao threatened him with kinship. “You're not listening to me anymore, are you?”

“Oh, I'll listen.” Su Ergou hung his head and reluctantly followed his sister back to the inn.

Su Xiaoxiao's room was not on one side of the street but faced a quiet alley. This alley was rented by the inn. When business was too good, it was used to store the guests' carriages.

It was not the peak season, so the alley was empty.

Su Xiaoxiao washed up and was about to go to bed when she heard a commotion in the alley.

Was someone fighting?

Su Xiaoxiao thought about it. She was too tired today and wasn't interested.

However, the sound of fists hitting flesh was really seductive. In the end, she got up and pushed open the window.

The two men were dressed in dark clothes. If not for the bright moonlight tonight, they would have almost blended into the night.

Su Xiaoxiao leaned out and admired it with interest.

His figure was really good.

His kung fu was really beautiful.

What a cool move!

She wanted to learn that move too!

Wait, why did she feel that one of the figures looked familiar?

Was it Jing Yi?

Su Xiaoxiao calmed herself down and stared at the youth in black holding the nine-section whip.

The other party was using a sword.

The youth lashed out with his whip and wrapped it around the other party's wrist.

Jing Yi was emitting a cold and powerful aura. His kung fu was very good, but his age and experience were disadvantageous.

The black-clothed man opposite him seemed to be a veteran killer. He was not afraid of being entangled. He pulled himself in front of Jing Yi with Jing Yi's whip. With a flick of his wrist, he cut Jing Yi's arm!

When the cold blade sees blood, one must die! The man in black's killing intent suddenly soared!

He was going to take Jing Yi's life!

Su Xiaoxiao picked up the vase beside her and smashed it at the other party's head!

The cold blade reflected Su Xiaoxiao's blatant sneak attack. He raised his sword and smashed the vase that Su Xiaoxiao threw down.

The vase was just a smoke bomb. Su Xiaoxiao held onto the windowsill with one hand and jumped down with a cool posture!

Damn!

She was stuck!

Su Xiaoxiao squelched and hung upside down from the window.

The man in black was stunned.

Jing Yi was speechless.

The window lattice couldn't withstand Su Xiaoxiao's weight and came off the wall with two cracking sounds.

Su Xiaoxiao covered her face and fell.

She could not break her face.

She wanted to be beautiful.

Jing Yi flew up and hugged Su Xiaoxiao, who was free-falling.

His entire back was exposed. In order not to accidentally injure Su Xiaoxiao, he threw away the long sword in his hand.

This was the best time to attack Jing Yi!

The man in black did attack, but for some reason, his sword energy seemed to have missed. It didn't hurt Jing Yi. Instead, it coincidentally shattered the window lattice that trapped Su Xiaoxiao.

Jing Yi and Su Xiaoxiao fell to the ground.

Fortunately, the window lattice had shattered in advance. Otherwise, it would have stabbed into Su Xiaoxiao's flesh.

“Are you alright?” Jing Yi hurriedly asked.

“I'm fine.”

Jing Yi caught her, so it didn't hurt.

The man in black had yet to leave.

Su Xiaoxiao pulled out the slingshot from her waist. With a twist of her fingertips, a stone was loaded onto the slingshot.

She aimed at the man in black and shot out!

The man in black raised his sword to block.

He thought that it was a stone, but who knew that there were three of them!

He stomped his feet, flew up, and spun in the air.

Pa! Pa!

The remaining two stones hit the wall, creating two small holes!

This strength…

Clink!

There was another sound!

The man in black was dumbfounded. Why was there another one?

The stone did not hit the wall. Instead, it hit the man's… butt.

The stone rebounded in a beautiful arc.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Yo, your butt is quite elastic.”

The man in black was stunned.

Su Xiaoxiao grabbed some more “ammunition”. There were stones and peanuts.

The man in black dodged with a dark expression, but he didn't attack Su Xiaoxiao.

“Young Marquis!”

Bai Ze and the others arrived.

The man in black leaped into the air and left.

Bai Ze said coldly, “I'll go after him! You guys protect the Young Marquis!”

“I'll go too!” Hong Luan followed Bai Ze.

The two of them chased after the man in black at full speed.

The remaining two were the guards who wanted to search Su Xiaoxiao's body in the forest.

The one with the square face was called Wu Mu, and the other was called Qing Xuan.

Su Xiaoxiao had been in and out of Wutong Academy several times. She didn't know if they were close or not, but she knew their names.

The two of them were very surprised that Su Xiaoxiao was there.

Su Xiaoxiao ignored them. She looked at Jing Yi's arm and said, “The wound is a little deep and needs to be treated. I have medication in my room.”

As she spoke, she took a few steps forward and turned around when she realized that Jing Yi had not moved.

“What are you waiting for? Let's go and apply the medication!”

They all looked at Jing Yi! The young duke would not go. He hated seeing physicians the most…

When Jing Yi obediently followed her upstairs, everyone was dumbfounded

They wanted their domineering Little Marquis back!

Su Xiaoxiao had brought a first aid kit in case of emergencies. Who would have thought that it would come in handy?

She opened the first aid kit.

Jing Yi didn't know much about medicine and didn't have much interaction with physicians. Therefore, even if he saw the first aid kit that was out of place in this world, he only thought that he didn't know much about it.

Su Xiaoxiao took out saline and iodophor. “Can you take off your clothes? Show your arms.”

Jing Yi's eyelashes trembled slightly, and he looked at her uncomfortably.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “What are you thinking about? I'm a physician. If it's not convenient for you to take it off, I can only cut off your sleeve.”

Jing Yi thought for a moment. “You can cut it.”

Su Xiaoxiao was amazed. Was he so conservative?

Su Xiaoxiao really cut it.

If he didn't care about his clothes, why would she?

Jing Yi said, “You have to sew it up after you're done.”

At his words, Su Xiaoxiao's scissors almost stabbed into his flesh!

Chapter 150

Su Xiaoxiao cleaned his wound thoroughly, making sure to clean both his skin and flesh. In order to catch her, his arm hit the ground and the sand and dust entered his wound.

Jing Yi broke out in a cold sweat. His knuckles turned white, but he didn't make a sound.

“You can endure pain quite well.”

The last person who could tolerate pain was Wei Ting.

Why did she always think of Wei Ting when she saw Jing Yi?

Were these two related? They didn't look alike…

“I'm going to suture you. I've run out of the anesthetic, so I can only stitch you raw. It might hurt a little. Fortunately, there are only two stitches. I'll be as quick as I can.”

Jing Yi nodded.

Su Xiaoxiao didn't overestimate herself and her actions were quick.

Jing Yi stared fixedly at her. Before he could feel any pain, she had already cut off the thread.

“Okay, I'm done.” When Su Xiaoxiao gave Jing Yi a piece of candy, he was speechless.

The candy was wrapped in paper and there was still the warmth of her fingertips.

Jing Yi hated being treated like a child.

“You don't want it?” Su Xiaoxiao asked.

“Yes.” Jing Yi held the candy tightly.

“Don't get wet, don't use too much force, and reduce the movement of your left arm. Don't eat spicy food…” Su Xiaoxiao reminded him of some things to take note of.

“How many days will it take before you remove the stitches?” Jing Yi asked. He had been in the military camp before, so he knew about this kind of suture wound. After it healed, he would have to find a physician to remove the stitches in the flesh.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “I used a protein line for you. You don't have to remove it.”

“Oh.” Jing Yi lowered his eyes.

Su Xiaoxiao wondered, “Why do I feel like you're a little disappointed?”

Jing Yi pinched the candy she gave him and took out a brocade bag. He hesitated for a while before handing it to Su Xiaoxiao.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “You don't have to pay.”

Jing Yi was speechless.

Wu Mu was waiting in the alley with a big square face.

Qing Xuan said nothing.

Wu Mu pondered and said, “Qing Xuan, do you think the Young Marquis… is too careless with that girl? I heard from Bai Ze that at first, he advised his cousin to be wary of her, but in the end, he was the first to let down his guard. He went up with her just like that, isn't he afraid that the girl will do something to him?”

Qing Xuan rolled his eyes at him. “What can she do to the young duke?”

Wu Mu couldn't put his finger on it. He just felt that when the Young Marquis was with that girl, he got attacked easily.

“She… she's a physician! What if she poisons the young duke!”

Wu Mu finally found a reasonable guess and instantly felt that he was extremely smart!

Qing Xuan was about to say something when Jing Yi came over.

“Young Marquis!” Qing Xuan stepped forward and looked at his arm, wanting to ask how his injury was.

Jing Yi said, “She sewed the sleeve.”

Qing Xuan asked, “Who cares about your sleeves?

“Is your injury alright?” Qing Xuan asked.

“Yes, I'm fine,” Jing Yi said.

Qing Xuan looked at him suspiciously. He said that he was fine, but his expression… seemed to tell them that he was stabbed somewhere…

Soon, Bai Ze and Hong Luan returned in exasperation.

“He escaped!” Hong Luan said unhappily.

Bai Ze said, “I'm worried that he'll come back and harm Young Marquis, so we rushed over to warn him. Hong Luan, take care of Young Marquis later, I'll go after him.”

“No need,” Jing Yi said. “You won't be able to catch up.”

Bai Ze frowned.

His Light-body Technique was the best among the four of them.

Jing Yi said lightly, “That person is Yuchi Xiu.”

Bai Ze fell silent.

Qing Xuan was puzzled, “Why did Yuchi Xiu come to Qingzhou? Isn't he in the capital?”

Yuchi Xiu wasn't from Great Zhou, but a Xianbei. He did not serve his country andwas an assassin of the Shadow Pavilion; he would work for whoever could afford the price.

A few years ago, someone had spent a lot of money to buy Old General Wei's head, and Yuchi Xiu had accepted this mission.

But in the end, for some reason, he was actually subdued by the youngest son of the Wei family and became a secret guard of the Wei family.

When it came to the martial arts world, everyone said that this was a huge departure.

Wu Mu suddenly said, “Young Marquis, I have something… I haven't said.”

Jing Yi instructed, “Speak.”

Wu Mu said, “I once saw a person on the official road of Apricot Flower Town. He looked very similar to that person. I thought I was wrong.”

Jing Yi's eyes turned cold. “You mean… the youngest son of the Wei family?”

The four of them were puzzled. The Marquis was younger than that person. Did he have any obsession with calling him the youngest son of the Wei family?

Wu Mu did not deny it. He recalled, “At that time… he was with a village girl. Their actions were very intimate.”

At this point, Wu Mu paused and mustered his courage to look at his young duke.

Chapter 151

“That village girl… was Miss Su!”

Early the next morning, after Su Xiaoxiao and the others had a sumptuous breakfast in the prefecture, they boarded the carriage back to Apricot Flower Town.

Although the business with the Wang family was ruined, extorting 500 taels from Prefecture Lord Li was considered an additional windfall.

In addition, she got to know Grandmaster Hui Jue.

The nun had asked her to visit her next time, so they should be considered acquaintances, right?

Looking at Prefecture Lord Li's attitude towards the nun, Su Xiaoxiao felt that she had to cozy up to this big shot.

On the other side, Jing Yi and the others also returned to Wutong Academy.

The weather had been good for the past few days. Snow had melted everywhere, and the eaves were filled with melted snow.

Young Master Xiang was wearing a fox fur coat and painting in front of the window.

The maidservants secretly looked at him through the curtain of snow and water. They felt that it was difficult to find a man more noble, elegant, and handsome than Young Master Xiang in this world.

“Cousin.” Jing Yi walked in, looking travel-worn.

The maids' eyes suddenly became busy.

Young Master Xiang was a melancholic and honorable sickly beauty, while Young Master Jing was a handsome young man.

They were both good-looking!

Young Master Xiang glanced at him and stopped painting. “Were you injured?”

Jing Yi was stunned. “How did you know?”

He had clearly covered it with his clothes.

Young Master Xiang put down his brush. “You smell like medicine. How did you get injured?”

Jing Yi said, “I met an assassin.”

“Oh?” Young Master Xiang was slightly surprised. “What assassin can hurt you?”

Jing Yi lowered his eyes. “I don't know him. I was just careless. It's just a superficial wound. Cousin, don't mind it.”

Young Master Xiang said thoughtfully, “Looks like our whereabouts have been exposed. We have to end the mission as soon as possible, or else it will attract more and more trouble. Has the mission been completed?”

Jing Yi answered truthfully, “No, that person didn't appear.”

Young Master Xiang frowned slightly. “Jing Yi, I have a bad feeling. It's as if… we've been targeted and all our movements are slower than the other party.”

Jing Yi said solemnly, “Cousin, do you mean that the reason that person didn't appear was because of an accident?”

Young Master Xiang said, “This is just my guess. Did you find anything else in the prefecture?”

“That's it,” Jing Yi said.

Young Master Xiang reminded, “You're injured. Hurry up and go back to your room to rest. I'll get Changping to get a physician for you later.”

Jing Yi said seriously, “I told you it's just a superficial wound. Don't call the physician over. I hate physicians.”

Young Master Xiang smiled. “Ah, I almost forgot. You didn't like to see a physican since you were young. You took care of yourself when you were sick and even when you were injured. Our family has been worried about you a lot. Previously, I was puzzled when I heard you say that Miss Su helped you reattach your arm.”

Jing Yi turned away. “That's because she moved too quickly.”

Young Master Xiang smiled and said, “She did it without informing you?”

“Yes,” Jing Yi admitted with a serious expression.

Jing Yi returned to his room after a while.

Young Master Xiang opened the brocade box on the table and took out a prescription.

It was the prescription that Su Xiaoxiao had left behind.

Looking at the bold handwriting on the prescription, Young Master Xiang's expression darkened bit by bit.

Today was the day Su Xiaoxiao promised to return home. The three little ones went to the village entrance early to wait while Meizi watched them.

Wei Ting did not go. He had something on.

The man in black stood in front of him with a wooden expression. He had maintained this posture for two hours.

Wei Ting glanced at him impatiently. “If you haven't completed the mission, just say it.”

“It's done,” the man in black said numbly. “I didn't let Young Marquis Jing see Bai Xiaosheng.”

Bai Xiaosheng, also known as Know-it-all, was someone who was sought after in the martial world. It was rumored that there was no information in the world that he could not find.

Of course, this guy was just bragging. At most, he was just gathering good information.

Unfortunately, he happened to have a secret relating Wei Ting.

And this secret must not fall into the hands of Jing Yi's party.

The man in black looked sad. “Originally, I had a chance to kill Young Marquis Jing, but… that girl appeared! I can't kill her too, right?”

As he spoke, he exploded!

“To think there is actually a time when I, Yuchi Xiu, ranked second on the Assassin List, wasn't able to kill people! What a great humiliation!”

Wei Ting paused. “You stayed there for two hours because of this?”

“No.” The man in black became sad again.

He covered his butt and said with empty eyes, “My butt hurts… I'm not pure anymore…”

Wei Ting was speechless.

Wei Ting looked at him strangely, his expression indescribable.

“You… were you the one below?”

The man in black was dumbfounded.

At the village entrance, the three little ones had already become three small statues pining after their mother.

Some of the villagers teased them.

An auntie chuckled and said, “Your mother went to the city and won't be coming back.”

“She will come back!” Dahu said.

“Mother agreed!” Xiaohu said.

“Pinky swore!” Xiaohu said.

The auntie continued, “That's a lie. She won't let you follow her. Your mother doesn't want you anymore. She's gone to the city to live a good life.”

Xiaohu stomped his feet. “Yes! She wants Xiaohu! Erhu! Dahu!”

They were so angry. These grannies were so annoying!

Mother would not abandon them!

However, they waited and waited. It was almost dark, but their mother still had not returned.

The pinky swear.

Three days.

It was going to end today.

The three of them began to feel anxious and restless. They walked in circles and scratched their heads with their small hands.

At this moment, a carriage arrived at the village entrance.

The curtain was lifted, and a familiar chubby figure alighted.

The gloominess in their heart seemed to have dissipated in an instant.

The eyes of the three little ones lit up. They flapped their little arms and ran over!

“Mother!”

Mother was back. Mother did not abandon them!

They were not motherless children.

They were their mother's good babies.

Chapter 152

They ran into the soft and familiar embrace, breathing in the breath that made them feel at ease.

“Mother, Xiaohu misses you.”

It was rare for Xiaohu to speak before his two brothers.

Dahu and Erhu also expressed that they also missed their mother very much.

As the saying went, a child with a mother was a treasure. Without a mother, they were three mere stalks of grass.

For the past few days, they had been eating their grandfather's grass every day!

How disgusting!

Su Xiaoxiao patted their heads and rubbed their chubby faces.

They were quite cold.

“Have you been waiting long?” she asked.

Xiao Hu said seriously, “I waited.”

It took Su Xiaoxiao a while to realize that Xiaohu had been waiting since morning.

She was puzzled. Where did he get that accent from?

She had spent three days in the prefecture capital and two days in the carriage. It would be a lie to say that she was not tired. However, when she looked at the three cute little packrats, it was as if… her fatigue had dissipated a lot.

Dahu and Erhu also expressed their longing for their mother.

At the same time, they also complained about the grannies!

Su Xiaoxiao said, “I won't abandon you.”

One could say that these villagers were very malicious, but that was not the case. One could say that they did not have any malicious intentions and they did hurt the child.

“Daya, your Auntie Feng was just joking.” Auntie Liu tried to smooth things over and said to the rest, “Don't make such jokes again in the future.”

They looked at the viciousness between Little Bully Su's eyebrows. How could they dare to disagree?

The happiness of the three little ones returned!

She had only been gone for three days, and the three of them spoke more fluently. Children really changed every day.

“Where's Uncle Ergou?” Erhu asked.

Perhaps because they were both the second child of the family, Erhu often paid attention to this unreliable uncle.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “In the carriage.”

Su Ergou was sleeping soundly in the carriage. Xiaowu shook him for a long time without waking up.

The three little ones quickly climbed into the carriage. They covered their eyes and sighed as they looked at their uncle, who was drooling and sleeping soundly.

They really didn't want to admit that they knew him.

The three little ones took a deep breath, opened their mouths, and shouted, “Sell… snacks!”

Su Ergou opened his eyes. “Come, come, come… Here it comes! How many do you want?”

Hahaha!

The villagers burst out laughing!

There were not many carriages in the countryside. The villagers surrounded the carriage and looked at it for a while. After Su Xiaoxiao left with her brother and the three little ones, they were still looking.

Xiaowu also wanted to break out of the encirclement, but how could his combat strength compare to that of the aunties?

The auntie couldn't stop the carriage, so they stopped him.

“Yo, this carriage is expensive, right?”

“That's a tall horse. Taller than a man.”

This horse had a gentle temperament. At first, the villagers did not dare to approach it. There were a few bold men standing behind it. After obtaining Xiaowu's permission, they touched the horse a few times.

It was different from touching a cow!

“Little brother, where's your carriage?”

“Our manager hired this for the boss.”

“Who's your boss?”

“Miss Su is our boss!”

When the villagers heard this, they were shocked!

Fatty Su had become the boss!

She even hired a manager and a carriage!

“Was… Fatty is that powerful?”

Xiaowu knew that Fatty Su was Miss Su.

He smiled and said, “That's right. If she's not good, can she do business in the prefecture?”

Although they might not have any business in the future, it did not stop him from bragging.

The skill of bragging could be said to have been passed down from Su Xiaoxiao to Manager Sun and then to Xiaowu. It was perfect!

If Manager Sun hadn't warned him in advance, he would have bragged about the glorious feat of the boss extorting the Prefecture Lord.

The villagers were envious of the Su family. The family that used to be the worst was now richer than the Old Master Su's family.

Speaking of that Su family, sigh, things haven't been peaceful recently.

Su Xiaoxiao was home.

Father Su finally had his daughter back. His heart, which had been hanging in the air for three days, relaxed as tears streamed down his face. “Daughter! You're finally back!”

Little Wu and Liu Ping were in the backyard counting the ingredients they needed for tomorrow. When they heard the commotion, they hurriedly put down their work and walked out.

“Daya!” Little Wu's eyes lit up.

Liu Ping muttered, “Wifey, you don't even look at me like that!”

“Father, Sister Wu, Brother Liu.” Su Xiaoxiao greeted everyone. “Eh? Where's Wei Ting?”

“He's in the house.” Su Cheng shouted toward the small east room, “Son-in-law! Daya is back!”

Wei Ting opened the door and walked out of the east room with a cold expression on his face.

Su Xiaoxiao was used to his ice-cold face. If he really smiled at her one day, she would think that she had seen a ghost.

However, the feeling of having a whole family… was not bad.

Little Wu said to her eldest daughter, “Meizi, bring your sister out to play.”

“Yes!” Da Meizi went to the backyard to look for her sister, who was sitting on a small stool and eating the shortbread obediently. The two sisters went to play together.

The three little ones also knew that the parents were going to talk about serious matters. They were very sensible and did not make a fuss. They went next door to look for Niudan.

There was a lot of good stuff today. When he saw the three little kids coming over, he immediately showed off.

“I have a new slingshot! You don't!”

Dahu said, “My mother is back.”

“So what if your mother is back? Is she as good as my new slingshot?”

Niudan tried bragging again, “I, I have sesame candy! I just bought it!”

Xiaohu said, “My mother is back.”

Niudan insisted, “My, my, my, my father made me a top!”

Xiao Hu said proudly, “My mother is back, hehe!”

Awesome.

Ah! He was bragging in vain!

The family sat down in the central room and held an informal family meeting.

Su Xiaoxiao placed a banknote worth 100 taels on the table. The entire family was dumbfounded.

Wasn't it forty-five taels?

Why, why was it so much?

Su Xiaoxiao continued to dig.

Two, three, four, five!

A string on Father Su's head snapped!

He looked at his chubby daughter with a complicated expression. “Daughter, you… did you go to the prefecture capital to rob?”

Little Wu and Liu Ping's gazes shifted from the banknotes to Su Xiaoxiao's face.

Did she really resort to robbery?

It was five hundred taels!

How many villages had she robbed?

Su Xiaoxiao sighed, “Father, what are you talking about? We've already retired. How can I rob others?”

Little Wu and Liu Ping heaved a sigh of relief.

The next second, they heard Su Xiaoxiao say, “I did run some errands for someone and asked for some money.”

The two of them were puzzled

Father Su asked in a daze, “Who did you extort?”

Su Xiaoxiao waved her hand casually. “It's just a prefecture lord. No, I'm not extorting!”

Duang!

Father Su fell off his chair!

Chapter 153

Su Xiaoxiao's trip to the prefecture capital had earned her five hundred taels. This was a sure thing.

One did not ask where heroes came from, and one did not ask how a person's money was obtained!

Anyway, if she got it, it would be hers!

Su Xiaoxiao patted her father's shoulder. “Dad, calm down. I've surpassed you. You should be happy.”

“That's right. You've extorted the prefecture lord. I'm so happy!”

“I've only been a village tyrant for so many years, but you've become a little bully in the prefecture city after just one trip!”

Father Su was about to cry.

The only calm person in the room was Wei Ting.

This guy rarely lost control of his expression. Su Xiaoxiao didn't know if he was really calm or indifferent to her matters.

“By the way, how's business these days I've been away?”

This was what Su Xiaoxiao was most concerned about.

“Your Sister Wu did well,” Father Su said.

He did not treat Little Wu as an outsider.

In fact, what Little Wu did was not only not bad, but it was also quite good for Su Ji's reputation.

In the beginning, Su Xiaoxiao only asked her to make three snacks. The braised meat business was made as a matter of convenience, so there was no need for too much.

Unexpectedly, Little Wu made the Ergou pancakes the next day and increased the production.

According to Su Xiaoxiao's original plan, she was to produce 100 pancakes a day, 50 pancakes for the Academy, and no more than 30 catties of braised meat.

Little Wu doubled the production. The price was that she was very tired and visibly haggard.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Didn't I tell you not to work so hard?”

Madam Wu lowered her head and said softly, “I-I didn't want to embarrass you.”

Ever since she was young, no one had trusted her. Although her family had treated her well, they did not think that a girl was useful.

Only Daya believed in her and was willing to hand such a heavy burden to her.

She wondered if this was the self-worth that Daya had mentioned.

She… felt her worth.

Not only could she live as a wife, a mother, and a daughter-in-law, but she could also work like a man.

She seemed to have started a new life.

She did not want to let Daya down.

Su Xiaoxiao said sincerely, “Sister Wu, you've done well. You're even better than I thought.”

Madam Wu's eyes lit up.

Liu Ping's heart ached again. He reflected that his wife was not even so happy during their wedding.

If production increased, sales would also be a problem.

In fact, for the past few days, sales were a bigger problem.

At the very least, Little Wu was trained. Father Su… had never done sales.

He had only been a bodyguard for a few days.

The reason why Su Xiaoxiao insisted on letting Father Su sell it was that the regular customers knew him. When they saw him, they knew that it was indeed Su Ji's stall.

“All sold out! Not a single one left!” Father Su said proudly.

“Were they sold out every day?” Su Xiaoxiao asked.

“That's right!” Father Su raised his eyebrows.

Su Xiaoxiao was surprised. “Father, you're amazing!”

Wei Ting took a sip of tea indifferently.

Liu Ping smiled and said, “Mr. Wei also went!”

Su Xiaoxiao's face was serious. “Father, his legs aren't good. Why did you drag him to town?”

Father Su coughed lightly. “Ahem! There's a donkey cart. He doesn't have to walk by himself.”

Su Xiaoxiao imagined the extremely handsome Wei Ting sitting on the donkey cart with a small stool.

She couldn't bear to look at him…

Father Su was a little prideful. He was a little reluctant to sell pancakes.

With the principle of never embarrassing himself alone, he decisively took advantage of his son-in-law!

Unlike farming, Wei Ting had made the right decision to come this time.

He didn't need to do anything. He just had to sit there. That suffocatingly handsome face created a higher turnout than Su Xiaoxiao, a 200-pound fatty.

Wei Ting was good-looking and appealed to young and old alike. Aunts and women swarmed over like ferocious beasts, and the young girls were not any less aggressive.

In just three days, Wei Ting was given the nickname “Pancake Man Xi Shi”.

What a dark history!

Su Xiaoxiao brought gifts for everyone from the prefecture.

For the Meizi sisters, there was a jar of local preserved meat and two new outfits. Little Wu's was a silk handkerchief embroidered with winter plums.

She remembered that Little Wu had a similar handkerchief and had always kept it. When they split up, it was confiscated by Big Wu.

Little Wu's eyes turned red.

Daya cared about people, but she never expressed her feelings in words.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Brother Liu, this is for you.”

Liu Ping was stunned. “Me too?”

The credit for the past few days seemed to be all on Little Wu and Wei Ting, but in fact, Liu Ping's credit could not go unnoticed.

Who said that transportation was not important? To receive business, they had to travel to so many places. Nothing could go wrong in between.

It was not easy for Liu Ping either.

Liu Ping took it and sniffed it. “It smells so good. It's Shaodaozi!”

Liu Ping did not have any other hobbies. He only liked to drink a little wine occasionally, especially when it came to Shaodaozi. Coincidentally, there was an old wine cellar in the prefecture city. Shaodaozi was his family's trademark.

Su Cheng reminded, “You can drink, but don't be an alcoholic.”

Liu Ping patted his chest. “Don't worry, I won't go overboard!”

Su Xiaoxiao took out a pair of brocade boxes from her bag. “Father, your tea leaves!”

These were tea leaves given by Grandmaster Hui Jue. They were much better than the ones sold in ordinary shops!

The three little ones happily claimed three boxes of dried meat, three pairs of small shoes, three sets of new clothes, and three days' worth of kisses, hugs, and lifts!

They were so happy!

Wei Ting was the only one left in the family. His aura was a little low.

He stood up calmly. “I'll go back to my room first.”

Everyone looked at Wei Ting and then at Su Xiaoxiao.

Father Su winked at her.

“What?” Su Xiaoxiao asked knowingly.

Father Su said, “What's the situation?”

Su Xiaoxiao crossed her arms. “He didn't even pick me up at the village entrance!”

Father Su was speechless.

Knock knock knock!

There was a knock on the door.

Wei Ting threw the newly written calligraphy aside indifferently. His eyes were a little cold and dry.

Su Xiaoxiao waited for a long time, but Wei Ting did not say anything.

Ha, this was her own room, why would she need to knock on the door?

Su Xiaoxiao pushed the door open.

“Come in.” Almost at the same time, Wei Ting spoke.

Su Xiaoxiao closed the door again! Then, she slowly pushed it open and walked in calmly.

She came to Wei Ting's side like a proud little fat peacock. She looked up at the ceiling and placed a brocade box on the table.

“Here.”

Wei Ting asked coldly, “To whom?”

Su Xiaoxiao put her hands on her hips. “Who else is in this room?”

Wei Ting's expression did not change at all. He still had a cold expression, but the air of frustration around him had disappeared.

He stretched out his slender fingers and casually opened the brocade box.

It was a jade hair crown.

Su Xiaoxiao said calmly, “It's a gift. Take it or leave it.”

Wei Ting's eyes moved slightly.

Su Xiaoxiao turned her head and saw the crumpled paper on the table.

“Eh? What's that?” She reached for it.

“Nothing!” Wei Ting grabbed the paper ball first.

“Let me take a look!” Su Xiaoxiao took the paper ball from his hand and unfolded it. It was a few handwritten notes.

She had practiced calligraphy with Su Ergou to copy his calligraphy.

Did he… write a new one for them to copy?

To be precise, he wanted Su Ergou to copy it. Su Xiaoxiao was confident that she had hidden her actions well!

Su Xiaoxiao said, “It's written so well, why did you throw it away? What a pity.”

She lovingly unfolded the paper ball, laid it on the table, and pressed it down with her hand again and again.

Wei Ting frowned as he watched her carefully and seriously deal with a few crumpled paper balls. His eyes suddenly became a little cold.

Wei Ting took back the paper ball. “There were mistakes in it, I'll write a new one!”

Chapter 154

During the three days when Su Xiaoxiao was not at home, Father Su exerted his top-notch culinary skills and successfully fed Wei Ting and the three little ones until they became recluses.

Father Su's heart ached for his daughter, who had been rushing all day. He decided to cook again tonight.

The three little ones sensibly did not object.

The family was prepared to be poisoned by Father Su's dark culinary skills again, but Old Li unexpectedly came.

Today, Li Dayong went to the back of the mountain to cut firewood and accidentally caught two fat and big pheasants.

The Li family killed chickens tonight and asked the Su family to go over for dinner.

Su Cheng said politely, “Uncle Li, how can I accept this?”

Old Li quickly said, “Daya is our Li Family's savior. Don't…”

Before he could finish speaking, Su Cheng, Su Ergou, and the three little ones had already come out of the house.

The three little ones lined up and waited for food!

When Madam Qian cooked, she originally thought about not eating one and keeping it to sell in town. However, when she thought about how there were many people tonight, she made up her mind and stewed both chickens.

The debt of gratitude was not something that two chickens could repay. Moreover, their family members could also eat.

Halfway through, Su Xiaoxiao came in with a basket.

Mdm Qian looked at her in confusion.

Su Xiaoxiao removed the dry cloth covering the basket and took out the braised meat and pork ribs, with the intent to let Aunt Qian stew them together.

Madam Qian said, “We have two chickens! There's enough to eat!”

Su Xiaoxiao: “You don't know anything about the appetite of a cook.”

Madam Qian refused no matter what. How could she invite someone over for a meal and let her guest bring meat over?

Su Xiaoxiao didn't say anything. She picked up the knife and chopped the braised pork ribs before placing them into the pot.

Old Li also invited the village head over. Tonight, the few men would have a drink or two.

Madam Qian stewed two pots of meat dishes.

One pot was chewy, and the men ate it with wine. The other pot was for the children and Mrs. Zhao. The stew was very soft.

Little Mrs. Zhao ate in her room during her confinement period.

Su Xiaoxiao always ate at the table. The Su family didn't have such strange rules.

Madam Qian accompanied the guests to the table.

Their table was too high for the children to reach. The other table could not accommodate them either, so they set up a small table separately.

The eldest granddaughter, Qiuni, brought the little boys to eat and even thoughtfully picked up food for them.

Su Xiaoxiao sat between Madam Qian and Wei Ting.

She was controlling her diet and eating not eating much.

Madam Qian thought that she was too embarrassed to pick up food, so she grabbed the iron ladle in the pot and scooped a full ladleful for her. She gave Su Xiaoxiao all the fattest and most meaty chicken pieces.

Madam Qian was being kind. It was rare for country bumpkins to see meat and fish. The lean meat was too dry. Not only was this kind of fat fragrant, but it was also filling.

Su Xiaoxiao was in a dilemma because she knew that Madam Qian was being kind.

If she ate it and she would gain ten pounds in one bite.

If she didn't eat it, it would feel like a snub.

She looked at her father for help.

Father Su was drinking with the village head and Old Li.

“Hello, brothers… Five champions… Six, six, nine, nine… Eight horses…”

They were drunk after playing drinking games and their seniority was messed up!

Su Xiaoxiao looked at Su Ergou.

Su Ergou buried his head in his food, completely ignoring his sister's death stare.

Su Xiaoxiao wondered, “Where's the tacit understanding that blood is thicker than water?”

Su Xiaoxiao sighed. It seemed like she had lost weight for nothing.

Suddenly, Wei Ting quietly reached over with his chopsticks and picked up the fattest pieces of chicken in her bowl. He ate them very naturally.

Su Xiaoxiao blinked and was dumbfounded.

Madam Qian scooped another spoonful for Su Xiaoxiao, and Wei Ting picked out the fat inside to eat.

Su Xiaoxiao lowered her eyes and ate the vegetables. Wei Ting didn't eat fatty meat at home…

Madam Qian was unhappy. “Why do you always take the food in Daya's bowl? Is the food in Daya's bowl more fragrant?”

“No…” Su Xiaoxiao tried to explain.

Wei Ting: “Yes.”

Su Xiaoxiao glared at him.

Do you know what Auntie Qian asked you?

Mother Qian could not hold it in and smiled.

After a full meal, the men drank until they staggered. Li Dayong first carried the village head back, then brought Su Cheng back with Su Ergou.

Why did Su Cheng have two people supporting him? Wasn't it because he was more drunk?

One moment, he was practicing boxing, and the next moment, he was practicing sword techniques… with the little wooden swords of the three little ones.

The three little ones followed suit.

Su Xiaoxiao and Wei Ting followed behind them unhurriedly.

The moonlight was beautiful tonight, reflecting the light reflected in the snow.

The ground was wet from melting snow for the past few days.

“Be careful.” Su Xiaoxiao said, “Don't fall again.”

Wei Ting hummed nonchalantly.

Due to his actions tonight, Su Xiaoxiao didn't mind his cold face.

She coughed lightly and said, “Before I went to the prefecture, I told you that I would return the token to you. I'm serious. It's just that I left it somewhere… I can't retrieve it…”

Wei Ting frowned slightly and quickly regained his cold expression.

Su Xiaoxiao wasn't sure if he believed her or not. Just as she was hesitating to correct her words to be more precise, there was a clattering sound from the Su family.

Su Xiaoxiao looked at the lights of the Su family and said to Wei Ting, “Go back first. I'll go check on Yu Niang.”

After she left, a shadow separated from the night and quietly came behind Wei Ting.

His movements were so light that others would not be able to sense it.

Wei Ting said calmly, “What are you doing now?”

Yuchi Xiu sighed. “I've been discovered again. Lord, how did you find out? How did I expose myself? Tell me, I'll change.”

Wei Ting said, “You're living.”

Yuchi Xiu was speechless.

Yuchi Xiu couldn't argue with Wei Ting, so after a bit of self-pity, he decisively changed the topic. “Sir, that girl said just now that she would return the Commander's Seal to you. Is that true?”

Wei Ting's eyes turned cold. “I don't know.”

Yuchi Xiu said, “If it's true, that's great! When we get back the Commander's Seal, we can immediately return to the capital!”

He did not want to stay in this lousy place anymore!

His ass.

His purity…

Su Xiaoxiao heard Su Yuniang's cries and rushed over.

The Su family's door was tightly shut from the inside.

She banged on the door a few times, but no one came to open it.

In Su Yuniang's house, the entire family was in an uproar. It was no wonder that they could not hear the knocking on the door.

“Give me back my baby!”

It was Su Yuniang's choked voice.

Su Can took a step back with the child in his arms. Su Yuniang pounced forward but was stopped by Su Dalang and Su Erlang.

Su Dalang said earnestly, “Sister! Stop fooling around! The child belongs to the Zheng family. It's only right for us to send the child back! We can't keep raising the Zheng family's child!”

Su Yuniang refuted, “I gave birth to the child after ten months of pregnancy! It's a piece of flesh that fell from my body! How did it become the Zheng family's?! The child ate my food and drank my water. Did it cost you one copper coin? I gave the family twenty taels! Can't it support us?!”

Su Dalang avoided the main point. “This child's surname is Zheng! She's from the Zheng family!”

When she was half-dead from the quack's treatment, her elder brother beat the quack up. She was so touched at that time, but at this moment, she was so disappointed.

Su Yuniang gritted her teeth and said, “Return the child to me! Otherwise, I'll fight you to the death!”

“Su Yuniang!” Old Master Su called her name.

This was a very strict form of address.

Su Yuniang looked at Old Master Su pleadingly, trying to awaken the last bit of the relationship between the two of them.

“Grandpa, ask Eldest Brother to return the child to me. I worked hard to give birth to the child. It's mine…”

Old Master Su said, “Since you can't bear to part with your child, go back to the Zheng family with her.”

Su Yuniang smiled coldly. “You've offended the Zheng family, so you want to use me to repay your debt? I wasn't the one who caused the injury! If you have the ability, give Su Jinniang to the Zheng family as compensation!”

Su Erlang said coldly, “How dare you mention Cripple Feng! If you hadn't refused to return to the Zheng family, would Cripple Feng have stayed at home?”

These words were exactly the same as Su Jinniang's.

They were really biological siblings.

Su Yuniang's heart turned cold. She had completely given up on this family.

She had once thought that her family was her refuge. She was too naive.

A married daughter was like spilled water. From the moment she sat in the bridal sedan, she was already an outsider.

“In order to shut Cripple Feng and Zheng Lanxiu up, you used me to fill in the blanks. Good, good, very good.”

Su Yuniang suddenly smiled.

She laughed crazily.

She stumbled out of the room.

No one stopped her.

They thought that she had finally thought it through and was willing to return to the Zheng family.

At this moment, something unexpected happened!

Su Yuniang suddenly dashed forward to bang her head against the ancestral altar!

Madam Fang: “Yuniang!”

“Sister!”

No one had expected this change. They wanted to stop it, but they were squeezed at the door!

It was too late… Yuniang was about to crash into it…

With a loud clang, the Su family's door was kicked open!

Chapter 155

Su Xiaoxiao was at the door, too far away from the table. It was too late to catch Su Yuniang.

At the critical moment, she suddenly took out the dagger that Wei Ting had given her and threw it at Su Yuniang's calf along with the scabbard!

The dagger accurately hit Su Yuniang's calf; her legs went limp and she fell to the ground!

Su Xiaoxiao controlled her strength so that Su Yuniang would not be injured. Su Yuniang got up and planned to kill herself again.

Su Xiaoxiao quickly walked behind her and grabbed her arm!

“Let go!” Su Yuniang shouted without turning around.

After saying that, she realized that the feeling on her arm was not right.

She turned her head and saw a familiar face through her blurry eyes.

The grievance in her heart suddenly multiplied, and she burst into tears!

“Daya! They took my baby!”

This was the first time Su Yuniang showed her weakness in front of Su Xiaoxiao.

Su Xiaoxiao's eyes turned cold. She said to the sobbing Su Yuniang, “Got it. Leave it to me.”

“Leave it to me.” It was light, but it weighed a thousand pounds.

Su Yuniang's mixed emotions were suddenly greatly comforted.

She felt a sense of security, and her heavy heart gradually relaxed.

She wasn't certain when it happened but the person she trusted the most was no longer her family, nor the person she slept with, but this little fat girl who was not related to her by blood.

Su Yuniang choked and nodded.

Su Xiaoxiao turned around and looked coldly at the Su family who finally squeezed out of the house. She said word by word, “Give me the child.”

Su Dalang shouted, “Su Daya, don't go overboard! This is our Su family's business! It has nothing to do with you!”

Su Xiaoxiao pulled her sleeve and rolled it up. “I'll say it one last time. Give me the child.”

What was this girl trying to do?

Was she planning to come to the Su family to fight again?

“Don't hurt the child,” Su Yuniang whispered behind her.

“Okay.” Su Xiaoxiao replied casually. Her sleeves were rolled up to her wrist, revealing a fair wrist.

It wasn't one of those skinny wrists. It had a hint of plumpness. Like high-quality cream, it was so white in the dim yellow night that it was a little eye-catching.

Su Dalang said coldly, “Su Daya, don't think that we're afraid of you just because we let you leave the last time! If you continue to be a busybody, don't blame us for being impolite!”

“Are you done talking?” Su Xiaoxiao asked.

Su Dalang choked. An ominous feeling suddenly surged in his heart.

Su Daya was clearly very calm, but why did he feel that she was much more dangerous than last time?

As it turned out, his instincts were right.

Su Xiaoxiao didn't waste her breath on him. She walked forward and grabbed his collar, pulling him over!

Su Dalang had no time to react at all. He only felt his vision blur and his feet stagger. By the time he felt the pain in his knee, he was already pressed to the ground by Su Daya!

“Dalang!” Madam Fang exclaimed.

“Brother!” Su Erlang took a step forward.

Everyone's expression changed.

Su Jinniang stood behind everyone and watched this scene from afar. Her hair stood on end.

Su Daya was not joking. She really dared to beat him up.

Old Master Su's face turned as black as charcoal. “Su Daya!”

Su Xiaoxiao was not afraid of him. She looked at him arrogantly. “Do you want me to repeat myself? If I repeat myself, I'll break one of his bones!”

With that, she raised her foot to stomp on Su Dalang's ribs!

“Stop!”

Old Master Su shouted, “You can have the child!”

Su Xiaoxiao moved her foot an inch and stepped on the small stool beside Su Dalang.

The small stool shattered into pieces with a crack!

When everyone saw this scene, they felt a lingering fear in their hearts. Su Daya was serious. If this kick landed on Su Dalang… the consequences would be unimaginable.

Su Xiaoxiao looked coldly at Su Can behind Old Master Su. “Do you want to have a go?”

Su Can shivered and quickly carried the child over.

Su Xiaoxiao took the child.

She held the baby in one hand and grabbed Su Yuniang's wrist with the other. Then she brought the mother and daughter out of the Su family without looking back.

In the night, Yuchi Xiu, who had witnessed the entire process, clicked his tongue repeatedly. “Tsk, tsk, tsk. How ruthless. Lord, did you really marry into the family willingly and disguised your identity? Why do I feel like you were kidnapped?”

Everyone in this family was good at fighting. None of them were normal people, okay?

Of course, Wei Ting would not admit that he was captured by the Su family.

Chapter 156

Did he not care about his reputation?

Wei Ting arrived late after Su Xiaoxiao and Su Yuniang entered.

Su Xiaoxiao was puzzled. “Huh? Didn't you leave first? Why are you behind me?”

Wei Ting pointed at his leg and said confidently, “I'm lame and walk slowly.”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Then I didn't see you either.”

“I saw you. You ignored me,” a certain someone lied through his teeth.

Su Xiaoxiao: “Oh.”

She had a murderous aura and would not bring it into the house.

She handed the child to Su Yuniang and turned to Wei Ting. “Yuniang and the child will stay with us for a few days.”

Su Yuniang looked at Wei Ting.

She was not an ignorant young lady. She had a certain level of judgment and could tell that Wei Ting was not an ordinary person.

It had nothing to do with his appearance, but with his words, actions, and temperament.

Shallow Water Village was a very rich village. As the daughter-in-law of the village head's family, she could often interact with the squires in town. Wei Ting had an arrogance and nobility that the squires did not have.

A proud son of heaven.

The phrase came to her as she reflected.

Wei Ting nodded gently at Su Yuniang. “Make yourself at home. Don't stand on ceremony.”

Su Xiaoxiao blinked. Aiya, this guy can speak human language!

Wei Ting said to Su Xiaoxiao, “I'll go talk to Father and ask Ergou to go to Father's place tonight and free up Ergou's room?”

There were a total of four rooms in the house. One was a small warm nest for the pony, one belonged to Father Su, one belonged to Su Ergou, and the east room belonged to Wei Ting and Su Xiaoxiao.

Su Xiaoxiao's original plan was for Wei Ying to go to Su Ergou's room and she would squeeze in with Yu Niang for a few days.

As soon as Wei Ting finished speaking, he probably realized that this decision was a little inappropriate. He frowned and tried to salvage the situation. “Xiaohu and the other two don't sleep well.”

That was right. After returning from the prefecture capital, the three little ones resolutely returned to Su Xiaoxiao's room to make up for the three days of deficiency.

If Su Yuniang slept with her, they would be two adults and four children. It was indeed a little crowded.

Su Yuniang said, “Then I'll have to trouble you.”

Su Xiaoxiao coughed lightly. “It's no trouble.”

Wei Ting went to the backyard to look for Su Cheng, who was cultivating.

Su Yuniang said to Su Xiaoxiao, “Daya, your husband is a good person.”

Su Xiaoxiao raised her eyebrows. “Really?”

Forget it. He showed her respect in front of her friends, so she would not expose how much he usually deserved a beating.

Su Xiaoxiao paused. “My family and I…”

Su Yuniang said, “Just tell me the truth.”

At Old Su's house, Su Yuniang's departure made the already tense atmosphere at home worse.

Mdm Fang's heart ached for her daughter, but she did not dare to disobey Old Master Su. She could only stand in the corner and secretly wipe her tears.

Su Can said sheepishly, “This child, Yu Niang, has been different since she was young… She can't play with those young ladies…”

Su Yuniang had the mentality of a man, but unfortunately, she was a woman.

Back then, even the boys in the village did not dare to fight with Fatty Su. Su Yuniang was only three years older than Fatty Su, but she was actually thin and small. It was obvious that she was not Fatty Su's match.

Even so, Su Yuniang still provoked Fatty Su.

If there was no Fatty Su in the village, Su Yuniang would be the boldest.

However, no matter how bold she was, she was still a woman. She had to get married and take care of her husband and children.

For the past three years, Su Yuniang had not had any children in her in-laws' house but was still doing well. It could be seen that she was capable.

However, perhaps she was too capable and forgot her own worth. She went against her in-laws and her maternal family and refused to listen to anyone.

Su Can said, “Dad, what do you think… we should do about this? Tomorrow, the entire village will know that Yuniang is staying with the Su family. The villagers will gossip. We can't afford to be disgraced. Alas, if she was half as obedient as Jinniang, she wouldn't have caused such a scene!”

Su Jinniang was in the room. As she handed Madam Fang a handkerchief, she felt a sense of satisfaction.

Old Master Su's expression was solemn. After pondering for a while, he said, “If anyone asks, tell them that Yuniang's health is not good and she went to the Su family to recuperate.”

Fatty Su had learned medicine and had been coming to the Su family to treat Su Yuniang's illness recently. This reason was still acceptable.

At Little Su's house, Su Xiaoxiao and Su Ergou cleaned up the room.

The countryside was not as particular as the city. It was good enough to have an empty room with clean bedding.

The two of them left in a hurry. Since Su Yuniang and the child's diapers were not brought out, Su Xiaoxiao went to the Su family's house again with a butcher knife.

Su Cheng and Su Ergou also brought along a butcher knife each.

The Su family was so frightened that they did not even dare to breathe loudly.

Su Xiaoxiao asked Madam Fang to pack up a few sets of clothes before the family swaggered away.

Old Master Su's family was so angry that they rolled their eyes!

At night, Su Yuniang finished washing up and sat under the blanket. The baby beside her was sleeping soundly.

She felt a long-lost peace in the Su family.

“Daya, thank you for today. Also, thank your father for me.”

As the head of the family, if Su Cheng did not agree… In fact, it was only right for Su Cheng to disagree. After all, Su Yuniang's identity was too awkward. Who would be willing to get involved in her mess?

But she could tell that this family was really united.

No matter who made the decision, the others would spare no effort to respond.

She used to think that her family was the same.

After experiencing so many things, she finally understood that her family's harmony was just an illusion. Everyone's hearts had never really been together.

Su Xiaoxiao nodded and said, “If you feel bad, you can pay for food.”

Su Yuniang was stunned. Why did Daya always have the ability to interrupt her emotions?

Su Yuniang took a deep breath. She was used to being in tune with her emotions.

She said, “Aren't you going to ask me what I plan to do in the future?”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Have you thought about it?”

Su Yuniang: “No.”

Su Xiaoxiao: “Then why should I ask?”

She was really asking for a beating! Who did she learn it from?

In the east room, Wei Ting sneezed for no reason!

Su Xiaoxiao made Su Yuniang angry, but it dispelled her unhappiness with her family.

Her anger had subsided!

She pondered and said, “Daya, what if… I mean if… I don't want to go back to the Zheng family?”

Su Xiaoxiao put her clothes in the cabinet. “Then you won't go back.”

She smiled bitterly. “Wouldn't you think a woman like me would be scandalous?”

Su Xiaoxiao had an incredulous expression. “Su Yuniang, don't you think too highly of yourself? You haven't cheated on the Zheng family five or six times, and you still have the cheek to say that you're immoral? Is the threshold for immoral now so low?”

Su Yuniang was stunned.

Su Yuniang asked, “If it were you, what would you do?”

Su Xiaoxiao said fiercely, “Kill him!”

Su Yuniang was speechless again.

Too many things had happened that night. Su Yuniang had fallen out with her family and was homeless.

She should not have been able to sleep, but she quickly fell asleep.

The next day, Su Xiaoxiao got up to make snacks.

Su Yuniang came to the kitchen with her clothes on.

The starlight and scattered snow reflected on her thin face.

She was very weak, but her eyes were unprecedentedly firm. “Daya, I've thought it through. I want to leave the Zheng family.”

Su Xiaoxiao was not too surprised.

She put down the half-kneaded dough. “I'm only going to ask you this once. Are you sure?”

Su Yuniang pinched her fingers and nodded. “I'm sure. I'll ask Zheng Yuanbo for the divorce letter.”

In the Great Zhou Dynasty, women would only be divorced by their in-laws if they committed seven mistakes.

Su Yuniang did not make any mistakes. The Zheng family could not divorce her unless she brought it up herself.

However, regardless of whether she brought up herself, it was not a glorious thing to be divorced. In the future, she might be criticized by others for the rest of her life and be unable to raise her head.

However, she was not afraid of these. She would rather be condemned by everyone than return to that man's side!

This was no small matter.

Su Xiaoxiao only said one word to her, “Okay.”

Chapter 157

Zheng Lanxiu did not have a comfortable time.

First, there was the matter with the family of her younger brother, Zheng Yuanbo. One of them was Su Yuniang, who refused to return to the Zheng family, and the other was Ah Xiang, who kept urging Zheng Yuanbo not to bring Su Yuniang back, causing the family to be in a foul mood.

Then there was Cripple Feng's leg.

Ever since he was injured, she had consulted all the physicians in town. Not only did his injuries not improve at all, but they also worsened.

In the beginning, it was said that his leg might be a little lame. Later, the physician gave her the bottom line. He would be lucky to get away with the lameness. If Cripple Feng's injuries worsened, he could only amputate his leg. Otherwise, if the infection was too serious, Cripple Feng would not even be able to survive.

Zheng Lanxiu was a strong woman.

Her mother passed away early, and as the eldest sister, she was like a matriarch. She raised her younger sisters with Zheng Yuanbo. Later on, her father married and filled the house, but his new family did not gain any advantage from her.

However, no matter how domineering she was to the outside world, some concepts were deeply rooted in her bones. Feng Zhiwei was her man and the root of her life. She could not allow anything to happen to Feng Zhiwei.

She had already gone to the Su family to make a fuss.

She had also taught Su Jinniang a lesson. She pressed her to the ground and slapped her several times! Although Su Jinniang did not admit that she did it on purpose, she would not listen. She needed someone to vent her anger on.

But after venting, she fell into deep panic and confusion.

Was Cripple Feng really going to have to amputate one leg?

Could he still live after that?

The physician could not guarantee that he would live, but if he did not cut it off, he would definitely not survive…

“Zheng Lanxiu.”

A cold voice interrupted Zheng Lanxiu's thoughts.

Zheng Lanxiu came back to her senses and realized that the water she had been fetching for a long time had all been spilled onto the ground. There was not a single drop in the bucket.

She turned to look at the person who called her. A complicated look flashed across her eyes. “It's you?”

Su Xiaoxiao nodded. “It's me.”

Zheng Lanxiu had mixed feelings about Su Xiaoxiao. Cripple Feng had gone after Su Xiaoxiao to take advantage of her, but Cripple Feng had also escaped danger because of Su Xiaoxiao…

She had no right to blame Su Xiaoxiao, but she would be jealous too. She was jealous that her husband had taken a fancy to another woman.

Su Xiaoxiao didn't have time to care about Zheng Lanxiu's emotions. She went straight to the point. “Do you want to save Cripple Feng?”

Zheng Lanxiu was stunned.

Su Xiaoxiao brushed the snow off her body.

From Apricot Flower Village to Shallow Water Village, she had to pass through a forest on the way. The temperature in the forest was low, and the snow that remained had fallen on her shoulders.

She kept it short. “If you want to save him, I can.”

Zheng Lanxiu frowned. “What do you mean?”

Su Xiaoxiao said calmly, “Literally, I can treat Cripple Feng's injury, and only I can. Even if you go to the prefecture or the capital, you won't be able to find a physician who can save his leg.”

Zheng Lanxiu really wanted to go to the prefectural city to hire a famous physician.

Wait, what did this girl say?

Zheng Lanxiu's pupils constricted. “Can you save his leg?”

The physician of Rong'en Hall could at most save his life, but his leg would definitely not be saved. Moreover, he only had a 50% chance of survival.

Su Xiaoxiao said casually, “Yes.”

Zheng Lanxiu's first reaction was disbelief, but then she remembered that Su Yuniang had suggested that she invite Su Daya over when Cripple Feng had first gotten into trouble.

Su Yuniang had lost half her life after giving birth. It was Su Daya who had saved her.

Could it be… that all of this was real?

Did Su Daya really know medicine? Was she just lucky?

Su Xiaoxiao said, “You don't have to be in a hurry to reply to me. Once you've thought it through, go to the Su family to look for me. However, I have to remind you that while I can afford to wait, Cripple Feng's leg… might not. If this drags on, perhaps even I will have to saw off his leg.”

Zheng Lanxiu clenched her fists.

Should she trust Su Daya?

She… could she gamble with Cripple Feng's life?

Su Xiaoxiao turned around and left without any intention of forcing her.

Zheng Lanxiu looked at her calm and indifferent figure as she left. For some reason, an indescribable feeling suddenly surged in her heart.

It was as if this person had an innately convincing aura.

Was this still the same Su Daya?

Zheng Lanxiu stopped her. “How much do you want?”

Su Xiaoxiao stopped in her tracks. “The letter for releasing the wife.”

Zheng Lanxiu frowned. “What?”

Su Xiaoxiao's voice was soft and indifferent. “I said, I want the letter for releasing Su Yuniang.”

Zheng Lanxiu returned to the Zheng family.

The sound of laughter came from Zheng Yuanbo's room. She suddenly felt irritated and raised her hand to slap the door without hesitation. “Zheng Yuanbo, come out!”

The playful sounds stopped abruptly, followed by the rustling of clothes.

After a while, Zheng Yuanbo opened the door in a panic.

Zheng Lanxiu could tell at a glance that he was doing something shameful in his room again.

Ah Xiang was his woman. Logically speaking, it was not too much to do anything, but in broad daylight… Ah Xiang was still pregnant…

That woman was a vixen!

“Sister.”

Ah Xiang finished tidying her clothes and timidly came to Zheng Yuanbo's side. She lowered her head and looked extremely afraid.

Zheng Lanxiu was disgusted by the way she addressed her.

Zheng Lanxiu did not like Su Yuniang because Su Yuniang had a strong personality and was very smart. She knew how to win people over and do business. She earned a lot of money for the family and seriously threatened her status.

Zheng Lanxiu did like Ah Xiang more. Ah Xiang was obedient and knew how to coax people.

But today…

Zheng Lanxiu frowned.

“Brother Xing, come with me.”

She brought Zheng Yuanbo to the kitchen.

“Sister, what's the matter?” Zheng Yuanbo asked.

Zheng Lanxiu looked at him. “What do you think about Yu Niang?”

Zheng Yuanbo's eyes flashed. “Ah… She, she didn't want to come back, right?”

Zheng Lanxiu said resentfully, “So you're just going to let it go?”

Zheng Yuanbo muttered, “Yuniang will hit Ah Xiang. Ah Xiang's belly is getting bigger. What if it affects her pregnancy? Sister, Ah Xiang is pregnant with a son!”

Zheng Lanxiu asked angrily, “Who told you that?”

Zheng Yuanbo shuddered and lowered his voice. “Ah Xiang's stomach is sharp. The elders in the village said so.”

Zheng Lanxiu closed her eyes. “Do you not like Yu Niang anymore?”

Zheng Yuanbo said, “I do, but I'm also a little afraid of her. If only Yuniang was gentler, like Ah Xiang.”

Zheng Lanxiu was furious. “Ah Xiang, Ah Xiang, you can't stop talking about her! I think you should go with Ah Xiang!”

Zheng Yuanbo was unhappy. “Sister, Ah Xiang wants to live with me. If you get Yuniang to accept Ah Xiang, Ah Xiang will treat her as her biological sister. Ah Xiang has such a good temper. She definitely won't cause trouble for Yuniang.”

“Let me ask you: if you can only choose one between Yu Niang and Ah Xiang. Who do you choose?”

“Sister!”

“Answer me!”

“… Yu Niang.”

Zheng Lanxiu sighed helplessly with a complicated expression.

“Then from today onwards, you're not allowed to touch Ah Xiang again. After she gives birth, send her away. I'll raise the child. Actually, it's better for Yu Niang not to see it. Forget it, I'll get Ah Xiang to go back with me later.”

Zheng Yuanbo moved his lips. He wanted to say something, but he did not dare to disobey his eldest sister.

He said gloomily, “I'll talk to Ah Xiang.”

Zheng Lanxiu sat alone in the kitchen with tears streaming down her face.

In the end, she still chose her younger brother between Cripple Feng and her younger brother.

Ah Xiang asked, “Yuan Bo, what did Big Sis say to you?”

Zheng Yuanbo lowered his head and did not dare to look at her. “In a while, you and Eldest Sister will head back.”

“Why?” Ah Xiang asked.

“Eldest Sis… wants to send you off.” Zheng Yuanbo said.

Ah Xiang panicked. “Husband! Don't you want Ah Xiang anymore? Ah Xiang is pregnant with your child!”

Zheng Yuanbo said sadly, “Big Sister… asked me to choose between you and Yu Niang. Yu Niang is my official wife. I can't divorce her. Father and Mother won't agree.”

Ah Xiang took out a handkerchief and wiped her tears. “Eldest Sister is a married daughter. Why should she care about her family's matters?”

Zheng Yuanbo said, “Don't say that about Eldest Sister. This family can't do without Eldest Sister. We can't do without Yu Niang either.”

Yuniang was good with business and earned a lot of money for the family.

Ah Xiang turned around. “I'm not leaving!”

Zheng Yuanbo fell silent.

Ah Xiang bit her lip and turned around to hug him. She asked in a coquettish voice, “Can you bear for me to leave?”

Zheng Yuanbo lowered his head. “What's the use of being reluctant? If you don't leave, Yu Niang won't come back…”

Ah Xiang choked and said, “Alright, I'll leave then! Before I leave, I'll serve you again, okay?”

Zheng Yuanbo whispered, “Ah Xiang, don't be like this…”

Zheng Lanxiu had enough of crying. She wiped her tears and prepared to call Ah Xiang to go back with her.

However, when she arrived at Zheng Yuanbo's door, an unbearable sound came from inside.

The door was not closed tightly. Through the crack in the door, she saw two figures intertwined.

Su Xiaoxiao didn't go to town today. It was Father Su who dragged his precious son-in-law out to set up a stall.

Wei Ting was forced to set up shop. He sat on the stool behind the stall with a cold expression, exuding an aura that prevented strangers from approaching.

Even so, there were still many people who came to admire his beautiful face.

“Give me ten chestnut cakes and ask that young man to pack them for me,” a young girl said shyly.

Wei Ting's eyelids did not even twitch.

Father Su chopped the machete on the chopping board. “Say it again, who's going to pack it!”

The little girl was so scared that she cried.

Su Xiaoxiao didn't know that her father was such a bandit. She was making salted eggs with Little Wu in the backyard.

Even though they did not have to supply Jin Ji, their salted eggs were still not enough. They had no choice. Business was too good.

When she ran out of wood ash, she went to the kitchen to move it.

At this moment, someone walked over from the central room.

Little Wu said, “Yu Niang, you're in confinement. It's windy today. Don't come out.”

The other party did not respond.

Madam Wu turned around. “You are…”

“I'm looking for Su Daya.”

Zheng Lanxiu said.

Chapter 158

Cripple Feng's injuries had worsened so much that the physician from Rong'en Hall was no longer coming.

When Su Xiaoxiao pushed the door open and entered, a stench assaulted her nose. If it wasn't winter, it would have attracted mosquitoes and flies.

Zheng Lanxiu had gone through a huge struggle to invite Su Xiaoxiao over.

She glanced at Su Xiaoxiao, but there was no change in her expression.

“Can't… can't you smell it?” she asked.

“I can smell it.” Su Xiaoxiao carried the basket into the house.

Zheng Lanxiu was even more surprised. She didn't know how many people had been driven away by the stench of Cripple Feng. The physicians of Rong'en Hall all looked disgusted. They frowned and covered their noses with handkerchiefs.

Su Xiaoxiao placed the basket on the table.

Zheng Lanxiu opened her mouth. “Are you sure you can cure him?”

Su Xiaoxiao didn't answer her. Instead, she said, “Go out and wait. I don't like to be disturbed when I'm treating people.”

Zheng Lanxiu said, “I won't disturb you.”

Su Xiaoxiao looked at her indifferently. Zheng Lanxiu sighed. “Okay, I'll wait outside.”

Zheng Lanxiu left the room.

“Close the door,” Su Xiaoxiao said.

Zheng Lanxiu closed the door.

Cripple Feng's face was flushed, his lips were dry, and his breathing was heavy and even. Su Xiaoxiao opened the first aid kit and took out a thermometer to measure him.

Forty degrees.

He was having a fever.

She lifted the blanket. The stench was even stronger, almost nauseating.

Su Xiaoxiao's expression did not change at all. She carefully examined Cripple Feng's wound.

In just a few days, his wound had already festered so badly.

The physicians of Rong'en Hall were really useless. What was the use of just applying ointment? They had to clean the wound.

Otherwise, even if they applied a hundred bottles, the inside would still fester.

Of course, it wasn't just Rong'en Hall that caused his condition to deteriorate. Su Xiaoxiao found something other than a golden sore medicine on his wound. It looked like the wood ash she used to make salted eggs.

Wood ash had a wide range of uses.

Country people used it to fill their menstrual belts and scattered it on the fields during spring plowing to improve the soil. In addition, many soil recipes also used wood ash to treat external injuries.

Wood ash did have the effect of stopping bleeding to a certain extent, but it could also cause contamination to the wound. Unclean wood ash, in particular, would cause the wound to be infected again.

Zheng Lanxiu must have been desperate and found a local prescription for Cripple Feng to test.

The situation was more serious than she had imagined. It seemed that Cripple Feng had to suffer more.

However, it was right for a lecher like him to suffer. At least it would teach him a lesson. She would see if he still dared to have lecherous thoughts in the future.

Su Xiaoxiao asked Zheng Lanxiu for a wooden basin.

She first washed the wound with saline. Cripple Feng had been bitten through. She could not only clean the surface but also the flesh.

The muddle-headed Cripple Feng up from the pain.

“Ah!”

He let out a blood-curdling scream.

What the heck? The iodophor and peroxide haven't been served yet. She'll have to wash it a few times. He should just suck it up!

She would see if he would dare to do it in the future!

Zheng Lanxiu's heart skipped a beat as she listened outside the door. There were a few times when she wondered if Su Daya was going to take the opportunity to torture Cripple Feng to death.

Cleaning the wound was only the first step. She still had to apply medication and suture the wound, which would really take half of Cripple Feng's life. After all, she had used up all the anesthesia in her hand.

Cripple Feng was not Jing Yi. He did not have the tenacity to endure the pain. He was in so much pain that he cried for his parents. He fainted a few times and woke up from the pain a few times.

Zheng Lanxiu was crying outside. When Su Xiaoxiao finally completed the treatment, Zheng Lanxiu looked as if she was the one who had been stitched up. She was drenched in a cold sweat.

“How is it?” She hurried into the house and staggered to the bed.

“It's alright,” Su Xiaoxiao replied.

Zheng Lanxiu choked and asked, “What do you mean by alright?”

Su Xiaoxiao put the first aid kit into the small basket. “I've cleaned up everything that needs to be cleaned up, sutured everything that needs to be stitched up, and applied the medication. The fever will subside in three days. I'll come over every day to change his dressing. Remember to give him two pills every morning and night. He's already taken them this morning. You can give them to him tonight after dinner.”

With that, Su Xiaoxiao placed the anti-inflammatory medicine on the table.

Zheng Lanxiu picked up the porcelain bottle. She was still nervous, but Su Daya's steady look ignited a trace of hope in her.

Su Xiaoxiao played with the knife in her hand. “Don't forget about the release letter. I can treat him and but I can also kill him.”

Zheng Lanxiu shivered.

Three days later, Cripple Feng's fever really subsided, and his consciousness became much clearer. His wound no longer smelled bad.

He was still in pain, but it wasn't the kind of pain that made him feel like dying.

“If I can't get the release letter today, I won't come tomorrow,” Su Xiaoxiao said to Zheng Lanxiu.

Su Xiaoxiao wanted a release letter, not a divorce letter.

If it was a divorce letter, it would be easier. Although Su Yuniang did not make any mistakes, the divorce letter would count as long as she did not go to the government office to sue the Zheng family.

There was no precedent for a letter to release a wife from marriage in the surrounding villages.

A woman would either stay in her in-laws' house for the rest of her life or be chased out by them. How could she leave the house with her head held high?

Would Old Zheng let her go?

Could Old Zheng take this lying down?

Zheng Lanxiu said, “I have an idea. If Yu Niang agrees to pay…”

Su Xiaoxiao said coldly, “Don't have any ideas about Su Yuniang!”

Zheng Xiulan choked on her words. At present, Su Daya was Cripple Feng's only hope. She had Cripple Feng's life in her hands, and Zheng Lanxiu could not afford to offend her.

An hour later, Zheng Lanxiu found Ah Xiang. “Do you want to stay with the Zheng family?”

At Little Su's house, the three little ones led the foal to the village to ride their horse. Little Wu was working in the backyard while Su Yuniang watched from the side.

She had not finished her confinement and could not touch cold water.

However, she was not really idle. She had just finished settling the accounts.

In the past, Su Xiaoxiao was the one who settled the accounts. When Su Xiaoxiao went to the capital, it was Wei Ting who settled the accounts. When Su Yuniang came, it was Su Yuniang who took over the accounts.

Su Xiaoxiao was now delegating everything to others.

“Here.”

Su Xiaoxiao suddenly appeared behind Su Yuniang and handed her a piece of paper.

“What?” Su Yuniang took it.

Su Yuniang knew about Su Xiaoxiao treating Cripple Feng's injuries. That day, when Zheng Lanxiu came to invite Su Xiaoxiao, she was in her room for confinement.

However, Su Yuniang did not know about Su Xiaoxiao's conditions for Zheng Lanxiu.

Therefore, when Su Yuniang saw the release letter written in black and white, she was stunned.

“You…”

She looked at Su Xiaoxiao in a daze and then at the letter in her hand. She flipped through it several times. There was Village Head Zheng's seal and Zheng Yuanbo's signature and stamp.

It was real.

It was a true release letter!

How was this possible?

How could the Zheng family agree?

It was already difficult for her to get a divorce letter, let alone a release letter!

She was already prepared to fight the Zheng family to death. She even thought that the Zheng family would skin her alive!

“Daya…”

She looked at the chubby girl in front of her in disbelief.

This girl said “Okay”, but it turned out that she didn't mean “Okay, I understand.”

Instead, she meant, “Alright, leave it to me.”

Chapter 159

Su Xiaoxiao casually folded her sleeves. “It's just a small matter. Don't be too touched.”

Strictly speaking, she really had to thank Su Jinniang for this.

If Su Jinniang hadn't lured Cripple Feng up the mountain and caused him to be injured, Cripple Feng's life wouldn't have fallen into her hands.

Luck and opportunity were prepared for those with strength, and she happened to know medicine. It could only be said that the stars aligned.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Sign your name, stamp it, and then take it to the government office to seal it.”

Little Wu was not that surprised.

Daya was like this. She would really risk her life for the people around her. She was meticulous and brave. She was the most special girl Little Wu had ever seen.

Su Yuniang didn't deny Su Xiaoxiao's ability and righteousness. She just… couldn't figure out how Su Xiaoxiao did it.

That was the Zheng family!

Even if Zheng Lanxiu took action, she would not be able to persuade the Zheng family to give her a release letter!

Su Xiaoxiao said calmly, “The one called Ah Xiang… seems to have played a role.”

Su Xiaoxiao was an efficient person. If she wanted the release letter, she had to get it on the day itself. Otherwise, there would be trouble.

Zheng Lanxiu had no choice but to look for Ah Xiang.

First, she put on a show with Ah Xiang. She held a knife and wanted to chase Ah Xiang out. Ah Xiang pretended to be helpless and revealed her true identity.

Ah Xiang said that she was originally a child of a rich family and had fled from her family to escape the marriage. She fell in love with Zheng Yuanbo at first sight and was afraid that the Zheng family would send her back to marry her fiancé, so she refused to reveal her identity.

In order to prove that what she said was true, Ah Xiang even took out a box of gold jewelry and a bank card.

She declared, “I'm much richer than Su Yuniang. If you want money, I can give it to you! But I have a condition. With me, Ah Xiang, in this family, there won't be Su Yuniang!”

“Don't blame me for not reminding you. Su Yuniang's body is injured from giving birth. I'm afraid she won't be able to give birth in the future! If you are willing to sever the Zheng family's bloodline, so be it!”

Su Yuniang could not leave with her child because she was Zheng Yuanbo's legitimate wife. They had a marriage contract!

However, Ah Xiang was nameless and the Zheng family could not control her.

If she left with the child in her stomach, the Zheng family would really be helpless. They could not keep her…

She was more fertile and richer than Su Yuniang. The Zheng family was tempted. Coupled with Zheng Lanxiu fanning the flames from the side, the Zheng family agreed.

Zheng Lanxiu continued, “Yuniang didn't do anything wrong. Our Zheng family can't divorce her. We can only give her a release letter. Yuniang has to agree to it herself.”

Elder Zheng asked, “What if she doesn't agree?”

Zheng Lanxiu frowned. “I'll talk to her.”

The result was that Su Yuniang wanted her child. She also wanted to take away the clothes and jewelry under her name.

After understanding the entire process of the incident, Su Yuniang did not know what to say.

She muttered, “How much anxiety did you cause Zheng Lanxiu for her to think of this trick? Isn't she afraid that Ah Xiang will be exposed?”

Su Xiaoxiao chuckled. “If she exposes herself, they can chase Ah Xiang out.”

Su Yuniang was stunned for a moment before she came to a realization.

Zheng Lanxiu killed two birds with one stone. Not only did she use Ah Xiang to get the release letter written by the Zheng family, but she also had something on Ah Xiang. If Ah Xiang had any ill intentions in the future, she could accuse her of not being the daughter of a rich family. It was Ah Xiang who threatened her with the child in her stomach and forced her to fake it for Ah Xiang.

Su Yuniang smiled emotionally. “I underestimated this sister-in-law in the past.”

That was because her cultivation was not shallow!

Reality proved that there were many smart women in the world.

“Aiyaya, Sister Wu is still the cutest.” Su Xiaoxiao looked at Madam Wu with curved eyes.

Little Wu blushed and lowered her head shyly.

Su Yuniang's face darkened.

Who was she calling cute?

In the afternoon, Father Su returned from his business with Wei Ting and Su Ergou.

“Why are you so late today?” Su Xiaoxiao asked.

“Ask your son-in-law!” Father Su said unwillingly.

Su Ergou said bitterly, “There were so many people blocking the alley. We couldn't even get out. Don't bring Brother-in-law to set up a stall in the future. They were all here to see him!”

Su Xiaoxiao looked at Wei Ting seriously and nodded thoughtfully. “Yes.”

Such a good-looking husband should indeed be hidden at home. He should be hidden forever.

Wei Ting frowned. Why did he feel that the way this girl looked at him was not right?

“Mother.”

Xiaohu grabbed his little head and walked over from the entrance.

Su Xiaoxiao held his hand. “What's wrong? Is your head itchy?”

Xiaohu shook his head.

He looked very uncomfortable. Wei Ting frowned, almost thinking that he had “relapsed” again.

Su Xiaoxiao carried the little guy and placed him on the chair. She asked softly, “Where are your brothers?”

“At Niudan's,” he said in his baby voice.

So the little guy came back alone? Such a situation was rare. Usually, the three of them would move out together.

Su Xiaoxiao squatted down and looked at him. “Tell me if you feel uncomfortable.”

“Mm… Mm…” Xiaohu scratched his head and made a few uncomfortable sounds.

Su Xiaoxiao opened his hair bun and examined his scalp. “Is it itchy? Or does it hurt?”

“It hurts,” Xiaohu said aggrievedly.

Su Xiaoxiao asked, “Where does it hurt?”

Xiaohu said, “My teeth hurt.”

Why are you scratching your head when your teeth hurt?

Hearing this, Wei Ting's heart relaxed a little. It was good that it was not a “relapse”. It seemed that other than the last time when she did not return for a long time and they had a relapse, they were almost normal children the rest of the time.

Thinking of this, Wei Ting looked at Su Xiaoxiao with a complicated gaze.

She said that she would return the token to him.

If that day really came…

Su Xiaoxiao didn't know what Wei Ting was thinking. She was busy examining Xiaohu's teeth.

She carried Xiaohu to a place where there was enough light at the door and said to Xiaohu, “Open your mouth and let me see.”

Xiaohu raised his head and opened his mouth obediently. “Ah…”

It seemed he had caries.

Su Xiaoxiao asked seriously, “Did you secretly eat candy again?”

The desserts she made were not too sweet, especially the ones she made for them alone. All of them had reduced sugar and she would remind them to rinse their mouths. This was unless Xiaohu secretly ate candy.

Xiao Hu shook his head seriously. “I didn't steal any candy.”

It was a pancake that he had secretly eaten.

Children's baby teeth would fall off when they reached a certain age, but that did not mean that the baby teeth did not need treatment. If it was serious to a certain extent, not only would it hurt, but it might also affect the germination of the teeth.

At the thought of such a cute and beautiful child, she smiled and gritted her teeth. He was too beautiful!

Su Xiaoxiao took some cotton swabs and water and cleaned Xiaohu's teeth carefully. “Let's observe it first. If it still hurts tomorrow, we'll have to pull out your teeth.”

Xiaohu was shocked. “Xiaohu doesn't want to pull out teeth!”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “If you eat candy secretly, you have to pull out your teeth!”

Xiaohu raised his little hand and pointed next door. He said in a particularly serious tone, “Dahu ate too! Pull out Dahu's teeth!”

Ha! This little guy really did not hesitate to sell out Dahu!

However, this reminded Su Xiaoxiao.

Su Xiaoxiao pulled Dahu and Erhu back and checked their teeth one by one. Dahu and Erhu were fine, but Xiaohu had caries.

Xiaohu was grief-stricken!

He knelt on the ground and punched his chest angrily!

They were brothers. They would share their happiness and difficulties together!

Why didn't they get caries together?

Chapter 160

As the only baby in the family who had caries, Xiaohu received special treatment from Su Xiaoxiao—he was under the supervision of the entire family and was not allowed to eat pancakes for the time being.

Life was not easy. Xiaohu sighed!

Dental caries required treatment. The sooner the better.

Su Xiaoxiao entered the pharmacy smoothly this time. Before she could react, she was already in the pharmacy's lounge.

It was a lounge, not a ward.

Based on her previous experience in the pharmacy, she would usually enter a certain ward directly if it was an emergency.

For example, she got medicine for Wei Ting in the surgical area. She obtained medicine for Young Master Xiang in the internal medicine area and retrieved medicine for Aunt Fu in the cardiology area.

There were only two times when she entered the lounge. The first time was when she hid the token, and the second time was when she was rewarded with a bottle of multivitamins.

Su Xiaoxiao's gaze fell on the table in the lounge. As expected, other than Wei Ting's token, there were two more bottles of medicine.

One bottle of collagen peptide powder, the other… Uh, why wasn't anything written?

Su Xiaoxiao unscrewed the cap and took a look. These were small yellow pills that looked a little like detox pills. They smelled a little similar, but why wasn't there a label? It looked like a third-rate product.

Su Xiaoxiao touched her chin. “Is this for me again?”

Ever since she weighed herself on New Year's Eve and realized that she had lost 20 kilograms, her confidence in losing weight had increased greatly. In addition to the necessary daily exercise, she had also controlled her diet more strictly.

For heavier people, losing weight too quickly can easily lead to skin relaxation, and collagen could promote skin elasticity.

She did not dare to say if the collagen on the market was really effective or if this was an IQ tax. After all, she had never consumed them. However, the medicine in the base pharmacy was definitely effective. That being said, she felt that she had no use for the detox pills at all.

The Chameleon Grass was enough for typical heat-removal cases. If one was really poisoned, the Detox Pill would be useless.

“Forget it, I shall just accept it first.”

Su Xiaoxiao put the two bottles of medicine away.

This time, Su Xiaoxiao was very dutiful. She didn't take the black technology concoctions from the pharmacy. She only took some medicine and materials for treating Xiaohu's dental caries, a little anesthetic, and Wei Ting's token.

After leaving the pharmacy, Su Xiaoxiao quickly checked her purse.

Wei Ting's token was still there.

–

Su Xiaoxiao went to the central room to look for Xiaohu.

“Eh? Where's Xiaohu?”

Xiaohu had gone into hiding.

He did not want his teeth to be pulled out, so he carried his small pillow to Father Su's room.

“Grandpa.”

Su Cheng looked at Xiaohu who had suddenly entered the house and asked, “What's wrong?”

Xiaohu hugged his little pillow and looked at him adorably. “Sleep with Grandpa.”

Father Su said, “Are you the only one?”

The three little ones usually act collectively.

Xiao Hu nodded.

In the past few days, Su Ergou had vacated his room for Su Yuniang. The father and son squeezed together at night. Although his bed was not small, it could not fit three people. But if it was only Xiaohu, they could manage.

“Alright, come up.” Father Su pulled the blanket away.

It was not dark yet. Father Su had woken up early to do business. He had to catch up on sleep.

Xiaohu kicked off his shoes and slipped into bed.

When Su Xiaoxiao found Su Cheng's room, Xiao Hu had already crawled into Father Su's bed.

However, although his head and body had gone in, his little butt was still sticking out.

Su Xiaoxiao looked at the little ostrich and laughed.

In the end, Su Xiaoxiao was the one who pulled him out.

“Grandpa, help!”

Xiaohu appealed to Su Cheng's sympathy.

“Why don't…” Father Su looked at his chubby daughter and wanted to say that it was just a toothache. He would be fine after he grew up and his permanent teeth sprouted. There was no need to really pull out his teeth.

However, when he met Su Xiaoxiao's serious gaze, Father Su lost.

“Aiya, Grandpa is asleep.” Su Cheng closed his eyes and remained unconscious!

Xiaohu's inner thoughts were that adults nowadays were too unreliable!

Along the way, Xiaohu sent out strong distress signals to Su Yuniang, Madam Wu, and Su Ergou.

But who would dare to provoke Su Daya?

For a moment, everyone was blind.

Wei Ting was also in the east room.

“Father!” Xiao Hu called out the most sincere “father” since he was two and a half years old.

Wei Ting walked over. “Give him to me.”

Boohoo, Daddy was reliable!

“Oh, okay.” Su Xiaoxiao gave Xiaohu to Wei Ting.

Xiao Hu hugged his stinky father's neck and glared at his own short legs!

“Let's leave! Let's leave!”

Wei Ting sat down and clasped Xiao Hu's hands and feet tightly. “Is this okay?”

Xiaohu was dumbfounded.

Su Xiaoxiao put on her gloves and took out her tweezers. “Oh, turn to the right a little. The lighting is better that way.”

The condition of Xiao Hu's teeth wasn't so serious that she needed to pull them out. They were in the mildest condition. Su Xiaoxiao used a little dressing to treat his caries.

In addition, Su Xiaoxiao noticed that his second molar was about to grow out.

No wonder the little guy had been drooling a lot recently.

Xiaohu sat on Wei Ting's lap, and Su Xiaoxiao bent down to treat him.

In order to see more clearly, she had no choice but to get closer to Xiaohu and Wei Ting.

It was so close that Wei Ting could see her eyelashes clearly.

Wei Ting recalled the first time he looked at her.

To be honest, she had changed a lot.

But the changes didn't seem revolutionary.

The former was her skin, and the latter… was her unique seriousness and focus.

“Done.” Su Xiaoxiao took back the tweezers.

Wei Ting put Xiaohu down.

Su Cheng had been looking at the door for a long time. Seeing that the little guy was finally done, he hurriedly walked in.

Xiaohu pounced into his arms aggrievedly. “Boohoo, Grandpa!”

Su Cheng held the little guy in his arms and comforted him. “Don't cry, don't cry. Grandpa will bring you to set off firecrackers and shoot slingshots!”

Su Xiaoxiao didn't know whether to laugh or cry.

The process of applying the medicine was actually not uncomfortable. The little guy was so sad because he thought that she had pulled out his little teeth. He was worried about his little teeth.

Su Xiaoxiao started to pack up the medicine and tools on the table. She thought of something and took off her gloves. She took out a token from her pouch and handed it to Wei Ting.

“I promised to return it to you.”

Wei Ting was stunned when he saw that she had really returned the token intact.

Su Xiaoxiao waved the token. “Take it. Don't tell me you don't want it?”

Wei Ting paused and slowly took the token.

After Su Xiaoxiao left, the man in black, Yuchi Xiu, flashed in.

He stared at the token in Wei Ting's hand and his eyes lit up. “Lord! This little girl kept her word. She really returned the token to you! That's great! We can finally set off for the capital!”

Wei Ting gave him a cold look.

The lord didn't seem very happy. But he wasn't wrong.

Yuchi Xiu activated his powerful brain function as he looked at his lord's legs and came to a sudden realization.

“My Lord's leg injury has yet to recover. I was negligent. We'll return to the capital after you recover!”

logo

Chapter 161

As the only pitiful baby in the family who had his teeth “pulled out”, Xiaohu had a small reason to be finicky.

He didn't eat by himself. He wanted someone to feed him.

Su Cheng was feeding him with a small bowl.

He was a little boy. After Grandpa fed him, he wanted Uncle to feed him. After Uncle fed him, he wanted Auntie Su to feed him.

In the end, he even pulled Dahu and Erhu over. “Brother, feed.”

Dahu… Dahu fed him a fist.

At the end of the month, Father Su welcomed his 37th birthday. Su Ergou was also 14 years old.

On the first day of February, Su Yuniang's child was one month old.

In the countryside, the child had to hold a one-month-old celebration. Su Yuniang recuperated in her maiden home for many days before moving into the Su family's house.

The Su family told the public that she was not in good health and was in danger. They had to let the physician take care of her at all times.

The villagers were suspicious.

There were a few times when they passed by Little Su's house and saw Su Yuniang prancing around. She could even settle the accounts and take care of the three children.

Now that her child was one month old, she should return to her in-laws' house to hold a one-month-old celebration.

Or at least, her in-laws should come to pick up the child.

“It's a girl, what's there to celebrate?” Su Can said to the villagers.

It was not uncommon to not hold a one-month-old celebration for a baby girl. However, what happened next stunned all the villagers.

Zheng Lanxiu came to the Su family's house and gave them a large cart full of Su Yuniang's belongings.

What did that mean?

Was Su Yuniang chased out by the Zheng family?

The Su family was furious.

Su Can immediately blocked Zheng Lanxiu's path with his eldest son, Su Dalang. “What does the Zheng family want?”

Zheng Lanxiu snorted coldly. “Why don't you ask your precious daughter? She's the one who wants to divorce my brother!”

“What? Divorce?”

Su Can and his son felt like they were struck by a bolt from the blue. They didn't even remember how they had returned to the Su family.

Old Master Su asked Su Yuniang to come over.

Since Su Yuniang had finished her confinement period, she planned to go to the government office to seal the release letter to let it take effect. Otherwise, she would still be the daughter-in-law of the Zheng family.

“Sis, Grandpa wants to see you,” he whispered.

If it were Dalang and Erlang, Su Yuniang would not have bothered. However, this was the only younger brother of the Su family who was on her side. Su Yuniang did not want to make things difficult for him.

“Okay, I'll go with you.”

She was going, not going back.

In her heart, she no longer treated the Su family as her own home.

He lowered his head. “Grandpa wants you to enter from the back.”

He felt that she had embarrassed the Su family.

Fine. She would do as requested.

In the main hall of the Su family, Su Yuniang saw her dignified grandfather, her complaining grandmother, her indignant father, her two disappointed brothers, her pitiless sister, and her weak and helpless mother.

This was the family she had been with for so many years. It was really heartbreaking.

“San Lang, go with your mother to the kitchen to cook,” Old Master Su instructed.

Su Sanlang gave Su Yuniang a worried look.

Su Yuniang patted his shoulder assuringly. “Big Sister is fine. Go.”

Su San Lang and Madam Fang went to the kitchen.

Old Master Su's face darkened. “What's going on between you and the Zheng family?”

Su Yuniang said frankly, “I divorced Zheng Yuanbo.”

The entire family gasped.

Zheng Lanxiu was not lying. This girl had really divorced him!

Old Master Su slammed his palm on the table. “How dare you!”

Su Yuniang did not say anything.

In the few days she had stayed with the Su family, she had learned one thing from Su Daya, and that was to not waste her breath on people who did not understand her.

Those who understood didn't require you to explain. For those who didn't, it was useless no matter what you say.

Her maternal family would not care that Zheng Yuanbo had a vixen by his side, nor would they consider the torture and disgust she felt when she faced a scumbag and a concubine every day.

They only wanted Su Yuniang to continue being the daughter-in-law of the main family in Shallow Water Village.

Su Dalang frowned and said, “Sister, you'll make us unable to raise our heads in the village.”

Su Yuniang asked, “That's more important than whether I'm doing well or not, right?”

Su Dalang said coldly, “Why aren't you living well? Brother-in-law dotes on you very much, and your parents-in-law also value you. Go to the village and ask. How many wives can receive such treatment accorded to you?”

It was true that Zheng Yuanbo doted on her, but he also betrayed her.

Her parents-in-law thought highly of her. However, didn't they still choose to keep Ah Xiang at home after hearing that she couldn't give birth and wasn't as rich as Ah Xiang?

She knew that she was doing something shocking. Perhaps she was born rebellious.

“Where's the release letter?” Old Master Su went straight to the point.

Compared to the others who only knew how to use words to suppress Su Yuniang, Old Master Su clearly knew how to grasp the pertinent points.

The release letter needed to be stamped in the government office, and Su Yuniang had been in confinement. In other words, she had not had the chance to legitimize the release letter.

Su Xiaoxiao went to set up a stall today.

When the regular customers saw her, they immediately felt that it had been a long time.

It couldn't be helped. Father Su was too cruel, scaring a few girls to tears.

Even so, Su Ji's business was still getting more and more popular. Wasn't it infuriating?

“Eh? Girl, have you lost weight again?”

An aunt asked.

Su Xiaoxiao smiled. “Ah, I've lost some weight.”

She had secretly weighed herself again last night and found that she lost another twenty pounds.

If the first month's 20 pounds did not seem to have made a difference, the second month's weight loss of 20 pounds could not be more obvious.

The cuffs of her sleeves were loose, her collar less taut, and the flesh on her cheeks lessened.

Before, she panted heavily when she took three steps and sweated profusely when she took five. Now, she was a light and chubby girl.

Su Xiaoxiao didn't lose weight for others to see. She wanted a healthy body.

Compared to the external changes, what delighted her more was the continuous strengthening of her body.

If this continued, it wouldn't be long before she could recover… half of her strength from her previous life.

Why half?

It was all because this body was special.

In her previous life, she did everything with half the effort. Now, it was the other way around.

Soon, the pancakes were sold out. Su Xiaoxiao closed the stall and went to the market with Su Ergou to buy ingredients.

Su Ji had made a name for itself in town, and the boss of the shop knew Su Xiaoxiao. They knew that someone called Liu Ping would come to pick up the goods for her later.

The siblings walked back to the village.

On the way, Su Ergou suddenly said, “Sister, have you noticed that the people from Jin Ji have not come to find trouble with us recently?”

Su Xiaoxiao was surprised.

They had robbed Jin Ji of their business. Logically speaking, Jin Ji should hold a grudge and find an opportunity to take revenge.

Even if they were afraid of Old Madam Qi, they could secretly cause trouble as long as they did not blow up their stall in public and did not let anyone catch them red-handed.

But Jin Ji… didn't seem to have moved.

This had to start with Yuchi Xiu.

Yuchi Xiu had tied up Manager He before he went to the prefecture capital.

With a raise of his hand and a slash, Manager He turned into a bald chicken.

From the beginning to the end, Yuchi Xiu didn't even give Manager He a frontal view.

He stood under the moonlight with his back facing Shopkeeper He, looking cool and arrogant.

“Be good, or you'll die next time!”

Manager He thought to himself,” What do you mean by being good? Listen to who? What do you want me to do? Where did this idiot come from? Tell me clearly before you leave!”

Chapter 162

Manager He was tied to the cold ground and lay naked for the entire night. The next day, he caught a cold and had not been to Jin Ji for several days.

Su Ergou showed off his biceps. “Sis, we must have scared him!”

Su Xiaoxiao pondered for a moment. “Hmm… that's true.”

When the siblings reached home, they did not see Su Yuniang.

After asking Madam Wu, she shook her head. “I went to the river to wash the salted eggs. When I came back, she wasn't in the house anymore. Oh right, I heard her say that she was going to the county office. Did she go to town?”

Su Xiaoxiao knew about the matter of getting the letter stamped at the county office. She had set up the stall early in the morning and Su Yuniang was still sleeping. Her original plan was to get Liu Ping to send Su Yuniang to town in the afternoon on a donkey cart.

However, he could not rule out the possibility that Su Yuniang could not wait and went to the county office herself.

As for why Su Xiaoxiao didn't meet her, it wasn't hard to understand.

The town was so big, and the county office and Jinji were in two different directions. Coincidentally, they had missed each other on the way.

However, Su Yuniang did not return even in the evening.

“Does it take that long to go to the county office?” Su Xiaoxiao muttered and asked Su Ergou to ask Old Li to see when Su Yuniang left the village.

The village head and Old Li both said that they did not see Su Yuniang leave the village.

This was strange.

If she did not leave the village, where could Su Yuniang have gone?

Could it be that the village head's family and Old Li's family happened to not see Su Yuniang go out?

Su Xiaoxiao called Liu Ping over. “Brother Liu, please go to the county office and see if Yu Niang is here.”

“I'll be right there!”

Liu Ping sat on the donkey cart and the donkey galloped away. This donkey was different from other donkeys. It ate a lot, was strong, and ran fast.

About an hour later, Liu Ping returned to the village.

“The people from the government office said that no young woman came today.”

Madam Wu did not leave. She was also waiting for news of Su Yuniang at the Su family's house.

She asked, “Could she have… returned to the Zheng family?”

“No.” Su Xiaoxiao shook her head. “Su Yuniang has cut ties with the Zheng family.”

“Old Su?” Su Ergou also expressed his guess.

Su Yuniang had mentioned that she had left some things at the Su family's house. Her luggage… and some of her private money.

Su Xiaoxiao didn't know the exact amount. Su Yuniang didn't say anything, but it shouldn't be a small sum.

Su Yuniang hid it very well. She did not even tell Madam Fang.

Therefore, if Su Yuniang wanted to take back her things, she had to go personally.

The Su family should have some luggage left… Su Xiaoxiao thought about it and was about to visit them personally when the Su family came.

It was Su Can and Su Erlang.

The father and son were aggressive as if they were here to tear down the house.

Su Can stood at the door and shouted, “Fatty Su! Where did you hide Yu Niang? Ask her to come out and see me! I have something to say to her!”

Su Xiaoxiao glanced at the three of them strangely. “Yu Niang isn't here.”

She found it strange that Su Yuniang wasn't in the Su family either.

“Where did Yu Niang go?” Su Can asked.

“I don't know,” Su Xiaoxiao answered honestly.

Su Can's expression darkened. “Fatty Su! Su Yuniang has been staying at your house for the past few days. Don't you know where she is?”

“I just don't know.” Su Xiaoxiao said calmly.

Su Can said coldly, “Did you deliberately hide her and not let us see her?”

Su Ergou walked out. “Why would we hide? We haven't seen Sister Yuniang since we came back from town. We wanted to ask you if Sister Yuniang went to your place.”

“Nonsense! Yu Niang isn't in our Su family at all!” Su Can said to his son, “Erlang, go and ask the village head and Li Xiaoyong if Yu Niang left the village.”

Su Erlang went.

Su Xiaoxiao didn't stop him. Why should she be kind enough to help the Su family?

Su Erlang returned with sweat all over his forehead. He panted and said, “Father, Second Sister didn't leave the village.”

Su Xiaoxiao narrowed her eyes.

Su Can glared at Su Xiaoxiao. “Fatty Su! Where did you hide Yu Niang?”

Liu Ping also walked out and said, “You've misunderstood. Daya really didn't hide Yu Niang. Daya is also looking for Yu Niang.”

Su Can suddenly raised his voice. “In that case, you've lost Yu Niang?”

Liu Ping hurriedly explained, “No… We didn't…”

Su Can's voice was too loud, startling the villagers nearby. First, it was Madam He and Madam Wu from the neighboring house, followed by the Sun family's wife and Aunt Wu.

Not long after, the most powerful gossiper in the village, Madam Zhou, also came over.

She and Auntie Liu arrived one after another. After all, one lived on the left of the Su family while the other lived on the right.

“What happened?” Madam Zhou asked.

Su Erlang complained, “Auntie Zhou, the Su family lost my second sister.”

Su Ergou was unhappy. He put his hands on his hips and said, “Hey, hey, hey! How can you say that? Who made Sister Yu Niang disappear?”

Su Erlang said, “Then where do you think my second sister went?”

“I…” Su Ergou choked.

“Look, you can't say it, right?” Su Erlang was smarter than his eldest brother.

He looked at the villagers around him and said aggrievedly, “Everyone, be the judge. My sister was recuperating with them. After she went missing, they even blamed us and asked where we were!”

Su Ergou said, “No! Who f*cking played the blame game? I was…”

Little Bully Su was good at fighting, but he was not as good at talking.

Father Su and his son-in-law were still picking vegetables in the fields. Only Su Xiaoxiao and the others were at home.

“Don't say that our Su Clan is bullying others.” Su Can said coldly, “Let Yu Niang out, and we'll pretend nothing happened!”

“Pretend?” Su Xiaoxiao said calmly, “What did our Su family do? Do we need your Su family to pretend that nothing happened? Who are you giving charity to?”

Su Ergou immediately straightened his back. “That's right! What's so great about your Su family? Do you think we're beggars?”

Su Can scolded, “But Yu Niang went missing from your family!”

Su Xiaoxiao looked at Su Can without blinking. “It's only been half a day. How can you be so sure that she's missing?”

Su Can choked.

Su Erlang said, “But Yu Niang disappeared from your house!”

“Wah!”

A baby's cry came from inside the house. Yuniang's child was so hungry that she cried. Madam Wu wanted to carry her to the Li family and ask Madam Zhao to help feed her.

Su Can hurriedly said, “The child is crying like this. He must be hungry. Quickly get Yuniang to come out!”

Su Ergou said, “I already said that Sister Yuniang is not at my house!”

“Speaking of which, where did Yuniang go? How can a mother abandon her child?”

“Did something happen?”

“That's right. It's already so late. It's time to go back.”

“Did she go back to your in-laws' house?”

“Would she go home without her baby?”

The villagers spoke one after another, and their guesses about Su Yuniang's whereabouts gradually became strange.

They could not be blamed for thinking too much. It was really strange.

Who would leave a one-month-old baby behind?

Chapter 163

Su Xiaoxiao said to Madam Wu, “Sister Wu, take the child to the Li family and let Sister Zhao feed him.”

“Alright.” Madam Wu nodded.

“This is my second sister's child!” Su Erlang blocked Madam Wu's path. “If you made my second sister disappear, who knows what you will do to my second sister's child?”

Su Ergou rolled up his sleeves. “Are you crazy? Do you want to fight?”

“What for?”

It was Su Cheng.

He had just returned from the Li family's field and was carrying a basket of freshly picked vegetables with Wei Ting.

When the two men at home appeared, Su Can and the others' arrogance clearly weakened.

However, very quickly, Su Can straightened his back again. “Su Cheng, where did your family hide Yuniang? With the villagers around, your Su family had better give us an explanation!”

Su Cheng looked into the room. “Is Yuniang not here?”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “In the morning, Sister Wu came back from washing the salted eggs and didn't see Yu Niang.”

Su Cheng frowned.

It was already night.

Wei Ting's cold and sharp gaze swept past Su Can and his son.

Su Can inadvertently turned his head and met Wei Ting's icy cold gaze.

Ordinary people were not used to making eye contact. Whether it was getting caught when looking at others or catching others looking at them, they would subconsciously dodge.

However, Wei Ting did not avert his eyes.

He seemed to be born with the unruliness and calmness of a superior being.

On the other hand, Su Can's heart skipped a beat under his oppressive gaze.

“Mother.”

The three little ones scurried over from next door.

“Don't bully my mother!”

Dahu said fiercely.

The three little bullies stood in front of Su Xiaoxiao fiercely.

The villagers were a little surprised.

It was already good enough that such young children did not cry in fear when they encountered such a huge formation. The few little fellows actually had the guts to stand in front of the entire village for their stepmother.

They were all children, but why was the difference so big?

Madam He thought of her son, Niudan. On the day the family separated, there was a scene in the central room and Niudan cried in the kitchen. He did not even dare to fart.

It was infuriating that Niudan couldn't even match up to two-and-half-year-old children.

Su Xiaoxiao patted their heads. “I'm fine. Go in with Father first. I'll be back soon.”

The three children looked at their fair and chubby mother, then at their crippled father. They nodded thoughtfully. It seemed that their mother was indeed better at fighting.

Su Cheng also said, “Son-in-law, go in first. Don't get hurt when we fight later!”

Wei Ting, who had been severely underestimated was speechless.

On the other side, Su Yuniang's child was crying. Su Xiaoxiao said to Su Ergou, “Ergou, accompany Sis Wu to the Li Family.”

“Yes!” Su Ergou agreed, grabbed the machete, and walked out.

Su Erlang was so frightened that his face turned pale. He thought to himself that he must not give in but had already given way meekly.

Su Ergou sent Little Wu to the Li family.

Madam Zhao fed the child and asked what had happened.

Madam Wu sighed. “Yuniang is missing.”

Mrs. Zhao said, “Just now, Ergou came to ask Father if he had seen Yu Niang leave the village.”

Madam Wu said, “That's right. We thought that Yuniang had gone to the government office to do something.”

As for what it was about, Little Wu did not say. Mrs. Zhao was not a gossipy person, so she tactfully did not probe further.

When Mdm Qian heard this from outside the door, her expression turned ugly. What did Su Yuniang's disappearance have to do with the Su family?

Su Yuniang had her own legs and feet. Could Daya tie her up?

Madam Qian was still brooding over Su Yuniang intercepting the midwife, but Madam Qian's impression of the Su family had long changed.

“Old man, go take a look.”

She called Old Li, “Call the village head too.”

Old Li was very surprised. “Why are you suddenly willing to meddle in other people's business today?”

Madam Qian was not someone who liked to join in the fun.

Madam Qian glared at him. “I'm not an ungrateful person!”

Although she did not say it out loud, she remembered how much Daya had helped their family.

Unfortunately, even the village head could not help with Su Yuniang's matter.

Su Xiaoxiao asked calmly, “You keep saying that I hid Yu Niang. Why would I hide her?”

Madam Zhou said sarcastically, “Are you afraid that Yuniang will recover and you won't be able to earn money, so you deliberately hid her for a few more days?”

Su Xiaoxiao looked at Su Can mockingly. “I think the Su family knows why Yu Niang moved into my house.”

Su Can's eyes flashed.

Madam Zhou chuckled and said, “Didn't you want to scam the consultation fees and deliberately make Yuniang's illness worse? That's why Yuniang had no choice but to stay in your house to recuperate?”

Su Xiaoxiao smiled faintly. “Oh, so that's what your Su family told the villagers.”

Su Can cleared his throat.

Aunt Liu suddenly said, “Ah, I remember something. In the morning, I seemed to have seen Yuniang's younger brother coming to look for Yuniang. They left from the back of the house! I was cooking in the kitchen at that time! I even called him! I asked him if he was looking for his eldest sister, but he didn't answer, but I saw him enter the kitchen of the Su family.”

Sun Sanlang been here!

Things had taken a turn!

The village head quickly asked Li Xiaoyong to call Su Sanlang over.

He had come with Su Jinniang and Madam Fang.

Ever since Su Xiaoxiao taught Su Jinniang a lesson and threatened her not to appear in front of her again, Su Jinniang had indeed not gone out for a few days.

There were many people today. Su Jinniang didn't believe that Su Xiaoxiao would do anything to her in public, so she mustered her courage and came over.

“Sanlang.” Su Xiaoxiao asked him, “Did you come to see your elder sister today?”

Everyone turned to look at him.

Su Sanlang was only ten years old. When had he ever encountered such a situation? He was so frightened that he hid behind Madam Fang.

The village head said, “Sanlang, don't be afraid. Just say what's on your mind.”

Su Sanlang looked timidly at his father and two brothers and nodded weakly.

The village head continued, “Did your eldest sister tell you where she was going?”

Su Sanlang shook his head.

Su Xiaoxiao asked, “Sanlang, who told you to look for your sister?”

Ever since Su Yuniang moved into the Su family, the Su family did not allow Su Sanlang to interact with her anymore. Therefore, there must be a reason for his sudden visit.

He hesitated, then whispered, “Grandpa sent me.”

Su Xiaoxiao asked, “Why did he ask you to look for your sister?”

“He asked me to bring Eldest Sis back,” he said.

Su Xiaoxiao asked again, “Did your sister go back with you?”

He hesitated for a moment before answering softly, “Yes.”

When the siblings returned, Aunt Liu did not see them. She went to cook.

Su Xiaoxiao paused, “Do you know why your grandfather asked your sister to go back?”

Su Sanlang shook his head. “Grandpa didn't say.”

Su Cheng raised his chin and snorted coldly. “Did you hear that? Yu Niang has returned to your Su family. You still came to our house to ask for her?”

Su Erlang said angrily, “My second sister did go back, but she took her things and left again!”

“Is that so, Sanlang?” Su Xiaoxiao looked at the ten-year-old child again.

Su Sanlang nodded slowly. “Eldest Sis seems to have quarreled with the family. She took a bundle and left in a hurry. I called out to her, but she ignored me. I saw her coming from the back… to your house.”

Su Xiaoxiao thought for a moment and asked, “Did you see her enter our house?”

He searched his memory. “Well, she went in the back door.”

Su Xiaoxiao's eyes turned cold.

Yuniang had returned?

Then, she disappeared again?

Was Su Sanlang lying, or was there something else going on?

Chapter 164

“Yuniang returned to the Su family. Other than San Lang, did anyone else see her?”

The person who spoke was Madam Qian.

Mdm Qian had never interfered in the village's matters. This was the first time she had stood up.

However, after thinking about it, it was not strange. After all, her daughter-in-law's child was delivered by Fatty Su, so she naturally sided with her.

Everyone looked at Auntie Liu.

Auntie Liu sighed. “I really didn't see it. I went to cook.”

“What about Meizi's mother? Isn't she working for the Su family?” a villager asked.

The Sun family's wife said, “She just said that she went to the river to wash her things! She wasn't around at that time!”

“Sanlang, is what you said true?” the village head asked.

Su Can was unhappy. “What do you mean, Village Head? Are you suspecting that we deliberately got Sanlang to lie? How old is he? Ten years old! Can we teach him like this?!”

The village head explained, “That's not what I meant…”

Su Can snorted coldly and said, “Little Su's family has become rich recently. I know you're close to Little Su's family, but you can't favor Little Su's family. Don't forget that if it weren't for our Su family back then, the entire village would have starved to death!”

As soon as these words were spoken, those who wanted to speak up for the Su family fell silent.

Although the village head was being rebuked, he still had to ask what he needed to ask. “Sanlang, after you saw your eldest sister enter the back door of the Su family, did you follow her?”

Su Sanlang shook his head. “I went back to the house.”

The village head continued, “In other words, you can't be sure of your sister's whereabouts after that?”

He froze.

Madam Qian snorted. “That's right. Perhaps Yuniang left on her own! She has her own hands and feet! Who can tie her up? They said that the Su family hid Yuniang. Where can they hide her? This place is only so big! The family went to town to do business! When Yuniang disappeared, they were not home! How could they hide her?”

The villagers finally experienced Aunt Qian's combat strength. She usually did not fight with others. It was not that she did not know how to fight, but that she looked down on them!

Look at this logic. There was nothing wrong with it!

Su Yuniang disappeared when Madam Wu went to the river to wash the salted eggs. At that time, there were others by the river to prove that Madam Wu had been washing them and had never left.

When Madam Wu returned to the Su family, Yuniang was already gone.

Su Xiaoxiao and Su Ergou came back around noon. Liu Ping was even later.

Which member of the Su family had the time to commit a crime?

Not to mention Father Su and Wei Ting, the two of them were learning how to farm in the Li family's vegetable field. Half of the villagers could testify.

Su Cheng raised his eyebrows arrogantly. “How is it? You have nothing to say, right? Do you want to go into the house and search? If you can find er, I, Su Cheng, will chop off my head and let you kick it like a ball!”

“I looked, and there is no one!”

It was actually Niudan.

He entered Little Su's house from the back door, searched around, and came out of the front door.

Madam He wished she could beat this silly son to death!

Was he speaking up for the Su Family? The more he lived, the worse he became!

Su Can stammered, “Maybe Yuniang went to town to look for you!”

Su Xiaoxiao sneered. “Have you forgotten that you asked Su Erlang to ask the village head and Uncle Li just now? You said yourself that Yuniang didn't leave the village.”

Su Can's face turned red, and Su Erlang could not say anything.

Su Xiaoxiao couldn't be bothered with the Su family anymore. She turned around and entered the house.

Su Erlang stopped her. “Fatty Su, where are you going?! You haven't explained yourself clearly!”

Su Xiaoxiao glared at him coldly. “Finding Yuniang is more important than slandering the Su family!”

Su Erlang choked and his face turned red.

Compared to outsiders, no one in Su Yuniang's family cared about Su Yuniang's whereabouts.

The villagers looked at the Su father and son with skeptical expressions.

Su Erlang muttered without much confidence, “Don't be hypocritical. You can't find her…”

Su Xiaoxiao had already entered the house.

Su Cheng: “Ergou! Close the door!”

“Aye!” Su Ergou immediately closed the door of their house.

“Everyone, go search too,” the village head said earnestly.

A few brave men stood up and said that they would go home to get an oil lamp before searching for Su Yuniang.

The Su family looked at each other.

Su Can said, “Let's hurry up and find them too.”

Su Jinniang looked toward the lit oil lamp in the Su family's house. Two figures were reflected on the window paper in the east room by the candlelight. They were hugging the child intimately.

She was so jealous that she dug her nails into her palms.

Xiao Hu suddenly said that he had a toothache. Wei Ting held him on his lap, and Su Xiaoxiao bent down to examine him.

“No problem.” Su Xiaoxiao said.

Xiaohu rolled his eyes. “My teeth hurt.”

Su Xiaoxiao smiled. “You just want me to watch over you, right?”

Children had their own way of protecting adults. It seemed that as long as she stayed in the room, she would not be bullied.

It was such a childish and touching thought.

Su Xiaoxiao touched his head. “Don't worry, I'll be fine. No one can bully me.”

Liu Ping's voice suddenly came from outside the house. “Uncle Su, Daya! The Su family has gone to the Li family to snatch the child!”

Su Xiaoxiao had heard it clearly in the Su family. They would not raise this child. Even if they snatched it, they would send it to the Zheng family.

The current Zheng family would not treat this child well.

Moreover, didn't they agree to look for Su Yuniang?

Why did they turn around and snatch the child?

“The Su family's reaction isn't right.” Su Xiaoxiao frowned.

Wei Ting hummed faintly.

Father Su said, “That's right! Damn it! He doesn't take his daughter's life seriously! He only knows how to fight with us!”

In Father Su's opinion, the Su family was trying to snatch the child because she had been living with their family.

Su Xiaoxiao didn't think so.

“Father, go over. We can't let them snatch the child away. I'll go to the Su family again and ask Sanlang.”

Father Su carried his machete to the Li family.

The men of the Su Family were all mobilized. Even Old Master Su was not around. They must have gone to snatch the child or to look for Su Yuniang with the villagers.

There were only Old Madam Su, Mdm Fang, Su Jinniang, and the ten-year-old Su Sanlang.

“What are you doing here?” Su Jinniang looked at her in surprise. “You came to me this time!”

In other words, she was implying that Su Xiaoxiao couldn't hit her since Su Xiaoxiao was the one who came to her house.

Su Xiaoxiao raised her hand.

Su Jinniang dodged to the side!

Su Xiaoxiao looked at her strangely. She was just pushing the door.

Su Sanlang and Mdm Fang were there, so she asked Mdm Fang too.

Mdm Fang said, “I don't know. I was cooking in the kitchen. Later, I was called over by my mother to find something for her. When I came out, Yuniang had already left.”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Do you know why Yuniang quarreled with the family?”

Madam Fang shook her head.

Su Xiaoxiao continued, “Do you really not know, or do you not dare to say?”

Chapter 165

“Aunt Fang, Yuniang is your daughter. In this family, no matter how others treat her, at least you and Sanlang treat her sincerely.”

Madam Fang hesitated for a moment and said in a low voice, “I… think I heard them mention divorce.”

Therefore, Su Yuniang quarreled with her family over the divorce. It was not difficult to guess the Su family's attitude. They definitely did not agree to it.

In the eyes of the Su family, reputation was the top priority. The rest had to make room.

Before the argument came to an end, Su Yuniang packed her bags and appeared to have left.

There was nothing more she could ask. She could only confirm that Madam was not lying.

There was another problem. Why did the Su family call Su Yuniang back at the beginning? They even secretly walked from the back.

“Zheng Lanxiu was here. Could it be that the Su family heard some news from Zheng Lanxiu and felt that Su Yuniang was embarrassing, so they secretly called Su Yuniang back to reprimand her?”

Su Xiaoxiao pondered and walked back to the Su family.

In the village, the villagers looked around with torches.

Madam Zhou mocked, “You said you cared about Yuniang, but you didn't look for her. You just wandered around the village. Those who don't know might think that you're wandering the streets!”

Su Xiaoxiao glanced at Madam Zhou.

Her cold gaze made Madam Zhou's heart skip a beat. She did not dare to nag anymore.

A villager said, “The few of you stay in the village. The rest will follow me to the mountain to take a look!”

The villagers started running around.

It was not that Su Xiaoxiao did not want to look for her, but she felt that Su Yuniang would not hide with any family in the village or run up the mountain for no reason.

Su Yuniang's disappearance was a mystery.

She felt that something had happened.

The three little ones looked around at the door. When they saw her return, they asked in a childish voice, “Mother, where's Auntie?”

Su Xiaoxiao said softly, “Auntie went out. Mother will find her later.”

Most of the time, she referred to herself in the first person. She would only call herself Mother when she comforted the three little ones. This was in line with Wei Ting's style.

A two-and-half-year-old child did not know much about blood relations. They only knew that their mother, father, grandfather, uncle, Auntie Su, and her little baby lived at home.

People who lived together were family.

Father Su, Su Ergou, Liu Ping, and Madam Wu returned.

Father Su snorted. “How dare Su Can and Su Erlang challenge me? I'll beat them to death!”

The truth was that Su Can and his son had run away in fear before they even started beating them up.

Father Su continued, “Your Aunt Qian said that we should leave the child at her house. She told us not to worry and that she would not let anyone snatch it away.”

Su Xiaoxiao nodded. “Alright.”

“What happened to Yuniang?” Father Su was puzzled.

Obviously, after spending some time together, Father Su figured out Su Yuniang's personality. She was definitely not someone who disappeared for no reason.

“Father, go to Zheng Lanxiu's house with Ergou and ask her if she said anything to the Su family during the day.”

“Alright!”

Father Su brought Su Ergou along.

Su Xiaoxiao also planned to go out and look for Su Yuniang.

As soon as she lifted her foot, the sound of a donkey came from the backyard.

The elders in the village said that donkeys liked to bark, but they had never heard their family's donkey bark since they bought it. At one point, they thought that they had bought a mute donkey.

“Daya.”

It was Wei Ting's voice.

Su Xiaoxiao turned back.

In the backyard, Wei Ting was holding a bag. There were some messy grass and wood shavings on the bag.

“Where did you get it?” she asked.

Wei Ting looked at the donkey that was slowly eating grass and said, “It dug it out; it was hidden in the pigpen.”

The pigpen was now a donkey's nest.

This donkey loved cleanliness and the pen had to be cleaned every day. In addition, it had a larger appetite than ordinary donkeys. If it was not fed, it would be irritable and tear down the house. Therefore, the donkey's nest was often filled with thick grass.

The bag was picked out of the grass by the donkey. This bag looked unfamiliar and did not look like something from home.

Su Xiaoxiao reached out to open the bag.

“I'll do it,” Wei Ting said.

He opened it warily and realized that there was only a pile of clothes and worldly possessions inside.

Su Xiaoxiao looked at him deeply. “Were you worried that there was a hidden weapon here? Were you afraid that it would hurt me?”

Wei Ting said coldly, “You talk too much.”

“Fine, you don't have to tell me.” Su Xiaoxiao took the bag and carefully flipped through it. “These are Yu Niang's personal clothes and… 50 taels of silver and another 50 taels of silver.”

It added up to a hundred taels.

This was a huge sum of money in the countryside. It had to be known that many families' annual income was less than five taels.

If it was Su Yuniang's, it would not be strange.

That woman was a rich lady.

Wait!

It was strange!

“Sanlang said that after Yu Niang and her family quarreled, she carried a bag and left in a hurry. He didn't even manage to stop her. I remember Yuniang telling me that her money was hidden in the Su Family. After her confinement, she wanted to find an opportunity to get it back.”

Wei Ting said, “You think this is the silver she brought back? Hidden in the pigpen?”

“You also think that something is wrong, don't you? First of all, Yuniang can't possibly hide something in… not a pigpen! It's a donkey's nest!” Su Xiaoxiao corrected him seriously.

Wei Ting shook his head helplessly. “Alright, it's a donkey's nest.”

Su Xiaoxiao continued, “Secondly, if Yuniang really went home to get her own money, then… it's definitely more than that.”

She had once boasted to Su Yuniang that she had earned 500 taels in the prefecture capital. At that time, Su Yuniang sneered and chuckled. “500 taels is enough to make you so happy. How promising!”

She asked Su Yuniang, “At least I have it, do you?”

Su Yuniang scoffed, “Much more than you!”

Of course, it could also be said that Su Yuniang was boasting. However, based on Su Xiaoxiao's observation and understanding of Su Yuniang, this little rich lady's private savings were definitely more than a hundred taels!

Since she had the chance to return to the Su family, how could she only bring back a hundred taels?

Did she expect to go back a second time?

In a flash, Su Xiaoxiao was enlightened.

“The person Sanlang saw wasn't Su Yuniang! Someone wearing Su Yuniang's clothes came out from the back door of Old Su's house and deliberately let Sanlang see it! San Lang probably didn't see her face. Sanlang called her, but she didn't dare to answer because her voice didn't sound like it!”

This could be verified with Su Sanlang.

However, Su Xiaoxiao felt that it was unnecessary.

Because she had already guessed what was going on.

Su Yuniang's disappearance was targeted at the Su family.

Once the “stolen goods” were found, they would claim that Su Yuniang was killed by the Su family because the Su family was greedy for money and tried to kill her.

Although no one in the Su family had the time to commit a crime, there were some killing methods that did not need to be done face to face.

Since the other party could create stolen goods, he must have thought of a way to commit the crime.

Su Xiaoxiao frowned. “Not good! Yuniang is in danger!”

Chapter 166

Su Xiaoxiao turned around and left.

“Where are you going?”

Wei Ting asked.

“I'll look for her on the mountain!”

She was definitely not in the village, nor should she be with the Zheng family. The most impossible place had actually become the largest hiding place.

Wei Ting frowned and did not say anything.

After Su Xiaoxiao left, Yuchi Xiu flashed into the room like a ghost.

He had just arrived. He was not interested in the missing person from the Su family. What did it have to do with him? He only cared about Wei Ting and the three little ones.

“Sir! Guess who I saw in town just now?”

Wei Ting ignored him.

He said to himself, “I actually saw Xiao Zhonghua at Wutong Academy! No wonder Young Marquis Jing appeared in town. He's escorting his cousin! Eh? Lord? Did you hear me? Xiao Zhonghua!”

Wei Ting's expression was cold.

Yuchi Xiu looked at him strangely. “Sir, what's wrong with you now? Why aren't you surprised that I found out about Xiao Zhonghua? Could it be that you already knew? No, you don't seem happy…”

“Get out,” Wei Ting said.

Yuchi Xiu walked out with his head down.

“I have a mission for you.”

Yuchi Xiu's eyes lit up. So We Ting didn't mean for him to scram, but for him to go out and carry out a mission.

Was he going to kill Xiao Zhonghua? Right, right?

He was cool, handsome, and arrogant. He was ranked second on the Assassin List. He should complete such a hellish mission!

Only then would he be worthy of his status!

Two breaths later, Yuchi Xiu walked out of the room with a look of despair.

Old Su's house, Su Jinniang had just taken off her coat and planned to rest.

Suddenly, the door was kicked open and Su Xiaoxiao rushed in.

“Fatty Su, you—ah—”

Before Su Jinniang could finish her sentence, Su Xiaoxiao grabbed her hair and threw her off the bed.

Su Jinniang saw stars.

Su Xiaoxiao didn't waste her breath on her. She grabbed her neck and lifted her up against the cold wall!

“Su Jinniang! Tell me honestly, where did Yuniang go?”

Her tone was cold, like a Rakshasa from purgatory.

Su Jinniang clearly felt that Su Xiaoxiao was really murderous this time. The last time she taught her a lesson, it was at most a small punishment.

This person was really strange. When she schemed against her, she was not that angry. She only had a little connection with Su Yuniang's disappearance, but she wanted to kill her.

Could it be that there were indeed people in the world who were not selfish?

She, Su Jinniang, did not believe it!

Fatty Su was after Su Yuniang's money!

Su Xiaoxiao said coldly, “Su Jinniang, my patience is limited.”

Su Jin's mother's eyes flickered. “I… How would I know where my sister went? Didn't she go missing in your house?”

Su Xiaoxiao unceremoniously threw the bag in her other hand to the ground.

“The person who went to my house was you, right?”

The bag and the items inside rolled on the ground. Su Jinniang looked at the mess on the ground and her expression changed.

“You don't understand what I'm saying, do you? Your brain is so useless. Why don't I dig it out for you to see if it's filled with straw?”

With that, Su Xiaoxiao pressed Su Jinniang's head on the table and casually took out the dagger that Wei Ting had given her. A cold aura spread to Su Jinniang's neck.

When others threatened, they would feint twice, but Su Xiaoxiao went for the kill immediately!

At the critical moment, Su Jinniang used her survival instincts and tilted her head to the side.

The dagger stabbed into the table!

A small cut was made on her cheek by the blade, and warm blood flowed out.

Su Jinniang was so frightened that her mind went blank!

Su Xiaoxiao pulled out the dagger from the table!

Su Jinniang cried out, “I really don't know… I'm not lying to you… I didn't take her out… I just hid a bag at your house…”

Su Xiaoxiao's dagger landed on the side of her head!

The cold blade reflected her disheveled appearance at this moment.

Su Xiaoxiao's gaze was even colder than the dagger. “As expected, it was your Su family! What else do you know?”

Su Jinniang was so frightened that her eyes turned red. “Grandpa… He only asked me to change into Big Sister's clothes and hide the bag… When I came back after hiding it… Big Sister was no longer around… I was telling the truth…”

Su Xiaoxiao thought about it and asked, “When you came back, was there anyone else not at home?”

Su Jin's mother stammered, “B-Brother.”

Su Xiaoxiao held the dagger. “Only him?”

Su Jin's mother's eyebrows twitched. “Grandpa! Grandpa isn't home either. He hasn't come back until now.”

It seemed that Old Master Su and Su Dalang were together with Su Yuniang. On one side, the grandfather and granddaughter, Su Yuniang, were hiding. On the other side, Su Can and his son were acting out a scene of a thief shouting for the thief to be caught.

How disgusting.

Su Xiaoxiao picked up the dagger and patted Su Jinniang's bloody face with the cold blade.

“Su Jinniang, if you hide anything from me today, I'll cut off your tongue when I come back!”

Su Jinniang shivered!

Su Xiaoxiao walked out of Old Su's house and looked at the dark night sky. The dark night seemed to have substance as it pressed down on this poor village.

How would Old Master Su deal with Su Yuniang?

In a narrow cage, Su Yuniang slowly woke up.

Her hands and feet were tied, and her mouth was gagged.

“Woo… Woo…”

She tried to make a sound and banged her head against the box, oblivious to the pain.

“Open the box.”

When Su Yuniang heard this familiar voice, her body froze.

The box was opened, and there was no light in the house. The snow outside the house that had yet to be melted reflected a little light.

When Su Yuniang saw the person in the room, her expression changed from shock to numbness.

Old Master Su, who was sitting on the chair, said, “Yuniang, I'll give you one last chance. Are you going back to the Zheng family?”

Su Yuniang did not react.

Su Dalang was standing beside Old Master Su. He said anxiously, “Sister, quickly agree to Grandpa!”

Tears flashed in Su Yuniang's eyes. She stubbornly held back her tears.

Old Master Su said in a deep voice, “Our Su family can't afford to be disgraced. Either you return to the Zheng family, or I'll send you away tonight. With your crimes, it's not an exaggeration to drown you in a pig cage.”

Su Yuniang's mouth was gagged and she could not speak, but her red and swollen eyes were filled with endless mockery.

Zheng Yuanbo had betrayed her. Zheng Yuanbo had brought a woman home. Yet she had to be the one being drowned in a pig cage.

Why?

Was it because she was the first person in the village to divorce her husband's family?

In places like the capital and the provincial capital, people were relatively open-minded. A released woman's reputation was better than that of a divorced woman.

It was different in the countryside.

A woman proposing a divorce with a man was committing serious treason!

If she lorded over a man, she would bring shame to the entire family!

Chapter 167

For the first time, Su Yuniang felt that her grandfather was so unfamiliar.

He used to be the elder she respected the most, but now she realized that he was hypocritical.

Great philanthropist?

Yes, he was a kind person who would rather force his own granddaughter to death to protect his reputation. How ironic.

Old Master Su said, “Take the cloth out of her mouth.”

Brother Su did as he was told.

Old Master Su looked at Su Yuniang coldly. “You can say it now. Do you agree or not?”

Su Yuniang asked, “Where does Grandfather plan to send me?”

Her address had changed.

Old Master Su did not care about how she addressed him, but he was not surprised by her answer. It was as if he had expected this outcome.

On the other hand, Eldest Brother Su was anxious. “Sister! You're crazy! We're doing this for your own good! Why did you walk all the way to the dark side?! Did Fatty Su lead you astray? I realized that ever since you got close to her, you've become more and more rebellious! Think about your background and hers! Her father is a beggar! Her mother was expelled from the Chen family! How can she be a good person?”

“She's always showing her face to the outside world and learning how to do business like a man. She's not ashamed at all! How can you learn from her? Did she teach you to divorce the Zheng family? It was her idea, right?”

Eldest Brother Su suggested all sorts of nonsense.

Su Yuniang refuted, “It was my own idea! Also, what's wrong with her birthright? We're all farmers in the countryside. Who's nobler than whom?”

Su Dalang said proudly, “Our Su family is not something that those beggars can compare to!”

Su Yuniang said coldly, “The Su family is much stronger than you!”

Old Master Su scolded sternly, “Enough! Dalang! Send her away!”

“Grandpa!” Su Dalang's expression changed drastically. He said to Su Yuniang, “Didn't you just ask where you were going to be sent to? Did you think that you would be sent to a relative's house for a while? You're wrong! You're going to be sent to a nunnery, and your head will be shaved as a nun! It's not our town's nunnery, but the one in Clearwater County, which is a hundred miles away! The people there are all sinful women. There are people guarding them. If you go, you can forget about coming out for the rest of your life!”

Su Yuniang's expression changed.

“Grandfather, I was wrong! I'll go back to the Zheng family! I'll listen to you!”

The most important thing now was to stabilize her grandfather!

Old Master Su said, “Shut her mouth!”

“Grandpa!” Su Dalang couldn't bear it.

Old Master Su said sternly, “Can't you tell that she's giving in with an agenda? What are you waiting for? Are you waiting for me to do it personally?”

No, her grandfather's reaction was wrong!

She admitted that she was using a stalling tactic, but her grandfather's attitude was too unyielding!

He had just said he would compromise as long as she agreed. Now that she had agreed, he would not keep his promise!

Su Yuniang looked at Old Master Su in horror. “Grandfather! Are you trying to frame the Su family?”

Her grandfather asked her third brother to secretly bring her to their house. No one saw her along the way. Everyone probably thought that she had disappeared from the Su family.

Su Yuniang was too smart. She was so smart that if she were a man, Old Master Su would definitely spare no effort to nurture her.

What a pity.

Su Yuniang wanted to call for help, but Su Dalang had already covered her mouth.

Then, Su Dalang took out a handkerchief smeared with medicinal powder and covered her mouth and nose. Her vision darkened and she fainted.

“Go to the ferry tonight. Be careful on the way.”

“Got it, Grandpa.” Su Dalang still couldn't bear to part with his sister, but when he thought about how his sister had indeed done something treasonous, he felt that this was the punishment his sister deserved, just as his grandfather had said.

Everyone in the village was searching around Apricot Flower Village. Little did they know that Su Yuniang had already been taken on a detour from Willow Village to town.

This abandoned straw hut was located at the place where the two towns met. It was only two to three miles away from the ferry service area.

However, there were too few ferries recently, so they had no choice but to wait until night.

When Su Dalang carried Su Yuniang to the dock, the timing was just right.

The boat was about to sail.

Su Dalang gave the money and said to the middle-aged couple rowing the boat, “You must send her there!”

The woman smiled. “Don't worry. We have a good reputation!”

Su Dalang frowned. On second thought, the person his grandfather had found should be reliable. His grandfather would not harm Yuniang.

Just as Su Dalang was about to hand Su Yuniang over from the sack, a tall figure suddenly descended from the sky. With a swift flip, he landed on the ship.

He was dressed in black and wore a black bamboo hat. What greeted them was a lonely and profound back view!

The boatman had seen much of the world. He composed himself and asked: “This hero is…”

The man in black only said, “You're not worthy of talking to me!”

With that, he stomped his feet and rose into the air. The huge internal force caused the ship to shatter into pieces!

Before they could react, he had already arrived in front of Su Dalang. He grabbed the sack and threw Su Dalang into the water!

The couple's vision blurred, and the boat was empty.

“Did anyone really come here just now?”

As soon as the boatman finished speaking, a force struck them, mercilessly shaking the two of them into the water.

“God was here.”

A certain man in black said domineeringly.

In Apricot Flower Village, the villagers searched all night and everywhere they could, but Su Yuniang was nowhere to be seen.

At the same time, there were some ill-meaning voices in the village.

“Have you heard? Yuniang went to the Su family with a large sum of money that day.”

“What do you mean?”

“Tsk, you. Yuniang is gone. Where do you think the silver went?”

“You mean… the Su Family is trying to kill her for money?”

“Shh, keep your voice down.”

“That's not right. Weren't all the people from the Su family in town? How did they harm Yuniang? Yuniang disappeared before they returned.”

“It was Little Wu who said that after she washed the salted eggs and went back, there was no one at home. She hasn't seen Yu Niang since. What if… Little Wu is lying?”

“Little Wu is an honest person. How could she lie?”

“Little Wu is Fatty Su's woman. Of course, she lied for Fatty Su! Perhaps she also split the money! She's also an accomplice!”

“Aunt Zhou, who are you calling an accomplice?”

Su Xiaoxiao's voice suddenly appeared behind them. Madam Zhou and the daughter-in-law of the Sun family, who were gossiping, were shocked!

Madam Zhou loosened her grip and the bucket of water that she had painstakingly drawn fell back into the well!

Su Xiaoxiao also came to fetch water.

She walked over casually and glanced at Madam Zhou. She said bluntly, “Make way.”

Madam Zhou said, “I'm not done yet! Why are you snatching?”

Su Xiaoxiao gently placed the bucket on the well.

It was clearly a very casual action, but it inexplicably made one's heart skip a beat.

Madam Zhou subconsciously took a step back. She thought about it and felt embarrassed. She said, “Fatty Su, why are you so arrogant? Your good days are over! A life for a life! Just wait to be thrown into the county jail!”

Chapter 168

At this moment, more people had come to the village entrance to get water. The villagers who had gone around looking for Su Yuniang also rushed back.

Everyone gathered at the village entrance. When they heard Madam Zhou and Fatty Su's conversation, they could not help but surround them.

When Madam Zhou saw that her fellow villagers were here, she felt more confident.

She raised her voice and said, “Fatty Su, you know very well what you've done. To think that Yuniang treated you as a doctor and believed you. She even spent so much consultation money to move into your house, but you're greedy and don't know what's good for you. You harmed Yuniang for money!”

“What do you mean for money?” Auntie Wu asked. “Sister Xiao Zhou, you can eat whatever you want, but you can't talk nonsense.”

“I'm not spouting nonsense!” Madam Zhou snorted coldly. “Everyone doesn't know, right? Yesterday, Su Yuniang took a large sum of silver to Little Su's house! She disappeared at night! Tell me, if it's not Fatty Su and the others who killed her for money, what could it be?”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Oh, how did you know she took the silver to my house? Did you see it?”

Madam Zhou said, “We'll know once we search your house!”

Su Xiaoxiao's eyes turned cold. “Search my house? Zhou, I think you're tired of living!”

Madam Zhou was so frightened by Little Bully Su's aura that she took a big step back. She said fiercely, “You, you, you, you're feeling guilty, right? If you have a clear conscience, why don't you let us search you? I think you… you hid Yu Niang's silver! You're afraid that we'll find it!”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “If you doubt me today, you can search my house. If you doubt me tomorrow, do I have to open the door and welcome you in? What do you take my Su family for?”

“What happened?”

“Village Head!”

It was Elder Su.

The village head also searched for the entire night. On the way, he bumped into Old Master Su, who had come down from the mountain.

The ages of the two men added up to more than a hundred years old. They were not like young men. After a night without sleep, they looked extremely haggard.

Especially the village head. He was clearly much younger than Old Master Su, but he looked much more tired than Old Master Su.

The person who asked the question just now was the village head.

Li Xiaoyong said, “Aunt Zhou slandered Daya, saying that Daya harmed Yuniang.”

Madam Zhou exploded. “What do you mean by slandering her? I'm telling the truth! If you don't believe me… If you don't believe me, ask Old Master Su! Did Yu Niang leave with a large sum of money?!”

Old Master Su wanted to say something but hesitated.

The village head said, “Brother Su, just say it.”

Old Master Su said with a complicated expression, “Yuniang's valuables… are indeed missing.”

Madam Zhou hurriedly said, “Did you hear that!”

Su Xiaoxiao chuckled, “Just because of this, you say that I killed her for money? If you have the ability to solve cases, why don't you go to the government office to be judges?”

“You!” Madam Zhou was so angry that she fell backward.

Su Xiaoxiao continued, “Speaking of Yuniang carrying silver, I remember something. Sanlang said that he heard Yuniang quarreling with her family before Yuniang left. Why couldn't you have murdered Yuniang?”

“Yuniang is a member of our Su family! How can we harm her?”

It was Su Can.

He and Su Erlang came over from outside.

He looked at Old Master Su. “Father, we just went to the Zheng family. Yu Niang didn't return to her in-laws' house.”

Su Xiaoxiao raised her eyebrows. “Then tell me, what are you arguing about with Yuniang?”

“Noisy…” Su Can was about to talk about the divorce, but he stopped himself when he caught Old Master Su's gaze.

He said, “We wanted Yuniang to come back, but she refused to come back. She said that you wanted her to treat her for a few more days. You told her that if she came back early and did not address the root of her illness, you wouldn't be responsible! We said that you were most likely scaring her. Yuniang was bewitched by you, and she wouldn't listen to us no matter what! She took the silver to pay for your consultation!”

“I was wrong.” Su Xiaoxiao apologized sincerely.

Everyone was stunned. Was she admitting her culpability?

Su Xiaoxiao continued, “You shouldn't be judges. You should be storytellers.”

At first, the villagers did not understand. After a while, they realized that Fatty Su was mocking the Su family for making things up.

“Pfft!”

Aunt Liu could not help but laugh. When Old Master Su looked at her with a dark expression, she quickly stopped smiling and looked into the distance with a serious expression.

Su Can said, “Father, in my opinion, they're the ones who harmed Yuniang!”

The reason why the Su family dared to slander Su Daya so brazenly was that they knew her personality. Su Yuniang had lived there for many days, but Su Daya's family did not say anything that they should not have.

In order to protect Su Yuniang's reputation, Su Daya's family did not expose the truth of Su Yuniang's departure from home, nor did they publicize the scandal between Su Yuniang and Zheng Yuanbo.

Therefore, Su Daya's family would definitely suffer in silence!

Of course, even if Su Daya's family revealed the truth, they were not afraid. Both sides had their own opinions. Did the villagers believe in the Su family which had done evil, or the Su family which had done the village a favor?

Su Xiaoxiao said, “We didn't harm Yu Niang.”

Su Can said, “Whether you did or not, won't we know after a search?”

Madam Zhou chimed in, “That's right. If you were innocent, would you not dare to let us search you? Don't you agree?”

The human heart was the most easily incited.

The villagers saw the change in the Su family and their complaints about the Su family decreased a lot. However, this matter concerned the other Su family…

It was obvious who was more important.

The villagers fought to speak.

“Fatty, just let them search.”

“That's right. If you didn't do it, you can also prove your innocence, right?”

“She doesn't dare to let us search. Could it be like what Aunt Zhou said? Is there really something going on?”

“Stop stalling for time! When the Su family hears the commotion and moves the stolen goods, we won't be able to find anything!”

This was about human life; it was about the life of a Su family member. They could not even repay the favor of the Su family with their lives. They had to seek justice for the Su family!

After that, the villagers rushed toward the Su family.

A trace of smugness flashed across Su Can and Su Erlang's eyes as they quickly followed.

They thought to themselves that Fatty Su would be caught red-handed soon. They would see how she was going to quibble then!

“Aiya, you guys…” The village head tried to stop them, but unfortunately, he couldn't stop them at all.

Li Xiaoyong caught up. He was not looking for stolen goods, but to prevent the villagers from causing trouble in the Su family.

All this while, Su Xiaoxiao calmly fetched water.

Old Master Su was old and naturally could not rush forward like young people.

He looked at Su Xiaoxiao suspiciously.

Su Xiaoxiao didn't know where they hid it. She thought that she was innocent, so she wasn't afraid of being searched. Her reaction was reasonable.

However, for some reason, he felt that something was amiss. An uneasy feeling rose in his heart.

In Old Su's house, Su Jinniang woke up in a daze. Last night, Su Xiaoxiao came to interrogate her and knocked her out. The next time she opened her eyes was the present moment.

God…

Was it almost dawn?

Oh no, she had to tell his father quickly that the matter of Yuniang's belongings had been exposed!

Su Jinniang lifted the blanket and got out of bed. She was so nervous that she was wearing her shoes on the wrong side.

She opened the door and saw Madam Fang coming out of the kitchen.

Madam Fang did not sleep the entire night either. Her eyes were red from crying.

When Su Xiaoxiao came to question Su Jinniang last night, she and Old Madam Su had also gone to look for Yuniang nearby and did not hear anything from Su Jinniang's room.

Su Jinniang looked at the haggard Madam Fang. There was no heartache in her eyes. Instead, she felt that her mother was very useless. She did not want to be like her mother in the future.

She asked, “Mother, are Father and Second Brother back?”

Mdm Fang said, “He went to Little Su's house. I think your grandfather went too.”

Su Jinniang turned pale. “What?”

Su Can, who had no idea what was going on, was gloating. When he found the bag in the pigpen later, he would see how the Su family would deny it!

The front door of the Su family's house was locked, so they went in through the back door.

While the villagers started searching from the kitchen and the backyard, Su Can rushed into the pigpen without thinking.

However, to his surprise, the pigpen was clean. Other than a donkey, there was not even a blade of grass!

Didn't she say it was hidden in the feed?

Where was the feed?

Where were the haystacks?

Where was the bag?

“Are you looking for this?”

Su Xiaoxiao also came in from the back door.

She leaned against the door frame of the kitchen nonchalantly, a bundle hooked between her fingertips.

Su Can's eyes lit up. “It's Yuniang's bag! It's really at your house! Guys, look! We found the stolen goods!”

Su Xiaoxiao smiled coldly.

Su Can took three quick steps forward to snatch the bag.

Unexpectedly, before his hand could touch her, a familiar figure walked out from behind Su Xiaoxiao.

“Dad.” Su Yuniang spoke.

Su Can froze on the spot!

Chapter 169

Everyone looked at Su Yuniang, who had appeared out of thin air in front of them, and their jaws almost dropped.

Su Can was completely dumbfounded. Su Erlang was similar to his father. He did not expect to see Su Yuniang again in the village.

Wasn't she sent away?

Why did she return to the Su family again?

Su Yuniang was wearing a black cloak that looked like a man's clothes. However, no one cared about this detail at this juncture.

Her forehead was bruised, and her cheeks were stained with grass and dust. She looked a little disheveled.

Aunt Liu asked, “Yuniang, where did you go last night? Everyone looked for you all night.”

Su Yuniang said tiredly, “Something happened. I came back late.”

Li Xiaoyong turned to look at the villagers and said, “Look! Su Yuniang is here! Who said that the Su family is trying to kill her for money? If you have the ability, come out and say it again!”

Everyone looked at Mdm Zhou. Just now at the village entrance, she was the one who kept saying that the Su family had harmed Su Yuniang.

Madam Zhou panicked. “I… I heard it from someone else!”

“Who did you hear that from?” Aunt Liu asked angrily.

“I…”

Madam Zhou choked and pointed at Su Can and his son. “I heard it from them!”

Su Erlang's eyebrows twitched. “When did we say that?”

Madam Zhou stammered, “You, you said that Yuniang left with a large sum of silver. Could it be that the Su family saw the silver and harmed Yuniang? I heard everything through the wall!”

Su Xiaoxiao wanted to laugh.

The Su family was really scheming. They did not even let Madam Zhou off.

What Madam Zhou heard was exactly what the Su family wanted her to hear. Then, they would use her mouth to spread the news.

Madam Zhou cursed silently. What was wrong with the Su family? How could they be wrong?!

Su Xiaoxiao went back to the kitchen to get a pancake. She leaned lazily against the door frame and ate it slowly.

The show today would not end anytime soon. After all, the main character had yet to arrive.

At this time, Old Master Su arrived at the Su family's house. The Su family's door was tightly shut. The village head thought for a moment and knocked.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Brother Li, please open the door.”

“Hey!” Li Xiaoyong walked through the central room and opened the door for the two of them.

The two of them had just entered the central room when Su Jinniang arrived, panting.

“Grandpa!”

She screamed in panic.

Old Master Su frowned unhappily. “Why are you shouting so early in the morning? Look at you.”

Su Jinniang had come out in a hurry. Not only were her shoes worn backward, but she had also not combed her hair or buttoned her shirt properly. She looked disheveled.

The village head hurried into the house.

See no evil, see no evil!

Su Jinniang said with a pale face, “Grandpa, I…”

Old Master Su scolded, “Go back now!”

Su Jinniang said anxiously, “Grandpa, Grandpa!”

Old Master Su went in.

Then he froze.

Because he saw Su Yuniang.

“Yuniang?” Unlike Old Master Su's reaction, the village head was very surprised. “Yuniang, where did you go yesterday?”

Su Yuniang wrapped her cloak tightly around her body and looked at Old Master Su, who was standing at the back door of the central room, with a complicated gaze. “I'm afraid you have to ask my grandfather this question. Only he knows best where I was taken.”

Su Yuniang's words confused the villagers. Where was she taken to? Why did they have to ask Old Master Su?

“Were you taken away by your grandfather?” Li Xiaoyong asked.

He had long lost his filter on the Su family's benevolent people. He was one of the first people who dared to question the Su family's morals.

Su Can finally came back to his senses. He hurriedly shouted, “Yuniang, what nonsense are you talking about?! You went missing on your own. What does it have to do with your grandfather?!”

Su Yuniang laughed mockingly. “I went missing on my own? That's good. I'll come and tell the villagers today how I went missing on my own!”

Old Master Su's face darkened.

“Yuniang, shut up!” Su Can took a step forward.

Su Xiaoxiao took out a machete. Su Can's body trembled and he jumped back!

Su Yuniang looked at the villagers squeezed in the courtyard. Her bloodshot eyes were filled with determination. “Does everyone think that I moved into the Su family to recuperate? Bullsh*t!”

Everyone was shocked.

Sh-sh*t?

Was this what the daughter of the Su family would say?

Wasn't it said that she was the most well-mannered girl in the village?

The faces of the Su family members turned as black as the bottom of a pot.

As Su Yuniang cursed, the turbid anger in her heart seemed to follow.

Actually, she had wanted to say these words for a long time. It was just that she still had the last bit of feelings for the Su family. However, last night, the last bit of feelings was personally cut off by her family!

“I divorced Zheng Yuanbo!”

The villagers' jaws dropped to the ground.

Divorced?

Su Yuniang? The Su family's Su Yuniang?

Regarding the reason for the divorce, Su Yuniang had skipped it. It was not important.

“Before the divorce, in order to force me back to the Zheng family, my family snatched my child and wanted to send it to the Zheng family. I was suicidal then. It was Daya who arrived in time to save the child and me and took me in. This is the truth behind my stay in the Su family!”

Su Can gritted his teeth and said, “Su Yuniang, what nonsense are you making up? Did Su Daya force you?”

Su Yuniang did not care about her fierce father at all. “After that, I divorced Zheng Yuanbo. Yesterday, my family found out about my divorce and tricked me home… ”

Old Master Su said in a deep voice, “Shut up!”

Su Yuniang said indignantly, “Why should I shut up? You can do it, but can't I say it out loud? Just because I have embarrassed you, Grandfather, you asked Big Brother to knock me out and secretly send me to a nunnery a hundred miles away to shave my head and become a nun! Then, you even tried to frame the Su family! You wanted the Su family to take the blame!”

“In your eyes, the life and death of your biological granddaughter is not important. The reputation of the Su family is more important! For the sake of your reputation, you will do anything!”

“Enough!” Old Master Su punched the wall. The veins on his forehead bulged. It was obvious how angry he was.

He scolded her angrily, “Su Yuniang! The Su family gave birth to you and raised you. The kindness of giving birth to you is greater than the heavens. You committed treason and should have shaved your head as a nun! Did I do anything wrong?”

Su Xiaoxiao laughed. “If you want to shave her head, just do it openly! Do we not have a nunnery in town? Why did you send her a hundred miles away? You want Yuniang to disappear forever and let our Su family suffer eternal injustice. Old Man Su, your heart is really black.”

Su Erlang said sternly, “We didn't do anything wrong! You're the one who's wrong! If you hadn't urged Yu Niang day and night, would my second sister have done such a treacherous thing? Shouldn't you be punished?”

Su Xiaoxiao sneered, “By punishment, do you mean we should be framed and take the blame for your Su family?”

Chapter 170

Su Erlang clenched his fists and said, “It was my idea and my father's. Grandpa didn't know!”

Su Can was stunned.

Su Erlang lowered his eyes and gritted his teeth. “Grandpa just… sent Yu Niang away with Eldest Brother. I was filled with hatred, so I thought of a way with Father to avenge the Su family.”

With that, he turned around and knelt down in front of Old Master Su.

“Grandpa, I was the one who came up with the idea. Punish me!”

When Su Can saw his son kneeling, he also reacted and knelt beside his son. He said to Old Master Su, “No, no, no, Father, it was my idea! You punish me! Erlang has been weak since he was young and almost died a few times. He can't withstand our family rules!”

The father and son echoed each other and removed Old Master Su from blame completely.

Old Master Su was the head of the Su family and was the most respected figure in the surrounding villages.

If he was not implicated, the Su family's reputation could still be saved.

Everyone had a deep understanding of the Su family. Back then, when they were helping the villagers, Old Master Su was also there. He and his father transported the food back in carts and distributed it from door to door. They ate the chaff themselves and did not let the villagers go hungry.

Those who had experienced that disaster were all deeply indebted to the Su family.

As long as Old Master Su did not admit it, they were unwilling and did not dare to question him.

“Go home and kneel,” Old Master Su said in a deep voice.

“Yes, Grandpa.” Su Erlang pulled Su Can's sleeve.

The father and son helped each other up.

Old Master Su said to the village head, “I didn't bring them up well and almost wronged the Su family. It's my fault.”

“Ah, this…” The village head scratched his head.

Old Master Su then looked at Su Xiaoxiao. “Daya, when your father comes back, I will personally visit and apologize. But Yuniang…”

Su Yuniang leaned closer to Su Xiaoxiao.

She took a brave step forward, but the reverence she had for Old Master Su still existed.

Perhaps in the near future, she could completely abandon him.

However, she was still affected.

Su Xiaoxiao gently held her shoulder and said to Old Master Su, “Yuniang has divorced her husband's family. According to the laws of the Great Zhou Dynasty, if the divorced woman is accepted by her family, she can return to her family or establish her own family!”

Old Master Su's expression changed when he heard that.

Su Xiaoxiao didn't give him any respect. “Old Man Su, do you want to stay here and continue to settle the score between us, or do you want to leave Yuniang here and take your son and grandson back?”

He had already embarrassed himself enough today. The more he said, the more mistakes he would make. Old Master Su could not stay any longer.

Otherwise, if he revealed a new flaw, there would really be no way to remedy it.

He looked at Su Yuniang coldly and left!

Now that Su Yuniang had returned safely and the commotion was over, it was time for the villagers to go back and digest the gossip they had witnessed today.

However, since the villagers were kind enough to look for Su Yuniang for the entire night, Su Yuniang was grateful and bought all of Su Xiaoxiao's snacks today. When they were out of the pot, she would send them to everyone.

Coincidentally, at this moment, Little Wu steamed the snacks.

A rich crispy fragrance and the fragrance of meat wafted out from the kitchen. The villagers drooled.

Su Yuniang's gratitude was not fake. It was also true that she knew how to win people over.

“Sigh, Yuniang, you're such a good girl. The Zheng family is not blessed. Don't think too much. Live your life well.”

“Don't go to a place like a nunnery if you can avoid it. You even have a daughter.”

“Your little girl is out of confinement, right? When the weather is good, carry her out for a walk.”

“Sigh, your grandfather went overboard this time… Speaking of which, how did you come back?”

“It was Daya who saved me,” Su Yuniang said.

“It's all thanks to you this time.”

“Sigh, Daya, I'm sorry. I was a little anxious today. I shouldn't have distrusted you. If there's a next time… I won't do it again! I promise!”

The other villagers also apologized to Su Xiaoxiao.

“Look, it's not like I didn't gain anything. At least in the future, it won't be easy for the Su family to frame us.”

After sending off the villagers, Su Yuniang sat on the threshold of the kitchen tiredly.

“Who brought you back?” Su Xiaoxiao asked.

She was looking for Su Yuniang when she suddenly heard a thud from the back door. She opened it and saw Su Yuniang sitting at the door in a daze.

“A man,” Su Yuniang said.

Su Xiaoxiao thought about it, “My father?”

Su Yuniang said lightly, “Not an old man.”

Su Cheng, who had just returned from searching outside was speechless.

Su Cheng, who had just celebrated his thirty-seventh birthday was speechless for a long while.

Su Yuniang frowned. “Actually, I didn't see his face clearly…”

“Oh.” Su Xiaoxiao's gaze fell on Su Yuniang's cloak.

Su Yuniang had been drugged twice, but the aftereffects of the drug were still there. Her mind seemed to be wrapped in mush, and she could not think too much.

“I'll go back to the house first. My baby…”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “She's in the Li family. Sister Zhao is feeding her.”

Su Yuniang did not say anything else. She held her aching waist and returned to her room.

She was about to take off her clothes when she raised her arm. Something was wrong.

She looked down and her expression changed slightly.

She was actually wearing a man's cloak!

She took off her cloak and threw it on the ground!

Which stinky man's thing was this?

Su Xiaoxiao returned to the east room.

Wei Ting looked like he had just woken up. He sat on the chair and tidied his clothes. He wore the jade hair crown that Su Xiaoxiao had given him.

It was not real jade, but even if it was a stone, it looked like real jade on this man's head.

It was said that clothes maketh the man. Why was it the other way around when it came to him?

It was early in the morning, and she was attacked by his looks. Anyone who looked at her would know.

Su Xiaoxiao walked into the house and looked to her heart's content. She said calmly, “You sure slept well after such a big thing happened.”

Wei Ting chuckled. “Didn't you ask me to stay at home to look after the children?”

Su Xiaoxiao smiled. “You sent him, right?”

“What?” Wei Ting pretended not to understand.

Su Xiaoxiao's eyes lit up. “The person who saved Yuniang. Do you have… a guard hiding in the dark? He's…”

“What?” Wei Ting asked.

The guard was just like Jing Yi's four colored subordinates; they were elusive and appeared at his beck and call.

Su Xiaoxiao thought about it and decided not to reveal Jing Yi's background. After all, Jing Yi had saved her. Jing Yi was her true friend, and this guy was only her husband in name!

“I don't understand,” Wei Ting said coldly.

Su Xiaoxiao snorted, “Forget it if you don't want to admit it!”

Some things did not need evidence. Su Xiaoxiao was not stupid. It was most likely him!

Su Xiaoxiao suddenly bent down and kissed him on the cheek.

“It's your reward!”

Wei Ting squeezed his knuckles. “You!”

With a cold expression, he turned around in embarrassment. “Su…”

Whoosh! Whoosh!

Su Xiaoxiao, who had been tired all night, lay on the bed and fell asleep.

Wei Ting stood up with a cold expression and looked murderously at a certain fat peacock that had offended him time and time again. His slender jade-like hand gently pulled the blanket over her.

Chapter 171

Compared to the peace and quiet of Su Xiao Xiao's family, the Su family could be said to have exploded.

No one expected things to turn out like this. They had clearly planned it, but what had gone wrong?

Why did they mess it up in front of the villagers?

If not for Su Erlang being smart and taking responsibility, the Su family's reputation would probably have been ruined.

Old Master Su sat in the central room with a livid expression.

Su Can and Su Erlang had ugly expressions.

Su Can was puzzled. “I don't understand. Dad, didn't you send Yuniang away? Why is she back?”

This was also something that Old Master Su could not figure out. He had personally seen Su Dalang carry her to the ferry.

That place was at least ten to twenty miles away from the village. With Su Yuniang's strength after her confinement, she could not have walked back in the dark.

Su Jinniang walked silently toward her room.

“Stop.” Old Master Su stopped her.

Su Jinniang turned around in fear and lowered her head, not daring to look at him. “Grandpa.”

Old Master Su looked at her obvious expression and asked in a low voice, “Do you know something?”

“I…” Su Jinniang bit her lip and whispered, “Fatty Su came to look for me last night. She… she found that bag and asked if I pretended to be Sister to hide the bag at her house.”

Su Can was shocked. “Why didn't you say so earlier!”

Su Jinniang said aggrievedly, “I was knocked unconscious by Fatty Su. When I woke up, I went to look for you, but…”

However, at the entrance of Little Su's house, Old Master Su did not give her a chance to speak.

If he had known this news in advance, Old Master Su would have stopped Su Can and his son from slandering the Su family.

That way, things would not have ended up like this.

Knowing that he had made a huge mistake, Old Master Su closed his eyes in regret.

Su Can suddenly said, “By the way, Dad, Yuniang is back. Where's Dalang?”

Su Dalang only arrived home at noon. He was kicked into the water by the man in black who had appeared for no reason. He drank a stomach full of ice water. When he was pulled ashore by the boatman and his wife, he almost lost half his life.

It was not that he did not know how to swim, but he could not swim at all in such thick clothes in winter.

He thought that he had suffered in the water, but his troubles had just begun.

The couple complained that he had offended someone he shouldn't have provoked and asked him to compensate them for their boat!

How could Su Dalang have money?

The boatman and his wife refused to let him go and even threatened to arrest him to see the officials.

Su Dalang was frightened out of his wits. In the end, under the “forgiveness” of the boatman and his wife, he signed an IOU and was released by the two of them.

When Old Master Su heard this, how could he not understand that his grandson had been extorted?

That couple had done something shameful. If they really reported it to the officials, the two of them would have to spend the rest of their lives in prison!

As long as Su Dalang insisted that he did not know that person, the boatman and his wife could not do anything to him.

If it were Su Yuniang, she would not have fallen for this.

Thinking of Su Yuniang, Old Master Su felt even more stifled.

“Dalang, how much did they ask you to compensate?” Su Can asked.

Su Dalang lowered his head. “Five, five hundred taels.”

“What?” Su Can's vision darkened and he fainted on the chair…

It was noon when Su Xiaoxiao woke up.

She stretched, feeling energetic.

It was not that she had not survived the night in the past, but no matter how long she slept, she still felt a trace of fatigue when she woke up.

She was extremely sure that multivitamins did not have such an effect. Could it be the collagen peptide from last time?

In that case, not only could it increase the elasticity of the skin, but it could also nourish blood and qi and increase one's stamina.

She had to admit that the effect was not bad.

She was gradually appreciating the small pharmacy.

After Su Xiaoxiao washed up, she went to the kitchen to eat some sweet potato pancakes. Ever since Little Wu took charge and managed the production department, Su Xiaoxiao felt much more relaxed.

She was feeling less and less pressured.

Little Wu's monthly allowance was one tael. She had worked for half a month in the first month. Logically speaking, she should have been given 500 copper coins, but she had a total of two taels.

Little Wu was dumbfounded.

In half a month… she had earned two taels… This, this was too…

Su Xiaoxiao didn't tell her that there was still a quarterly dividend at the end of March.

Liu Ping was also given two taels. Liu Ping had taken on all the logistics and purchases, in addition to the big and small carpentry work at home. It was truly a lot of work.

Su Xiaoxiao went to the backyard to get a basin of water and squatted on the ground to soak the jade.

Su Yuniang walked over with the baby who had just finished drinking milk and looked at Su Xiaoxiao strangely. “What are you doing?”

“Raising jade,” Su Xiaoxiao said.

Su Yuniang was very envious of people who could squat down flat on their feet. She could not squat unless she stood on her tiptoes, and her balance was not good.

She found a stool and sat down. She looked at the crystal clear jade pendant in the water. After Su Xiaoxiao wore and maintained it, the jade gradually returned to its original green and luster.

This was a top-grade jade.

“Where did you get it?” Su Yuniang asked.

Su Xiaoxiao raised her eyebrows. “Didn't I tell you? It's an heirloom.”

Su Yuniang expressed her doubts. “With this family heirloom, can you still be poor until now?”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “My father couldn't bear to sell it!”

Su Yuniang looked straight at the jade pendant and thought of something. She muttered, “My grandfather seems to recognize this jade pendant.”

“Huh?” Su Xiaoxiao turned to look at her.

Su Yuniang recalled, “The night I asked San Lang to send the jade pendant back to you, my grandfather saw the jade pendant. His expression was strange at that time.”

Su Xiaoxiao thought for a moment and said, “My father picked up this jade pendant when he was young. At that time, my father was still a cowherd in Willow Village. He shouldn't have seen your grandfather, right? How did your grandfather know my father's jade pendant?”

Su Yuniang asked, “Where did your father get his jade pendant?”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “He doesn't remember either. He's been wearing it since he can remember. He suspects that he picked it up on the way while escaping.”

In the afternoon, Manager Sun came.

He had brought a business.

“It's from the prefecture city!”

He beamed.

Su Xiaoxiao handed him a cup of brewed tea. He brought it over and took a sip, and almost vomited!

Manager Sun's expression was indescribable. “Boss, what tea is this?”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Oh, Chameleon Grass.”

Manager Sun trembled. What grass? You're giving me grass to drink?

Su Xiaoxiao asked, ” Is there actually someone in the city who dares to invite me to do business?”

She had offended the prefecture lord. Who was so bold?

Manager Sun dusted his wide sleeves and said, “Don't you know who ran the business? Am I, Sun Quan, such an incompetent person?”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Speak human language.”

Manager Sun coughed lightly and said, “It's for a funeral. No, no, it can't be called a funeral. Worshipping the ancestors, do you understand? They… are returning to their hometown to worship their ancestors.”

Chapter 172

Hearing this, Su Xiaoxiao understood.

The client was not from the prefecture capital's circle. He did not know that she had offended the prefecture lord, so he had the guts to invite her.

“When are we leaving?” Su Xiaoxiao asked.

Manager Sun said, “Tomorrow morning, the day after tomorrow at the latest.”

Su Xiaoxiao nodded. “Alright, I'll go to town.”

Manager Sun said awkwardly, “You… are really not hesitant? That's the prefecture city. What if you meet the prefecture lord again…”

Su Xiaoxiao said calmly, “If they dare to invite me, I dare to go.”

Su Xiaoxiao went to town mainly to see Dean Shen and Aunt Fu and ask if they had anything to bring to Shen Chuan and Grandmaster Hui Jue.

Ever since she saw Shen Chuan's condition in the prefecture capital last time, Su Xiaoxiao vaguely wondered if sending Shen Chuan to the prefecture capital's academy was the right decision.

As usual, she took the back door. Then, as expected, she was robbed of five pancakes by the old man guarding the door.

She entered the academy with a dark expression.

Coincidentally, Dean Shen had gone out with Young Master Xiang. The servant said that he would only return three days later.

“Looks like we can only do it next time.” Su Xiaoxiao asked Zhou Xing, “Is Jing Yi around?”

Zhou Xing said, “Young Master Jing isn't here either.”

Su Xiaoxiao sighed. “Alright, I'll come again next time.”

Just as she left, two men walked out from behind the screen.

It was Wu Mu and Qing Xuan.

Bai Ze and Hong Luan, one in the light and the other in the dark, had followed Jing Yi out.

The two of them stayed.

“What are you doing?” Qing Xuan asked.

Wu Mu touched his square face. “Don't you think there's something wrong with that girl?”

Qing Xuan said, “What's the problem?”

Wu Mu said thoughtfully, “Yuchi Xiu has appeared. Do you think his master won't be nearby? I suspect that I wasn't seeing things that day. The person with her was the youngest son of the Wei family!”

Qing Xuan said, “Didn't Young Marquis ask us not to interfere in this matter? He hid it from Young Master.”

Wu Mu said seriously, “This is the most terrifying thing! The Young Marquis has only known this girl for a short time, but he actually didn't confess any suspicious signs to Young Master for the sake of this girl! The Young Marquis must have guessed something and didn't want Young Master to hurt her, so he deliberately didn't say it to Young Master.”

Qing Xuan was silent.

He had to admit that Wu Mu's guess made sense.

Wu Mu made up his mind. “I'll follow her! Let's see if the youngest son of the Wei family is at her house!”

“Hey! Come back! You…” Qing Xuan did not manage to stop him.

Wu Mu used his top-notch qinggong, flew over the eaves, and left the academy like a ghost.

He was about to catch up.

Suddenly, he felt a pain in his waist!

“Aiya, what the…”

Who the hell was playing with a slingshot?

Wu Mu was hit.

The small stone hit his vital point.

His entire body stiffened, and all his strength suddenly dissipated. He fell down and fell facedown!

Crack!

His leg was broken.

F*ck…

He would have to recuperate for a long time…

Outside the backyard door, a servant looked up at the white clouds in the sky. “Are you shooting blindly? You made me waste a stone. Where's the bird? It didn't hit anything! How can you be stronger than me? You only know how to brag!”

The old man threw the slingshot back into his arms and took a bite of the crispy pancake. “Delicious.”

“My leg is itchy. Hurry up and remove the splint!”

“I'll tear it down for you when I get back from the prefecture city.”

“A few more days?”

“That's right!”

Aunt Fu was speechless.

Aunt Fu still asked Su Xiaoxiao to bring a bottle of health pills for Grandmaster Hui Jue.

Grandmaster Hui Jue looked to be in a good state. Su Xiaoxiao didn't think it was a big deal whether she ate health pills or not. However, the quality of the Fu family's food had always been guaranteed. It was beneficial to the body.

As Su Xiaoxiao left with the health pills, Aunt Fu began to secretly remove the splint.

Su Xiaoxiao didn't turn around, as if she had eyes at the back of her head. “If you dare to remove it yourself, I'll put a cast on you!”

Aunt Fu was speechless.

At Little Su's house, the entire family learned that Su Xiaoxiao was going to the prefecture city.

Su Ergou was very excited. He could go to the prefecture city again. He was so happy!

Father Su was a little uneasy. “Daughter, we're not robbing the Prefecture Lord this time…”

“Okay, Dad!” Su Xiaoxiao agreed.

He only said that she would not rob the Prefecture Lord, but he did not say that she would not rob others, right?

Father Su muttered,” Why do I still feel strange…”

The family worked in the backyard.

Wei Ting returned to the room and took a sip of water.

Yuchi Xiu flashed in.

“Sir, do you need me to protect you in secret?”

“No need.”

“Why?”

“You like to cause trouble.”

“I don't!”

As soon as he finished speaking, there was a thunderous commotion in the backyard.

Boom!

It was Liu Ping's new donkey shed that had collapsed.

Whoosh!

It was the woodpile that Su Ergou had just piled up that had scattered.

Pfft!

It was the stove in the kitchen that suddenly burned.

Su Yuniang was trying to make noodles when the basin suddenly exploded, and white flour splashed all over her face!

Su Yuniang let out an angry lion roar. “Who did it?!!”

Yuchi Xiu was speechless.

According to Manager Sun's instructions, he had accepted a big order. It was a total of three days. One day for worshipping the ancestors, one day for inviting guests, and one day for family banquets.

Indeed, what followed was a very generous reward of 100 taels a day.

“It's just that our reputation isn't established yet. Otherwise, not to mention a hundred taels, I could even negotiate a thousand taels.”

These were Manager Sun's exact words.

It was impossible to determine if it was true or not.

However, 300 taels were really tempting. It was undeniable that Manager Sun's ability to accept orders was indeed nothing to complain about.

At night, Su Xiaoxiao packed her things in the east room.

Su Yuniang came to look for her. “I'm going out for a few days.”

Su Xiaoxiao asked, “Where are you going?”

Su Yuniang said, “I have something to do. Before that, I want to go back to the Su family and get my things back.”

Su Xiaoxiao crossed her arms. “You mean your private savings? Aiya, I'm going to the prefecture city. I have to pack. I'm so busy.”

Su Yuniang said, “Ten taels!”

Su Xiaoxiao said angrily, “Who do you think I am?”

Su Yuniang said, “Gold.”

Su Xiaoxiao rubbed her chubby hands. “Sigh, it doesn't matter if it's gold or not. I just want to take a walk at your house.”

Su Xiaoxiao carried the butcher knife and returned to the Su family with Su Yuniang.

Now that the Su family saw Su Yuniang, it was as if they had seen a jinx, and there was a little fiend beside the jinx.

The Su family's eyelids twitched, but when they saw the butcher knife in Su Xiaoxiao's hand, they couldn't say a word.

The Su family did not know how much money Su Yuniang had. If they had known, they would not have used a hundred taels to frame Su Yuniang.

It could only be said that poverty limited their imagination.

When they saw Su Yuniang dig out a large box of gold from the crack in the wall, the Su family was dumbfounded.

They had always thought that Su Yuniang's money was given by the Zheng family. If she divorced the Zheng family, it meant that Su Yuniang had nothing.

If they had known that Su Yuniang was so rich, they would have worshiped her no matter what!

They really regretted it!

Chapter 173

Because of Su Dalang's stupidity, the Su family owed 500 taels of silver. The Su family did have some assets, but it was really difficult to take out so much money at once.

They looked at Su Yuniang's gold and could not help but have thoughts.

Su Can opened his mouth. “Yuniang, you…”

Su Yuniang said calmly, “You want to say that this gold is yours and you won't let me take it away?”

She coolly took out an account book!

“This clearly notes where my money came from, which bank I took it from, and where the official seal came from! There's no way you can take my money for yourself!”

If they fell out, there was no need to leave any leeway for the other party.

“Originally, you should have a share of this money. But you were the ones who pushed me out! Then I can only set up another household with my money!”

These words almost angered Su Can.

“Then, return the 100 taels!” Su Can said.

In order to frame the Su family, they had placed a hundred taels of silver in that bag.

Su Yuniang smiled. “Dad, have you forgotten that the bag is mine!”

Su Can choked. “Didn't you already… explain it clearly…”

Su Yuniang mocked, “So, did you let the Su family take the blame for nothing? Don't you have to compensate others for some losses? You don't have money, but your life…”

“Which one do you want dead?” Su Xiaoxiao walked in with a butcher knife.

In the end, the Su family was in the wrong. Even if Su Xiaoxiao's family forcefully kept the money, there was no way to reason.

This was what it meant to suffer a double loss.

Su Yuniang said coldly, “I'm leaving! I'll never come to this house again!”

The Su family watched her leave the house without looking back with Fatty Su, who was holding a butcher knife. Their faces were as dark as the bottom of a pot.

“Did you vent your anger?” Su Xiaoxiao asked.

Su Yuniang let out a long sigh. “I did!”

Under the moonlight, the two of them looked at each other and smiled.

Indeed, it was so damn satisfying!

Su Yuniang had to leave to do something, so it was not convenient for her to bring the child along. She could only entrust her daughter to Madam Zhao.

This time, she personally came to apologize and thank Madam Zhao.

It was her fault for intercepting her midwife back then. She was very selfish in the moment of life and death.

Madam Zhao said in a low voice, “No, I actually have to be grateful to you. If you hadn't snatched that midwife away, I would have been the unlucky one.”

Su Yuniang was speechless.

Madam Qian did not intend to cut Su Yuniang any slack. Where was she back then when she should apologize? Did she think that she could bribe them with a basket of snacks and meat?

Were they so spineless?!

Her daughter-in-law must not forgive her!

Su Yuniang handed over two gold ingots. “I'll leave my girl to you for the next few days.”

Madam Qian said, “Sigh, back then, it was only because the midwife wanted to curry favor with you and said that my daughter-in-law wasn't in labor that you felt at ease keeping the midwife. Otherwise, with your personality, you definitely wouldn't have monopolized her.”

Madam Zhao was speechless.

At Little Su's house, Su Xiaoxiao continued to pack her things for the prefecture capital. She would be gone for a longer time this time, so she had to bring a few more clothes.

In addition, there were ingredients.

There were too many things to prepare for the three days of banquet.

Liu Ping was called over. Su Xiaoxiao made a list and asked him to buy them early the next morning. After buying the items, he could just haul them to Manager Sun's residence.

“Okay.” Liu Ping accepted the list.

In order to increase Liu Ping's efficiency and accuracy, Su Xiaoxiao also asked him to learn some words from Wei Ting.

He learned it and taught it to Little Wu when he returned. Little Wu learned faster than Liu Ping.

It was just that it had been so long. Little Wu and Liu Ping had worked too hard. It was time to find a few people to share the burden with them.

Just as she was thinking, Li Xiaoyong came over.

Su Xiaoxiao went to the central room. “Brother Xiaoyong, what's the matter so late?”

Li Xiaoyong scratched his head in embarrassment. “Well, I saw that you're quite busy here, so I wanted to ask you… do you need manpower?”

Of course, she needed manpower!

However, she did not want everyone. She would rather have none than use someone she couldn't trust.

If it was Li Xiaoyong, there was naturally no problem.

The Li family was down-to-earth and capable. From Old Li to Auntie Qian to Li Xiaoyong, they were all good at work.

This was like a pillow being handed to her when she was sleepy.

Li Xiaoyong said, “Your Sister Zhao and the child are already out of confinement. If you don't mind, we can both come.”

Su Xiaoxiao smiled and said, “Why would I mind? I can't ask for more. However, my work here is different from the work in the village. Brother Xiaoyong, you and Sister Zhao will follow Sister Xiao Wu and Brother Liu for a few days to see if you're used to it.”

After sending Li Xiaoyong off, Su Xiaoxiao asked Su Ergou to call Liu Ping over and told him that Li Xiaoyong and Madam Zhao had come to help. She also carefully divided their work.

Liu Ping remembered and would tell his wife when he returned.

Su Xiaoxiao continued to return to the house to pack. Halfway through, Wei Ting came over after washing up.

He glanced at the bags of various sizes on the bed. One of the bags actually had a pink undergarment jutting out of it.

It was indecent!

He turned his face away coldly.

“Wei Ting.” Su Xiaoxiao was busy arranging her clothes and didn't notice a certain someone's cold expression. “Can you do me a favor?”

“To do what?”

A certain someone had a cold expression and answered the question quickly.

Su Xiaoxiao smiled. “Don't you have a powerful subordinate? Yuniang is leaving to do something. I'm worried that the Su family will cause trouble while I'm not around. Can you ask your subordinate to protect Yuniang?”

Wei Ting refused to admit it. “I already said that I don't have subordinates.”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “I'll take it that you agree. Thank you!”

Wei Ting was speechless.

Wei Ting looked at her bags on the left and right and frowned. “You're packing so many clothes?”

The last time, there was only a bag. This time, it was as if she was not coming back.

Su Xiaoxiao nodded and said, “Half of them are Ergou's. Coupled with the fact that we're leaving for a longer time this time, it will take at least five days to seven days.”

Wei Ting fell silent.

Su Xiaoxiao's eyes darted around. “Wei Ting, don't tell me you can't bear to part with me? Do you want to go with me?”

Wei Ting took a sip of tea. “Heh, dream on.”

Father Su walked over. “Daughter, the flour is packed! How's your packing?”

“It's about time, Dad.” Su Xiaoxiao looked at Su Cheng and said, “I'll leave the family to you.”

Father Su patted his chest. “Don't worry, don't worry. I'll take good care of the family and raise my son-in-law, Dahu, and the others until they're fair and fat! Coincidentally, I've learned a few new dishes recently…”

Wei Ting's hand trembled…

The next day, Manager Sun came to the village to pick up Su Xiaoxiao and Su Ergou. Xiaowu was still driving the cart.

When Su Xiaoxiao heard the sound of hooves, she put down her work and bade farewell to Little Wu and the others. She went to the central room to carry her bags out.

Manager Sun got out of the carriage and said with a smile, “Boss, you're done packing. Xiaowu, quickly enter the house and move the things. We're preparing to leave…”

Before he could finish, he was shocked!

“What's wrong?” Su Xiaoxiao looked at him strangely and followed his gaze. Then, her eyebrows twitched!

Behind him, other than the sleepy Su Ergou, there were also Wei Ting and three little radishes.

The three little ones each carried a small bag and looked at her with big eyes!

Wei Ting did not carry a bag… He shamelessly hung his bag on Su Ergou's shoulder.

Su Xiaoxiao was stunned. “What's going on?”

Wei Ting carried the three brats to the door and said without changing his expression, “Dahu, Erhu, and Xiaohu can't bear to part with you and want to go with you.”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “I'm going to do business. I might not have time to accompany the children.”

Wei Ting sighed. “Then I can only reluctantly come along to take care of them.”

Hey, they were his sons, to begin with, okay? What did he mean by reluctantly taking care of them?

Su Xiaoxiao continued, “But what will happen to the family's business if you leave? If father sells pancakes alone… He won't be able to handle it.”

The business was too popular now. The pastries were almost snatched up as soon as the stall was set up. At least two people were needed.

“Xiaoyong.” Wei Ting called Li Xiaoyong, who was washing salted duck eggs in the backyard.

“What's the matter, Big Brother Wei?” Li Xiaoyong asked.

Su Xiaoxiao muttered, “Do you know how old he is? Why are you calling him Big Brother Wei? Why do I feel that he's actually younger than you?”

Wei Ting said, “Follow my father to the street to sell pancakes later.”

Li Xiaoyong's eyes lit up. “Sure!”

Wei Ting added, “Xiaoyong is not bad-looking.”

The three little ones used their cuteness and blinked at Su Xiaoxiao. They didn't say anything and just stared deeply.

It was as if as long as Su Xiaoxiao said no, their young hearts would be greatly hurt. They were going to become three pitiful worms without a mother.

Xiaohu hugged the bag and raised his hand, singing sadly.

“Little cabbage ~ The land is yellow ~ Two to three years old ~ Without a mother ~”

Su Xiaoxiao was speechless.

Chapter 174

Fifteen minutes later, the group embarked on the journey to the prefecture capital.

With the addition of one big and three small ones, a carriage clearly could not accommodate them.

Liu Ping drove the donkey cart to town.

The three little ones liked to take the donkey cart. After all, it was their own donkey and the feeling of attachment was different. Moreover, the donkey cart was open. It was cool to sit in it!

They wanted to sit with their mother! As a result, Su Xiaoxiao was pulled onto the donkey cart.

The family of five was neat. On the other hand, Liu Ping was squeezed out and sat in the carriage.

The donkey kicked off and left!

Manager Sun looked at the donkey running away and suspected that he was seeing things. “Did you actually buy a donkey?”

Why was it faster than his horse?

After going to town, Su Xiaoxiao found the dealership and hired another carriage.

Seeing that there was only the carriage and no coachman, Wei Ting asked, “Where's the coachman?”

“He's far away but right in front of you.” With that, Su Xiaoxiao handed Wei Ting a horsewhip.

Lord Wei was speechless.

Su Xiaoxiao spread her hands. “Hiring a coachman costs money. It's not cheap. It's 80 copper coins a day and there's food and accommodation. Let's save as much as we can! Right, Dahu, Erhu, Xiaohu?”

The three little ones nodded.

Xiaohu clenched his fists and said, “We have to save money!”

Su Xiaoxiao raised her eyebrows and glanced at someone. “I think you know a lot about horses. You should… know how to drive a carriage, right?”

Look, she even used provocation.

What could Wei Ting say?

If he had known, he would have sold pancakes on the streets.

Wei Ting drove the carriage through the city with a handsome face.

This was much more exposed than selling pancakes.

Hence, after the pastry man, Xi Shi, there was another carriage man, Zhao Jun, in Apricot Flower Town.

The carriages left Apricot Flower Town and drove onto the official road to the prefecture city. On both sides of the road were endless rice fields.

There was still half a month before the planting of the early rice. The rice field was bare and barren like a desert.

Su Xiaoxiao felt that there was nothing to see, but the three little ones squeezed their heads out of the carriage window one by one.

“Mother, what is that?”

“Weed.”

“That!”

“Birch tree.”

“Birch tree.”

“The one beside is not a white birch tree. It's a camphor tree.”

Xiaohu was the most talkative and asked all the way.

Occasionally, Dahu and Erhu would ask a few questions. Su Xiaoxiao was very patient.

Wei Ting snorted and continued to be the coachman for Su Xiaoxiao and the three children.

When the little fellows went out in the morning, they seemed to be on steroids. They could not take it anymore in the afternoon. They were listless and yawned one after another.

“Are you sleepy?” Su Xiaoxiao asked.

The three of them shook their heads. “I'm not sleepy.”

In the next second, they fell asleep.

After a day of long journey, they arrived at the prefecture city at sunset.

This time, they were not staying at Yuelai Inn.

Manager Sun opened the curtain of the carriage and said to Su Xiaoxiao, “The place where they were going to worship the ancestors is on Half Moon Mountain. Let's head seven to eight miles east. There's an inn there, near Half Moon Mountain.”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “That place doesn't seem to be far from Grandmaster Hui Jue's nunnery?”

Manager Sun said, “Yes, it's much closer than going to the nunnery from Yue Lai Inn. Are you going to visit Grandmaster Hui Jue this time?”

“Yes.” Su Xiaoxiao nodded. Not to mention that Aunt Fu had asked her to bring something, she had also promised Grandmaster Hui Jue that if she came to the prefecture city again, she would go to the nunnery to see her.

“Are you going tonight?” Manager Sun asked.

Su Xiaoxiao looked at the dark sky. “No, it's too late today. Let's do it another day after we finish our business.”

Manager Sun said, “Alright.”

She would focus on doing business first and visit after she was done.

Since she had brought the three little fellows out, she had to stroll around the prefecture city.

It was not easy for children to come out and explore.

The inn they checked into was called the Half Moon Mountain Inn. Compared to the Yuelai Inn, the conditions were a little worse. This time, it was not that Manager Sun wanted to save money, but that there was only one inn nearby.

Moreover, because a large family was going to worship their ancestors, the rooms were already full.

“Is… is there not a single room left?” Manager Sun asked.

The innkeeper looked up at him and then at Su Xiaoxiao. He sized her up and asked, “Are you Miss Su?”

“I am,” Su Xiaoxiao said. “Do you know me?”

The innkeeper revealed a polite smile. “Grandmaster Hui Jue mentioned you to me. You're… quite easy to recognize.”

“Just say that I'm fat!”

The innkeeper said amiably, “Grandmaster asked me to reserve four rooms for you. Do you think it's enough?”

Chapter 175

Su Xiaoxiao exclaimed, “Does Grandmaster Hui Jue know that I'm coming over?”

She had yet to visit her!

Thinking of something, Su Xiaoxiao turned to look at Manager Sun. “Where did you discuss your business?”

Manager Sun said, “Someone came looking for me. At the Wang family's banquet… I told those guests where I lived and left a business card.”

Su Xiaoxiao finally understood. Manager Sun said he had brokered it himself but the business was most likely introduced by Grandmaster Hui Jue.

She knew it. She had already offended the Li family. Why would anyone dare to support her?

She originally thought that the client was from elsewhere and did not know. Now that she thought about it, someone who could build a relationship with Grandmaster Hui Jue was not afraid of someone like Prefecture Lord Li at all.

She had to find an opportunity to thank Grandmaster Hui Jue later.

There were four rooms. Su Xiaoxiao and the three little ones had one, Wei Ting had one, Su Ergou and Little Wu had one, and Manager Sun had one.

Manager Sun was very surprised that the two of them did not live in the same room.

However, on second thought, the beds in the inn were not big. There were three children in the middle, so it was indeed a little difficult to squeeze into the same bed.

Su Xiaoxiao had always been extremely serious about her work. Whether it was a big client or not, she would do her best to deal with it.

“Manager Sun, it's me.”

She knocked on Manager Sun's door.

“Boss, what's wrong?” Manager Sun opened the door for her.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “I have a question for you. Did that family say what taboos or restrictions we have to take note of for the offerings? For example, meat, lard, and so on?”

Manager Sun said, “I've asked. They said there aren't any. Just do what you're good at.”

The offerings were for the ancestors, but after the sacrifice, the offerings would be distributed. These offerings were usually thought to be stained with the blessings of the ancestors. After eating them, they could be protected by their ancestors.

Su Xiaoxiao roughly knew what to do.

Manager Sun suddenly said, “What a coincidence. The family who invited us to make snacks also has the surname Su.”

Su Xiaoxiao returned to her room.

The three little ones widened their eyes and sat on the bed in high spirits.

Su Xiaoxiao's eyebrows twitched.

After sleeping all afternoon… Were they… well-rested from the long nap?

Dahu said, “Mother, I'm hungry.”

Erhu said, “Eat chicken drumsticks.”

Xiaohu said, “Eat pancakes!”

Su Xiaoxiao rejected mercilessly. “You can't eat pancakes.”

Xiaohu felt wronged and refused to say anything.

The three of them slept all the way during the day. When they woke up at this hour, they would not sleep again until the latter half of the night.

There was a small market a mile away. When they passed by just now, it was very lively.

Su Xiaoxiao thought for a moment and went next door to get Su Ergou and Xiaowu, as well as Wei Ting, to walk around the market.

Manager Sun did not go. His old bones could not keep up with the stamina of young people.

Xiaowu drove the carriage.

The three little ones did not want to take the carriage. They wanted to walk!

Dahu and Erhu quickly occupied Su Xiaoxiao's left and right hands. Xiaohu was so angry that he stomped his feet!

“I don't want to walk,” Xiaohu said to Wei Ting.

Wei Ting decisively picked Xiao Hu up and threw him to Su Ergou.

The market here could not compare to the one in the prefecture city, but there were also many stalls.

The three little ones drooled at the stall selling fried chives dumplings.

Su Xiaoxiao asked for six chives dumplings and asked Su Ergou to buy eggnog glutinous rice balls from the stall next door.

She was on a diet so she wouldn't eat this sugar-oil mixture.

When he sat down, Xiaohu successfully snatched the seat beside his mother and shook his head happily!

Wei Ting suddenly stood up and left silently.

Su Xiaoxiao thought that he had gone to the toilet, but when he returned, he had a roasted sweet potato in his hand.

“I bought it in passing,” he said calmly.

Su Xiaoxiao raised her eyebrows. “Then why are you giving it to me?”

Wei Ting brought the sweet potato back. “Forget it if you don't want to eat it.”

“I'll eat it!” Su Xiaoxiao snatched the sweet potato over and broke open the crispy outer skin. The outer skin was a little burnt, and there was a faint sweet and sour taste.

Compared to the pure sweet part in the middle, Su Xiaoxiao actually liked to eat this part more.

Her round face was chubby. When she took a bite, her cheeks were puffed up like a fat squirrel foraging.

“Brother-in-law, why aren't you eating? Are you not hungry?” Su Ergou asked.

Wei Ting moved his gaze away from Su Xiaoxiao's face and grabbed the chives dumpling on the plate. “I'm eating.”

Su Ergou smacked his lips. He thought that if Wei Ting didn't eat it, he would eat it for him!

After they had eaten 70% of the chives dumplings and rice balls, Su Xiaoxiao didn't allow them to eat anymore. “It's too late. It's difficult to digest if you eat too much. We'll come back tomorrow.”

Chapter 176

Hearing that he could still come tomorrow, Su Ergou happily accepted it.

The group returned to the inn.

The three little ones were so excited that they did not want to sleep. They rolled around on the bed.

Wei Ting said, “I'll watch them. You sleep first.”

Su Xiaoxiao had to wake up early tomorrow, so she didn't stand on ceremony with Wei Ting. She rolled up the blanket and fell asleep.

When she woke up, Wei Ting was no longer in the room. The three little ones were sprawled out and sleeping soundly. There was one at the head of the bed, one at the foot of the bed, and one at the side.

Su Xiaoxiao arranged the little fellows and covered them with the blanket. Then, she began to dress and wash up.

Manager Sun slept early and woke up early. He woke Xiaowu up first and went to the horse shed to feed the horses. Then, he instructed the kitchen to prepare breakfast.

When Su Xiaoxiao arrived at the lobby, the steamed dumplings were already out of the oven.

“Boss, did you sleep well last night?” Manager Sun asked.

“Not bad.” Su Xiaoxiao sat down beside him.

Manager Sun said, “Xiaowu went to wake Ergou. He'll be down soon. This basket of dumplings is for you. There're fresh ones in the kitchen.”

Su Xiaoxiao tasted the soup dumplings. “They taste good.”

The ingredients were very fresh. They used pepper and ginger to remove the fishy smell of the meat. After taking a bite, the juice exploded slightly. It was the taste of soup dumplings.

“You eat too,” Su Xiaoxiao said to him.

Manager Sun smiled. “Eat first. I'll wait for Ergou.”

Su Xiaoxiao did not have any concept of seniority, but Manager Sun would not forget his status because of this. The boss was magnanimous, so he could not take advantage of her.

He had to know his limits.

Su Xiaoxiao didn't say anything else and ate two more.

Manager Sun said, “Boss, I went to ask around again this morning.”

“What did you ask about?” Su Xiaoxiao asked.

Manager Sun whispered, “That's right. It's the family who invited us to make snacks. I originally thought that it was a business deal I discussed, so I didn't think too much about it. However, after thinking about it at night, I realized that this business was most likely arranged by Grandmaster Hui Jue. That's definitely not an ordinary family, so I asked around.”

“You didn't just ask around, did you? You dug around and got to the bottom of it, right?”

Guests came down from the lobby one after another.

Manager Sun lowered his voice and said, “That family with the surname Su is from the capital. It's said that they're a high-ranking official in the capital! No wonder they're not afraid of us offending the Li Residence!”

“Oh.” Su Xiaoxiao continued to eat the soup dumplings.

“No, why are you so calm?”

“We've received the business of a noble in the capital! What a gimmick! If word gets out in the future, Jin Ji won't even be worthy of carrying our shoes!”

In any case, Manager Sun had been excited for a long time. He had even planned a hundred ways to brag, build momentum, and kill off Jin Ji.

Manager Sun continued, “Their ancestral home is in Ping Cheng, Qingzhou. They will return to their hometown to pay respects to their ancestors every few years. However, I heard that they haven't come back much these past few years. Do you know why?”

Su Xiaoxiao said honestly, “I don't know.”

Manager Sun muttered, “You're really a very bad supporting character!”

Manager Sun had spent money to fish out the gossip and couldn't help but spit it out. “It's said that many years ago, the Su family returned to their hometown to pay respects to their ancestors and encountered robbers. A madam of the Su family and her child were cruelly killed by robbers! Ever since then, fewer members of the Su family have returned! This time, it's said that they're moving the grave!”

“Sister!”

Su Ergou went downstairs. “It smells so good!”

Manager Sun said to Xiaowu, “Go to the kitchen and ask them to bring out the remaining three baskets of dumplings.”

Xiaowu agreed. “Okay.”

Su Ergou was about to eat when Su Xiaoxiao said, “Send a basket up for your brother-in-law.”

“Brother-in-law isn't awake yet,” Su Ergou said. “I didn't even hear any movement in his room.”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Just go.”

“Oh.” Su Ergou obediently picked up a basket of buns and knocked on his brother-in-law's door.

Chapter 177

Wei Ting quickly opened the door for him.

Su Ergou scratched his head. “Brother-in-law, you're really up?”

Wei Ting asked, “I just woke up. What's wrong?”

Su Ergou handed the steamer to him. “Oh, Sister asked me to send you a basket of buns. Do you want to go down and eat with us?”

Wei Ting said, “No, I'll eat in the room.”

Su Xiaoxiao and the others had to do business and ate quickly. If he sat with them, he would be alone not long after. In addition, he had to look after the three little fellows next door.

Wei Ting said, “Put it in your sister's room.”

Su Ergou agreed. “Aye, alright!”

Su Xiaoxiao was almost done eating in the lobby. She had a choice of place to sit. She happened to be able to see her and Wei Ting's two rooms. The other two rooms were around a corner, which was her blind spot.

She glanced at Wei Ting on the walkway.

Wei Ting entered her room with the three little ones' room with a calm expression.

The three of them only fell asleep in the middle of the night. They would probably wake up late today.

She did not believe that Wei Ting had followed her to the prefecture city for the three little fellows. Wei Ting was too shrewd. He must have his own motives.

Su Ergou was also full.

The group set off for Half Moon Mountain.

The tomb of the rich family was located on a piece of treasured land. The two sides of the top were tall, and the middle part was sunken inward in the layout of the Incense Burner Mountain.

It was already good enough for ordinary families to have a grave, but this family had an entire cemetery.

Not only that, but they also built a separate family temple.

On the way here, Su Xiaoxiao asked Wei Ting many questions about the sacrifice.

The ancestral hall of the Great Zhou was also called a family temple. Commoners were not qualified to build a family temple.

There were seven temples for the emperor, five temples for the vassals, three temples for the physician, and one temple for scholars.

In short, to build a family temple, one had to at least be an official.

She had only learned from the innkeeper this morning that the big family that had hired them to make snacks had built five temples.

In other words, the head was a duke.

The vassals from the capital had too big a background.

What was Prefecture Lord Li in front of them? What? He was not even worthy of carrying shoes?

No, this sentence was already a scam.

Moreover, the gossip Manager Sun had heard yesterday was also inaccurate. The family was not here to move the grave. They were here to worship their ancestors and perform a crown ceremony for a direct descendant.

In the Great Zhou, men were considered adults when they were 20 years old. If they were married early, they would perform the crown ceremony on the day before the wedding.

The location was all at the family temple.

It was already difficult for country bumpkins to fill their stomachs, so they were naturally not so particular. They probably could not even afford a hair crown, even if they were adults.

Only these vassals and physicians could afford to talk about such red tape.

Su Xiaoxiao felt that she had to buy a hair crown for Father Su when she returned this time. She didn't want to buy fake jade. She wanted real jade.

Father Su wandered to Willow Village during the year of the disaster. He had been a cowherd for ten years and grew up eating all kinds of food. He had no elders, so he naturally did not have a crown ceremony before he became a husband and a father.

“The red-tiled hut at the foot of the mountain… That's right, it's here!” Manager Sun lifted the curtain. “Xiaowu, stop the carriage.”

Manager Sun pointed at the towering buildings in front of him and said, “Do you see that? That's the Su family's temple. It's a true energy sect! Unfortunately, we can't enter. In a while, we'll make snacks in the kitchen here. Someone will come and get them.”

“Yeah.”

Su Xiaoxiao calmly got out of the carriage.

Su Ergou had taken a nap in the carriage and was in good spirits.

The person who came to contact them was a steward with the surname Yu.

Probably knowing that they were introduced by Grandmaster Hui Jue, Steward Yu's attitude was very polite. After bringing her to the kitchen, he asked if there was anything else she needed.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “We brought the ingredients ourselves. May I ask where the water is?”

Steward Yu smiled and said, “There's a clean well in the backyard. If you don't want to use the well water, there's a natural mountain spring half a mile east. It tastes sweeter than the well water.”

Su Xiaoxiao decided to try the spring water.

Su Ergou picked up two buckets with a shoulder pole and followed.

They soon arrived half a mile away. Su Xiaoxiao watched as the winding spring water flowed down from a naturally formed stone cave. She stretched out her chubby hand and took a sip.

How sweet!

“Sister, does it taste good?” Su Ergou asked.

Su Xiaoxiao nodded without hesitation. “It's delicious. It's sweeter than the water on our mountain.”

“I'll do it too!” Su Ergou put down the shoulder pole and bucket. He did not hold it with his hand. Instead, he tilted his head and took it with his mouth.

“It's so cold!”

His collar was wet.

However, he could also taste that the spring water here was indeed sweet.

“Sister, can we bring two buckets for Dad when we go back?”

“Eh? Sister, what's wrong? Why aren't you saying anything?”

“Sister!”

Su Xiaoxiao said softly, “I heard it. Ask Steward Yu later how much the spring water is. Buy some and bring them back.”

Between the siblings, one really went all out to take care of his loved ones and the other went all out to spoil them.

Su Xiaoxiao frowned slightly.

She… seemed to have seen Jing Yi just now.

Surrounded by a group of luxuriously dressed people, he entered the temple of the rich family.

It was too far away and she could not see it clearly. Perhaps she had seen wrongly.

But in the next second, she didn't think so.

Because Changping had come over.

Changping was also here to get spring water. The difference was that he was holding two small bamboo tubes.

“Su Su Su… Miss Su?”

Changping looked at the siblings in disbelief. “Why are you here?”

To meet them wherever he went, he felt they must really be haunting him!

Changping was Young Master Xiang's personal follower. If he was here, it meant that Young Master Xiang was also here. Jing Yi was most likely here.

No wonder neither of them was there when she went to the academy to look for them. It turned out that they had gone to the prefecture city.

Jing Yi and the others arrived at the entrance of the family temple.

A middle-aged man in his forties had long been waiting here with his family. He first cupped his hands at Jing Yi. “Young Marquis Jing, long time no see. How have you been?”

Jing Yi nodded slightly and moved aside.

The man took a look and his expression changed drastically. He bent his knees and knelt down. “Greetings to the Third…”

Young Master Xiang reached out and stopped him from bowing. “When you're outside, just call me Young Master Xiang.”

The man understood. “Yes! Young Master Xiang, please come in!”

Young Master Xiang and Jing Yi followed the man into a courtyard beside the family temple. This place was mainly used to guard the family temple.

After they sat down, the servants served tea.

Young Master Xiang asked, “It's been half a year since we last met in the capital. I wonder how your health is?”

The man sighed. “It's a little better. It's almost Aunt's death anniversary, and Father can't sleep at night.”

Young Master Xiang also sighed and said, “Has the Marquis not let go?”

The man shook his head helplessly. “Father has always been brooding over what happened back then and feels guilty for not protecting Aunt well. Father often said that if only he hadn't brought Aunt back to the village to pay respects to her ancestors. That way, he wouldn't have caused Aunt to die tragically and her flesh and blood to wander among the commoners for many years.”

Chapter 178

The siblings went to make snacks after getting water.

There was actually a requirement for offerings. Take fruits and snacks for example. Peaches and pomegranates were Yang fruits. They could be used to ward off evil and exorcize ghosts, so they were not suitable to be used as sacrifices.

Although there were not many taboos regarding the types of snacks, the number was usually singular.

Among the five elements, singular was Yang, and even was Yin. The tomb was already Yin. The offering had to be Yang, and Yin and Yang had to be harmonized to protect the peace of the aristocratic family.

Su Xiaoxiao made sweet barley, radish cake, and date cake. Su Ergou helped her. The siblings cooperated well. When Steward Yu came over to ask how long it would take to cook, Su Xiaoxiao was already loading the plate.

A refreshing fragrance filled the entire room.

Steward Yu swallowed.

Who would make offerings so fragrant?

Ordinary people thought that the offering was not for people to eat. It meant that it was fine as long as there was food. In terms of taste, it would be much worse than the snacks sold on the market.

Steward Yu drooled. He thought to himself that this was making even ghosts cry…

He touched the corner of his mouth and confirmed that there was no residual saliva. Then, he composed himself and said to Su Xiaoxiao and Su Ergou, “You've worked hard. I'll arrange for someone to get it now.”

“Steward Yu,” Su Ergou called out to him.

Steward Yu asked warmly, “Little Brother Su, what's the matter?”

Su Ergou felt that this big family was quite easy to get along with. The people he interacted with were all very polite, unlike the Qi family and the Wang family in the past.

Su Ergou said, “Are you selling your spring water? Can I buy two buckets back?”

Steward Yu was amused by this child's serious expression. “No.”

“Ah…” Su Ergou was disappointed.

“However.” Steward Yu held back his laughter and said to Su Ergou, “We can give the mountain spring water to people fated to get acquainted with the family. Brother Su, you can bring as much back as you want.”

Su Ergou scratched his head. “How embarrassing…”

After thinking for a moment, he took out an oil paper bag and handed it to Steward Yu. “Ergou Pancake, for you.”

Today was dedicated to sacrifice. It could be done in one go. There was no need to eat at noon and at night like a banquet.

“Sister, are we done?” Su Ergou asked.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “The sacrifice is done. The snacks at the banquet in the next two days have to be made for them to taste and choose.”

“Oh.”

“Are you sleepy? Do you want to go to the chair to catch up on your sleep? I don't need your help here.”

It was just a sample. The amount was not big. She could do it herself.

“I'm not sleepy.” Su Ergou shook his head and walked to the stool to lie down for two hours.

The ancestral worship had already ended.

When he woke up, Su Ergou rubbed his eyes. “Sister, why are you still making snacks?”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “There's still some fermented dough left. It's a waste not to make it. Are you hungry?”

“I'm not very hungry.” Su Ergou sat up. “I'll get some mountain spring water!”

Su Xiaoxiao looked around and didn't see Manager Sun. There was no need to guess. He must be looking for an opportunity to get business.

Su Ergou picked up the shoulder pole, hung up two empty buckets, and rushed towards the mountain spring!

He came to the spring and drank to his heart's content before taking out a bucket to scoop up the water.

The mountain spring water flowed slowly. A bucket would take half a day.

As he waited, he squatted on the ground and drew circles.

“Hey, who's that! Come here for a moment!”

Not far away, a man spoke.

“I'm talking about you!”

Su Ergou looked up at him in a daze.

“Yes, it's you! Come here!” The man waved at Su Ergou.

The man was only in his early twenties. From his clothes, he looked like a servant from a rich family.

Su Ergou glanced at the less than half-filled bucket and stood up to walk over. “What?”

The servant put down the cart in his hand and wiped the sweat off his forehead. “The cart seems to be broken. I can't push it anymore. Give me a hand.”

“Is it broken? Make way.” Su Ergou came to the cart and grabbed it with both hands. He gently raised it and passed it to the servant. “Isn't this good?”

The servant was stunned.

However, when it was the servant's turn to push, the servant couldn't do it again. He either couldn't push it or overturned the cart. Fortunately, the box above was tied with rope. Otherwise, it would have been scattered on the ground.

“Y-You push it!” the servant said angrily.

“Then wait.” Su Ergou ran to the spring and removed the filled bucket. He placed an empty bucket and continued to receive it.

Seeing that he was fetching spring water, the servant thought that he was a servant guarding the Su family's ancestral shrine. When Su Ergou pushed the cart into the back door of the courtyard, the servant ordered him to help unload the goods.

Su Ergou did not say anything and helped him remove it.

Su Ergou had just turned 14, but he was much stronger than the servant. He carried down a few big and heavy boxes and they landed lightly.

“Kid, not bad.” The servant patted his shoulder in admiration. “What's your name?”

“Su Ergou.”

“A family child?” the servant asked.

“What?” Su Ergou didn't understand.

Many servants would be given their master's surname. Such servants had a higher status than those bought outside.

The servant could not order him around casually and was about to let him leave.

Suddenly, an imposing young man walked over with his head held high.

He looked about the same age as Su Ergou. He was dressed luxuriously and had the arrogance of a young master of an aristocratic family.

The servant hurriedly bowed. “Little High Duke!”

Seeing that Su Ergou did not move, he quietly tugged at him.

Su Ergou asked, “What?”

The servant secretly took a deep breath, wondering why this silly kid didn't bow in the presence of the little prince.

The young man ignored the two servants and turned around to instruct the guard behind him, “Bring my horse over. I want to go into the mountains to hunt!”

The guard looked troubled. “Young High Duke, this… isn't good, right? The mountains are very dangerous.”

The young man snorted coldly. “If you're afraid of danger, stay here! I'll find someone else!”

The guard said, “Little High Duke!”

The young man glanced around indifferently, raised his chin, and said arrogantly, “Whoever goes hunting with me will get ten taels each!”

The servant immediately said, “Little High Duke! I'm willing to go with you!”

The young man looked at him and then at Su Ergou. “What about you? You're not going? Are you afraid of danger too?”

Su Ergou was naturally not afraid of danger. He was fetching water.

However, the water could be drawn later. Anyway, the mountain spring could not run away.

“Can I go?” Su Ergou asked.

His sister had said that he could not run around. He had to get the owner's permission. This young man should be the owner of this place, right?

The young man said calmly, “As long as you're not afraid.”

Su Ergou said, “I'm not afraid!”

The young man threw the horsewhip to Su Ergou. “Take the horse.”

Su Ergou said, “I don't know how.”

The servant hurriedly brought the horsewhip over and smiled brightly. “I'll do it. I'll hold the horse for you!”

The young man snorted and stepped on the stirrups to get on the horse.

Chapter 179

Seeing that his young master was really leaving just like that, the guard was stumped. In the end, he made up his mind and followed.

The group entered the mountain.

Su Ergou rarely hunted. Firstly, his father and sister did not allow it. Secondly, he was not very good at it.

But this person did not say that he had to be the one hunting.

Su Ergou thought for a moment. Ten taels of silver could buy many things for his family.

His father, his sister, his brother-in-law, Dahu, Erhu, Xiaohu…

Unknowingly, the group had already entered the forest.

It was not difficult for the young man to ride on the horse.

The attendant and the servant were exhausted. Although they were servants, they were not the kind who did rough work. Otherwise, the servant would not have been unable to even push a cart.

On the other hand, Su Ergou, the youngest, had been walking at the front without panting.

The young man muttered unhappily, “It's been so long, why haven't I seen any prey?”

“Little High Duke! Look!” The servant pointed at the grass not far away and whispered, “There's a bamboo rat!”

The young man finally perked up. He nocked an arrow and shot at the bamboo rat!

Unfortunately, it missed and the bamboo rat ran away.

The young man frowned.

The group continued forward.

After the first bamboo rat appeared, it seemed to be easier to encounter prey. The young man first encountered a pair of rabbits, then an elk and several pheasants.

However, he did not hit any of the animals successfully.

The young man was furious.

“What lousy bow!”

He threw the bow and arrow to the ground in disdain!

The guard quickly picked it up and wiped it with his sleeve. “Little High Duke, the prey in this forest is too cunning. Why don't we go back first and call a few young masters over!”

The young man glared at him. “You mean I'm not as good as my cousins?”

The guard said awkwardly, “That's not what I meant…”

The young man snorted and said, “If any of you can hunt any prey today, I'll reward you with ten taels! Two, twenty taels! I have a lot of money. It depends on whether you have the ability to take it!”

As soon as these words were spoken, who could stay idle?

The attendant and servant all began to catch rabbits and chickens.

Su Ergou did not move.

The young man asked him, “You don't want silver?”

Su Ergou said, “Prey that grows in the forest runs faster than poultry. You can't catch it.”

“Boring!”

As soon as the young man finished speaking, Su Ergou took out a slingshot from somewhere and shot a stone at the bushes in front of him.

Tip!

It sounded like he had hit something!

The young man was stunned.

The servant and the guard also stopped. They looked at the young man and Su Ergou, then at the motionless grass.

Could this kid have really hit it?

Their little High Duke could not even hit a prey with a bow and arrow. How could he hit something with a broken slingshot?

Su Ergou walked over and dug open the grass to take a look.

Eh?

Bingo.

To be honest, he did not expect to hit it either.

His sister's slingshot was so useful! Its accuracy was too good!

The young man said to the servant and attendant, “Did you see that? The two of you, learn more from him!”

The attendant muttered, “It's just blind luck!”

Tip!

Su Ergou hit another rabbit.

The attendant stammered, “That, that was a nest of rabbits, to begin with. It was very easy to fight.”

Tip!

Su Ergou hit another pheasant.

Su Ergou gradually realized the joy of playing with a slingshot. Although he did not hit the target every time, he was the only one in the group who could hit accurately. He had hunted a total of three rabbits and two pheasants.

In total, it was 50 taels!

Su Ergou was very happy.

The young man was unhappy.

Why couldn't he hit it with a bow and arrow, but this country servant could hit it with a slingshot?

“Show me your slingshot,” the young man said to Su Ergou.

“Oh.” Su Ergou handed the slingshot to the young man.

The young man found the servants in the countryside dirty, but he could not resist his curiosity about the slingshot. He frowned and took it.

It was a little heavy. He didn't know what it was made of. It was strange. He had never seen it before.

He pulled.

The elasticity was better than the slingshot he had played with before.

“So it's the slingshot.”

As long as he used this slingshot, he would definitely hunt more prey than this countryside slave.

Coincidentally, at this moment, a little pheasant stuck its head out from behind the tree.

“Quick, give me the stone,” the young man said to Su Ergou.

Su Ergou looked at the remaining three stones in his pocket and gave him one.

The young man missed.

He gritted his teeth. “Give me another one! Give me all of them!”

Seeing that it was 50 taels, no, 60 taels, Su Ergou contributed the remaining two stones.

Unfortunately, the young man was really good-looking but useless. He did not catch a single prey.

“A broken slingshot! It's not useful at all!” The young man threw the slingshot up in frustration.

Su Ergou frowned. “Why did you throw my slingshot?”

Su Ergou bent down to pick up the slingshot.

The young man pulled the reins tightly and raised them. The horse raised its front hooves and stomped down!

The slingshot broke under the hard horseshoe.

Su Ergou was furious!

This was the slingshot his sister had made for him!

Su Ergou glared at him angrily.

The young man glanced at Su Ergou. “You dare to glare at me?”

“Why can't I glare at you?”

“I'm even going to beat you up!”

The little bully who had his slingshot broken was in a terrible mood.

The young man was still adding oil to the fire. “Do you believe that I'll dig out your eyeballs? Why are you still glaring?”

The young man lashed out with his whip!

Su Ergou tried his best to suppress his anger until the whip landed squarely on his face.

Su Ergou completely erupted. He wrapped one arm around the young man's whip and pulled him down!

The young man fell off the horse in a sorry state!

“Little High Duke!”

The attendant and servant's expressions changed.

Su Ergou said coldly, “I'll return this whip to you!”

Su Ergou slapped the young man's handsome face!

“Ah—” The young man screamed in fear.

In the blink of an eye, a tall figure rode his horse over. Seeing that it was too late, he rose into the air and kicked Su Ergou's chest—

Bang!

A long sword blocked his attack!

He flipped a few times and stabilized himself beside the young man.

He looked at the other party coldly.

The other party also used his movement technique. The difference was that the other party chose to stand in front of Su Ergou.

Su Ergou stuck his head out and looked at the young man blocking his way. “Eh? Young Master Jing?”

The young man was stunned. “Brother Jing?”

The guard's face was cold as he asked calmly, “I didn't know that Young Marquis Jing had arrived. Sorry for not welcoming you. However, what does Young Marquis Jing mean?”

The young man glared at Su Ergou and snorted disdainfully. “That's right, Brother Jing. This slave is so detestable! Not only did he pull me off the horse just now, but he also tried to whip me! Hurry up and teach him a lesson for me!”

“He's not a slave!” Jing Yi said coldly and turned to ask Su Ergou, “What's wrong with your face?”

Su Ergou pointed at the young man and said, “That person broke the slingshot made by my sister!”

Chapter 180

The guard asked, “Does Young Marquis Jing know this person?”

Jing Yi said, “He's the brother of a friend of mine.”

The guard looked at Su Ergou skeptically. “I wonder who is that young master in the capital I've never seen.”

Jing Yi's friends were either rich or noble, but this person's clothes did not look like a young master of an aristocratic family.

“You don't know my friend,” Jing Yi said.

The guard sized up Su Ergou carefully. No matter how he looked at it, he did not think that Su Ergou was someone with status.

The guard said calmly, “He injured my young master. We can't let this matter go. What do you think, Young Marquis Jing?”

Jing Yi asked with a deep gaze, “What do you plan to do?”

The guard said coldly, “He can sever his arm, or I can cripple his arm.”

Jing Yi said word by word, “You can't touch this person. If you don't believe me, try me.”

The guard frowned.

The two most difficult young people to get along with in the capital were the youngest son of the Wei family and the young marquis in front of him.

Although the Young Marquis was young, his martial arts were not weak. If they really fought, he would not be able to gain an advantage.

Not to mention…

The guard looked at Su Ergou deeply. He was clearly a poor boy. How did he obtain the protection of Young Marquis Jing?

Their young master and Young Marquis Jing had grown up together. Logically speaking, his young master should be in Young Marquis Jing's circle.

The guard was puzzled, let alone the young man.

The young man frowned and said, “Brother Jing, why are you protecting a slave!”

Jing Yi said coldly, “I'll say it again. He's not a slave!”

The young man's eyes trembled.

He… was very afraid of Jing Yi.

He was even more afraid of him than he was of the Third Prince.

The Third Prince had a gentle personality and was a modest and polite gentleman. He usually did not put on airs and took good care of juniors like them.

Jing Yi was different. This guy was unreasonable. Other than the Third Prince, he would not give anyone respect.

Jing Yi said to Su Ergou, “Ergou, let's go.”

Su Ergou followed Jing Yi.

When he brushed past the young man, Su Ergou suddenly pounced forward, snatched the whip, and whipped the young man!

The whip hit the young man's face. The young man's face was swollen at a visible speed.

The guard's expression turned cold as he slapped Su Ergou!

Jing Yi pulled Su Ergou to the other side and punched the guard!

The guard gritted his teeth. “Young Marquis!”

Jing Yi's internal force shook, causing the guard to take a few steps back.

Su Ergou glared at this group of people fiercely. He bent down and picked up the broken slingshot. He gently blew away the grass on it and held it carefully.

Jing Yi left with Su Ergou.

After taking a few steps, he turned around and looked into the depths of the forest.

He frowned slightly.

He wasn't sure if it was his imagination, but someone seemed to be in the dark.

However, in the next second, the aura disappeared again.

The two of them walked away.

The young man was so angry that he threw all the bows and arrows at the horse and kicked the horse twice!

The guard was shocked and hurriedly grabbed the reins to prevent the horse from going crazy.

The young man gritted his teeth and said, “I'm going to look for the Third Prince and tell him what his cousin has done!”

The guard turned around and looked at the frightened attendant and servant.

“Little High Duke went out hunting. Didn't you know how to stop him? You even let strangers approach him. I think you want to die!”

The two of them knelt down.

The attendant pointed at the servant. “Guard Li, it's none of my business. He brought him here!”

The servant panicked and said, “He's a servant of the Su family! He saw me pushing a cart of things and came over to help me! Moreover… Moreover, it was the young master who wanted to bring him…”

The guard said coldly, “Hmph, neither of you can escape punishment!”

The young man saw Young Master Xiang talking to Grandpa Su in the east room of the courtyard.

“Third… Young Master Xiang, Uncle,” he greeted listlessly.

Su Yuan glanced at him. “What happened to your face?”

The young man lowered his head, his eyes red and aggrieved.

“Speak!” Su Yuan said in a low voice.

The young man said gloomily, “A servant from Uncle's family beat me up. Young Marquis Jing knows him and let him go.”

Su Yuan was puzzled. “How does Young Marquis Jing know my servants? He even let them go?”

This was definitely not as simple as knowing each other.

Su Yuan continued, “What's that servant's name?”

The young man thought for a moment. “I heard Young Marquis Jing call him… Ergou.”

Young Master Xiang stopped drinking his tea.

Jing Yi sent Su Ergou back to the small courtyard where the snacks were made.

Su Xiaoxiao was a little surprised to see the two of them come over together. Then, she saw Su Ergou's slightly swollen cheek.

Her eyes darkened. “Who did it?”

There was a clear whip mark on his cheek. It was obvious that he had not fallen.

Su Ergou told Su Xiaoxiao what had happened. “…I didn't suffer a loss. I slapped him back! His face is more swollen than mine!”

“It's good that you didn't suffer a loss.” Su Xiaoxiao paused and said seriously, “Don't fight on your own next time. Get me to come along!”

The guards in the capital were definitely not something the hooligans in town and the prefecture capital could compare to.

They had real skills.

They really did not care about human lives.

It was all thanks to Jing Yi this time.

“Got it, Sister,” Su Ergou agreed.

Su Xiaoxiao continued, “I just made snacks. Do you want some?”

Su Ergou said heartlessly, “Yes!”

Jing Yi finally understood why Su Ergou was not afraid of death. If he was fierce, she was even fiercer.

None of the siblings were cowards.

Su Ergou sat inside and ate snacks while Su Xiaoxiao sent Jing Yi out.

“Thank you for protecting Ergou.”

“No need,” Jing Yi said.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “By the way, how are your injuries recovering?”

Jing Yi moved his arm. “It doesn't hurt anymore.”

“Who's that little prince?” She had to know who the brat who bullied Su Ergou was.

Jing Yi was silent. If ordinary people asked him, he would not answer.

But he didn't hate talking to her.

He said, “His surname is Qin and his name is Qin Yun. He's the young master of the Duke Protector's Estate. His grandfather has contributed greatly and was conferred the title of first-grade Duke Protector. It's hereditary for three generations. Coincidentally, it's the third generation when it comes to him.”

“What will happen in three generations?” Su Xiaoxiao was a little curious.

“Demotion,” Jing Yi said.

“Oh.” Su Xiaoxiao thought for a moment and said, “His surname is Qin. This family's surname is Su…”

Jing Yi said, “Old Marquis Su's sister married the Protector Duke. Many years ago, Old Marquis Su returned to his hometown to pay respects to his ancestors and brought the Duchess and her son along. Unexpectedly, they were assassinated halfway. The Duchess unfortunately died, and the whereabouts of the Duchess's child was unknown. The two families searched for a long time, but they couldn't find the child. It was not until ten years later that the child returned to the capital.”

“That child is the newly appointed Duke, Qin Yun's father. Perhaps because he has suffered among the commoners, the Qin family and the Su family have tried their best to compensate him. His son, Qin Yun, has also been spoiled by the two families.”

“Also.”

Jing Yi paused.

“What?”

“My cousin is engaged to the Duke Protector's Estate. The person he is to marry is Qin Yun's sister.”

Chapter 181

In a room, Qin Yun sat on the bed with a swollen face. A servant used an ice bag to apply the swelling.

The servant and the attendant had been beaten 50 times and had long fainted.

At this moment, a few other servants were serving him.

Qin Yun snorted. “Just you wait. Brother-in-law will definitely stand up for me!”

The servant who was applying an ice pack for him said, “Little High Duke, Jing Yi is Third… Young Master's cousin.”

Qin Yun said without thinking, “So what if he's his cousin? Is he very close? My sister is about to marry him. He's my brother-in-law! I'm his brother-in-law! No matter what, he has to help me! Moreover, that wretched slave even whipped me! It's fine if Jing Yi didn't stop me, but he even watched him bully me! Cousin won't side with Jing Yi!”

The servant said awkwardly, “Are you angry with that little servant, or with the Young Marquis?”

“That wretched slave can forget about escaping!” Qin Yun continued. “By the way, what did my uncle say? Did you capture the wretched slave?”

The servant's smile was uglier than his crying. “No, he's already gone.”

Qin Yun's expression changed. “What?!”

Su Xiaoxiao ended today's business.

She thought that such a big thing had happened and that their business would be ruined two days later tomorrow. Who would have thought that Steward Yu would come over and say that the banquet would only open at noon? They could sleep more tomorrow and come over later.

Su Xiaoxiao asked, “Do you want to… ask your master again? We beat up your relative.”

Steward Yu smiled. “I've investigated clearly. Brother Ergou is not at fault for what happened today. My master can't leave today and asked me to convey his apology. He will discipline the little High Duke well later.”

On the way back, Su Ergou couldn't help but say, “Sister, this family doesn't seem bad.”

“Yes.” Su Xiaoxiao nodded and didn't deny it.

However, she could not rule out another possibility. The other party had done this out of courtesy to Grandmaster Hui Jue and Jing Yi.

When they arrived at the inn, Manager Sun had yet to return. Like Su Xiaoxiao, he was a workaholic.

Seeing that Xiaowu was driving the carriage again, Su Xiaoxiao stopped him. “Xiaowu, eat something first. We'll pick up Manager Sun later.”

Xiaowu's heart warmed. “Yes, Boss.”

Su Xiaoxiao brought Su Ergou into the inn.

A familiar voice came from behind. “Miss Su!”

Su Xiaoxiao turned around. “Changping?”

She said to Su Ergou, “Go up first.”

“Oh.” Su Ergou obediently went upstairs.

Changping jumped out of the carriage and came to Su Xiaoxiao. He handed the bag in his arms to her and curled his lips. “Here.”

Su Xiaoxiao didn't take it.

Changping panicked. “Take it!”

Su Xiaoxiao said calmly, “I don't even know what's inside. Why should I take it?”

“It's not you… I…that…” Changping made Su Xiaoxiao speechless. Could he harm her? Didn't she know whose servant he was?

If not for his young master's instructions, would he have come over to deliver something to her? Since his young master was taking action, he had to have something good!

“Young Master asked me to give it to you,” Chang Ping explained unwillingly. “There's Young Master's compensation and the money your brother earned from Young Master.”

His young master was really biased!

It was as if this country bumpkin was his biological brother-in-law!

Su Xiaoxiao raised her eyebrows. “In that case, I'll reluctantly accept it.”

Changping rolled his eyes. Did she want him to accept the money on her behalf?

Su Xiaoxiao said fiercely, “I caught you rolling your eyes again. I'll tell your young master!”

Changping's eyes froze. “I, no. I have cramps in my eyes.”

With that, he got into the carriage dejectedly.

Su Xiaoxiao carried her bag upstairs.

Su Ergou was sitting alone in the house, feeling dejected.

It was fine if he was whipped. He was not afraid of pain. Besides, he had already whipped that person back.

His heart ached for his silver. That little bastard owed him 60 taels. He was so angry just now that he forgot to ask him for it.

So sad.

Knock, knock, knock.

There was a knock on the door.

“Ergou, it's me.”

Su Xiaoxiao.

“Sister, I want to sleep for a while,” Su Ergou whispered.

Su Xiaoxiao pushed the door open.

Su Ergou muttered, “Sister, I said I want to sleep…”

Su Xiaoxiao took out one gold ingot, two gold ingots, three, four, five… She took a total of twelve.

One ingot was worth five taels.

Su Ergou's eyes widened. “Sister?”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “The money you earned was sent over.”

“I, I, I, I…” Su Ergou came to the stool excitedly and sat down. He looked at the table that was full… He didn't care. It was a big table!

“Were they sent back? Did I earn all of them?”

“Yes, you earned it.”

She naturally knew that it was not given by Qin Yun. It was Young Master Xiang's own idea. He was cleaning up his brother-in-law's mess.

However, seeing how happy Ergou was, she saw through it and did not say anything.

Su Ergou was so excited that he rolled on the bed.

This was the money he earned.

He earned it herself.

This was the first time he had earned so much money.

He was really capable!

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Alright, I'll go over first. Sleep for a while.”

Su Ergou scratched his head. “Ah, Sister, I'm not sleepy anymore.”

Su Xiaoxiao threw him a bottle of ointment. “If you're not tired, apply the ointment. Go downstairs for dinner later.”

“Alright!”

Actually, he did not need to apply medication. He had already recovered with his tenacious silver superpower!

Su Ergou, who had a swollen face, hugged the silver.

Su Xiaoxiao returned to her room. The three little ones and Wei Ting were also there.

The first and third children had clearly just returned from outside. Wei Ting was wiping their sweat, and the soles of their shoes were still stained with sand.

There was no sand around Half Moon Mountain.

She did not believe that he had brought the children to play with the sand. He was most likely completing some secret mission.

How could ordinary people do anything with so many children?

In other words, the three of them were obedient and never ran around or cried.

Su Xiaoxiao walked over. “Let me do it.”

It was really difficult for him to wipe the sweat with a cloth.

Dahu grabbed the towel in his stinky father's hand with both hands and snorted. “Mother, come!”

Wei Ting chuckled. “You're capable!”

“Mother, here.” Dahu handed over the towel and his little head.

Erhu and Xiaohu were not to be outdone. They handed over their little heads.

The corners of Wei Ting's mouth twitched. They dodged when he wiped them but when it came to their mother, they would offer themselves.

Wait, what did he mean by their mother?

It was fine if he used the term to coax the three brats, but how could he shout like this in his heart?

He must have become used to coaxing the children.

He had to pay more attention in the future and could not call her that anymore.

Xiaohu suddenly covered his butt and jumped in front of Wei Ting. “Dad, poop stinks.”

Wei Ting snorted. “Aren't you going to look for your mother this time?”

Chapter 182

Business went surprisingly smoothly for the next two days. Su Xiaoxiao and Su Ergou stayed in the small courtyard to make snacks and did not meet Qin Yun again.

Qin Yun did not cause trouble for them. It was unknown if he did not care or if he was really disciplined.

After three days of business, they received their remuneration, which was 100 taels more than Manager Sun had agreed on.

Manager Sun only returned late that night and did not know about the fight between Su Ergou and Qin Yun.

He looked at the banknote in his hand and asked Steward Yu, “Did you give the wrong amount?”

He was greedy for money, but every tael of silver had to be earned legitimately. He would not take such things that others had carelessly given him.

Steward Yu smiled. “I didn't pay the wrong amount. Your snacks are very delicious. You deserve this.”

Therefore, Manager Sun thought that the other 100 taels were a reward from the big family. This was not strange. Some decent big families were generous and would reward them when they were happy.

Manager Sun smiled and thanked him. He took out two large ingots from his pouch and stuffed them into Steward Yu's hand.

Steward Yu declined.

“Take it, take it!” Manager Sun stuffed it into his arms. “Thank you for taking care of us for the past three days.”

Steward Yu smiled and said, “I actually didn't do anything.”

Manager Sun said to him sincerely, “Sigh, how can I not understand the personalities of my two little bosses? They will definitely cause trouble wherever they go. They've been here for three days. Can I believe that they didn't cause trouble for three days? You probably had to watch them closely!”

Steward Yu said in a daze, “Uh… you still don't know?”

Manager Sun said, “What?”

Steward Yu said, “On the first day you came here, Brother Ergou slapped my young master.”

Manager Sun was speechless.

After finishing work early today, Su Xiaoxiao decided to visit Grandmaster Hui Jue in the nunnery.

Wei Ting looked at the three little ones in the room. “I'm going out. Are you with me, or…”

The three little ones took three steps back in unison and hugged Su Xiaoxiao's leg.

Su Xiaoxiao chuckled. This guy clearly didn't want to take care of the children and deliberately asked this, making it seem like it was the choice of Dahu, Erhu, and Xiaohu.

How scheming!

However, seeing that he looked like he was going out to kill someone, she was a little worried if she really handed the children to him.

Su Xiaoxiao touched the heads of the three little ones. “Let's go climb a mountain.”

The three little ones cried out happily and ran around the house with their small hands raised.

Indeed, their relationship with their mother was biological, and their father was dispensable.

Su Xiaoxiao also brought Su Ergou along.

Wei Ting drove the carriage to the foot of the nunnery. “I'll pick you up in about four hours.”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Okay.”

The group alighted from the carriage.

The three little ones rushed up. Their calves were short, and the steps in front were short. They climbed quite quickly, but the terrain at the back was steep. When the steps were high, they could only use their hands and feet.

The three children climbed up. Dahu was the strongest and quickly left his two brothers behind.

Xiaohu was the weakest. As he crawled, he could not even see Dahu's butt.

He had given up again.

He lay down on the steps and stopped climbing!

Erhu looked at his lone warrior brother in front of him and then at his slacker brother behind him, wondering if he should be a determined lone warrior or a slacker.

Su Xiaoxiao and Su Ergou took turns carrying them, mainly Xiaohu and Erhu. Dahu climbed a lot himself.

This child was a real tiger.

After arriving at the nunnery, Su Xiaoxiao saw the little nuns from the last time.

Su Xiaoxiao's weight was too easy to recognize. The little nuns recognized her at a glance.

Of course, the little nuns also recognized the dark-skinned Ergou, who had helped them steal fruits.

“Patrons, are you here to look for Grandmaster Hui Jue?” a little nun asked.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Yes, is Grandmaster Hui Jue around?”

The little nun said, “Yes, but she is meeting guests now. You have to wait for a while. I'll bring you to the meditation room to sit.”

Due to their friendship of stealing fruits together, the little nuns invited Su Ergou in.

“Senior Sister, they're so cute.”

A ten-year-old nun pinched the faces of the three little ones.

The little nun who was called Senior Sister said with a serious expression, “You can't be rude to the young benefactors! Seriously, you children won't listen no matter what!”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “May I ask how old you are?”

The little nun raised her chin and said proudly, “Eleven!”

Su Xiaoxiao was speechless.

The eleven-year-old “senior” nun settled them in a meditation room in Grandmaster Hui Jue's courtyard.

The three little ones were very favored by the little nuns. The little nuns had never seen such cute children and they were triplets. None of them wanted to leave, so they stayed in the courtyard to play with them.

The eleven-year-old nun said in an elderly manner, “Amitabha. My junior sisters are young, and their words and actions are quite childish. Please forgive them.”

Su Xiaoxiao smiled and nodded.

The nun said seriously, “Have you finished memorizing the Buddhist scriptures? Have you digested the content of the morning class? Master is not around, so I'll do the evening class. I'll test you in the evening class!”

The little nuns pouted and reluctantly went to chant.

Only she and the three little ones were left in the courtyard.

The three little ones looked at her cutely.

She turned around and looked toward Su Xiaoxiao's meditation room. After confirming that no one was looking at the door, she squatted down, took out her hand, and pinched the little packrat's face!

Yayaya!

It was so soft!

How could they have such soft faces?

She rubbed and rubbed!

She really wanted to kiss them!

The three little ones who looked like all kinds of emojis were speechless.

“Then, I'll take my leave first. I'll visit you another day.”

In the meditation room, Su Yuan stood up and bade farewell to Mistress Hui Jue.

Grandmaster Hui Jue said, “Send my regards to your father.”

Su Yuan said, “I will. Please take care.”

Grandmaster Hui Jue asked, “Is your father's health still not improving?”

Su Yuan sighed and said, “It's the same as before. It's not too bad. It's just that on Aunt's death anniversary every year, he will fall ill.”

Mistress Hui Jue wanted to say something but hesitated. She paused and said, “You should head back.”

Su Yuan came out of the meditation room.

The little nun stopped pinching the three little ones and hurriedly straightened up. Her face was Buddhlike and empty.

Su Yuan looked at her and then at the three children at the side.

Triplets were too rare. Even Su Yuan could not help but look at them for a while longer.

The three children looked…

At this moment, Su Xiaoxiao walked out with a dry towel. “Dahu, Erhu, Xiaohu, come and wipe your sweat.”

Su Yuan retracted his gaze in time and moved aside to avoid bumping into her.

Su Xiaoxiao dodged to the side in time.

This agility made Su Yuan look sideways.

Su Xiaoxiao went to wipe the sweat off the three little ones.

Su Yuan took a few steps forward. For some reason, he turned around and looked at the little fat girl.

Chapter 183

The little girl was chubby and dressed in simple and clean clothes. Although he did not know her, she gave him a very amiable feeling.

It was strange to say that because the little girl's expression and actions were completely different from amiability.

She crossed her arms and lazily leaned against the door frame with a cold expression on her face.

The triplets ran towards her.

At this moment, the coldness between her eyebrows dissipated.

She smiled, revealing two cute dimples.

Su Yuan was in a daze.

Immediately after, Su Yuan saw a little nun walk over and bring the little girl to Grandmaster Hui Jue's meditation room.

Su Yuan could guess who she was.

Grandmaster Hui Jue introduced him to the little girl from Su Ji who made snacks for them.

Su Yuan returned to the manor.

The eldest son, Su Mo, came forward. He sensed that something was wrong with his father's expression and hurriedly asked, “Father, what's wrong? Did something happen to Grandmaster Hui Jue?”

Su Yuan shook his head. “No, Grandmaster is fine.”

Su Mo personally served his father a cup of tea. “Then you are…”

Su Yuan sat down and took the teacup. He said thoughtfully, “When I saw a little girl in the nunnery today, I suddenly thought of my aunt.”

Su Mo smiled. “Oh? Does she look like Grandaunt?”

“I can't say.”

It was hard for Su Yuan to describe her. If he were to say that she looked like her, she didn't look that similar. But if he were to say that she didn't look like her, he couldn't help but think of his aunt's voice and smile when she smiled.

Su Mo said, “Father misses Grandaunt too much.”

Su Yuan nodded. “Your grandmother passed away early, and your grandfather was away from home all year round. It was my aunt who raised me. When she passed away, I was already twelve years old. I was old enough to remember.”

Su Mo had never seen his grandaunt before and did not have as deep of an understanding as Su Yuan. However, as a son, he understood his father's respect for his grandaunt.

Otherwise, she would not have loved him so much and treated him even better than her own son.

In the nunnery, Su Xiaoxiao met Grandmaster Hui Jue.

Compared to last time, Grandmaster Hui Jue's complexion was rosier. It was unknown if it was the effect of Aunt Fu's Health Pill.

Su Xiaoxiao handed over the bag that Aunt Fu asked her to pass to her.

Grandmaster Hui Jue said kindly, “It's been hard on you.”

Su Xiaoxiao shook her head. “It's nothing. Besides, you've helped me a lot. You were the one who recommended this business, right?”

Mistress Hui Jue smiled. “I just mentioned it casually. It was up to them whether they needed you or not.”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Then I have to thank you too!”

Grandmaster Hui Jue said, “Your brother has been wronged.”

“Oh?” Su Xiaoxiao was stunned for a moment before realizing that Grandmaster Hui Jue was referring to the fight between Su Ergou and Qin Yun.

She hummed and said, “It's alright. He returned the favor.”

“Oh?” This time, it was Master Hui Jue's turn to be surprised. When Su Yuan came over just now, he only said that Qin Yun had bullied the young man from Suji and did not take good care of the person she introduced. He felt very apologetic.

He didn't say anything wrong with Su Ergou.

In the next second, Grandmaster Hui Jue burst into laughter.

Su Xiaoxiao was speechless.

After Grandmaster Hui Jue had laughed enough, she gloated and said, “I can't stand that bastard brat. He's spoiled by the Qin and Su families. Your brother whipped him well.”

Su Xiaoxiao: “Oh.”

Grandmaster Hui Jue said, “Don't worry. Qin Yun won't dare to cause trouble for you. He won't be able to find you either. Su Yuan will keep a close eye on him. They will return to the capital in a few days.”

Su Yuan.

Was it that man's name?

Grandmaster Hui Jue said, “Your surnames are all Su. Speaking of which, it's fate.”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “We also have a family with the surname Su in our village.”

Grandmaster Hui Jue said gently, “It's not strange. Su is a big family name in Qingzhou. This is just like Li in Liu Province and Yang in Wu Province. There can be more than ten families in a village. In the past, there was a Su Village in East County. Thirty years ago, there was a disaster. Everyone fled or died. That village was gone.”

Su Xiaoxiao thought to herself if her father could have escaped from the Su Family Village.

Thinking of something, Grandmaster Hui Jue said, “I heard that you know medicine and even cured Ting Lan's old illness?”

It must have been written in Aunt Fu's letter.

It was rare for Su Xiaoxiao to be humble. “I know a little.”

Grandmaster Hui Jue smiled and said, “The fact that you can treat Ting Lan's illness is definitely not because you know a little. It's an illness that even her husband was helpless against.”

The Fu family had been practicing medicine for generations.

Grandmaster Hui Jue did not ask where Su Xiaoxiao was from. She sighed and said, “I have an old friend who has been plagued by an old illness for many years. Unfortunately, he can't meet a good physician like you.”

Su Xiaoxiao asked, “Where is your old friend?”

If it was close, she could go and show him.

Grandmaster Hui Jue replied, “In the capital.”

Su Xiaoxiao nodded. “The capital is too far away.”

The prefectural city and its surroundings were her current limit. If she went further, she would be too busy to attend to her family's matters.

Grandmaster Hui Jue smiled. “By the way, Miss Su, do you know how to play chess?”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Wuzi or checkers?”

Grandmaster Hui Jue was stunned. “Huh?”

Su Xiaoxiao understood. “Go? I don't know how.”

Grandmaster Hui Jue felt that the little girl was really fun and her words were fresh.

She said, “I'll teach you.”

That afternoon, while Su Xiaoxiao was playing chess in Mistress Hui Jue's meditation room, Su Ergou was encouraged by the little nuns to pick fruits again.

The three little ones did not want to pick the fruits.

“That's what all of you want to do!”

The eleven-year-old nun decisively dragged the three children away.

Although she was small, she was quite strong.

The three little ones were dragged away soullessly…

When Su Ergou and the three little ones returned to the nunnery, they had already become a dirty dog and three dirty tigers.

The group stayed in the nunnery until nighttime. Grandmaster Hui Jue asked them to stay for dinner. Su Xiaoxiao estimated that Wei Ting should be waiting for them at the foot of the mountain at this hour.

She politely declined Grandmaster Hui Jue's invitation.

The children played crazily for the entire afternoon without taking an afternoon nap. When they went down the mountain, they had only taken a few steps when the three little fellows started yawning.

Su Ergou carried one.

It was Xiaohu.

Xiaohu used his eyelids to express his last bit of stubbornness before falling asleep.

Su Xiaoxiao went to pick up Dahu and Erhu. She had just picked one up when a slender hand reached over.

“I'll do it.”

Wei Ting said softly.

Su Xiaoxiao retracted her hand and looked at him in shock. “Why did you go up the mountain? There are so many steps. Your leg…”

Halfway through her sentence, she realized that he did not use his walking stick.

“Is your leg healed?” she asked.

Wei Ting was stunned for a moment. His eyes moved and he replied indifferently, “Yes.”

Su Xiaoxiao narrowed her eyes suspiciously. “Why did it get better as soon as we arrived at the prefecture? You didn't pretend when you were home, did you? Then why aren't you pretending now? Let me guess, did you forget to take your walking stick because you couldn't wait to pick me up?”

Wei Ting also carried the Dahu in her arms and went down the mountain expressionlessly. “You're so talkative!”

Chapter 184

Su Ergou was also sleepy.

Su Xiaoxiao carried Xiaohu over.

The poor Xiaohu only saw his uncle before he fell asleep and did not know that his mother had carried him all the way.

After getting into the carriage, Su Ergou tilted his head and fell asleep.

Wei Ting had to drive, so he couldn't carry the children, and Su Xiaoxiao couldn't carry three by herself.

Su Xiaoxiao was thinking of a solution when she saw Wei Ting take out a blanket that had been placed in the car.

He spread the blanket flat on the floor of the compartment. “Put them there.”

Su Xiaoxiao asked, “Let them sleep… on the ground?”

“Yes.” Wei Ting was very calm.

The blanket was thick and soft. It didn't look like the children would catch a cold.

Su Xiaoxiao thought about it and gently put the three little ones on it. She sat down on the blanket herself in case the carriage jolted and the children rolled around.

“Is this how you used to travel?” She asked.

She had hired the carriage, but she had not prepared the blanket. Looking at Wei Ting's familiar manner, it was obvious that this was not the first time.

“Sometimes,” Wei Ting said.

He waved the whip, and the wheels began to turn.

Su Xiaoxiao touched the collars of the three little guys. They were not sweating.

“Wei Ting,” she said. “It turns out that there was a Su Family Village in the East City many years ago. After that, there was a disaster and the people in that village fled.”

Wei Ting said, “Are you suspecting that your father is from the Su Family Village?”

Wei Ting had long heard about Su Cheng being reduced to a cowherd in Willow Village.

Su Xiaoxiao said bluntly, “A little.”

Wei Ting did not say anything else.

The next day, Su Xiaoxiao went to visit Shen Chuan.

Shen Chuan's condition was much better than before. It was obvious that he had worked hard to adapt to life in the prefecture academy. He was a tenacious person.

After lunch, the group went back to Apricot Flower Town by carriage.

When they arrived in town, it was already late at night. Su Xiaoxiao decided to visit Aunt Fu tomorrow.

The two carriages arrived at the village one after another and stopped in front of Little Su's house.

Su Xiaoxiao woke Su Ergou up and got off the carriage with Wei Ting.

Su Xiaoxiao said to Xiaowu, “Xiaowu, you can go back first. I'll take the carriage to town tomorrow and return it.”

Xiaowu nodded. “Alright, Boss. I'll take my leave first.”

“Sister, I'm going in too.” Su Ergou was extremely confused.

“Go to Father's room.” Su Xiaoxiao reminded him.

“Oh.” Su Ergou seemed to be in a daze as he slowly walked into Father Su's room.

Su Xiaoxiao and Wei Ting also carried the children back to the house.

Wei Ting led the horse to the backyard. The carriage was too big and could only be placed at the door.

In ancient times, it was fine to sit in a carriage for a while or two, but a long journey like this was really tiring.

After washing up, Su Xiaoxiao lay on the bed, unable to lift a finger.

She was still a fatty. She had so much fat that she was earthquake-resistant. Wei Ting and the other thin people would probably feel even worse.

“Wei Ting, yes, yes, yes…”

“When we have money in the future, we must build roads first. We don't want bumpy dirt roads. We want flat cement roads. You don't know how smooth and satisfying it is to race on that road…”

Wei Ting did not hear a single word clearly. Then, a certain someone's small nose emitted even breathing.

Wei Ting looked at the three children sleeping soundly on the bed. Perhaps it was because they had been together for a long time, but they even looked the same when they slept.

A complicated look flashed across Wei Ting's eyes.

His leg injury had healed, and he had obtained the Commander's Seal and the items from the prefecture capital. It was time… to consider returning to the capital.

Father Su was woken up by the three little fellows.

“Grandpa.”

Dahu lay on the bed and called to him.

“Grandpa!”

“Grandpa!”

Erhu and Xiaohu also came over.

Father Su's eyes lit up. “Eh? You're back? Dahu! Erhu! Xiaohu!”

The three of them had dark expressions.

Xiaohu pointed at himself and then at his two brothers beside him. “It's Xiaohu, Dahu, Erhu! Grandpa, you're mistaken again!”

“Ahem! I forgot to count the hair swirls.” Su Cheng coughed lightly and asked, “Where's your mother?”

“The kitchen, making pancakes,” said Erhu.

Dahu pushed a small box in front of him. “Mother bought it.”

Did his daughter buy him a gift again?

Father Su picked it up and weighed it in his hand.

Oh, it was quite heavy.

Not tea leaves.

Well, he hadn't finished the tea leaves that were bought the last time.

Father Su opened the box curiously and realized that there was an exquisite white jade hair crown inside.

Mr. Su was not a cultured man. When he was young, he was a cowherd. When he grew up, he became a bully. Even when he was a bodyguard, he had never worn such a fancy thing.

Chapter 185

“It's not like I'm the old master of the town. What's the point of spending this money… Sigh, wouldn't it be a waste for me to wear it?”

His heart ached, and his eyes were burning.

Father Su carefully put away the crown and went to the kitchen to see his chubby daughter.

Was it an illusion? Why did he feel that his daughter had lost a lot of weight recently…

“Father, you're awake.” Su Xiaoxiao greeted him.

“Yes, I just woke up.” Su Cheng walked over with a serious expression.

“Do you like the crown?” Su Xiaoxiao asked.

Su Cheng said, “It's not easy for you to earn some money. Why did you buy that thing? It's not like the countryside people are interested in wearing that.”

Villagers rarely used wooden hairpins. They wrapped their hair in cloth.

Su Xiaoxiao cut a piece of ginger. “My father has to have what others have.”

It was a very casual sentence as if she was saying that the weather today was so good that it was the best time to pick some cabbages.

Su Cheng's heart was boiling hot.

“Daughter…”

“Don't cry!”

Su Cheng held it in for a second…

After Su Xiaoxiao cut the ginger slices, she chopped some chili.

Su Cheng peeled garlic for her. “Daughter, did anything happen in the prefecture capital this time?”

“No, it was fine.” Su Xiaoxiao heated the pot.

“Did you beat anyone up?” Father Su asked.

“I didn't,” Su Xiaoxiao said confidently.

Father Su felt very comforted. His daughter had grown up and didn't beat people up anymore.

“Ergou beat him up.” Su Xiaoxiao added.

Father Su's body trembled. “Who, who did he beat up? Could it be that young master from the Prefecture Lord's family?”

“No.” Su Xiaoxiao waved her hand. “We have already beaten him up. If he doesn't come to us, we won't beat him up a second time. We're reasonable people!”

Father Su said hesitantly, “Then this time, the one we beat up is… ”

Su Xiaoxiao said nonchalantly, “Oh, he's from the capital. He's the High Duke of the Public House.”

THUD!

Father Su fell!

Father Su angrily went to teach his son a lesson.

Just as he reached the door, he saw Su Ergou holding a heavy bucket with both hands and getting out of the carriage with great difficulty.

Liu Ping wanted to take it, but he refused.

“There's water here. It's easy to spill it. The bucket lid doesn't work either. I'll do it myself. Brother Liu, move aside.”

He was 14 years old and was carrying a bucket that was heavier than a stone block. His palms were red and the veins on his arms were throbbing.

“Father!” Su Ergou carried two buckets of water down. When he looked up and saw his father, he smiled innocently. “I got you spring water from the prefecture capital! It's so sweet!”

Stupid child, who the f*ck would bring two buckets of water all the way here…

Father Su's heart swelled as he clenched his fists.

Forget it, he would beat him up next time!

Over the past few days, nothing had gone wrong with the family's business. Little Wu was becoming more and more proficient in making snacks. In addition, with Little Madam Zhao helping her, the production of snacks increased immediately.

The accounts at home were also handed over to Little Wu to record.

It was her first time doing accounts, so she replaced the words she didn't know how to write with drawings. It was quite decent.

Su Xiaoxiao flipped through it. “You did a good job.”

It was clear that she was not as professional as Su Yuniang, but for a beginner, it was already commendable.

Looking at the numbers, Su Xiaoxiao was shocked.

In the past, when she made three hundred pancakes, her net profit could reach more than two taels. Coupled with one tael from the braised meat business, she could earn four taels a day. If the quantity was higher, it would not exceed five taels.

But what happened in the few days she was away from home? Why did the profits double?

There were still so many pancakes…

Su Xiaoxiao exclaimed, “A hundred coins?”

There were several accounts, and the wife cakes were sold for 100 copper coins each.

Who was so arrogant?

Madam Wu said in a low voice, “These girls were from the Yihong Courtyard.”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Do they like Li Xiaoyong?”

Li Xiaoyong was indeed a little handsome.

Madam Wu said, “No, they were there for Uncle Su.”

Su Xiaoxiao was speechless.

Su Yuniang returned to Little Su's house at noon the next day.

Su Xiaoxiao originally thought that she went out to “do something” to avoid suspicion with Father Su. After all, everyone in the family had gone out. If she was alone at home with Father Su, they could be gossiped about.

Who knew that this little rich lady was really going to do something big?

In the east room, Su Xiaoxiao was recording the accounts.

Su Yuniang gulped down a few mouthfuls of tea. “My legs have been broken from running for the past few days. My mouth is dry and I'm almost exhausted to death. The heavens don't disappoint those who work hard. I've really found out something.”

“What did you investigate?” Su Xiaoxiao asked.

“Old Su's family background.” Su Yuniang said, “It has something to do with your family.”

Chapter 186

Su Yuniang planned to establish her own family. In order to prevent the Su family from causing trouble, she wanted to have something on the Su family.

Initially, she was just going to try her luck. Who would have thought that she would really gain something?

Su Yuniang suddenly sneered. “Do you know how much money my great-grandfather sold that jade pendant for?”

Su Xiaoxiao asked, “How much?”

Su Yuniang extended a finger.

Su Xiaoxiao asked, “10 taels?”

Su Yuniang glared at her. “Are ancestral jade pendants only sold for 10 taels each?”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Isn't that the desolate year? If the market isn't good, pawnshops will lower the price.”

These words made Su Yuniang fall silent. That's right, they could sell it for so much during the desolate years. If not for the desolate years…

Heavens, just how valuable was that jade pendant?

She sighed. “That's true, but there's never a shortage of good things.”

Su Xiaoxiao asked, “100 taels?”

Su Yuniang said, “1,000 taels.”

That was 1,000 taels of silver from 30 years ago. How much wealth was that? It was enough for a family to eat for several lifetimes!

The Su family had spent less than a hundred taels to help the villagers.

What was this bullsh*t about eating chaff and swallowing vegetables?

There were 900 taels of snowflake silver stored at home. They could afford to eat bird's nest every day!

At the thought of this, Su Yuniang felt disgusted. “I've investigated the price and quantity of food back then. I've also bought the account book.”

If the Su family did not put on a show, everyone might not have had anything to say. After all, they sold their own property. They could spend it however they wanted. It was their prerogative to take out as much as they wanted to help their fellow villagers. No matter how much it was, it was a great act.

“The Su family doesn't do anything decent. There's going to be a good show, but…” Su Xiaoxiao paused and asked, “You just said that it's related to our Su family. What do you mean?”

Su Yuniang chuckled. She was not laughing at Su Xiaoxiao, but at the shameless Su family.

She took out a jade pendant and threw it on the table. “Here.”

The moment Su Xiaoxiao saw the jade pendant, she subconsciously touched her neck. The jade pendant was still there.

Then, she picked it up and took a look. No, it wasn't her half of the jade pendant.

Su Xiaoxiao took out her jade pendant and put the two pieces together. The pattern was complete.

“A pair? That's not right. This texture…” Su Xiaoxiao touched the jade pendant that Su Yuniang brought back. “It's imitation, right?”

This girl's eyesight was not bad. Su Yuniang had examined it for more than two hours.

Su Yuniang asked, “Does it look like it?”

Su Xiaoxiao touched the patterns on the jade pendant and said, “It looks like it. It's indeed real jade, but the texture is too tender. It's stained, right?”

Su Yuniang was surprised. “You know this?”

Su Xiaoxiao said calmly, “A little.”

In her previous life, she had learned a little from Madam Li but was not very proficient.

Su Yuniang said, “If I hadn't seen your jade pendant, I would most likely have been fooled and bought it as a real and valuable item. This is the imitation of the jade pendant that the Su family pawned back then. The original authentic piece is a pair with your jade pendant.”

“Didn't you say that your family's jade pendant was picked up by your father when he was young? My grandfather had seen your family's jade pendant before. If the jade pendant originally belonged to the Su family, my grandfather would definitely not allow me to ask San Lang to return the jade pendant to you.”

“Besides, all these years, I've never heard my family mention that the jade pendant that was sold back was one of a pair. They also never mentioned a lost piece.”

Su Xiaoxiao said thoughtfully, “Looks like the jade pendant that the Su family sold back then wasn't a family heirloom at all. It was also an item of unknown origin.”

He picked up someone else's item and sold it. He even bragged about it as his family's ancestral jade pendant. How shameless.

Su Yuniang recalled, “My grandfather's reaction to your family was very strange. I suspect that he knew something.”

Chapter 187

Su Xiaoxiao was deep in thought.

Su Yuniang said, “I'll go to Old Su's house later to see if I can find out anything.”

“Did you encounter anything strange in the past few days?” Su Xiaoxiao was referring to whether the Su family had secretly caused trouble.

Su Yuniang frowned and said, “I almost forgot. There's nothing strange, but there's one strange person.”

“Who?” Su Xiaoxiao asked.

Su Yuniang wanted to say something but hesitated. “Forget it. There's no need to mention a person with a mental illness. Let's talk about you. How's the business in the prefecture? Did you mess it up?”

Su Xiaoxiao's face darkened. “What do you mean by messing it up? Can't you hope for me to be better?”

“Yes,” Su Yuniang said. “Did you mess it up?”

Su Xiaoxiao was speechless.

Su Xiaoxiao took out a stack of banknotes and placed them on the table.

Su Yuniang smiled. “Oh, not bad. It's 100 taels more than last time in the prefecture capital. Who did you extort this time?”

Su Xiaoxiao's face was serious. “I earned it myself!”

She would never admit that Ergou had fought with someone else!

Over the past few days, Su Yuniang had been searching for news. She was even more tired than Su Xiaoxiao and Su Ergou. After talking to Su Xiaoxiao, she went back to her room to catch up on sleep without eating.

The carriage was returned by Liu Ping. After he delivered the goods and took the orders, he returned to the village to settle the carriage.

When Liu Ping and Little Wu did things, they did not need anyone to say anything.

They could take the initiative to find something to do.

Although she did not have to return the carriage herself, she had two letters to hand to Madam Fu and Dean Shen.

After lunch, she went to town.

She went to see the Fu family first.

Other than handing the letter to Grandmaster Hui Jue, the other task was to remove the splint for Madam Fu.

Actually, Physician Fu could also dismantle it, but he had been making house calls these few days.

After Su Xiaoxiao removed the splint, she helped Madam Fu walk on the ground.

“How do you feel?” she asked.

“Nothing!” Aunt Fu exerted a little force. Her feet were strong, and she could feel that her bones had indeed healed.

At her age, her healing ability was extremely poor. Yet she recovered more quickly than most people with the same condition.

“Ouch!”

Her legs buckled.

Su Xiaoxiao gently raised her hand and supported her.

“You haven't used your strength in a long time. You have to get used to it for a while.”

Aunt Fu snorted, “Do I need you to tell me?”

She grabbed Su Xiaoxiao's hand and limped back to the bed.

“It still hurts a little.” She frowned. “Have I not recovered?”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “That's because you haven't been moving for a long time. Your joints and ligaments have either adhered or contractured. Through rehabilitation, I can pull away the adhesive ligaments and it won't hurt anymore.”

Aunt Fu said expressionlessly, “It sounds very painful.”

Su Xiaoxiao stretched out her chubby hand. “Come, come, come. I'll teach you.”

Aunt Fu sat on the bed and said shamelessly, “I'm sleepy.”

Su Xiaoxiao asked, “Is Physician Fu here?”

“He's not here… What are you doing?” Aunt Fu realized that something was wrong.

Su Xiaoxiao smiled evilly, bent down, picked her up, and ran!

Madam Fu was stunned

Su Xiaoxiao placed her in the backyard.

“Do you want to go back to your room?”

“Walk on your own.”

Aunt Fu's face darkened!

On the first day of Aunt Fu's rehabilitation, Su Xiaoxiao showed mercy and only “tortured” her for half an hour.

Then, Su Xiaoxiao carried a big bag of red peanuts and swaggered away.

Not long after she left, an inconspicuous carriage stopped at the entrance of the Fu residence.

The coachman came down and looked at the door plate. He reported to the man on the carriage, “Master, it's the Fu family.”

Su Yuan got off the carriage.

He looked at the old door and frowned slightly.

The coachman said, “Sir, the door is open.”

“Knock on the door,” Su Yuan said.

“Yes.” The coachman knocked on the door.

Madam Fu had just sent the little fiend away and was fuming. When she heard someone knocking on the door, she shouted angrily, “What are you knocking for? Can't you see that the door is open?”

She thought it was one of the neighbors.

He stood at the door but did not enter.

She said angrily, “If you have something to say, say it! My son isn't here! I'm not playing cards today!”

Her legs were about to break, and she didn't have any strength left!

Still, the other party didn't say anything. She walked to the central room with her walking stick.

When she saw Su Yuan in a navy blue robe, her expression froze.

A hint of surprise flashed across Su Yuan's eyes.

Aunt Fu realized that she was in a sorry state and her hair was messing after being tortured by the little girl. It was as if she had fought with someone…

She coughed lightly and casually pulled her hair. She asked indifferently, “Why is the prince here?”

Su Yuan bowed politely. “Madam Fu.”

Madam Fu said, “My status is low. I'm afraid the prince will shorten my lifespan by calling me Madam.”

“Old Madam Fu, you're being too serious.” Su Yuan looked at her leg. “Your leg is…”

“My leg is fine.” Aunt Fu did not want to talk about it. “Prince, why did you come all the way from the capital?”

Su Yuan said, “I'm performing the crowning ceremony for my son. So I'm bringing him back to the village to pay respects to his ancestors and burn incense for my aunt.”

Aunt Fu limped to the table and sat down. She glanced at the chair beside her. “If you don't mind, take a seat.”

Su Yuan sat down on the other side of the table.

Aunt Fu asked, “Which son of yours is he? Is he already getting married?”

“Second child.” Su Yuan said.

Aunt Fu recalled. “That little snotty slug?”

Su Yuan smiled. “Yes, it's him.”

His second child had an allergic reaction when he was young and had snot bubbles all day long.

He smiled and said, “Imperial Physician Fu cured him.”

Aunt Fu frowned. “You can't be here to chat with me, right? Did that old nun Hui Jue tell you where I live?”

Su Yuan said, “I did visit Grandmaster Hui Jue.”

Aunt Fu snorted.

Su Yuan continued, “To be honest, I'm here to ask for a favor. My father's chronic illness is getting worse. The doctors in the capital are helpless. I want to ask Imperial Physician Fu…”

“You're late. He's not here anymore,” Aunt Fu said calmly and asked strangely, “Didn't Hui Jue tell you?”

Su Yuan's heart ached. “I didn't ask.”

He had only inquired about Imperial Physician Fu's residence. How could he have expected Imperial Physician Fu to have passed away?

He opened his mouth. “Your son…”

Aunt Fu said, “He's out on a house call. I don't know when he'll be back. Besides, he can't treat the Marquis' illness.”

After Su Xiaoxiao came out of Spring Willow Alley, she walked to Wutong Academy and bumped into Liu Ping and Su Ergou.

“Eh? Sister!”

Su Ergou rushed forward excitedly.

“Da Ya.” Liu Ping also greeted her. “We're out to buy flour.”

“Are you done?” Su Xiaoxiao asked.

Liu Ping said, “We're done! It's just that there was not enough flour in the shops. We had to go to the warehouse to get it. We needed more time.”

Su Ergou asked, “Sister, where are you going?”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “I'm going to the Academy.”

Su Ergou immediately said, “I'll go with you!”

Su Xiaoxiao nodded. “Okay.”

Chapter 188

The siblings went to Wutong Academy together.

Although Su Ergou was 14 years old and seemed to have passed the age of being clingy, he was actually still a baby at heart. He liked to be with his sister.

“Sister, there are three pancakes left today!”

He couldn't bear to eat them and wanted to leave them for his sister, although his sister didn't lack food.

“You eat,” Su Xiaoxiao said.

Su Ergou took a bite of the pancake. “Are you still trying to lose weight? I don't think you're fat anymore.”

Compared to two months ago, Su Xiaoxiao could be considered to have lost a lot of weight, but she was still a little fatty.

Su Ergou had his own brother filter.

She had not doted on this brother for nothing.

As they spoke, the two of them arrived at the back door of the academy.

Su Ergou seemed to have suddenly been provoked and stuffed the last two pancakes into his mouth.

Then, he said, “There are no more pancakes!”

The lonely old man was speechless.

The weather today was not bad. Dean Shen brought Zhou Xing to the courtyard to dry his books.

Zhou Xing saw the siblings at the door and hurriedly said to Dean Shen, “Master, Miss Su and Brother Su are here.”

Dean Shen handed the book in his hand to Zhou Xing and asked him to continue drying the books.

The siblings went forward to greet Dean Shen. Dean Shen and Su Xiaoxiao went into the room to talk. Su Ergou was curious about what Zhou Xing was doing and squatted down to dry the books with him.

Others were showing off their books, but he was showing off himself.

In the study, Dean Shen asked a servant to serve tea to Su Xiaoxiao and said politely, “I heard that you came to look for me. I wasn't around because I went to another academy to teach.”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “I went to the prefecture city a few days ago. I wanted to ask if Dean Shen had anything for Shen Chuan.”

Thinking of his son, a trace of longing appeared in Dean Shen's eyes. No matter how strict he was with Shen Chuan, he was still his flesh and blood. Everything he did was for Shen Chuan's future.

“Miss Su, thank you. Is he… doing well in the prefecture city?”

Su Xiaoxiao thought for a moment. “To be honest, the first time I saw him, I didn't feel like he was in a good state.”

Dean Shen's heart tightened.

Su Xiaoxiao continued, “However, when I saw him this time, it was obvious that his condition is different. Dean Shen, you have a very capable son. Your decision to send him to the prefecture capital academy was the right one.”

Letting Shen Chuan train to become stronger in an unfamiliar environment might be Dean Shen's true motive for sending him to the prefecture city.

“This kid…” Dean Shen revealed a rare gratified smile.

Su Xiaoxiao took out a letter. “This is the letter Shen Chuan asked me to bring you.”

Dean Shen looked calm, but he was actually excited as he took the letter.

Su Xiaoxiao stood up and said, “Dean Shen, take your time. I'll leave first.”

Dean Shen sincerely urged her to stay. “Miss Su, have a meal before leaving.”

Su Xiaoxiao politely declined. “No, the children are still waiting. If we go back late, they'll make a fuss.”

Dean Shen had heard from his son that Miss Su was already the mother of three children. It was unbelievable. She was clearly still so young…

When Su Xiaoxiao came out of the study, she saw Su Ergou talking to Changping.

It was unknown what Su Ergou said, but Changping laughed out loud.

Halfway through his laughter, he saw Su Xiaoxiao.

He stopped laughing in a second. “I'll leave first. Let's talk next time.”

With that, he snorted coldly and walked away.

With Changping around, Young Master Xiang and Jing Yi should have returned to the academy.

As she was thinking, a servant pushed a wheelchair over.

In the wheelchair sat the square-faced Wu Mu.

It was this square-faced man who caught her digging in the snow and wanted to search her for the token.

Su Xiaoxiao suddenly smiled gloatingly. “Isn't this Lord Wu Mu? Aiya, why is your leg limping?”

Wu Mu was furious. If he hadn't followed this little fat girl, would he have been hit by a slingshot and broken a leg?

After that, he went to ask around. At that time, a servant and an old man guarding the door were playing with slingshots at the door. They were weak and it was purely a coincidence that they could hit him.

Although he was unlucky, Wu Mu could not help but blame the little girl.

“Just you wait. When I recover, I'll definitely investigate you thoroughly!”

He was a martial artist. His recovery was very fast!

Slurp!

The wheelchair flipped forward. Wu Mu was facing down and was pressed into the mud by the wheelchair.

“Yes, yes, yes, I'm sorry!” Zhou Xing turned around and realized that he had knocked over Wu Mu's wheelchair.

Wu Mu's other leg was dislocated…

Fifteen minutes later, Su Xiaoxiao left the academy in a good mood.

She weighed the silver ingots, which were still warm, in her hand.

She had reattached Wu Mu's dislocated leg. For five taels.

Su Xiaoxiao asked, “By the way, what were you talking to Changping about just now?”

Su Ergou blinked. “Nothing.”

In the room, Young Master Xiang was painting in front of the window.

Changping bowed in and bowed respectfully. “Young Master, it's done.”

Young Master Xiang raised his brush and outlined a winding mountain range on the drawing paper. “What did you say?”

Changping said, “I told him that I saw him and Miss Su the last time, but I didn't report it to you in time. If I had reported it, you would definitely have sent someone to take care of them so that he wouldn't be bullied by the young master. Because of this, you were angry with me. I asked him to remember to put in a good word for me in front of you the next time he sees you. Then, I gave him the box of white jade ointment from the Imperial Hospital in the capital. I asked him to keep it a secret for me. He's not even allowed to tell his sister.”

Young Master Xiang asked, “He didn't suspect anything?”

Changping smiled and said, ” I told him it's not the first time I've offended his sister. If his sister finds out that I bribed him, she will definitely stop me! This reason is very sufficient. He won't suspect anything!”

Young Master Xiang said, “You did very well. Now, let's see if he will use this bottle of ointment.”

Changping said, “He definitely will! Only that person in their family is injured, and I heard that he has been injured for more than a month. This medicine is priceless. Even that person can't help but use it.”

“Brother-in-law!”

After Su Ergou arrived home, the first thing he did was look for Wei Ting.

“Why are you making so much noise?” Father Su was woken up by him and walked out of the house unhappily.

“Dad, where's Brother-in-law?” Su Ergou asked.

“Feeding the horses.” Father Su remembered seeing his son-in-law feeding the horses in the backyard before he slept.

Su Ergou went to the backyard. “He's not there.”

His brother-in-law and the pony were not around, nor were the three little ones.

“You wanted to see me?”

Wei Ting came out of the east room.

“Brother-in-law! So you're in the room!” Su Ergou walked forward with bright eyes and looked around. He said mysteriously, “Come, let's talk in the house!”

The two of them entered the room.

“What's wrong?” Wei Ting asked.

Su Ergou sneakily took out a bottle of ointment from his pouch and said, “Brother-in-law, look! High-grade ointment! From the capital! It's said to be for the emperor's use! The effect is especially good!”

Chapter 189

Su Ergou felt that Changping must be bragging when he said that it was used by the emperor. However, Young Master Xiang's status was precious. As his sidekick, what Changping gave him must be something good.

Su Ergou's logic was right.

However, Wei Ting recognized this medicine at a glance. It was indeed for the palace.

“Who gave it to you?” he asked.

“I can't say.” Su Ergou blinked. “But I can gesture!”

He gestured wildly.

“Do you understand, Brother-in-law?”

Wei Ting was speechless.

In the backyard, Su Xiaoxiao shouted, “Ergou! Come and help!”

“Coming, Sister!” Su Ergou quickly left.

Wei Ting returned to the east room with the medicine.

A certain man in black flashed in like a ghost.

He looked dispirited as if he had been beaten up many times.

Wei Ting frowned. “What's wrong with you now?”

He touched his butt.

Wei Ting said, “Is your butt… impure again?”

Yuchi Xiu said with a wooden expression, “No, it's not my butt this time. It's my chest. Don't ask. I don't want to say.”

Wei Ting didn't want to ask anyway.

Wei Ting said, “Then why are you touching your butt?”

Yuchi Xiu said aggrievedly, “My butt is on fire. It hurts.”

Wei Ting looked at him speechlessly. Did it really hurt because of the heat…

Yuchi Xiu saw the medicine bottle in Wei Ting's hand. “Sir, what's that in your hand?”

Wei Ting threw the medicine bottle at him.

He caught it and took a look. “Yo, do you use the white jade ointment from the palace? If not I'll use it to wipe my butt.”

His butt really hurt!

It was all that woman's fault!

She was really… really too much!

Yuchi Xiu was so angry that he pulled out the cork!

Just like pulling out that woman's head!

Wait.

The smell was wrong.

“Sir!” He sniffed the white jade ointment. “Where did you get it?”

Wei Ting said, “Ergou gave it to me.”

Yuchi Xiu gasped. “He actually wanted to poison you! No, he's just a brat. How can he know how to poison?”

Wei Ting's eyes were cold. Yuchi Xiu was good at giving people nicknames.

Yuchi Xiu's expression turned solemn. “I know! It must be that girl! She wants to kill Lord!”

Wei Ting said coldly, “If you don't use your brain, should I cut it off for you?”

Yuchi Xiu took a step back and held his head. “Sir, it's not good to be too cruel.”

Wei Ting snorted.

Yuchi Xiu couldn't figure out how he had angered his lord. His lord's temper had been getting harder and harder to figure out recently.

Wei Ting looked at the white jade ointment on the table and his expression turned cold.

“Sister, I have something to tell you,” Su Ergou said.

“What is it?” Su Xiaoxiao continued to chop firewood.

As Su Ergou tied up the firewood his sister had prepared, he said, “Well, Changping said that Young Master Xiang coughed a little at night and asked me if I had any cough snacks.”

Su Xiaoxiao broke a piece of wood. “Can't he just take medicine?”

Su Ergou said, “Changping said that Young Master Xiang has taken medicine for so long that he wants to vomit when he smells the medicine.”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “You agreed?”

Su Ergou muttered, “I said I'll ask on his behalf.”

Su Xiaoxiao put down her machete. “Alright, I'll stew some loquat snow pear cream.”

Wei Ting and Yuchi Xiu naturally heard the siblings' conversation clearly.

Yuchi Xiu said belatedly, “It's that cunning Xiao Zhonghua!”

Wei Ting tapped his fingertips on the table.

When his lord did this, he was scheming.

Yuchi Xiu was so excited that his eyes glowed green. “Sir! Are you going to assassinate Xiao Zhonghua?! Sir! I can do it!”

Wei Ting said, “Can't you think of anything else other than killing?”

Yuchi Xiu spread his hands. “But I'm an assassin.”

After a pause, his eyes lit up again.

“I understand! Poison Xiao Zhonghua! Into that girl's snow pear cream! Give Xiao Zhonghua a taste of his own medicine!”

It was almost evening, and the sun was setting.

Su Yuan came out of Physician Fu's house and got into the carriage regretfully.

The coachman asked, “Master, does Old Madam Fu not agree?”

Su Yuan pinched his aching eyebrows helplessly. “Forget it, let's go back.”

The coachman said, “Master, you don't look too good. I'll find an inn for you first. Settle down and return to the prefecture city tomorrow morning.”

“No,” Su Yuan said. “Let's go back overnight.”

“Yes.” The coachman waved the horsewhip and slowly drove the carriage out of Spring Willow Lane.

“Zhang Dao, you bastard! You still have the guts to come back! Damn it! I've blocked your house for a month! Let's see where you can run this time!”

Su Yuan had not slept for a few nights. Coupled with the stuffiness in the carriage, he could not breathe. However, just as he pushed the window open, he saw someone fighting in the alley.

“You bastard! I'll beat you to death!”

Su Yuan was about to step forward to stop him when he heard the person say, “You found someone to bully my daughter! I think you're tired of living! If you have the guts, come at me! I respected you as a man! Are you still a f*cking man to have such bad ideas about my daughter!”

“Master?” the coachman asked him.

“Forget it, let's go.” Su Yuan lowered the car window and brushed past Su Cheng, who was beating Zhang Dao up.

Recently, the Su family had not been lucky. First, there was the matter of framing the Su family. Although Su Erlang took the blame, the family's reputation had been affected.

In addition, Su Dalang had been extorted for another 500 taels and they lost another 100 taels framing Su Xiaoxiao. The Su family had lost all their money.

Su Can said, “Dad, Erlang and I went to the government office to ask. Yuniang has divorced Zheng Yuanbo, and her household registration has returned to our Su family. If she wants to establish her own family, she has to move her household registration out! Without our Su family's agreement, she can't move!”

In other words, they could take the opportunity to extort Su Yuniang.

In the past, they did not know that Su Yuniang was so rich. Every time Su Yuniang took ten or twenty taels from her in-laws, they felt that it was not easy.

Now that he thought about it, Su Yuniang was dismissing a beggar with that money!

“Will Sister give it to us?” Su Erlang asked.

Su Can snorted. “She's from the Su family, and what's hers belongs to the Su family! She has to give it to me!”

“Give what?”

Su Yuniang slowly walked in.

Su Can was stunned.

He looked at Su Yuniang and then behind her. Fatty Su, who was usually holding a butcher knife beside her, was nowhere to be seen. His confidence rose. “Heh, you still have the cheek to come back!”

Su Yuniang sneered. “Didn't Dad say that? I'm from the Su family. Of course, I can come back.”

Su Can did not expect Su Yuniang to hear his words just now. This was awkward.

He coughed lightly and asked fiercely, “Aren't you doing very well in the Su family? Why did you come back?”

Su Yuniang said, “I came back to get the household register. If I want to establish my own household, I need the Su family's signature to allow me to transfer the household register.”

She had openly placed her weakness on the surface, catching the Su family off guard.

Su Yuniang said, “Let's not beat around the bush. We're all family. I don't want to make things too ugly. If you want money, I can give it to you. Just don't go overboard. Mother and Third Brother are still at home. Even if it's for them, I won't be stingy with those worldly possessions. However, I have a condition!”

Old Master Su said, “Tell me.”

Su Yuniang said seriously, “I want to know where the jade pendant that our family sold 30 years ago came from!”

Chapter 190

Su Can said without thinking, “Of course, the ancestral jade pendant was left behind by our ancestors!”

“Is that so, Grandpa?” Su Yuniang looked at Old Master Su.

Old Master Su's expression changed. Although he tried his best to remain calm, Su Yuniang was a smart person.

She immediately saw the hidden emotions in Old Master Su's eyes.

There was indeed something fishy!

Su Yuniang smiled. “If Grandpa refuses to tell me, I won't give you this money. I have other ways to get the household register, but it's a little troublesome.”

Old Master Su said in a low voice, “Erlang, go pick some vegetables with your father.”

Su Erlang was a rare smart person in the Su family. His grandfather's reaction was clearly wrong, but he did not say anything. He silently carried two baskets and pulled Su Can out.

Su Dalang went to chop firewood.

A few women at home were cooking in the kitchen.

Only Old Master Su and Su Yuniang were left in the central room.

Old Master Su said in a low voice, “Su Yuniang, what did you find?”

Su Yuniang asked, “Grandpa, what do you think I found?”

Old Master Su slammed the table. “I'm asking you a question!”

Su Yuniang said seriously, “I'm asking Grandpa too!”

This granddaughter had never been so impudent in the past. After living with the Su family for a while, she was becoming more and more like Su Daya.

Old Master Su took a deep breath and compromised in his confrontation with Su Yuniang. “That jade pendant was picked up by your great-grandfather. I was there too.”

Although she had long guessed it, Su Yuniang still felt a sense of mockery when she heard Old Master Su admit it himself.

She asked, “Then, may I ask where Grandpa picked it up?”

“The town.”

“Why did you only pick up half?”

When Old Master Su heard this, his expression changed slightly.

Su Yuniang sneered and said, “Those are pairs of pendants. Great-grandpa picked up one of them, and the other is in Daya's father's hand. Grandpa, can you explain to me what's going on?”

Old Master Su clenched his fists.

Su Yuniang said calmly, “Grandpa, since I can investigate to this extent, as long as I'm willing to spend more money, it won't be difficult to find out. However, Grandpa, are you sure you want me to continue investigating on my own? The more I investigate, the more people will be alarmed. Perhaps I won't be able to hide some things.”

Old Master Su's eyes darkened. “Are you threatening me?”

Su Yuniang was not intimidated by his aura. “It's all because Grandpa taught me well.”

That night, Old Master Su threatened her like this.

Old Master Su snorted. “How would I know? Perhaps someone picked up the other piece!”

Su Yuniang stood up and left.

Old Master Su said coldly, “Su Yuniang, what are you doing?”

Su Yuniang said, “Since Grandpa is unwilling to be honest, I have nothing else to say! I won't give you the silver! I'll think of a way to get the household register myself! I'll investigate the news myself!”

With that, she left without looking back.

Wasn't this move typical of Fatty Su?

Look at how badly Fatty Su had influenced her!

Seeing that Su Yuniang had taken a step out of the threshold, Old Master Su gritted his teeth. “It's Su Cheng's!”

Su Yuniang continued walking without looking back.

Old Master Su gritted his teeth. “He dropped a jade pendant. Your great-grandfather picked it up and didn't return it to him!”

Su Yuniang stopped in her tracks. “Did he drop it, or did you snatch it?”

Old Master Su said coldly, “If we wanted to snatch it, we could have snatched a pair of jade pendants.”

That was true.

Su Yuniang asked, “Does Grandpa know anything else?”

Old Master Su said, “What do you mean?”

Su Yuniang said, “Where did Daya's father come from? Who else was with him? How did you get the jade pendant?”

Old Master Su said, “He was alone. His clothes were in tatters. He probably hadn't eaten for a few days. He followed behind a few refugees not far away and picked up some grass roots and tree bark that they had left behind. Sometimes, when those refugees were annoyed, they would beat him up to vent their anger. That's all I know. I thought that a child like him would either starve to death or be captured to be eaten… When I saw him again, he had already grown up and moved to our village.”

“I'm telling the truth. If you don't believe me, there's nothing I can do. You have to ask how Su Cheng got his jade pendant. In the year of the disaster, there are dead people everywhere. Who knows which corpse he took it from?”

Su Yuniang threw a stack of banknotes on the table. “See you at the county office tomorrow morning.”

After Su Yuniang left, Old Master Su closed his eyes tiredly.

He did not tell Su Yuniang the entire truth.

The child's situation back then was much worse than he had described.

The injuries on his body were large and small, and he was covered in blood as if he had just escaped death.

His face was dirty but his eyes were unbelievably beautiful.

His clothes were ragged and the material was high-grade silk, but no one thought that it was his. They only thought that he had picked up someone's clothes and put them on.

The child ate at first like a child from a well-bred family, but if he ate slowly, the food would be snatched away…

When he first picked up that jade pendant, he and his father had the intention of returning it to him.

He had followed the child for a few days.

He had personally seen the child follow behind a group of refugees and learn to dig grassroots, peel tree bark, and drink dirty water…

He was so weak but tenacious.

The last time he saw the child, the child was half beaten to death because of half a rotten steamed bun. At this moment, the jade pendant embedded in his clothes fell out.

The refugees went to snatch it.

The child was only six years old, but he actually grabbed a rock and threw it at that person's head!

Some people were still wolf cubs even if they wandered into a flock of sheep.

In the alley, Su Cheng beat Zhang Dao up fiercely. His arms and legs were all broken. Last time, he was too gentle. This bastard did not learn his lesson and dared to bribe Wang Mazi to frame his fat daughter.

This time, Zhang Dao was beaten until he did not have much life in him.

Su Cheng left the alley in high spirits. He carried the butcher knife and swaggered back to the village.

On the other side, Su Yuan's carriage drove onto the official road.

Su Yuan looked worse and worse. His chest seemed to be blocked by a ball of cotton. He held the wall of the car and panted heavily.

The coachman heard an unusual commotion and hurriedly asked, “Master, what's wrong?”

Su Yuan wanted to speak, but his throat seemed to be blocked. He could not make a sound.

The coachman said, “Master?”

THUD!

Su Yuan fell.

The coachman's expression changed. “Master?!”

Su Cheng did not take the village road today. He went to visit the Cheng family and returned on the official road.

From afar, he saw a carriage parked on the road. It looked inconspicuous but from his many years of robbery… Ahem, his experience in the martial world, this was most likely a low-key rich businessman.

Nine of the ten merchants were traitors.

He rubbed his hands. Should he… do something?

Sigh, forget it. He had promised his daughter that he would turn over a new leaf and start from scratch.

Su Cheng smacked his lips and resisted the urge to rob. He walked past the carriage.

Three seconds later, he jumped into the carriage. “Robbery! Hand over the silver!”

Chapter 191

After Su Yuniang returned to the Su family, she found Su Xiaoxiao and told her what she had found out from the Su family.

“The jade pendant belongs to your father. Your father was alone at that time and didn't have any other relatives. A piece of your father's jade pendant accidentally fell and was picked up by my grandfather and great-grandfather. As for how your father obtained the two jade pendants, my grandfather said that it was very chaotic in the middle of the year and there were dead people everywhere. Perhaps your father took it from some dead person.”

Countless people died in the disaster year. Some starved to death, and some died of illness. Some poor people could not live anymore and occupied mountains as bandits, robbing rich families who passed by. This situation was not rare.

Not all the bones on the road belonged to the poor, and many rich families had been killed.

It was indeed possible that Su Cheng had taken it off a corpse.

“If your father picked up the two jade pendants from elsewhere and my great-grandfather picked them up, then…”

Su Xiaoxiao finished her sentence for her. “Even if your great-grandfather did something wrong, it's not my father's after all. I can pick it up even if you picked it up earlier. Besides, your great-grandfather sold it after picking it up and helped a village of refugees. It's much better than my father not taking it out. Thinking about it this way, the villagers will still stand on the Su family's side.”

Su Yuniang sighed and nodded regretfully.

She thought that she could expose the Su family's hypocrisy this time, but who knew that she still missed?

Su Xiaoxiao was deep in thought. She felt that Old Su was hiding something.

The two of them were talking in the central room when the three little ones came over.

Dahu raised his hand and pointed outside the door. “Mother, Grandpa is back.”

Su Xiaoxiao nodded. “Okay, I understand.”

The three of them blinked at her.

Su Xiaoxiao asked strangely, “Something happened?”

The three of them nodded.

Su Xiaoxiao's first reaction was that her father was in trouble. She grabbed her knife and rushed out…

Just as she reached the door, she saw her father jump down from a big carriage valiantly.

Su Xiaoxiao went forward and said, “Dad, are you alright?”

Su Cheng said, “I'm fine! Where are you planning to go with the knife?”

“I thought something had happened to you. I was going to look for you,” Su Xiaoxiao said and looked at the big carriage behind him. This carriage looked inconspicuous, but it was much better than the one she had hired at the car dealership.

“Dad, where did this carriage come from?”

Su Cheng said without changing his expression, “I picked it up!”

Su Xiaoxiao looked at him skeptically. “Are you sure?”

Su Cheng cleared his throat. “Of course I…”

“Who's there!”

Su Xiaoxiao heard the breathing in the car and raised her knife warily to lift the curtain.

A dying man was lying on the bench in the carriage.

Su Xiaoxiao looked at her father.

Father Su grinned. “Pick one up and get one free!”

Su Xiaoxiao was speechless.

In the carriage, Su Yuan's situation was very bad.

Su Xiaoxiao didn't understand why her father liked to pick up people to bring home.

What's more, he picked up all the patients!

What? Was he good-looking?

Needless to say, he was really good-looking.

He was a few years older than his father and had clear eyebrows. He looked elegant and calm as if he had mellowed over time. The style of the high-grade clothes was very simple. The bones of his fingers were slender and well-defined. Even though his consciousness was blurry, one could feel a noble aura from him.

Su Xiaoxiao vaguely felt that this person was a little familiar.

Life was more important.

She took his pulse and checked his breathing.

It was caused by an allergic reaction. His throat had edema and breathing was difficult, and he had almost fallen into shock. He had to be moved away from the allergen immediately.

Su Xiaoxiao moved him out of the carriage.

“Let me do it, let me do it!”

Father Su took the patient and moved him to the central room.

Su Xiaoxiao dragged two stools and combined them. Seeing this, Su Yuniang came over to help.

“Open all the doors and take off his coat!”

After Su Xiaoxiao finished instructing, she entered the east room to find her first aid kit.

Last time, she took a lot of medicine from the pharmacy, but unfortunately, there was no treatment for acute allergies…

She rummaged through the first aid kit, but none of them were right.

She could also draft a prescription for Chinese medicine to resist sensitivity, but his situation was too critical. There was no time to go to town to get the medicine.

Suddenly, a black bottle fell out.

It was the third-rate product, the Bezoar Detox Pill, that she had put aside.

Because it was too useless, she did not have the chance to use it at all. She had almost forgotten that there was such a bottle of medicine.

She did not have any other medicine that was more suitable for the illness. Although resisting sensitivity and clearing heat and detoxifying poison were completely different, she would try her best at this juncture. In any case, there were no side effects after eating the Bezoar Detox Pill.

She poured out three pills and mixed them with half a bowl of warm water.

This medicine actually melted after entering the water. It was yellow and orange.

She walked out with the medicine.

Su Yuniang grabbed her wrist. “What are you holding?”

“Medicine.”

“Are you sure?” Su Yuniang said. “I saw you hesitate for a long time at the bottle just now.”

This little rich woman was too observant.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “It's indeed medicine, but no one has drunk it. I don't know what effect it has.”

Su Yuniang gasped. “How dare you let someone drink it when you don't know! What if he dies from drinking it? It's obvious that this person's background is not simple. If he dies on his own, it's none of your business. If you kill him with the medicine, it'll be your responsibility!”

Su Xiaoxiao understood that Su Yuniang was doing this for her own good. “But if we ignore him, he will really die.”

An allergic reaction was a small illness. With his severe allergic reaction, there was throat edema and respiratory obstruction. His life was in danger.

Su Yuniang said seriously, “It's better for him to die himself than for you to kill him!”

Su Yuniang, was not a kind person. She was selfish. She did not care about the lives of others. She only wanted the people she cared about to be fine!

Su Xiaoxiao smiled. “Don't worry, this isn't poison. At most, it can't cure his condition.”

Su Yuniang said, “Didn't you say that he would die if he couldn't be treated? As long as he consumed what you gave him before he died, the responsibility could be pushed to you!”

Su Xiaoxiao looked into her eyes. “Yuniang, believe in me this once.”

Su Yuniang looked at her in a daze and frowned. In the end, she let go.

Su Yuan did not go into complete shock. He still had a trace of consciousness. It was this trace of consciousness that allowed him to retain some ability to swallow.

Su Xiaoxiao supported him and fed him half a bowl of orange medicine.

Su Yuniang's heart was in her throat.

A few breaths later, a miracle happened.

Su Yuan's breathing seemed to have cleared instantly, and he caught his breath.

The dark color between his eyebrows and lips faded, and his expression returned to normal.

Su Xiaoxiao stuck the disposable tongue-pressing board into his mouth and looked at his throat.

The laryngeal edema was also disappearing.

Su Xiaoxiao raised her eyebrows. “Oh, it's really effective.”

She finally realized that the more inconspicuous the medicine, the more advanced the black technology!

Who would have thought that a small bottle of Bezoar Detox Pills could treat a serious allergy?

Su Yuan completely recovered 15 minutes later.

The first thing he saw was three round heads.

The three little ones blinked at him.

He was slightly stunned.

“My stool,” Dahu said, pointing under him.

After Dahu returned from the prefecture city, he was more articulate.

“My pillow,” Erhu said, pointing under his head.

Xiaohu scratched his head. “My, my, my house!”

Su Yuan was stunned by the triplets' actions.

Wait, weren't they the triplets he had seen in the nunnery?

Su Xiaoxiao walked over with a dustpan of peeled peanuts.

“Mother!”

The three little ones decisively gave up on observing the patient for a long time and pounced at Su Xiaoxiao.

Su Yuan's gaze followed the three little ones and saw the little fat girl he had met once in the nunnery.

“It's you?”

He exclaimed in surprise.

Perhaps because of the edema in his throat, his voice was a little hoarse.

“Oh?” Su Xiaoxiao tilted her head and sized him up.

Soon, she recognized him.

It was the devotee who had visited Mistress Hui Jue. His name seemed to be Su Yuan.

She knew it. He did look a little familiar as if she had seen him somewhere before.

“Miss Su?” Su Yuan called her tentatively.

Grandmaster Hui Jue introduced Su Ji to business. She said that it was a pair of siblings with the surname Su. The sister was chubby, round, and cute, and the brother was a little dark.

He was surprised to see her here.

“Master…” Su Xiaoxiao thought for a moment.” Su? ”

There was nothing wrong with calling him that, right?

Su Yuan smiled, tacitly agreeing with this form of address.

Su Xiaoxiao felt that this man had a different kind of affinity when he smiled, making her want to get close to him.

But that was strange, wasn't it?

She was not someone who liked to be close to others.

Su Yuan looked at Su Xiaoxiao, then at the three little ones hugging her thigh. Countless doubts flashed across his mind.

“This is my house,” Su Xiaoxiao said. “They're my sons, Dahu, Erhu, and Xiaohu.”

Su Yuan was stunned.

“Master! Master!”

The coachman scrambled in. “Why are you in the village? I went to the river to get water for you, but when I came back, the carriage was gone! I was scared out of my soul!”

At the mention of this, Su Yuan was also puzzled. He clearly had an accident on the official road. Why was he lying at Miss Su's house the moment he woke up?

He asked, “Miss Su, were you the one who saved me?”

Su Xiaoxiao was about to speak when Su Cheng swaggered in with the butcher knife.

“Daughter! I did a big job today! Remember to cook meat tonight! Eh? Where's the person I dragged back?”

Su Xiaoxiao couldn't stand it anymore. The little vest that she had painstakingly mended for him was torn apart by him.

Su Cheng looked at Su Yuan, who had already sat up. Su Yuan also looked at the roguish Su Cheng.

Su Yuan was stunned.

Chapter 192

“Eh? Are you awake? Why are you looking at me like that?” Su Cheng glared at Su Yuan fiercely.

Su Yuan's eyes flickered.

They were too similar.

However, it did not seem like it the moment he opened his mouth.

It was said that nephews looked like uncles because the siblings were from the same mother and had common physical characteristics.

When he saw Qin Che, Su Yuan felt that he was indeed a little similar to his father. Seeing the person in front of him, Su Yuan finally understood what a real resemblance was.

This pair of eyebrows was exactly the same as those of his aunt and father.

Su Yuan muttered, “You look like a person.”

Su Cheng raised the butcher knife. “Who are you scolding? I'm a human, to begin with! What do you mean by saying I look like a person!”

Su Yuan was speechless.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Dad, he's my customer in the prefecture city. The spring water Ergou brought back for you belongs to his family.”

F*ck, it wasn't easy for him to rob someone, but he had done it to a customer…

Su Cheng's eyes darted around. He calmly placed the butcher knife on the ground and kicked it under the long stool.

The coachman understood. “It's you! You kidnapped my master! You… you're a bandit!”

Su Yuan said in a low voice, “Zheng Guang, don't be rude!”

The coachman pointed at Su Cheng and said, “But Master, didn't you hear what he said? They clearly…”

Su Yuan's expression was cold, and the coachman obediently fell silent.

Su Xiaoxiao changed the topic in time. “Master Su, your situation just now was very dangerous. It's an allergy. Do you know that you have an allergy?”

Su Yuan nodded and smiled bitterly. “I'm allergic to catkins and some food. I'm usually very careful. I was negligent today and didn't notice the catkins flying in from the carriage. Miss Su, it's all thanks to you this time.”

“It's a small matter,” Su Xiaoxiao said generously.

Su Cheng took the opportunity to slip into the backyard.

Su Yuan turned around and looked at him before asking Su Xiaoxiao with a smile, “Miss Su, are you from this village?”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “My parents were originally from Willow Village, and they moved here later.”

Su Yuan smiled. “Ah, I see.” Su Yuan smiled and his gaze landed on Su Xiaoxiao's round face. “Su…”

He wanted to call her Miss Su, but he suddenly realized that she was already a mother.

However, he really could not call her Madam Su.

Also, what was her husband's surname?

Wasn't it too abrupt for him to ask about this?

“What are you thinking about?” Su Xiaoxiao asked. “Are you still feeling unwell?”

Su Yuan came back to his senses. “No, I feel much better.”

These were not pleasantries. They were the truth.

He knew his own body very well. When he was young, he did not know that he was allergic and almost could not be saved a few times.

It was Imperial Physician Fu who accurately identified his illness and told him that there was no cure for this illness. It was better to guard against it than to treat it.

However, there were inevitable mistakes. In his impression, he had never recovered so quickly.

Su Yuan asked, “Miss Su, do you know medicine?”

Su Ergou walked out with the pony. “That's right. My sister is Physician Fu's disciple!”

Su Yuan said, “Which Physician Fu?”

Su Ergou said, “The one in Spring Willow Lane!”

Su Yuan fell into deep thought.

No wonder Mistress Hui Jue knew a little girl from town. It would make sense if the little girl was a disciple of the Fu family.

If Physician Fu's disciple was already so powerful, wouldn't Physician Fu's medical skills be even more exquisite?

Old Madam Fu said that her son could not treat his father's chronic illness. She was probably… unwilling to return to the capital, right?

No, he had to go to Spring Willow Lane again.

He said to Su Xiaoxiao, “It's getting late. I won't disturb Miss Su.”

“Wait!” Father Su stuck his head in from the backyard. “… consultation fee.”

With that, he retracted her head.

How strange. This man looked weak. He could crush him with one finger, but why did he seem a little afraid of him?

Not that he was afraid…

There was a strange feeling in his heart that Su Cheng could not describe.

This was probably one robbery in which he was least confident.

Su Yuan smiled and said, “It's my duty. Look at me, I forgot such an important thing. Zheng Guang, go to the carriage to get the silver.”

Su Cheng's ears pricked up. Was there silver? He had searched for a long time but could not find it!

He sat on the small stool and wanted to peek through the backrest, but he accidentally met Su Yuan's gaze.

He coughed lightly and silently straightened his body.

Zheng Guang took out a money bag from the secret compartment of the carriage. “Master, here.”

Su Yuan said, “For Miss Su.”

Zheng Guang was stunned. Give it all?

Su Yuan said amiably, “Miss Su, please accept it.”

The lives of vassals were indeed quite valuable.

That medicine was indeed quite rare. She only had one bottle. Every pill consumed was one less pill.

Thinking of this, Su Xiaoxiao accepted the silver with a clear conscience.

Thinking of something, Su Xiaoxiao returned to the house and counted nine small pills. She packed them in a small porcelain bottle, took them out, and handed them to him.

“If this level of allergy appears again in the future, eat three pills. There are three doses inside.”

Su Yuan said, “Thank you.”

Zheng Guang wanted to take it, but Su Yuan personally took it.

Zheng Guang was a little surprised.

Although his Heir-Son Lord had a good temper, he was from a noble family after all. With his status, it was rare for him to interact with others like this.

Perhaps it was because of Grandmaster Hui Jue and Old Madam Fu.

“Master, should I prepare the carriage?” Zheng Guang asked.

“Okay.” Su Yuan nodded.

Su Cheng was like a child, stealing glances from time to time. Seeing Zheng Guang take away the carriage he had painstakingly robbed, he was a little depressed.

Su Yuan walked over and bade him farewell. With an elegant demeanour, he thanked him kindly.

Su Cheng curled his lips and ignored him.

Su Yuan was really leaving.

Su Xiaoxiao sent him into the carriage.

Su Yuan sat in the carriage that Zheng Guang had cleaned up. “Miss Su, we'll meet again if fate allows.”

Su Xiaoxiao nodded. “Take care, Old Master Su.”

Zheng Guang waved the horsewhip and the carriage slowly left.

Su Cheng looked out again.

Su Ergou was puzzled. “Dad, what are you looking at?”

Su Cheng glared at him. “Why do you care what I'm looking at!”

The man was gone.

Hmph, so be it.

He did not care!

Su Cheng raised the axe and chopped the firewood, one after another as if he was chopping with a knife. Su Ergou was dumbfounded.

What was wrong with his father?

When the carriage arrived at the village entrance, Zheng Guang saw a little fellow standing under a big tree and looking at them.

“Master, he's Miss Su's son.”

“Stop the carriage,” Su Yuan instructed.

Zheng Guang stopped the carriage by the tree.

Su Yuan lifted the curtain and looked at the little guy in front of him amiably. “Are you playing here alone? Where did your brothers go?”

Erhu said, “They went to walk the foal.”

Su Yuan smiled. “Why didn't you go?”

Erhu said childishly, “I didn't want to go.”

Su Yuan found a box of snacks in the carriage and walked down to give it to him.

Erhu shook his head. “Mother said that I can't eat them.”

Su Yuan was stunned for a moment before smiling. “Your mother taught you very well. You really can't eat what strangers give you.”

Erhu placed his small hands behind his back and tilted his head to look at him cutely. “Are you a lord from the city?”

Su Yuan smiled and said, “I guess.”

Erhu continued, “Are you very rich?”

What kind of question was this?

Erhu's eyes darted around. “Your glabella is black. You have bad luck.”

Su Yuan was speechless.

Erhu bluffed seriously, “Do you want to change your luck?”

Su Yuan was stunned.

Erhu stretched out his small hand. “It's an ancestral jade. Your luck can be changed by touching it. Ten copper coins at a time. Seeing that you look familiar, I'll charge you five. No bargaining!”

Su Yuan was speechless.

Chapter 193

At Little Su's house, Su Yuan left in the carriage. Su Xiaoxiao went to the forest behind the kitchen to sharpen her knife.

The setting sun shone diagonally on the top of her head through the bamboo leaves.

When Su Yuniang walked over with her daughter, who had been in her arms for more than a month, she saw this back view.

This girl had really lost a lot of weight.

Su Yuniang sighed as she moved a small stool and sat down beside Su Xiaoxiao.

“Are you a blind cat who bumped into a dead rat?”

Su Xiaoxiao asked, “What?”

Su Yuniang said, “The medicine for that master. Why are you so bold? Aren't you afraid that something will happen to him… ”

Su Xiaoxiao continued to sharpen her knife. “He's fine!”

The little fellow in her arms nodded. Su Yuniang picked her up and patted her back gently, helping her burp out.

Su Yuniang said, “I'll go to the government office tomorrow and move the household register out.”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “How much did you give the Su family?”

If they did not give her some benefits, the Su family would never let Su Yuniang off.

Su Yuniang kissed her daughter's forehead and said, “200 taels.”

THUD!

Su Xiaoxiao chopped the chopping board!

Su Yuniang said calmly, “Don't worry, I'll make them spit it out.”

In the alley between Liu Shan's family and the Su family, Su Jinniang's face was pale as she clenched her fists bit by bit.

It was not until Su Xiaoxiao and Su Yuniang entered the kitchen and closed the back door that she quickly ran back to her house.

“Grandpa!”

Old Master Su was checking the accounts with Su Can in the central room. Su Can always got the accounts wrong. He was inferior to Su Erlang.

Old Master Su glanced at the flustered Su Jinniang and asked, “Where did you go again? Who asked you to go out all day? You're about to get married. Don't go out so much in the future!”

Su Jinniang lowered her eyes. “I… just went to see Sister. I heard her and Fatty Su say… that they want our money back.”

Su Can stood up. “What?”

Su Jinniang whispered, “Sister said that if our family is heartless, we shouldn't blame her for being unjust. After she goes to the county office tomorrow to move the household registration, she will tell the villagers about the jade pendant… Back then… what you and Great-Grandpa sold… was the jade pendant snatched from the Su family. There's also the jade pendant on Fatty Su as evidence. It was originally a pair.”

Su Can said angrily, “When did we snatch their family's jade pendant? That was passed down from our Su family's ancestors! Shameless bitch! Watch how I deal with her!”

He rolled up his sleeves and turned to walk out, only to be surprised that no one followed him.

The entire central room was silent. Other than him, Old Master Su, Su Erlang, and Su Jinniang were silent.

Old Master Su knew the truth, while Su Erlang and Su Jinniang guessed the truth back then.

Looking at Old Master Su's reaction, Su Jinniang knew that she had guessed correctly.

How could this be?

She was clearly better than Fatty Su in everything, but since when did Fatty Su step on her head time and time again? Now, even the jade pendant had become hers!

This was unfair!

“Dad?” Su Can looked at Old Master Su in a daze. “Could, could it be…”

“What happened?”

Su Dalang came back with water. Seeing that the atmosphere at home was not right, he quickly put down the bucket.

Old Master Su said, “Jinniang, go back to the house first.”

When the men of the Su family discussed matters, they usually did not allow women to be present.

“Yes, Grandpa.” Su Jinniang returned to her room gloomily.

She had entered, but her ear was pressed against the door to eavesdrop.

Su Can swallowed and asked Old Master Su, “Dad, what Jinniang said is…”

Su Erlang frowned and said, “Dad, now is not the time to fuss about this. The most important thing now is not to let them go to the village to bite us! Grandpa, we can't sit still!”

Su Can shut up.

His heart was in turmoil. Who would have thought that their family's jade pendant actually belonged to Su Cheng? Didn't that mean that the favor the villagers owed was also Su Cheng's?

Old Master Su looked at Su Erlang. “What ideas do you have?”

Su Erlang clenched his fists. “Make the first move!”

Su Can didn't agree. “This method… has been used once…”

And they failed.

Su Erlang said, “The reason why we failed last time was that we didn't know that the bag had been discovered by Su Daya and that Yuniang had appeared. This time, the jade pendant is in Su Daya's hand. Let's see how they can clear their name!”

Su Can was timid. “Why don't we wait a little longer?”

Su Erlang said seriously, “Dad, what are you waiting for? When Eldest Sister moves the household register, will she still have any scruples about our Su family? Now that her household register is still in our hands, she's more or less a little afraid and doesn't dare to go overboard with us. Now is the most suitable time. After tomorrow, it'll be too late!”

Chapter 194

Although this was not the best solution, it was the only thing they could do now. Otherwise, with Su Yuniang's personality, she might really expose the Su family's scandal!

Old Master Su closed his eyes. “Let's listen to Erlang.”

Fifteen minutes later, Su Can brought his two sons to the Su family.

They had learned their lesson this time and did not incite the villagers to come over to watch the commotion.

“Su Yuniang, come out!”

Su Can jumped into the central room and said aggressively.

Su Yuniang had just coaxed her daughter to sleep when she heard Su Can's voice. She walked out with a cold expression.

“What are you doing here?”

Su Can shouted angrily, “You still have the cheek to say that! Hand over the jade pendant!”

Su Yuniang frowned. “What jade pendant?”

Su Can said, “Our family's ancestral jade pendant! You just returned home and entered your grandfather's room! After you left, the jade pendant in your grandfather's cabinet disappeared! Tell me quickly! Did you take it!”

Su Yuniang chuckled. “Didn't you sell the Su family's ancestral jade pendant long ago?”

She was talking about the Su family, not her family. Unfortunately, Su Can was busy acting and did not notice the details of her address.

Su Can placed his hands on his hips and said, “Hmph! They're a pair! After selling one piece, there's another!”

Su Yuniang said coldly, “You're really good at blaming others! The jade pendant clearly belongs to the Su family! You stole their jade pendant! You ate their blood buns, but in the end, you still have to bite them back!”

Su Can said, “We didn't say that it was the Su family! Could it be… you mean… you were instructed by the Su family? Yuniang, I understand that you want to establish your own household. Your grandfather and I have discussed it carefully and allowed you to move your household register, but don't be ungrateful.”

This was clearly threatening Su Yuniang.

Su Xiaoxiao walked over casually and looked at Su Can and the others in frustration. “Again? Are you really asking for a beating?”

In the past, Su Can would have been afraid.

However, the jade pendant was a big deal. He would rather be beaten up than retreat!

Su Can said sternly, “Yuniang, hand over the jade pendant! I'll pretend that this never happened. I'll go to the county office tomorrow and change your household register!”

He was giving her a stick and a carrot after.

Su Can did not have such a brain.

Su Xiaoxiao looked at Su Erlang.

In the entire Su family, other than Old Master Su and Su Yuniang, only Su Erlang had some brains. Unfortunately, he did not use it on the righteous path.

On the other side, Old Master Su looked for the village head.

The village head politely invited him into the central room. “Brother Su, please sit.” He asked his wife to pour a cup of hot tea for Old Master Su.

Old Master Su only sniffed and knew that the village head's family was not brewing cheap tea leaves.

“Good tea,” Old Master Su said.

The village head smiled. “Ah, Daya's father gave it to me.”

Grandmaster Hui Jue gave him a few jars. Su Cheng couldn't finish them, so he distributed some to Old Li and the village head.

Old Master Su fell silent.

The village head recalled that the Su family had a tense relationship with the Su family and thought to himself that he shouldn't have mentioned Su Cheng in front of Old Master Su.

He coughed lightly and said, “Did you come to look for me about Yuniang?”

He heard that Yuniang was going to establish her own household. Only with her maiden family's agreement could Su Yuniang move the household register out. As for relocating in the village, she needed the village head's fingerprint.

He had no objections to this.

Old Master Su looked like he wanted to say something but hesitated, looking very troubled.

Li Zheng said, “Brother Su, why don't you just say it?”

Old Master Su said, “I'm indeed here for Yuniang, but not for her household registration. I hope you can keep it a secret for Yuniang.”

The village head wondered, “What happened to Yuniang?”

Old Master Su sighed. “She stole the jade pendant at home.”

The village head was shocked. “What?”

Old Master Su said, “Everyone only knows one thing about our Su family selling the ancestral jade pendant back then. Actually, it was a pair of pendants. There were a total of two pieces. We sold one of them and my father passed the other to me. I plan to pass it to Su Can before I die of old age…”

“Ah…” The village head was indeed surprised.

Old Master Su looked at him. “You shouldn't reveal your wealth, right?”

The village head nodded in a daze. “Yes, yes.”

Old Master Su continued, “After selling the jade pendant, our family was robbed a few times.”

The village head let out a long sigh. “I know that.”

Old Master Su said, “Therefore, my father ordered me not to mention the other jade pendant to anyone to avoid trouble.”

“Of course.” The village head expressed his understanding.

An ordinary man's wealth was the cause of his troubles. At that time, it was a desolate year and bandits were everywhere. If they knew that the Su family still had a valuable jade pendant, they would have long robbed the family.

Old Master Su changed the topic. “Yuniang came home today and took the jade pendant away.”

“Yuniang?” The village head was shocked again.

Old Master Su shook his head and sighed. “I don't know why she did this either. She clearly doesn't lack money—maybe she hates me for almost sending her to the nunnery, so she thought of such a way to take revenge on me.”

The village head opened his mouth. “Ah, this…”

Old Master Su said earnestly, “No matter what, Yuniang is my biological granddaughter. I had no choice but to send her to the nunnery. Whether she hates me or doesn't acknowledge me as her grandfather from now on, I won't blame her. However, the jade pendant was passed down from my ancestors after all. I hope she can return the jade pendant.”

The village head looked at him. “Brother Su, you told me this…”

Old Master Su said helplessly, “She refuses to listen to me now. I beg you to help me persuade her. Also, don't let the villagers know. I'm afraid she won't be able to raise her head in front of the villagers in the future.”

Chapter 195

After suffering the loss last time, the Su family would not adopt a strategy that would allow everyone to know. After all, they had wronged Daya's family once. If they went to ask for things openly again, it was inevitable that people would think that they had made a mistake again.

Therefore, the Su family did the opposite this time.

If Daya's family could not take it anymore and publicized the matter, they were not afraid. After all, Old Master Su had already “informed” the village head, who would step forward to explain on their behalf that the jade pendant belonged to the Su family.

Old Master Su's prestige and credibility were still there, so it was not difficult to obtain the village head's trust.

Moreover, the village head was biased toward Daya's family, not Su Yuniang.

In order not to arouse the village head's resistance, Old Master Su did not say anything about Daya's family just now.

The two of them arrived at Daya's house.

Seeing that Su Can and Su Erlang were also there, the village head frowned.

Old Master Su took in the village head's expression. His expression turned cold as he said to Su Can and his son, “Why aren't the two of you staying at home obediently? Why are you here?”

Su Can turned around and said to Old Master Su, “Dad, Yuniang took the jade pendant. I'm asking Yuniang for it back!”

Old Master Su said sternly, “Didn't I tell you not to show off?”

Su Can shrank his neck. “We didn't show off. Just now, a villager came over and I chased him away.”

Old Master Su said coldly, “Get lost!”

“Dad…”

“Grandpa…”

“My words don't work, do they?”

The atmosphere was very awkward.

Su Xiaoxiao said in amusement, “Why do you have to do this, Old Master? One is playing the good cop and the other is playing the bad cop. Who are you acting for?”

Old Master Su said, “Su Daya, this is our family matter. It has nothing to do with you. It's our Su family's fault for misunderstanding you last time. If you still have complaints, I'll let you scold me for a while. However, please stay away from today's incident.”

His words were watertight. If Su Xiaoxiao didn't know what they were playing at, she would have believed them.

“Daughter, did someone come to cause trouble again?” Su Cheng walked over with his knife.

Seeing Su Cheng's butcher knife, Su Can's eyelids twitched, and he subconsciously wanted to run.

Su Cheng frowned impatiently. “Why is it you again? Are you trying to extort us?”

The village head tried to smooth things over. “Misunderstanding, it's all a misunderstanding. Su Cheng, put down the knife first. Let's talk nicely.”

Su Cheng asked Su Xiaoxiao, “Daughter, do you want to talk to them?”

Su Xiaoxiao thought for a moment and said, “Dad, I haven't told you about the jade pendant. The Su family pawned your jade pendant back then.”

Su Cheng's eyes widened. “What?”

Su Erlang scolded, “Fatty Su, don't talk nonsense! Do you have evidence?”

Su Yuniang stepped forward. “I can testify! Grandpa admitted it himself. The jade pendant was obtained from Uncle Su.”

Old Master Su's original words were: Su Cheng had dropped it and they had picked it up.

Su Yuniang did not say that.

Su Yuniang said, “Village head, don't be deceived by them. The jade pendant belongs to Uncle Su! They're thieves! None of the men in this family are good!”

These words were too treasonous. Fatty Su could curse them like this, and so could Su Cheng. However, as the daughter of the Su family, Su Yuniang would be struck by lightning if she scolded the elders in the family.

The Su family was furious.

They knew that Su Yuniang was rebellious, but they did not know that she would go all out for Daya's family.

Wasn't she afraid that they wouldn't allow her to move her household register?

Or was it that in her heart, the reputation of Daya's family was more important than the rest of her life?

She, Su Yuniang, was so selfish!

Otherwise, she would not have snatched Madam Zhao's midwife back then.

The village head's focus was not on Su Yuniang's disrespect. He asked in confusion, “Whose jade pendant is it?”

“Of course, it's our Su family's!” Su Can said. “Hurry up and return the other piece!”

Su Xiaoxiao smiled coldly. “Your Su family is really shameless.”

Su Cheng frowned and said, “How did my jade pendant become yours?”

“Dad, I'll tell you.”

Su Xiaoxiao stood up and looked at the Su family in amusement.

“If I were you, I wouldn't say that Yuniang took the jade pendant. I would say, ‘The jade pendant is a pair of pendants. There are two in total. Back then, our Su family sold one of the jade pendants, and the other was unfortunately lost. We searched for a long time but couldn't find it. I thought that we wouldn't be able to find it in our lifetime. It was only not long ago that Su Daya came to our house and accidentally left a jade pendant that I realized that it might be the heirloom that we lost back then. Today, Yuniang came back to discuss the relocation of the household register. I told her that it was fine, but you have to answer me honestly first: Where did the jade pendant from the Su family come from? Yuniang said that Su Cheng picked it up when he was young, and I was even more certain that I didn't make a mistake. That jade pendant is the one our Su family lost!”

Chapter 196

The three of them were stunned. Everyone seemed to have been enlightened.

Su Erlang clenched his fists.

Damn it, why didn't he think of it!

Su Can whispered, “Dad, her story seems to be better than ours…”

Old Master Su glared at Su Can.

Su Yuniang burst out laughing.

Su Can shouted with bravado, “What are you laughing at!”

Su Yuniang said gloatingly, “I'm laughing at how you guys are not as smart as Daya alone. Did you forget to bring your brains when you went out to harm others?”

“Su, Yu, Niang!” Su Can reached out to slap her.

Slap!

It was Su Cheng who did the slapping; Su Can did not manage to touch Su Yuniang at all. Instead, he fell to the ground and lost a front tooth.

“Dad!” Su Erlang hurriedly helped Su Can up. “Don't go too far!”

Su Cheng carried the butcher knife on his shoulder. “Is this too much? I haven't used the knife yet.”

Su Erlang gritted his teeth and said, “The entire village knows that the jade pendant belongs to our Su family! No matter how exciting your story is, no one will believe you!”

Old Master Su loosened his clenched fists bit by bit.

Erlang was right. No matter what the truth was, the Su family could not prove that the jade pendant was theirs.

As long as there was no way to prove it, the villagers would not believe it!

Su Yuniang frowned.

She did not publicize the matter immediately because she did not have enough evidence.

It was over. The Su family would blow things up first. The situation was disadvantageous to Daya and her family.

At this moment, a carriage stopped at the entrance of the Su family.

Su Yuan carried Little Fraudster Erhu down.

“Don't run out alone again, understand?”

“Are you really not going to touch it?” Erhu persevered in promoting his lucky stone.

Su Yuan was tickled by Erhu.

The two of them entered the house.

The atmosphere in the house was strange.

Erhu was already very familiar with the Su family. Every time this group of people came to the house, they would slander their mother. Erhu had long labeled them as bad people in his heart!

“Don't bully my mother!” Erhu ran over and stubbornly stood in front of Su Xiaoxiao.

Among the three little ones, Dahu was the boldest. Xiaohu was also fierce. Erhu was relatively mild, but when his brothers were not around, he took on the heavy responsibility of protecting his mother!

Su Yuan asked, “Miss Su, what happened?”

The three of them looked at Su Yuan.

Su Yuan was the legitimate son of a duke in the capital. No matter how ordinary his clothes were, they were still of the highest quality.

After the Su family became rich, they befriended many rich families. It was really enviable!

However, those who befriended the Su family were usually businessmen. Thinking of this, the Su family did not take Su Yuan seriously.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Oh, these people want to snatch my jade pendant.”

Su Erlang said coldly, “Who wanted to rob you? You were the ones who robbed our house! Hurry up and return the jade pendant!”

“What jade pendant?” Su Yuan asked.

Su Xiaoxiao took off the jade pendant around her neck. “There, this is it.”

Old Master Su's eyes flickered.

Su Erlang glanced at Old Master Su and said tacitly, “My family's jade pendant is really in your hands! Su Yuniang! You're really a traitor! You treated our Su family's heirloom as a gift! You're so eager to please the Su family! You're too disappointing!”

He was shameless to the extreme.

Su Yuniang was so angry that she almost snatched the knife from Su Cheng's hand.

“Did you just say that this jade pendant belongs to your family?”

It was Su Yuan who spoke.

Su Erlang, who was questioned by him, said seriously, “That's right! Master, although I don't know where you came from and what collaboration you want to discuss with the Su family, I advise you not to do business with such an evil person! Otherwise, you won't even have time to regret it!”

Su Yuan stared fixedly at the jade pendant. In Su Erlang's eyes, his reaction revealed shock and disappointment in the Su family.

Su Erlang struck while the iron was hot. “I'm afraid you don't know. This kind of jade pendant was originally a pair. 30 years ago, there was a disaster in Qingzhou. In order not to let everyone starve to death, my great-grandfather sold one of the jade pendants in exchange for the food of the entire village…”

Su Yuniang cursed. “Bullsh*t! Su Erlang, do you know about jade? Do you know how valuable this jade pendant is? Did the Su family have a general or a prime minister in its lineage? How can they obtain such an heirloom?”

Su Erlang pointed at Su Cheng and said, “If we can't, can he?”

Su Yuniang choked.

Su Yuan opened his mouth. “Can you… show me?”

Su Xiaoxiao gave him the jade pendant.

Su Yuan's hand trembled as he took the jade pendant.

Su Yuan looked at the three of them with a cold expression. “Where did you get the jade pendant you sold?”

Su Erlang said, “I told you it's inherited from my family!”

Su Yuan said in a low voice, “Nonsense!”

Su Erlang was shocked by Su Yuan's sudden aura.

He composed himself and asked strangely, “Who are you? You're an accomplice invited by the Su family, right? You don't have the right to speak here! Hurry up and return the jade pendant to us! Otherwise, I'll send you to the officials!”

“How dare you!” Zheng Guang walked in. “How dare you be rude to my Master? You're tired of living!”

Su Can was dumbfounded. “What?”

Zheng Guang said, “Listen carefully. My master is the heir of the North Garrison in the capital, Su Yuan!”

A duke from the capital?

Old Master Su's expression changed!

Chapter 197

Su Yuan rubbed the jade pendant in his hand and looked at Old Master Su without blinking.

At this moment, he no longer looked gentle and kind. He had the aura and edge of a superior. “Are you sure your family sold another jade pendant back then?”

Old Master Su was respected in the village, but in front of the vassals of the capital, he was just a lowly peasant.

Cold sweat broke out uncontrollably.

He didn't know how to answer.

Su Yuan said fiercely, “You know very well that the jade pendant doesn't belong to your family. Let me ask you one last time. Did you sell another jade pendant back then?”

Su Xiaoxiao was holding a left pendant. The Su family had sold a right pendant.

Back then, when Qin Che returned to the capital to acknowledge the Qin family, he had the right pendant.

Su Yuan said coldly, “Do you know that this is a gift from the emperor? Selling it privately is a capital crime!”

Old Master Su's legs went weak and he staggered!

Su Yuan said, “If you answer truthfully, I won't pursue the matter.”

Old Master Su confessed. “I… I did sell it! I sold it with my father…”

In front of a duke, Old Master Su could not resist at all.

Su Yuan continued, “Who did you sell it to?”

Old Master Su replied, “A businessman. I don't know who he is. My father went to talk to him. I waited outside. From that person's accent, he doesn't sound local. After that, we haven't seen him again, so if you insist on asking me who he is, I really can't answer.”

When had Old Master Su ever been so humble?

It was really satisfying to see.

Su Yuan continued, “Where did you get the jade pendant you sold?”

The village head looked at Old Master Su nervously. He had vaguely guessed something, but he was unwilling to face it.

After all, this was someone he and the entire village had respected for 30 years…

Old Master Su secretly clenched his fists.

He began to regret his plan today.

Had he known that he would meet a noble from the capital, he would not have gone to the Su family to court death.

Old Master Su closed his eyes and said, “It, it fell from Su Cheng's body… He was still young. I don't know where he picked up half a rotten steamed bun. Before he could take a bite, it was snatched by a few refugees. His jade pendant… fell at that time.”

Su Yuniang said, “Why didn't you stop them?”

Old Master Su said, “There were so many refugees. Could we control them?”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Then what's the difference between stealing and you picking up my father's thing and not returning it to him?”

Old Master Su's face turned green and red.

It was too late to regret it now. The reputation of the Su family had been torn apart by this noble from the capital.

The reputation he was so proud of was actually so fragile in front of absolute power!

He was like a frog in a pond. So what if a group of small fish and shrimps admired him for many years?

When an eagle flew over from the sky and flapped its wings, it could flip the entire pond!

He looked at Su Cheng again.

Su Cheng was stunned.

Old Master Su thought of what the noble had said. This was a gift from the emperor.

If this was an item bestowed by the emperor, then where did Su Cheng come from?

He seemed… to have been wrong all along.

He was wrong. So was his father.

They thought that the child would not survive.

If they had known earlier, they would have adopted Su Cheng…

Old Master Su's thoughts had never been so chaotic. Countless ridiculous thoughts appeared in his mind.

However, it was too late now.

“Zheng Guang, take them away first.”

“Yes!”

Zheng Guang took the Su family away.

Su Yuan had something more important to verify in his heart. He turned to look at Su Cheng's eyebrows, which were identical to his aunt's. “Where did you get your jade pendant?”

Su Cheng said openly, “Oh, I picked it up.”

A trace of disappointment flashed across Su Yuan's eyes. “Where did you pick it up?”

Su Cheng said, “I don't remember. Anyway, I've had this jade pendant since I can remember.”

These words made Su Yuan's eyes light up again. “Could it be… that you didn't pick it up?”

Su Cheng scratched his head. “I heard you say just now that this thing has quite a background. If I didn't pick it up, could it be my own? I'm not afraid of you laughing at me. I was a cowherd when I was young!”

Hearing how Su Cheng had grown up, for some reason, Su Yuan's heart suddenly ached. “Where are your parents?”

Su Cheng said, “I don't have parents.”

Su Yuan was stunned.

Su Xiaoxiao explained, “My father wandered here 30 years ago. He can't remember much about his childhood. Actually, I also suspected that this jade pendant belonged to my father, but when you said that it was a gift from the emperor just now, it shouldn't be.”

No matter what, it was impossible for her father to be related to the royal family, right?

Su Yuan hurriedly said, “It's not a gift from the emperor. I was just scaring that family.”

Uh, was he so scheming?

Su Xiaoxiao said, “So were you helping us out just now?”

Of course, Su Yuan was not trying to help the Su family out, but there were some things that he could not say yet.

He looked at Su Cheng again. “Can I ask when your birthday is?”

On the field, Wei Ting was helping Old Li plow the ground.

Old Li accidentally sprained his waist. Wei Ting passed by and came over to help.

Actually, he did not know how to plow. His donkey had led the Li family's cow in the plowing.

Needless to say, the plow was quite straight.

It was a little late now, and there were no other villagers in the field.

“My Lord!”

Yuchi Xiu used his qinggong to leap over.

Wei Ting threw the whip at him.

Yuchi Xiu frowned. “Sir, I'm not here to plow the ground!”

Wei Ting said calmly, “Now you are.”

Yuchi Xiu was speechless.

“Sir, I have something to report!”

“It had better be good.”

Wei Ting did not want to hear those impure things.

Yuchi Xiu said seriously, “Of course, it's serious business! Lord, your father-in-law went to rob someone again!”

Wei Ting asked, “What do you mean again?”

Yuchi Xiu automatically skipped the question. “Sir, guess who he kidnapped this time? It's actually Su Yuan! Sir, you didn't guess wrongly! It's Su Yuan from the Marquis of Zhenbei!”

Wei Ting paused.

Yuchi Xiu said, “Sir! I'll kill him!”

If he couldn't kill Xiao Zhonghua, let him kill Su Yuan!

Otherwise, life would be too boring!

He was a killer! A killer!

“Sir, kill him? If you don't, you'll be exposed if Su Yuan sees you later! Xiao Zhonghua didn't tell anyone when he discovered you because he wanted to get rid of you secretly. Su Yuan is different. He'll return to the capital to complain!”

Wei Ting was deep in thought.

Yuchi Xiu persevered.

“Sir, do you need me to remind you that you should be cultivating under the decree at the Dragon Temple in the capital?”

“Although it's cultivation with hair, it's still cultivation!”

“Or should I call you Monk Xuan Xin? Master Xuan Xin?”

Ever since he came out of the Su family, Su Yuan could not calm down for a long time.

Zheng Guang said, “Master, you just fell ill. Let's go to the inn to rest for the night.”

“No.” Su Yuan adjusted his breathing and tried not to sound shaky. “Back to the prefecture city!”

“But you…”

Zheng Guang wanted to say that he had escaped death and would probably not be able to take it after traveling for so long.

However, when he sensed the chaotic aura in the car, he swallowed the words he was about to say.

He entered the residence at the age of 13 and worked as a servant for the heir for 20 years. He knew the heir very well. Unless something big happened, he would not be so emotional.

The two of them returned to the ancestral residence in the prefecture capital overnight.

The beast pulling the carriage was a high-grade warhorse. It was faster than those pulling ordinary carriages. In the latter half of the night, Su Mo heard a servant report that his father was back.

Su Mo quickly put on his clothes and went to see his father.

“Father, you rushed back overnight. Did you manage to invite Imperial Physician Fu?”

Back then, Imperial Physician Fu faked his death and left the capital. Even the Third Prince was kept in the dark. If not for the relationship between the Marquis of Zhenbei and Grandmaster Hui Jue, he probably would not have known the real news about Imperial Physician Fu.

Su Yuan had not slept for the entire night. His body was tired, but his eyes were bright.

Su Yuan said, “Imperial Physician Fu… I was a step too late. He has already passed away.”

Su Mo said, “What? Then isn't Grandpa…”

Su Yuan waved his hand. “Imperial Physician Fu's son has inherited his medical skills. Don't be anxious about your grandfather's illness. I have another urgent matter to tell you.”

The last time his father was so serious, he was seeing to his marriage to the daughter of the Lin family.

“Father.”

Su Yuan told his son about the jade pendant.

Su Mo was shocked. “Father means… Qin Che…”

Su Yuan said, “It's hard to say now.”

This matter was too big.

It was so big that Su Yuan did not dare to believe it himself.

If Qin Che brought back the jade pendant that they had acknowledged and it was really the one that the Su family had sold, there would be something fishy.

To be honest, he did not want to suspect Qin Che, but Su Cheng's eyebrows were too similar to his aunt's. That little girl also had some traces of his aunt's features in her youth.

There was also the faint intimacy that rose in his heart when he was in the Su family…

“Su Cheng's birthday is also the 29th of the first month…”

There were too many coincidences.

Su Mo said suspiciously, “But if he is… why did he change his name to Su Cheng?”

Su Yuan shook his head. “I'm not sure. He doesn't remember much about what happened before he was six years old. But Mo'er, the moment I saw that girl, I thought of Aunt. When I saw Su Cheng, I…”

Realizing that his words were too absolute, Su Yuan closed his eyes and calmed down.

Su Mo pondered and said, “Father, with all due respect, could there be something…”

Su Yuan said, “Are you referring to a conspiracy?”

Su Mo did not deny it. “It's very important, Father. We have to be careful.”

This was not only a matter of the Su family but also the entire Qin family.

Su Yuan thought for a moment and said, “Your concerns are not unreasonable… How about this? Immediately send a pigeon to report this to your grandfather.”

Su Mo said, “Father, why don't we investigate first? Shall we inform Grandpa after investigating?”

Su Yuan's attitude was very firm. “Report to your grandfather first. If you want to investigate, you can send someone to investigate.”

Su Mo agreed. “Got it, Father!”

Chapter 198

Compared to Su Yuan's excitement, the Su family was much calmer. The family was carefree. Nothing was important. Food was the most important.

“Daughter, what are we eating tonight?” Su Cheng asked.

Su Xiaoxiao picked a fat rib. “Tomahawk pork belly!”

Su Cheng swallowed.

He did not understand what a tomahawk was, but he understood pork belly. His daughter's food was the most fragrant!

Su Cheng opened the lid of the water tank. “Eh? The water is almost empty. Ergou! Brat, where did you go? Daughter, I'm going to get water!”

“Oh,” Su Xiaoxiao replied. She took the washed ribs into the kitchen and placed them on the chopping board before chopping them.

Su Yuniang looked at Su Cheng, who was carrying the bucket out, then at Su Xiaoxiao, who was chopping bones.

She muttered, “I say, is your reaction not right?”

After so much had just happened, were they only thinking about eating?

Su Yuniang finally understood. This family's outlook was that there was always a way even if the sky collapsed. They would squat down with bowls and continue to eat.

Su Yuniang entered the kitchen to help Su Xiaoxiao. She was not as skilled as Little Wu. At most, she would help peel a corn cob or add some firewood.

She found a small stool and sat down facing the stove. “Daya.”

“What?” Su Xiaoxiao continued to chop her ribs.

“What happened just now,” Su Yuniang said. “Don't you think that Master Su's reaction is strange? The way he looks at you and Uncle Su is strange.”

Su Xiaoxiao: “Oh.”

Su Yuniang punched the cotton.

Fortunately, Su Yuniang was already used to it. She had to learn to connect her emotions when talking to this girl. “He even asked Uncle Su about his birthday. Since you are not related, why was he asking about his birthday?”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Yes.”

Su Yuniang said, “You might not believe me, but my hands are a little itchy now.”

“Mother.”

Xiaohu slipped into the kitchen. “I'm hungry.”

Or was he greedy… Su Xiaoxiao put down the kitchen knife and handed him a scallion pancake without sugar. “Where's Dahu?”

Su Yuan had just sent Erhu back. Now that Xiaohu was back, Dahu was the only one who was still out.

Xiaohu shook his head. “No.”

The three of them went out to walk the foal. Erhu went to be a charlatan and slipped away. Xiaohu ran home to find food.

In the end, Dahu took on everything alone.

Dahu finished walking the foal conscientiously. He did not even let go of a blade of grass. He could be said to be a very serious baby.

Meizi sent Dahu back to the Su family.

Su Xiaoxiao asked Meizi to bring back a bowl of braised pork.

There was no such thing as an impenetrable wall in the world. The news of the two Su families quickly spread throughout the village. Unlike before, this time, it did not come from Madam Zhou.

It was from the Li family.

The village head was dealt a huge blow.

He never expected the Su family to steal a child's thing, lie to the villagers for so many years, and enjoy the repayment of the villagers with a clear conscience.

On the other hand, Su Cheng, who had his jade pendant stolen, was living a hungry and cold life, receiving disdain from the villagers.

The village head felt too uncomfortable. He went back and drank two cups from Old Li.

When Old Li heard this, he really did not dare to believe it. “The jade pendant… belongs to Su Cheng?”

The village head nodded drunkenly.

His last bit of rationality made him choke.

Madam Qian listened. She had long disliked the Su family.

Yes, she had Su Yuniang to thank for singlehandedly pulling Madam Qian's hatred towards the Su family.

That night, she told the rest about the Su family stealing Su Cheng's jade pendant.

Auntie Liu was dumbfounded. “No way…”

Madam Qian said, “Why not? The village head said so! I heard it with my own ears! A noble came to the capital and forced Su Can's father to admit it! Their Su family doesn't have any ancestral jade pendants at all! They stole from Su Cheng!”

Auntie Wu said, “Auntie Qian, could you have made a mistake?”

“I'm not blind yet! How can I be wrong?”

“Who doesn't know that you hate the Su family because Yu Niang snatched your midwife? But you can't go around defaming the Su family because of this?”

“That's right. How much money did Daya give you? Are you speaking up for her family like this?”

Most of the villagers were unwilling to doubt the Su family. It was not only the prestige that the Su family had established over the past 30 years but also a kind of human nature. After all, no one was willing to easily deny their versions of reality.

Auntie Qian chuckled and said, “The noble's carriage entered the village. Are you really blind or are you pretending to be blind? If you don't believe me, you can go and confront the Su family! Let's see if they still have the cheek to say that the jade pendant they sold back then was passed down from their ancestors!”

Everyone looked at each other.

“Are you going?”

“This, this isn't good, right?”

“That's right. No matter who we suspect, we can't suspect the Su family… If it weren't for them back then… our entire village would have starved to death… They took the jade pendant to help us… Are we still human to suspect them like this?”

Auntie Liu patted her butt. “If you guys aren't going, I'll go!”

“I'll go take a look too,” Auntie Qian said.

With two taking the lead, it was not difficult for a third one to come.

Moreover, everyone was thinking that they were not going to question the Su family, but to listen to the Su family refute the rumors.

However, when the villagers arrived at the Su family in twos and threes, the door of the Su family had already closed.

It was not completely dark yet!

They went to the back door again and it was also closed!

Auntie Liu rolled up her sleeves and raised her hand to knock on the door. “Uncle Su, are you home? Dalang? Erlang? San Lang? Jinniang!”

She called them one by one, but there was no response from behind the door.

The villagers did not believe that there was no one in the Su family. The village was only so big. There were seven to eight people in the Su family. Would no one see them if they really left the village?

This attitude… seemed a little guilty…

Madam Qian sneered. “Heh, what did I say!”

The doors and windows of the Su family were closed, and the house was dark.

The family sat in the central room, not daring to breathe.

They had heard the villagers knocking on the door, but they did not dare to open it!

What were they going to say?

The Su family was slandering them. They didn't steal Su Cheng's jade pendant. Su Cheng stole their family's…

If it were two hours ago, they might have been able to say it.

But now, with the vassal from the capital testifying for the Su family, did their Su family want to die?

Moreover, that was an item bestowed by the emperor!

They wished that their family had never sold it!

How dare they continue to lie that it was their family heirloom?

How many heads were enough to roll?

Old Su's attitude made the villagers unable to sit still.

The villagers ran to the village head's house to verify it.

The village head was drunk. He was originally thinking that since they were fellow villagers, he should not make things too ugly. In the end, when the alcohol kicked in, he completely forgot what he had said.

That night, Apricot Flower Village exploded.

Chapter 199

Wei Ting returned from the field at almost dark. It had been an hour since Su Yuan left, and the news of the Su family stealing Su Cheng's jade pendant had also spread.

The villagers gathered at the entrance of the village in twos and threes or at their own entrance. The atmosphere was incomparably intense. Those who did not know would think that something big had happened in the village.

In fact, it was indeed a big deal.

An old man with a white beard sighed. “Sigh, the heavens are good. No wonder he keeps coming to extort us. Don't we owe him?”

Back then, Su Cheng's jade pendant was used to exchange for those grains. The villagers owed Su Cheng a favor.

Had Su Cheng really extorted a lot over the years? No.

He had only extorted a few copper coins. How much food had they eaten back then?

At the mention of food, another infuriating thing happened.

“I asked Yuniang just now. The Su family sold it for a thousand taels back then! They spent less than a hundred taels to buy food for us! They have a lot of money in their hands, but they pretended to eat chaff and swallow vegetables in front of the villagers every day. They looked like they were about to run out of food! Who were they doing it for!”

“Exactly!”

“If they didn't do this, how can the village give them the land?”

“I was really blind back then! I didn't expect them to be such shameless things!”

“Speaking of which, why does Su Cheng have such a valuable jade pendant?”

“He wandered to Willow Village… Could it be that he's actually a child of a rich family?”

“Come on, Auntie Wu. Which kid from a rich family isn't pampered? Su Cheng was a cowherd. He was just lucky. He probably picked it up from somewhere!”

“It's also his! It's wrong for the Su family to steal his jade pendant!”

Wei Ting had heard most of it along the way.

His expression was still very cold. He frowned, looking icier than usual.

When he entered the house, the three little ones were sitting on the threshold, holding the milk bottle with both hands and drinking milk.

Behind the three of them was the central room with a few oil lamps.

Su Ergou set up the tables and chairs and prepared to eat.

His gaze passed through the central room and saw Su Cheng chopping firewood in the backyard.

After that, he saw Su Xiaoxiao busying herself in the kitchen.

A phrase flashed through his mind: disengagement from worldly affairs.

In the village, the villagers were all cursing, but no one here mentioned this matter.

Everyone buried their heads in their food and did not let Su Xiaoxiao down.

The world was huge, and food was the most important!

Su Xiaoxiao made Tomahawk pork belly tonight. Every rib was full of meat, fat, and thin. It was wrapped in red-hot sauce. After taking a bite, the salty, sweet, and fragrant sauce exploded in her mouth with fresh gravy. She was simply heaven.

The three little ones also got three small pieces. They grabbed them and chewed until their mouths were oily.

Wei Ting's taste was light and he had never eaten anything too greasy.

Su Xiaoxiao left him the thinnest piece.

He shaved off the thin layer of fat on it.

Then, he placed the remaining lean meat back into Su Xiaoxiao's bowl.

Su Xiaoxiao looked at him strangely.

Wei Ting ate the fatty meat in his bowl with a cold expression.

Su Xiaoxiao thought for a moment and stood up to give him a piece of pure fat.

Wei Ting was speechless.

After dinner, Su Xiaoxiao went to tidy up the kitchen and prepare the ingredients she needed to make snacks tomorrow morning.

Su Yuniang walked in with a pot of wine. “You really can't stay idle.”

Su Xiaoxiao sniffed. “Wine?”

Su Yuniang waved the wine pot in her hand. “There.”

Su Xiaoxiao had a serious expression. “Su Yuniang, are you not nursing the child anymore?”

Su Yuniang smiled charmingly and found a stool to sit on. “I've made an agreement with Sister Zhao. She'll help feed her for a few days.”

Su Yuniang was really capable. Back then, she had made the Li family hate the entire Su family by snatching the midwife. Now, she had taken the gold to smoothen her relationship with the Li family, leaving the rest of the Su family to be hated by the Li family.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “You really leave everything to others.”

Su Yuniang snorted. “I can't compare to you. Ever since you have Little Wu, I think you're getting freer and freer.”

Su Xiaoxiao chuckled. “Who said I couldn't stay idle just now?”

Su Yuniang mumbled, “Damn, I drank too much. My brain is mush!”

Su Yuniang gulped down a few more mouthfuls. “Daya, do you have any plans for the future?”

Su Xiaoxiao glanced at her. “Why are you suddenly asking about this?”

Su Yuniang said, “I was just asking.”

Su Xiaoxiao thought about it seriously. “Earn money and let my father and brother live a good life. Let Su Ji flourish and let Ergou sell pancakes happily every day.”

There were also the three children; she wanted to let them live a life where they no longer had to hide.

If possible, she wanted to walk around and see Great Zhou's lovely landscape.

In her previous life, other than studying, she was only working. She had spent her short life in school and the army and had no chance to go out and see the exciting world outside.

In this life, she wanted to live a different life.

“What about you? What are your plans?” she asked Su Yuniang.

She did not have many friends in her previous life. Firstly, she was not used to interacting with others. Secondly… she only realized now that there might be something wrong with her personality in her previous life.

However, perhaps because she had died once, or perhaps because she had fused with this body's memories and instincts, her personality had changed slightly from what she had in her previous life.

The obvious result was that she had friends.

“Me.” Su Yuniang took a sip of wine and was a little drunk. “I want to leave this place with my girl, go somewhere no one knows, and start over.”

“Have you thought of where to go?” Su Xiaoxiao asked.

Su Yuniang shook her head.

She glanced at Su Xiaoxiao. “You've really lost a lot of weight… Do you want a sip? Why? You don't dare to drink? You're a little bully from Apricot Flower Village, but you don't even dare to drink? You have to live up to your reputation!”

Did this little rich woman use provocation?

Wasn't it just a mouthful of wine?

Was there a need?

In her previous life, she could hold her liquor very well. No one in the army could outdrink her. In private, she had a title—it was something about not getting drunk after a thousand glasses!

However, Su Xiaoxiao had forgotten about the weak instincts of this body.

One sip, two sips…

Duang!

She collapsed!

Su Yuniang was speechless.

Su Yuniang was half awake from the shock!

This girl… Did she collapse?

Su Yuniang quickly squatted down to check her breathing. “Daya! Daya!”

Su Xiaoxiao said vaguely, “Yuniang, let me tell you a secret… Wei Ting and I… are a fake couple…”

As soon as she finished speaking, Wei Ting walked over.

He bent down and picked up a certain drunk little fat peacock; his movements were natural and skilled.

Su Xiaoxiao also hugged his neck and buried her head in his chest, looking for a comfortable position.

Perhaps it was too uncomfortable to drink, she frowned in frustration.

Wei Ting lowered his head and gently pressed his exquisite chin against her slightly hot forehead.

A casual action revealed silent comfort.

Su Xiaoxiao really fell asleep in his arms.

Su Yuniang said incredulously,” You call this a fake couple? I don't believe you!”

“I'll bring Daya back to the house first.”

After Wei Ting greeted Su Yuniang, he carried a certain drunk little girl back to the east room.

Su Yuniang watched the two of them leave with a trace of envy in her eyes.

She would probably never meet a man who was sincere to her in her life.

“Woman.”

Yuchi Xiu appeared behind her like a ghost and said sinisterly, “Give me back my underpants.”

Chapter 200

Wei Ting placed Su Xiaoxiao on the soft bed.

She turned around in a daze and lay beside the three little ones. Her round and chubby face was pressed down, and her red mouth was slightly open. Her lips were full and cute.

Wei Ting watched and did not notice that he was bending down lower and lower.

He only vaguely felt that her breathing was a little hot and close.

“My Lord…”

Yuchi Xiu appeared behind him with a dark expression.

Wei Ting sat up straight in a second!

Yuchi Xiu didn't know what he had destroyed just now. He didn't see anything.

This guy was really ruthless as an assassin. He was always short-sighted when it came to other matters.

There was no light in the room, but the two of them had excellent eyesight.

Wei Ting only glanced at it indifferently and asked, “What's wrong with your eyes?”

Yuchi Xiu's eye was swollen.

He refused to answer.

“My Lord.”

He said with an ashen face, “Since your leg has recovered, I think we have to return to the capital quickly. Before we go back, I'll kill Xiao Zhonghua or Su Yuan. You have to let me kill one of them!”

Towards the end, he became agitated.

Wei Ting glared at him coldly.

He fell silent obediently.

Wei Ting looked at Su Xiaoxiao, who was sleeping soundly beside him, and said to Yuchi Xiu, “When is it your turn to make decisions for me?”

Other killers cherished their words like gold, but it was the other way around when it came to Yuchi Xiu.

“Are you planning to continue wasting your time here? If Xiao Zhonghua finds out that he can't kill you, the first thing he will do when he returns to the capital is to expose you in front of the emperor. Xiao Zhonghua is about to return to the capital. Don't ask me how I know. His wedding date with the Qin family's young lady has already been set. It will be ten days at the earliest, no later than half a month. Xiao Zhonghua will be setting off soon.”

Wei Ting's expression was cold.

Yuchi Xiu narrowed his eyes and said, “Your Excellency, don't tell me you like this girl and can't bear to leave. Don't blame me for not reminding you, Your Excellency. Monks can't get married. You're still cultivating! Be careful not to break the rule of abstinence!”

Fifteen minutes later, Yuchi Xiu came out of the east room. His other eye was also swollen.

After finally chasing away the noisy killer, Wei Ting lay quietly beside Su Xiaoxiao.

In the past, there were three little ones between the two of them, but today, he placed her in the middle.

He even snatched her blanket.

Su Xiaoxiao was dizzy. The more she slept, the colder it became. She subconsciously leaned to the side. The blanket for the three little ones was small and not enough for her.

She turned around in a daze and moved towards Wei Ting.

She first reached in with one of her hands. It was warm. She squeezed in her little fat body, which was trembling from the cold.

Wei Ting snorted.

See, she took the initiative.

Who was the one who broke the rule of abstinence?

Su Xiaoxiao slept soundly and woke up at dawn.

The three little ones and Wei Ting were long gone. She sat on the bed alone for a long time before remembering that she seemed to have drunk a few mouthfuls of wine… Then, there was nothing else.

She rubbed her sore neck. “The pillow last night seemed a little hard. It hurt my neck.”

She dressed up and went to the backyard to wash up.

Wei Ting was also there.

Su Xiaoxiao glanced at him. “Eh? What's wrong with your mouth? Are you heaty?”

Wei Ting said with a serious expression, “No.”

Su Xiaoxiao: “Oh.”

Su Ergou and Li Xiaoyong went to sell pancakes while Father Su went to plow the land. Su Cheng originally did not want to go, but Wei Ting had helped Old Li yesterday. Today, Old Li wanted to return the favor no matter what, so he dragged Father Su to the field.

“Where are Dahu and the others?” Su Xiaoxiao asked.

“They went to look for Niudan,” Wei Ting said.

Su Xiaoxiao asked strangely, “Why… didn't you go to the field?”

Wei Ting said righteously, “I'm heaty.”

Su Xiaoxiao was speechless.

Breakfast was a steamed sweet potato and two boiled eggs. After mashing them into a paste, she mixed a spoonful of peanut butter and half a spoonful of sesame sauce to satisfy her cravings and fill her stomach.

After breakfast, Su Xiaoxiao left.

Su Ji's business was getting bigger and bigger. She thought that she couldn't keep setting up a stall and had to rent a shop.

She had already thought of the location. It was opposite Jin Ji.

That cloth shop happened to be moving. She had to think of a way to buy the shop. Otherwise, she would not be able to get such a good opportunity again.

After a night of fermentation, the matter of the jade pendant had already spread to the neighboring village. What was laughable was that the Su family still did not dare to come forward to give everyone an explanation.

When Su Xiaoxiao passed by the Su family, she saw that the Su family's door was surrounded by villagers. Everyone was already furious, but the Su family kept hiding. It was simply adding oil to the fire.

The villagers also saw Su Xiaoxiao and the atmosphere instantly became a little awkward.

Everyone had scolded the Su family for so many years, but they did not expect that the entire village owed the Su family a favor in the end.

She thought that Fatty Su would mock them in various ways, such as scolding them for being blind. Unexpectedly, Fatty Su left as usual without saying a word.

“Had she scolded me a few times, I might feel better…”

“Yes, I… I really want her to scold me…”

However, she did not argue, fight, or snatch. She quietly disappeared at the village entrance step by step, making one's eyes burn.

At the academy, Liu Ping came to deliver the snacks that the students had reserved and the pear loquat cream that Su Xiaoxiao had brewed for Young Master Xiang.

Changping tested for poison with silver needles and scooped some to feed the chickens.

The chickens were all alive.

“That can't be, Young Master.” Changping was puzzled. “Did Su Ergou not give him the white jade ointment? Or did he not realize that we had tampered with the ointment? Ah! Could it be that he didn't guess that Young Master…”

Young Master Xiang said, “Do you think the youngest son of the Wei family is very stupid?”

Changping said, “Ah, well…”

Young Master Xiang smiled faintly. “He was my study companion back then. We know each other's handwriting like the back of our hands. Since my calligraphy treasure has already been sent to the Su family, it's impossible for him to not have guessed about me. Before he became a general, he was a famous young talent in the capital. There's no need for me to say how smart he is.”

Changping was even more confused. “Then… if we poisoned him, he should have discovered it. Why didn't he come back for us? What a good opportunity!”

Young Master Xiang looked at the porcelain cup on the table. “Let me ask you, who made the snow pear loquat cream?”

Changping said, “Miss Su.”

Young Master Xiang continued, “If I'm poisoned after eating her food, what will happen to her?”

“Her entire family will be executed!” Changping said as he realized something. His eyes widened. “Young Master means…”

Young Master Xiang lowered his eyes and took a sip of tea. “Wei Qi, oh Wei Qi, do you finally have a weakness?”

Chapter 201

Chang Ping felt that it was unlikely.

The youngest son of the Wei family was famous for being unreasonable.

Princess Hui An had grown up with him and jumped off the city gate tower for him. He didn't even blink. If the secret guards hadn't intervened in time, Princess Hui An would have fallen to her death.

There was also Princess Lingxi, his biological cousin. She fell into the lake in front of him and he just walked off. Because of this, Old General Wei slapped him dozens of times and locked him in the ancestral hall in the winter to kneel…

That guy had a heart of stone. Why would he care about the life and death of a village girl?

Young Master Xiang smiled. “This is getting more and more interesting.”

Chang Ping suddenly said, “Young Master! I've thought of a good idea! Since he cares so much about that girl, why don't… we capture her!”

“Young Master Jing!”

Another servant reported from outside.

Chang Ping glanced at his young master and immediately shut up.

Jing Yi walked in. “Cousin.”

Young Master Xiang said warmly, “Where did you go? You're sweating profusely.”

Jing Yi said, “I just came from the courier station.”

Young Master Xiang paused. “Is there another message from the capital?”

Jing Yi nodded. “Your wedding date with Miss Qin has been set. It's in May. The palace is urging you to go back as soon as possible.”

Young Master Xiang put down his teacup helplessly. “Got it.”

Jing Yi said, “Cousin, if there's nothing else, I'll leave first.”

Young Master Xiang said, “Go.”

After thinking for a moment, he said, “Jing Yi, are you hiding something from me?”

Jing Yi asked, “Cousin, what do you mean?”

Young Master Xiang smiled gently. “It's nothing. I was just saying. You should understand that you're the only person I can trust. You won't betray me, right?”

Jing Yi was stunned. “Of course, I won't betray Cousin.”

Young Master Xiang smiled in satisfaction.

Jing Yi stood up and left.

He had already gone out when he suddenly stopped.

“Cousin, I can kill anyone you want. Don't touch her.”

Su Xiaoxiao went to Manager Sun's residence first and told him about the shop.

Shopkeeper Sun's eyes were filled with tears.

After being a stall owner for so long, were they finally going to have their own shop?

“Which location do you like?” Manager Sun asked.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “The cloth shop opposite Jin Ji.”

Manager Su replied, “You're going against Jin Ji!”

“Coincidentally, so am I.”

Like-minded people discussed everything abnormally smoothly. The two of them hit it off and set off for the cloth shop.

The cloth shop was sublet under a lease that had yet to expire because of poor management.

However, because of the good location and the fact that the boss of the cloth shop had seen Su Ji expand with his own eyes, he felt that Su Ji had earned a lot of money and wanted to make a killing on Su Ji.

What a coincidence. Shopkeeper Sun and Su Xiaoxiao were each more experienced than the other party. They let the cloth shop owner say whatever he wanted but refused to increase the price.

“Go and ask around. Where else can you find a better shop than mine? Girl, you first set up a stall outside my shop, right? Did you come here as soon as you wanted to set up your own shop? Let me tell you, my Fengshui is good!”

Su Xiaoxiao said calmly, “Then why are you closing down?”

The cloth shop owner was speechless.

“You guys just want to snatch business from Jin Ji! There's no other shop for rent nearby!”

The cloth shop owner had rented it for 20 taels a month for a total of five years. There were still three years left, which added up to 720 taels. He wanted to double it and transfer it to Su Xiaoxiao.

Could Su Xiaoxiao be such a fool?

“Manager Sun, let's go.”

After leaving the cloth shop, Manager Sun asked, “Do you really not want that shop anymore?”

“Yes.” Su Xiaoxiao hooked her finger at Manager Sun.

Manager Sun leaned over.

Su Xiaoxiao whispered a few instructions, and the corners of Manager Sun's mouth twitched. “Will this work?”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “We'll know if it works or not.”

She had always been a person who reciprocated the actions of others tenfold. If the cloth shop owner wanted to cheat her, he shouldn't blame her for tricking him.

The next afternoon, a few more people came to the cloth shop to ask for the price. However, what annoyed the cloth shop was that those people haggled over the price, and each was more ridiculous than the last!

“250 taels? Do you think I'm a beggar? Go, go, go!”

The next two days were the same. Many people asked, but not a single one exceeded 300 taels. The lowest one even shouted 150 taels. He almost vomited blood on the spot.

When Su Xiaoxiao and Su Ergou came to the alley opposite to sell pancakes again, he braced himself and walked over.

“Girl, do you still want the shop?”

Su Xiaoxiao said casually, “No.”

The cloth shop owner trembled. “What?”

Su Xiaoxiao said seriously, “I've thought about it. I don't have to rent your shop to destroy Jin Ji. I'll snatch the business of Jin Ji and wait for it to close down!”

The cloth shop owner was stupefied.

If it were anyone else who boasted like this, the cloth shop owner would definitely scoff. However, this girl's business was indeed getting bigger and bigger, and she was hiring more and more people.

When the new year began, there were still a lot of customers queuing at the entrance of Jin Ji. Now, almost all of them were here.

Although it was still too exaggerated to destroy Jin Ji, he inexplicably felt that this girl might really be able to do it!

The cloth shop owner said, “You don't have a shop, so you're just a small stall. You won't be able to get good business! A rich family won't be willing to buy your snacks!”

Su Xiaoxiao exclaimed, “Do you mean that the Qi family is not a big family? I wonder if Old Madam Qi and Minister Qi will be unhappy when they hear this?”

The cloth shop owner's heart skipped a beat.

He quickly tried to smooth things over. “I-I just think that since your snacks are so good, you have to have a shop to show off, right?”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “We're running a small business. I can't afford your price!”

The cloth store owner said, “How much do you want?”

Su Xiaoxiao gestured with her finger.

The cloth shop owner covered his chest. “200 taels?! You said 600 taels last time!”

Su Xiaoxiao shrugged. “That was the price last time. You missed it. There's nothing else.”

The cloth shop owner was speechless.

In the end, Su Xiaoxiao took over his shop for 400 taels. The rent was 350 taels, and the other 50 taels were to buy some furniture in his shop.

The boss saw that Su Xiaoxiao was a little girl; since he couldn't take advantage when it came to the rental, he wanted to scam her in other areas. Unexpectedly, Su Xiaoxiao was even smarter than the accountant of the county office.

“If you move away a day later, I'll deduct a day's rent.”

The cloth shop owner broke out in cold sweat. Was a small village girl so powerful these days?

On second thought, it made sense. How could she go against Jin Ji if she wasn't powerful?

The cloth shop owner hurriedly got someone to pack up. Manager Sun went to the county office to invite the bailiff over and settle the procedures for subletting.

Next was the renovation. After all, they were setting up a snack shop. The layout of the shop would be different from that of a cloth shop.

When Su Xiaoxiao went back to design the blueprint, Shopkeeper Sun would look for a craftsman. Liu Ping could also count as one.

Chapter 202

Because there were some details to discuss, Manager Sun returned to the village with Su Xiaoxiao.

He could not walk far so Xiaowu drove the carriage.

Su Xiaoxiao looked at the hired carriage and thought that it was not as cheap as at the beginning of the year. The difference would allow her to buy a carriage.

Tomorrow, she would go to the market with Liu Ping.

“Do you have any different opinions about what I just said?” Manager Sun asked.

“Build another kitchen. Also, don't dig small fish ponds in the backyard. There's no need for these fancy things,” Su Xiaoxiao said.

Manager Sun muttered, “Weren't you distracted just now?”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Is it difficult to multitask?”

Manager Sun was speechless.

“You often make me wonder if I'm not smart enough.”

As they spoke, the carriage entered the village.

“Did something big happen to your village? It seems very lively.”

Manager Sun had been to the village several times and had never seen so many villagers.

Su Xiaoxiao glanced at it. More than half of the village was occupied. The other half had rushed over from the neighboring villages. They had probably heard about the Su family and specially came to join in the fun.

Su Xiaoxiao nodded calmly. “Yes.”

Manager Sun was about to say, “Forget it” when he saw someone carrying a feces bucket at the entrance of the Su family and splashing it on the closed door.

Manager Sun was stunned.

“Isn't that the most respected family in your village? What public anger did they stoke?”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “It's a long story. In a nutshell, unjust deeds lead to self-destruction.”

Had Old Su's face been torn off in a day? No.

The family had been pretending for a long time and really treated themselves as almighty. They thought that their status would not be shaken no matter what. Little did they know that from the moment they took Su Cheng's jade pendant for themselves, they were destined to end up like this.

Letting them live freely for thirty years was already letting them off easy.

However, everything was a double-edged sword. The villagers had been deceived for 30 years, so one could imagine the anger in their hearts.

At the entrance of the Su family, there were people splashing feces, smashing the door, and the villagers clamoring for the Su family to return the land in the village and all the rent they had collected over the years.

The Su family's reputation collapsed overnight.

Manager Sun shook his head. “Heavens, I can't believe it.”

At Little Su's house, Su Yuniang was bandaging Madam Wu's wound.

“What happened?” Su Xiaoxiao asked.

Madam Wu's eyes were red.

As Su Yuniang bandaged her, she said, “The Liu family's ancestral house collapsed. Fortunately, we ran away quickly. Otherwise, we would have been buried inside.”

Madam Wu was hit by a beam and had a few cuts on her arm. She was bleeding a little. Fortunately, it was not too serious.

The sisters were playing in the Su family's house. Liu Ping did not return from town, so the father and daughters escaped.

However, for the time being, they had nowhere to stay.

Madam Wu's relationship with her maternal family was not bad. Unfortunately, her maternal family had a number of people and could not accommodate another person, let alone take in their family of four.

The Su family could not do it either. Every room was filled to the brim, so there was no space at all.

Madam Wu was so worried that she couldn't help but cry.

“I thought it was a big deal.” Su Xiaoxiao placed a stack of documents on the table.

Madam Wu looked up in a daze.

Su Yuniang picked up the document and took a look. “Yo, you rented a shop?”

This girl was good at doing things!

Even men could not compare to her swiftness!

“There's a ready-made room in the shop. You can stay there tonight, but the ingredients in the kitchen are not complete. You still have to make snacks here for the time being.”

However, this was not a problem. Because Father Su loved to snooze, the time at which they set up the stall was usually delayed for a full two hours.

The couple could wait for the children to wake up and drive the donkey cart over.

Madam Wu did not expect the problem to be resolved so easily. It seemed that there was nothing in the world that Daya could not resolve. It was great to meet her in this life.

On the other side, there was also a reply to Su Mo's letter.

There was a certain risk in sending pigeons. After all, no one could guarantee that the pigeons would not be shot to death or hunted by large birds halfway through their flight. It could only be said that they were lucky.

Su Mo took the note from the messenger pigeon and went to Su Yuan's study. “Father! Grandpa replied!”

“Hurry up and see what your grandfather said!” Su Yuan said.

He had absolute trust in his son, but Su Mo would never forget the rules because of his father's trust.

“Yes.”

With his father's approval, Su Mo took off the thin rope, opened the note, and read every word carefully. He said to Su Yuan, “Grandpa said to bring him back to the capital.”

Su Yuan said, “What else?”

Su Mo shook his head. “No.”

Su Yuan: “That's… that's it?”

Su Mo nodded.

“Sigh.” Su Yuan sighed helplessly.

He really respected his father, but sometimes, he was really helpless in regard to the latter's reticence.

Perhaps it was because he was a general, but his father cherished his words like gold. If he could convey his thoughts in a word, he would definitely not use another word.

Su Yuan took the note and glanced at it.

Indeed, three of the six words were added by Su Mo himself. The original words were: bring back capital.

Su Yuan muttered, “What… does your grandfather mean?”

Su Mo smiled bitterly. “Father, you're Grandpa's biological son. If you don't know, how can I guess Grandpa's thoughts? You knew Grandpa 20 years before me.”

Su Yuan was speechless.

Su Yuan was at a loss. “I don't know if this is legitimate or not. If we bring him back, won't something happen?”

Su Mo said, “Perhaps Grandpa means to bring him back so that he can tell if he's real or fake?”

Su Yuan wondered, “Who was the one who said that he couldn't guess Old Master's thoughts just now?”

But how would they bring him? Would they bring them all or only Su Cheng?

Grandpa was really…

Su Mo put away the note and said to Su Yuan, “Father, leave this to me.”

Su Yuan frowned. “Are you planning to go to Apricot Flower Town?”

Su Mo smiled. “Didn't Father already agree to let me investigate it myself? Last time, I was busy with Second Brother's wedding gift and didn't have the chance to see them. This time, I have to see them with my own eyes.”

“Cousin! Cousin!”

It was Qin Yun.

The father and son ended the conversation at the right time.

Qin Yun strode in. “Cousin! Eh? Uncle is here too?”

Qin Yun was dressed in tight clothes today and held a big bow in his hand. It seemed like he was going out to hunt.

Qin Yun was the descendant of the Duke Protector's Estate and the Marquis of Zhenbei's Estate. He was born with a silver spoon in his mouth and grew up in luxury. Any clothes he took off or food he saved was enough for a country bumpkin family to eat for an entire year.

Thinking of Su Cheng and his children who had suffered in the countryside, Su Yuan suddenly felt a little upset.

“Uncle, you don't look too good,” said Qin Yun.

Su Mo glanced at his father.

Su Yuan knew that he had lost his composure. The truth had yet to be investigated, so Su Cheng might not be his aunt's son.

But why was he always thinking about Su Cheng and those two children?

Chapter 203

“Maybe I didn't sleep well last night,” Su Yuan said warmly.

Qin Yun said, “Oh, then Uncle, hurry up and rest. Cousin, let's go hunting. Let's not disturb Uncle's rest!”

Su Mo paused for a moment and said, “I have a few friends to visit. I'm afraid I won't be able to hunt with you today.”

“Ah?” Qin Yun was disappointed.

He was a child who had been pampered by the two families. His requests were rarely rejected.

In the past, Su Mo would have listened to him.

However, there was indeed something that had to be done immediately.

Su Mo smiled and said, “How about I accompany you next time?”

Qin Yun said arrogantly, “But I just want to hunt today!”

Previously, he was inferior to a country bumpkin and even suffered a whip from that country bumpkin. It was not until these two days that his face healed. He had suffered injustice and wanted to wreak vengeance in the forest!

Su Mo said seriously, “Not today.”

Qin Yun curled his lips and left unwillingly. “I'll go find Second Cousin and Third Cousin!”

Su Yuan looked at Qin Yun and shook his head. “This child is really spoiled. Fortunately, his sister isn't like him.”

Although Qin Yun's sister had been pampered since she was young, she was much more sensible than Qin Yun. She was proficient in music, chess, calligraphy, and painting. She was also gentle and virtuous. She was a famous talent in the capital.

Thinking of Qin Yanran, Su Yuan couldn't help but think of the marriage between the Protector Duke's residence and the Third Prince.

He frowned. “There's no time to lose. Mo'er, set off for Apricot Flower Town today.”

“Yes, Father.”

“Wait.” Su Yuan stopped his eldest son. “Young Master Xiang and Young Marquis Jing are also in Apricot Flower Town. You… have to avoid them.”

Su Mo nodded. “I understand.”

After discussing the details of the trip with Su Yuan, Su Mo left the ancestral residence in a carriage.

Not long after leaving the ancestral residence, Su Mo felt that he was being followed.

He opened a gap in the back curtain of the carriage. After taking a glance, he quietly lowered the curtain.

Su Mo chose a high-grade warhorse and arrived in town in the afternoon.

This was his first time in Apricot Flower Town. In order to ensure that the mission was successfully completed, he brought a map and a coachman who knew the way.

The coachman was not Zheng Guang.

Zheng Guang had already shown his face. Su Mo did not know the Su family's attitude towards Su Yuan. To be cautious, he chose an unfamiliar servant.

“A trip to Spring Willow Lane,” he said.

The coachman did not dare to ask. Weren't they going to Apricot Flower Village? Why did they change their route to go to Spring Willow Alley?

Although Su Mo was a gentle and filial son in front of Su Yuan, Su Mo's temper was much stronger than Su Yuan's. In private, the servants were very afraid of Su Mo.

“We're here,” Su Mo said.

The coachman stopped the carriage at the Fu family's entrance.

Investigating the Su family was important, but his grandfather's health could not be ignored.

His grandfather had been in the military his entire life. He should not have to spend his last days on the sickbed without dignity.

Physician Fu had returned from his consultation and was drying herbs in the courtyard.

Seeing someone at the door, he thought that it was someone who was here for a consultation, so he said, “Come in. I'm almost done here. Go to the central room and sit for a while.”

Su Mo had never seen a physician.

He quietly observed at the door for a few breaths before showing his astonishing observation skills. “Doctor Fu?”

“Ah, it's me.” The doctor spread the herbs in the sack on the dustpan and looked up at the other party. “You are?”

Su Mo was dressed like a normal young master from the capital. Based on his appearance and bearing, he did not look like someone from town.

Doctor Fu was stunned for a moment. For some reason, he felt that this person was not here for a consultation.

“What's the matter?” The doctor asked.

Su Mo smiled warmly. “I'm here to ask Doctor Fu for a consultation.”

Doctor Fu said, “I have a house call. Are you in a hurry? It might not be convenient today. A patient will come over to change his dressing later. He's quite seriously injured. I have to see him first.”

“To the capital,” Su Mo said.

The doctor was stunned again.

Then, he shook his head like a rattle drum. “I can't go to the capital. Find someone else!”

Su Mo said, “I won't reveal Doctor Fu's whereabouts.”

“It's not about that. My mother is old and has been in the capital for so long. I'm worried… Wait, what do you mean by not revealing my whereabouts?” Halfway through his sentence, the doctor suddenly realized that something was wrong.

A wary look crossed his eyes.

At this moment, Aunt Fu walked out with her walking stick.

Aunt Fu said calmly, “Go back. My son won't go to the capital for a consultation.”

Su Mo cupped his hands and bowed like a junior. “Old Madam Fu, only Doctor Fu can treat my grandfather's illness.”

Aunt Fu said in a low voice, “I've said it before. With my son's medical skills, he can't treat the Old Marquis!”

Su Mo said, “How could that be? Three days ago, my father accidentally inhaled the willow catkins and was in danger. Your son's beloved disciple saved my father's life. You more or less know my father's situation. Every time it flares up, it's really dangerous.”

“Mom, do you know each other?” The doctor asked.

Aunt Fu did not answer him. Instead, she looked at him coldly. “Have you taken in a disciple?”

The doctor's eyes flashed. “Ah… well…”

Aunt Fu asked, “When did you accept a disciple!”

The doctor coughed lightly. “Just… just before the new year.”

Aunt Fu asked, “Who is it? How old is he? Where does he live? Is he married? Is his family clean?”

“Clean. Her family background is very clean. She's from the Apricot Flower Village. How, how old is she…” The doctor did not ask the girl.

“Sixteen,” Su Mo said.

Aunt Fu frowned as if she was wondering why Su Mo knew the other party's age. However, she thought that it was most likely Su Yuan who said it, so she didn't take it to heart.

“Bring him over for me to meet another day,” Aunt Fu said to her son.

The doctor said awkwardly, “There's no need…”

“If you see that person, you'll strangle me to death…

Aunt Fu snorted. “It's a big deal to acknowledge a master. I haven't had a cup of grand-disciple tea yet.”

The doctor whispered, “You've already drunk it… Not to mention grand-disciple tea, you've even eaten grand-disciple food…”

Aunt Fu frowned and said, “What are you muttering about?”

The Fu doctor's expression turned serious. “Nothing.”

Aunt Fu suddenly said, “Wait, Apricot Flower Village? The same village as that girl? Why did you go there to accept disciples?”

The doctor wiped his cold sweat. “I…”

Aunt Fu waved her hand. “Forget it. As long as it's not that girl, it's up to you.”

“Yes, yes, yes,” the Physician Fu slurred.

Aunt Fu was about to annoy her son to death. “Did your mouth get smeared? Can you speak properly?”

Physician Fu braced himself and said, “That's her.”

“Who is it?” Aunt Fu asked.

The Fu doctor looked death in the eye. “Su… Daya.”

Aunt Fu was shocked

Half an hour later, the Fu family's courtyard was in chaos, accompanied by the screams of Physician Fu.

Su Mo came out of Spring Willow Alley and got into the carriage to Apricot Flower Village.

Just as they reached the next alley, he asked the carriage to stop.

“Come out.”

He spoke calmly.

Chapter 204

The coachman looked around.

What was the situation?

Were they followed?

Su Mo said coldly, “Don't make me say it a second time.”

At the other end of the alley, two men in luxurious clothes pushed each other and forced themselves to walk over.

The coachman took a look and was instantly dumbfounded. “Second Young Master? Third Young Master? It's you?”

The two of them got into the carriage.

Su Qi chuckled. “Brother, when did you discover us?”

Su Mo said, “You exposed yourself before you left the ancestral residence. Do you think you hid very well?”

Su Yu said, “I knew we would be discovered. Why don't we just take Big Brother's carriage? The servants' carriage is suffocating!”

Su Qi chuckled. “Why didn't you say so just now?”

Su Yu curled her lips and said, “You didn't give me a chance to say it!”

These two younger brothers were only a year apart and loved to bicker more than the fourth and fifth siblings.

Su Mo said, “Alright, stop arguing.”

The two of them shut up.

Su Yu moved closer to Su Mo and asked, “Brother, is what Father said true? Do we really have to bring Su Cheng back?”

Su Mo frowned. “The two of you were eavesdropping again!”

Su Yu decisively pushed the blame to Su Qi. “It's what Second Brother wants to hear!”

Su Qi exploded. “You were the one who pulled me along!”

Su Mo said sternly, “If you argue again, I'll throw the two of you down!”

Su Mo was respectful and honest in front of Su Yuan, but in front of his younger brothers, he was a strict elder brother.

The two of them stopped arguing and stabbed each other with their eyes.

The reason why Su Mo let his two younger brothers secretly follow him was mainly that he was worried that if he did not oversee them, the two of them would accidentally say something they should not say in front of Qin Yun.

“Are you going back to the prefecture now?” he asked.

The two of them shook their heads.

Su Mo reminded, “You can follow me to the Su family, but you're not allowed to speak nonsense, especially not to reveal the purpose of our trip. Before everything is investigated, I don't want to cause unnecessary misunderstandings.”

Su Qi patted his chest. “Brother, don't worry. I definitely won't reveal anything!”

Su Yu said, “Me too!”

Su Mo knew his two younger brothers' personalities the best. They were clearly not young anymore, but they were not as calm as his fourth and fifth brothers.

It was better to leave them under his watch than for them to go out and cause trouble.

When the carriage arrived at the village road near Apricot Flower Village, a peddler carrying a burden blocked their path.

The peddler looked around, put down his burden, and bowed to the carriage. “Eldest Young Master.”

Su Qi lifted the curtain and said in surprise, “It's Big Brother's men?”

Ever since Su Yuan mentioned Su Cheng to Su Mo, Su Mo had sent his trusted aide over overnight to investigate the situation of the Su family.

It was difficult to obtain objective information if he asked directly. Therefore, this person disguised himself as a peddler and wandered around Apricot Flower Village and the neighboring villages for three days.

The Su family was famous in the surrounding villages, but they did not have a good reputation. They were the three big bullies who made people tremble in fear.

The big bully, Su Cheng, traveled the world with a butcher knife.

The fat bully, Su Daya, was lazy and promiscuous. First, she took a fancy to her cousin, Scholar Chen, and then “married” He Tongsheng from the neighboring village. However, He Tongsheng escaped on the day of the wedding, and the Su family somehow found a husband.

The villagers called him Wei Xiaolang. It was said that he was very handsome.

Finally, it was the little bully, Su Ergou. He was also a hooligan and had fought with others since he was young.

The infamy of the three of them was really innumerable.

Su Yu's expression was indescribable. “No way, Big Brother. What kind of family did Grandpa ask us to bring back?”

Su Mo also frowned.

The information he found was obviously different from what his father had brought back. In his father's eyes, the Little Su family was a warm-hearted, kind, and helpful country family. Which was the real Little Su family?

Su Mo asked about Su Cheng again.

This time, it was not much different from what his father said—the year the six-year-old Su Cheng fled from the disaster, he followed the refugees and landed near Willow Village. He suffered a lot and almost starved to death, died of illness, and was beaten to death by the refugees. In the end, he lived in Willow Village and became a cowherd.

That was a nice way of putting it. To put it bluntly, he was a beggar.

His jade pendant was picked up by the Su family. The Su family knew that it was his, but they did not return it to him. Instead, they sold it for a large sum of silver and used 10% of it to buy food to help the refugees in the village. From this, they captured the hearts of the entire village.

As the true owner of the jade pendant, Su Cheng had been despised as a bully for many years.

Su Mo was calmer than Su Yuan.

Perhaps he was more hard-hearted and did not have much pity for the common people.

He admitted that Su Cheng had led a miserable life, but before finding out the truth, he could look at Su Cheng's experience more calmly.

“How tragic!”

Su Qi thumped his chest.

Su Mo couldn't take it anymore. “You're not a child anymore!”

Su Qi: “Oh.”

“There's more… ”

The peddler hesitated.

Su Mo said, “Speak.”

The peddler had a complicated expression. “The Su family has changed a lot since Su Daya's wedding.”

“Oh?” Su Mo was interested.

The peddler continued, “Fatty Su's engagement was broken off by He Tongsheng. After that, she seemed to have changed into a different person. Not only was she industrious, but she also stopped extorting money. She didn't extort herself or let her family extort. She brought her brother to town to do business.”

“Was she selling snacks?” Su Qi asked.

“Yes, Second Young Master,” the peddler said.

“Who taught her?” Su Yu asked.

The peddler said, “Reporting to Third Young Master, I didn't find out either. It's as if Eldest Miss Su has gained many skills out of thin air. She was even taken in as a disciple by Doctor Fu. I dare to guess that her skills were taught by Doctor Fu and Old Madam Fu.”

From the complete timeline, Su Xiaoxiao did business first before getting to know Physician Fu. However, when some logic did not make sense, people would often organize and process a set of memories according to their understanding.

The peddler continued, “There's another saying. Her little husband is quite capable. There were some who suggested that her abilities were taught by her husband.”

Su Qi asked, “Is her husband really very handsome? Is he even more handsome than me?”

The peddler said awkwardly, “Uh… I didn't see him.”

After that, the peddler reported the Chen family's matter.

Su Yu said indignantly, “The Chen family is really shameless! What's that Scholar Chen's name? Such a refined scum had better not enter the capital to take the exam. Otherwise, I'll kill him!”

If not for the Su family, he would not have acknowledged them in his heart. However, as a good man, he looked down on the Chen family!

Su Mo spent a lot of effort resisting the urge to throw his two noisy brothers out of the carriage.

Su Mo understood most of it and gestured for the peddler to leave. Next, he wanted to personally meet the Su family.

The carriage drove into Apricot Flower Village and headed straight for the Su family.

The villagers were no longer surprised that the Su family had a visit from someone. However, when three handsome men got out of the carriage, it immediately caused a commotion in the village.

Su Mo looked at his two younger brothers solemnly. “I'm warning you for the last time. Don't cause trouble for me. Don't speak and shut your mouths!”

The two of them made a gesture to close their mouths.

Don't worry, Big Brother!

They would keep their mouths shut!

The door was open.

The men did business and went to the fields. Su Yu'niang brought her daughter and the three little ones to the Li family.

Su Xiaoxiao was drawing the renovation design of the shop in the central room.

“Excuse me…”

Su Mo was about to ask if Madam Su was around.

There she was.

Su Xiaoxiao had never met them in the prefecture capital, but the little fat girl's characteristics were too obvious, so it was difficult not to recognize her.

“You are…” Su Xiaoxiao looked at Su Mo and the other two strangely.

Su Mo said, “I'm Su Yuan's son. My father passed by here a few days ago and suddenly fell ill. It's all thanks to Su…”

The little fat girl was lively. Her big eyes were calm and clear. There was a hint of childishness between her eyebrows. For some reason, he could not call her Madam Su.

Su Xiaoxiao blinked. “Oh, Old Master Su's family. Are you all his sons?”

Su Mo said politely, “Yes, my name is Su Mo. They're my second brother and third brother.”

Su Qi and Su Yu crossed their arms and each had a cold expression.

Su Xiaoxiao nodded. “Why are you looking for me?”

“We…” Su Mo paused.

Her father was right. This girl was indeed different. She looked childish, but her eyes were calm, making one feel that she was not easy to deceive.

Su Qi said, “We're not here to gather information!”

Su Yu said, “That's right! I'm not here to bring you back to the capital! Even if you have our Marquis Zhenbei's jade pendant in your hands, it doesn't mean anything! My grandfather just wants to bring you back to investigate! If you're fake, we won't acknowledge you!”

Su Xiaoxiao was speechless.

Su Mo was even more dumbfounded.

Chapter 205

Su Mo wanted to beat his two younger brothers to death.

He should have tied them to the carriage and gagged them tightly!

Su Yu blinked innocently and shifted the blame. “Second Brother said it first!”

Su Qi stomped his feet. “Then I didn't say as much as you did!”

Su Mo clenched his fists. He didn't know how he had let his two brothers live until now…

“The two of you… get into the carriage and wait!”

Su Qi and Su Yu got into the carriage with aggrieved expressions.

Su Mo pressed the space between his eyebrows.

Su Xiaoxiao sized Su Mo up calmly. “So the jade pendant belongs to your family… No wonder your father had such a strange reaction.”

He asked about this and that and even asked about Father Su's birthday.

Su Xiaoxiao's reaction was a little beyond Su Mo's expectations. Ordinary people… No, not to mention ordinary people, anyone would probably not be able to maintain their composure after hearing such shocking news.

However, the little girl in front of her was calm from the beginning to the end, as if it was not a big deal for her to have a relationship with the Marquis of Zhenbei.

Did she know what it meant to be related to the Marquis of Zhenbei?

Did she not understand?

Of course, Su Xiaoxiao understood. She just had a guess on the day Su Yuan arrived that Su Yuan might know Father Su's family, but she did not expect Su Yuan to be Father Su's family.

As for why she wasn't excited, she was not used to celebrating surprises that did not come. Moreover, this might not be a happy thing.

Father Su had been missing for so many years. If he came from a humble background, everyone would not be able to eat their fill and wear warm clothes, it would be fine but what kind of family was the Marquis of Zhenbei?

In her previous life, although she was not related to the royal family, she could still be considered as having hailed from a rich family. However, she did not experience the warmth that she deserved in that family.

On the other hand, after coming here, Father Su and Su Ergou, who would rather starve themselves to feed her, gave her a feeling of home that she had never felt before.

In her heart, she had never equated a noble background with a legitimate family.

“Since you've already heard it…”

Initially, Su Mo had planned to invite their family to the capital with the excuse of doing business. He had even thought of a reason to bring Su Cheng along: She saved their father and was their benefactor. As a gesture of appreciation, he hoped to invite them to the capital to play.

Who could refuse such an invitation?

If she wasn't even tempted by this, he would use a ruthless move.

Unfortunately, his two younger brothers, who were not afraid of causing trouble, had ruined his plan.

He shouldn't have let them come.

No, with their mouths, they would only let it slip in front of Qin Yun…

Su Mo took a deep breath and calmed the chaotic thoughts in his mind.

“That's right. This jade pendant belongs to our Marquis of Zhenbei.”

He waited for her to ask, “Who is missing from the Marquis of Zhenbei's family? What's my father's relationship with your Marquis of Zhenbei?”

In the end, she only nodded indifferently.

Was that it?

He almost blurted out, “Aren't you curious?”

He held back his words.

Before confirming his identity, he actually did not intend to reveal too much.

His subordinates were loyal to him and would not lie to him, but she didn't seem to be related to the rumors at all.

“I hope you can go to the capital and cooperate with us to investigate the truth.”

“Young Master Su.” Su Xiaoxiao looked at him calmly. “It's not up to you to decide if we want to go to the capital. It's useless even if you hope. It's not whether you want to acknowledge us now, but whether we want to acknowledge you.”

This girl… was so arrogant!

Su Xiaoxiao said, “We don't want to have a bunch of fake relatives.”

Su Mo was speechless.

“Young Master Su, if there's nothing else, I have to get busy.”

With that, Su Xiaoxiao stopped looking at him and continued to draw.

Su Mo casually glanced at it.

Rich people often drew with brushes. She used charcoal heads. The drawing was neat and the lines were clear. Although it was not clear what she was drawing, it inexplicably lit up one's eyes. There was an indescribable rigor.

Su Xiaoxiao really ignored Su Mo.

“Think about it for a few days first.” Su Mo couldn't force her too much, so he got into the carriage and left.

Not long after, Father Su returned from the field.

“Daughter!”

He touched his stomach. “Is there anything good to eat?”

Su Xiaoxiao went to the kitchen to bring him a plate of pumpkin pancakes.

The pumpkin pancakes had just been fried and was still steaming. There was some red bean filling inside.

Old Master Su ate happily.

“Dad,” Su Xiaoxiao said calmly. “Have you ever thought about what family you have in the world?”

“Huh?” Old Master Su was very busy.

As Su Xiaoxiao drew, she asked, “When you wandered here back then, I was wondering if you got separated from your family. Do you want to look for them?”

Old Master Su lowered his head and took a bite of the pancake. “It's been so many years. What's there to find? You don't know how serious the disaster was back then. There's definitely no one at home.”

Su Xiaoxiao asked, “What if there is? Do you want to look for them?”

Old Master Su waved his hand.

After lunch, Physician Fu came to the Su family's house.

This was the first time Physician Fu had come to Apricot Flower Village. To be honest, Su Xiaoxiao was quite surprised.

More surprisingly… he was bruised and swollen as if someone had beaten him up.

“I accidentally fell.” Physician Fu said shamelessly.

He would never admit that he was beaten up by his biological mother.

Su Xiaoxiao: “Oh.”

Doctor Fu was about to reply, “What kind of suspicious tone is that?”

The doctor gulped down a few mouthfuls of tea and wiped the sweat on his forehead. “I'm looking for you for something serious.”

Physician Fu told Su Xiaoxiao about Su Mo's visit. “…The family from the capital seems to have a relationship with my father. His father came a few days ago, and I went out for a consultation.”

The world was so small.

The physician did not specify Su Mo's identity, but Su Xiaoxiao had already deduced it from his description. No wonder Su Yuan came to Apricot Flower Town. It turned out that he wanted to invite the Physician Fu's father to the capital to treat the Old Marquis.

The doctor sighed. “My mother said that the Old Marquis has been ill for many years. Even my father can't treat him. My medical skills are inferior to my father's, so I should not embarrass myself.”

Su Xiaoxiao asked, “Then why are you here today?”

The doctor took out a piece of paper from his pocket. “I found my father's medical case back then. It documents the Old Marquis's illness. I made a copy. Do you want me to read it to you?”

“No need. I can read.”

“Already?”

Su Xiaoxiao took the medical case from him. She learned to read quickly and could basically recognize most of the medical cases. If she really didn't understand, she could guess with the context.

However, to be cautious, she still verified it with Physician Fu.

“From the symptoms of the patients recorded by your father, it seems to be heart failure caused by lack of air in the lungs. The herbs your father prescribed are also prescriptions to nourish the air in the lungs.”

“That's right,” Physician Fu said. “However, this is a record from more than ten years ago. Now, the Old Marquis's illness might have changed. It's unknown.”

“That's right. This medical case is too outdated and can no longer be used as a basis for diagnosis…” Su Xiaoxiao glanced at him.” Do you want to go to the capital to treat the Old Marquis? ”

The doctor shook his head. “My mother is old. I'm worried about leaving her here alone. I think… your medical skills are brilliant. Perhaps you can try.”

Su Xiaoxiao finished her last stroke. “I'm not going to the capital.”

Chapter 206

After Su Xiaoxiao finished drawing the blueprint, Liu Ping returned from town.

“Are you used to living in the shop?” Su Xiaoxiao asked.

Liu Ping scratched his head. “I'm used to it! The house is very big, and there's no wind or rain. The children are all sleeping soundly.”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Then, you can live there in the future.”

“Huh?” Liu Ping was stunned.

Su Xiaoxiao asked, “Are you unwilling?”

Liu Ping hurriedly waved his hand. “No, no! It's just… that… Ah…”

Su Xiaoxiao continued, “I'm not letting you stay for nothing.”

Liu Ping nodded repeatedly. “Yes, yes, I should pay some rent…”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “I'll give you money.”

“Huh?” Liu Ping was shocked.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Someone has to watch the shop.”

“But this… I…” Liu Ping would occasionally become incoherent.

What he wanted to say was that they would be living in such a good house for nothing and should pay rent. How could they still be paid?

It was convenient to watch the shop. No, it was his job.

Su Xiaoxiao was a strange person. She seemed very calculative most of the time, but to say she was stingy, she was even more generous than those men in terms of salary.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “That's settled. You guys stay upstairs first. After the room in the backyard is renovated, you can move over and continue renovating upstairs. I'll leave the supervision to you.”

Liu Ping instantly felt a sense of mission. “Daya, don't worry. I'll definitely do a good job!”

Wei Ting had stayed outside for a long time these few days. Sometimes, when Father Su returned, he would still work alone in the fields.

Su Xiaoxiao didn't know if he was really working.

However, for a man to keep returning late, something was up.

Today, the person plowing the ground was still Yuchi Xiu, but there was another person with them.

It was a white-robed man wearing a bamboo hat and veiled hat.

“Young Master, the Old Madam knows that you left the capital. She's very angry and wants you to return to the capital immediately. In addition, on the way here, I heard another piece of news. The Third Prince has already set off secretly.”

Yuchi Xiu exploded. “What? Xiao Zhonghua left just like that? He's not coming to snatch the Commander's Seal anymore? Didn't he come to Qingzhou for the Commander's Seal? What trick is this?”

The man in white said, “Young Master… has been exposed?”

Yuchi Xiu snorted. “He's long been exposed. Xiao Zhonghua even tried to poison your young master. Fortunately, I was smart and sensed something wrong in time!”

The white-robed man said, “In that case, Young Master shouldn't continue to stay here.”

Yuchi Xiu chuckled and said, “That's right. If Xiao Zhonghua returns to the capital earlier than your young master, he will definitely expose your young master's absence from the Dragon Temple to the wretched emperor. At that time, your young master's head will probably be lost!”

Wei Ting's cultivation under the decree was a huge mistake.

Princess Hui An was deeply in love with Wei Ting and wanted to marry him. The emperor also agreed. Who would have thought that Wei Ting would resist the decree in the throne room?

Emperor Lei was furious. “You don't even like my princess. Who else in the world do you like? Could it be that you want to be a monk!”

“As you command.”

The emperor almost fell off the dragon throne.

Yuchi Xiu continued to gloat. “Aiyaya, I'm afraid your young master won't be able to leave. He became someone else's live-in son-in-law and was eaten clean. He's no longer innocent!”

The white-robed man looked at Yuchi Xiu coldly. Even through the veiled hat, one could feel his confusion, as if he was saying, “Is this guy really an assassin? Did he use his mouth to overwhelm the mission target with so much noise that he died?”

Wei Ting said, “Wait for me at the docks at noon tomorrow.”

Yuchi Xiu staggered. “What?”

Wei Ting continued, “Prepare some children's clothes.”

The man in white was silent for a moment before understanding. “Yes!”

After the white-robed man left, Wei Ting turned around and saw the three little fellows on the field looking at him.

He opened his mouth.

The three of them turned around and ran home aggrievedly.

That night, the three little fellows disappeared.

The three of them had always been sensible and never took the initiative to leave the adults' sight. If they did not say anything, they usually went next door to look for Niudan. The furthest they went was to the village entrance and would never exceed the ancient well.

Today, they grabbed a few small pancakes and left through the back door.

The family thought that they had gone to look for Niudan to show off their pancakes again.

Unexpectedly, when Su Ergou went to call them home for dinner, Niudan said that Dahu, Erhu, and Xiaohu had never been to his house.

The family went to the village to look for them. They also went to the Li family, the village head's family, Auntie Liu's family, and even the Liu family's fish pond, but there was no sign of the three of them.

Su Ergou said, “Last time, they hid behind the Su family. I'll go there to look!”

Father Su said, “I'll go up to the forest behind to take a look.”

Su Yuniang also wanted to look for them.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Someone has to stay at home. Yuniang, wait at home.”

“Alright.” Su Yuniang prayed that the three of them were just playful and would come back after playing enough.

However, after interacting with the three little fellows for so long, how could she not know their habits?

“Could it be… by someone…”

Su Yuniang did not continue.

Wei Ting's expression was cold.

He clenched his fists, and a complicated look flashed across his eyes. He turned around and disappeared into the endless night.

When the villagers heard that the little fellow was missing, they all helped to look for him.

Someone muttered, “Could they have been captured by the Su family?”

This guess was not unreasonable. The Su family had stolen Su Cheng's jade pendant back then. Now that the truth was out, the Su family had collapsed overnight. Needless to say, they hated the Su family.

It was not impossible for them to capture the children and take revenge on the Su family.

The villagers rushed into the Su family.

This time, no matter how tightly the Su family closed the door, the villagers raised their hammers and smashed it.

Mdm Fang's expression changed. “What are you doing?”

“Hand over the children!”

Su Dalang walked out and stood in front of Mdm Fang. “What children? What are you talking about!”

“Stop pretending! Hurry up and hand over Dahu, Erhu, and Xiaohu! Otherwise, you'll have it coming to you!”

The Su family was wronged.

They had been hiding at home for the past few days and only dared to sneak out in the middle of the night to pick vegetables. Not to mention catching children, they had not even seen a child!

The villagers' feces were thrown just like that. They had finally tasted what had happened to the Su family back then.

The Su family was smashed to pieces by the villagers, but they did not find Dahu, Erhu, and Xiaohu.

Yuchi Xiu had gone to investigate Xiao Zhonghua's whereabouts and was not in the village.

Wei Ting and Su Xiaoxiao entered the mountain.

“Dahu! Erhu! Xiaohu!”

Su Xiaoxiao shouted the three little ones' names.

In the past, no matter how tightly they hid and played, they would definitely run out and stick out their heads for her to pat as long as they heard her voice.

Chapter 207

The sky was getting darker, and Su Xiaoxiao's expression was getting colder.

Along the way, the two of them did not speak and searched wholeheartedly.

Not long after, Father Su and Su Ergou also entered the mountain.

To be honest, Father Su did not think that the three children would enter the mountain themselves. However, there were already people searching for them in the village, so he brought Ergou to the mountain to try their luck.

No one could guarantee that Su Yuniang's previous accident would not happen. Perhaps the three children had been kidnapped by someone.

“Split up and search. Ergou and I will go over there. Son-in-law, you and Daya go to the east.”

“Okay.”

The four of them split up.

Father Su gave Wei Ting a torch and carried the other torch to the southwest with Su Ergou.

It was too dark and the weeds were wet. Father Su fell quite hard and his hands were scratched, but he didn't say anything. He got up and continued to look for the children.

Wei Ting's eyes flickered.

The two of them found the three little fellows in a damp and dark tree hole.

There were some traces of the older children being in the tree hole. It seemed that this was not the first time children had come to this place.

If they had not experienced it personally, Su Xiaoxiao and Wei Ting would not have known that the three little fellows would actually run so far with the older children. In the depths of the forest, the brats were really bold.

It was early spring, and it was warm before turning cold. The night was especially cold.

The three little fellows shivered from the cold and snuggled together for warmth.

Dahu was in the middle, hugging his two younger brothers with his tender arms.

Although he and Xiaohu usually fought fiercely, that was at home. Outside, he would not allow his brothers to be wronged.

Only he could bully his brothers.

However, the current scene was not much better than being bullied.

“Dahu! Erhu! Xiaohu!”

Su Xiaoxiao squatted down. The tree hole was very small and adults couldn't enter, let alone a fat girl like her.

The three little ones only heard her voice and subconsciously wanted to pounce out, but soon, they heard Wei Ting's movements.

“The three of you, come out!”

The three of them shrank back in fear.

“Don't be fierce to them!” Su Xiaoxiao glared at someone.

Wei Ting's lips moved, but he did not say anything else.

Su Xiaoxiao knelt on the ground and looked into the tree hole. “Dahu, are you hungry? I made delicious food. Bring your brothers out first.”

Dahu hesitated for a moment before slowly exerting strength with his hands.

The two younger brothers looked at their older brother.

They wanted to go out, but no one moved.

Su Xiaoxiao continued, “It's dark. I'm very afraid of being alone. Can you come out first?”

Hearing that Su Xiaoxiao was afraid, the three of them subconsciously leaned forward.

However, they gritted their teeth and endured it.

The three little fellows' reaction was too abnormal.

Su Xiaoxiao asked, “Can you tell me why you're hiding here?”

The three of them shook their heads with red eyes.

Su Xiaoxiao placed her hand on the ground, her palm hurting from the branches and stones on the ground.

She was too sensitive to pain, and beads of sweat subconsciously dripped down her forehead.

“Get up!”

Wei Ting pulled them up and tore open the tree hole to pull the three brats out.

The three of them hid behind Su Xiaoxiao the moment they came out, not letting Wei Ting approach.

“Did you hit them?” Su Xiaoxiao asked Wei Ting.

Wei Ting said, “I didn't.”

Su Xiaoxiao said doubtfully, “Then why are they suddenly avoiding you?”

Wei Ting was silent.

Su Xiaoxiao looked at the three little fellows hiding behind her and grabbing her clothes, then at Wei Ting, who wanted to say something but hesitated.

After a moment, she fell silent too.

She said nothing and led the three children down the mountain.

Dahu, Erhu, and Xiaohu followed her closely.

Xiaohu accidentally fell. Wei Ting quickly reached out to help him.

Xiaohu climbed up stubbornly and quickly, silently raising his hand to wipe his tears.

Su Xiaoxiao carried Xiaohu.

On the other side, Su Cheng and Su Ergou rushed over when they heard the commotion.

“Dahu, Erhu, Xiaohu!” Su Cheng quickened his pace.

Dahu and Erhu ran towards him and plunged into his arms.

He handed the torches to Su Ergou and picked up the two little fellows.

He looked around anxiously. “Why did you come to the mountain? Let Grandpa take a look. Are you alright?”

The two of them leaned on his shoulder and shook their heads, feeling aggrieved.

Su Cheng felt the children choking. He frowned at Su Xiaoxiao and Wei Ting. “What's wrong?”

Xiaohu felt that something was wrong and buried his face in Su Xiaoxiao's clothes.

Su Xiaoxiao didn't say anything and silently carried Xiaohu down the mountain.

Su Cheng's gaze landed on Wei Ting's face.

Wei Ting's face was shrouded in the dark night. He looked at the dark sky. “Dad, it's going to rain soon. Let's go home first.”

Su Cheng was in a sorry state and had fallen a few times.

Wei Ting reached out to carry the children.

The two of them averted Wei Ting's advances.

Wei Ting said, “Grandpa fell and can't carry you.”

Su Cheng said, “I can carry them!”

The two of them hesitated and stretched out their small arms to Su Ergou.

This was the first time Su Ergou was being doted on by the little fellows.

After returning home, Su Xiaoxiao checked the three little ones carefully.

The three of them had varying degrees of abrasions and bumps on their bodies. Xiaohu was the youngest and had the most injuries. Both his knees were scraped and his palm was cut.

Erhu had bruises on his left elbow.

Dahu's forehead was swollen.

In addition, although it was not winter, there were already insects in the tree hole. The three of them were all stung.

Su Xiaoxiao took out the three yellow pills rewarded by the pharmacy last time. After crushing them, she tried them on her wound to test.

The pain instantly disappeared, and a cool feeling spread. It was much less stimulating than the golden sore medicine.

It seemed that this medicine could not only be taken internally but also applied externally.

She applied it to the children too.

From the beginning to the end, the three little ones did not say a word. Their eyes were red and they did not make a sound even when they cried.

After all, they were tired. The three of them fell asleep in great grievance.

Su Xiaoxiao went to treat Su Cheng's superficial injuries.

At night, she closed her eyes and lay quietly beside the three children.

Wei Ting opened the cabinet to pack his things, but she pretended not to hear him.

Early the next morning, Su Xiaoxiao made breakfast.

It was a sumptuous meal. There was braised wheat, dumplings, winter melon meatball soup, red bean barley porridge, dried shrimp steamed eggs, and a few vegetables picked from the Li family's land.

The dining table was very quiet.

Su Yuniang scooped soup for the three little ones.

“Have some too.” She scooped a bowl for Su Xiaoxiao.

Su Xiaoxiao picked up the soup bowl and looked at the three sticky meatballs inside. She said softly, “Dad, if, I mean if…”

Before she could finish, Su Cheng stood up and returned to his room without looking back.

Su Yuniang looked at the calm Su Xiaoxiao and then at Su Cheng, who left. She sighed softly.

Suddenly, Su Cheng strode out.

He had a bag in his hand.

Su Xiaoxiao looked at him blankly.

Su Cheng said, “Aren't you going to the capital? Don't just stand there! Hurry up and eat! The boat will leave later!”

Su Xiaoxiao was stunned.

Su Cheng said, “My son-in-law wants to bring us to the capital. I told you yesterday. Don't you know? Don't tell me you haven't packed your things?”

“Packed,” Wei Ting said.

Su Xiaoxiao leaned back and looked at the table in the east room.

There were two bags on it.

He packed all night.

Not only his items but also… hers.

Chapter 208

After breakfast, Su Xiaoxiao went to the kitchen to collect the bowls.

She hummed a tune as she swiped.

Su Yuniang walked over with the little darling who had been in her arms for more than a month and leaned against the door frame.

The little darling blew milk bubbles leisurely.

Su Yuniang looked at her daughter dotingly and looked at Su Xiaoxiao unhappily. “Are you quite happy to be able to go to the capital?”

Su Xiaoxiao washed the pot and raised her eyebrows. “Am I?”

Su Yuniang snorted. “Why not? I think you're about to go to heaven!”

Su Xiaoxiao blinked and said seriously, “I'm not very happy. It's so-so.”

“Huh.”

It would be strange if she believed Su Xiaoxiao!

Su Yuniang was not one of the women in the village who did not dare to travel far. She also yearned for the world outside. She only hated herself for not being a man. Otherwise, she would have ventured out long ago.

Therefore, she could empathize with Su Xiaoxiao.

“Yuniang, do you want to go with me?” Su Xiaoxiao asked.

Su Yuniang looked down at the little fellow in her arms who was blowing milk bubbles at her. “If I go, who will take care of this little fellow?”

Su Xiaoxiao nodded. “Looks like you still remember that you're a mother.”

Su Yuniang said coldly, “Su Daya, are you itching for a beating?”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Who gave her daughter to Sister Zhao every other day?”

Su Yuniang choked.

After Su Yuniang tasted the sweetness of being a hands-off shopkeeper, Su Yuniang's daughter was about to become a frequent guest of the Li family.

Although the two of them bickered, they knew in their hearts that Su Yuniang wanted to go to the capital to explore the wider world. However, her daughter was too young for her to leave.

She couldn't let her baby accompany her day and night, unlike Su Xiaoxiao in her previous life who could take a plane and high-speed rail.

In ancient times, carriages could really skin people alive in a month.

“When she is a little older,” Su Yuniang said.

“Alright.” Su Xiaoxiao nodded. She thought of something and sighed wistfully. “The business of the shop…”

Su Yuniang interrupted a certain chubby lass. “I can't manage your business!”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Okay.”

“Here.”

Su Yuniang placed a money bag on the stove.

Su Xiaoxiao picked it up and weighed it. “Silver? That much?”

“I'm lending you money!” Su Yuniang said calmly. “I know that Wei Ting treats you well, and I know that he doesn't look like someone who lacks money. However, we women have to have some self-respect. If anything happens, we can stand tall.”

The reason why Su Yuniang could be so unyielding in the Zheng family was that she could earn money. The Zheng family treated her like the God of Fortune.

She understood that Su Daya was more capable than her, but Wei Ting was clearly not from a small family like the Zheng family.

To put it bluntly, Su Yuniang was worried that Su Xiaoxiao would be bullied in the capital.

Although she was most likely worried for nothing. After all, it had always been this girl who bullied others.

Su Xiaoxiao held the money bag, her heart burning.

“Yuniang.”

“What?”

“Are you interested in investing in Su Ji?”

Su Yuniang had done a lot of accounting with Su Xiaoxiao. She understood what it meant to invest.

She snorted. “Who cares about your business!”

Even so, she returned to the house to pack her things and moved to town that night.

The three little ones swept away the haze from yesterday and happily shook their heads in the backyard. Then, the three of them valiantly led the foal to say goodbye to Niudan and their friends in the village.

They were finally going to send away three little bullies. Their friends heaved a sigh of relief!

Su Xiaoxiao went to Spring Willow Lane to see Physician Fu.

“You… have decided to go for the consultation?”

Physician Fu was stunned.

Su Xiaoxiao nodded. “Yes, I've decided. I came to tell you.”

Physician Fu smiled. “Good, good, that's great! If you go, there should be hope for the Old Marquis' illness.”

Su Xiaoxiao paused and asked, “What kind of person is the Old Marquis you mentioned?”

Physician Fu recalled, “Actually, I haven't seen the Old Marquis much. I only followed my father to the Marquis's Estate a few times when I was young. In my impression… the Old Marquis is a serious person. There aren't many people my father admired in his life. Old Marquis Su is one of them.”

Su Xiaoxiao had a preliminary impression of this old man.

Thinking of something, Physician Fu asked, “However, why did you suddenly change your mind?”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Oh, I want to go to the capital to take a look.”

Physician Fu did not suspect anything. “It's good to go out and see the world. I saw it long ago. You're not an ordinary woman. You might have some great accomplishments in the capital.”

The two of them chatted about Old Marquis Su's condition. Physician Fu dug out all the diagnoses left behind by his father, hoping to help Su Xiaoxiao.

After Su Xiaoxiao left, Physician Fu gently closed the courtyard door and sighed.

He composed himself and walked towards the central room with a calm expression.

Before he could step in, a bag smashed at him!

He was shocked and was forced to catch it.

“Mother?”

He stared dumbfounded at Aunt Fu, who had thrown a bag at him.

Aunt Fu said coldly, “Go if you want!”

Physician Fu lowered his head. “I-I won't go. What if I go… The capital is so far. It's not like I can return in two to three days…”

Aunt Fu said, “If you're not going, I'll go.”

“What?”

Physician Fu was puzzled when a carriage stopped at the door.

The young coachman walked over with a smile and helped Aunt Fu into the carriage.

Physician Fu said in confusion, “Mother, where are you going?”

The coachman smiled and said, “Grandmaster Hui Jue invited Old Madam Fu to stay in the nunnery for a few days.”

Fu Langzhong's eyes suddenly teared up. “Mother…”

In Apricot Flower Village, Father Su was also saying goodbye to the villagers.

“That's right. I'm going on a long trip.”

“The prefecture capital? How can that be called a long trip? Who are you looking down on? You can reach it in a blink of an eye. You can't even be bothered to invite me!”

“Yes, it's the capital.”

“Who will bring me there? My son-in-law!”

“How? By carriage! Eight horses! What? Didn't you see? They're waiting in town. The village road is too narrow. Eight horses can't cross.”

Father Su stood under the old locust tree at the entrance of the village and placed his hands on his hips, patiently bragging.

Zhu Zhu said, “Mr. Wei is from the capital?”

The villagers' jaws dropped.

Someone in the capital had become the son-in-law of a fat girl from the countryside. What kind of dogshit luck did the Su family have?

Chapter 209

The news that Daya's family was going to the capital quickly spread to the Su family.

Old Su's days have been tragic. On the one hand, he had to suffer the disdain and anger of the villagers, and on the other hand, he had to face the risk of returning the land under his name.

They thought that the Su family must be overjoyed. Although they did not come to their house to mock them, they must have held their heads high behind their backs.

Until today.

When they heard that the Su family was about to go to the capital, they suddenly realized something.

It was not that Daya's family wanted to establish a persona, but that they had never taken Old Su's family seriously.

Old Su's family thought that they were competitors and enemies, but who knew that Daya's family did not even treat them as farts?

They were like clowns, constantly guessing the attitude and thoughts of Daya's family…

And Daya's family was no longer the fish and frog in this pond.

Or rather, it was just a stranded mythological giant bird from the beginning.

Old Master Su's blood surged and he collapsed!

Su Dalang and Su Erlang's expressions changed. “Grandpa!”

Su Xiaoxiao found Manager Sun and told him about her entering the capital. “I'll leave the shop to you and Yuniang.”

Manager Sun said, “There won't be any trouble in the shop. Rest assured in the capital.”

Su Xiaoxiao thought about it carefully. There was indeed nothing that could not be resolved in business.

The shop was decided, and Liu Ping and Little Wu moved over. The blueprint for the renovation was confirmed, and Little Madam Zhao and Li Xiaoyong were getting skilled …

She did not deliberately plan anything, but it seemed that she had already made sufficient preparations in the lead-up to this day.

Su Xiaoxiao came out of the shop and saw Physician Fu squatting on the ground with his bag and drawing circles.

Physician Fu turned around and saw her. He stood up and coughed lightly. “My mother… asked me to go to the capital to treat the Old Marquis.”

Su Xiaoxiao said casually, “That's really much easier…”

Physician Fu was speechless.

East Arrival Inn was the largest inn in Apricot Flower Town. It was said that it was opened by the Qi family. The business was booming and it was difficult to obtain a single room.

However, to the noble young masters of the capital, it was no different from sleeping in their own woodshed.

Su Yu felt so disgusted that he had nowhere to stand. “It's so tattered. The blanket is moldy! Brother, if I don't go back soon, I'm going to mold!”

Su Mo calmly took a sip of tea. “You wanted to follow me, but now you're complaining?”

Su Yu looked aggrieved. “Wuwu, I regret it…”

The coachman reported from outside, “Eldest Young Master, Physician Fu requests an audience!”

Physician Fu came over with Su Xiaoxiao.

The three brothers were surprised to see her.

They were surprised that she had come up too. However, they remembered that she seemed to be Physician Fu's disciple.

Physician Fu went straight to the point. “I agree to go to the capital for a house call, but let me make it clear first. The Old Marquis has been suffering from a chronic illness for many years. I can only try my best. I can't guarantee that I can treat him.”

“Yes,” Su Mo said. “Miss Su is going too?”

Physician Fu said seriously, “She's my disciple, so, of course, she has to go. She hasn't seen such a difficult illness before. I can take the opportunity to teach her.”

“Okay.” Regardless of whether the little girl was really convinced by Physician Fu, Su Mo only wanted this result. The process was not important.

“When can we set off?” Su Mo asked.

It was not appropriate to delay his grandfather's condition. The earlier they could get there, the better.

“We can set off immediately,” Su Xiaoxiao answered. “We're not going with you.”

Su Yu was surprised. “What?”

Su Xiaoxiao said calmly, “The consultation fee is 2,000 taels. You have to pay a 30% deposit first.”

Su Yu stuttered in shock. “2,000 taels! You're even more expensive than the Imperial Physician! I think you're addicted to extorting money!”

“Then find someone else.” Su Xiaoxiao turned around and left.

Physician Fu did not hesitate and followed.

Su Yu's eyes widened. “Which one of them is the master?”

Su Mo frowned. “Alright, I promise you.”

Su Xiaoxiao continued, “You will prepare the pass.”

Su Mo took off a token from his waist and threw it to her. “Take this. There's no need for a pass.”

Su Xiaoxiao took it backhandedly, stunning Su Mo.

Su Xiaoxiao said calmly, “See you in the capital.”

Wei Ting went to the dock first. The man in white had already prepared a black boat.

Yuchi Xiu returned after checking the news. “Sir, Xiao Zhonghua is returning to the capital from Qingzhou Pass. There's also a waterway there that's especially used for salt transport by the Imperial Court. It's much faster than ordinary waterways. We have to hurry. We can't let him return to the capital first.”

The man in white asked, “Why didn't he come to assassinate Young Master?”

Yuchi Xiu said angrily, “If you ask me, who should I ask?”

The man in white said, “I didn't ask you.”

Yuchi Xiu was speechless.

This was also what Wei Ting was puzzled about. It was not like Xiao Zhonghua to give up on assassinating him. It was not that Xiao Zhonghua wanted to kill him, but the Commander's Seal was still in his hand.

Yet Xiao Zhonghua actually left just like that?

What happened to make Xiao Zhonghua change his plan?

Yuchi Xiu looked left and right. “Sir, where are the three young masters?”

Wei Ting said, “They'll be here soon.”

When they found out that Su Xiaoxiao was also going to the capital, the three brats were furious.

Xiaohu stuffed the bag into Wei Ting's arms and waved at him. “You can leave!”

“Who is sending them over…” Yuchi Xiu realized something and suddenly gasped. “No way? No way? Are you intending to bring that girl to the capital? Do you really treat her as your wife? The two of you aren't a real couple! Take this opportunity to shake her off! Don't tell me you can't leave her!”

Wei Ting said coldly, “It's the children who can't leave her.”

Yuchi Xiu gave him a sideways glance. “Is that so…”

At this moment, Liu Ping drove the donkey cart over.

The donkey was especially irritable today. The moment it arrived, it kicked Yuchi Xiu's bag into the water.

Yuchi Xiu muttered, “What an annoying donkey!”

Wei Ting looked at the empty cart and then at Liu Ping. “Where… where are they?”

Liu Ping said, “Daya asked me to tell you that they will leave first. You can head back yourself.”

Wei Ting was speechless.

Yuchi Xiu was speechless.

The man in white was speechless.

After Liu Ping left, Yuchi Xiu slapped his thigh and laughed wildly. “Lord! That girl dumped you! She doesn't want you anymore! She even kidnapped your sons! She went to the capital herself! Hahahahaha…”

Bang!

Yuchi Xiu fell into the water…

Wei Ting gritted his teeth.

Su Daya!

Su Xiaoxiao, who was being “thought about” by Wei Ting, was already in the carriage heading to the capital.

Su Mo had prepared three carriages. They were spacious and comfortable.

Father Su, Su Ergou, and Physician Fu were in one, Su Xiaoxiao and the three little ones in another, and the month-old foal was in the last carriage.

She knew that she was not in his original plan to return to the capital.

“Mother! What is that?”

Xiaohu pointed out the window.

Su Xiaoxiao smiled. “A man, sometimes known as a pig trotter.”

Xiaohu tilted his head. “But it doesn't look delicious.”

Chapter 210

Su Xiaoxiao set off early in February. After a month of long journey, she arrived at the capital in March.

Along the way, they saw many rich cities. However, when they reached the capital where the emperor lived, they could not help but sigh. The city walls of the capital were really tall, majestic, and magnificent!

The guards at the door were wearing thick armor and holding spears with dignified expressions.

Su Ergou often jumped across the two carriages repeatedly. Now, he was in Su Xiaoxiao's carriage.

He lifted the curtain and looked at the crowd queuing up to enter the city. He cried out in shock, “Sister! There are so many people!”

The three little ones also squeezed their heads through the carriage window and blinked their big eyes, sizing them up curiously

It would be a lie to say that it was not hard for them to travel for days. Even a tough man like Father Su was about to lie flat. Su Ergou had also fallen sick once along the way. Other than losing a little weight, the three little ones did not feel any other discomfort.

The three of them grabbed the milk bottle and drank milk.

Su Xiaoxiao nodded to herself. “Oh, the milk powder is not bad. I'll get more from the pharmacy next time.”

Dahu was the first to finish his.

Then, he shot his two brothers a dangerous look.

Erhu and Xiaohu hurriedly pounced into Su Xiaoxiao's arms, wary of their brother robbing their milk bottles.

When it was their turn, the carriage was stopped by the guards.

The three coachmen were sent by Su Mo and the carriage. They were from the capital and showed their travel passes.

The guard said seriously, “Get down from the carriage!”

Su Xiaoxiao opened the curtain and gently reached out with her fair wrist, handing the guard a token that was suffused with a cold black light.

The guard seemed to know the token of the Marquis of Zhenbei and his attitude instantly became respectful. “The carriage needs to be checked. Please forgive me.”

Su Xiaoxiao understood and carried the three little fellows out of the carriage.

The triplets were too eye-catching. Not only were they cute, but they also drank from their small milk bottles. The passersby were bowled over by their cuteness.

Even the guard who was doing a routine inspection could not help but take a few more glances at the three little ones.

After checking the carriages and not finding anything suspicious, the guard let the three carriages go.

After entering the capital, Su Ergou's exclamations never stopped.

“Sister! Look! What a tall building!”

“That's the tower.”

“Huh? Oh.”

Xiaohu said, “Tower.”

Erhu said, “A tall tower.”

Dahu said, “Not as tall as me.”

The capital was really too big. The group entered the city in the morning and only settled down in the evening.

After confirming that they had settled down, the coachman went to the Marquis Mansion to report.

Su Mo and Qin Yun arrived in the capital yesterday. Su Yuan, Su Qi, and the others were still on their way back to the capital. They would probably arrive in another two to three days.

The lead coachman saw Su Mo in Tingfeng Courtyard.

“Eldest Young Master.” He cupped his hands and bowed.

“Are they here?” Su Mo asked.

“They are here,” said the coachman.

“Where is she?” Su Mo looked at the empty courtyard.

The coachman said, “They refuse to stay at the Marquis Mansion.”

Su Mo had long expected that with the girl's personality, she would most likely not accept the arrangements to stay in the Marquis's Mansion. He was not surprised by this.

“Did they go to Changliu Street?”

There was a small house under his name on Changliu Street. If she refused to come to the Duke Mansion, the coachman would bring them there to stay.

The coachman shook his head again. “No, they went to Pear Blossom Lane.”

“The Pear Blossom Lane on Scholar Street?” Su Mo pondered for a moment. “Why did they go there?”

Pear Blossom Lane was a rare quiet area in the bustling capital. The east and west sides of the street were connected to the noisy streets. After walking in, one would seem to have left the dust of the streets behind.

Su Xiaoxiao came to a house and gently knocked on the closed door.

Creak—

The door opened from the inside.

A slightly hunched servant stuck his head out and looked at Su Xiaoxiao and the others with a strange expression.

Su Xiaoxiao took out a letter and handed it to him.

The sky was a little dark, and the servant's eyes did not seem to be working well. He took the letter and closed the courtyard door first. He inserted the bolt and went to read the letter under the oil lamp in the house.

When he came over again, he opened the courtyard door wide and politely welcomed them in.

“You…”

Su Xiaoxiao looked at him.

He gestured.

He was a mute slave and could not speak.

Father Su brought his luggage in and looked at the clean and elegant courtyard. He asked, “Daughter, whose house is this?”

“Grandmaster Hui Jue's,” Su Xiaoxiao said.

The last time she visited Grandmaster Hui Jue, she had given her a letter before she left. She said that if she changed her mind in the future and was willing to go to the capital, she could stay in her old residence.

The old friend that Grandmaster Hui Jue mentioned was probably the Old Marquis of the Marquis of Zhenbei.

At that time, she had already made it clear that she would not go to the capital for a house call.

However, Grandmaster Hui Jue was still prepared for this, as if she had expected her to come to the capital in the end.

“By the way, help me take a look at Zhong Shan. It's not easy for him to guard a big house alone…”

These were Grandmaster Hui Jue's exact words.

Therefore, Su Xiaoxiao knew his name.

He was actually not even 50 years old, but he looked a little old.

“Thank you, Uncle Zhong.”

After Su Xiaoxiao finished speaking, Zhong Shan clearly paused.

He looked at Su Xiaoxiao in a daze before quickly lowering his head and helping to move their luggage in.

This was a two-in-one courtyard. It was different from the layout of houses in the countryside. Su Ergou brought the three little ones around. It was extremely rare.

Su Cheng, Su Ergou, and Physician Fu lived in the rooms in the front, while Su Xiaoxiao and the three little ones lived in a room in the second courtyard.

Zhong Shan did not live here. He only came to clean every day, coming in the morning and leaving at night.

After handing the key to Su Xiaoxiao, Zhong Shan returned.

The courtyard and rooms were very clean, and the furniture and bedding were ready-made. They could move in rightaway after entering. However, Zhong Shan did not set up a fire in the courtyard, so there was nothing to eat in the kitchen.

Fortunately, this was the capital and there were many shops nearby.

“Dad, I'll go out and buy some dinner. What do you want to eat?”

Su Cheng waved his hand. “There's no need. Let's go together. I've been cooped up in the carriage for the entire day. It's time to walk around.”

“Physician Fu, what about you?” Su Xiaoxiao asked.

Physician Fu said, “I'll go take a walk too.”

Su Xiaoxiao looked at Su Ergou and the three little ones playing in the courtyard. “Can you still walk?”

Xiaohu patted his chest with both hands and said in a childish voice, “Xiaohu has to move! Xiaohu has to move!”

He was the one who shouted the most. He was also the one who stretched out his arm to Father Su after taking two steps.

This time, Erhu chose to be a happy salted fish with his brother.

“Uncle, carry.”

Su Ergou picked Erhu up.

In the end, only the lonely Dahu was left running in front.

After leaving the alley and walking south, there were many snack stalls and restaurants.

Father Su was not too picky about food and usually let Su Xiaoxiao decide.

However, today, he stopped at an old noodle shop.

He looked up at the signboard that had long lost its paint. In a daze, he had the illusion that he had been here.

Chapter 211

“Dad, do you want to eat noodles?”

Su Xiaoxiao's voice pulled Father Su back to his senses.

He looked at Xiaohu in his arms, then at Erhu, who was being carried by Su Ergou, and Dahu, who was being held by Su Xiaoxiao. “What do you want to eat?”

“Noodles,” Xiaohu said.

Erhu and Dahu had no objections.

Physician Fu and Su Ergou only needed to fill their stomachs. One of them was so tired that he had no taste buds, and the other couldn't wait to eat.

The group entered the noodle shop and found a big table facing the street in the lobby to sit down at.

The waiter came over and asked them what they wanted to eat.

Su Xiaoxiao asked him to recommend one or two.

The waiter was very enthusiastic. “From your accents, you just came from elsewhere, right? Then you have to try our braised noodles! In addition, we've been selling our tofu pudding for decades. You can try them.”

When the salted tofu pudding was served, Su Xiaoxiao finally understood why the waiter only recommended two bowls of tofu pudding.

It was salty and covered in sauce. Ordinary people were not used to it.

The three little ones ate till they looked like various types of emojis.

The only one who was working on the tofu pudding was Father Su.

“Dad, don't you think this tofu pudding tastes bad?” Su Ergou asked.

“I don't think so,” Father Su said.

“Then, then I'll give you this bowl too.” Su Ergou pushed his bowl to his biological father.

Father Su took it without a word and ate it in a few mouthfuls.

Su Ergou was stunned.

Su Xiaoxiao glanced at Father Su and did not say anything.

Su Xiaoxiao did not reveal to her family that Su Mo had come looking for her.

After dinner, Su Xiaoxiao went to the counter to settle the bill.

A bowl of braised noodles in the capital was actually sold for 30 copper coins a bowl. A bowl of tofu pudding cost eight copper coins. They ate a total of seven bowls of braised noodles, and two bowls of tofu pudding, which cost more than 200 copper coins.

As expected of the capital. The prices were really high.

On the way back, Xiaohu and Erhu fell asleep in Father Su and Su Ergou's arms respectively.

Dahu persisted until he reached the door of the house before Su Xiaoxiao carried the little guy. His eyelids darkened, and his head tilted to the side. He fell asleep too.

Everyone was exhausted along the way and returned to their rooms to rest.

Su Xiaoxiao placed the three little ones on the bed. The capital was colder than Qingzhou. Even though it was March, the night was still very cold.

She covered the three of them with the blanket and planned to boil some water in the kitchen.

The moment she entered the backyard, she saw Su Cheng sitting on the small stool, looking up at the moon… in a daze.

“Dad?”

Su Xiaoxiao called him.

Su Cheng came back to his senses. “Are the children asleep?”

“They're asleep.” Su Xiaoxiao walked over. “What are you looking at?”

Su Cheng said, “Nothing. It's just… I can't sleep.”

He scooped up another stool and let Su Xiaoxiao sit.

Su Xiaoxiao sat down and asked, “Are you not used to being in the capital?”

“Well…” Su Cheng frowned and thought for a moment.” Maybe… ”

Ever since he ate the bowl of salted tofu pudding, he had a strange feeling.

Father Su looked at the big fatty who had clearly lost weight again… No, she was now a small fatty.

“It's getting late. Go to sleep. Don't you have to wake up early tomorrow to treat someone?”

Su Xiaoxiao didn't hide the fact that she would be going to make a house call at Su Yuan's family. After all, Physician Fu was around.

“Dad, go to sleep too,” she said.

Su Cheng wanted to sit for a while longer, but he did not want his daughter to worry, so he returned to his room to lie down.

He rarely dreamed.

This time, for some reason, he dreamed of being chased in an assassination all night.

Physician Fu woke up early before dawn.

He thought that he was early. The moment he entered the backyard, Su Xiaoxiao was already feeding the foal in the courtyard.

The foal was two months old and had already started to eat some grass.

“Morning,” Su Xiaoxiao greeted. “I bought steamed buns. They're hot in the pot.”

She had actually bought breakfast early? When did she wake up? The corners of Physician Fu's mouth twitched fiercely. What was that saying about people being more talented and hardworking than you? This was it.

After breakfast, the Su family's carriage arrived.

Su Xiaoxiao called Su Ergou up and got into the carriage with Physician Fu.

“I remember that there used to be a medicine shop there.” Physician Fu pointed at a pavilion on the street and said, “The medicinal herbs were cheap and good. My father often brings me to this shop to buy medicine.”

Su Xiaoxiao looked at the plaque on the attic: Spring Breeze Pavilion.

The medicine shop had become a brothel.

Things had changed.

“What a big change,” Physician Fu sighed. “I can't even name some new streets.”

“When did you leave the capital?” Su Xiaoxiao asked.

“20 years ago,” Physician Fu said. “I've been away for too long. I really don't know it anymore when I come back.”

He did not recognize it after only 20 years. What about 30 years?

30 years ago, Su Cheng was only a six-year-old child. What did he remember?

The carriage entered the Marquis Estate from the side door.

Su Mo was already waiting in the reception hall.

In this wave of teams returning to the capital, Su Mo and Qin Yun were the earliest to arrive. There was no other reason. In order to prevent his two brothers, who did not know what to say, from accidentally revealing Su Cheng's matter to Qin Yun, he could only bring Qin Yun along.

“Eldest Young Master, They are here.”

The servant reported.

Su Mo raised his hand and the servant invited her in.

Physician Fu did not change much, but when Su Mo's gaze landed on Su Xiaoxiao, he almost did not recognize her.

What happened on the way?

Why had this girl lost so much weight?

Of course, compared to those rich young ladies in the capital who would rather starve to maintain their figures, she was still a little fatty.

“You…”

Su Mo opened his mouth.

Su Xiaoxiao asked, “Where's the patient?”

Su Xiaoxiao was as straightforward as a sharp knife.

Su Mo swallowed his question.

He couldn't tell if Su Xiaoxiao really didn't want to have anything to do with the Marquis Mansion or if she was pretending to be noble.

He said seriously, “Follow me.”

Su Mo personally brought Physician Fu and Su Xiaoxiao to the Old Marquis's courtyard.

Many physicians had come to treat the Old Marquis. The servants were already used to it.

However, the doctor this time seemed to be different from before.

His clothes were a little plain, and he did not look like a famous physician from an aristocratic family. In addition, there was actually a little fat girl.

Was she an assistant?

Or was she a maidservant?

However, this girl did not look timid at all. Her eyebrows were cold and arrogant, and she was more imposing and dignified than the middle-aged doctor.

The servants secretly sized up Su Xiaoxiao. Su Mo glanced over and everyone lowered their heads.

The three of them came to the Old Marquis's room.

The servant guarding the door bowed to Su Mo. “Eldest Young Master.”

Su Mo said, “Is Grandpa awake?”

The servant shook his head.

Su Mo's expression turned solemn as he said to Physician Fu, “Half a month ago, my grandfather's condition suddenly worsened… Are you confident?”

Physician Fu glanced at Su Xiaoxiao calmly and cleared his throat. “Well… we have to see the Old Marquis before coming to a conclusion.”

Su Mo looked at the calm Physician Fu and then at the expressionless Su Xiaoxiao. He nodded at the servant.

The servant pushed open the door and invited Physician Fu into the room.

Su Xiaoxiao paused and walked into the room.

Chapter 212

When Su Mo was about to enter, he was stopped by Su Xiaoxiao.

“Please wait outside, Young Master Su.”

Su Mo glanced at Physician Fu. Clearly, he thought this was Physician Fu's intention.

Physician Fu muttered in his head, “It's useless to look at me. I'm just a teacher in name. I came to learn…”

But he said calmly, “That's right. When I practice medicine, I don't like anyone disturbing me.”

Heavens, he actually spoke to the future heir of the Marquis of Zhenbei like this. Could he walk out of the capital alive…

Su Mo retracted his foot and said to Physician Fu, “Then, I'll have to trouble Doctor Fu.”

Physician Fu broke out in cold sweat.

He was scared to death…

Su Xiaoxiao closed the door and bolted it.

Su Mo looked at the closed door without blinking. He suppressed the anxiety in his heart and waited silently.

The servant at the side was puzzled. Even the Imperial Physician was not so arrogant as to reject his young master.

The room was filled with a thick medicinal fragrance. The doors and windows were closed, and the smell could not be dissipated. It was so stuffy that one felt a little dizzy.

Su Xiaoxiao opened the window.

Physician Fu said, “Can the Old Marquis take the wind? The capital is still very cold.”

Su Xiaoxiao took a pole and pressed it against the window. “We have to maintain the air circulation in the ward. A little breeze is fine.”

The curtain of the Luohan bed was also lowered. It was so tightly covered that one would be suffocated even if she was not sick.

Su Xiaoxiao picked up the veil and hung it up with a tent hook.

Physician Fu came over to help hang the other half of the veil.

A thin and old sickly face entered their vision.

Physician Fu had seen the Old Marquis when he was young. Although he had only seen him a few times, the mighty and burly Marquis of Zhenbei had left a deep impression on him.

Who would have thought that in just twenty years, the First-grade Martial Lord who had casually beheaded the enemy king and defended the northern territory would actually fall to such a withered appearance?

A great sadness surged in Physician Fu's heart.

Men did not cry easily, but perhaps it was because they had not experienced sadness.

Physician Fu's eyes suddenly turned red. “How did it become like this… How did it become like this…”

Su Xiaoxiao couldn't relate to Physician Fu's emotions. However, from a doctor's point of view, this patient had indeed suffered a lot of illness.

When he was young, he did not take good care of his body. He suffered countless light injuries and old injuries. He was even repeatedly torn and seriously injured in the same areas. After healing, extremely ugly scars remained.

Some injuries would leave aftereffects. They tortured his body repeatedly on countless cold nights.

These were injuries. He also had an illness.

It was impossible to imagine how it was to have a body that was riddled with holes.

Su Xiaoxiao calmly took the patient's pulse and took out a stethoscope from the small medicine box Liu Ping had made for her. She listen to his heart and lungs.

His heart was arrhythmic.

It matched the pulse.

She took out the blood pressure gauge again, rolled up the patient's sleeve, and took his blood pressure.

His blood pressure was a little low.

Su Xiaoxiao opened his eyelids with her fingers and checked the changes in his pupils with a small flashlight.

The pupils were so large that the cornea reflection was almost invisible, and the reflection of light had disappeared.

The patient's condition was between a moderate and serious coma. If she did not intervene, the brain stem reaction would completely disappear. That would be a serious coma. There might be even be respiratory failure, heart stop, or even brain death.

Su Xiaoxiao looked at his fingers again.

Su Xiaoxiao's calm medical practice pulled Physician Fu out of his suppressed and sorrowful emotions.

He wiped his tears, pulled himself together, and asked, “Is there anything I can help with?”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Continue to take the patient's blood pressure two to three times in fifteen minutes.”

“Okay.” Physician Fu came to the bed and took the blood pressure gauge.

Su Xiaoxiao opened the door and walked out.

Seeing her come out, Su Mo hurriedly asked, “How's my grandfather?”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Before answering you, I want to know the patient's diet and living conditions.”

Su Mo took a deep breath and nodded patiently. He said to the servant at the side, “Who took care of Grandpa these days?”

“It was me,” the servant said.

Su Xiaoxiao asked about the patient's habits, and the servant answered truthfully.

The Old Marquis loved to drink. Those who licked blood ate meat and drank wine in big bowls to satiate themselves. The Imperial Physician had once reminded the Old Marquis that alcohol was harmful to the body.

The Old Marquis did not listen to advice and continued to drink.

It was not until half a year ago that the Old Marquis could not take it anymore and quit drinking.

He continued to consume meat.

Su Xiaoxiao nodded and said, “When was the last time the patient ate?”

The servant said, “Yesterday afternoon, He ate two mouthfuls of porridge. He hasn't eaten a single drop of rice since.”

“How long has he been unconscious? Be more specific,” Su Xiaoxiao said.

“This…” The servant scratched his head.

Su Mo said, “I came to look for Grandpa last night and wanted him to eat something. Grandpa said that he couldn't eat. Then he fell asleep and didn't wake up again in the morning.”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “So you don't know when he passed out?”

The servant lowered his head. “I'm useless.”

A patient becoming unconscious at night was the easiest to neglect. It was not this servant's fault.

“Have you seen nausea, vomiting, cough, and other symptoms recently?”

“Yes, yes!” the servant said.

“How long has it been?” Su Xiaoxiao asked.

The servant replied, “It started last winter.”

Su Mo frowned. “Why haven't I heard of it?”

The servant lowered his head. “The Old Marquis hid it and didn't allow me to say it. He couldn't take it anymore last month and invited the Imperial Physician over. The Imperial Physician gave him a prescription and it was better. Who would have thought that his condition would suddenly worsen half a month ago?”

Su Xiaoxiao continued, “Is there angina?”

“This… I'm not sure. The Old Marquis is very strong…”

Su Xiaoxiao understood what he meant. The Old Marquis was someone who didn't groan even when he was in pain.

Su Xiaoxiao already had a deduction in her heart, but she still needed to confirm it further.

She said to Su Mo, “Your grandfather's illness still needs to be diagnosed, but you said that he suddenly worsened half a month ago. I found out the reason.”

“What is it?” Su Mo asked.

“He was poisoned,” Su Xiaoxiao said seriously.

Su Mo's expression changed.

Su Xiaoxiao continued, “I'm not sure what poison it is, but your grandfather does have symptoms of poisoning.”

Su Mo held his breath. “Can, can you undo it?”

“I'll try.”

With that, Su Xiaoxiao entered the house and closed the door again.

Su Mo clenched his fists.

His grandfather was actually poisoned…

“Was the Old Marquis really poisoned? What poison?” Physician Fu asked.

“I don't know,” Su Xiaoxiao said honestly.

She did not know much about ancient poisons, so she really could not tell what kind of poison the Old Marquis had been poisoned with.

Physician Fu was stunned. “I wonder what poison it is… How can it be cured?”

Su Xiaoxiao glanced at the bottle of Bezoar Detox Pills in the small medicine box.

Chapter 213

It was clearly a third-rate product, but it could be consumed internally and applied externally to treat injuries. On the way here, Su Ergou had eaten randomly, suffered from food poisoning, vomited, and had diarrhea. He had become well after taking this medicine.

She decided to give it a try with the patient.

Before feeding the medicine, she took two tubes of intravenous blood from the patient.

Physician Fu had followed her for so long and was already used to her strange actions.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “I'll go to the side room for a while. Continue monitoring the patient's blood pressure.”

Physician Fu agreed. “Aye, okay.”

Entering the side room was a smokescreen. The place she really wanted to enter was the pharmacy.

The base pharmacy was fully equipped with a laboratory.

Su Xiaoxiao had almost figured out the temperament of the pharmacy. She could usually enter in times of emergency. In addition, she could have a chance to enter the pharmacy at the end of the month.

As for what the pharmacy would reward her with, it was all up to luck.

For example, on the way to the capital, the pharmacy only rewarded her with a mouthful of immortal aura.

Su Xiaoxiao closed her eyes. When she opened them again, she was already outside the glass door of the laboratory.

Entry was via an iris scan.It was strange that she had never recorded her identity, but she actually succeeded with a scan.

The test results came out very quickly—the blood sugar was barely normal and the blood fat was high.

Judging from the patient's eating habits, such a diagnosis was almost expected.

Long-term high blood lipids would cause coronary atherosclerosis, narrowing the blood vessel cavity, and obstructing the flow of blood, causing myocardial ischemia, angina, and in serious cases, coronary heart disease.

The patient's situation was already serious.

Su Xiaoxiao took fat-lowering medicine and medicine for coronary heart disease, as well as a few nasal feeding tubes.

The patient had to detoxify first, but he was seriously unconscious and could not swallow on his own. She could only intubate.

Su Xiaoxiao came out of the ear room with a small medicine box. “How's the blood pressure?”

“Still low,” Physician Fu said.

She had to detoxify the poison as soon as possible. Otherwise, the patient would not even have a chance to be treated.

Su Xiaoxiao handed the medicine bottle to Physician Fu. “Three pills. Melt them with warm water.”

Physician Fu had seen Su Xiaoxiao give Su Ergou this medicine. “Isn't this a laxative and vomiting medicine?”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “It can also detoxify.”

It should work.

She added inwardly.

“Ah…” Physician Fu melted the pill skeptically.

The effects of the three pills were not obvious.

Su Xiaoxiao guessed that the poison was too deep and the medicine was not effective enough.

She paused. “Three more.”

Physician Fu felt a chill down his spine. “Are… are you sure? The Old Marquis is old. You can't drug him too fiercely…”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Do as I say.”

Physician Fu rubbed his chest. “Alright, there's no other way.”

He melted three more pills.

After feeding him this time, the black color on the patient's nails finally faded a little, and his pupils were not so dilated.

Physician Fu could not hide his excitement. “Ah! It's effective!”

At Pear Blossom Lane, Su Cheng slept until late in the morning. The three little fellows were already feeding the foal in the courtyard.

Next, they would feed themselves.

The four little ones faced the milk bottle together.

Su Cheng stretched. “Dahu, Erhu, Xiaohu, where's your mother? Oh, I remember. She went on a house call with Physician Fu.”

The three little ones blinked and continued drinking their milk.

The pot was heated with steamed buns. Su Ergou and the three little ones had already eaten and left a few for Su Cheng.

Su Cheng held a steamed bun in his mouth and missed the salted tofu beancurd from last night.

There was a clean well in the backyard. Su Ergou was drawing water from the well.

He glanced at Su Cheng and asked in confusion, “Dad, what's wrong with your eyes? Did you get beaten up?”

“Go away! You're the one who got beaten up!” Father Su walked over and looked at his reflection in the bucket of water. He almost scared himself to death!

His eyes were so swollen!

Sigh, it was all his fault for not sleeping well last night. He had been chased all night in his dream.

Father Su decided to walk around the streets to familiarize himself with the surrounding environment and buy some cooking ingredients.

They could not eat outside every meal. How expensive was it?

“Grandpa.”

The three little ones walked over like squirrels seeing chestnuts.

Su Cheng chuckled. “You didn't call me Grandpa just now. Now that I'm going out, you started calling me Grandpa.”

Little brats!

The three of them looked at him adorably. “Grandpa.”

What was shame? It did not exist with the three little ones!

Su Cheng asked Su Ergou to guard the house and left the alley with the three little brats.

The streets of the capital were extremely lively. The traffic was endless.

“I'm selling—candied hawthorn!”

“Sell—candied hawthorn!”

“Big, sweet candied hawthorn!”

The three little ones slurped.

“Grandpa, I want to eat,” Xiaohu said.

“Erhu wants it too,” Erhu said.

Dahu did not say anything.

Dahu went straight ahead.

The two lackeys followed.

“No, you guys…”

The moment the three little ones used the same trick and attacked first, Su Cheng quickly grabbed them!

Dahu and Erhu missed.

Before Xiaohu could bite…

“How much is one?” Father Su asked.

The vendor said, “A string of forty copper coins.”

Four, four, four, four… forty?

Was this a golden candy?

Su Cheng decisively took the three little ones away!

The three little mouths were so pouty that one could hang two soy sauce bottles on their lips.

In order to appease the three little ones' injured hearts and to show that he was not a stingy grandfather, Su Cheng generously went to a dried fruit shop.

He bought nine dried hawthorns.

They were skewered into three sticks and handed to Dahu, Erhu, and Xiaohu.

The three of them took a bite in disdain.

Aiyaya!

So sour!

Their teeth were sore…

The sourness caused the three brats to cringe in various expressions of emojis on the streets and stomp their feet!

At this moment, a man came out of the shop with a huge box. When he saw the children standing by the street, he shouted, “Get out of the way!”

The three little fellows were so shocked that their bodies trembled and Xiaohu's hawthorn dropped.

Although it was sour, it was still bought for him.

Xiaohu bent down to pick it up.

The man stretched out his foot and swung Xiaohu aside.

He did not use much strength. It was not considered a kick, but it was already very rude to use his feet to push the child.

Moreover, Xiaohu was still young. He lost his balance and fell to the ground.

Su Cheng had just helped put on Erhu's shoes when Erhu stomped them off.

Unexpectedly, in the blink of an eye, Xiaohu was bullied.

It was fine to bully him… but he would not allow anyone to bully his grandchild!

Without a word, Su Cheng raised his leg and kicked the man down!

The box in the man's arms fell to the side, scaring the passersby.

Su Cheng carried Xiaohu over and patted the dust on his butt. “Are you alright? Did you hurt yourself?”

Xiaohu stretched out his small hand on the ground and said in a childish voice, “Hand! Hand! It hurts!”

Su Cheng looked at the child's red palm and his expression darkened.

That person got up and was about to fight with Su Cheng when he was stopped by a middle-aged man who came out of the shop. “Stop!”

The middle-aged man had the token of the Protectorate of the Public House.

Chapter 214

The man stopped. “Steward Zhang.”

Steward Zhang said, “It's your first day on the job. Don't cause trouble for me. Pick up your things and get in the carriage!”

The man gritted his teeth, picked up the big box on the ground, glared at Su Cheng, and limped away.

Su Cheng grabbed his collar. “Did I let you leave?”

The man didn't expect Su Cheng to be asking for trouble when he had already let things rest!

“Warrior,” Steward Zhang said calmly. “What can I do for you?”

Su Cheng said coldly, “You want to leave just like that after hitting my child?”

His grandchild would not suffer this grievance!

The man mocked, “It was clear that wild child stood in my way…”

“Who did you call a wild child?”

Su Cheng slapped him!

The man staggered to the ground with the box.

Steward Zhang's expression darkened.

“Grandpa, pee.”

Erhu wanted to pee.

Was he a grandfather at such a young age?Steward Zhang sized up Su Cheng strangely.

Su Cheng had a pair of swollen eyes that were like walnuts. It really affected his appearance, but for some reason, Steward Zhang vaguely felt that this person looked familiar.

He did not look like someone from a rich family…

Su Cheng said arrogantly, “I won't argue with you today! Don't let me see you again! Otherwise, I'll beat you to death!”

With that, he raised his hand.

The man on the ground reflexively covered his head with his arm.

Su Cheng brought the three little ones to the toilet.

The man got up with an aggrieved expression. “Steward Zhang, you saw it too. That person was pestering me endlessly. Why didn't you let me teach him a lesson?”

Steward Zhang snorted. “If you didn't kick his child, would he have come to teach you a lesson?”

The man said awkwardly, “I didn't use much strength. I just… swung my leg.”

Steward Zhang said angrily, “How old is that child? Can he withstand your kicks?”

The man muttered, “Isn't he fine?”

Steward Zhang said coldly, “I asked you to work for the Protectorate because of Aunt. Don't cause trouble for me! If you ruin the reputation of the Protectorate, don't blame me for chasing you out!”

The aristocratic families cherished their reputation. As workers, they wore the clothes of the Protectorate and held the tokens of the Protectorate. Yet they dared to cause trouble on the streets. Regardless of whether they were instructed to do so, the reputation of the Protectorate would be affected.

Steward Zhang went to the alley opposite the street and bowed to a luxurious carriage. “High Duke, I've obtained the item.”

He presented it with both hands.

In the carriage, the man addressed as High Duke was the newly appointed Protector Duke, Qin Che. He was about the same age as Su Cheng and was very handsome. His clothes were luxurious and extraordinary, and his shoes were spotless.

He took the brocade box from Steward Zhang and asked unhurriedly, “What happened just now?”

Oh no, the Duke had seen him.

Steward Zhang secretly sweated and smiled awkwardly. “A child accidentally bumped into Wang Dazhu's leg. That child's grandfather blamed Wang Dazhu for not dodging in time and knocking down his child. He gave Wang Dazhu a few blows. Wang Dazhu is feeling aggrieved now.”

“Is the child alright?” Qin Che asked with concern.

Steward Zhang smiled and said, “It's fine. He bumped into Wang Dazhu himself. Wang Dazhu didn't move. He didn't hit him hard.”

Qin Che said earnestly, “We can't let others think that the Duke's Estate is bullying others.”

Steward Zhang hurriedly said, “Yes, yes, yes. Don't worry, we'll remember! We won't embarrass the Duke's Estate!”

“That's good.” Qin Che played with the walnuts he had been holding for several years. “It's getting late. It's time to pick Yanran up.”

The eldest daughter of the Protector Duke, Qin Yanran, was 16 years old and was famous for being a talented woman in the capital. She was proficient in music, chess, calligraphy, and painting. Behind all of this was naturally hard work and sweat, as well as huge financial support.

Qin Yanran was learning the zither at the house of a palace musician today.

The tuition fee for a musician was expensive. Ordinary families could not afford it.

Not long after, Qin Che saw his daughter coming out of the house with the instrument case.

Qin Yanran was born shy and was a top beauty in the capital. Coupled with her talent and temperament, she had always been the apple of Qin Che's eye.

“Father.”

Qin Yanran slowly bowed.

Her actions were dignified, and her voice was gentle.

This was the bearing of a noble lady.

Qin Che smiled dotingly. “Come up.”

Qin Yanran handed the zither to the maidservant at the side. Her fair fingers gently picked up her flowing dress and gently and elegantly got into the carriage.

Qin Yanran's bearing had been taught by the teachers in the palace. Her every frown, smile, word, and action was indescribably beautiful.

It was unknown which family's laurel was blooming brightly, but in front of Qin Yanran, it immediately lost its beauty.

“Why did Father come personally?” Qin Yanran sat down on the bench opposite Qin Che.

The wheels turned.

The carriage was extremely comfortable and luxurious, and it almost did not shake much.

Qin Che smiled and said, “I was passing by and came to pick you up. How's your learning with Master Zhang?”

Qin Yanran smiled and said, “Master Zhang praised me today. He said that my zither skills have improved greatly. It won't be long before I can play ‘Phoenix Seeks the Phoenix' with him.”

Qin Che raised his eyebrows. “Oh?”

Qin Che actually did not know music, let alone understand what song this so-called “Phoenix Seeks the Phoenix” was. For the song to be discussed in this way by his daughter, it must be an extremely difficult song.

Qin Che said, “Counting the days, the Third Prince should be returning to the capital. Our Yanran will be the Imperial Consort soon. You might not know, but when you were born, a monk gave the Protectorate of the Public House an order. He said that the daughter of the Protectorate has the life of the little phoenix. In the future, she will definitely be the mother of the world!”

Qin Yanran looked around. “Father! Be careful with your words.”

The Third Prince was not from the Central Palace. If anyone heard this, they would probably be labeled as traitors.

Qin Che laughed. “I'm just telling you. Don't worry, Father won't announce it to the public. However, if you really marry the Third Prince, then Father will help the Third Prince ascend to the throne even if I have to use my military power and family strength!”

Qin Yanran knew her limits and did not indulge in this topic.

“By the way, this is for you.” Qin Che handed Qin Yanran a brocade box. It was the one that Steward Zhang had taken out of the shop just now.

Qin Yanran opened it and a trace of surprise flashed across her beautiful eyes. “Father! This is… a necklace of South Sea Shark Beads?”

The so-called South Sea Shark Bead was actually a top-notch pearl produced in the South Sea. It was larger, rounder and fuller than ordinary pearls. It was priceless.

It was difficult for ordinary people to even take a look, but Qin Che bought a whole string for Qin Yanran. It was obvious how rich the Protectorate was.

“Do you like it?” Qin Che asked.

“I like it,” Qin Yanran said sincerely. “Thank you, Father.”

On the other side, after Erhu finished peeing, Dahu and Xiaohu also peed.

Su Cheng brought the three little ones to the market.

When he passed by a stall, Su Cheng saw a beaded headband.

His daughter's headband was old and she could not bear to change it.

Chapter 215

“How much is the headband?” Su Cheng asked.

“Two taels,” the peddler said.

“So expensive?” Su Cheng said. “You're not ripping me off, did you?”

In the countryside, a headband was only three or four copper coins!

The vendor explained, “These are real pearls. One costs more than a hundred copper coins!”

Su Cheng had never worn clothes worth more than a hundred copper coins.

He took out his money bag and counted a few scattered pieces of silver. He gritted his teeth and bought them.

At the Marquis of Northern Zhen's Estate, Su Xiaoxiao ended the treatment for the day.

Physician Fu was sweating. He was not tired, but frightened.

When he saw Su Xiaoxiao stick something unknown into the Old Marquis's nose, he was shocked.

Later on, she inserted needles into the Old Marquis. Those acupoints were so dangerous that he usually did not dare to touch them.

He had to have a strong heart to make house calls with this girl.

Su Xiaoxiao opened the door. “You can come in now.”

Su Mo took a deep breath. As he entered the house, he suppressed his nervousness and asked, “How's my grandfather?”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “The poison is almost cured, but he's not completely out of danger.”

Su Mo's expression was solemn. “What poison is it…”

“I'm not sure,” Su Xiaoxiao said truthfully.

Su Mo responded, “How did you cure him if you're not sure?”

He glanced at his grandfather on the bed.

He was not a physician, and he could tell that his grandfather's expression was not so bad anymore. His breathing was much smoother, and he did not seem to be in so much pain. His tightly furrowed brows relaxed a little.

“What did you put in my grandfather's nose?”

“Nasal feeding tube. It's for the medicine.”

Su Mo looked suspicious.

He glanced at the small medicine box on the table again. There were no bottles and jars that doctors often filled, but some… things that he could not name at all.

Su Xiaoxiao closed the small medicine box quietly.

Su Mo retracted his gaze. “Since the poison has been cured, why hasn't my grandfather woken up?”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “The poison has been cured, but the patient is still sick.”

“You are the one who's…”

Su Mo took a deep breath. Forget it, his grandfather was indeed sick…

No, why did these words sound so wrong?

“Your grandfather has a heart disease.” Su Xiaoxiao tried her best to use words that Su Mo could understand.

Su Mo was slightly puzzled. “Isn't it a cold and spleen and stomach disorder?”

This was what the Imperial Physician had diagnosed when his grandfather vomited.

Su Xiaoxiao nodded. “The patient's early symptoms are indeed easily misdiagnosed as cold and spleen and stomach dysfunction.”

Su Mo continued, “But it did improve after taking the medicine…”

Su Xiaoxiao asked unhurriedly, “His diet was especially light during the few days he took the medicine, right?”

Su Mo looked at the servant at the door.

The servant entered the house and said, “Yes.”

“That's right,” Su Xiaoxiao said. “You have to be strict with your diet when consuming Chinese medicine. The patient's illness is also related to his diet. If his diet is light, his body will feel better. However, the patient only improved a little and hasn't been completely cured, right?”

The servant stammered, “Ah, right.”

Su Mo looked at Su Xiaoxiao deeply. If not for the fact that she had no contact with the Marquis Mansion, he would have suspected that she had understood his grandfather's condition in advance.

“You learned well from Doctor Fu.”

She spoke logically and did not look like a disciple who had yet to graduate.

Physician Fu coughed.

Su Xiaoxiao's expression did not change. “Oh, we make do. Remember to circulate more air in the house. Don't close the doors and windows so tightly. It's not good for the patient's condition.”

Su Mo subconsciously frowned. She kept calling him a patient and was completely drawing a line with the Marquis Mansion.

If he had some doubts at first, at this moment, he really felt that the little girl's reason for coming to the capital had nothing to do with acknowledging her family.

The Old Marquis was not out of danger. Physician Fu stayed to take care of him while Su Xiaoxiao went back first.

Su Mo had no objections.

If Su Xiaoxiao, his disciple, stayed, he would probably be concerned.

After leaving the Marquis Mansion, Su Xiaoxiao took the Marquis Mansion's carriage back to Pear Blossom Lane.

The three little ones were already waiting at the door. As soon as Su Xiaoxiao got out of the carriage, the three of them pounced into Su Xiaoxiao's arms.

They had been stuck together every day and were no longer used to being separated from Su Xiaoxiao.

The three of them felt wronged and buried their faces in her arms, unwilling to get up.

Su Xiaoxiao rubbed the heads of the three of them in amusement. “Are you so aggrieved?”

The three of them nodded.

Actually, they were so aggrieved not only because they could not see their mother when they woke up…

Xiaohu waved his hand and complained, “Grandpa bought candy residue. It's not delicious!”

He didn't remember being pushed to the ground, but he remembered that the candied hawthorn wasn't delicious.

Erhu also said, “My teeth are sore.”

Dahu did not say anything. He secretly brought sugar and ate the candy with it. It was not sour.

Father Su walked over. “Isn't this for your own good? Children can't eat too much sugar.”

Erhu complained, “But you can't buy only hawthorn.”

Father Su cleared his throat. “Ahem, you still know about that?”

“Granny Du has it.” Erhu had seen it at Granny Du's.

Hawthorn was cheap. One could buy a few for two copper coins. The expensive thing was sugar.

After being exposed, Father Su still said confidently, “Children can't eat candy!”

Su Xiaoxiao didn't undermine her father and said to the three little ones, “Grandpa is right. You really should eat less candy. Otherwise, Dahu and Erhu will have bad teeth like Xiaohu.”

The three of them covered their mouths at the mention of bad teeth.

Father Su went to the nearby market to buy the ingredients. Although Father Su looked unreasonable all day, the things he bought were of good quality and cheap.

Su Xiaoxiao seriously suspected that it was due to his looks that…

During this period, Zhong Shan came once and transported charcoal and firewood over.

He had wanted to clean up the courtyard, but he realized that it was very clean.

Zhong Shan was stunned for a moment. It was unknown if he was thinking about something or looking at someone.

When Su Xiaoxiao came out after making a pancake, he had already left silently.

Dinner was onion pancakes and soup, a bowl of steamed eggs, and a plate of stir-fried cabbage.

The prices in the capital were too high, so Father Su did not buy meat.

The three little fellows were very sensible and did not argue about eating meat.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Dad, you don't have to save it.”

Su Cheng said nonchalantly, “Sigh, aren't you on a diet? If we have a room full of people eating meat, how uncomfortable would it be for you to just watch? Besides, it's fine if you eat a meal without meat.”

After dinner, Su Xiaoxiao went to the kitchen to wash the dishes.

Su Cheng brought something in.

“Here.” He handed the thing in his hand to Su Xiaoxiao.

“What?” Su Xiaoxiao asked.

Su Cheng had wrapped the item with a handkerchief himself. The things at the stall were not wrapped so well.

Su Xiaoxiao wiped her hands dry and took it. When she opened the handkerchief, she realized that it was a red beaded headband. The beads were white and echoed the red color of the headband. The color was very bright.

“It's not cheap, is it?”

These were real pearls.

“It's not expensive. Just two taels,” Father Su said.

Wasn't two taels expensive? He was someone who wouldn't even spare five copper coins.

Su Xiaoxiao didn't know what to say.

He couldn't bear to eat meat, but he was willing to spend two taels of silver to buy her a headband.

This father had always been very good to her.

Chapter 216

Su Xiaoxiao removed the old headband and tied her hair with the new one.

Her facial features were extremely good to begin with. Coupled with the effects of vitamins and collagen, her originally dark skin became fair and supple. With her cute round face, she was the most beautiful little girl in the world in Father Su's eyes.

“Oh dear.”

Father Su suddenly sighed.

Su Xiaoxiao was confused. “What's wrong, Dad? Doesn't it look good on me?”

“It's beautiful!” Father Su said.

Su Xiaoxiao asked, “Then why are you sighing?”

Father Su looked at the sky melancholicly. “Sigh, why do you think my son-in-law isn't here yet?”

Back then, when she left Wei Ting in the capital, Su Xiaoxiao said that saving the patient was more important. Wei Ting still had some things to deal with, so they could not wait for him.

Father Su pondered and said, “Could it be that my son-in-law can't find us? Are you sure you told him we're here?”

Su Xiaoxiao's expression didn't change. “Yes, I did.”

…As if.

Wei Ting took the water route. Logically speaking, he was not much slower than Su Xiaoxiao and the others. However, Wei Ting's journey was not peaceful. He was ambushed every few days and the attacks delayed his progress.

“Hahaha! What did I say? Xiao Zhonghua won't let it go easily!”

Yuchi Xiu, who was dressed in black, excitedly pulled out his sword. He tapped the tip of his foot and flew up to kill the assassin blocking the way.

The man in white protected the carriage.

It was unknown how many waves of assassins there were.

In the beginning, the other party only sent three to five. It was not even enough to fill the gaps between Yuchi Xiu's teeth.

Later on, the other party sent more people, from six to eight to ten.

Even if there were people who slipped over under Yuchi Xiu's nose, they were blocked by the man in white.

In short, after a few rounds of assassination, they did not even touch the curtain of the carriage, let alone snatch the Commander's Seal from Wei Ting.

Tonight, they seemed to have made up their minds not to return empty-handed. They mobilized 30 top assassins in the martial world in one go.

In addition, they also set up an ambush in the canyon. The huge falling rocks successfully blocked their path.

The white-robed man and Yuchi Xiu fell into a chaotic battle and could not split up. An assassin approached the carriage.

The assassin lifted the curtain!

However, where was the youngest son of the Wei family?

It was clearly a… scarecrow!

There was a piece of white paper stuck to the scarecrow's chest. Two mocking words were written in bold strokes: Stupid!

Yuchi Xiu wrote it himself.

The assassin said, “Oh no! We've been tricked! They've lured us away!”

“F*ck you!” Yuchi Xiu kicked the assassin opposite him away and used his lightness skill to come to the high rock wall.

“I'm not playing with you anymore!”

He raised his sword and slashed down the huge rock on the rock wall.

The boulder rumbled down. However the assassins had dealt with them, he returned it many times over.

The man in white frowned.

Could this guy give a secret signal when he attacked?

Did he have a hobby of sacrificing his companions?

Fortunately, he dodged quickly and his qinggong was good enough. Otherwise, he would have been smashed to death by the huge rock!

The man in white looked at Yuchi Xiu coldly. “Aren't you afraid that I won't be able to dodge in time?”

Yuchi Xiu said innocently, “Is it my problem that you can't dodge in time?”

“How could you be so unreasonable?”

The man in white was speechless.

How could Young Master stand this guy?

He had only been with him for a few days and had already wanted to kill him hundreds of times!

At sunset, the capital's door slowly closed.

A carriage sped over.

The guard said, “The city gate is closed! Come back tomorrow!”

The city gate was on a winch. It was not easy to open and close it. Most of it was already closed, and they could not be bothered to open it again.

The carriage window was pushed open and a slender jade-like hand handed over a token.

The moment the guard saw the token clearly, his expression changed fiercely. He hurriedly took a step back and cupped his hands to apologize. “I was blind! I'll open the city gate for you now!”

The city gate opened.

Wei Ting pulled down the window expressionlessly.

The carriage entered the city.

The secret guard disguised as a coachman asked, “Young Master, where are we going now? Are we returning to the residence or…”

Wei Ting said coldly, “Can I already return to the residence? Do you want the Emperor to punish the Wei family for deceiving the emperor?”

The secret guard hurriedly said, “I wouldn't dare!”

The secret guard continued, “Then… to the Dragon Temple?”

This time, it couldn't be wrong, right?

He was supposed to be cultivating at the Dragon Temple to protect the country. His Majesty couldn't punish him, right…

Wei Ting snorted. “Do you think Xiao Zhonghua can't guess that I'm returning to the temple? Do you want me to walk into a trap?”

The secret guard was speechless.

This would not do, and that would not do. Where was he going?!

Wei Ting said, “Grandmaster asked someone to bring me a letter. Read it to me.”

The secret guard mumbled, “No, why do you want me to read your letter? ”

“My lord, I can't read.”

Wei Ting said, “Then I'll read it to you.”

The secret guard muttered, “Uh… there's no need…”

The secret guard had stayed in the Wei family for a few years and had never seen Wei Ting so restless. What happened in the countryside? Young Master had become strange.

Wei Ting unfolded the letter. “Forget it, you won't understand what I mean.”

“The little girl went to the capital. She misses you very much. Unfortunately, the patient's condition is critical, so she could only leave first.”

“You must look for her first when you reach the capital. She's unfamiliar with the place and has three children. I'm worried that she won't be used to it.”

“Most importantly, she misses you very much.”

The secret guard was stunned.

He had a feeling that this was not what was written in the letter, but looking at his young master's expression, he seemed serious and did not seem to be making things up.

Wei Ting sighed helplessly. “Sigh, the Grandmaster asked me to look for her. What can I do?”

The Matriarch also asked him to return to the residence? Did he listen?

Wei Ting placed the letter on the table.

The secret guard stole a glance.

He was a secret guard after all. His eyesight was extremely good.

There were only three words on the paper.

He knew the one in the middle. It was Blossom.

Therefore, how did his young master… expand those three words with what he said and none of them were related to blossom?

“Young Master… where… are we going?”

He didn't mention a single point!

Where the hell were they going? They've walked around the streets a few times!

Wei Ting snorted coldly, his gaze cold. “Pear, Blossom, Lane!”

Chapter 217

In the afternoon, Su Xiaoxiao went to the streets and shopped at a few medicine shops.

She needed to concoct some medicine for the patient, but perhaps because she was used to using Physician Fu's herbs, she felt that the quality of herbs in the shops was not satisfactory.

They walked all the way to the end of Scholar Street and finally found a suitable pharmacy.

There were many types of herbs, and the quality was not bad.

As for the price…

It was wishful thinking to try and get it cheap in the capital.

Su Xiaoxiao picked a few herbs and went to the counter to settle the bill.

Ordinary people came to buy medicine with prescriptions. Only Su Xiaoxiao would concoct them herself.

The medicine boy looked at her strangely. Seeing that she had bought ordinary healing herbs and that they were not expensive, and considering she was not a big client, he did not ask further.

“Five taels,” the medicine boy said.

Su Xiaoxiao took out silver. “Please wrap it up.”

The medicine boy went to pack the medicine.

Su Xiaoxiao waited patiently at the counter.

Ordinary people wouldn't wait quietly and would walk around the shop again. Su Xiaoxiao, however, would focus on waiting.

Qin Yanran entered the pharmacy at this moment.

She was wearing a gorgeous dress and a beautiful jade golden hairpin. There was a white jade tassel around her waist.

She was wearing a veil, revealing only a pair of beautiful eyes.

Such a noble lady was rare in the capital. It was not that there were no noble women in the capital, but with her appearance and bearing, she was at least the daughter of a first-grade duke.

The shopkeeper hurriedly put down his work and personally walked out to welcome her with a smile. “May I ask if this girl wants to get medicine or hire a physician…”

Qin Yanran said warmly, “I got someone to order a thousand-year-old ginseng at your shop last time. I wonder if you have it?”

The shopkeeper patted his head. “Ah, did you order the thousand-year-old ginseng? It just arrived this morning! I kept it for you! I'll go get it for you now!”

The shopkeeper ran faster than he was rushing to be reincarnated.

The maidservant beside Qin Yanran chuckled.

Qin Yanran frowned slightly. “Xing'er, don't laugh.”

“No, Miss. Look.” Xing'er pointed in the direction of the counter.

Qin Yanran followed her finger and saw Su Xiaoxiao waiting quietly.

Xing'er whispered, “Miss, she's so fat.”

Su Xiaoxiao glanced at her calmly and Xing'er was shocked.

Qin Yanran met Su Xiaoxiao's gaze and nodded in apology. “I'm sorry, my servant has acted inappropriately. Miss, please don't take it to heart.”

“The medicine is ready.” The medicine boy handed the wrapped medicine bag to Su Xiaoxiao.

Su Xiaoxiao grabbed the medicine bag and ignored Qin Yanran as she left the medicine shop.

Xing'er muttered, “Miss, why is she like this? She actually ignored you when you spoke to her?”

“Miss, your thousand-year-old ginseng!” The shopkeeper held a brocade box with both hands and walked over with a smile.

He looked at the green-faced Xing'er and couldn't help but ask, “What happened?”

“Nothing,” Qin Yanran said. “Xing'er.”

Xing'er took the brocade box.

Her young lady's status was precious. It was impossible for her to personally accept something handed over by a commoner.

Qin Yanran paid and brought Xing'er into the carriage.

She instructed the coachman, “Go to the Marquis of Zhenbei.”

In the evening, Su Xiaoxiao had just finished brewing the medicine when Su Mo's coachman came.

“Miss Su, the Old Marquis is awake. Physician Fu wants you to go over.”

“Got it.”

Su Xiaoxiao said to Su Cheng, who was cultivating in the front yard, “Dad, I'll go out for a while.”

Su Cheng recognized the coachman and knew that she was going to treat Old Master Su's father. He didn't object and only reminded Su Xiaoxiao to come back early.

Su Xiaoxiao brought the medicine to the Marquis Mansion.

She looked at the unconscious Old Marquis on the bed. “Was he awake?”

Physician Fu coughed lightly. “He did wake up just now. If you don't believe me, ask Little Quanzi.”

Little Quanzi was the servant who took care of the old marquis.

Little Quanzi hurriedly said, “Yes, Miss Su, it's just that… he fell asleep again after a while.”

Su Mo was not around.

He should have gone to investigate the matter of the Old Marquis being poisoned.

He did not spread the news and secretly investigated. He even asked Physician Fu to keep quiet about it.

Su Xiaoxiao took the Old Marquis's pulse and looked at his pupils. “How's his blood pressure?”

“His blood pressure has risen a little,” Physician Fu said and yawned.

Among the people in the group to the capital, Physician Fu was the weakest. He woke up early today…

Su Xiaoxiao said to him, “I'll keep watch here tonight. Go back and rest.”

Physician Fu hurriedly said, “No need, no need. I'll just watch over him.”

Chapter 218

“Come and replace me tomorrow morning,” Su Xiaoxiao said firmly.

In the end, Physician Fu couldn't persuade Su Xiaoxiao and sat in the Duke Mansion's carriage.

Little Quanzi looked at Physician Fu's departing back with a puzzled expression.

Why did Doctor Fu listen to his disciple so much?

Shouldn't the disciple listen to the master?

Was he still her master?

On the other side, Qin Yanran brought the maidservant into the residence.

Qin Yun also lived in the residence. When he heard that his sister was there, he hurriedly rushed out the door. “Sister!”

Qin Yanran looked at her brother who was walking towards her and smiled. “Ah Yun.”

Qin Yun grabbed her sleeve and wheedled. “Sister, why did you only come to see me now? I've been back for two days! Are you here to bring me back to the residence?”

Qin Yanran said, “I heard that you came back for two days and slept for two days.”

Qin Yun curled his lips. “Isn't that because it's too tiring to travel? I wonder what Cousin is thinking. Must he bring me along? Isn't it good to let me and Uncle come back?”

Qin Yanran said warmly, “Granduncle usually dotes on you the most. Now that he's sick, Eldest Cousin naturally has to bring you back first. By the way, how's Granduncle's condition?”

At the mention of this, Qin Yun's eyes flashed.

Qin Yanran frowned slightly. “Don't tell me you haven't seen Granduncle?”

Qin Yun said aggrievedly, “You can't blame me for this… You don't know how tiring it is to travel… Eldest Cousin didn't let me rest at all… I almost died of exhaustion on the way… Sister, look, I've lost weight…”

Qin Yanran shook her head. “Forget it. Follow me to visit Uncle.”

Qin Yun muttered, “Then can I return to the residence tonight?”

Qin Yanran said, “Stay here with Granduncle!”

Qin Yun whispered, “Why… I miss Mom…”

Qin Yanran said sternly, “Granduncle dotes on you so much. Can't you be filial to him?”

Qin Yun said listlessly, “I'm filial, but you have to let me return to the residence. Also, you're clearly the one my grandfather dotes on the most.”

“You… Sigh.” Qin Yanran sighed helplessly. “Forget it, let's go.”

The siblings went to the Old Marquis's courtyard.

“Why don't I see Cousin?”

“I don't know what he was busy with. I didn't see him when I woke up.”

Little Quanzi was smashing walnuts in the courtyard under Su Xiaoxiao's instructions.

Hearing the conversation between the siblings, he quickly stood up. “Cousin, Miss!”

Qin Yun asked, “What are you doing? I heard you clanking just now. Aren't you afraid of disturbing my granduncle?”

Xiao Quanzi smiled and said, “Miss Su asked me to smash a few walnuts.”

Qin Yanran was slightly stunned. “Miss… Su?”

The surname of the Duke of Zhenbei was Su, but there was no daughter in the Duke of Zhenbei's family. If there was, they would not be so distant in their address.

Su Xiaoxiao walked out lazily. “Little Quanzi, are you done smashing the walnuts?”

Qin Yun's gaze landed on Su Xiaoxiao. After a while, he exclaimed, “It's you?!”

Qin Yanran recognized it too.

Wasn't this the fat girl she had met in the pharmacy?

Xing'er's eyes widened. “Aiyaya, Miss, it's her! It's her!”

Qin Yun said, “Wait, Sister, you know her too?”

Qin Yanran asked, “You know her?”

Little Quanzi was dumbfounded. “Young Master, Miss, do you… know Miss Su?”

They really had their own stories.

Qin Yanran and Su Xiaoxiao had only met once, so they didn't know each other.

Qin Yun had many entanglements with the Su siblings.

At the Su family's ancestral residence in Qingzhou, he had a fight with Su Ergou. Later, he got someone to ask about Su Ergou's identity and said that the Su family had invited him to make snacks. The name of the business was Su Ji.

They were a pair of siblings. The elder sister was a fatty, and the younger brother was a blackie.

Qin Yun originally wanted to bring people to take revenge, but unfortunately, he was reprimanded by Su Yuan. Moreover, Su Yuan ordered him not to cause trouble. Otherwise, he would go back and tell his grandfather.

Qin Yun was most afraid of his grandfather.

Qin Yun and Su Xiaoxiao had never fought seriously. When Su Xiaoxiao went to settle the bill with Steward Yu, Qin Yun looked at her from afar.

Su Xiaoxiao's appearance and characteristics were enough for anyone to remember her.

Qin Yun rolled up his sleeves arrogantly. “Alright! I didn't cause trouble for you, but you came knocking on my door!”

“Brother!” Qin Yanran called out to him.

Little Quanzi took a few steps forward and stood between the two of them. “Young Master, Miss Su is here to treat the Old Marquis. She is the physician's…”

Disciple.

“Is there a misunderstanding between you and Miss Su?” Little Quanzi asked.

Qin Yun could not be bothered with a slave. He said to Qin Yanran, “Sister, do you still remember that Su Ji I told you about in the letter? It was her brother who whipped me! My face has been swollen for half a month! I have to make them pay! I… what did you just say? What physician?”

Qin Yun asked Little Quanzi belatedly.

Little Quanzi said awkwardly, “The physician Eldest Young Master invited from Qingzhou.”

Qin Yun berated, “She's a chef! How can she know how to treat people? Cousin was most likely deceived by her!”

What?

Miss Su was a chef?

Now it was Little Quanzi's turn to be surprised.

However, she was invited back by Eldest Young Master. Little Quanzi could not really let her be harmed by Young Master.

Little Quanzi could only bite the bullet and say, “No, no! Young Master, Miss Su is that physician's disciple…”

Qin Yun exploded. “What disciple? She's a chef! Oh, I understand. You must be swindling everyone!”

Qin Yanran's gaze involuntarily landed on Su Xiaoxiao.

Compared to the furious Qin Yun, Su Xiaoxiao was much calmer. She even grabbed a handful of walnuts that Little Quanzi had smashed and ate them with relish.

Qin Yanran frowned slightly.

A very strange feeling rose in her heart.

Chapter 219

Qin Yun berated, “Men! Capture her!”

“What nonsense!”

Su Mo's voice appeared behind them.

Qin Yanran frowned and turned around, calling out softly, “Cousin.”

Qin Yun said, “Cousin, you came at the right time! Why did you invite this girl back as a physician? I'm afraid you don't know, right? She's the chef who made snacks at the ancestral residence last time! She doesn't know medicine! You were deceived by her!”

Qin Yanran said, “Ah Yun, don't talk nonsense. Since Eldest Cousin invited her back, he must have understood Miss Su's ability.”

“The walnuts are not bad. Smash two more.”

After Su Xiaoxiao finished speaking to Little Quanzi, she turned around and entered the house.

Little Quanzi wiped his cold sweat. This girl was really bold…

Qin Yun was furious. “Cousin! Look at her!”

Su Mo said sternly, “Shut up! Your granduncle is seriously ill in bed and needs to recuperate.”

This was the first time Qin Yun had been scolded by his eldest cousin. He felt extremely aggrieved. “She asked someone to smash walnuts. Why didn't you say anything about the noise?”

A trace of surprise flashed across Qin Yanran's eyes.

The Su family doted on her and Qin Yun very much. They could not even bear to say a harsh word…

“If you're here to visit, go in obediently. If you're here to cause trouble, I'll get someone to send you back to the residence immediately!”

Su Mo was in a bad mood.

His grandfather had been poisoned and he had no clue after investigating for a day. His grandfather was not out of danger. It was fine if Qin Yun did not obediently visit him, but he actually caused trouble here.

Qin Yanran said softly, “Cousin, can I go see Grandpa? I brought Grandpa ginseng soup.”

Su Mo's expression softened. The Marquis of Zhenbei's residence had its waves of flourish and decline. In three generations, there was only one girl, and that was his Grandaunt. Therefore, as a cousin, Qin Yanran undoubtedly obtained the love of the entire residence.

Unlike Qin Yun, she was not spoiled. On the contrary, she was very sensible. It was no wonder that Su Mo's grandfather doted on her the most.

Su Mo brought her into the room.

The room was filled with a thick medicinal fragrance. The Old Marquis was lying on the dark bed like a withered corpse. It was not difficult to make unlucky associations.

Qin Yun was a little afraid and did not dare to go forward.

Qin Yanran came to the bed dutifully and took out a handkerchief to gently wipe the Old Marquis's forehead.

Su Xiaoxiao sat in a chair and nibbled on a walnut.

Qin Yanran asked Su Xiaoxiao, “Miss Su, what illness does my uncle have?”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Ask Eldest Young Master. I've told him everything I need to.”

Qin Yun said coldly, “What attitude!”

Su Xiaoxiao glanced at him. “I'm telling the truth. Do you dare to listen?”

Su Mo's eyebrows twitched.

“It's a heart condition,” he said. “Grandfather has a heart condition.”

Qin Yanran asked worriedly, “Why did he suffer from heart disease? Grandpa is a martial artist and has always been in good health.”

Qin Yun chuckled. “Sister, Cousin, they're quacks. Do you believe her words?”

Qin Yanran didn't answer her brother's words. Instead, she instructed the servant at the door, “Little Quanzi, go and simmer the ginseng soup. My granduncle will drink it when he wakes up later.”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “The patient can't drink ginseng soup.”

Qin Yun gritted his teeth and said, “Stupid girl! You did it on purpose! Why can't he drink the ginseng soup that my sister made herself?”

Su Xiaoxiao finished the walnut in her hand and clapped her hands. “The patient is weak and can't take nourishment. If you want his life, let him drink it.”

Qin Yun glared. “You cursed my granduncle!”

Su Xiaoxiao frowned in frustration.

She did not have much patience with these so-called hedonistic sons. She did not care how others spoiled him.

She didn't want to hear them chatter.

“Unrelated people, get out.”

Qin Yun almost fell back in anger!

What did this brat say?

Unrelated people?

He was the young master of the Protectorate!

The person lying on the bed was his grandmother's biological brother!

If anyone wanted to get lost, it should be her!

Qin Yun couldn't take it anymore. Ignoring that this was the Old Marquis's ward, he raised his fist and smashed it at Su Xiaoxiao angrily!

Qin Yanran's face turned pale. “Ah Yun! Stop!”

She reached out to grab him, but how could she?

Su Mo was far away from him and could not stop him in time.

Just as everyone thought that Su Xiaoxiao was going to take a punch from him, Su Xiaoxiao easily grabbed his wrist and twisted it, causing him to fall to the ground. She placed her knee on his back and pressed him down.

Qin Yun was placed in an extremely uncomfortable and humiliating position.

He was furious!

The dignified Little High Duke of the Protectorate was actually pressed to the ground by a little girl!

Where was he going to put his face?

Why was this pair of siblings so good at fighting?

Chapter 220

However, without Jing Yi backing her up, Qin Yun was not afraid of her!

He shouted, “Stupid girl! I'll get Granduncle to kill you!”

Su Mo did not expect the little girl's movement technique to be so fast.

Her capture technique seemed to have been practiced. It was clean, ruthless, and accurate, with a heroic aura.

It was difficult to imagine that such a round and chubby body actually contained such terrifying explosive power.

“Cousin!” Qin Yanran looked at Su Mo anxiously.

It was Qin Yun's fault. Su Xiaoxiao had not provoked him. It was fine if he had spoken ill of others, but he even tried to beat her up.

Su Mo really wanted Qin Yun to learn a lesson, but when he met Qin Yanran's pleading gaze, he sighed imperceptibly. “Su…”

Before he could finish, a weak voice came from the Old Marquis's throat.

Su Mo immediately looked at his grandfather and saw his eyes slowly open.

His expression lit up as he strode to the bed. “Grandpa! You're awake?”

Qin Yanran hurriedly looked at the Old Marquis with a trace of surprise. “Granduncle!”

When Qin Yun heard that the Old Marquis had woken up, he immediately became arrogant. “Granduncle! Someone bullied me! Hurry up and teach her a lesson for me!”

The Old Marquis's gaze landed on Su Xiaoxiao.

Qin Yun immediately became smug. “Hurry up and let go of me!”

His grandfather was awake. This brat was dead meat!

Little Quanzi, who had been watching at the door for a long time, silently held his forehead.

It was over. Miss Su was finished.

The Old Marquis doted on this pair of siblings the most. He doted on them more than his biological son and grandsons. It was as though his son and grandsons were picked up from the streets, and the Qin siblings were biological.

If not for the fact that the three generations looked too similar, someone would really suspect so.

However, the Old Marquis did not say a word.

Of course, it was also possible that he was too weak to say anything.

He looked straight at Su Xiaoxiao, his eyes sparkling.

Su Mo looked at his grandfather deeply and pondered for a moment. He said to the three people in the house, “Miss Su, please come over and take a look at my grandfather. Yanran, bring Ah Yun back to the residence first.”

Qin Yanran: “…Got it, Cousin.”

Su Xiaoxiao let go of Qin Yun and Qin Yanran helped him up. Qin Yun still wanted to complain but was pulled away by Qin Yanran.

The moment she crossed the threshold, Qin Yanran turned around.

She wondered if it was her imagination.

After her granduncle woke up, he kept staring at the little girl. His gaze did not look like he was looking at a stranger.

After leaving the courtyard, Qin Yun snorted unhappily. “Sister, why did you pull me out? Can't you see that I was bullied like that? I must get Granduncle to teach her a lesson!”

Qin Yanran said in a low voice, “Stop fooling around! Granduncle is so ill, you should be concerned about his health! You shouldn't disturb him with such trivial matters!”

Qin Yun refuted, “Is it a small matter that I was beaten up? Sister! Ever since you were engaged to the Third Prince, you seem to have become a different person! You keep talking about the rules!”

“I didn't.”

“You did! I don't want to talk to you anymore! I'll go back and tell Father and Grandfather! Let them avenge me!”

Qin Yanran felt a headache as she watched Qin Yun leave angrily.

Su Mo was not a fool.

What Qin Yanran could notice, he naturally noticed too.

Moreover, because he knew a certain amount of inside information, he did not think that it was his imagination like Qin Yanran.

Her grandfather looked at the little girl differently.

In the past, his grandfather doted on Qin Yanran and Qin Yun the most. However, today, just as the little girl appeared, his grandfather's attention was all on her. He did not seem to notice Qin Yanran and Qin Yun in the room.

Unfortunately, the poison in the Old Marquis's body had yet to be cleared. He only woke up for a while, but before he could even say anything, he fell asleep weakly again.

The commotion just now gave Su Mo a headache.

“It won't happen again,” Su Mo said.

“Huh?” Su Xiaoxiao looked at him strangely.

Su Mo said, “You and your master are physicians invited by the residence. It was my negligence to let Qin Yun cause trouble in front of you.”

He was not someone who shied away from responsibility.

In addition, he had never seen his grandaunt before. His feelings for her were not as deep as those of his grandfather and father. Therefore, his bloodline towards his grandaunt was not so much love as a form of filial piety to his grandfather and father.

Without interference from his grandfather and father, his attitude towards Qin Yun was considered fair and just.

“Oh.” Su Xiaoxiao didn't care.

Qin Yun and Su Mo were different persons.

She would not mix them up.

Qin Yun came over to cause trouble, causing Su Mo to remember that Qin Yun had slept for two days.

Su Mo said to Su Xiaoxiao, “I almost forgot. You've been traveling for a month. You must be exhausted. I'll get the servants to keep watch over Grandpa. Go to the room next door and rest for a while. I'll call you if there's anything.”

Su Xiaoxiao gave him a look that said she couldn't leave.

Su Mo looked down and saw his unconscious grandfather holding her hand tightly.

The Old Marquis woke up in the middle of the night.

Su Xiaoxiao sat on the stool and fell asleep at the head of the bed.

She felt the movement in her palm and immediately looked up at the Old Marquis on the bed.

“You're awake? How do you feel? Are you feeling unwell?”

The Old Marquis looked at her in a daze, his hoarse voice trembling. “Fatty…”

Su Xiaoxiao blinked strangely. “Eh? You know my name?”

“Fatty…”

The Old Marquis called her Fatty a few more times and fell asleep in a daze.

Su Mo came over close to dawn.

He continued to investigate the poisoning. He had not slept all night and was visibly haggard and tired.

“How's Grandpa?”

Even his voice was much hoarse.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “He woke up once last night, about half an hour ago. He was not too conscious, but his pulse is smoother than yesterday. If his condition doesn't worsen today, he'll be considered to have passed the critical period.”

Su Mo let out a long sigh.

Then, he asked, “What did my grandfather say when he woke up?”

Su Xiaoxiao thought for a moment and said, “He called me… Fatty. How did he know my name?”

Su Mo was puzzled. “Aren't you called Daya?”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “A nickname.”

When the villagers saw that she was fat, they called her Fatty from Daya.

Su Mo sized her up. “That's quite an image.”

Su Xiaoxiao was speechless.

Su Mo paused. “No, I didn't tell Grandpa your name.”

Chapter 221

When it was almost noon, Su Yuan, Su Qi, Su Yu, and the others returned to the capital.

The first thing Su Qi and Su Yu did was fight to visit their grandfather.

“I'll go first!”

“I'll go first!”

The two brothers tugged at each other, neither giving in.

In the end, Su Yu took half a step ahead of his second brother and squeezed into the Old Marquis's house.

The brothers, who had been arguing outside, immediately fell silent as soon as they entered the Old Marquis's room.

Seeing that their grandfather, who could still practice boxing in the courtyard before they set off, lie weakly on the sick bed, their eyes turned red.

“What happened to Grandpa?” Su Yu choked.

The letter said that their grandfather's health was not good, but they did not expect it to be so bad.

Su Qi blamed himself. “It's all my fault. If I had known… I wouldn't have gone to the crowning ceremony…”

“It's not your fault, Second Brother.” It was rare for Su Yu not to undermine Second Brother. “You can't help much in the residence.”

Su Qi sniffed. “At least I can accompany Grandpa…”

Su Yu said, “Second Brother, don't think too highly of yourself.”

Su Qi was speechless.

Su Yuan also came over to see the Old Marquis. Then, he went to the study next door with a pained heart.

“What did Physician Fu say?” Su Yuan asked.

Su Mo did not hide anything from his father. “He was poisoned. He also has heart disease.”

Su Yuan was shocked and grabbed the armrest of the chair. “What? How did your grandfather get poisoned?”

The heart illness was surprising, but the poisoning was even more unbelievable.

Su Mo said, “I'm secretly investigating, but I still have no clue. I've asked Grandpa about his daily diet, and there's nothing strange. We can rule out the possibility that he was accidentally poisoned.”

The so-called accidental poisoning referred to the suppression of food. Such a situation was rare, but it was not unheard of.

The Old Marquis' poison clearly did not belong to such a situation.

Su Mo continued, “I suspect… that someone poisoned Grandpa, but I haven't found out how or where.”

Su Yuan nodded and agreed with his son's guess. “Who would poison your grandfather?”

Su Mo said seriously, “My grandfather has been in the military his entire life. He's upright and has made countless enemies. I'm afraid it's very difficult to lock in the murderer based on the motive. From the perspective of the beneficiaries, the first beneficiary is actually Father.”

Su Yuan hesitated.

Su Mo said, “If Grandpa passes away, Father can smoothly inherit the position of Marquis of Zhenbei. I know that Father won't frame Grandpa, but the officials in the court and the citizens in the capital all know that Grandpa had a big fight with Father a few months ago. Grandpa even threatened to abolish Father's position as the heir and return the title of Marquis to the Imperial Court.”

Su Yuan smiled bitterly. “So, in order to protect my title, I'm very likely to attack your grandfather.”

Su Mo's eyes were firm. “Father won't, but rumors will cause trouble.”

Su Yuan naturally wouldn't harm his father. He understood that his son trusted him. His son was stating the facts and crushing all the clues to analyze them objectively and impartially.

He was proud to have such a son.

Seeing that his father was not turned off, Su Mo was relieved and continued, “Grandpa has military power. If he dies, he will benefit many military families, the Wei family, the Murong family, the Qin family, and the Leng family.”

Su Yuan shook his head. “The Qin and Su families are dead. Without your grandfather, the Qin family's power in the Imperial Court will be weakened. The Qin family won't frame your grandfather. As for the Wei family and the Leng family…”

Su Yuan fell silent.

The entanglement between the Wei and Su families could not be explained in a few words.

Su Mo continued, “By the way, Father, there's one more thing.”

Su Yuan said, “Tell me.”

Su Mo frowned. “Did Grandpa… investigate Miss Su?”

Su Yuan was puzzled. “Why do you say that?”

Su Mo said, “Miss Su has a nickname in the countryside. Her name is Fatty. I don't remember mentioning it to Grandpa, but Miss Su said that when Grandpa woke up, he called her Fatty.”

Su Yuan suddenly became excited.

Su Mo looked at him strangely. “Father?”

Su Yuan calmed himself down. “Aunt was a little fatty when she was young. Father always called her Fatty…”

Su Mo looked at the portraits of his aunts hanging in the study. The girl in the portrait had a graceful figure and was not fat at all!

Su Yuan coughed lightly. “Aunt gave the painter 200 taels of silver to make her thinner.”

A person could be fat, but not her portrait!

Before she got married, his aunt's portrait somehow landed among the commoners. The entire capital knew that the Su family had a fairy-like beauty. Countless children were infatuated with his aunt, crazy about her, and banging against the wall for her!

Chapter 222

Su Mo's expression was complicated.

Was she a little thinner?

The painter had simply dug out half of her grandaunt!

The sky was bright when a carriage stopped in the silent Pear Blossom Lane.

The secret guard said with huge dark circles under his eyes, “Young Master, we've been waiting all night. Are you sure you don't want to knock on the door? What are you conflicted about? Tell me, I'll settle it for you, okay?”

Wei Ting snorted coldly.

Didn't she wake up early in the countryside?

They started making snacks at midnight.

Had she become lazy in the capital?

Wei Ting's carriage was at the door and he had been bitching for most of the night. If his young master's anger could kill, the secret guard felt that no one in Pear Blossom Alley would survive.

Finally, there was movement in the courtyard.

Wei Ting's ears pricked up and he immediately dusted his long wide sleeves.

He had recovered his identity, so he was naturally no longer dressed like a farmer.

He was dressed in a wide white robe and a dark-colored gauze shirt with fur. An exquisite jade belt was tied around his strong waist. From afar, he looked ethereal like an immortal. Up close, he was as peerless as jade.

The clear light of the Night Pearl rippled in the carriage and landed on his jade-like face, making him look even more clear and handsome.

With such a good appearance, even the most beautiful woman had to admit that she was inferior.

“The carriage window,” he instructed coldly.

The secret guard got out of the carriage and raised the window.

Wei Ting said, “It's too high.”

The secret guard muttered, “Are you picking an angle?”

Creak. The courtyard door opened.

Wei Ting sat handsomely and coldly.

Unfortunately, it was Physician Fu.

Physician Fu did not know Wei Ting. He glanced at the carriage parked opposite and left.

Creak. The courtyard door opened again.

Wei Ting continued to sit upright.

It was Su Ergou.

He did not recognize his new brother-in-law… mainly because he did not look. He took the foal out to poop and returned to the courtyard.

Wei Ting was speechless.

The third to come out was Father Su.

He was not awake at all. He heard the horse snort and thought that his daughter had returned. He glanced at it in a daze.

“Ah… not my daughter.”

He returned to the house to sleep.

Wei Ting was speechless again.

Was he still Father Su's most doted son-in-law?

The secret guard suddenly pitied his young master.

After waiting for the entire night, he was treated as air by the inhabitants of the courtyard one after another. What was going on?

Wei Ting said, “It's a little stuffy in the carriage.”

The secret guard said, “Uh… Then do you want to come down for a walk?”

Wei Ting said, “Since you insist, I'll listen to you this time.”

The secret guard was dumbfounded. What did he insist on?

Wei Ting alighted from the carriage coolly and came to the unlatched courtyard door.

Coincidentally, the three little ones also got up.

They wanted to see if their mother was back and pulled open the heavy wooden door.

Then, they saw a towering figure.

Wei Ting uttered, “Heh.”

The three little ones looked at him in a daze for three seconds!

In the next second, the three little ones worked together and closed the door with a bang!

Not good!

Stinky father was here to snatch them!

“Uncle!”

The three little ones hugged Su Ergou's thigh.

Su Ergou asked, “What?”

Dahu said, “Don't go out.”

Su Ergou said, “I have to buy buns. Aren't you hungry?”

They were hungry…

The three little ones rolled their eyes as they thought of a solution.

Xiaohu pointed with his small hand. “Through the back door!”

Erhu went to the kitchen to get the basket for groceries.

Dahu stood on his tiptoes and took the latch off the back door.

This was the first time Su Ergou had enjoyed the star-level service of these three little ones. He scratched his head. “Oh, okay.”

At the front door, Wei Ting laughed angrily.

Little brats, did they not want their father anymore after not seeing him for a month?

Look at what that woman had done to his sons.

The secret guard said, “Young Master, were those three children just now Young Masters?”

Wei Ting rushed over on the way to the capital. He only learned about what had happened along the way from Yuchi Xiu, but he had never seen the Su family and the young masters.

“It's all because of her!” Wei Ting snorted coldly. “When I see her later, see how I deal with her!”

As soon as he finished speaking, the Su family's carriage arrived.

“Miss Su, we're here,” the coachman said.

Wei Ting walked over coldly and lifted the curtain.

The coachman said in surprise, “Hey! Who are you…”

The secret guard's sword was pressed against the coachman's neck.

Wei Ting held back his anger all the way. He thought of a hundred ways to teach someone a lesson, but before he could flare up, he saw a tired face.

Su Xiaoxiao stayed up all night and fell asleep from exhaustion in the carriage.

Chapter 223

Wei Ting reached out coldly and carried her down from the carriage.

The coachman was dumbfounded.

The secret guards were not much better.

Where was the lesson?

Wei Ting carried a certain soft little fatty and could feel that she was lighter.

Wei Ting frowned and entered the house with a dark expression.

The secret guard opened his mouth. “Young Master…”

Wei Ting said calmly, “Go buy some meat.”

The secret guard was speechless.

The three little ones only followed Su Ergou to buy buns. After buying them, they refused to go back.

Su Ergou thought that they had been holding it in at home, so he did not suspect much. It was just that… after walking for a long time, he was not tired, but he was thirsty.

“Let's go back and have a drink before coming out to play.”

He only said to the three little ones.

The three little ones shook their heads.

“Rice wine,” Xiaohu said.

This was the most accurate pronunciation he had ever made.

There was indeed a shop nearby that sold rice wine and various buns. Su Ergou swallowed. “Alright, alright.”

After all, he had earned 60 taels of silver and could afford a few bowls of rice wine.

As such, he brought his three nephews in to drink rice wine.

Enemies were bound to meet on a narrow road. He had actually encountered Qin Yun.

To be precise, Qin Yun had discovered him.

Qin Yun had suffered with Su Xiaoxiao yesterday and wanted to complain to his grandfather and father. Unexpectedly, the two of them were busy until midnight before returning. He had already fallen asleep.

When he woke up this morning, the two of them went to court again.

He was filled with anger and was worried that he had nowhere to vent it. Coincidentally, he saw Su Ergou!

Su Ergou's whip was too ruthless. When he saw Su Ergou, his face hurt.

He was on the second floor, and Su Ergou and the three children were in the lobby.

The shops in the capital changed frequently, but there were also some unique old shops that did not fold. For example, the noodle shop that day and this restaurant today.

“I'm actually eating with such a person. How unlucky!”

“What's wrong with the little High Duke?”

The young master of the Zhang family, Zhang Xun, who was sitting opposite him, said, “After knowing that the Little High Duke is returning to the capital, we skipped class to welcome you. Aren't we considerate enough?”

“It's not you,” Qin Yun said angrily. “A wretched slave who doesn't know what's good for him.”

Another young master surnamed Li said, “Oh? Which servant actually dares to offend our Little High Duke?”

Who was Qin Yun?

Qin Yun was the only son and the future heir of the Duke's Protector's Estate. His biological sister was about to marry a prince. In the entire capital, there were probably not many people who dared to provoke this young duke.

Qin Yun said coldly, “The kid I mentioned to you in my letter!”

“Him? He came to the capital?” The third young master, Sun Kuang, stood up and began to size up the hall.

The few of them were profligate sons. Qin Yun's scoundrel friends usually curried favor with him, so they naturally would not let go of this opportunity.

“The one with the three children?” Sun Kuang asked.

Young Master Li and Zhang Xun also came over to take a look.

Young Master Li said, “Yo, triplets. How rare. They look quite…”

“Ahem!” Young Master Zhang coughed heavily.

Young Master Li hurriedly changed his words. “They're silly. It's obvious that they're country bumpkins from the countryside. Speaking of which… why are they in the capital?”

Qin Yun snorted. “They're swindling me! My cousin was deceived badly by them!”

Young Master Li said in surprise, “Even Young Master Su was deceived? That can't be… Young Master Su is very smart…”

Qin Yun said angrily, “What do you know? This is called being smart for a lifetime and being muddle-headed for a moment! They pretended to be physicians and sneaked into the Marquis of Zhenbei's Estate to treat my granduncle. When I went to visit my granduncle yesterday, he looked like he was about to die…!”

Young Master Li punched the ground and said indignantly, “Outrageous! This is murder!”

“I reminded my eldest cousin, but he didn't listen to my advice! He'll kill my uncle and grandfather sooner or later!”

“Ahem,” Zhang Xun said. “Marquis Su is a good person. He will be fine.”

This kid kept saying that he couldn't take it anymore and that his seniors would be killed. Could he hope for the Old Marquis?

Young Master Li said seriously, “We can't let them continue to harm the Old Marquis!”

Qin Yun asked, “Do you have a way?”

Young Master Li smiled and said, “What's so difficult about that? They're just a few country bumpkins from the countryside. Just chase them out of the capital! Leave this to us!”

“Can it work?” Qin Yun muttered.

The Su family trusted the siblings very much. He had not gained anything from them.

Young Master Li rolled up his sleeves and said arrogantly, “You're looking down on us too much. This is the capital, our own territory! If we can't even chase away a few country bumpkins, I won't be able to show my face in the capital in the future!”

Sun Kuang said, “Eh? Those children are gone.”

Chapter 224

Su Ergou went to the toilet and reminded the little fellows not to wander around.

“Stinky.” Xiaohu pinched his nose exaggeratedly.

Then the three little fellows left.

They wouldn't go far. They wandered around the shop and went upstairs.

After they left the room, the three little ones came out of the empty room next door. They tilted their heads and looked at Qin Yun before looking at his friends. They frowned fiercely.

Young Master Li and the others' plan was actually very simple. It was to scare them. If they couldn't do it once, they would do it twice. If they couldn't do it twice, they would do it thrice. If they were frightened enough, they would naturally not be able to stay in the capital.

“They're not that timid…” Qin Yun felt that this method was inappropriate.

Young Master Li said indifferently, “That's because someone happens to save them every time. Let's find out where they live and beat them up a few times when no one is supporting them!”

Qin Yun continued, “They have some skills…”

Young Master Li said, “Call a few more guards! You, rest assured, and wait for us to avenge you!”

As he spoke, he gave Zhang Xun and Sun Kuang a look. The two of them brought their guards out.

There were a total of seven.

It was impossible to be a guard in the capital without real martial arts. Su Ergou would be no match for this group of people.

Young Master Li instructed, “When that kid comes out later, block him in the alley…”

A guard asked, “What about the three children?”

Young Master Li said impatiently, “Can't you hold down the three children?”

The guards did not want to bully a few children, but as servants, they could not disobey their master's orders.

They went to the alley to wait.

Young Master Li said to Qin Yun, “Let's go. Let's find a place and wait to watch a good show.”

They wanted to see Su Ergou beaten up with their own eyes. Only then could they vent their anger.

They could not be too brazen. Otherwise, if others found out that they had done it, the elders in the family would punish them.

There was a teahouse opposite. The room on the second floor was facing the alley where the crime was about to take place.

However, before they could go far, something unexpected happened.

The three little fellows walked over.

The first to discover them was Sun Kuang.

He had been paying attention to the three little ones from the beginning because they were really… too cute.

“Big Brother.”

Erhu raised his head and looked at them cutely.

Qin Yun frowned.

Sun Kuang couldn't help but ask, “What's wrong?”

The three little ones did not say anything. Instead, they came to them and raised their small hands to gently pull their sleeves.

They had six small hands which were enough to tug at four sleeves.

Qin Yun hated the Su siblings to death, including the children with them. He almost instinctively waved his sleeve. “Get lost! Where did this dirty child come from? Don't touch me!”

It was Dahu who pulled Qin Yun.

Dahu's hand did not actually touch Qin Yun, nor did Qin Yun's sleeve slap Dahu.

However, Dahu fell to the ground.

Immediately after, Erhu, who was beside Dahu, fell to the ground with his brother.

Xiaohu was the furthest away, but he also fell!

Among the three of them, he was the most exaggerated and promising!

He did not forget to vomit blood.

“Piu! Ugh…”

Sun Kuang was dumbfounded.

What was going on?

Did they fall one by one?

The first to fall could be said to have been slapped by Qin Yun.

The second… was barely touched by the first… although it didn't seem to have hit…

The third one was so far away. Why did he fall?

Scholar Street was one of the most prosperous areas in the capital. There was a lot of traffic, not to mention that business at this old restaurant was extremely good.

As soon as the triplets fell, they were immediately surrounded.

“What happened?” an aunt asked.

A young lady beside her said, “That young master in white slapped the three children and knocked them down!”

Qin Yun glared angrily. “Who slapped them? I didn't even touch them! They fell down themselves!”

“Woah!”

The three little ones looked up at the sky and cried. “It hurts!”

Erhu whimpered, “No, not on purpose… Don't hit… It hurts…”

Everyone understood. It turned out that a few children had accidentally bumped into him. In a fit of anger, he beat them up!

Heavens!

“They were just a couple of three-year-old children. How could you bear to do it? ”

“It was their fault for bumping into him, but it was fine if you reprimanded them. If you really wanted to attack, you should beat up their family's adults!

“It was because the adults didn't look after their children. You didn't have the guts to attack the adults, so you vented your anger on the children, right? ”

“What the hell is this? He looks like a human, but why is his heart so black? ”

Bullying children on the streets… especially such cute children could really incur public anger.

Qin Yun was so angry that his lungs hurt.

He pointed at the three little fellows. “If you dare to lie again! I'll beat you up!”

Xiaohu cried. “Wu Wa! I'm so afraid!”

A very righteous little girl placed her hands on her hips and said, “You still said that you didn't bully them! Look at how fierce you are! Do you still want to attack!”

“I…” Qin Yun choked.

A carriage passed by the entrance of the restuarant. The commotion was too loud and attracted the attention of the carriage owner.

She lifted the curtain and asked curiously, “What happened over there?”

The maid beside her said, “Your Highness, it seems that a few children were bullied.”

“They even bully children!” The woman frowned. “Stop the carriage!”

The coachman stopped the carriage.

The woman alighted from the carriage with the maid.

To be honest, her travels were very low-key. Unfortunately, the canopy on the carriage revealed her identity.

The citizens of the capital were not ignorant. They could roughly guess what was going on just by looking at the fair-skinned coachman and the bright yellow canopy on the carriage.

This was a member of the royal family!

It was unknown which royal family member it was.

The woman was wearing a thin veil that half covered her face.

Everyone did not dare to blaspheme the royal family's sacred face and lowered their heads.

The woman did not reveal her identity, so everyone did not have to bow. However, the surroundings suddenly became silent. It was obvious that everyone had long guessed that her identity was precious.

Everyone spontaneously made way.

The woman came to the three children and squatted down. She looked at them warmly. “What's wrong?”

The three little ones looked at her in unison.

The maid pursed her lips and seemed to want to say something, but when she thought about how many children there were, she didn't know where to start.

She looked at her master worriedly, afraid that the children would say something that would make her master sad…

“Am I dead?” Erhu asked.

“Huh?” The woman was stunned.

Erhu's clear and flawless eyes looked at her without blinking. “Otherwise, why would I see a fairy? Mother said that there are fairies only in the sky.”

The woman was stunned.

The maid was even more confused than her master.

Master's appearance… pancake face, green bean eyes, and a pair of flying eyebrows… was he sure he saw a fairy and not a yaksha?

The woman's veil was translucent to hide her appearance. However, the moment she bent down to ask the little fellow, the veil had long been lifted by the breeze.

Everyone secretly sized her up. Her appearance was reflected in everyone's eyes.

Everyone shuddered!

Did the little bean have some misunderstanding about fairies?

Didn't his conscience hurt if he lied blatantly?

The woman blushed and stammered for a long time, unable to speak.

“Master?”

The maid called out to her and reminded her with her eyes to lower the veil.

The woman came back to her senses and coughed twice. She tidied her veil and asked Erhu, “What happened?”

Xiaohu got up, covered his butt, and limped to her. “Fairy Sister, he hit us!”

He pointed at Qin Yun.

Qin Yun's hair stood on end!

“You fell to the right just now! Why are you covering your left butt now!”

“There was more!”

“I didn't hit!”

“Who are you?”

The woman asked indifferently.

Qin Yun was not good at observing. He was one of the few fools who did not guess the identity of the woman.

However, even if he had guessed it, he probably did not think that he could not afford to offend her.

After all, his brother-in-law was a proper prince!

Qin Yun raised his eyebrows. “I'm…”

“Ahem!” Young Master Li coughed heavily. It was meant as a reminder not to offend the other party who had a background!

Qin Yun thought that Young Master Li was reminding him not to expose his identity. Otherwise, it would tarnish the reputation of the Protectorate.

He snorted. “Why should I tell you?”

The woman stood up and unleashed her royal aura. “Slap him!”

The maid opened her mouth. “Master, he's…”

The coachman flashed over and grabbed Qin Yun's collar. He slapped him a few times!

Qin Yun was stunned by the slap. “I-I'm the young master of the Duke Protector!”

He thought that these words would successfully suppress the other party.

Unexpectedly, the woman did not even look up. “The people of the Duke's Estate take the salary of the commoners and do not stand up for the commoners. Instead, they bully the weak on the streets. The crime is compounded. Beat them up!”

Young Master Li shrank his neck and prepared to sneak away.

Erhu held the woman's hand. “Fairy Sister, he's running!”

The woman said coldly, “You're birds of a feather. Beat them up together!”

Chapter 225

Qin Yun had encountered a tough opponent today.

As the treasure of the Qin and Su families, who wouldn't give the Qin and Su families some respect when they saw him?

Those who were not as important as him did not dare to provoke him.

Those who were more important than him would usually tolerate him due to his youth.

In short, Qin Yun was taught a terrible lesson.

His scoundrel friends were not spared.

Sun Kuang felt that he was in a sorry state. He did not want to attack and had tried to dissuade Qin Yun. Why was he beaten up together?

Qin Yun's identity had just been exposed. In less than a day, the news of the Little High Duke bullying children on the streets and being taught a lesson would spread like snow on the streets of the capital.

One could imagine what awaited him when he returned to the Protector Duke's Estate.

On the other side, the woman brought the three little ones into the shop.

She asked for a room and asked the three little ones, “Who did you come out with?”

Dahu said, “With Uncle.”

The woman said again, “Wheres is your uncle?”

Erhu said, “In the toilet.”

Xiaohu pinched his nose and said, “Raqiu-qiu!”

The maidservant at the side couldn't help but chuckle.

The woman's expression did not change much, but when she heard that they had family accompanying them, her expression relaxed slightly.

She reminded him, “Don't run around anymore, understand?”

Xiaohu said, “Yes.”

“Also,” the woman said, “no more lies.”

The three of them blinked at her.

The woman snorted. “Do you think I can't tell?”

The three of them rolled their eyes, probably thinking of schemes. However, in the end, the three of them lowered their heads.

“They wanted to bully Uncle,” Dahu said.

“So many, so many people,” Erhu said.

Xiaohu pointed down. “Block the alley!”

The woman was stunned.

She, she didn't mean this…

Wait, were these little fellows really scamming?!

“You…” The woman suddenly felt angry. She, the dignified princess of the royal family, was actually played by a few brats.

“Is… is there anything else?”

She gritted her teeth.

Erhu blinked and said, “It doesn't hurt.”

Xiaohu waved his hand. “Xiaohu doesn't hurt either.”

Dahu nodded.

The woman said, “Anything else?”

Dahu thought for a moment. “I secretly ate candy.”

He ate it secretly in the morning.

The two little fellows looked at Dahu. How could he do this?

No wonder they had fewer candies!

Erhu thought that he was already scheming enough, but he did not expect his brother to be more scheming than him!

He was so angry!

The woman pressed down on her heaving chest. “Think about it again. Did you lie about anything else today? Just now… after you saw me just now…”

The three of them frowned and recalled carefully. Their faces were extremely serious.

A moment later, the three of them shook their heads.

No, these were all the little lies they told today.

Calling her fairy sister was not a lie. It was a little gentleman's courtesy!

The woman was excited again.

“Dahu, Erhu, Xiaohu!”

In the backyard, Su Ergou was looking for the three little ones.

The three little ones bade farewell to the woman and walked down.

The woman waited until Su Ergou took the three little ones away before returning to the carriage with the maidservant.

“Fairy Sister…”

The woman covered her face. She was shy and excited. If not for her ears, the corners of her mouth would have reached the back of her head.

The weather was so good today!

Children were so cute!

She wanted to go back and give birth to a nest!

She didn't have a consort.

Oh, that was fine.

After Qin Yun was taught a lesson, he was carried home by the guards.

When Qin Yanran saw her brother covered in injuries, her expression changed. “How did this happen?!”

Qin Yun had never suffered such a heavy punishment in his life. He did not even have the strength to cry and could only sob softly.

She then looked at Qin Yun's personal attendant. “Tell me! What happened to my brother? Who beat him up like this!”

The guard explained in detail.

Through his description, Qin Yanran guessed most of it.

The only royal family in the entire capital who did not care about the Protector Duke's Estate and the Marquis of Zhenbei's Estate was Her Highness.

She was the same age as Princess Hui An and had yet to be married.

Unlike Princess Hui An, who was known as the number one beauty of the royal family, this princess' appearance was very ordinary and could even be considered a little ugly.

However, the Imperial Astronomer had done a reading for her. Her eight characters were extremely good for the royal family. Coupled with the fact that she was from the central palace, she was quite doted on by His Majesty.

Chapter 226

Qin Yun cried. “Sister… Help me tell Brother-in-law… Let him teach her a lesson…”

Qin Yanran clenched her fists and scolded in a delicate voice, “Stop causing trouble for the Third Prince!”

Teaching the direct descendant of the Central Palace a lesson? Did she want to die?!

Moreover, it was originally Qin Yun's fault.

Qin Yanran said, “Don't be so willful and mischievous in the future. You're the young master of the Duke Protector's Estate. Remember your identity! Don't cause trouble everywhere!”

Su Ergou brought the three little fellows home. He was a rash person. When he left the shop, Qin Yun and the others were being taught a lesson. He did not know it was due to him.

The three little ones refused to enter and looked around the courtyard.

“What are you doing? Come in!” Su Ergou said.

The three little ones carefully walked in and tiptoed like thieves, confusing Su Ergou.

The three of them arrived at Su Cheng's door and pushed it open, closing it!

Su Ergou was speechless.

Su Xiaoxiao was too tired and slept until the afternoon.

In her daze, she vaguely felt someone glaring at her fiercely.

However, on second thoughts she thought it was not possible. Her family doted on her very much, so no one would glare at her.

Well, it must be an illusion.

She rolled over and went back to sleep.

Wei Ting, who was sitting cross-legged on the bed and staring at her for the entire day, was speechless.

In the evening, the three little ones went to play with the foal. Su Ergou followed closely.

Father Su moved a small stool to the front yard. At his feet were the thin bamboo strips that Zhong Shan had obtained for him.

The bamboo strips had been treated and dehydrated. They were dry and resilient.

When he was young, he only fed cows. Therefore, he learned some skills from others. Sometimes, he learned secretly, and sometimes, he worked for others.

His daughter's basket was broken. He wanted to make a new one for her.

It was sold in the market, but firstly, it was expensive. Secondly, it was not as solid and durable as his. Most importantly, his daughter had to put a first aid kit in her basket, so the layout was different from ordinary baskets.

He had not woven a bamboo basket for many years and was a little unfamiliar with it. He cut his palm twice.

He didn't even frown. His blood dried and he continued to fabricate.

As he weaved, he gradually got into his groove and his movements became familiar and fast.

Su Yuan lifted the curtain of the carriage and saw Su Cheng burying his head in weaving the bamboo basket.

His heart ached as he turned to look at the weak old man beside him. “Father…”

The Old Marquis woke up two hours ago. This time, he did not fall asleep immediately and was very awake.

The first thing he said was to ask where they were.

After Su Mo told them where the family lived, he ignored Su Yuan, Su Mo, and Physician Fu's objections and dragged his sickly body over.

Su Mo and Su Yuan reached out to help him.

The Old Marquis waved his hand, indicating that he could walk by himself.

The father and son knew the Old Marquis's temper and did not dare to argue with him. Otherwise, it would really be troublesome if the old man fainted again.

The Old Marquis had not trained in vain. Most of the reason why he had fainted these few days was that he had been poisoned. Now that the poison was almost eliminated, he was immediately energetic and would be fine after taking a few steps.

He slowly came to Su Cheng.

Su Cheng was weaving the bamboo basket when he suddenly felt a shadow above his head.

He looked up with some frustration. When he saw that it was an old man, he suppressed his anger and asked indifferently, “Who are you?”

The Old Marquis looked at Su Cheng's eyebrows which were the same as his sister's and could not help but feel excited.

“You… you're Su Cheng?”

He asked in a trembling voice.

“Ah, I am.” Su Cheng stretched his sore long legs. He was tall, so it was difficult for him to sit on the small stool.

The Old Marquis extended his trembling hand.

Su Cheng instinctively leaned back and looked at him strangely. “What are you doing?”

It was too similar…

He was like him… and like his sister…

But there was one more thing to confirm.

“Can you… show me your butt…”

Su Cheng's body trembled as he glared angrily. He jumped up and shouted!

The Old Marquis fell to the ground and finished his sentence with difficulty. “…The birthmark…”

As soon as he finished speaking, the Old Marquis's eyes darkened, his head tilted, and he fainted!

Su Cheng was dumbfounded.

Fifteen minutes later, Su Xiaoxiao, who was forcefully woken up, yawned and came out of Su Cheng's room.

She came to the central room and looked at the anxious Su Yuan, the serious Su Mo, and the slightly awkward Father Su.

“It's fine. He's asleep. He'll wake up in a while.”

Chapter 227

As soon as these words were spoken, everyone heaved a sigh of relief.

“Can I go in and take a look?” Su Yuan asked.

Su Xiaoxiao nodded. “Help yourself.”

The father and son went to the Old Marquis.

Only the father and daughter were left in the central room.

Su Xiaoxiao was confused. “Dad, why did you beat him up?”

Su Cheng coughed lightly and muttered, “Who asked him to look at my butt…”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Isn't that…”

Su Cheng said, “I even took a deep breath.”

Su Xiaoxiao was speechless.

Su Cheng said in confusion, “Daughter, what's going on? Who is that person? Why does he want to see my birthmark… How did he know? I know that Su Yuan. The last time he went to our house, was the other his son? He looks quite similar. The person I knocked out was his father… Ahem, his father?”

Su Xiaoxiao didn't know the character of this family and didn't want Father Su to be harmed in any way.

It was fine if he did not have any expectations at first, but the disappointment after the anticipation was the most hurtful.

However, since things had come to this, there was nothing to hide.

Su Xiaoxiao decided to tell him about the jade pendant.

“Dad, do you still remember the jade pendant on you? It's the one you treat as an heirloom.”

Su Cheng said, “I remember. Why?”

Su Xiaoxiao continued, “That jade pendant was originally a pair. You said that you don't remember where it came from and you might have picked it up.”

Su Cheng said, “Yes, and I even picked up a pair. Later on, a piece was stolen by the Su family. I know about this.”

Su Xiaoxiao looked at him steadily. “Dad, you didn't pick up the jade pendants. They were yours to begin with.”

Su Cheng was speechless.

Su Mo came over and said that the Old Marquis was awake and asked the two of them to enter the room.

Looking at his grandfather's swollen face, Su Mo finally understood where that girl got her reaction speed when beating Qin Yun up. It was definitely inherited.

There was no displeasure in the Old Marquis's eyes.

Even the emperor could not slap his face. Su Cheng did.

So be it.

He had heard Su Cheng's words just now.

There was a birthmark on his butt!

Actually, it didn't matter if he looked at the birthmark or not. From the moment he saw Su Cheng, he knew that the latter was his sister's child.

This feeling had never been so strong.

“Let me tell you.” Su Yuan sighed. “Su Cheng, the jade pendant in your hand belongs to my aunt. Back then, when my aunt reached adulthood, my father gave her a pair of pendants. They're the ones in your hand.”

On the way back to the capital, Su Yuan thought about it repeatedly.

What if it was true? What if Su Cheng was indeed his aunt's bloodline? How should he tell Su Cheng?

He thought of countless words, but the moment he opened his mouth, he realized that it was actually not that complicated.

“…We were assassinated halfway. This caused the carriage to overturn and the horse to be in shock. Aunt and you went missing.”

“Later found our aunt dead… but we didn't find you.”

The nightmares of the past two nights kept flashing across Su Cheng's mind.

A crazy horse, endless pursuit, and blood all over the ground. A woman whose face had long been blurred struggled to get up from the pool of blood. She hugged him tightly for a while, gritted her teeth, and used the last of her strength to push him into the cold lake.

He fell bit by bit to the cold bottom of the lake.

He saw the assassin's sword pierce her body.

There was no pain in her face. She twisted her head and smiled at him as he fell to the bottom of the lake. She mouthed, “Live… Che'er… You have to live…”

Chapter 228

As night fell, all the households started to cook. The fragrance of food floated out of Pear Blossom Lane.

Su Xiaoxiao sent the Old Marquis and the others to the entrance.

“You… is there anything else you want to know? You can ask everything,” Su Yuan said.

Su Xiaoxiao looked back at Su Cheng's closed door and asked calmly, “Have you found the murderer?”

Su Yuan nodded. “I found them. They were a group of bandits nearby.”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Is that so?”

Su Yuan sighed. “There's indeed something suspicious about this. We'll investigate secretly.”

“Actually, back then… after Cousin disappeared, Qin Su never gave up on searching. We were looking for a child with the surname Qin, but we didn't know that he had long changed his name to Su Cheng. He doesn't remember… Perhaps he was too shocked back then…”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “My father is also very agitated now.”

If she had known that the truth was so cruel, she might have thought about it more.

Su Xiaoxiao said calmly, “I'm not interested in knowing about your family's struggles, but no one can hurt my father. Not in the past, and not in the future!”

Su Yuan saw an incomparable determination in Su Xiaoxiao's eyes.

At this moment, she did not look like a sixteen-year-old girl.

Her indomitable iron bones seemed to want to forge the hardest armor for Su Cheng.

Su Yuan could not tell how long it had been since he had been so shocked.

This was his aunt's bloodline.

He said firmly, “The Marquis of Zhenbei will also protect you.”

They would not let anyone bully them again, nor would they lose them.

Su Xiaoxiao's expression was very calm. “I'll protect my own father.”

With that, she turned around and entered the courtyard.

The Old Marquis had yet to recover from his serious illness and could not withstand any torture. After receiving Su Cheng's punch, he immediately returned to his room to rest.

Physician Fu took care of him from the side.

Su Yuan and Su Mo went to the study next door.

The first time he saw Su Cheng in Apricot Flower Village, Su Yuan vaguely felt that something big was about to happen. After that, big news exploded one after another. Su Yuan repeatedly jumped to the question of whether Su Cheng was his cousin.

After confirming the truth today, he finally felt relieved.

“Actually, Father… guessed it long ago, right?” Su Mo said.

Su Yuan did not deny it. “The first time I saw him… I did feel familiar and close… However, the matter is too big. I was afraid of making a mistake…”

Su Mo asked suspiciously, “If Su Cheng is Grandaunt's flesh and blood, what's going on with the Duke Protector? Father, do you still remember how he returned to the Qin family back then?”

Back then, before Su Mo was born, he had learned about Qin Che acknowledging his ancestors.

However, as a junior, he could not question and investigate established facts like a case.

Therefore, he did not know much about the relevant details.

Su Yuan recalled what happened 20 years ago. “I wasn't in the capital at that time. I heard from your grandfather later that he found the Qin family first and said that he was the son of the Duke. At first, the servants didn't believe him and chased him out as a beggar. He didn't give up and came every day. Finally, he met an old steward.”

Su Mo said thoughtfully, “I thought he met the Duke Protector directly.”

Su Yuan smiled faintly. “How is that possible? The Duke's status is precious. If he gets someone unknown to cause trouble in front of him, those servants won't have to work in the residence.”

Su Mo nodded. “That's true.”

Su Yuan continued, “That old steward once took care of the little High Duke. After ten years, his appearance inevitably changed, but there were still some outlines of the past between that person's eyebrows. Coupled with that jade pendant, the old steward brought him to the Duke Protector.”

Su Mo frowned. “Then the father and son reunited? I heard from Grandpa today that there's a birthmark?”

“That child also has…” Su Yuan paused for a moment. “They also did a blood test.”

Su Mo said, “A blood test… is not accurate.”

Su Yuan nodded in confusion. “Who did you hear that from?”

Su Mo said, “Physician Fu. He said it was possible to add something to the water fuse the blood of two people”

This was the first time Su Yuan had heard of this, but with Physician Fu's medical skills, it should be true.

Su Mo said, “Father.”

Su Yuan said, “I understand what you want to say. It's very important. He has already inherited the title of Duke. If he really angers the Emperor, both families might be implicated.”

Su Mo wanted to say that that was not what he meant.

Even if he was cold by nature, he would not let others occupy the magpie's nest without stirring up trouble.

Su Yuan's eyes were slightly red as he said, “Mo'er, do you know how I felt when I saw Su Cheng sitting in the courtyard weaving bamboo baskets? If not for that accident back then, he would be the one living in luxury now… The young master of the Duke's Estate, wandering among the commoners, being a cowherd and growing up with hundreds of families…”

Su Yuan closed his eyes and said, “Even I feel so uncomfortable… Your grandfather probably… feels like his heart is being cut by a knife…”

The Old Marquis only did not show it on his face, but if he was not extremely sad, why would he lock himself in his room the moment he returned to the residence?

Su Mo asked, “Father, what are Grandpa's plans?”

Su Yuan pondered for a moment and sighed. “With your grandfather's personality, he naturally plans to tell the old Protector Duke directly.”

Su Mo sized up Su Yuan's expression. “Father seems to have a different opinion.”

Su Yuan didn't deny it. “It's not a different opinion. I just feel that we've already gone wrong once and can't go wrong a second time. If… I mean if…”

Su Mo continued on behalf of his father, “If the accident back then is related to the Protector Duke's Estate, Uncle and the others will be in danger.”

Su Yuan said, “That's right.”

Su Mo said seriously, “Father, since Uncle is in the capital, this matter will have to be put on the table sooner or later. It's better to do it sooner than later.”

Su Yuan looked at his son. “So you agree with your grandfather's actions?”

Su Mo nodded. “I agree. However, Father's concerns are not unreasonable. Why don't we do this? Grandpa won't be able to leave for the next few days. I'll hurry up and find out the truth. If I really find out anything, it won't be too late to tell Grandpa to change the plan.”

Su Yuan pondered for a moment. “Alright.”

When Su Cheng woke up, he realized that he was lying in Su Ergou's room. He sat up strangely. “Why did I sleep here?”

Three furry heads squeezed over and blinked at him. “Grandpa.”

“Oh.” Su Cheng rubbed their heads.

Su Xiaoxiao walked in with a basin of hot water. “Grandpa is awake. It's fine. Go play.”

The three of them left the house.

Su Cheng scratched his head. “I'm…”

Su Xiaoxiao paused. “Dad, don't you remember?”

“I…” Su Cheng frowned and racked his brains to recall. “Is there a guest at our house?”

Su Xiaoxiao glanced at him and quietly placed the hot water on the table. “Yes, Su Yuan was here. Do you still remember him?”

Su Cheng said, “I remember. I was the one who tied him up… ahem, saved him. Daughter, you even treated his illness. Eh? Has he also returned to the capital? Why did he come to our house? No, he… did he come with his son and father?”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Yes.”

Su Cheng admitted that he remembered. “Then did I beat up his father?”

Su Xiaoxiao nodded. “Yes.”

“Why did I beat him up? He… he…” Father Su couldn't think anymore. He scratched his head. “Why don't I seem to remember?”

Su Xiaoxiao said calmly, “You were sleepy and were dozing off. He woke you up, so you beat him up.”

Su Cheng nodded thoughtfully. It was like something he would do.

Moreover, why did he have a vague impression? It was because he was sleepy!

He coughed lightly. “I didn't beat him up badly, right?”

That was the Marquis.

“No.”

“He's not angry?”

“No.”

She muttered under her breath, “He was very happy. He treasures you and can't wait to take two more punches.”

“What happened next?”

“When you fell asleep, the Old Marquis borrowed your room, so Ergou brought you to his.”

Su Cheng was enlightened. “I see.”

Of course, Father Su was not asleep. He had fainted. Before he fainted, his face showed great struggle and pain.

Su Xiaoxiao guessed that he had remembered something bad when he was young.

When a person suffered a huge stimulation, and this stimulation was unacceptable, the brain would automatically activate the defense mechanism and forcefully erase that memory.

In other words, Su Cheng had selective amnesia.

However, this was not true amnesia. Instead, it sealed the painful memory fragments in his subconscious.

Once he was stimulated, the painful memories would return. In serious cases, there might be memory resistance, causing his consciousness to be confused and he would fall into a coma, just like what happened just now.

When he woke up again, there would be two outcomes—to completely accept that memory or forget the memories related to it.

Looking at Father Su's reaction, it should be the second possibility.

In her previous life, she specialized in surgery. She had not come into contact with many such cases. She had to slowly figure out how to treat them.

“What are they doing at our house?” Su Cheng asked. “Ah, are they here for you?”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Yes, they came to look for me to get the medicine. It was not convenient for Physician Fu to prepare the medicine in the residence, so I went to the pharmacy to buy herbs. They passed by and came to get it.”

“Oh.” Father Su did not doubt his daughter's words.

Gulp…

His stomach growled.

He looked at Su Xiaoxiao eagerly, like a big white cat waiting to be fed. “Daughter, I'm hungry.”

Su Xiaoxiao smiled. “I'll cook.”

Chapter 229

“Eh? Daughter.”

Su Cheng looked around. “Where's my son-in-law? Where did he go?”

“What?” Su Xiaoxiao asked.

Su Cheng pointed at the main branch of the second courtyard. “Son-in-law, he was still in your room just now.”

At this moment, the door of the main room was wide open. At a glance, there was no one.

Su Xiaoxiao was stunned. “He's here?”

Su Cheng said, “He came in the morning!”

Father Su slept until late in the morning. When he saw Wei Ting standing in the room, he asked and found out that Wei Ting had been there for a while.

The corners of Su Xiaoxiao's mouth twitched. “How did he find this place?”

Su Cheng asked strangely, “Didn't you tell him where it is? He's not stupid. Of course, he can find it.”

Su Xiaoxiao muttered, “The key point is that I didn't tell him…”

Not far away, two figures silently enveloped in the night.

The secret guard looked at his young master with a complicated expression.

Wei Ting stood motionless under the roof, his eyes indifferent to the front. He had maintained this posture for more than an hour.

It was obvious that he had been greatly agitated.

The secret guard sighed secretly. Hadn't he been greatly agitated?

The fat girl who kidnapped the young master was actually a child of the Protectorate. The blood of the Qin and Su families flowed in her bones.

Old General Wei was killed by the Qin and Su families. They have definitely sworn enemies!

It was over, it was really over…

Su Xiaoxiao came out of Father Su's room and was about to boil water to bathe the little fellows. When she turned around, she realized that the three of them were standing at the door and looking out.

Su Xiaoxiao walked over. “Dahu, Erhu, Xiaohu, what are you looking at?”

The three of them quickly turned around, their eyes wide and innocent.

The three of them said nothing.

Su Xiaoxiao had been on maternal duty for three months after all. She could guess what the little guys was thinking.

She bent down and looked at the three little fellows seriously. “Are you looking for Daddy?”

The three of them's eyes flashed.

It looked like it.

Although the three little fellows did not want Wei Ting to snatch them away, he was their father after all. How could they not want him to return?

After a month, Su Xiaoxiao's anger was actually almost gone. When the little fellows looked at her innocently again, her heart subconsciously softened.

“Go to sleep first. Perhaps tomorrow… your father will be back.”

The three of them obediently went.

Su Xiaoxiao looked up at the sky.

Suddenly, her ears twitched and her eyes turned cold. “Who is it?!”

She picked up the big hoe by the wall and walked out.

Just as she arrived at the alley between the house next door, she bumped into a familiar and unfamiliar figure.

What was familiar was this person's clear eyebrows. What was unfamiliar was that he had taken off his coarse cloth clothes and changed into the embroidered clothes and shoes of a young master of an aristocratic family.

He was handsome and had an unparalleled elegance about him.

It was late at night and Su Xiaoxiao suddenly suffered an attack from his good looks.

“Why… is it you?”

She murmured the question.

Wei Ting tilted his head slightly. Perhaps it was because he had returned to the capital, but his entire aura was different from in the countryside.

He was cold and aloof, but he had the unruliness and arrogance of a noble young master.

“A hoe, huh?”

This magnetic sound tickled one's ears and heart.

Oh no, this body's infatuation was acting up again.

It was really a burden at all times.

She was clearly going to settle scores with this person, but her heart was beating faster.

Su Xiaoxiao wrung her hand. She would treat this love-struck fool sooner or later!

“It's to guard against thieves. Why, can't I?”

“Alright, which thief dares to target you? They're really courting death.”

“It's good that you know!” Su Xiaoxiao threw the hoe behind the courtyard door and clapped her hands. She asked indifferently, “How did you find me?”

Wei Ting chuckled. “From your tone, you seem to think you hid it very well.”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “I didn't hide it!”

Wei Ting sneered. “Then who abducted my sons without a word?”

Su Xiaoxiao said seriously, “That's not kidnapping. I was bringing the kids to the capital!”

Wei Ting sneered. “It's kidnapping.”

Su Xiaoxiao was speechless.

Su Xiaoxiao glared at him, still not understanding how this guy found her.

Did Su Yuniang tell him?

That was impossible. Su Yuniang did not know her exact address.

Grandmaster Hui Jue…

Su Xiaoxiao glared. “You know Grandmaster Hui Jue?!”

Wei Ting uttered, “Heh.”

“Sister!” Su Ergou strode over. When he saw Wei Ting, he exclaimed, “Brother-in-law? You're back?”

Chapter 230

Wei Ting nodded. “It's so late. Are you going out?”

Su Ergou scratched his head. “Dahu and the others want to eat candied hawthorn. I'll buy it for them.”

The three little fellows knew that Su Xiaoxiao didn't let them eat candied hawthorn and that Father Su was stingy and wouldn't buy candied hawthorn for them, so they targeted Su Ergou.

Su Ergou was the easiest to fool at home.

Wei Ting said to Su Ergou, “Your sister and I will go buy it.”

“Ah, sure!” Su Ergou turned around and returned to the central room.

Su Xiaoxiao was speechless.

Whose brother was he really?

She hadn't said anything!

Wei Ting looked at her with a faint smile. “Are you going for a walk?”

“Hmph!”

A certain little fat peacock shook her head and left valiantly!

The secret guard on the roof scratched his head. This little fat girl was quite cold in front of the Su family, but in front of his young master, she was different.

The young master was strange, but so was the little girl.

They were both strange!

The two of them walked on the endless street.

One was a fat girl rarely seen in ancient times, and the other was a devastatingly handsome man. Along the way, there was no one who did not turn around to look at the two of them.

The two of them did not care about the gazes of the world around them and walked forward openly.

She had originally bought candied hawthorn for the three little fellows, but as she walked, Su Xiaoxiao's stomach growled.

Su Xiaoxiao was busy for the entire night. After sleeping for most of the day, the Su family came… The series of matters came to an end for the time being, but she forgot that she had not eaten.

There were no roasted sweet potatoes sold nearby.

“That osmanthus rice wine glutinous rice balls taste pretty good,” Wei Ting said.

Su Xiaoxiao hesitated for a moment before heading in that direction with a cold expression.

The two of them found an empty table in the lobby and sat down.

Wei Ting asked for two bowls of osmanthus rice and wine glutinous rice balls, a special pot-fried meat, and a plate of cold side dishes.

There was no filling in the glutinous rice balls. The texture was porcelain, soft, and a little chewy. It tasted very similar to what she had eaten at her grandmother's house when she was young in her previous life.

Perhaps because it was all handmade and not as smooth and delicate as the ones made by machine, Su Xiaoxiao actually preferred this taste.

Su Xiaoxiao ate spoonful by spoonful and unknowingly ate half of it.

When she came back to her senses, her eyebrows twitched.

She was on a diet. Why did she eat so much?

But it would be a waste not to eat…

Su Xiaoxiao looked at the glutinous rice balls in the bowl bitterly and tried her best to calculate how much work she had to do tomorrow to metabolize it—

The pancake meat was on the table.

Wei Ting pushed the pot of meat in front of her and realized that she was staring at the remaining half bowl of glutinous rice balls. He asked, “Is it not delicious?”

“I'm… on a diet,” she said stiffly.

Wei Ting frowned in disagreement. “You want to be as thin as a bamboo pole?”

Su Xiaoxiao sneered. “Don't you men like fair ladies?”

Wei Ting paused. “So you slimming for me to see?”

Su Xiaoxiao picked up her chopsticks. “Of course not!”

She took a bite of pan-fried meat.

Oh, how fragrant!

After the meat, Wei Ting ordered another plate of duck with sauce. The duck meat had been roasted. The skin was crispy and the meat was full, oily, and salty.

Su Xiaoxiao completely gave up and ate her fill.

Wei Ting had also eaten a lot, but he didn't get fat from eating. The lines on his body were clear. Su Xiaoxiao looked at his figure which looked slim when clothed and brawny when undressed and was deeply jealous!

When the two of them went to buy candied hawthorn, there were only three sticks left.

“It's the last business. I'll sell it to you at a cheap price. A total of 110 copper coins,” the vendor said.

Wei Ting paid and walked back with her.

After taking a few steps, he saw a carriage from the corner of his eye.

He grabbed the candied hawthorn with one hand and grabbed Su Xiaoxiao's wrist with the other, pulling her into the alley at the side!

The alley was dark and damp.

The two of them were enveloped in the night.

Su Xiaoxiao was trapped by him has they leaned against the cold wall.

“Shh—”

He gestured for her to keep quiet.

His tall and straight body blocked her.

The night in March was actually a little cold, but Su Xiaoxiao was afraid of the heat and didn't wear much.

Her skin was delicate, and the wall was hard, causing her pain.

She frowned imperceptibly.

Wei Ting paused and reached out with his slender jade-like hand. He circled behind her and placed the back of his hand against the wall, his palm supporting her delicate back.

Ordinary people would not feel the temperature of his palm through two to three layers of clothes. However, her body was too sensitive. She could clearly feel his warmth.

His fingertips were cold, and his palm was hot. The heat passed through the layers of clothes and ironed her skin bit by bit.

His unique aura surrounded her entire body, and even his breathing was intertwined with hers.

Damn it…

Her mind was calm, but her body began to tingle uncontrollably.

Her legs went weak for a moment.

He caught her soft little waist in time.

“Excuse me,” he said softly. He lowered his head and kissed the corner of her lips.

They did not really touch, but they were only a millimeter away.

This man was a walking hormone. In her previous life, she would have taken a few more glances.

Not to mention, with such an infatuated physique, Su Xiaoxiao closed her eyes and fought against her body's instincts.

She could not be soft.

Her legs couldn't go limp, her waist couldn't go limp…

“Where did he go? I clearly saw Little Seven just now…”

“Madam, did you see wrongly? Isn't Young Master cultivating as a monk in a temple? Why is he wandering on the streets?”

“I didn't see wrongly! That's Little Seven! Go find him in the alley!”

Wei Ting's hand on Su Xiaoxiao's back suddenly went up and grabbed the back of her head.

“Aiya!”

That person covered his eyes, turned around, and ran away!

The two of them were more or less in an ambiguous position. The night was intensified, and their breaths intertwined. Even their breathing and heartbeat could be heard by each other.

Wei Ting's eyelashes trembled as he wanted to remove his hand from her waist.

“Don't move,” Su Xiaoxiao said.

“What's wrong?” Wei Ting asked in a low and hoarse voice.

Su Xiaoxiao turned her face away from him. “My legs are weak.”

Chapter 231

In this posture and scene, it was difficult not to think too much.

Wei Ting almost subconsciously gasped. He wanted to say that nothing had really happened, but he looked at the two of them and swallowed his words.

He grabbed the candied hawthorn with one hand and half-held her with the other. He pressed his elbows against the wall.

The wall was cold and hard, and her body was warm, carrying the softness and fragrance of a young girl.

He was not used to interacting with women.

He should have pushed her away…

“I'm going to fall…”

His arm tightened and he brought her into his arms.

Su Xiaoxiao lay on his chest and listened to his strong heartbeat. Every beat vibrated her eardrums.

Oh, she was not the only one who was disappointing.

He looked so calm but his heart was about to jump out of his chest.

Actually, her legs had long stopped being weak. But she did not want to be the only one to die of embarrassment.

She said softly, “Wei Ting, your heart is beating so fast.”

Hurry up and die!

Wei Ting said coldly, “Isn't it difficult for me when you are pressing down on me like this? Don't you know how heavy you are?”

Su Xiaoxiao was speechless!

Su Xiaoxiao pushed him away in a second. Before she pushed him away, she touched his chest!

She wanted to take advantage of him. There was no way she would suffer a loss!

Wei Ting was speechless.

Su Xiaoxiao crossed her arms and gave him a sideways glance. She snorted. “Who was that person just now? Could it be your rotten crush?”

Wei Ting glanced at her indifferently and his thin lips moved. “My Fifth Sister-in-law.”

He was indeed lucky to meet his family on his first day in the capital.

Su Xiaoxiao nodded. “She called you Little Seven. You're ranked seventh at home. Well… what's with the cultivation? Are you a monk?”

Wei Ting said seriously, “You heard wrongly!”

Su Xiaoxiao touched her chin. “Did I?”

Wei Ting said seriously, “It's getting late. I'll send you back.”

Wei Ting sent Su Xiaoxiao back to her house in Pear Blossom Lane.

The three little ones had just taken a shower. When they heard that their parents had gone to buy candied hawthorn for them, they did not even sleep. They waited at the door like three chicks.

However, when they saw that Su Xiaoxiao had really returned with Wei Ting, they retracted their heads.

Wei Ting was angry and amused. “I'm not taking you away!”

The three of them carefully stuck their heads out and blinked at him, as if they were considering the truth of his words.

Wei Ting took a deep breath and closed his eyes. “…I'll stay.”

Su Xiaoxiao asked, “Did I agree to let you stay?”

The three of them pounced over and called out sweetly, “Dad!”

That night, the three little fellows were so excited that they couldn't sleep. They rolled around on the bed and looked at Su Xiaoxiao and Wei Ting. It was as if they had returned to their days in Apricot Flower Village.

Wei Ting waited until the three little fellows fell asleep before leaving the house.

He still had something to do. He had to go out tonight.

However, he did not expect to be caught just as he opened the courtyard door.

His eyebrows twitched. “Fifth Sister-in-law?”

Madam Jiang chuckled. “It's indeed you! I knew I wasn't wrong! I raised you! How could I be wrong!”

Wei Ting said, “It's an exaggeration to say you raised me…”

“It's been a year since we last met. I think you've grown into a little hooligan!” Thinking of the unbearable scene she saw in the alley, Madam Jiang wished she could poke herself blind!

“Rascal! Instead of reciting scriptures in the temple, you came to the city to be a galivanting monk! I think you need to be disciplined! Whose house is this? Do you live here?”

Wei Ting said without changing his expression, “No, Fifth Sister-in-law. This is a physician's house. I came over to buy some medicine.”

As he spoke, he rolled up his sleeves, revealing the injury on his arm.

Madam Jiang's expression changed slightly.

He said sadly, “It's also on my legs and body. It's inconvenient outside, so I won't show it to Fifth Sister-in-law.”

In terms of acting pitiful, Wei Ting had never lost.

He continued, “I didn't deliberately hide from Fifth Sister-in-law just now. Someone chased me all the way. I had no choice. It was just that Fifth Sister-in-law happened to come over.”

If the three little ones were here, their jaws would probably drop.

Their stinky father was actually so shameless. Their scheming skills were all leftovers from their dear father.

A trace of heartache flashed across Madam Jiang's eyes. “Who chased you?”

Wei Ting said softly, “Fifth Sister-in-law, this is not the place to talk.”

Mdm Jiang thought for a moment. “Alright, follow me back to the residence.”

Wei Ting said, “There's no need to return to the residence…”

Mdm Jiang glared at him and pointed at the courtyard behind him. “Are you going back with me yourself, or should I tie you up with the girl in the house?!”

Wei Ting took a deep breath and sighed faintly. “Fifth Sister-in-law, you've changed. You don't dote on Little Seven anymore.”

Madam Jiang was speechless.

At the Protector Duke's Estate, the Old Duke and Qin Che returned to the residence.

It was already night, but because the two of them returned late, the residence was brightly lit.

The kitchen began to make supper for the masters.

The carriage stopped at the second door. The coachman lifted the curtain.

Qin Che wanted to reach out to help his father, but Qin Canglan rejected him.

Qin Canglan was a general. Why would he need someone to support him when he got off the carriage?

On the other hand, Qin Che was already 16 years old when he returned to the Duke's Estate. He had missed the best opportunity to practice martial arts and could not inherit Qin Canglan's martial arts. It had always been a huge regret in Qin Canglan's heart.

Later on, with Qin Yun, Qin Canglan placed his hopes on his grandson. Unfortunately, Qin Yun's talent was mediocre. Qin Canglan had personally taught him for many years, but he only knew some trifling martial arts.

Qin Canglan had only one son. Qin Che only fathered a son and a daughter. It was unknown if his son and grandson could protect the huge foundation of the Duke's Estate in a hundred years.

“Grandfather, Father!”

Qin Yanran came over with her maidservant.

The two maidservants held lanterns behind them.

Seeing his granddaughter, Qin Canglan's expression finally improved.

Compared to the father and son, this granddaughter was the most surprising in terms of capability. Unfortunately, she was a woman and could not be brought to the battlefield.

Qin Che said, “It's so late. Why aren't you asleep? Where's your mother and brother?”

Qin Yanran said warmly, “Mother has caught a cold these few days and took the medicine prescribed by the doctor. She rested first. Brother… is also asleep. I made an article to show Father.”

Qin Canglan could not interfere in the discussion.

He returned to the courtyard first.

Qin Yanran dismissed the servants.

When Qin Che saw her posture, he had some guesses. “What happened? Did your brother cause trouble again?”

Qin Yun was very good at causing trouble. Most of the time, they dealt with it and kept it from the Old Duke.

Qin Yanran sighed. “He was… taught a lesson by Princess Jingning today.”

“What? Princess Jing Ning has no grudge against us. Why did she teach your brother a lesson?”

Qin Yanran was not present at the time. She only learned about it from Qin Yun and the servants later.

She told him everything that had happened.

“We meet one of the siblings every day. I wonder why my brother is so unlucky to go against the Su siblings.”

He had just been beaten up by Su Xiaoxiao yesterday, and today, he had been beaten up by Princess Jingning for bullying Su Ergou.

It was as if ever since he met the siblings, he had suffered one disaster after another.

Qin Yanran shook her head. “I told him not to interact with those scoundrels, but he just wouldn't listen… I'm afraid this matter can't be hidden from Grandpa. Father has to think of a way to calm Grandpa down as soon as possible… Father, Father?”

Qin Che came back to his senses.

Qin Yanran asked in confusion, “What were you thinking about just now?”

“Ah, nothing,” Qin Che said calmly. “Who do you think those siblings are? Where did they come from?”

Qin Yanran said, “They make snacks. The elder sister's name is Su Daya, and the younger brother's name is Su Ergou. They're from Qingzhou. Other than cooking, the elder sister also knows a little about the Qihuang technique. Now, she's with her master who has been invited to the Marquis of Zhenbei's Estate to treat Granduncle.”

Qin Che was deep in thought. Soon, he shook his head. “I must be thinking too much.”

Qin Yanran said, “Father, what do you mean by thinking too much?”

“No.” Qin Che smiled. “You went to visit your Granduncle. How's his health?”

Qin Yanran's expression was solemn. “Not good.”

Qin Che smiled and patted his daughter's shoulder. “Your Granduncle is a good person. He will definitely be fine.”

Qin Yanran sighed softly. “I hope so.”

Qin Che said to his daughter, “It's late. Settle down.”

“I'll take my leave.” Qin Yanran bowed and turned to return to her courtyard.

Qin Che looked at the dark night sky. “Qingzhou…”

A night breeze blew, and he shivered inexplicably.

Chapter 232

In the end, Wei Ting was “arrested” back to the residence by his fifth sister-in-law.

In the main room of Wutong Courtyard, Old Madam Wei saw Wei Ting, who had been away for a year.

Madam Jiang went out first, leaving only a maidservant serving tea in the room.

Wei Ting bowed to Matriarch Wei. “Grandmother.”

Old Madam Wei said, “Hmph, you still acknowledge me as your grandmother. If not for your Fifth Sister-in-law nabbing you back, I think you would still be living a carefree life outside.”

“Grandmother, Fifth Sister-in-law can't beat me.”

In other words, he had returned voluntarily.

Old Madam Wei did not fall for his tricks. “Your Fifth Sister-in-law said that you were injured? It's fake, right?”

Wei Ting was speechless. He thought to himself privately, “Sigh, give me some leeway.”

Old Madam Wei said disdainfully, “Don't I know you well? You're the most cunning!”

As the youngest son of the family, Wei Ting had grown up under the love of his parents and brothers. The first few brothers were each more honest than the other, but for some reason, when it came to Wei Ting, he became a little fox.

At present, he could not be considered a little fox.

After all, he was 21 years old.

“Where's the Commander's Seal?” Matriarch Wei asked sternly.

Wei Ting sighed melancholically. “Sigh, at least let me ask you how you've been this year and how your body is…”

“Cut the crap!” Matriarch Wei was too skilled, and Wei Ting's sugar-coated bullets were useless against her.

Wei Ting took out the Commander's Seal.

After experiencing the loss of her husband, sons, and grandsons, Matriarch Wei's temperament was already extraordinary. However, the moment she saw the Commander's Seal, her body still swayed slightly.

Wei Ting bowed and raised the commander's seal above his head with both hands. He bowed solemnly. “I was lucky not to disappoint you.”

Old Madam Wei reached out her wrinkled hand and took the Commander's Seal with a trembling hand.

She handed the walking stick to the maidservant beside her and touched the cold and familiar patterns on the Commander's Seal.

The dim candlelight fell into her eyes, and one could vaguely see tears flickering in her eyes.

Wei Ting looked at Matriarch Wei's tears and was silent for a long time before saying in a low voice, “Grandmother, did Grandpa really leave this Commander's Seal behind?”

“Yes, this is our Wei family's last life-saving talisman. You must keep it well.”

Matriarch Wei handed the Commander's Seal back to Wei Ting.

Wei Ting did not hesitate and accepted the Commander's Seal.

The Commander's Seal not only symbolized power but also an undeniable responsibility on his shoulders.

Old Madam Wei said, “I heard that His Highness also went to Qingzhou.”

Wei Ting did not hide it. “He wanted to snatch the Commander's Seal.”

Old Madam Wei said suspiciously, “How did he know about the Wei family's Commander's Seal?”

Wei Ting paused. “I'm not sure.”

“Looks like it was leaked,” Matriarch Wei said. “Other than him, does anyone else know?”

Wei Ting said, “Jing Yi.”

Old Madam Wei thought for a moment and said, “Young Marquis Jing? That's not strange. They're cousins. The Third Prince has always trusted him. Did you meet him in Qingzhou?”

Wei Ting paused. “Sort of.”

Old Madam Wei did not ask in detail how about his “sort of”. Wei Ting was already so old and had his own limits.

The more she let go, the faster he would grow.

“He didn't get rid of you in Qingzhou. When he returns to the capital, he will definitely report you to the emperor. Why didn't you stay obediently in the temple but run into the inner city?”

The Country Protecting Dragon Temple also belonged to the capital, but it was not in the bustling inner city. Instead, it was in the western suburbs of the capital.

Wei Ting avoided discussing his goal and replied, “Grandmother, don't worry. He wouldn't enter the capital so early.”

Xiao Zhonghua dared to poison him. Whether it was to test him or to sincerely seize his life, he was a petty person and held grudges. He had to settle the score.

He was not afraid of letting Xiao Zhonghua know about his relationship with that girl.

He did not hide it. He would not resort to the trope of distancing himself from someone for her own good.

The person he wanted to protect was clearly protected.

He would let everyone know the price of touching her.

“His Highness should be trapped on the water now. He won't be back for ten days to half a month.”

His people would treat Xiao Zhonghua well.

Old Madam Wei did not censure that he actually dared to scheme against the prince and was so rebellious. Their Wei family had once been too honest. What happened in the end?

If her seventh grandchild had not stayed in the capital to become the top scholar instead of going to the battlefield, he would probably have died.

“Where are the three children?” Matriarch Wei asked.

Wei Ting said, “Dahu, Erhu, and Xiaohu are in a safe place. I'll pick them up later. For now, it's better not to attract attention.”

“Dahu, Erhu, Xiaohu?” Matriarch Wei frowned. “You gave them nicknames?”

Chapter 233

Wei Ting's expression did not change. “…Yes.”

Matriarch Wei wanted to see the three children, but when she thought of the situation in the capital, she felt that there was no harm in waiting a little longer. Anyway, she had already waited for two to three years. A few days did not matter.

Old Madam Wei continued, “I heard from your Fifth Sister-in-law that you ruined a girl?”

Wei Ting smiled. “No, Fifth Sister-in-law has misunderstood.”

“It's best if it's a misunderstanding. Don't provoke some shady women outside before you get married!”

“Grandmother, do I look like that kind of person?”

“You don't look like one,” Matriarch Wei said. “You are.”

Wei Ting was speechless. He really couldn't be blamed for his vicious tongue since it ran in the family.

Old Madam Wei did not dwell on this topic for long. “Your cousin's family is here to mention your marriage again. They're asking when you'll renounce asceticism.”

Wei Ting said, “His Majesty didn't issue a decree…”

“Do you really care about that decree?” Matriarch Wei knew this grandson too well. The Emperor had been choked by him for a moment and could not back down. If he really wanted to renounce asceticism, there were many ways.

“Princess Lingxi has already asked for the Empress Dowager's decree. If you give the nod, the Empress Dowager will immediately exempt you from cultivation. Why? Are you unwilling?”

Wei Ting restrained the casualness and unruliness between his eyebrows and said seriously, “Grandmother, I can't marry her.”

Old Madam Wei said, “Are you the one who doesn't want a prenatal marriage? Princess Hui An has taken a fancy to you and wants you to be her husband. You naturally can't be a prince consort. Not to mention that you're unwilling, even if you're willing, I won't agree.”

In the Great Zhou Dynasty, the son-in-law could not enter the dynasty as an official. This meant that Wei Ting would relinquish his position as a general and hand over his military power.

“You're someone Princess Hui An has taken a fancy to. Whoever dares to marry you will have to fight with her for the husband. Other than Princess Lingxi, there's no one else who dares to offend Princess Hui An.”

Wei Ting said calmly, “I wasn't the one who was betrothed to Princess Lingxi before she was born.”

Old Madam Wei said coldly, “Yes, it's your Sixth Brother! But Sixth Brother is gone! As the only man in the Wei family, you, Wei Ting, should shoulder this marriage!”

Wei Ting was silent.

After a long time, he looked into Matriarch Wei's eyes and said shamelessly, “Grandmother, I'm impotent.”

Matriarch Wei was speechless.

–

Outside the door, Madam Jiang, Madam Lan, and Madam Chen lay at the door sneakily. They either pressed their ears against the crack or pressed their eyes into it.

“What are you guys doing?”

A stern voice suddenly came from behind. The three of them were shocked and stood up in unison. They turned around and greeted him awkwardly.

“Sister-in-law, Second Sister-in-law.”

The person who spoke just now was Sister-in-law Chu.

The person who came with her was Second Sister-in-law, Madam Li.

Madam Chu was unsmiling. At home, other than Old Madam Wei, she was the most dignified.

She asked, “Is Little Seven back?”

Madam Jiang whispered, “He's talking to Grandmother inside.”

Madam Chu glanced at the three of them, who clearly had strange expressions. “What's wrong with you? Your expressions are so strange.”

Fourth Sister-in-law, Madam Lan, said with red eyes, “Sister-in-law, Little Seven…”

Madam Chu frowned. “What happened to him?”

Madam Lan choked. “He's impotent… No wonder he's not close to women even though he's so old…”

Wei Ting, who had just opened the door and was “impotent” was speechless.

The sisters-in-law were extremely embarrassed.

Wei Ting had a calm expression. He greeted his sisters-in-law generously and left calmly.

Madam Lan wanted to cry even more. “He even pretended to be strong…”

In the darkness, Wei Ting staggered.

Old Madam Wei called Madam Chu in and sent the others back to sleep.

“What do you think?”

Old Madam Wei asked Madam Chu.

Matriarch Wei did not hide details of the conversation between the grandmother and grandchild.

Her daughter-in-law had a calm personality and was untainted by the secular world. It was Madam Chu who supported the backyard with her.

Madam Chu said, “Is Grandmother referring to Little Seven? Is he really…”

Old Madam Wei said angrily, “Hmph, only he can say such nonsense! Shameless little thing!”

Madam Chu smiled. The corners of her lips were extremely faint as if she had never smiled.

She said, “Looks like Little Seven really doesn't want to marry Princess Lingxi. In my opinion, let's forget about this marriage.”

Old Madam Wei said angrily, “What can we do? Tie him up in the bridal sedan? Give him a bowl of knockout powder and send him to the bridal chamber. When he wakes up, do you believe that he can throw Princess Lingxi into the river?”

Wei Ting would really do such a thing.

Although he acted like a proper and especially humane flower in the countryside, there was no room for him to show off.

Moreover, he was also holding it in front of the simple villagers.

Wei Ting had always been merciless to the descendants of the aristocratic families in the capital.

The young man was originally frivolous.

Especially after the change in the Wei family, Wei Ting's saber and sword had been fed blood on the battlefield. When he returned to the capital, he looked more cold-blooded and vicious.

Wei Ting was even more difficult to provoke.

Old Madam Wei frowned. “No, we can't spoil him like this. He's lawless! He won't marry just like that? How old is he? Does he want to be a bachelor for the rest of his life? Why doesn't he take a look at his market value? It's not his place to be picky.”

Madam Chu said nothing.

Little Seven's market… was not bad. On the contrary, it was too good.

Many women in the capital had their hearts broken for him, but who dared to snatch a man from the princess?

Old Madam Wei called the secret guard who had followed Wei Ting back to the capital over. “Little Seven really didn't provoke any indecent women outside, right?”

The secret guard said, “No, Young Master is very clean and never allows those indecent people to approach.”

Old Madam Wei was quite satisfied.

The secret guard said, “Young Master only let one woman approach.”

Old Madam Wei was stunned. “What? What woman?”

The secret guard said in a daze, “Didn't Young Master tell you? He was chased in Qingzhou and was seriously injured. He was captured and became a lived-in son-in-law.”

Madam Chu was shocked. “Son-in-law?”

The secret guard nodded and repeated the nonsense he had heard from Yuchi Xiu. “Young Master was quite happy as a lived-in son-in-law. He's was happy living off a woman and doesn't even want to come back.”

Madam Chu gasped!

Old Madam Wei's walking stick hit the ground heavily. “Wei Xi Chao!”

Chapter 234

At this moment, Su Xiaoxiao still didn't know that Wei Ting had been captured and brought back to the Wei family.

She entered the pharmacy again.

She guessed that it was because she had treated a critical patient that the pharmacy came to reward her again.

She was looking forward to what medicine it would be this time.

However, what puzzled her was that there were no medicine or health supplements on the table in the lounge at all. There was only an extremely ordinary pair of gloves.

It was a little thicker than cotton gloves, a little thinner than insulation gloves, and its fingers were well-defined.

Su Xiaoxiao was speechless.

She slept a lot during the day and was not sleepy at night. She woke up just after midnight.

Su Xiaoxiao looked at the gloves by the pillow and chuckled. “Is this for me to cook? Are you afraid of hurting my hand?”

There was no need to make snacks for a while. She became very free in the morning.

She kneaded the noodles first, steamed a pot of white steamed buns and cornmeal cornbread, roasted two sweet potatoes, and boiled a few eggs.

She had almost finished the peanut butter and sesame sauce she had brought from the countryside on the way. Later, she had to go to the market to buy peanuts and sesame seeds.

When Wei Ting returned, he would grind the sauce…

When the sweet potato was almost roasted, Su Xiaoxiao pulled it out of the stove with tongs.

While waiting for the air to cool, she went to clean up the courtyard.

Zhong Shan sent firewood again.

Zhong Shan wanted to help clean up the courtyard. Su Xiaoxiao looked at his hunched back and gestured with sign language. “No need, I'll do it myself.”

Zhong Shan was slightly stunned as if he was very surprised that Su Xiaoxiao knew sign language.

Not only was he mute, but he was also deaf. However, he knew how to read lips. As long as ordinary people did not call him from behind, they would not notice that he was deaf.

As for speaking sign language, fewer people would use it with him.

He didn't use it with others. He wrote when he needed to communicate.

Although they were all expressions, sign language and writing had different meanings, especially for deaf people.

Su Xiaoxiao continued, “I made a pot of snacks yesterday and left two boxes for you.”

While Zhong Shan was still immersed in the shock of Su Xiaoxiao actually communicating with him in sign language, Su Xiaoxiao had already entered the house and taken out the snacks.

Su Xiaoxiao handed the box to him and said, “A box of sweet and savory food.”

When Zhong Shan came out of the courtyard with snacks, his eyes were a little moist.

While Su Xiaoxiao sat in the kitchen eating sweet potatoes, a round head poked in.

“Dahu?” Su Xiaoxiao was surprised.

“Mother.” Dahu entered the kitchen.

“So early? Do you want to pee?” Su Xiaoxiao put down the sweet potato and wanted to take him to the toilet.

He shook his head and handed the headband to Su Xiaoxiao.

“You're not sleeping anymore?” Su Xiaoxiao asked.

“I'm not sleeping anymore,” Dahu said in a childish voice.

Su Xiaoxiao smiled and took the headband, letting him sit on her lap. Her fingers circled his soft hair and tied it up bit by bit.

“Why are you up so early?” she asked.

“Walking the foal,” Dahu said.

Dahu was a responsible child. Every time he walked the foal, his two brothers would skive. He was the only one who persisted seriously.

The foal that was more than two months old looked very strong. It was impossible to tell that it was once a premature foal.

Seeing Dahu come over, it jumped up happily.

Su Xiaoxiao accompanied Dahu to walk the foal.

Dahu held the reins in one hand and half a sweet potato in the other. He nibbled on it with his glutinous rice-like teeth.

It had only been a few days since she moved in, and Su Xiaoxiao was not familiar with the neighbors in the alley. However, it was strange that they knew Dahu!

“It's Dahu, right? He's here to walk a horse again.”

An auntie who was sweeping leaves at the entrance of the courtyard said.

Dahu greeted politely, “Grandma Zhao.”

“Hey!” Auntie Zhao smiled and said, “How obedient. Eh? Who is this?”

She looked at Su Xiaoxiao.

Dahu puffed out his chest and said, “My mother.”

Auntie Zhao was dumbfounded. “Ah… This, this… young mother… is blessed.”

She could just say that she was fat.

Su Xiaoxiao greeted politely, “Auntie Zhao.”

“Hey, hey!” Aunt Zhao nodded repeatedly.

After that, they met a few neighbors. As expected, Dahu knew all of them and took the initiative to introduce his mother to them.

Su Xiaoxiao was confused.

How did he manage to identify all the neighbors in the alley within three days?

Could this be the legendary socially awesome disease?

Among the three little fellows, Erhu spoke the best. She had always thought that if there was really a popularity contest in the alley, it would be Erhu who would be crowned the winner.

Dahu must have been hiding his strength.

“No one lives in this house.”

“It's the same for this house.”

As Dahu walked, he introduced the neighbors to Su Xiaoxiao.

“How do you know?” Su Xiaoxiao asked. “Maybe they were just going out to visit their relatives and will be back in a few days?”

“Grandma Zhao said so,” Dahu said.

Su Xiaoxiao was even more stunned.

She could not help but think of Dahu with a milky face, squatting on the ground and chatting seriously with the aunties and women…

How did Su Ergou watch the children?

At the end of the alley, Dahu pointed at the house in the east and said, “There's a nice sound.”

Su Xiaoxiao asked, “Oh? Is there?”

Dahu said, “During the day.”

Su Xiaoxiao couldn't imagine what kind of sound Dahu was talking about, but she did hear an awful sound.

Under a big tree not far away, a man in a green robe was holding the tree and retching.

In his other hand was an old zither case.

“Do you know him?” Su Xiaoxiao asked Dahu.

Dahu tilted his head and looked at him. “I've never seen him.”

“Wait for me here,” Su Xiaoxiao said and walked towards him.

He did not smell of alcohol. If he was not drunk, he was retching due to an illness.

“You…”

Su Xiaoxiao was about to ask when his hand slipped and the case fell.

There were a few angular rocks on the ground. If the case was smashed, it might break into pieces.

He hurriedly went to scoop up the case, but he was a step too late.

Just as the case was about to land, a pair of fair and chubby hands held it in time.

“Phew, I caught it!” Su Xiaoxiao took a deep breath and looked at him. “Where are you feeling unwell?”

The other party didn't answer. He only glanced at Su Xiaoxiao and didn't even thank her. He took the zither case and staggered into the house in the east.

Su Xiaoxiao raised her eyebrows. “Oh, is Dahu's pleasant sound the sound of the zither?”

Early in the morning.

A luxurious carriage stopped at the east end of Pear Blossom Lane.

The coachman lifted the curtain.

Qin Yanran walked down with a zither.

She raised her hand and gently knocked on the courtyard door.

She had come a little early today and was worried that her teacher had not woken up. She was about to return to the carriage to wait when she realized that the courtyard door was not bolted. She knocked lightly and opened it.

She entered the courtyard.

She saw a young man in green under the corridor.

The man sat on a rattan chair and wiped a zither with clean silk.

She bowed and curtsied for the first time.

The other party did not even look at her and carried the zither into the room.

Qin Yanran frowned.

Who was this man? She had never seen him before.

Could this be the elusive eldest disciple under his master?

Now that she thought about it, she had to call him senior brother.

“Yanran.”

Master Zhang walked over from the corridor.

Master Zhang was 30 years old this year and was once the Imperial Zither Master of the palace. He even taught the princesses how to play the zither.

To be under his name, the Protector Duke had used many connections.

Of course, if they were only banking on relationship and her aptitude and talent were not enough, he would not take her in as a disciple.

Qin Yanran was the only female disciple he had taught other than the princesses. Her musical talent was even more outstanding than the royal princesses.

“Teacher.” Qin Yanran bowed.

Zhang Qinshi said, “Let's go to the zither room. I'll come over later.”

“Yes.”

Qin Yanran originally wanted to ask about her Eldest Senior Brother, but she thought better of it.

After Su Xiaoxiao and Dahu slipped away, they went to the Marquis of Zhenbei's Estate.

Physician Fu had been there for two days. It was time to rotate him back to rest.

The Old Marquis must have been agitated during the day and had a high fever at night. Physician Fu gave him some fever medicine left behind by Su Xiaoxiao.

The Old Marquis's pulse was much smoother than the first day, and his complexion visibly recovered.

However, he could no longer get out of bed like the day before.

If he was sick, he had to recuperate carefully. Otherwise, it was easy for everything to go down the drain.

The Old Marquis went out yesterday not because he had improved to the point where he could go out, but purely because his willpower was strong and he dragged his sickly body over.

If it were any other old man or woman, they would have long collapsed on the bed in death.

Physician Fu was extremely sleepy. Su Mo arranged a room for him to stay next door to the Old Marquis. He did not have to run around.

“Sure,” Su Xiaoxiao said.

Little Quanzi looked at Su Xiaoxiao strangely.

This disciple often overstepped her boundaries and made decisions for his master.

Su Mo's expression did not change at all. He instructed, “Clean up the room next door.”

“Yes.” Little Quanzi scratched his head and agreed. He went to tidy up the room in a daze.

Physician Fu was so sleepy that his eyelids fluttered. He could sleep anywhere, but he was not picky.

“Shall we go to the study?” Su Mo said.

The two of them went to the study.

As soon as he sat down, a guard rushed over.

He was about to enter when he saw Su Xiaoxiao in the room and paused.

“Come in,” Su Mo said.

The guard bowed and cupped his fists. “Eldest Young Master.”

Su Mo asked, “Did you find anything?”

Seeing that his eldest young master was not hiding anything from that girl, the guard told him the clues he had found over the past few days.

Chapter 235

It was about the Old Marquis being poisoned.

Su Mo investigated from the residence. He asked his trusted guard to carefully investigate all the servants in the residence who had the chance to come into contact with the Old Marquis's food and drink. He did not find anything unusual, so he ruled out the possibility of the attack being committed in the residence.

From this point, at least it meant that the interior of Marquis Manor was safe. The investigation turned toward the ingredients from outside the residence. The huge Duke Mansion had dozens of ingredients every day, and this did not include the oil, salt, soy sauce, and vinegar rice that they bought regularly…

This was a huge project. Fortunately, the heavens did not disappoint. Finally, this morning, his trusted guard caught a butcher selling meat.

“It's a butcher surnamed Hu.”

The trusted guard said, “The Old Marquis likes to eat meat. He has been buying meat at his shop for the past few years and nothing has gone wrong.”

Su Mo asked, “Is there a problem with this butcher?”

The trusted guard shook his head. “No, there's nothing wrong with him. It's the dumpling leaf he used to penetrate the flesh that was soaked in poison. In order not to be discovered, the dosage was very small. It won't cause any harm if one eats it once or twice, but it's hard to say for a month or two.”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Why isn't anyone else poisoned?”

The trusted guard replied, “The Old Marquis only likes to eat the most tender rib meat. Every time, it would be prepared for the Old Marquis alone. The chefs in the residence occasionally steal a bite, but firstly, that would not account for much. Secondly, there are several chefs in our residence so the same chef does not eat it every time. However, they've been a little dizzy recently. They just thought that they were too tired and didn't take it to heart.”

It seemed that he had been poisoned over time.

Su Mo asked, “Where's the vendor selling dumpling leaves?”

The trusted guard said awkwardly, “I caught him… but I didn't watch him closely. I wasn't careful and let him bite his tongue to commit suicide.”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Ordinary people can't bite off their tongues.”

This was a trap specially set up for the Old Marquis, no, perhaps for the entire estate of the Marquis of Zhenbei.

Su Mo was clearly not satisfied with this outcome. He was not angry and still looked gentle. However, Su Xiaoxiao's sharp eyes noticed that the guard's forehead was starting to sweat.

This eldest young master of the Su family was not as simple as he looked.

“However…” The trusted guard panted and was secretly glad that he did not stop. He continued to investigate.

“That person's name is Xiangzi. He came to the capital last October. At the end of the month, he came with a caravan. Then, he somehow broke up with the caravan and lived on the streets. Later on, he worked for a provision shop. The dumpling leaves were sold from that shop.”

“There's no problem with the shop for the time being. However, according to the waiter in the shop, Xiangzi has a lover in a big family. Once, the waiter bumped into him. Xiangzi threatened him not to tell anyone, or else he would be killed.”

Su Mo frowned. “Which big family?”

The trusted guard hesitated for a moment and said, “The Protector Duke's Estate.”

After the trusted guard left, Su Mo fell into deep thought.

“What are you thinking about?” Su Xiaoxiao asked.

Su Mo said with a serious expression, “Last October, something big happened in the Marquis of Zhenbei.”

Su Xiaoxiao looked at him and gestured for him to continue.

Su Mo said, “Grandfather and Father had a big fight in the study. That day was Grandmother's birthday banquet and many guests came. Grandfather threatened to abolish Father's position as the heir. This news spread. Just as Grandfather broke off relations with Father, a ‘vendor' came to poison Grandfather. I think this might not be a coincidence.”

“Why are they arguing?” Su Xiaoxiao asked.

Su Mo said seriously, “Father suggested that the ancestral shrine be moved to the capital. Grandpa didn't agree and threw a huge tantrum. Actually, it's just a matter of anger. How can father and son have overnight grudges? However, rumors are terrifying. In the aristocratic families, there are countless sisters, brothers, and father-son grudges.”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Oh.”

Su Mo glanced at her and said, “If you hadn't discovered that my grandfather was poisoned in time, the worst outcome would have been that my grandfather is no longer around. All kinds of evidence pointing to my father killing his father to protect his title would have jumped out.”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Oh.”

Su Mo was speechless.

Su Mo opened the small food box on the table and pushed it to her.

“Huh?” Su Xiaoxiao looked at the jar full of smashed walnuts and blinked strangely.

“Don't you like to eat this?” Su Mo asked.

Su Xiaoxiao picked one up and flipped it around.

Was this really a smashed walnut?

Which person suffering from obsessive-compulsive disorder did it?

It was too complete!

Su Xiaoxiao took a bite.

“How's Uncle's condition?” Su Mo asked.

When they left yesterday, Su Cheng was still unconscious. They could tell that Su Cheng had been agitated. In order not to cause Su Cheng's agitation again, they decided to return to the residence first.

Otherwise, with the Old Marquis's personality, he would have brought Su Cheng's family back.

Su Xiaoxiao explained Father Su's situation concisely.

Su Mo was silent for a long time before he said, “It's good that he doesn't remember.”

He could roughly guess what that painful memory was.

Grandaunt used her life to stall the assassin in exchange for a chance of survival for her biological flesh and blood.

It was very likely that Su Cheng had witnessed his mother being cruelly killed.

He was only a six-year-old child at that time. This scene would be difficult for anyone to bear.

Neither of them mentioned letting Father Su recover his memory. Restoring his memory was only painful and had no benefits. As for whether there would be any clues to find the murderers in Father Su's memory…

Were they dead?

Or were they so incompetent that they needed to use a method that would torment Father Su to find clues?

Su Xiaoxiao wouldn't allow anyone to hurt Father Su, including herself.

Father Su had already suffered too much. She didn't want him to be sad for the rest of his life.

She would shoulder the grudge from his past.

She would not let any of those people off.

At Pear Blossom Lane, after Xiaohu and Erhu woke up, Dahu showed off to his two stinky brothers the sweet times when he and his mother walked the foal and ate roasted sweet potatoes together.

The two brothers were jealous and ran to the door. Unexpectedly, after waiting for half a day, their mother did not return.

The two of them felt aggrieved and were about to cry.

Dahu said, “Hehehe!”

It was their fault for staying in bed.

Erhu and Xiaohu were fierce.

Their brother was so annoying today!

“Alright, alright, don't be angry. Grandpa will roast sweet potatoes for you.”

Su Cheng went to the kitchen and roasted two big black sweet potatoes.

Erhu and Xiaohu refused in their hearts, but seeing that their grandfather's face was blackened by the stove ash, they still reached out and took a roasted sweet potato…

Ugh.

It tasted so bad…

Then, Su Cheng brought the three little ones to the alley.

Qin Canglan had just returned from a trip.

He happened to pass by Scholar Street and remembered that his granddaughter seemed to be learning the zither in Pear Blossom Lane.

“To Pear Blossom Lane,” he said to the coachman.

Chapter 236

The place where Qin Yanran learned the zither was the first house at the east end of Pear Blossom Lane. This was Qin Canglan's first time here, but the coachman was clearly familiar with the place. He parked the carriage at the side with ease.

The melodious sound of the zither came from the courtyard. Qin Canglan did not know music, so the sound of playing the zither and cotton was no different to him.

He waited in the carriage for a while. The coachman asked if he wanted to go in and ask, but he refused.

He was a boor. It was not easy for him to have a talented girl at home. He had to treasure her and not disturb his granddaughter from learning the zither.

However, the tune was really a little hypnotic. He felt sleepy and decided to come down for a walk.

As soon as he got off the ground, he sensed a rustling sound.

The general's intuition in him instantly made him wary. Over the years, he had made many enemies. Out of ten people, seven or eight probably wanted his life.

Still…

It was not so easy to take his life!

He touched the dagger at his waist and walked towards the slightly swaying tree.

If Su Xiaoxiao was here, she would definitely recognize that this was the big tree where she had seen a man holding a zither and retching when she was walking the foal with Dahu in the morning.

The commotion on the tree came from Dahu.

Dahu had already walked the foal in the morning. Now, he did not want to walk it with his brothers a second time. He slipped away quietly.

He was very curious about the tune coming from this house. Coincidentally, he had learned to climb trees.

Qin Canglan looked at the swaying leaves above his head and snorted coldly. “Sneaky! Who are you? Hand over your life!”

He was extremely tall and burly. Even though he was old, his body was still tall and straight.

Ordinary people might not even be able to jump up. He reached out and pushed it away.

Then, he saw a sticky ball. The ball had a round face and big black grape-like eyes. His eyebrows were filled with heroic spirit, and there was a thin layer of sweat on the tip of his nose from climbing the tree. His small mouth was slightly open.

Recently, he had been drooling because of his teething.

Dahu was caught. He hugged the tree trunk and looked at him in a daze, like a round little Iron-eating Beast.

Qin Canglan was stunned.

His grip loosened.

The branch he pressed down flicked and Dahu was sent flying!

Qin Canglan's eyes flickered. He flew up and held Dahu, who was hugging his head in midair and curling up into a small ball.

This child had such a strong survival instinct!

Qin Canglan landed steadily with Dahu in his arms.

To Qin Canglan's surprise, not only was the little guy in his arms not frightened to tears, but he also looked at him excitedly.

It was as if he was saying: Again! Again!

Qin Canglan suddenly smiled. “You're quite bold.”

If he was not so bold, he would not have climbed such a tall tree at such a young age.

“Where do you live?” Qin Canglan asked.

Dahu did not answer him immediately. Instead, he blinked and looked down.

Wow.

So high.

Qin Canglan said, “Where do you live? I'll send you back.”

Qin Canglan looked very fierce, the kind that could scare children to tears when he was serious.

Dahu pointed at his house obediently.

Qin Canglan frowned. “You don't know how to speak?”

Dahu blinked.

Qin Canglan had never been popular with children. When the children saw him, they were so frightened that they did not dare to speak.

He stopped asking.

He bent down and planned to place Dahu on the ground.

Dahu curled his little feet up and refused to touch the ground.

Qin Canglan was helpless and could only pick Dahu up again.

Strange, wasn't this child scared silly by him? Few children dared to let him carry them.

On the other hand, when Su Cheng returned home and realized that there was one less child, he was so frightened that his hair stood on end!

Su Cheng still felt a lingering fear when he recalled the experience of the three of them escaping into the mountains to hide.

However, Su Ergou had gone out to buy groceries again. There was no one at home to watch the house, and he could not leave Erhu and Xiaohu at home and go out to look for Dahu himself.

Just as he was in a terrible fix, a tall and burly old man with white hair carried Dahu into the courtyard.

It was a little inappropriate to call him an old man. Although this person had a white beard and white hair, his tall figure and steady footsteps could easily beat that of a young man.

It was not an exaggeration to describe him as a treasured saber that had not aged.

He was dressed like a martial artist and was wearing black boots. There was a ferocious saber with a totem hanging on his waist. He looked very fierce!

Father Su calculated in his heart. He could only be a village tyrant in the countryside. So he was missing a set of equipment…

Father Su reluctantly looked away. He would make a set for himself later…

Father Su went to fetch Dahu.

Dahu sighed like an adult and extended his hand to his grandfather.

“Where did you go just now? Did you run around again?” Father Su asked Dahu solemnly.

Dahu's eyes darted around as he twisted his butt and ran to the backyard!

Su Cheng gritted his teeth. “This child! I'll tell your mother later!”

Only Su Cheng and Qin Canglan were left in the courtyard.

Su Cheng had always been clear about gratitude and grudges. Since he had sent Dahu back, he had to thank him no matter what.

Su Cheng said seriously, “Thank you for sending my grandson back.”

Qin Cang trembled. “Is that your grandson?”

“That's right.” Su Cheng raised his eyebrows and raised his tabby face which he thought was extremely handsome but was actually covered in ashes. “Although I look young, I'm already 37 years old this year!”

Country bumpkins got married early. They were fathers in their teens and grandfathers in their thirties.

Qin Canglan paused. “Thirty-seven. You're the same age as my son.”

Su Cheng sized him up and said pertinently, “Then you look a little anxious.”

Qin Canglan was dumbfounded.

Su Cheng asked, “Are you a neighbor here?”

Qin Canglan said, “I was passing by. My granddaughter is learning the zither nearby, so I came over to take a walk.”

“Oh.” Su Cheng moved a small stool and sat down. He also handed him a small stool. “My daughter also learned the zither for a few days when she was young.”

Qin Canglan sat down on the small stool. It was already very comical for Su Cheng to sit in a small stool. He was more burly than Su Cheng and was like a hill pressing down on the stool.

“Is that so?” He tried to adjust to the stool.

Su Cheng said, “That's right. She was very talented and learned too quickly. The teachers couldn't teach her, so they expelled her.”

Qin Canglan muttered,” Young man, you're bragging a little too much.”

Su Cheng was indeed bragging.

His fat daughter had never even touched it, let alone learn the zither. It was difficult for country bumpkins to fill their stomachs. How could she have the money to learn the zither?

“Eh? You like grapefruit too?”

Qin Canglan noticed a grapefruit tree in the courtyard.

Su Cheng waved his hand. “Oh, I planted it blindly. I can't eat it. If I eat it, I'll have rashes all over my body.”

Qin Canglan was stunned. “What a coincidence. My son too!”

“Oh.” Su Cheng did not care about his son.

Su Cheng glanced at him and asked, “You should have quite a big appetite, right?”

Qin Canglan was thinking, “What kind of question is that?”

Su Cheng coughed lightly and picked up the small dustpan at the side. “Thank you for saving Dahu. There's nothing to entertain you with. Try the sweet potatoes roasted at home.”

He wanted Qin Canglan finish it so that he wouldn't have to eat it!

Qin Canglan looked at the black lumps in the dustpan and seriously suspected that he had handed him a few pieces of charcoal.

“It's very delicious.” Su Cheng worked hard.

Qin Canglan picked up a sweet potato.

Su Cheng continued, “Our family is not interested in wasting food.”

Qin Canglan was someone who had eaten tree roots and Guanyin clay. He was not picky about food.

Although it did look a little bad, it was a sweet potato after all. How bad could it be?

Qin Canglan took a bite casually.

In the next second, his body trembled, and a powerful energy rushed to the top of his head!

Chapter 237

Su Cheng's normal attempts at culinary feats were relatively unpalatable, but today, he performed exceptionally.

Qin Canglan seemed to have been struck by lightning, which rolled across his body, and even every strand of white hair was burned.

The last time he had eaten such bad food was when his first wife was alive.

The big man looked like he could eat a lot… Su Cheng calmly placed all the roasted sweet potatoes on his lap.

Qin Canglan choked on the roasted sweet potato that was difficult to swallow.

Not long after, Su Ergou returned with his burden.

He went to the market to buy a basket of dried goods. There were peanuts, sesame seeds, some dried mushrooms, and yellow cauliflower. He originally wanted to buy dried plum vegetables, but he was late and they were all sold out.

In the countryside, not many people liked dried plum vegetables, except when they were stuffed in Su Ji's dried plum vegetable pancakes.

The other basket contained food for the foal. There were corn cobs, barley, and some tender grass and beans.

“Dad, I'm back!”

Su Ergou placed the burden on the ground and saw an additional man in the courtyard. The man had white hair and a beard. He looked about the same age as Old Master Su in the countryside, but he was much stronger and burly than him.

“Dad, we have a guest?”

Su Ergou asked.

“Oh, Dahu sneaked out just now. It was this… Grandpa who sent Dahu back.” Su Cheng suddenly realized that he did not know how to address him.

Qin Canglan thought for a moment and said, “My surname is Qin.”

“Oh.” Su Cheng rubbed his hands. Why did he especially want to extort this person…

Qin Canglan did not know what Su Cheng was thinking. He looked at Su Ergou.

Su Ergou was tanned and had pure black skin. Compared to those pink-headed young masters in the capital, Qin Canglan felt that a child like Su Ergou looked more pleasing to the eye.

For some reason, he thought of Qin Yun.

Qin Yun was about the same age as the child in front of him, but it was obvious that Qin Yun was much weaker. He had practiced martial arts since he was young. Not only had he learned not learned much, but his body was not strong either. He was afraid of the cold and heat. If he was not careful, he would fall ill.

Su Ergou first placed the dry goods in the kitchen and brought a bucket over to make feed for the foal.

He held a heavy bucket in each hand. It was obvious that he often worked. His arm strength was extremely good, and his lower body was stable.

“Are you going to feed the horses?” Qin Canglan asked.

The Qin family's cavalry was very powerful. Qin Canglan had interacted with many horses. When he saw what Su Ergou was preparing, he deduced that it was the horse's feed.

Su Ergou said, “Yes.”

Qin Canglan asked, “Are there no alkaline straw and medick?”

“What?” Su Ergou had never heard of it.

Qin Canglan said, “These are two types of grass. Horses can become stronger after eating them.”

As Su Ergou mixed the feed, he said, “Oh, then I'll look for it at the market next time.”

It was probably not sold in the market…

This kind of grass was extremely rare in the capital. The Qin family had their own ranch that was especially used to raise warhorses in the military camp.

While Qin Canglan was deep in thought, Su Ergou went to the backyard to bring the foal over.

Qin Canglan glanced around and paused. “This horse…”

Su Ergou touched the foal's neck. “Oh, you're talking about it. It's very beautiful, right? My sister bought it. When she first bought it, it was thin and small. It was a premature horse cub. The villagers said that it couldn't be raised alive. Isn't this quite good!”

The foal puffed out its chest and jumped twice valiantly.

Qin Canglan's eyes moved slightly.

This was a desert warhorse that was better than a Ferghana horse.

“Can I… touch it?” Qin Canglan asked.

The only thing that could appeal to a cavalry commander was a warhorse.

“Oh, sure.” Su Ergou patted the foal and brought it to Qin Canglan.

The foal was very obedient.

Qin Canglan touched its mane and bones.

It was a purebred desert horse!

Qin Canglan was excited.

Such horses were very rare in the Great Zhou. There were a few in the Southwest Prince's Mansion, but it was said that they had all died in battle.

In the Great Zhou, the most common warhorses were Mongolian horses and Ferghana horses.

Mongol horses were resistant to the cold and had extremely strong survival and recovery abilities. When necessary, they could provide horse blood to the soldiers and were the most commonly used warhorses in the north.

However, the Mongolian horse was relatively short, and its explosive power and jumping ability were not outstanding.

The explosive power of a Ferghana horse was much stronger. Moreover, a Ferghana horse could travel a thousand miles a day and had astonishing endurance. The disadvantage was that it was not as cold-resistant as a Mongolian horse, which was also resistant to heat and was suitable for fighting in the desert.

Moreover, the Ferghana horse was not tall and its carrying ability was poor. It was used more in light cavalry; it would be too difficult for it to support heavy calvary.

Desert horses were the most comprehensive warhorses. They could support light or heavy cavalry. Most importantly, they had extraordinary calmness on the battlefield.

“This kind of horse… should be very difficult to buy…” Qin Canglan said.

Su Ergou said, “It was originally not allowed to be sold. The mare was dead, and it was about to die. The people at the courier station decided to do some good. They sold it to my sister.”

Qin Canglan nodded, but at the same time, he was very surprised.

He had dealt with horses for many years and naturally understood that a foal could not survive without a mare.

Other mares would only feed their young, and might even attack foals that were not their own.

In addition, without the comfort of a mare, some foals would fast.

It was a miracle to be able to keep it alive.

“It cost a lot of silver, right?” he asked. Even if it was a dying desert foal, it was…

Su Ergou said with heartache, “That's right. It cost my sister 40 taels!”

Qin Canglan almost choked to death on a sweet potato!

“What did you say? ”

“40, 40 taels? ”

“Are you sure it's not 400 taels? ”

He, Qin Canglan, was willing to spend 4,000 taels to buy this horse!

Su Ergou mixed the feed and brought the foal over to eat.

Qin Canglan said, “I think this feed is a little rough…”

The foal probably wouldn't like it.

In the next second, Qin Canglan saw the pony plunge into its small wooden food trough and eat!

It was an obedient horse and was not picky!

Qin Canglan's expression was indescribable.

To Qin Canglan, who loved horses as much as his life, watching Su Ergou feed such a precious horse with rough feed was no less shocking than seeing the Minister of the Imperial Household feed the crown prince pig feed.

Qin Canglan felt terrible!

On the other side, Su Xiaoxiao and Su Mo began to investigate the Protectorate.

They mainly started from three aspects. One was that lover. This was a little difficult. The waiter did not see the other party's appearance clearly, so they could only take it slow.

Secondly, he wanted to check if the Guardian Duke, Qin Canglan, was related to the accident back then.

The third was Qin Che.

When Qin Che came to the capital to acknowledge his kinship with the Duke's Protectorate, he was already 16 years old. It was impossible for him not to know.

Unless he was an orphan and didn't remember what he had been through before he was six years old, it was impossible for him to be brainwashed into believing that he was the real Qin Che.

In the former, he took the initiative to hide the truth. In the latter case, he was complicit.

But no matter what, Qin Che had definitely lied.

This was because Qin Che's original words to the Protector Duke's Estate were, “I lost a jade pendant. Fortunately, this piece has always been on me.”

Chapter 238

After class, Qin Yanran came out with the zither.

She saw her grandfather's carriage at a glance.

The coachman bowed. “Miss.”

Qin Yanran asked, “Did Grandpa ask you to pick me up?”

The coachman said, “Old Master came over personally.”

Qin Yanran's eyes lit up.

His grandfather doted on the siblings very much, but his grandfather was not good at expressing himself and could not do these warm actions.

Qin Yanran enjoyed it. Just as she was about to get into the carriage and bow to her grandfather, she heard the coachman say, “Old Master just saved a child and sent him home.”

“Where's the child?”

“I think… it's in this alley. I didn't notice which family it was.”

He could not stare at the Old Duke's back. Moreover, the Old Duke's footsteps were too fast. In the blink of an eye, he was gone.

Since it was from the alley, it shouldn't take long.

Qin Yanran got into the carriage and waited for her grandfather.

Unexpectedly, she waited until her hands and feet were cold, but her grandfather did not come over.

Qin Canglan was in the Su family's front yard, feeding the foal with Su Ergou. He completely forgot what he was here for.

It was said among ten generals, nine would be reticent. That was because they had never met anyone with whom they could chat.

Su Ergou was at the age of curiosity and was intoxicated by Qin Canglans stories. He dreamed of riding a tall horse one day.

“What do you want to know… Come, let me tell you.”

Qin Canglan spoke for a full two hours.

He spoke about everything from the feeding of horses to the breed of horses, to the domestication of horses. In the end, for some reason, the topic changed to the battlefield.

What horse was suitable for charging? What horse was suitable for raiding at night?

Qin Canglan had also told Qin Yun about this, but the latter did not like to hear it.

Su Cheng watched as the two of them talked about horses and treated him as air. His face darkened. Were they still eating sweet potatoes?

Don't just talk!

Hurry up and finish the charred black sweet potato!

It was already two hours after Qin Canglan left the Su family. Su Cheng was grateful that he had taught Su Ergou how to feed the horse.

As a thank-you, Su Cheng offered a thank-you gift: a pack of roasted sweet potatoes that were already cold.

He had finally given them away!

Qin Canglan returned to the carriage and realized that he had completely forgotten about Qin Yanran.

He looked at Qin Yanran, whose lips were purple from the cold, and coughed awkwardly. “You don't have to wait for me next time. Go back yourself.”

Back at the residence, Qin Che had just returned.

The three of them met at the door.

An Imperial Physician followed behind Qin Che.

Qin Canglan asked, “Why did you invite the imperial physician?”

Qin Che's eyes flashed. He did not dare to tell her that Qin Yun had been taught a lesson by Princess Jingning. He only said awkwardly, “Yun'er has caught a cold. I invited the Imperial Physician to take a look at him.”

Qin Canglan frowned.

This grandson's body was too weak. He should not have been spoiled like this. Look at the child in Pear Blossom Lane. He was as strong as a calf and had firm skin…

When Qin Che was young, he was also tough. He would go up out of the house every other day and climb trees. Perhaps he had suffered too much among the commoners. After returning to the capital, he was not as tough as when he was young.

The young man in the alley looked good.

Strange.

Why did he keep thinking of the father and son in Pear Blossom Lane?

Qin Canglan turned around and returned to his courtyard.

Qin Che looked at his father's departing back strangely. He felt that his father was different from usual today…

He looked at the pale Qin Yanran and asked, “What's wrong?”

“It's cold.” Qin Yanran felt wronged and told him about waiting for her grandfather in the carriage for more than two hours.

Qin Che comforted her, “Since your grandfather was gone for so long, he must have something urgent.”

Qin Yanran nodded. She was a junior, so she naturally did not dare to say anything bad about her elders.

“Achoo!”

She sneezed heavily.

She seemed to have caught a cold.

After dinner, Qin Canglan practiced boxing in the courtyard for a while. When the sweat on his body dried, he took a cold shower.

Ever since the Imperial Physician instructed him to take care of his body, he had not taken a cold shower for months.

It was because he was inexplicably frustrated today. He did not know what he was frustrated about.

He was someone who took a cold shower in the middle of winter and did not feel cold. However, when he lay on the bed, the gout in his hand began to flare up.

This was the consequence of not following the doctor's orders.

Qin Canglan looked at his trembling hand in pain and cold sweat dripped down his forehead.

In the eyes of outsiders, his body was still very strong. He could fight for another seven to eight years. Only he knew that he could no longer hold a sword steadily.

If not for that, why would he have passed the position of Protector Duke to Qin Che so early?

Actually, which of these generals did not exert their bodies too much when they were young and ended up with injuries and illnesses in their twilight years?

The Imperial Physician prescribed him a bottle of painkillers. Because there were certain side effects and addiction, the Imperial Physician instructed him to take a packet only when the pain was unbearable.

He had never taken it.

He understood that medicine was 30% poisonous.

But tonight, he actually couldn't take it anymore. There seemed to be strange pain in his hands.

He took the medicine.

The drug took effect quickly. The pain was alleviated, followed by drowsiness.

He lay on the hard bed and quickly fell asleep.

He never used to dream.

But that night, he dreamed of his wife and the father and son in Pear Blossom Lane.

In the Wei family, Matriarch Wei locked Wei Ting in the ancestral hall and made him kneel and repent in front of the ancestral tablets.

Was Wei Ting such a well-behaved person?

He turned around and climbed over the wall.

Just as he climbed over the wall, she saw Madam Jiang and Madam Chen in sparring clothes. The former held a nine-section whip, while the latter held a red tassel spear and looked at her calmly.

Wei Ting lay on the wall and sighed helplessly. “There's no need…”

Madam Jiang patted her palm with the whip and chuckled. “Grandmother guessed that you wouldn't be honest! Do you want to run? Come on.”

Wei Ting sighed again. “Fifth Sister-in-law, you know that I won't fight with you and Third Sister-in-law.”

Madam Jiang snorted. “Cut the crap! Are you going to scram back obediently, or are the two of us going to beat you down!”

Wei Ting held his forehead. “Third Sister-in-law, Fifth Sister-in-law, are you serious…”

Madam Chen was strong but had a silly personality.

She looked at Madam Jiang. “Are we serious?”

Madam Jiang said seriously, “Of course I'm serious! Grandmother said that if we let him go today, she won't let you eat meat for three days!”

Madam Chen stabbed the red tassel spear into the ground!

Wei Ting was speechless.

“Grandmother!”

Wei Ting shouted behind the two of them.

The two of them subconsciously turned their heads. Wei Ting took the opportunity to support himself with one hand on the wall and jump up!

Madam Jiang's ears twitched as she looked at him coldly. “Rascal! You've learned to cheat! Where are you running?!”

She lashed out with her whip. Wei Ting kicked with the tip of his foot and met her whip.

At the same time, Wei Ting flipped back in the air and knelt on one knee, landing steadily on the lawn.

Madam Chen drew her spear and charged forward. The red tassel spear that weighed more than a hundred catties was as fast and agile as a flood dragon in her hand.

Chapter 239

In the blink of an eye, she exchanged more than ten moves with Wei Ting.

Wei Ting said, “Third Sister-in-law, let me go and I'll buy meat for you. Braised pork from River Gazing Restaurant!”

Madam Chen paused.

Madam Jiang whipped Wei Ting. “Third Sister-in-law, don't listen to him! He's fooling you again! The last time, he said he would buy you pancakes, did he buy them for you in the end?”

“No.” Madam Chen frowned.

“Why not?” Wei Ting gritted his teeth. He had bought it, but his grandmother's people intercepted him midway.

Madam Chen raised her red tassel spear again and called out to Wei Ting.

This time, for some reason, Wei Ting did not dodge and his back was hit firmly.

Madam Chen's goal was to stop Wei Ting from escaping, not to kill him. Therefore, she did not stab him with the spearhead. Instead, she tapped him.

Even so, Wei Ting still grunted and spat out a mouthful of blood.

Wei Ting fell to the ground.

Their expressions changed drastically.

Mdm Jiang threw away her whip and walked over. She squatted down and looked at Wei Ting in panic. “Little Seven, what's wrong?”

Wei Ting lay on the ground on his side, one hand covering his heart and the other reaching for his injured back. He said with a pained expression, “Fifth Sister-in-law, I think I'm injured…”

Mdm Jiang said in a daze, “You, aren't scamming us again, right?”

Wei Ting smiled weakly and was about to speak when he spat out another mouthful of blood.

Madam Jiang was frightened. She turned to look at Madam Chen and said, “Third Sister-in-law, how could you beat Little Seven up like this?”

“I-I didn't use much strength. I just… tapped him.”

“Don't you know how strong you are? You slapped a bear to death!”

These words were not nonsense. Back then, when the sons of the Wei family were still alive, they had once followed the emperor to hunt. Halfway through, the emperor encountered a bear. The inner court experts could not save him in time, so Madam Chen swung her rod and killed the bear on the spot.

Madam Chen also realized that she was indeed a little strong. She scratched her head. “What should we do?”

Madam Jiang knelt on the ground and looked at Wei Ting, who was vomiting blood. She cried. “Little Seven!”

“I, I, I'll get a physician!”

Madam Chen threw the red tassel spear away and turned to leave.

After taking two steps, she turned back and retrieved the red tassel spear.

Madam Jiang cried.

Suddenly, Wei Ting's slender finger moved and tapped her acupoints.

Mdm Jiang was stunned!

Wei Ting smiled. “Sorry, Fifth Sister-in-law.”

Madam Jiang was so angry that her eyes shot darts!

“Brat, how dare you tease me!”

It was windy outside. Madam Chen and Madam Jiang came out to catch him. In order to be agile, they did not wear much.

Wei Ting took off his cloak and covered Madam Jiang.

“Sorry, Fifth Sister-in-law. Third Sister-in-law will be here in 15 minutes at most. Please wait here for a moment.”

With that, he did not forget to arrange Madam Jiang into a more comfortable sitting position.

Madam Jiang's eyes chased after him fiercely.

“Brat, don't let me catch you, or I'll chop off your war flag!”

Night fell.

Su Mo sent Su Xiaoxiao back to the residence.

Physician Fu stayed in the estate, but he did not need to stay by the bed. Su Mo arranged for a few trusted physicians to take turns on night duty. If anything happened, they would wake Physician Fu up in time.

In the carriage, Su Xiaoxiao asked about the Protectorate.

Su Mo answered them one by one.

When they were about to reach Pear Blossom Lane, they met an acquaintance.

“Eh? Who's inside?”

The man asked.

Su Mo lifted the curtain. “Second Grandpa, it's me.”

He introduced him to Su Xiaoxiao. “He's my grandaunt's brother-in-law.”

The younger brother of the old Guardian Duke, Qin Canlan, Qin Hai.

Su Mo could not expose Su Xiaoxiao's identity to anyone related to the Protectorate for the time being. He got out of the carriage and bowed to the other party.

Qin Hai must have noticed that there was someone in the carriage, but he could not ask further. After greeting them, he rode away.

“The old Protector Duke has a younger brother?” Su Xiaoxiao asked.

Su Mo lowered the carriage curtain. “He's a concubine's son. Speaking of which, back then, when Uncle disappeared, we couldn't find him for many years. Everyone has almost concluded that Uncle has died. The Duke's Estate had to have a successor. Granduncle planned to pass the position of Duke to Qin Hai. Qin Hai was so frightened that he hurriedly split from the family.”

Not everyone was ambitious and greedy for power.

All these years, Qin Hai had been eating, drinking, and playing. He was much more carefree than Qin Canglan, who had his head tied to his belt at all times.

Su Mo left after sending Su Xiaoxiao back to Pear Blossom Lane.

Su Cheng was not around. He and the three little fellows had gone out to buy lamp oil.

Su Ergou was boxing in his courtyard.

It was a new set of fist techniques taught by the kind old man.

When he heard the commotion in the courtyard, he quickly retracted his fist and ran to the central room. “Sister, you're back?”

“Yes, have you eaten?” Su Xiaoxiao asked.

“I've eaten,” Su Ergou said. “Dad bought the buns.”

The three little ones who were poisoned by the roasted sweet potatoes were determined not to let Father Su enter the kitchen again. Father Su had no choice but to go to the market to buy a few big meat buns.

Su Ergou said, “I left two for you. They're in the hot pot.”

Su Xiaoxiao only took one and handed the other to Su Ergou.

“I'm not hungry,” Su Ergou refused.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “You'll be hungry later.”

This child was growing and had been especially hungry recently.

Su Ergou hesitated for a moment before taking the bun.

Su Xiaoxiao took a bite of the bun. “Did you buy what I asked you to buy?”

“I bought it!” Su Ergou said. “Don't worry, I bought it secretly and didn't let Dad see it. But Sister, why did you buy those clothes?”

Su Xiaoxiao sat on the stool and stretched her chubby legs. She said calmly, “It's nothing. It's to meet a person.”

After eating the buns, Su Xiaoxiao returned to the house and changed into the night clothes that Su Ergou had bought. “If Dad asks, say that I went to the Marquis Mansion.”

Su Ergou said, “Oh, Sister, be careful.”

Su Xiaoxiao nodded.

The moon was dark and windy.

Su Xiaoxiao looked at the map she had obtained from Su Mo and successfully found the location of the Protectorate.

In front of him was a high wall with sharp broken tiles. If she flipped over it with her bare hands, she would be cut into a bloody mess.

Su Xiaoxiao suddenly thought of the pair of insulation gloves rewarded by the pharmacy.

No way…

Su Xiaoxiao raised her eyebrows strangely and took out the gloves from the small first aid bag tied to her waist.

She first tried the dagger that Wei Ting had given her

It actually didn't cut.

At first, Su Xiaoxiao despised it too much and didn't study its texture carefully. Now that she touched it, she realized that its texture was very strange as if it was formed by countless thin and small cold steel wires.

Su Xiaoxiao suddenly smiled.

Who said it was useless?

Wasn't that useful?

Su Xiaoxiao put on her gloves and took more than ten steps back.

She ran, kicked the wall, and jumped up!

Supporting herself on the wall covered in sharp debris, she jumped and fell behind the wall!

Phew!

The little fatty could also be very agile!

Chapter 240

Su Xiaoxiao roughly understood the structure of the Protectoratefrom Su Mo. She roughly knew that her current location was not far from the main kitchen of the residence.

That was true. She could smell it too. It was the fragrance of roasted venison.

It seemed that the food in the Protectorate was not bad.

Thinking of Father Su, who had not eaten well in the countryside, Su Xiaoxiao's eyes flashed coldly.

A patrolling guard walked past the courtyard wall. Su Xiaoxiao didn't want her aura to be sensed and walked towards the noisy and busy kitchen.

She hid behind a nearby rockery.

At this time, ordinary families had long rested. Only the main kitchen of the Protectorate was still busy.

A nanny in charge led the two maidservants into the kitchen in a hurry. As she walked, she instructed, “Have you remembered what I instructed you to do? The Little High Duke doesn't eat anything fat. Remember to remove the oil on the ginseng soup.”

“Also, don't stew the bird's nest you bought last month for the young master anymore. Use the bird's nest you bought a few days ago.”

“Nanny, should we use blood swallows or…”

“Of course, it's blood swallow! What kind of noble status does the Little High Duke have? Who are you mocking by giving him ordinary bird's nest?”

“Got it, Nanny.” The little maidservant lowered her head and obediently followed the housekeeper into the kitchen.

Su Ergou had not eaten meat in the countryside for a long time. Being able to drink some soup made of lard and eat rice mixed with lard was a delicacy to Su Ergou.

What was bird's nest? Su Ergou had never seen it before.

Su Xiaoxiao stayed behind the rockery for a while. After confirming that the guards had gone far, she flashed out.

Coincidentally, the supper in the kitchen was ready.

One portion was for Qin Yun and the other was for Qin Che.

Su Xiaoxiao didn't hesitate and followed the maidservant who brought Qin Che supper.

The two maidservants did not know that they were being followed and whispered about the residence.

“Sigh, the Little High Duke is in trouble again. Fortunately, the High Duke suppressed it and didn't let it reach the Old Master's ears.”

“If the Old Master finds out, he will punish the Little High Duke. His body can't withstand the Old Master's whip.”

“The Old Master's whip couldn't hit the Little High Duke. Didn't the High Duke stop him every time? The High Duke would say that he didn't teach his son well. If he want to whip, he should whip the High Duke. The High Duke suffered among the commoners and his body was damaged. How could the Old Master bear to do it?”

“Fortunately, our Miss is sensible. With her help in the future, the Little High Duke won't suffer.”

Speak of the devil. Qin Yanran walked over with her maidservant.

The two maidservants were shocked and hurriedly bowed. “Miss!”

Qin Yanran glanced at the two of them and asked, “Is it for my father?”

“Yes,” one of the maids said.

Qin Yanran said, “Give it to me. I'll send it over.”

The two maidservants handed the food box in their hands to Qin Yanran's maidservant.

After Qin Yanran left, the two of them discussed softly.

“Did you see the pearl bracelet on Missy's head just now?”

“What pearl? That's called Shark Pearl. It's from the South Sea! I heard that it costs a hundred taels of silver each! Our Duke bought a whole string for Miss without a word!”

“The Duke really dotes on Miss. Our Miss is so lucky.”

“She was born into an aristocratic family. How can her fate be bad? Not all the daughters of aristocratic families have this fortune.”

“That's right. The Protector Duke is really rich.”

“You're new here, so there are many things you don't know. This isn't something that can be bought with money… The Protector Duke is powerful and influential. It's not something that any family can compare to. Of course, only our Eldest Miss is worthy of such expensive shark pearls. If it were any other young lady, she would just be a poor imitation!”

The two maidservants bragged that Qin Yanran was the only one in the world.

Su Xiaoxiao actually had no feelings for Qin Yanran, but she was impatient to listen to this. She wanted to investigate Qin Che.

However, there was only a small path here. The two maidservants blocked her way and did not leave, causing her to be unable to move.

When someone from the kitchen came to rush them, Qin Yanran had long left.

So which courtyard was Qin Che's?

She could only figure it out as she walked.

As she walked, she suddenly heard a few men talking ahead.

“The few of you, increase your guard tonight. Send more men to the side and back doors!”

“Brother Feng, why are we suddenly on high alert tonight? Is something big about to happen in the capital?”

“Is this something you can ask?”

“I know my mistake!”

“Hurry up!”

“Yes!”

Su Xiaoxiao frowned suspiciously.

Strengthen security and send more people?

What was the situation?

Could it be that she had been exposed?

No, if she was really exposed, they would be searching the residence carefully.

The four guards walked in this direction. Su Xiaoxiao had no suitable place to hide. She could only turn around and climb into a quiet courtyard beside her.

Just as she entered, Qin Yanran came over.

Su Xiaoxiao frowned and flashed into a room.

“Is my grandfather around?”

Qin Yanran's voice came from outside the door.

The servant replied, “Miss, Old Master has rested.”

“So early?” Qin Yanran asked. “Where does my grandfather feel unwell? He usually practices martial arts at this hour.”

The servant said, “I'm not sure either.”

Old Master would not explain anything to servants like them.

Qin Yanran was worried. “I'll go in and see Grandpa.”

The servant did not dare to stop her and moved aside.

“Grandpa, I'm Yanran. I'm coming in.” As soon as Qin Yanran finished speaking, she waited at the door for a moment and gently pushed it open.

Su Xiaoxiao's eyebrows twitched as she crawled under the bed.

Sob, she was stuck before she could move half her body in. Su Xiaoxiao crawled out again and hid in the closet.

The cabinet was also narrow… and the door almost could not be closed.

She would never admit that she was fat!

She pulled the cabinet door closed with both hands.

Qin Yanran walked around the screen and came to the bed.

Qin Canglan slept very soundly under the effect of the medicine.

Qin Yanran came to the bed.

“Grandpa, Grandpa.”

She called out softly twice. Seeing that Qin Canglan was probably only asleep, she was slightly relieved.

The back of her hand touched her grandfather's forehead. It wasn't hot.

“Phew.”

She heaved another sigh of relief.

In the closet, Su Xiaoxiao gritted her teeth. She muttered to herself,”It's time to leave, right? I can't hold the closet door closet anymore…”

Qin Yanran sat down on the stool beside the bed.

Su Xiaoxiao was speechless!

This position was strenuous, and the cabinet was stuffy. No one understood the little fatty's pain.

Qin Yanran finally left.

Su Xiaoxiao hurriedly left the cabinet and pulled off the cloth covering her face, panting heavily.

“I'm suffocating…”

Wait.

Qin Yanran was Qin Che's daughter. She called the man on the bed her grandfather.

Was this person the Old Protector Duke?

Interesting. She had accidentally entered the Old Protector Duke's room.

Was he involved in the accident back then?

It was rumored that the Old Protector Duke and his first wife were deeply in love, but the rumors were just rumors. Marriage was like drinking water, and the drinker would know if the water was cold or warm.

After the daughter of the Su family passed away, Qin Canglan's mother found another wife for him.

Qin Canglan had no children with his second wife and their relationship was cold.

Later on, Qin Canglan's mother and his second wife passed away one after another. Qin Canglan did not remarry.

Cold moonlight shone in.

Su Xiaoxiao lifted the veil and looked at the frowning man on the bed.

From his looks, he was very fierce.

She tilted her head.

Oh, did he take medicine?

This breathing was clearly wrong for a general.

Suddenly, Qin Canglan seemed to have sensed something and suddenly opened his eyes.

Su Xiaoxiao never expected him to wake up so suddenly.

A hundred ways to kill him flashed across Su Xiaoxiao's mind…

“Huayin…” Qin Canglan spoke in a daze.

Qin Canglan's consciousness was chaotic. The effects of the painkillers made him dizzy.

What was wrong with him tonight? Did he dream of Huayin time and time again?

Su Xiaoxiao blinked.

Qin Canglan raised his head with difficulty. “Huayin… is it really you?”

Su Huayin was the name of the daughter of the Su family.

Qin Canglan's old eyes flickered. “Huayin… are you here to pick me up?”

Pick him up? Why? So they could go to Pear Blossom Lane to play cards?

Su Xiaoxiao's eyes darted around and she decisively used Wei Ting's move. “You're dreaming.”

With that, she raised her small fist and punched down!

No!

Su Xiaoxiao's fist stopped half an inch away from his head.

Qin Canglan did not dodge at all.

Even in a half-asleep state, a general would not lose his survival instinct to protect himself.

Then there was only one explanation. If Su Huayin wanted to kill him, he would lie flat and let Su Huayin kill him.

“Don't sleep yet!”

Su Xiaoxiao held his hand and said extremely seriously, “I'm sending you a dream. Your son is fake!”

Chapter 241

After leaving Qin Canglan's courtyard, Su Xiaoxiao encountered some trouble. Since the Protector Duke's Estate strengthened its guard, she could not leave.

She still could not understand why the Protector Duke's Estate suddenly became more vigilant. Could it be that they had guessed that someone would come to spy on them tonight?

Or did something happen that she didn't know about? Was she unlucky to have bumped into it?

She remembered that the vendor who had poisoned the Old Marquis was dead.

The peddler's lover was from the Protector Duke's Estate. In that case, the other party might have guessed that something had happened to Xiangzi and that they had probably been exposed. They would have expected people from the Marquis of Zhenbei to come to investigate secretly tonight…

“In that case, it's not strange for them to strengthen their defenses.”

Su Xiaoxiao found a relatively quiet corner, tugged at her gloves, and easily crossed the wall.

As soon as she landed, a swift arrow flew over.

She caught it with her bare hands and handsomely held the cold arrowhead.

The guard who shot at her was stunned.

Did this… fat assassin actually grab the arrowhead with her bare hands?

One had to know that the arrowhead was very sharp.

Su Xiaoxiao turned around and threw the arrow at the guard.

The guard was shocked and hurriedly used his bow to block.

He was forced to take a few steps back!

What terrifying strength!

He shouted with a solemn expression, “Guards! There's an assassin!”

The guards of the Protector Duke's Estate rushed over and surrounded Su Xiaoxiao.

Su Xiaoxiao didn't waste her breath on anyone. She rolled up her sleeves and started working.

Her body was much more agile than before. Every time the guard seemed to want to grab her, she would slip away from his palm like a loach.

However, it was difficult for two fists to fight four hands. The disadvantage in numbers exhausted Su Xiaoxiao's stamina.

Three guards sealed her front, left, and right. Another guard ambushed her from behind.

In the blink of an eye, a hidden weapon shot over and hit the guard's wrist. The guard screamed and the sword in his hand fell to the ground. Su Xiaoxiao backhanded him and sent him flying like a sandbag.

The person who helped Su Xiaoxiao out was another man in black. He didn't fight with the other party for long. He brought Su Xiaoxiao into the air and disappeared into the endless night.

“Chase!”

There were cavalry guards in the Protector Duke's Estate. They spurred their horses and chased after the two of them.

“Su Mo?” Su Xiaoxiao asked.

The man in black paused in surprise and nodded. “Yes.”

“Why are you here?” Su Xiaoxiao was puzzled.

Su Mo said coldly, “I should be the one asking you that.”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Just talk. Don't slow down. Continue.”

Su Mo hesitated. He wanted to ask the other party, “Why do you think I slowed down?”

The Protector Duke's Estate had the most elite cavalry of the Great Zhou. They were divided into three groups. One group of cavalry chased after Su Mo and Su Xiaoxiao, and the other two groups took a detour to outflank them.

Su Xiaoxiao looked back from the eaves. “Oh, there's still a strategy.”

Su Mo said calmly, “Do you think Qin Canglan brought out the cavalry?”

Su Xiaoxiao said calmly, “Oh, is Qin Canglan very powerful?”

Su Mo asked curiously, “Shouldn't you call him grandfather?”

Su Xiaoxiao spread her hands. “I didn't acknowledge him.”

Su Mo trembled and almost fell from midair. “Don't move!”

Su Xiaoxiao retracted her hand obediently. “Okay.”

She moved again!

Su Mo was speechless.

The advantage of cavalry was that they were fast, but their disadvantage was also quite obvious. For example, they could not enter narrow places.

Su Mo abandoned the street and flew over the roofs of the rows of houses.

“They shouldn't have chased after us.”

With that, Su Mo brought Su Xiaoxiao to a house with closed doors and windows.

He glanced at Su Xiaoxiao. “Are you alright?”

“I'm alright.” Su Xiaoxiao shook her head.

This girl's physique was really good. If it were anyone else, they would have vomited.

Su Mo looked around and narrowed his eyes. “They should be guarding the nearby exit. I'll lure them away later. Walk forward from the east. Someone will receive you there.”

“Okay,” Su Xiaoxiao agreed.

Su Mo was stunned again.

Shouldn't she be polite and ask, “What will you do if I leave?”

Despite his surprise, he did not need this girl to be polite; he really wanted her to escape.

However, this girl's reaction… was really too different.

This was the first time he had met someone so straightforward. He was not used to it.

Su Mo coughed lightly. “Alright, be careful. If you're caught, just push it on me.”

Su Xiaoxiao nodded in a second. “Okay!”

Su Mo was speechless.

Forget it. This was good too. It would be easier.

Chapter 242

If he really encountered those crying and indecisive people, it would easily ruin things.

He turned to leave, but he was too late.

The cavalry of the Protector Duke's Estate had actually taken a small path and entered!

People came from both sides and it was impossible to lure them away.

Seeing that a fierce battle was inevitable, the courtyard door behind the two of them suddenly opened. A slender jade-like hand grabbed Su Xiaoxiao's wrist and pulled her in!

Su Mo's expression changed. He drew his sword and rushed into the courtyard…

Clang!

The courtyard door was closed.

In the night, a handsome figure stood beside Su Xiaoxiao and held her wrist openly.

Su Mo's gaze turned cold. He looked up and his gaze landed on that familiar handsome face.

“Wei Ting?”

Su Mo was shocked.

“Let go of …”

Before he could say the word ‘cousin', there was the sound of hurried hooves outside the door.

The cavalry of the Protector Duke's Estate stopped at the door.

Wei Ting looked at the closed courtyard door indifferently and gently rubbed the back of Su Xiaoxiao's hand with his fingertips, as if he was silently comforting her.

Su Xiaoxiao blinked.

Wei Ting let go of her hand and gave Su Mo a look.

Su Mo frowned and moved aside, blocking Su Xiaoxiao behind him.

Wei Ting swaggered out. The courtyard door was open, perfectly covering the two of them.

The cavalry was already prepared to get off the horse and charge in. When they saw Wei Ting, they paused again.

Wei Ting was the youngest son of the Wei family and had a noble status. Not everyone had the chance to see his true appearance.

But coincidentally, these cavalrymen were all lucky to have seen him during the royal hunt.

The leader's surname was Feng.

Guard Feng did not dismount or get on the horse. He maintained a neither up nor down posture.

After a long time, he still came down.

Because if he didn't come down himself, this master would definitely beat him down.

Wait, didn't this master go to the temple to be a monk?

Guard Feng cupped his hands as usual. “I didn't know that Lord Wei had returned to the capital. Sorry for not welcoming you.”

Wei Ting sneered. “Do you think you're qualified to welcome me?”

Guard Feng was speechless.

Wei Ting said sarcastically, “In the middle of the night, instead of sleeping, you came to block my courtyard. Why? The Duke Protector's Estate can't sit still anymore. Are you going to assassinate me in the middle of the night?”

Look at this hat!

Guard Feng did not dare to cause trouble for his master and hurriedly cupped his hands. “I don't dare. It's just a misunderstanding.”

Wei Ting pointed at the cavalry behind him. “Then tell me, what's going on?”

Guard Feng said, “I'm… chasing two assassins.”

Wei Ting looked shocked. “So you suspect that I'm an assassin?”

Guard Feng replied tentatively, “No…”

Guard Feng wanted to say, “I doubt it, but can you not say that?”

Wei Ting chuckled. “Then you suspect that I'm hiding assassins? Sure, just come in and search!”

As he spoke, Wei Ting turned around and said mockingly to the courtyard.

“Lai Fu, go to the palace and tell His Majesty that I'm back, but someone is unhappy that I returned to the capital. They came to my private residence in the middle of the night in the name of capturing the assassin and gave me a big show of strength!”

Su Mo looked around. Where was Lai fu?

Su Xiaoxiao pinched Su Mo.

Su Mo pulled his throat unwillingly. “Yes… I'll go now…”

“There's no need!” Guard Feng hurriedly said, “We made a mistake!”

Guard Feng left with his subordinates.

A cavalryman asked in confusion, “Brother Feng, are we leaving just like that? Aren't we going in to search? What if the assassin is really hiding inside?”

His words were not baseless.

The Wei family and the Qin and Su families were enemies, to begin with. Perhaps the assassin tonight was sent by Wei Ting!

“No,” Guard Feng said thoughtfully. “Anyone would cover up for the assassin tonight. The Wei family won't.”

The cavalry of the Protector Duke's Estate left.

Wei Ting returned to the courtyard.

Su Mo took out his sword and swung it at Wei Ting's neck.

Su Xiaoxiao took a step forward, pulled out the dagger at her waist, and broke Su Mo's sword!

In order not to expose his identity, Su Mo naturally wouldn't carry his exclusive sword. He used an ordinary sword bought from the market.

However, it was still very hard. Yet, it was actually cut off by this little girl?

What was even more surprising was how protective the little girl was of Wei Ting.

That dagger that could cut iron like mud…

Su Mo's pupils dilated.

Wasn't this Old General Wei's weapon?

Wei Ting actually gave it to this girl?

“You…” Su Mo composed himself. “What's your relationship?”

Wei Ting said with a faint smile, “We're husband and wife. If you don't believe me, ask her.”

Chapter 243

Su Mo looked at Su Xiaoxiao.

Su Xiaoxiao muttered, “Does being husband and wife in name count?”

Su Mo thought of the information his subordinate, who was disguised as a peddler, had found in the village. “Are you that Mr. Wei?”

When the peddler said that the Su family's girl had recruited a live-in son-in-law with the surname Wei, he did not guess it was the Wei family's youngest son.

After all… the youngest son of the Wei family was cultivating as a monk in the capital. It was impossible for him to appear in Qingzhou…

Su Mo looked at Wei Ting in shock. “You've never been in the capital… How did you…”

He looked at Su Xiaoxiao. “What exactly happened?”

Su Xiaoxiao tapped her fingers together. “Well, he was injured. My father… tied him up and made him my live-in son-in-law!”

Su Mo was speechless.

At that time, the Su family did not know their background, so everything was a coincidence. However, this coincidence was too much. Of all people, Su Cheng caught the youngest son of the Wei family.

Do they know what relationship the Su and Qin families have with the Wei family?

It was not an exaggeration to say that the possibility of the Wei family marrying these two families was lower than Wei Ting over his military power.

Su Mo asked Su Xiaoxiao, “Do you not know his identity?”

“Yes… yes!” Su Xiaoxiao nodded.

Su Mo glanced at Wei Ting coldly and said solemnly to Su Xiaoxiao, “Alright, I'll tell you clearly today. His name is Wei Ting, also known as Wei Xichao, and he's the youngest grandson of the Wu An General Wei Wei. The Wei family is enemies with our Su family and the Qin family, so it's best if you don't have anything to do with him!”

Su Xiaoxiao was silent.

Su Mo had not interacted much with Su Xiaoxiao, but he could tell that this girl was not an ordinary person.

He wasn't sure his words could sway her.

Or if the Qin and Su families were qualified to shake her.

Just as he thought that this girl would ignore the grudges of the previous generation, Su Xiaoxiao raised her head bit by bit, her eyes condensing with a huge sadness.

Her chubby hand hesitantly took out the handkerchief and flicked it in the air.

In an instant, she seemed to have become someone else. Her hand that was holding the handkerchief covered her heart, and her expression became extremely sorrowful.

She stared deeply at Wei Ting and was about to cry.

“The mountain has no ridges, and the world is united. I dare to fight you.”

“You're like a rock, and I'm like a reed. The rock can't be moved, and the reed is as tough as silk!”

Wei Ting said, “Speak human language.”

Su Xiaoxiao turned her face away and cried. “We're not suitable. Let's not meet in the future!”

Wei Ting said, “Return my sons to me.”

Su Xiaoxiao turned around in a second and smiled. “Hubby, let's go home!”

Su Mo was speechless.

It was late at night.

In the carriage back, Su Xiaoxiao couldn't help but feel sleepy.

Wei Ting sat beside her and raised his head. He gently held her small head and let her lean on his shoulder.

His gaze was as cold as ever.

He held her hand and placed it on his lap. His fingertips caressed the back of her hand, and there was gentleness between his eyebrows.

Su Mo looked away.

The carriage arrived at Pear Blossom Lane.

Su Ergou was dozing off in the central room, waiting for his sister. When he heard the commotion in the carriage, he instantly woke up.

“Sister!”

He ran out and pulled open the courtyard door.

Su Xiaoxiao opened her eyes slightly and got out of the carriage in a daze.

Su Ergou looked at Wei Ting, who got out of the car with Su Xiaoxiao, and his eyes lit up. “Brother-in-law?”

“Yes, why aren't you asleep?” Wei Ting reached out and looked at Su Ergou, but his hand gently blocked the door frame.

Su Xiaoxiao's forehead brushed the back of his hand.

Su Xiaoxiao entered the house.

Father Su was not asleep either. He was waiting for his daughter at home.

“Daughter, you're back?”

“Yes, sleepy.”

Su Xiaoxiao opened the door and threw herself facedown on the bed.

Father Su went to the door.

“Eh? My son-in-law is back too. Why are you standing at the door? Aren't you coming in?”

He looked at Su Mo, who had also gotten out of the carriage. “Ah, you… you're that… Old Master Su's son, right?”

“Uncle…” Su Mo opened his mouth and said warmly, “Uncle Su.”

Su Cheng looked at him and then at Wei Ting. “You know each other? Did you come together?”

The two of them did not answer for a moment.

This was not easy to answer.

It would be a lie to say that they didn't know each other, but if they did, what if Su Cheng asked about their relationship, forcing them to divulge their age-old grudge?

Fortunately, Su Cheng was not really interested.

“Well, it's getting late. I won't make you stay. Hurry up and go back. Don't let your family worry.”

Su Cheng said to Su Mo and pulled Wei Ting in.

“The steamed buns are hot in the pot…”

“Go and see Erhu later. He shouted until his teeth hurt this afternoon…”

“Ergou's thing is broken again. It took me the entire night to repair…”

“Dad, go to sleep. I'll do it.”

“Alright, I'll go to sleep… I'm so sleepy… Remember to put out the fire on the stove. Otherwise, it'll burn through the bottom of the pot…”

“Got it, Dad.”

“Ergou, why are you dawdling? Hurry up and go back to your room to sleep!” Su Cheng shouted.

“Oh,” Su Ergou replied to his father and said to the stunned Su Mo, “Young Master Su, I… will close the door first.”

Su Mo nodded.

Seeing the door close in front of him, the conversation with Wei Ting in the carriage flashed across his mind.

“Do you know who she is?”

“I do.”

“Then why did you…”

“I'm happy to.”

He had long known that the youngest son of the Wei family was unruly. All the etiquette rules were nonsense in his eyes.

He just did not expect him to have the same attitude toward even the hatred of the family…

“Wei Xichao, I hope you can really protect her well.”

Chapter 244

Qin Canglan took the medicine and slept until dawn.

When he woke up, he sat in front of the bed in a daze.

The servant called out twice outside the door, but there was no response.

In the past, at this time, Qin Canglan would have already practiced swordsmanship in the courtyard for a while. The servant was worried. Thinking about how he had slept early last night and how strange it was, one could not help but worry that something had happened to him.

The servant boldly pushed the door open and entered.

“Old Master!”

Qin Canglan came back to his senses. “What is it?”

“Ah, you… you're fine.” The servant scratched his head in a daze. “You woke up late. I was worried that you… that… pfft, my jinxed mouth!”

The servant smiled awkwardly. “I'll get the kitchen to prepare breakfast. Are we eating braised noodles or buns this morning?”

Qin Canglan was uninterested. “Anything is fine.”

“Aye, I understand.”

The servant retreated.

“Wait.” Qin Canglan stopped him again.

The servant bowed and said, “Old Master, what can I do for you?”

Qin Canglan said, “Call the Imperial Physician Cen over.”

The servant hurriedly said, “Are you not feeling well?”

Qin Canglan waved his hand. “No, don't make it public.”

If the children found out, there would be a lot of trouble.

“Yes.”

The servant first went to the kitchen, before personally going to Imperial Physician Cen's house. His luck was good today. Imperial Physician Cen was not on duty in the palace, so he followed the servant to the residence.

Qin Che went to court.

Qin Yanran went to learn the zither while Qin Yun recuperated in the courtyard.

The residence was quite quiet.

When Imperial Physician Cen entered the room, Qin Canglan had already washed up. He had no appetite, so breakfast was still on the table.

Imperial Physician Cen carried the medicine box in.

Seeing that Qin Canlan's expression was not right, Imperial Physician Cen asked, “Does your hand hurt again?”

“It's not my hand.” Qin Canglan frowned, not knowing how to explain.

According to his personality, he would not believe such a strange thing.

But that was Su Huayin…

His fat wife.

Imperial Physician Cen asked in confusion, “Then why did you suddenly ask me to come over…”

“Ahem.” Qin Canglan coughed awkwardly. “I took the painkillers you gave me last night.”

Imperial Physician Cen was very surprised. “You… just took it?”

He had always treated the Old Protector Duke for gout, so he naturally understood how serious the other party's condition was.

The Old Duke's hand was not only due to gout, but it was also an accumulated condition. Therefore, ordinary people could not tolerate the pain.

When the Old Duke said that it hurt a little, it was already bone-piercing.

He thought that in ten days at most, the Old Duke would have to take painkillers.

It had been three months…

“Uh… it hasn't expired, right…” Imperial Physician Cen muttered to himself.

“Does it work?” he asked.

“If you mean pain relief, yes,” Qin Canglan said fairly.

Imperial Physician Cen heaved a sigh of relief.

It had been three months but it had not expired. It seemed that there was no need to throw away the impending painkillers at home…

Qin Canglan asked, “You said last time that there would be side effects if I took those painkillers. You told me to try not to consume it if I could.”

“That's right,” Imperial Physician Cen said. “Datura was added to the painkillers. The roots of this medicinal herb are poisonous. I didn't add a high dose, so it won't cause poisoning, but if it's taken for a long time, it will cause a certain level of addiction. It's not a big problem to take a small amount, but it might result in sleepiness. You'll feel weak and nauseous and lose your appetite.”

Qin Canglan continued, “Other than that, what else?”

“Huh?” Imperial Physician Cen looked at Qin Canglan in confusion.

Qin Canglan cleared his throat. “For example… will you see anything…”

Imperial Physician Cen understood. “Are you referring to an illusion?”

“Ah, I just… had a dream!” Qin Canglan was also in a mess. “I took your painkillers and dreamed at night! I used to… not dream!”

Imperial Physician Cen thought for a moment. “I can't rule out this possibility. However, what did you dream of?”

“I dreamed of Hua Yin,” Qin Canglan said.

Imperial Physician Cen was stunned.

Imperial Physician Cen had known Qin Canglan for decades and was considered his friend. He knew this name too well.

Qin Canglan sighed. “I dreamed that Hua Yin wanted to kill me.”

Imperial Physician Cen did not understand this direction.

Qin Canglan continued, “She even sent me a dream.”

–

After Imperial Physician Cen left, Qin Canglan went to the horse farm.

He got someone to prepare some foal feed.

The servant who raised the horses said, “I'll send it to your residence later.”

“No need.”

Qin Canglan carried the feed into the carriage and personally went to Pear Blossom Lane.

He came to the door and saw a small child standing behind the threshold, looking out.

Perhaps it was because the child was too cute, but his mood suddenly became very good.

“Dahu!”

He remembered that this was the little guy from yesterday.

The child looked up at him adorably. “I'm Erhu.”

Qin Canglan was stunned.

Erhu turned around and ran to the backyard.

Qin Canglan moved the feed into the front yard.

A small child was squatting in the front yard and digging with a shovel.

Qin Canglan smiled. “So you're here, Dahu!”

The child turned his head and said with a serious expression, “I'm Xiaohu!”

Qin Canglan was speechless again.

Qin Canglan did not find Dahu in the courtyard.

That child… could it be that he went there to climb trees again?

It was very dangerous!

He put down the feed and walked out.

Qin Canglan was half right. Dahu had indeed gone there again, but he did not climb a tree today.

The door was open, and the sound of a zither came from inside. He hesitated for a moment before entering.

He followed the sound of the zither to the door of a room.

The man sat on the spotless wooden floor and elegantly stroked a zither.

Eh, it was the handsome uncle from yesterday.

After the man finished playing, he looked up indifferently.

Dahu said, “You play so well.”

The man did not say anything. He lowered his eyes and touched the strings.

Dahu said again, “Are you better?”

The man still said nothing.

“Can I come in?” Dahu asked again.

The man said, “Whatever.”

Dahu first observed the shoes at the door. After thinking for a moment, he took off his small shoes.

He arranged his small shoes and clattered into the house in his clean footwear.

He was very curious about that long, wonderful thing.

However, he was in no hurry to look at the zither. Instead, he first took out a snack wrapped in brown paper from his small pouch and handed it to the man.

“My mother made it. It's delicious. You can eat it if you're sick.”

It was a pastry made of loquat and honey. It moistened the throat and reduced heatiness.

The man was so thin that his bones could be seen because he found it difficult to swallow all the food in the world.

Seeing that he did not take it, Dahu was not discouraged. Instead, he placed it on the zither table at the side. “I'll leave it here. You can eat when you're hungry. Then, I'll leave first!”

The man looked at the child in confusion.

It was as if he was surprised that he wasn't here for the zither. Why did he leave after giving him the snacks?

Could it be that there was someone in this world who purely cared about him?

The man said, “You like to listen to the zither?”

Dahu was stunned. This was the first time he knew that this thing was called a zither.

“I like it,” Dahu said in a childish voice.

“Sit down,” the man said.

“Oh.” Dahu obediently sat down opposite him.

The man raised his hand and played the zither again.

In another room, Master Zhang, who was teaching Qin Yanran, suddenly stopped and listened attentively.

“Teacher…” Qin Yanran was about to ask him what was wrong when she heard the sound of the zither coming from the room in the backyard.

Extreme shock flashed across Master Zhang's eyes. “He actually… he actually…”

Unlike the intermittent syllables that he had casually tuned previously, this time, it was a coherent tune.

It was like heavenly music.

Qin Yanran had always thought that she was extremely talented and played extremely well, but compared to the other party's zither music, she realized what true heavenly music was.

The person playing the zither must be Master Zhang's eldest disciple.

It was said that he had been under Zhang Qin's tutelage for ten years.

It had only been less than half a year since she started learning.

Thinking of this, Qin Yanran was no longer anxious.

Nurturing such an outstanding disciple was a testament to Master Zhang's standards.

She had made the right choice to acknowledge him as her master. She believed that in time, she would definitely become an outstanding talent in the zither.

Su Xiaoxiao didn't know that Dahu had gone to listen to someone play the zither again.

When she returned home, she saw the two children, so she asked, “Where are Uncle and Dahu?”

Xiaohu immediately betrayed his brother. “Uncle, pull qiu qiu! Dahu snuck out again to listen to that!”

Listen to that?

Were they referring to the zither?

There was only one family playing the zither in the alley.

Su Xiaoxiao went to the house in the east.

Qin Canglan looked around the tree but could not find Dahu.

He was worried that Dahu had fallen into someone's courtyard.

He turned around and came to the door of the house. He bumped into Su Xiaoxiao, who was also looking for Dahu.

Chapter 245

Qin Canglan was not someone who would stare at a girl on the streets. However, Su Xiaoxiao's figure was really eye-catching. He glanced at her from the corner of his eye.

Huh.

The little fatty.

He subconsciously took a second look.

Then he was stunned.

This little fat girl's eyebrows… were actually very similar to those of his deceased wife.

To be honest, if they only looked a little similar, it would not be too unimaginable. However, Su Huayin was once a little fat girl.

Su Xiaoxiao raised her eyebrows. “Why are you looking at me like that?”

And this arrogant and world-weary tone…

Qin Canglan raised his head. Could he be dreaming again in broad daylight…

No, it was still different.

As he sized Su Xiaoxiao up, Su Xiaoxiao also observed him seriously.

Last night, Su Xiaoxiao barged into the Protector Duke's Estate at night. The house was dark, and Qin Canglan was lying in the tent without a trace of light.

In addition, his aura when he was sleeping and when he was awake was completely different, so she did not immediately recognize Qin Canglan.

Qin Canglan didn't recognize Su Xiaoxiao.

Su Xiaoxiao was dressed like a Ninja Turtle last night. Her forehead was covered, and only her face was revealed.

More importantly, Qin Canglan had taken the medicine last night and had always thought that he was dreaming.

In Qin Canglan's opinion, he missed Su Huayin too much, so he dreamed of her. When he saw a fat girl, he felt that she looked like her.

“Ahem, I'm looking for a child.”

Qin Canglan took the initiative to speak.

After saying that, he was quite puzzled. Why did he tell a little girl his whereabouts?

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Oh, me too.”

Wait.

Something was wrong.

As he was thinking, the sound of the zither in the backyard stopped.

Although Qin Canglan did not know how to play the zither, he felt that the sound of the zither today was a little different from playing cotton.

Soon, Dahu came out.

It was the servant in the courtyard who saw Qin Canglan and Su Xiaoxiao at the door and went in to report to the man. Dahu guessed that his mother was coming.

“Mother.”

He called out obediently.

Qin Canglan glared.

No kidding?

This little girl… was Dahu's mother?

Had she reached the age of 15?

Su Xiaoxiao looked young, but she was already 16 years old.

“Big great-grandpa.”

Dahu turned around and called Qin Canglan again.

It was Su Xiaoxiao's turn to be surprised.

Did Dahu know this person too?

Su Xiaoxiao had left early and returned late yesterday and had yet to exchange information with her family, so she did not know that Qin Canglan had sent Dahu home.

Dahu looked up and asked, “Mother, can I continue to play?”

Su Xiaoxiao asked, “Did you get the owner's permission?”

“Yes!” Dahu nodded.

Su Xiaoxiao could tell that Dahu was very curious about the music in the courtyard. Instead of letting the little fellow come secretly, it was better to let him do it openly.

“Okay, Mom will pick you up later.”

Dahu bade the two of them farewell and entered happily.

The three little ones were children who were abnormally sensitive to danger. The fact that Dahu liked to come here meant that the master inside was not a bad person.

“Do you want to come home with me?” Su Xiaoxiao turned around and politely invited Qin Canglan.

She mainly wanted to know what had happened yesterday.

Qin Canglan was stunned. “Can, can I?”

Before Su Xiaoxiao could answer, he said, “Then I'll accept it!”

It was so fast as if he was afraid that Su Xiaoxiao would go back on her word.

Su Xiaoxiao looked at the additional feed in the courtyard and said, “Ergou, did you buy new feed?”

Su Ergou had just finished repairing Erhu and Xiaohu's slingshots when he replied, “I didn't buy it.”

“Ahem, I brought it,” Qin Canglan said.

Su Ergou told her what happened yesterday.

Su Xiaoxiao nodded. “I see.”

Qin Canglan sat on a small stool that was incompatible with his size. He looked around like a big and clumsy bear.

Strangely, he missed the young man from yesterday.

Father Su was not around, nor was Wei Ting. Wei Ting entered the palace, and Father Su was at the market.

Father Su discovered a market five miles away. The goods in that market were much cheaper than the things in the nearby market, but it closed quickly. The market was empty before noon.

Therefore, he, who had been used to lying in bed for ten thousand years, forced himself to wake up early. Before dawn, he carried his burden to shop for things.

In the countryside, if they wanted to eat vegetables, they could pick them from the fields. Although they did not farm, and only extorted… ahem, it would not cost much.

How was it like the capital? Three copper coins for a cabbage, two copper coins for a catty of radishes. The sweet potato leaves used to feed pigs in the countryside were even more expensive. They were actually five copper coins a catty.

Chapter 246

Father Su smacked his lips in pain. After buying the vegetables, he bought meat.

Thinking of the three little fellows at home, he gritted his teeth and bought a stick of candied hawthorn.

Originally, it took less than an hour to buy. The reason why he did not return was that he was blocked.

The person blocking him was none other than the young servant who had kicked Xiao Hu on the street last time. His name was Wang Fugui.

Wang Fugui's aunt was an old woman in the Protectorate. She had worked for 20 years and was now a nanny in the kitchen. She had some influence in the estate. Even Steward Zhang had to give her some face.

Otherwise, Steward Zhang would not have given Wang Fugui a job.

Of course, Wang Fugui was not here to stop Su Cheng. He was also here to buy. The Protectorate had a special supply channel, but those shops were expensive.

In order to earn some money, he came here to buy cheap goods.

He was not as picky as Su Cheng. After all, Su Cheng had learned farming from Madam Qian.

He only wanted it to be cheap and did not know the quality. What he bought back were all rotten vegetables. He ended up being scolded by his aunt who asked him to return the money.

He was holding back his anger when he happened to meet Su Cheng again.

Then the two of them started fighting.

Relying on the fact that there were many people, he blocked Su Cheng in the alley.

Su Ergou brought the foal to the front yard and Qin Canglan taught him how to feed it with new feed.

After feeding him, Su Cheng still did not return.

Qin Canglan looked around.

Erhu walked over and tilted his head to look at him. “You don't look happy.”

“No.” Qin Canglan smiled and said, “Are you… Erhu or Xiaohu?”

Dahu was not at home.

Erhu said, “I'm Erhu.”

“It's fine if you're unhappy.” Erhu changed the topic in time. “I have an ancestral stone. Do you want to touch it? You'll be happy if you touch it.”

Last time, he said that bad luck was shrouding his listener and did not sell it. This time, Erhu changed his marketing strategy.

“Sure,” Qin Canglan said.

How decisive. Erhu liked it.

Erhu took out his small stone. “I'll let you touch it. I won't give it to ordinary people.”

Qin Canglan touched it seriously.

Erhu nodded in satisfaction.

After testing it, it was time to…

Unexpectedly, before Erhu could speak, Qin Canglan said, “I can't touch your stone for nothing. This is for you.”

With that, he plucked a golden bean from the ear of his jade pendant and placed it in Erhu's palm.

Erhu, who had thought of a hundred ways to name his price was speechless.

–

When it was almost noon, Father Su still did not return.

Su Xiaoxiao knew that he had gone to the market in the east, so she decided to look for him.

As she passed by a small alley, she heard an intense beating and the sound of fists hitting flesh.

She frowned and walked over.

Father Su was covered in blood.

He sat on a man and threw hooks to his left and right, hitting the man until he was looking for his teeth on the ground.

On the ground beside the two of them were a few bruised and swollen servants. They could not even get up.

“Dad?” Su Xiaoxiao called out.

Seeing his daughter arrive, Su Cheng finally stopped. After getting up, he kicked Wang Fugui again. “I'll let you off today! If you dare to court death again, I'll send you to see the King of Hell!”

“Dad, are you alright?” Su Xiaoxiao asked.

“I'm fine!” Su Cheng looked down at the blood on his body and said, “It's not my blood. Sigh, look at these dirty clothes! They really can't take a beating!”

Thinking of this, he turned back and kicked each of them!

Seeing that Su Cheng was really fine, Su Xiaoxiao was relieved.

“Dad, let's go back.”

“Aye!”

Su Cheng picked up the burden at the side.

Fortunately, the vegetables were not spoiled. Otherwise, he would definitely take their lives!

“Dad, wait.”

Su Xiaoxiao walked over.

When Wang Fugui heard footsteps, he hugged his head and trembled.

Su Xiaoxiao squatted down expressionlessly and plundered their money bags!

The father and daughter walked back.

This scene fell into a carriage across the street.

Qin Che lifted the curtain and stared fixedly at the father and daughter who came out of the alley.

For a moment, he suspected that he had seen wrongly.

“Father, what are you looking at?”

Qin Yanran asked.

Qin Che's mind was buzzing, so he didn't hear what Qin Yanran said.

Qin Yanran followed her father's gaze and exclaimed, “It's her?”

This time, Qin Che reacted.

He turned to his daughter beside him. “Do you know those two?”

Qin Yanran recalled, “That girl is the physician from Qingzhou that I mentioned to Dad.”

Chapter 247

Qin Che's fingers tightened. “The doctor from Qingzhou who treated your uncle?”

Qin Yanran said, “She's just a disciple. The person who really treated Granduncle is her master.”

Qin Che's gaze landed on Su Cheng again. “That man is…”

“It's her father, right? He looks a little like you.” Speaking of similarities, Qin Yanran looked at Su Cheng and then at Qin Che. She said in amusement, “Dad, why do I feel that he looks a little like you?”

The was no greater meaning for the speaker who had no intention; however, the listener read something into what was said.

Qin Che clenched his fists.

“Did the Su family really bring them back from Qingzhou?”

“That's right.”

Qin Che took a deep breath. “Why did they hire a physician from Qingzhou to treat your uncle and grandfather? There are so many imperial physicians in the capital…”

Qin Yanran was deep in thought. “I'm curious too. Cousin said that their medical skills are brilliant. I think they might be famous local physicians. Granduncle has been receiving treatment for a long time, but they haven't improved. Cousin and the others might have been desperate.”

Qin Che continued, “Is that girl a disciple?”

Qin Yanran said, “That's what Cousin said.”

Qin Che pondered and said, “I've only seen physicians bringing their families out for consultations, but I've never seen any disciple so ostentatious.”

“This… I'm not sure.” Qin Yanran's knowledge was limited. If she asked carefully, she could understand more, but why would she ask about a countryside girl?

In Qin Yanran's opinion, she was not worth wasting this time.

As for the grudge between Qin Yun and Su Ergou, she knew her brother. She would not stand up for him if he caused trouble himself.

Qin Che said, “Say it again… What are their names?”

Qin Yanran thought for a moment and said, “Sister's name is Su Daya, and Brother's name is Su Ergou.”

“Su…” Qin Che closed his eyes coldly.

Qin Yanran sensed Qin Che's abnormality and asked with concern, “Father, what's wrong? Are you feeling unwell?”

“No, I'm fine…” Qin Che said. “Back to the residence.”

On the way back to the residence, Qin Che saw the father and daughter enter Pear Blossom Lane with his own eyes. From the angle, he did not see which courtyard they entered.

Thinking of something, Qin Che suddenly asked, “Did your grandfather pick you up at Pear Blossom Lane yesterday?”

Qin Yanran said aggrievedly, “Yes, but I don't know where Grandpa went. I waited for a long time.”

Qin Che's eyebrows twitched. “Did your grandfather pick you up today?”

Qin Yanran thought for a moment and said, “I don't think so… Grandpa was just passing by yesterday…”

How could her grandfather pick her up every day?

Qin Che hurriedly instructed the guard to enter Pear Blossom Lane from the east.

Qin Canglan was playing with the three little ones in the alley.

The guard said that there was an urgent matter in the residence. Qin Canglan handed the child to Su Ergou and returned to the residence with the guard.

Qin Che had been waiting in his courtyard for a long time.

“What's the urgent matter?” Qin Canglan asked.

Qin Che said, “Father didn't see any strange people today, right?”

“What strange person?”

“Ah, no.” Qin Che smiled. “Recently, there have been a few thieves in the capital who have given the officials a headache.”

Qin Canglan said, “Hmph, do you think I'm useless in my old age and can't even deal with a few thieves?”

“That's not what I meant.” Qin Che personally brought tea to Qin Canglan.

Qin Canglan frowned. “Is this the urgent matter you mentioned?”

“No.” Qin Che smiled and said, “Our residence hasn't been renovated for many years. A few days ago, it was raining heavily, and Yanran's room was leaking. Coincidentally, a desert horse came to the village. I want to invite Father to stay in the village for a few days. When the residence is renovated, I'll bring Father back.”

Qin Canglan hesitated.

With Qin Che's understanding of his father, whenever he heard that there was a horse, he could not even eat and could not wait to see the horse.

Qin Canglan was indeed very tempted by the desert horse, but for some reason, he did not want to leave.

Qin Che looked at Qin Canglan deeply and said in a low voice, “Father, Uncle Zhao is sick… very seriously.”

Zhao Quan was a small soldier under Qin Canglan. He had risked his life with Qin Canglan. Among the initial batch of trusted subordinates, only Zhao Quan was left.

Qin Canglan sighed. “Prepare the carriage. I'll go see him.”

Qin Che said, “It's getting late. Why don't we leave tomorrow morning…”

Qin Canglan waved his hand. “No, let's move.”

At his age, he was afraid that he could not send Zhao Quan off for the last time.

Fifteen minutes later, Qin Canglan got into the carriage and left the Protector Duke's Estate.

Looking at the carriage disappearing at the end of the street, Qin Che's eyes turned cold.

When his father went to the village, he would realize that Zhao Quan was not so seriously ill. His father might return soon, but it did not matter.

He already knew where that person lived.

It was enough to get rid of him before his father returned!

Perhaps he had misjudged, but so what?

He would rather kill a hundred wrongly than let anyone off!

Dark clouds rolled in the sky, and Qin Canglan's hand hurt again.

He was used to it.

However, perhaps because he had used painkillers yesterday, the pain was especially intense after the effect.

He rubbed his trembling wrist and subconsciously reached into his pocket to take out the painkillers.

Along with the painkillers was an ordinary stone.

Wasn't this Erhu's lucky stone?

Why was it with him?

After Erhu asked his mother how much the golden bean was worth, he resolved to give the lucky stone to Qin Canglan and stuffed it into his pocket while playing.

Qin Canglan didn't know. He thought that it had accidentally fallen from Erhu's hands while playing.

He remembered that Erhu treasured this small stone very much…

Even though in the eyes of adults, a stone was worthless, a child's care was different from an adult's.

He remembered that Che'er treasured an egg when he was two or three years old. He carried it everywhere and even hugged it when he slept. He said that he wanted to hatch it.

One day, when he woke up, the little guy realized that the egg had shattered, and cried for three days.

Thinking of Erhu crying, Qin Canglan smiled helplessly and said to the coachman, “Turn around and go to Pear Blossom Lane.”

Su Cheng had just taken a shower.

When Qin Canglan pushed open the courtyard door, Su Cheng had just come out with dirty clothes.

Qin Canglan saw him.

This time, there was no stove ash or blood. Su Cheng's handsome face was clean.

Qin Canglan's mind instantly went blank.

By the time he reacted, he was already in front of Su Cheng.

Su Cheng looked at him strangely. “What's wrong?”

Qin Canglan looked at him without blinking. For some reason, he asked, “Last time… I forgot to ask your name. What's your name?”

He was just asking for a name. Why did he make it so scary? If it was not because he had saved Dahu, Su Cheng would have beaten him up.

Su Cheng said, “My name is Su Cheng!”

Qin Canglan controlled his trembling body. “Su what?”

Su Cheng said word by word, “Su Cheng!”

“Qin Canglan, listen carefully. From today onwards, my son has nothing to do with you! His name is not Qin Che. He takes my surname, Su, and is called Su Cheng!”

Chapter 248

Su Cheng was confused. “I know my name is good, but you don't have to do this. After all, you're from the capital. Can you act like you've seen the world?”

Qin Canglan did not know how he left Pear Blossom Lane.

Spring rain began to fall. He walked awkwardly in the rain, oblivious to the oil-paper umbrella held above his head.

“Old Duke? Why are you here? It's raining heavily. Didn't you bring a servant?”

The servant of the Marquis of Zhenbei held an umbrella for him.

He was so tall that the servant had to stand on his tiptoes.

“Is your Marquis around?”

“Yes, yes!” The servant hurriedly said, “Are you going to visit the Marquis? I'll get you a big umbrella first!”

Qin Canglan did not say anything. He pushed him away and resolutely walked into the rain.

The servant chased after him. “Old Duke! Old Duke!”

Boom!

A deafening explosion resounded in the rainy sky. The servant felt that his eardrums had been blown apart.

Lightning and thunder flashed. The world flickered, and even the ground seemed to be trembling.

The servant did not dare to chase after him.

It was important to entertain guests, but his life was more important!

The servant hid in the pavilion.

The rain suddenly became heavier. He could vaguely see a tall figure stumbling in the heavy rain.

It was unknown if it was because the ground was too slippery or if he was in a daze.

He fell heavily, the mud wrapping around him.

He wiped his face and got up with both hands. Then, he slipped again.

The servant did not count how many times the Old Duke had slipped. He could feel the embarrassment and urgency on the Old Duke.

This man had protected Great Zhou for half his life; he was a general who seemed to be able to fight on the battlefield for his entire life. At this moment, he only had the hobble and hunch of an old man.

The Old Marquis had just finished his medicine.

Physician Fu took his pulse and blood pressure. He said that he was recovering well and could get out of bed in three to five days.

Clang!

The door was slammed open and a man covered in mud and rain barged in.

He was taller and stronger than ordinary men. Coupled with his domineering aura, he scared the stethoscope out of Physician Fu's hand!

The Old Marquis was very calm.

He looked at Qin Canglan cunningly and said to Physician Fu, “Go back to your room and rest for a while.”

Physician Fu looked at the fierce Qin Canglan and stammered, “Is… is this really fine?”

This person looked so fierce!

“It's fine. Go,” the Old Marquis said.

Physician Fu could only go, but he was really worried about the Old Marquis. He did not return to his room but went to Su Mo's courtyard in the rain.

The Old Marquis said to Little Quanzi, “Clothes.”

Qin Canglan panted. “There's no need!”

The Old Marquis said, “Leave.”

Little Quanzi went out and only the two of them were left in the room.

The two of them had known each other since they were young for decades. They had personally seen each other transform from inexperienced youths to veterans on the battlefield.

They had witnessed each other's glory and experienced each other's difficulties.

They watched as the other party aged bit by bit. When they suddenly looked back, their youth was already gone.

They had also gone against each other and lived their own lives.

But no matter what, as long as they could still breathe, they would always have a common bond—Su Huayin.

The Old Marquis said, “You're in such a hurry to see me because you saw that child, right?”

Generals were not as scheming as civil officials, but that did not mean that they were brainless.

If he was really not shrewd at all, he could not lead the army to war with just a little brute force.

“You brought them to the capital?”

Qin Canglan had asked Su Cheng where they were from and why they had come to the capital.

The Old Marquis did not think that there was anything to hide.

“It was me,” he said.

Qin Canglan frowned and said, “Su Shuo, what do you mean by this? Finding two people similar to Qin Che and Hua Yin… What are you trying to do!”

The Old Marquis looked at him indifferently. “Qin Canglan, are they really just similar? I could see Hua Yin's shadow the first time I saw them. Can you really not tell?”

Qin Canglan raised his voice. “That's why I asked you what you want to do!”

The Old Marquis said, “Qin Canglan, that child is your flesh and blood with Huayin.”

The child he was talking about was Su Cheng.

Regardless of whether Su Cheng was already a father or not, in their eyes, he was still the child from back then.

“Grandfather.”

Su Mo's voice appeared outside the door.

The Old Marquis glanced at Qin Canglan. Qin Canglan's back was facing the light, and his entire face was covered in shadows. Only the rain on his body could be heard dripping to the ground.

“Come in,” the Old Marquis said.

Su Mo pushed open the door. A strong wind mixed with heavy rain poured in. Su Mo's clothes were also wet, and the hair at his temples stuck to his young and handsome face.

When Physician Fu went to look for him and told him that a fierce and terrifying uninvited guest had come to the residence, Su Mo had more or less guessed it.

The progress of the matter was not as expected. It was unknown which step accelerated the process. In short, it was much faster than the original plan.

Fortunately, the Marquis of Zhenbei had made full preparations from the beginning.

Qin Canglan said in a daze, “Do you know what you're saying? I don't remember having a second child with Huayin…”

The Old Marquis sighed. “Qin Canglan, you already have the answer in your heart, right? You're just here to verify it with me. Alright, Mo'er, bring them in.”

“Yes, Grandpa,” Su Mo agreed respectfully. He turned around and said to the door, “Come in.”

Qin Canglan turned around and looked out the door.

In the heavy rain, a grandfather and grandson entered in a sorry state. One of them was old, and the other was about the same age as Su Mo.

The two of them were none other than Old Master Su and his eldest grandson, Su Dalang.

Qin Canglan looked at the two of them in a daze. “They are…”

The Old Marquis said, “The right pendant of Huayin is on you.”

“…Yes.”

After Qin Che returned to the residence, he gave him the jade pendant.

The Old Marquis looked at Old Master Su and Su Dalang coldly. “Since you are here, come and identify yourself. Is the jade pendant in the Old Duke's hand the one your Su family stole from Su Cheng back then and sold?”

The rain poured.

The rain came in a hurry. The three children did not stay at home obediently and ran out to step on the puddles.

Su Xiaoxiao and Su Ergou were making snacks in the kitchen while Su Cheng went to catch the three of them.

Tsk!

Dahu stepped into the small mud pit.

Su Cheng took Dahu away.

Erhu went to step on it again.

When Erhu finished stepping, Xiaohu took his turn.

After Xiaohu finished stepping, Dahu came back for seconds.

Su Cheng was flustered. It was not easy for him to fish all three little fellows in. The eldest and the three little ones were drenched. The entire family was drenched.

Which family didn't have brats?

However, they had a nest of bears!

Su Cheng helped the three of them change their clothes and dry their hair. His face was dark the entire time.

However, the three children were not afraid of him at all. They shook their heads and made faces, extremely arrogant.

Su Cheng said, “Hmph, when your father comes back, I'll let him deal with you!”

As soon as he finished speaking, there was a knock on the door.

Su Cheng immediately threatened, “Your father is back! Let's see how you escape today.”

The three little fellows immediately covered their butts and went to the kitchen.

Mother!

Help…

Su Cheng opened the door with an umbrella.

However, it was not Wei Ting who appeared in the heavy rain, but Qin Canglan.

Qin Canglan ran all the way in the rain. Who knew how many times he fell? He was no longer a drenched chicken, but a drenched beggar's chicken.

Su Cheng was surprised. “Uh… Uncle Qin? Why are you at my house so late?”

His internal monologue was: I exerted a lot of self-control to resist extorting you. Don't come knocking on my door again…

Qin Canglan's eyes were red, and the corners of his bloodshot mouth trembled slightly.

Su Cheng muttered, “Do you think you are very scary?”

What kind of look was that?

It was as if he was going to eat him at any moment—

Su Cheng took a small step to the left.

Qin Canglan's throat was swollen and painful. Hot tears flowed out of his eyes and mixed with the cold rain.

He reached out shakily to Su Cheng and touched his face.

It had been thirty years…

His child…

This was thirty years late—

Su Cheng's eyes darted around as he quietly grabbed the stick by the door.

Su Cheng jumped up!

“Ha!”

With this stern shout, Su Cheng hit Qin Canglan's head with his club, knocking him down!

For Dahu's sake, he had tolerated this guy for a long time!

This guy grabbed his wrist during the day. He had yet to settle scores with him, but now, in the middle of the night, he actually came to touch him…

Pervert!

He, the dignified bully of Apricot Flower Village, had earned his reputation through his own ability!

Su Xiaoxiao walked out. “Dad, what happened?”

Su Cheng pointed at the ground angrily. “This old fellow! He touched my face and I knocked him out!”

Su Xiaoxiao recognized Qin Canglan as he lay with his eyes closed.

Wasn't this the old Protector Duke, Qin Canglan?

Her father was the first person in the Great Zhou to dare to knock on Qin Canglan with a club. The grass on his grave was already two meters tall.

Wait, what did her father say just now?

Qin Canglan touched his face.

Could it be that Qin Canglan had already…

Chapter 249

This was the largest rain that the capital had welcomed since spring. The magnificent capital was enveloped in a violent storm, and even the palace guarded by the emperor was no exception.

In the imperial study, Emperor Jing Xuan was reviewing the memorials.

Bean-sized raindrops hit the door and windows, but Emperor Jing Xuan seemed to not notice.

It was not until Eunuch Fu reminded him softly, “Your Majesty, it's getting late. Rest for a while.”

Emperor Jing Xuan rubbed his sore eyebrows. “What time is it?”

Eunuch Fu said, “It's midnight.”

Emperor Jing Xuan said, “Who was here just now?”

Eunuch Fu smiled and said, “Yumei from Qixiang Palace.”

Emperor Jing Xuan frowned. “Is Consort Xian in trouble again?”

Eunuch Fu smiled. “The thunder was loud and shocked Consort Xian.”

Emperor Jing Xuan thought for a moment and said, “I'll go see Consort Xian later.”

“Yes.” Eunuch Fu waved at the young eunuch outside the door.

The young eunuch understood and quickly went to Qi Xiang Palace to report.

Emperor Jing Xuan looked tired. He looked at the mountain of memorials on the table and took another one.

Eunuch Fu wanted to say something but hesitated. He walked forward and turned the wick brighter.

Emperor Jing Xuan did feel that his vision was a little blurry. “You're still the most considerate.”

Eunuch Fu did not dare to take credit.

Emperor Jing Xuan continued, “Has Wei Xichao left?”

Eunuch Fu said awkwardly, “No, Lord Wei is kneeling in the side hall. Without your decree, he doesn't dare to leave.”

Emperor Jing Xuan mocked indifferently, “Are you sure he's kneeling?”

“Uh… this…” Eunuch Fu laughed dryly.

Generally speaking, one had to kneel and wait after angering the emperor, but was the youngest son of the Wei family an ordinary person?

He was usually not human when he woke up.

Emperor Jing Xuan said coldly, “Get him in!”

Not long after, Wei Ting was brought into the imperial study by the young eunuch.

Wei Ting entered the palace early in the morning, but Emperor Jing Xuan ignored him for the entire day.

Others had been left hanging for so long and were already trembling in fear. They did not know when the dragon might flare up on them.

This fellow did not mistreat himself. He ate and drank as he should.

Emperor Jing Xuan was angry when he saw him.

“You're quite bold. You dare to return to the capital without my decree!”

Wei Ting cupped his hands. “Your Majesty, my ancestor sent me a dream…”

Emperor Jing Xuan interrupted him. “Speak human language!”

Wei Ting said, “I was wrong. I want to come back.”

Emperor Jing Xuan snorted. “Heh!”

Emperor Jing Xuan could not understand. The Wei family, from Old General Wei to the sixth son, were all loyal and honest generals. Why did they become associated with shamelessness when it came to Wei Ting?

Did this kid have any shame?

Emperor Jing Xuan said with a dragon's might, “Where's your backbone? Or have you finally agreed to marry my princess?”

Wei Ting sighed. “I didn't agree. The princess's precious body…”

Emperor Jing Xuan said coldly, “Don't say that you're not worthy!”

Wei Ting replied seriously, “No, the princess is naturally worthy of me.”

Listen, what kind of nonsense was this?

It was as if Princess Hui An was not in his league!

Eunuch Fu broke out in cold sweat.

Lord Wei really dared to speak his mind.

Wei Ting changed the topic. “However, Your Majesty, I don't have any personal feelings for Princess Hui An. A forcefully twisted melon isn't sweet.”

Emperor Jing Xuan said in a low voice, “If you marry Hui An and spend some time with her, you will naturally understand the virtues of Hui An!”

Princess Hui An was the most beautiful princess in the royal family and was talented. The emperor did not believe that Wei Ting would be indifferent to such a beauty every day.

Wei Ting did not argue further on this topic. Instead, he said seriously, “Moreover, the northern bandits have not been eliminated, and the sea bandits have not been eliminated. I still want to serve Your Majesty for a few more years.”

These words were just short of saying that he didn't want to hand over his military power.

No one knew what Emperor Jing Xuan was thinking.

In short, 15 minutes later, Wei Ting came out of the Imperial Study safely.

The secret guard walked forward with an umbrella. “Young Master, His Majesty didn't make things difficult for you, right? You've been locked up inside for a day!”

Wei Ting said calmly, “Correction, I stayed for a day.”

The word “locked” sounded very embarrassing, okay?

The secret guard: “Oh. Then, did His Majesty ask you to return to the temple?”

Wei Ting said, “No.”

The secret guard said in surprise, “In that case, you don't have to be a monk anymore?”

Wei Ting said arrogantly, “Of course not. I… renounce asceticism!”

“Brother Xichao!”

Not far away, Princess Hui An, who was dressed in a lake blue beautiful palace dress, walked towards Wei Ting in the rain.

The palace maid held an oil-paper umbrella for her.

This scene was as beautiful as a painting.

Chapter 250

Wei Ting pressed his palms together. “Amitabha. Benefactor, my Dharma name is Xuan Xin.”

The secret guard was speechless.

So was Princess Hui An.

After Wei Ting left the palace, Princess Hui An returned to Qi Xiang Palace with grievances.

She threw herself into Consort Xian's arms and said with tears in her beautiful eyes, “Mother… Father is too much…”

Consort Xian hugged her delicate daughter and asked in amusement, “How did your father go overboard?”

In the entire world, only Princess Hui An dared to criticize the emperor like this. How could other princes and princesses say anything about the emperor?

But the emperor happened to dote on Hui An…

Princess Hui An said aggrievedly, “Brother Xichao has returned to the capital. I saw him in the palace just now… but he hasn't renounced asceticism…”

In Hui An's opinion, it must be his father who did not let Wei Ting renounce asceticism.

She could not bear to blame Wei Ting, so she could only blame her father.

Consort Xian's expression lightened. “I thought it was something important.”

Princess Hui An straightened up and looked at Consort Xian with a hurt expression. “Isn't this important?”

Consort Xian smiled perfunctorily. “Yes, yes. When your father comes over later, I'll plead for you and ask your father to exempt Wei Ting from becoming a monk.”

Princess Hui An snorted. “That's more like it!”

She went to play happily again.

Consort Xian asked, “Where are you going in this rain?”

Princess Hui An raised her chin and said, “I'm going to find Jingning!”

She wanted to bully Jingning!

Consort Xian had a headache. When had she ever taken advantage of Jingning?

Jingning's birth characters were good, and His Majesty was already considering conferring her as the royal princess with national guardianship.

Anything that was related to the word “national guardian” was extraordinary.

No matter how her daughter was doted on, she was just a doted princess.

Jingning was different. If she was really conferred the title, she would be comparable to a duke.

Consort Xian couldn't bear to see her daughter court death in front of Jingning again and again. She said to her daughter, “Stop it. Your third brother is coming back soon.”

It was raining heavily in the capital. Far south, in Feng County, it was also drizzling.

Young Master Xiang… should be called Xiao Zhonghua now.

He was wearing a silver-gray cloak and standing under the corridor of the courier station.

His left arm was injured, and the bandage could be vaguely seen.

Jing Yi walked over from the rain with a long sword in his hand.

His blade dripped with blood and flowed all the way.

“Are you injured?” Xiao Zhonghua asked.

“No,” Jing Yi said.

Xiao Zhonghua handed him a clean handkerchief.

Jing Yi did not use it to wipe his face. Instead, he used it to wipe his sword.

The sword was more important than the face.

Xiao Zhonghua asked calmly, “How many waves of assassins were there?”

“Thirteen,” Jing Yi replied.

Xiao Zhonghua touched the wound on his arm. “How ruthless…”

Jing Yi said nothing.

He knew that the youngest son of the Wei family was ruthless, but he did not expect him to be so ruthless.

“I didn't expect it either. I underestimated him in the past.” Xiao Zhonghua smiled faintly. “If you hadn't stood in front of me last night, I wouldn't have only injured my arm. I might have died.”

That sword had gone straight for Xiao Zhonghua's heart. Jing Yi used his body as a shield, and the other party changed his move at the last minute. In the end, he only scratched Xiao Zhonghua's arm.

Xiao Zhonghua said casually, “Wei Ting's assassin doesn't seem to want to hurt you.”

Jing Yi frowned. “Cousin…”

Xiao Zhonghua raised his hand. “There's no need to explain. I know very well what Wei Ting is up to. He wants to sow discord between us and make me misunderstand that you have a private relationship with him. Jing Yi, I've said it before. You're the person I trust the most. I won't doubt you.”

Jing Yi pondered and said, “I really don't know why his people didn't kill me.”

Xiao Zhonghua smiled. “It's just a small trick. I won't fall for it. Don't take it to heart.”

When Wei Ting came out of the palace, the rain was a little lighter.

He got into the carriage.

The secret guard said, “Young Master, are you going back to the Wei family?”

Wei Ting said coldly, “Have I not settled the score with you for what you said to Grandmother?”

The secret guard grabbed the reins. “Aiya, it's so late. The Wei family's door must be closed. Let's go to Pear Blossom Lane!”

When the carriage entered Pear Blossom Lane, an unfamiliar man in a raincoat and a bamboo hat came out. He had a long sword at his waist.

He had covered himself tightly, but how observant was Wei Ting?

He glanced at the emblem on his sword.

Someone from the Protector Duke's Estate?

At the Protector Duke's Estate.

Qin Che was not sleepy at all.

The kitchen had stewed tonic soup, but he could not even drink a mouthful.

Chapter 251

He paced around the house. Qin Yanran came to look for him twice, but he dismissed her perfunctorily.

Qin Yun's attendant came once, but he did not see him.

He had mobilized the most elite subordinates in the residence. Logically speaking, he would not fail. But why was he so uneasy?

The servant pushed the door open. “Master, Xu Qing is here.”

Xu Qing was the subordinate he had sent out for the assasination.

Qin Che hurriedly said, “Let him in quickly!”

Xu Qing entered the house.

Qin Che instructed the servant, “Close the door and don't let anyone approach.”

“Yes, Master.” The servant retreated, closed the door, and guarded it warily.

Qin Che asked impatiently, “Did you succeed?”

Xu Qing took off his bamboo hat, revealing a ferocious scar on the right side of his face.

“No,” he said.

Qin Che was stunned. “How can that be? Aren't you…”

Wasn't he the most powerful expert in the residence?

Otherwise, it would be very difficult for him to become a guard in the residence with this incomplete appearance.

It was not that the Protectorate judged people by their appearance, but that the Qin family was rich. They could hire any powerful guard, so why did they have to choose someone with a disabled appearance?

Qin Che snorted coldly. “Don't tell me you can't do it?”

Xu Qing lowered his head and said, “Xu Qing's life was given by Old Master. Xu Qing will only be loyal to Old Master in his life.”

Qin Che said, “Then why didn't you do anything?”

Xu Qing said, “I didn't have a chance.”

Qin Che looked at him strangely. “What do you mean?”

Xu Qing paused and said truthfully, “Old Master went to Pear Blossom Lane.”

Qin Che's body swayed. “W-what? Didn't my father… go to the manor?”

Xu Qing recalled, “I'm not sure either. When I rushed to Pear Blossom Lane to make a move, Old Master appeared in the rain.”

Actually, Qin Canglan had gone twice, but when he returned Little Stone to Erhu for the first time, Xu Qing had yet to set off.

Cold sweat broke out on Qin Che's forehead. “Then, then?”

Xu Qing said, “Then, that man called Su Cheng knocked Old Master out.”

Qin Che was dumbfounded.

In the room with the oil lamp, Qin Canglan slowly woke up from his sleep.

The general's physique was not exaggerated. He was really strong. After being hit by Su Cheng, he actually regained consciousness in less than an hour.

He realized that he was lying in an unfamiliar house. He did not panic and calmly adapted to the light.

Then, he turned around and saw three furry heads. For some reason, his heart softened.

He was probably… really old.

The three of them sat on the ground and played with building blocks.

Xiaohu was the first to notice that he had woken up. He tilted his head and glanced at him. “Great-Grandpa is awake.”

Dahu and Erhu turned their heads at the same time.

Erhu ran out and pulled Su Xiaoxiao in. He pointed at Qin Canglan on the bed. “He's awake.”

Su Xiaoxiao touched Erhu's head. “Got it. Go play with Grandpa.”

This was Su Ergou's room.

Xiaohu came to Su Xiaoxiao and handed his head to her. He raised his small hand and patted the top of his head.

“Xiaohu wants it too.”

Su Xiaoxiao touched him in amusement.

Dahu stood by the bed for a while. After confirming that Qin Canglan was really awake, he pointed at himself. “Who am I?”

“Dahu?” Qin Canglan was actually not sure. The triplets looked too similar, and he could not tell them apart.

Dahu nodded in satisfaction and extended two more fingers. “How many are these?”

Qin Canglan replied strangely, “Two?”

‘What kind of question is that?'

“Ok.”

It seemed that he had not been beaten into a fool. Dahu was relieved. He turned around and walked towards Su Xiaoxiao, asking for a pat.

Then, the three little ones went to Su Cheng's room.

Su Mo had been here.

Qin Canglan's expression was clearly not right when he left the Marquis of Zhenbei's Estate. Su Mo was worried that he would return to the Protectorate first, causing something to happen, so he followed him.

With Qin Canglan's strength, there were less than five people who could tail him.

It was because the matter was too big that Qin Canglan was on the verge of collapse.

Fortunately, Su Mo was not an enemy. Had it been an assassin, he would definitely have succeeded.

Su Mo told Su Xiaoxiao the ins and outs of the matter, so Su Xiaoxiao knew that Qin Canglan already knew Su Cheng's background.

Su Xiaoxiao came to the bed and looked at Qin Canglan calmly.

In comparison, Qin Canglan was not so calm.

He saw Su Xiaoxiao and suddenly sat up.

Su Cheng did not show any mercy. Qin Canglan felt that his head was almost shattered. He covered his forehead in pain, but he accidentally covered the big bump that Su Cheng had punched out, and this hurt even more.

Moreover, it was accompanied by a certain retching reaction.

“Don't move,” Su Xiaoxiao said. “It's best to lie back down slowly.”

She seriously suspected that her biological father had knocked Qin Canglan out with a slight concussion.

Qin Canglan did not feel that he was in serious trouble. He lifted the blanket and wanted to get out of bed. Unexpectedly, as soon as he stood up, he felt the world spin.

His legs went weak and he fell back onto the bed in a sorry state.

Su Xiaoxiao opened the small medicine box and said solemnly, “I told you not to move.”

She took out a stethoscope and blood pressure gauge, tied Qin Canglan's arm, and measured his blood pressure.

Qin Canglan looked at his arm and then at these strange things. He could not help but ask, “What are you doing?”

Su Xiaoxiao hung up the stethoscope. “Taking your pulse.”

Qin Canglan did not understand what she meant.

Qin Canglan stopped moving and obediently let Su Xiaoxiao… take his pulse.

“You… know medicine?”

When he came out of the Marquis of Zhenbei's Estate, he felt that he had not left quickly enough. Now, he regretted leaving early.

He should ask the old monkey for more information…

“Don't speak,” Su Xiaoxiao said calmly.

Qin Canglan immediately shut up.

To be honest, he had not even been so obedient when receiving the Imperial Edict.

Su Xiaoxiao took his blood pressure and listened to his pulse seriously.

Qin Canglan secretly sized up Su Xiaoxiao.

He glanced at her again.

The little fat girl was cute.

Like Hua Yin.

Su Xiaoxiao said solemnly, “As a patient, you should not be so agitated.”

How high was his blood pressure?

Did he want to have a stroke at his age?

Qin Canglan coughed lightly and took a deep breath, trying to calm the excitement in his heart.

Su Xiaoxiao watched his blood pressure drop bit by bit.

However, in less than three seconds, it flew even higher than before!

Su Xiaoxiao was speechless.

It couldn't be helped. His little fat granddaughter was too cute.

Qin Canglan saw his fat granddaughter's expression darken and he suddenly looked like an old child who had done something wrong and was caught red-handed.

He sat cross-legged on the bed and lowered his head, looking innocent. “I-I couldn't help it.”

Chapter 252

Su Xiaoxiao put away the stethoscope and blood pressure gauge and handed him a bowl of freshly brewed medicine.

Qin Canglan hated drinking medicine.

However, this was handed over by his granddaughter. It was most likely made by her.

Thinking of this, he gritted his teeth and poured the medicine into his mouth.

Su Xiaoxiao took the empty bowl and reminded him, “I need to observe your head injury for a night.”

Qin Canglan's eyes lit up. “You mean I can sleep here tonight?”

Su Xiaoxiao nodded.

A concussion was not a small matter. He had to stay for observation.

Su Xiaoxiao treated Qin Canglan as a patient. Therefore, from the beginning to the end, she was very calm.

Qin Canglan could not calm down.

When he suddenly found out that the son he had raised for many years was not his biological son, it was like being struck by lightning.

His mind was still buzzing. He had to use a lot of restraint to maintain his composure.

“Well…”

He opened his mouth, not knowing what to say.

The old general who killed without batting an eyelid was at a loss in front of a little girl.

Su Xiaoxiao packed her things and was about to leave when Qin Canglan made up his mind and stopped her. “Daya?”

She was called this, right? He had asked the old monkey. The elder sister was called Su Daya, and the younger brother was called Su Ergou. Coincidentally, they were actually the same age as Qin Yanran and her brother.

Thinking of Qin Yanran and Qin Yun, Qin Canglan's eyes turned cold.

If Su Cheng was the real Qin Che, then what was going on with the one in the residence?

He thought about how everything he had done all these years was the result of a scheme; he had raised a stranger's child while his own flesh and blood wandered among the commoners, starving and freezing, as he lived like a beggar.

He hated him deeply!

He hated the person who schemed against him and hated himself!

“What's the matter?” Su Xiaoxiao asked.

Qin Canglan looked at Su Xiaoxiao nervously. “That… that… that… I… I…”

He stuttered!

Su Xiaoxiao tilted her head. “Where are you feeling unwell?”

“No!” He tensed solemnly and tried to sit up, but was defeated by the headache and dizziness.

He said to Su Xiaoxiao anxiously and uneasily, “I'm your grandfather, your father, Su Cheng… is my biological son!”

He finally said it!

Then he blushed.

The last time he was so flustered was when he got married to Su Huayin.

In the blink of an eye, most of his life had passed.

He was afraid that if he didn't say anything, it would be too late.

“Oh, I know,” Su Xiaoxiao said.

Qin Canglan was stunned.

Little girl… What did she mean?

She, she knew long ago?

The old monkey did not say!

Qin Canglan cursed Su Shuo 70 to 80 times in his heart. Then, his gaze landed on Su Xiaoxiao's face again. “Can you…”

Could she call him grandfather?

Forget it. He had yet to digest the truth after such a big thing happened, let alone a little girl.

He should give her more time.

“Your father… and Ergou…”

Su Xiaoxiao understood what he wanted to ask. “They don't know. My father doesn't remember what happened before he was six years old. If he remembers, his illness will flare up. It's very painful. When he wakes up, he forgets. Before I find a suitable treatment, you'd better not agitate him.”

“I… I understand.”

Qin Canglan agreed with difficulty.

An extremely strong sense of self-blame surged in his heart.

A six-year-old child had lost everything overnight. He had gone from being the young master of the Duke's Estate to a cowherd in the countryside.

How had he endured it?

Qin Canglan's heart ached.

His throat was swollen. “It's been hard on you all these years…”

Su Xiaoxiao didn't say anything else and prepared to leave with the small medicine box.

“By the way.” Qin Canglan took out a small stone from his pocket. “This is Erhu's. He left it on me.”

Su Xiaoxiao took the stone and left the room.

Su Ergou went to Father Su's room to sleep. The three little ones were in her room, and so was Wei Ting.

The three little ones had slept too much during the day and were not sleepy now. They somersaulted on the bed!

“Erhu, your stone.” Su Xiaoxiao handed him the small stone.

Erhu said, “I gave it to Great-Grandpa.”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “He asked me to return it to you.”

Erhu thought for a moment. “Okay.”

He happily accepted the stone!

He decided that if there was a chance next time, he would give the big man a big one!

The three little ones called him great-grandpa not because they knew Qin Canglan's identity. Su Cheng was a grandfather early and they had met people much older than him in the countryside. The little fellows called these people great-grandpa.

Old Li was Great-Grandpa Li, and the village head was Great-Grandpa Guo.

Qin Canglan relied on his unique appearance to successfully obtain the longest title—Big Great-Grandfather.

“It's time to sleep,” Wei Ting said to the three brats.

The three of them did not sleep.

Su Xiaoxiao said to Wei Ting, “Come out for a moment. I have something to tell you.”

The two of them came to the door and left it ajar.

The rain stopped.

The air was filled with the smell of rain and soil.

Su Xiaoxiao scratched her head. “Um… you should know who my father is.”

“Su Mo said so.” Wei Ting's expression was very calm as if what Su Mo had mentioned was not worth mentioning in his eyes.

Su Xiaoxiao continued, “Then, there's someone lying in Ergou's room. It's Qin Canglan.”

Wei Ting was speechless.

Killing intent flashed across Wei Ting's eyes.

Su Xiaoxiao looked at him unblinkingly. There was a huge grudge between them.

“Are you angry?” Su Xiaoxiao asked.

“No…” Wei Ting subconsciously retorted. He paused and said, “I'm not angry with you. The grudges of the older generation have nothing to do with you.”

Ever since the little girl was born, she had never eaten a grain of rice from the Marquis of Zhenbei's Estate and the Protector Duke's Estate. What did the grudge between the two families have to do with her?

Su Xiaoxiao nodded. She didn't think it had much to do with her.

She was a lonely soul from another world. She accepted Father Su and Su Ergou because they relied on one another.

If the Qin family and the Su family were good, it would be the icing on the cake. If they were not, it was fine if she did not acknowledge them.

No matter what, she would support this family.

Under the night sky, Su Xiaoxiao looked at him quietly. “Can I ask what grudge there is between the Wei family and the Qin and Su families?”

Wei Ting hesitated for a moment and said in a low voice, “When the previous emperor was alive, he did not appoint a crown prince. The princes fought openly and secretly for that dragon throne. The Wei family was loyal to the eldest son of the previous emperor, Prince Nanyang, and the Su family was loyal to Prince Ruyang. At first, the Qin family did not stand on any side. After marrying the Su family, they also became supporters of Prince Ruyang.”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “It sounds like… they each have their own plans.”

Su Xiaoxiao's speech was definitely not like that of a village girl. This was something that Wei Ting would sigh about from time to time no matter how long he interacted with her.

Although he had taught her some words, he had not taught her those so-called articles and principles.

“Who became the emperor later?” Su Xiaoxiao asked.

“Prince Ruyang,” Wei Ting said.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “So the Wei family was on the wrong side?”

“Sort of,” Wei Ting said. “After Prince Ruyang ascended the throne, he had always wanted to take back the Wei family's military power.”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Has he taken it back?”

Wei Ting looked at the endless sky, and a dark glint flashed across his eyes. “He took back some.”

After all, they were old subordinates of King Nanyang. It was not surprising that the emperor had a grudge against the Wei family.

Su Xiaoxiao continued, “Was it distributed it to the Qin family and the Su family?”

“There's also the Leng family,” Wei Ting said. “The Leng family was on the same side as the Wei family. We can barely be considered to have kept the goodies to ourselves.”

Su Xiaoxiao frowned. “If it's just political disagreements…”

“More than that,” Wei Ting said.

However, he did not say what grudges there were.

Su Xiaoxiao didn't force him.

She could tell that he was not in a good mood. Tolerating Qin Canglan under one roof was already his greatest concession.

“Oh yes.”

Wei Ting hesitated for a moment before telling him what he had just found out. “The guard of the Protectorate has been here. He doesn't seem to be Qin Canlan's subordinate.”

If he was Qin Canglan's subordinate, he would definitely be guarding near Qin Canglan.

Wei Ting said, “There's something else. Perhaps you need to know too.”

Su Xiaoxiao was stunned. “What?”

“Qin Canglan was originally going to stay at the manor outside the city today. It was Qin Che who asked him to go. For some reason, he came to Pear Blossom Lane.”

After Wei Ting saw the unfamiliar guard, he asked the secret guard to secretly follow him and investigate the Protectorate. He found some traces of Qin Canglan's movements.

Su Xiaoxiao pondered for a moment. “He… should be here to return Erhu's Little Stone.”

Many things that could not be explained were now clear.

It turned out that Erhu had led him here by chance.

Wei Ting glanced at her and warned, “Be careful. Perhaps Qin Che already knows of Dad's existence.”

Su Xiaoxiao looked at him meaningfully. “You called him Dad quite smoothly.”

Wei Ting said coldly, “Get to the point.”

“Oh.” Su Xiaoxiao raised her eyebrows. “You just called him Dad easily!”

Wei Ting was speechless.

Chapter 253

Wei Ting had a mission tonight and went out again in the latter half of the night.

Su Xiaoxiao sighed again. After coming to the capital, Wei Ting had been much busier.

“My aesthetics attack in the morning is gone again…”

Su Xiaoxiao yawned and grabbed a little packrat to use as a pillow before falling asleep.

Before dawn, Su Mo came over.

Su Xiaoxiao was making breakfast in the kitchen.

Seeing her, Su Mo was slightly surprised. “You slept well last night.”

After such a big incident, this girl could actually sleep?

What kind of steel heart was this?

“It's alright,” Su Xiaoxiao said.

It was not like she could do anything with a man. How could she not sleep well?

“Is Uncle alright?” Su Mo asked.

“I haven't told my father,” Su Xiaoxiao said.

Su Mo nodded. “It won't be too late to tell him later when Uncle slowly adapts. How's Granduncle?”

Su Xiaoxiao cut the tidied dough into strips. “He stayed for the entire night. It's fine. The medicine I gave him contains calming ingredients. He probably won't wake up for another two to four hours. Have you eaten breakfast?”

Su Mo rushed over and did not eat at all.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “I'll make your share.”

Su Mo… did not refuse.

Su Xiaoxiao spread out two scallion pancakes, filled them with a small plate of pickled radishes, and placed them on the small table in the kitchen.

“Do you want to eat in the central room?” she asked.

The young master of the Marquis Mansion had never eaten anything in the kitchen, nor had he ever eaten the onion pancakes on the street.

Su Mo revealed a rare stunned expression.

He looked at Su Xiaoxiao and saw that she was busy at the stove again. “You're not eating?”

“I'll eat this.” Su Xiaoxiao pointed at the steamed sweet potato that had just been served on the stove. “I'll eat it later. I have to make breakfast for my family first.”

“I'll wait for you.”

Su Mo sat down on the small stool.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “There's no need. It won't taste good when it's cold.”

“Did you do all of this alone? This is too tiring. I'll pick two maidservants for you tomorrow and send them over. How can I let you take care of the entire family alone?”

As soon as he finished speaking, footsteps came from the courtyard.

Wei Ting had returned.

Wei Ting carried a bundle of firewood on his shoulder.

On the way, he encountered Zhong Shan. The carriage Zhong Shan was using was broken, and it was difficult for the old man to carry it alone. Wei Ting took the firewood without a word.

Wei Ting did not know that Su Mo was also there. He only saw him after entering the house.

Su Mo was also surprised. He looked at Wei Ting… To be precise, he looked at the bundle of firewood on Wei Ting's shoulder and seriously suspected that he had seen it wrongly.

People who fought in wars could endure hardships, but the hardships on the battlefield were different from the hardships in life.

Wei Ting did not start as the lowest-level servant. He was from the Wei family and had the halo of the Wei family's legitimate grandson. After entering the military camp, he was a regular army officer.

Young Master Wei had probably never chopped firewood and carried water in his life.

“You're back,” Su Xiaoxiao greeted Wei Ting.

“Yes.” Wei Ting looked away from Su Mo and naturally put down the firewood. He quickly moved a small stool and sat down at the stove.

Su Mo thought that he was going to do something, but he naturally took a piece of thick linen and spread it on his right leg.

His slender jade-like hand grabbed a few thin sticks of firewood and pressed them against his leg. With a snap, the firewood broke.

He dropped the folded firewood into the stove and flicked it with the poker.

If he had not seen it with his own eyes, Su Mo would never believe that the dignified young master of the Wei family would actually start a fire and burn it… so smoothly.

Those who didn't know better would think that this guy didn't fight and had changed his profession to become a cook.

Su Xiaoxiao covered the pot and took off the apron she had made. She said to Wei Ting, “Dahu and the others seem to have woken up. I'll go over and take a look. There's porridge cooking in the pot.”

After she went out, Wei Ting really looked at the fire seriously.

Su Mo and Wei Ting did not interact much. Even if they did, they were indifferent and did not talk much.

Actually, according to his age, he was 22 this year, only a year older than Wei Ting.

“Um… let me try,” he said to Wei Ting.

Wei Ting generously moved the stool to the side and Su Mo sat down on a small stool.

Wei Ting handed him the tongs and firewood, as well as the thick linen on his leg.

He imitated Wei Ting and broke the firewood to put it into the stove. After putting it in, he used the tongs to stir it.

However, not long after, the porridge in the pot stopped moving.

Su Mo was puzzled. “What's going on? The fire is quite big…”

Wei Ting picked up the fire tongs indifferently and evenly pushed aside the firewood that was piled together. “A person has to be solid, and a fire has to be empty.”

Chapter 254

“You know this?”

Su Mo was too surprised.

Thinking of something, Su Mo asked in a complicated manner, “Don't tell me you relied on these… abilities… to please my uncle and cousin?”

“No,” Wei Ting said shamelessly. “I relied on my looks.”

Su Mo was speechless.

Su Mo came today for serious business, but he almost forgot what he was doing after Wei Ting's flirtatious words.

The three well-dressed little ones came to the backyard to wash up. When they smelled the fragrance, they came in for a walk.

Su Mo had been here a few times. The three little ones knew him and called him Uncle Su obediently.

Seeing that there was nothing delicious, they clattered out again.

“Are they really your sons?”

Su Mo asked Wei Ting.

“Yes,” Wei Ting agreed calmly.

“Where's the children's mother?” Su Mo asked.

He would not allow another woman to come out and fight with his cousin.

Regardless of whether he had feelings for Su Xiaoxiao or not, this was the dignity of the heirs of the Su family.

Wei Ting looked out. “There.”

Su Mo followed his gaze and saw Su Xiaoxiao, who had prepared a small basin for the three little ones.

The three little ones rubbed their heads against her body and were extremely clingy.

Su Mo took a deep breath. This guy refused to say.

Forget it, he would investigate it himself.

Wei Ting did not sleep the entire night. After burning the fire, he returned to the house to catch up on his sleep.

He had his own room next door to Su Xiaoxiao.

Su Mo could not understand. What exactly were these two…

On the other side, Qin Canglan woke up.

Because he had taken the calming soup, he slept very soundly that night. When he woke up, his head no longer hurt and he no longer felt nauseous.

The general's physique was really strong. Su Xiaoxiao put away the blood pressure gauge. “You can go back.”

“Ah…”

Qin Canglan could not bear to leave.

However, the matter had not been resolved. It was useless for him to stay here.

He had to investigate what had happened back then.

“Can I… go see your father and brother first?”

Qin Canglan had never had such a humble moment. As if he was worried about being rejected, he added, “I won't say anything!”

Su Xiaoxiao closed the small medicine box. “Okay.”

Qin Canglan went to Su Cheng's room.

The father and son were sleeping soundly. They usually looked fierce, but they were surprisingly benign in their sleep.

Qin Canglan looked at them with a burning gaze for a long time until his throat hurt.

Su Ergou opened his eyes in a daze and asked in a daze, “Sister, are you selling pancakes?”

Selling pancakes…

His biological grandson… actually lived a life selling pancakes in the countryside…

Su Xiaoxiao walked in. “We're not selling pancakes today. Go to sleep.”

“Oh, call me if you're selling them.” Su Ergou turned around and fell asleep again.

Qin Canglan had his back facing the door. He held his thighs with both hands to support his swaying body.

Su Xiaoxiao placed the folded clothes in the cabinet and looked at Qin Canglan's back. “Breakfast is ready.”

Qin Canglan raised his hand to wipe his red eyes and sniffed. He said in a normal tone, “Got it. I'll be right there.”

Su Xiaoxiao's culinary skills were extremely good. The buns she casually made smelled even better than the ones sold in the shops.

However, the more this was the case, the more upset Qin Canglan felt.

The children of the poor took charge early. If not for the fact that she was wandering among the commoners, why would she need to wash clothes and cook?

Qin Yanran didn't even know how to peel corn cobs, but this girl could already do so much rough work.

It took him a moment to find his voice. “You guys… lived the same way in the countryside.”

“No,” Su Xiaoxiao said.

Qin Canglan was about to heave a sigh of relief when he heard Su Xiaoxiao say, “The city is much more comfortable than the countryside. In the countryside, other than washing clothes and cooking, you have to go to the village entrance to get water, chop firewood on the mountain, and pick vegetables. When times are good, you feed pigs and raise chickens. When times are bad, you don't even have to feed pigs.”

Qin Canglan's heart ached.

Su Xiaoxiao continued, “Later on, our family began to make snacks.”

Qin Canglan asked in a daze, “Were… were you up so early too?”

Su Xiaoxiao said calmly, “It was much earlier than this. From midnight, I set up my stall at five o'clock. In the dead of winter, Ergou and I stood at the entrance of Jin Ji with a tray hanging around our necks… Jin Ji is the largest snack shop in our town. Ergou shouted, ‘Selling pancakes… Fragrant and sweet wife pancakes…'. I'm fat and can withstand the cold. Ergou is thin and wears thin clothes. The back of his hand and ears were covered in frostbite.”

“I asked Ergou if he likes to sell pancakes. Ergou said that he likes them because if he sells pancakes, he won't have to starve anymore.”

Qin Canglan finally couldn't control himself anymore. Hot tears fell into the bowl.

Su Mo arranged for two carriages.

Qin Canglan sat in the carriage in front, and he and Su Xiaoxiao sat in the second carriage.

“What you said just now… is all true, right?” Su Mo said.

Su Xiaoxiao looked at him in confusion and realized that he was referring to her “reflections” to Qin Canglan at the dining table.

She said, “Didn't you investigate?”

Su Mo said, “I've investigated.”

However, hearing someone else's report was completely different from hearing it from her.

Throughout the entire process, she did not complain or feel any grief or anger. However, the more she played it down, the more shocking it was.

How much hardship had she experienced to be so calm when she mentioned it?

Su Xiaoxiao told him the news that Wei Ting had found.

Su Mo frowned slightly. “You mean… it's very likely that Qin Che has already discovered Uncle and deliberately found a cover to lure Granduncle away. Then, he sent someone over… to investigate or…”

To silence him.

He did not say the last two words.

There was no need for him to say anything.

Su Xiaoxiao had also considered this possibility.

“Then why didn't he attack?” Su Mo was puzzled.

Su Xiaoxiao said calmly, “Isn't this Qin Canglan? Wasn't afraid that Qin Canglan would recognize him?”

Su Mo nodded. “Did you see what that person looked like?”

Su Xiaoxiao shook her head. “No. Wei Ting said that he had been wearing a bamboo hat to cover his face.”

Su Mo pondered. “I'm afraid this matter isn't that simple.”

At the Protector Duke's Estate, Qin Che sat in the study for the entire night.

At dawn, a servant finally came to report that the Old Master had returned.

Qin Che looked at the light coming in from the window and suddenly felt it was a little blinding.

“High Duke, High Duke?”

The servant called out twice.

Qin Che came back to his senses. “What did you say just now?”

The servant was shocked by Qin Che's sudden stunned gaze. He said nervously, “Old… Old Master is back. He's waiting for you in the study.”

“What should come is finally here…”

Qin Che laughed crazily, scaring the servant until his face turned pale.

What was wrong with the Duke today?

Qin Che dusted his wide sleeves and stood up. He tidied his clothes in front of the bronze mirror.

He smiled and asked the servant, “Do I look rude like this?”

The servant was confused. “No, it's not rude. It's quite good!”

Generally speaking, the High Duke would only pay so much attention to his appearance during court. The servant was nervous, but he did not dare to ask.

“Let's go.” Qin Che said with a smile.

He walked confidently to Qin Canglan's study.

The bump on Qin Canglan's forehead had yet to subside. It must have been knocked by Su Cheng.

Qin Che bowed respectfully. “Father.”

Qin Canglan said to the servants in the room, “All of you, leave!”

“Yes.”

Everyone obediently left. The last person did not forget to close the door for the two of them.

Qin Canglan was not a person who liked to beat around the bush. This was probably a common trait of many generals. They were too straightforward and disdained to play tricks.

Except for war.

Qin Canglan sat down on the main seat and looked coldly at Qin Che's face.

“Don't call me father. I already know.”

Boom!

A shocking explosion sounded in Qin Che's mind.

Chapter 255

The sky cleared after the rain, and the capital was enveloped in a golden dawn.

A luxurious carriage slowly drove into the palace city and stopped in front of Taihe Gate.

The guard looked at the noble man who alighted from the carriage and hurriedly went forward to bow. “Your Highness!”

Xiao Zhonghua raised his hand calmly, and the guard was flattered.

The princes had a noble status and usually ignored them. Only the Third Prince was so approachable.

Xiao Zhonghua smiled and asked, “I should be the first to pay my respects to Father and Mother, right?”

The guard hurriedly said, “Her Majesty has been unwell recently. His First and Second Highness have also entered the palace.”

In Qixiang Palace, Consort Xian had just finished washing up and was sitting in front of the dressing table choosing earrings when she heard the palace maid report that the Third Prince had arrived.

Consort Xian's eyes lit up. She casually took a pair of jade earrings and put them on. She went to the warm pavilion to see her son, whom she had not seen for months.

Consort Xian was so excited that she choked. She sat on the chaise longue and held her son's face with both hands. Her heart ached as she said, “You've lost weight… Was the journey very difficult?”

Xiao Zhonghua smiled. “It wasn't too hard. I made Mother worry.”

“Have you been to see the empress?” Consort Xian asked.

“I have.”

The empress was in the central palace. Even though Xiao Zhonghua was Consort Xian's biological son, he had no choice but to pay his respects to the empress first.

This was a courtesy.

“Is my third brother back?” Princess Hui An said with a delicate voice as she gently tugged at her wide-sleeved flowing immortal dress and walked briskly into the warm pavilion.

“Third Brother! It's really you!”

She ran over with a smile and sat between Concubine Xian and Xiao Zhonghua.

She had been pampered since she was young. The emperor doted on her, and so did Consort. As her brother, it went without saying that Xiao Zhonghua treasured her.

Consort Xian had not spent enough time with her son before her daughter pushed her away.

What could she say?

She had spoiled her.

“Hehe, Mother.” Princess Hui An did not forget to greet her mother.

Consort Xian rolled her eyes at her. “How old are you? You don't look like a princess at all.”

Princess Hui An held Xiao Zhonghua's arm and said coquettishly, “No matter how old I am, I'm still Mother's daughter. I'm Brother's sister, right, Third Brother?”

Xiao Zhonghua smiled dotingly. “Why are you up so early today? Did you come specially to wait for Third Brother?”

“Yes…” Princess Hui An's eyes flashed.

Consort Xian chuckled. “I think you want to sneak out of the palace to look for Wei Ting again, right?”

Princess Hui An said stubbornly, “Who said that? I'm here to wait for Third Brother!”

Consort Xian continued to undermine her daughter. “Your third brother didn't say that he would enter the palace today!”

Princess Hui An used all her wisdom. “We… we're siblings. Our hearts are connected!”

Xiao Zhonghua chuckled softly.

Princess Hui An said, “Third Brother, did Father give you an especially important mission after you went out for so long this time? It's fine if you don't say it. I can guess anyway!”

Xiao Zhonghua was amused. “What did you guess again?”

Princess Hui An said coquettishly, “I don't care. In any case, you must be Father's most valued prince! When you become the Crown Prince in the future, I'll be the Eldest Princess!”

Consort Xian glared at her daughter. “Stop talking nonsense. What if others hear it?”

Princess Hui An snorted. “Who will spread it? You? You? Or you?”

The little palace maids and eunuchs who were pointed at by her were so frightened that their faces turned pale.

“You.” Consort Xian tapped her forehead.

Xiao Zhonghua gently rubbed the top of her head. “Brother brought you a gift and got someone to send it to your bedroom.”

Princess Hui An hurriedly stood up. “Really? I want to take a look!”

The chattering sparrow finally left and the hall fell silent.

Consort Xian dismissed the palace servants and held her son's hand. She said dotingly, “Let Mother take a good look at you. I heard that you were very sick in Qingzhou before the new year.”

Xiao Zhonghua said, “I was indeed sick. Fortunately, I met a powerful physician.”

Consort Xian felt a lingering fear.

Xiao Zhonghua comforted her. “I'm fine. Mother, you don't have to worry.”

“How can I not be worried when you say so?” Consort Xian's heart ached. Suddenly, she noticed her son's slightly stiff left arm. “What happened to your arm?”

She reached out and accidentally touched the wound. Xiao Zhonghua gasped weakly.

Consort Xian's expression changed. “What's going on? Let Mother take a look!”

“It's a small injury.” Xiao Zhonghua held Consort Xian's hand and smiled. “It's really fine.”

Consort Xian asked angrily, “Who did it?”

Xiao Zhonghua smiled as if nothing had happened. “Mother, I'm really fine. I'll handle it. Don't worry.”

Chapter 256

Consort Xian knew her son's personality. If he really refused to tell her, she would never be able to get anything out of him.

Her son had been different from other princes since he was young. If anything happened, he would never come back to complain to her even if he was bullied.

Consort Xian couldn't do anything to her son and could only exert strength elsewhere. “How did Jing Yi protect you?”

Xiao Zhonghua smiled gently and said, “Jing Yi has already done his best. If he hadn't taken the stab for me, I might have died.”

Consort Xian exclaimed, “Then… is he alright?”

Xiao Zhonghua said, “It's nothing serious.”

Consort Xian's expression softened a little. She pulled her son's hand and said earnestly, “When you go out, I'm on tenterhooks every day because I'm afraid that something will happen to you… Tell Mother the truth. Why did you go to Qingzhou?”

Xiao Zhonghua lowered his head and smiled. “Mother, Father sent me.”

Consort Xian snorted. “You were the one who volunteered!”

Xiao Zhonghua sighed helplessly.

“My son… went to look for the Commander's Seal left behind by Wu Anjun.”

Consort Xian freed one hand and touched her temples. She said thoughtfully, “Did Lord Wu An leave behind a Commander's seal? Didn't he hand it to the Imperial Court this morning?”

Xiao Zhonghua said, “It's not the Imperial Court's Commander's Seal. It's an army that was secretly trained for King Nanyang back then.”

Consort Xian asked strangely, “Wu Anjun still has this trick up his sleeve? What does the Wei family want? Are they rebelling?”

The more she thought about it, the more uneasy she felt.

“No, you have to report it to your father quickly!”

Xiao Zhonghua dissuaded, “Mother, I didn't get the Commander's Seal and don't know where that army is. There's no evidence. If the Wei family bites me back, it will be disadvantageous to me.”

Consort Xian said, “You're your father's biological son. Your father will believe you.”

Xiao Zhonghua pondered for a moment and analyzed, “In order to resist Beiyan, the Wei family lost eight generals in battle. Their loyalty can be seen by the world. All the civil and military officials know, and the people of the world know. If Father is suspicious of the Wei family just because of his son's words, I'm afraid he will be criticized by the censor and the people of Great Zhou.”

Consort Xian sighed slightly. “I didn't think it through.”

Xiao Zhonghua smiled. “Mother is also doing this for the Great Zhou Empire.”

Consort Xian waved her hand. “Forget it, let's not talk about this. Since you're back, prepare for your marriage with Miss Qin. There's not much time left.”

It was already late March.

“You must firmly grasp the military power of the Protectorate .”

In the past, she did not know that Wu Anjun had a backup plan. Now that she knew, Consort Xian felt even more that she was going to join forces with the Duke Protector.

“The Protectorate and the Su family are in-laws. If we rope in the Protectorate, it's equivalent to roping in the Marquis of Zhenbei. Even if the Wei family really has ulterior motives, we won't be afraid in the future!”

Xiao Zhonghua said nothing.

Consort Xian said to the door, “Feng Sheng.”

A eunuch in his early thirties bowed and entered. “I'm here.”

Consort Xian instructed calmly, “Send the pair of gold jewelry in my storeroom to Miss Qin. Tell her that it's a gift prepared by the Third Prince for her.”

Feng Sheng agreed. “Yes.”

After leaving the palace, Xiao Zhonghua rode the carriage back to his residence.

When he passed by an embroidered building, he casually lifted the curtain and was surprised to see a familiar figure.

“It's her?”

“She came to the capital?”

Su Xiaoxiao took the clothes she had ordered for her family and paid. She carried the clothes into Su Mo's carriage.

Xiao Zhonghua's eyes narrowed. “The Marquis of Zhenbei?”

“Where are we going next?” Su Mo asked Su Xiaoxiao in the carriage.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Go see your grandfather. His dosage should be adjusted.”

In the study, Qin Canglan looked at Qin Che with burning eyes. This was the “son” he had raised for twenty years.

He had deceived the world and taken everything that belonged to Su Cheng. He lived a good life with a clear conscience and was even conferred the title of Protector Duke.

“Who are you? Why did you take Hua Yin's jade pendant and pretend to be my son back then?”

“Father, where did you hear the rumors that I was an imposter? How can I be an imposter? I'm Qin Che! Your biological son!”

Qin Canglan took off the jade pendant from his waist. “This jade pendant… was handed to me by you when you returned to the capital back then. You said that you lost the other piece and only kept this one by your side. No matter how difficult life was, you couldn't bear to sell it.”

Chapter 257

Qin Che said seriously, “Father, I'm telling the truth!”

Qin Canglan said angrily, “You're lying! This jade pendant was clearly sold 30 years ago! Tell me the truth! Who gave it to you!”

Qin Che looked wronged. “Father, what are you talking about? I don't understand!”

Qin Canglan's eyes were cold. “The Su family has already investigated clearly. You don't have to quibble forcefully. The Su family won't harm me, nor will they wrong Hua Yin's flesh and blood!”

Qin Che said bitterly, “I don't know what the Su family is up to… Or perhaps… the Su family has been deceived by someone…”

Qin Canglan said coldly, “I'm not here to listen to your explanation today. I'm just here to tell you that I know.”

His words left no room for negotiation and practically sentenced Qin Che to death on the spot.

Those who achieved great things would always have a decisiveness that ordinary people could not understand.

The day before, they were clearly a loving father and son. In the blink of an eye, he could completely cut off twenty years of nurturing.

Qin Che found it ironic.

Qin Canglan stared at him fixedly. “You were only 16 years old back then. It's not that I underestimate you, but you don't have the guts or ability to set up this trap alone. You also know some things about the Protectorate and understand Che'er's habits. There must be someone behind you. You'd better tell me honestly who that person is.”

Qin Che clenched his fists.

Qin Canglan continued, “You might not know, but Huayin and I had an intense argument over some trivial matters. In a fit of anger, Huayin threatened to take the child away. From then on, he took her surname and she even gave him a name.”

Qin Che lowered his eyes. “I only remember a portion of what happened before I was six years old.”

Qin Canglan ignored what he said. “I should have asked you back then. Do you still remember the name your mother gave you?”

Hearing this, Qin Che suddenly smiled.

“Father… you think I'm fake just because of a name? I remember so many things, but I forgot a name that wasn't useful at all!”

Qin Canglan said angrily, “Only the three of us know this name!”

Qin Che mocked, “So that person said this name? Who can guarantee that there are no ears that heard this? It might be spread by some servant!”

Qin Canglan frowned. “That person? From the moment I entered the house until now, I didn't mention that the real Qin Che had appeared.”

Qin Che was stunned!

Qin Canglan's eyes turned even colder. “You've seen him? Did you already know? You… you deliberately sent me away yesterday?”

Qin Che panicked. “Father…”

Qin Canglan stood up and walked towards him step by step. “What did you want to do?”

Qin Che retreated step by step. “Father, listen to me. I… Ah!”

Qin Canglan grabbed his neck.

At this moment, Qin Canglan was already a little strange.

Or rather, from the moment he found out the truth, he was on the verge of collapse.

Now, the string that kept his rationality snapped.

Qin Che felt the aura of death.

He could not believe that his father, who had been with him for 20 years, would really be ruthless to him.

The rumors were right. Qin Canglan was indeed the most cold-blooded and ruthless King Yanluo of Great Zhou.

“Father… you can't kill me…”

“I… I'm also your… biological son…”

The streets were a little congested today.

The carriage was blocked on the road from time to time.

Su Mo raised the curtain and said to Su Xiaoxiao, “Do you want to go to the teahouse?”

“No need,” Su Xiaoxiao said.

Su Mo lowered the curtain.

The carriage was quietly blocking the way. It was noisy all around, and the carriage was so quiet that only breathing could be heard.

Perhaps to break this strange silence, Su Mo said softly, “I told you before that your grandparents have an extremely good relationship.”

“What's wrong?” Su Xiaoxiao asked.

Su Mo hesitated and said, “Actually, there's something I haven't told you. I overheard it by accident, and I'm not sure if it's true or not.”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Tell me.”

“When Granduncle was young, he used to…”

At this point, Su Mo paused.

Su Xiaoxiao spoke up for him. “Have another woman?”

It was really embarrassing for a man like him to criticize a girl.

Su Mo braced himself and said, “She was my grandfather's distant cousin. Her family fell and came to the capital to seek refuge with the Qin family. At that time, the Old Madam, your grandfather's mother, kindly took her in.”

Su Xiaoxiao nodded. “Then they got together?”

Su Mo did not admit or deny it. “I don't know the details, but I heard that Aunt's cousin suddenly fell ill and was sent to the village by Old Madam to recuperate. She never returned to the capital.”

Chapter 258

Su Mo continued, “Granduncle is the only legitimate son in the family. Old Madam won't allow him to marry a distant cousin who doesn't match his family background.”

“So Old Madam broke them up?” Su Xiaoxiao touched her chin thoughtfully.

“Qin Che and Qin Canglan look a little alike. Could it be that… that cousin was secretly married to Qin Canglan back then? Is Qin Che her son?”

In the messy study, Qin Che lay on the ground in a sorry state.

Qin Canglan stood at the side as if he had been struck by lightning.

“No, impossible… You're not my son… I don't have a son like you!”

Qin Che wiped the blood from the corner of his mouth.

His father… was really ruthless…

If he was not Su Huayin's child, he would have no value in Qun Canglan's eyes…

“Father…” Qin Che smiled sarcastically. “Have you forgotten… how you and my mother dated back then?”

Qin Canglan gritted his teeth. “Nonsense! When did I and your mother… who is your mother?”

Qin Che laughed until tears fell. “Father, don't you even remember your cousin?”

“Ruan… Xianglian? You're Ruan Xianglian's child?” Qin Canglan found such a person from his long-forgotten memories.

Then he fell silent.

Qin Che took in his reaction and smiled coldly. “Father, you finally remember?”

“I… She… How could…” Qin Canglan frowned even more. “Impossible… This is impossible!”

Qin Che's cold smile deepened. “Father, have you forgotten about the night you slept with my mother?”

Qin Canglan shouted, “Shut up!”

Qin Che said mockingly, “Only Father can do it, but I'm not allowed to say it as a son? Father, why do you think my mother was sent to the village to recuperate back then? Mother was pregnant with Father's flesh and blood! Grandmother was afraid of ruining Father's reputation, so she sent my mother to the village and locked her up for an entire year! Later on, my mother escaped with me, who was still in infancy…”

“Father married the high and mighty daughter of the Marquis's Estate, but my mother and I hid everywhere to live. We were afraid that we would be captured by Grandmother and imprisoned for the rest of our lives!”

“Do you understand what kind of life we had during those years, Father?”

“You and Su Huayin are husband and wife. Have you considered how pitiful my mother was?”

This was the first time Qin Che had called his legitimate mother by her name, and it was not so difficult to call her that.

“Yes, I pretended to be Su Huayin's son and returned to the Qin family, but this was what the mother and son owed me! If it weren't for Su Huayin, you would have married my mother! I'm your eldest son! I'm the heir of the Duke's Estate!”

Qin Canglan frowned. “Is that what your mother told you? Where is she now? Find her. I want to confront her face to face and understand!”

Qin Che lowered his eyes and muttered, “My mother has already passed away… If you want to see my mother, why don't you go underground to look for her…”

“You…” Qin Canglan fell back in anger.

Qin Canglan did not expect such a variable to happen.

Qin Che looked up at his father again. “It was a coincidence to get that jade pendant. My mother spent all her assets and even sold the shop that had been open for a few years to buy it. My mother said that she had nothing left. I told my mother that I would earn it for her. Unfortunately, she passed away before she could enjoy life. Father, don't you think she was very pitiful?”

Qin Canglan was furious. “Shut up! I don't know what nonsense your mother said to you. In short, we're not what you think! Even without Huayin, I wouldn't have married her!”

Qin Che looked at him in disappointment, his eyes filled with endless grievance. “So Father, if I didn't use this method, would you acknowledge me? Do you think I'm willing to use someone else's identity? But if I didn't do this, I wouldn't even have the right to call you Father!”

As he spoke, he roared and pounded his chest. Tears streamed down his face.

“Is this fair to me? To me? I'm your son too…”

On the roof, Su Mo and Su Xiaoxiao's expressions were solemn.

After all this time, she did not expect such a turn of events.

Was Qin Che actually Qin Canglan's son?

Was he serious?

From their angle, they could not see Qin Canglan's expression, but Qin Che's was clear.

Chapter 259

Qin Che was very agitated.

Su Xiaoxiao's eyes flickered. “Would Qin Che kill Qin Canglan to silence him?”

The corners of Su Mo's mouth twitched. “Do you think anyone can kill Granduncle?”

Putting aside whether Qin Che had the intention to kill or not, even if he did, his granduncle had already pulled herself out of the huge shock from yesterday. If he wanted to gain an advantage over him, Qin Che would have to have ten heads.

Su Xiaoxiao: “Oh.”

Su Mo asked, “Are you concerned about Granduncle?”

Su Xiaoxiao replied, “I'm afraid that he won't have time to make a will.”

Su Mo was speechless.

After Qin Canglan left the study, Su Mo used his qinggong and brought Su Xiaoxiao out of the Duke's Estate.

Su Mo said, “Go see my grandfather. He might know better than us about what happened back then.”

The Old Marquis had recovered well. The poison had been completely removed, and his heart disease had been effectively controlled.

Her diet was relatively light.

The servants originally thought that it was harder to let the Old Marquis eat grass than ascend to the heavens. Unexpectedly, the Old Marquis ate with relish.

The servants knew that the Old Marquis listened to the little fat girl the most.

Su Mo told him everything he had heard in the Duke Protector's Estate.

The Old Marquis was also very surprised.

Su Mo asked, “Grandpa, did Granduncle really have a cousin called Ruan Xianglian?”

The Old Marquis recalled, “Yes, her surname is Ruan. I'm not sure if her name is Xianglian, so I didn't ask carefully. As for her relationship with Qin Canlan… I've been to the Qin family a few times and can tell that she does admire Qin Canglan very much. However, Qin Canglan doesn't have any feelings for her.”

Anyone who was not a fool could tell if a woman had deliberately approached a man and if a man liked a woman.

Madam Ruan did not get close brilliantly.

Qin Canglan did not fancy her.

Qin Canglan's mother also did not agree to her marriage to Qin Canglan.

“At Qin Canglan's birthday banquet, the brothers in the military camp went. A group of rough men drank wine like water and forced Qin Canglan to the ground. I also drank a lot. I was carried back.”

Chapter 260

Su Mo was not too surprised that she did not call him grandfather and called him by his name.

“Both,” he said. “Do you think what Qin Che said is true?”

Su Xiaoxiao finished eating a walnut and picked another. “Are you referring to the fact that Qin Che is Qin Canglan's biological son? I don't know, but they do look alike.”

This was also what Su Mo did not refute on the spot.

He wanted to say that Qin Che was lying, but if Qin Che was not his grandfather's biological son, why did they look so similar?

If not for that, Qin Che would not have succeeded in acknowledging his family back then.

Even after ten or twenty years, a person's appearance could change, but there would be some trace of the past.

Su Mo muttered, “Could it be that Ruan Xianglian secretly planned the pursuit of Grandaunt and Uncle back then?”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Whether she did it or not, Qin Che is the one with vested interests.”

Qin Che stole his father's identity.

It would have been fine if Qin Che didn't know. However, he had snatched everything that originally belonged to Father Su. He even shamelessly said that it was just to acknowledge his father.

Who was he lying to?

Su MO wanted to say, “Don't be anxious.” He glanced at this girl and realized that she was not anxious at all.

That was true. This girl had never thought of climbing up to an aristocratic family. Her background seemed to have never been important to her.

Moreover, putting aside these things, Qin Che was actually the one who should be anxious.

Now that the legitimate direct descendant was back, Qin Che felt like he was sitting on pins and needles.

Su Xiaoxiao returned to Pear Blossom Lane.

“Mother.”

“Mother.”

Xiaohu and Erhu rushed out.

Dahu was not around.

He went to visit again.

Recently, this guy had been leaving his brother alone.

Su Xiaoxiao held the two little fellows' hands. “What are you playing? Are you sweating?”

Erhu said, “A wooden horse!”

Father Su was making wooden horses for the three little ones. The two of them rode opposite each other, and there were almost two big pits on the ground.

“Where's Dahu?” Su Xiaoxiao asked. Erhu said, “Uncle Ling's house.”

Xiaohu nodded.

The man who could play the zither… had the surname Ling?

In the room, a man sat on the ground.

Dahu tilted his head and looked at him, then at the snacks on the table. “You didn't eat?”

The man paused and said, “I don't like to eat.”

How could anyone not like to eat?

Dahu did not understand.

He scratched his head and took a cute step forward. “My mother's snacks are especially delicious. You'll know after tasting them.”

The man's bony fingertips gently fiddled with the strings.

Dahu said seriously, “I'm a puppy if I lie to you.” The man refused, clearly not wanting to eat.

Dahu patted his stomach. “You have to eat more to be fair and fat like me.” The man looked at the little fellow's innocent face and his expression softened.

“I'll just take a bite.”

“Yes!”

Dahu nodded.

The man hesitantly opened the paper bag and looked at a piece of yellow and orange pastry. He closed his eyes and took a bite, swallowing it with difficulty.

He was already prepared to vomit.

Unexpectedly, there was no discomfort.

He looked at the snack in his hand in shock and took a second bite.

On the other side, Qin Che returned to his courtyard in a daze.

Along the way, the servants saw him like this and did not understand what had happened.

“He seems to have come out from Old Master's courtyard.'

In the garden, two servants gossiped softly.

“Did he quarrel with Old Master?” “Why did he argue like this? Didn't Old Master dote on the Duke very much?”

“What are you talking about?”

Qin Yanran appeared behind the two of them with her maidservant.

The two of them's hearts skipped a beat. They hurriedly turned around and bowed. “Miss!”

Qin Yanran glanced coldly at the two trembling people. “The Duke's Estate is a place to do things, not a place to gossip.”

One of the servants said, “Yes, yes! We understand! We won't dare to do it again!”

Qin Yanran frowned and did not argue with the two servants. She went to Qin Che's courtyard.

Qin Che sat alone in the room in a daze, not allowing the servant to enter the room to serve him.

The servant seemed to have seen his savior and heaved a sigh of relief. “Miss, you're finally here. If you hadn't come, I would have gone to call you.'

Qin Yanran said, “What happened to my father?”

The servant said, “I'm not sure either. Just now, Old Master called the Duke over. When he came back… the Duke was out of sorts.” Qin Yanran's expression was solemn. “You can leave.”

“Yes.” The servant retreated.

Qin Yanran entered the house.

She looked at Qin Che, who was sitting on the chair in a daze, and asked in confusion, “Father, what's wrong?”

Qin Che said tiredly, “Yanran, you're here.”

Qin Yanran asked the maidservant to guard the door while she came to Qin Che and carefully looked at his neck and face. “Father, are you injured?”

Qin Che didn't answer. Instead, he looked at the brocade box in her hand. “What's that in your hand?”

Qin Yanran said, “His Highness returned to the capital and brought me a gift.”

“His Highness… Yes… His Highness…” Qin Che finished in a daze, his eyes shining as he smiled.

He held his daughter's shoulders with both hands. “That master read your fortune. You were born with the fate of a phoenix. In the future, you will be a mother to the world… Haha… Hahaha…”

Qin Yanran's heart went numb from her father's laughter. “Father… what's wrong with you? Don't scare me…”

Qin Che pulled himself together again. “Father is fine… Father won't admit defeat… It wasn't easy for Father to get to where he is today… Father will never give up everything he has!”

“I'm the eldest son… I'll be the eldest… by the first wife… I'm qualified to inherit… The Duke's Estate is mine…”

Qin Yanran felt her blood run cold. “Father… I don't understand…”

Qin Yanran felt her blood run cold. “Father… I don't understand..

Qin Che smiled and touched his daughter's sideburns. “It's okay. You don't have to understand. You just have to remember that you're the future Third Prince's wife. The Third Prince will inherit the throne. You'll be the empress. Father will definitely remove all obstacles for you and let you successfully become the daughter of the heavens!”

She understood every word of her father's words, but when they were combined, Qin Yanran was confused.

What eldest son? His grandfather only had her father as the only son.

Her father should indeed inherit the Duke's Estate, but from his father's tone, it seemed that his grandfather had another son who wanted to fight with his father for the family assets…

Impossible.

His grandfather only had a child with his grandmother, Su Huayin.

“Miss, the hair ornament Third Prince gave you is really beautiful!” The little maidservant held the brocade box and said with a smile.

Qin Yanran looked up and realized that she had already walked back to her courtyard.

She was not in the mood to admire the hairpin.

For some reason, she felt uneasy..

Chapter 261

The little maidservant advised, “Miss, eat some honeydew. Consort Xian sent it to our residence as soon as Yunzhou sent it over. Consort Xian is really satisfied with Miss as her daughter-in-law!”

Consort Xian was satisfied with Qin Yanran.

Not only was Qin Yanran devastatingly beautiful, but she was also talented. Coupled with the fact that she was the beloved daughter of the Protectorate, she had always been called the Number One Daughter of the Capital.

How could Consort Xian not be satisfied with this daughter-in-law?

Other than Qin Yanran herself, the huge power behind her was what Consort Xian cared about the most.

The military power of the Qin and Su families. After obtaining them, was she still worried that her son could not become the crown prince?

Qin Yanran came to the zither table and sat down.

“I'll play the zither for a while. You guys can leave.”

When she was upset, she would relieve her anxiety by playing the zither.

She played a song she had recently learned, “Longing.”

She had a good sense of music and was talented. Master Zhang also praised her for playing well and being the best among all the disciples.

However, the sound of the zither she had heard in Pear Blossom Lane subconsciously appeared in her mind.

That Eldest Senior Brother had also played “Longing”.

Compared to his zither music, hers seemed to be forever lacking something.

If she was the best, what would people say about Eldest Senior Brother?

Qin Yanran played for a while and really couldn't calm down. She asked the maidservant to put away the zither and took a poetry book to lie on the chaise longue to read.

As she read, she fell asleep.

Perhaps her father's reaction today had frightened her, but she actually had a nightmare.

She dreamed that her father's words were true. A man really came from somewhere and said that he was her grandfather's son. He asked her father to return everything in the Duke's Estate to him.

Then, a woman came and snatched her identity as the young mistress and her marriage with the Third Prince…

That woman said that she was the real daughter of the heavens and the empress of the world.

Qin Yanran woke up in shock.

Su Xiaoxiao brought a box of new snacks to the house in the east to pick up

Dahu.

The person who opened the door for her was a servant.

The servant looked at her in a daze and drooled when he smelled the fragrance of the oil in the box. “You are…

Su Xiaoxiao said politely, “I'm Dahu's mother.”

The servant quickly gestured. “It's Dahu's mother. Please come in.” Su Xiaoxiao crossed the threshold.

The servant led her into a clean and simple room. There were no other furnishings in the room, only a zither, and two cushions.

The servant said to Su Xiaoxiao, “Madam, sit for a while. My young master brought Dahu to the back to pick fruits.”

Afraid that Su Xiaoxiao would be worried that her young master would run around with the children, the servant hurriedly added, “It's our own orchard.

It's not far.'

Su Xiaoxiao nodded. “It's fine. Go ahead. I'll wait on my own.”

Master Zhang returned from his trip and heard a melodious zither sound as soon as he entered the courtyard.

It was Zheng.

He… played the zither?

He even composed a new song.

This tune was completely different from the ones he had heard before. It had an extremely strong rhythm and tempo, with a hint of killing intent that looked down on the world. It was like immortal music descending and shaking one's heart.

He seemed to see a person and a sword under the city tower, fearless of thousands of troops!

It was too shocking…

Master Zhang had goosebumps when he heard that…

Su Xiaoxiao entered the house.

Father Su sat on the small stool and looked up at her. “Did you come back alone? Where's Dahu?”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Oh, he went to the orchard to pick fruits with the owner of that house. There's still meat stewing in the pot, so I came back first.”

Father Su knew about that orchard and had passed by it a few times. The fruits inside were big and beautiful.

How fragrant.

He was very hungry.

Thinking of something, Su Cheng suddenly said, “Daughter, are you going on house calls recently?”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Yes, not much. What's wrong, Dad?”

Su Cheng said, “Well, didn't you make snacks these two days? I saw that I couldn't finish them anyway, so I brought them to the market with your brother to sell them. Then, cough, I accepted a small business.”

“Oh.” Su Xiaoxiao was a little surprised. No wonder Su Ergou was half-awake and asked if she wanted to sell pancakes. So he had already sold them.

“What snack do you want?” she asked.

Father Su said, “Just… wife cakes. Any filling is fine.”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “How many? Where are they sent?”

“200.” Su Cheng coughed lightly. “Spring Breeze Restaurant.”

Spring Breeze Restaurant was the largest brothel east of Scholar Street.

The corners of Su Xiaoxiao's mouth twitched. She muttered, “Dad, have the girls in the brothel taken a fancy to you again?”

After my father sold pancakes, everyone was waiting to be her stepmother…

Su Xiaoxiao smiled and asked, “How much?”

Su Cheng extended two fingers.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Two taels?”

In town, in order to fight for Su Cheng's pancakes, the girls had raised the price to 100 copper coins each.

Su Cheng shook his head.

It couldn't be 200 copper coins. The capital didn't have such prices.

Su Xiaoxiao guessed. “Twenty taels?”

Su Cheng said, “200 taels.”

Su Xiaoxiao was speechless.

Zhong Shan also brought an order today.

He tasted the snacks Su Xiaoxiao gave him and gave some to his former companions.

Everyone liked to eat them and asked where Zhong Shan had bought them.

Zhong Shan said, “It's fine if you don't have time to do it.”

“There's time,” Su Xiaoxiao said. “It can be done tomorrow morning.”

Soon, Dahu returned.

It was the servant from that family who sent him back.

When the servant saw Su Xiaoxiao, he smiled brightly. “Madam, my young master likes your snacks very much. Can I trouble you to make another box tomorrow?”

As he spoke, he took out a money bag and handed it to Su Xiaoxiao.

Su Xiaoxiao asked, “What's wrong today? Are all the orders here?” Was he not opening for three years and eating for three years?

After Dahu left, Ling Yun sat alone in the room to tune the zither.

Strange, the zither that had been useless for a few years was actually accurate in pitch.

Master Zhang walked over with a bowl of hot millet porridge.

“At least take a few bites,” Zhang Qinshi said.

“I ate,” Ling Yun said.

Master Zhang smiled. “Don't lie to me.”

“Really.” Ling Yun opened the snack box on the table. “I'm done.”

Master Zhang smiled. “Deng An ate it, right?” Deng An was the servant who served him.

“I ate it,” Ling Yun said.

Master Zhang said, “You're doing this again. In order not to eat, you deliberately tricked me that you ate it.”

Ling Yun thought for a moment. “I'm a puppy if I lie to you.”

Master Zhang was speechless.

Coaxing him to eat was harder than ascending to the heavens. Master Zhang was used to it. He changed the topic and said, “The new song you composed today is not bad.”

Ling Yun looked at him strangely. “You composed a new song?”

Master Zhang said, “It's you who composed a new song.”

Ling Yun asked, “Did I?”

Master Zhang said, “Yes, it's the song you played with the zither.”

Ling Yun stroked the zither in front of him and said, “I didn't play it.”

Master Zhang was stunned..

Chapter 262

At night, Wei Ting returned travel-worn.

Su Xiaoxiao never asked what he was doing outside.

Today was different. He emitted a strong smell of blood.

“Are you injured?” Su Xiaoxiao asked.

“No, it's not my blood,” Wei Ting said.

He must have killed someone then.

Su Xiaoxiao continued to pick out the light and do needlework. The three little fellows were sleeping soundly on the bed.

Wei Ting seemed to have returned to a time many years ago.

His father had returned from the military camp, and his mother was mending their clothes in the room…

But now, his father and brother had died in battle, and his mother had moved into the temple hall.

“It's altered. Try it.”

Su Xiaoxiao bit off the thread, put the embroidery needle away and stood up with the clothes.

Wei Ting paused. “For… me?”

“Bought clothes for the whole family. Your cuffs are a little short. I let down the hem.” Seeing that he wasn't moving, Su Xiaoxiao came to him. “Lower your head.”

Wei Ting leaned forward slightly.

Su Xiaoxiao covered him with the clothes and he cooperatively stuck his arm in. Su Xiaoxiao pulled his sleeve and smiled. “It's just right.”

Wei Ting was a little stunned.

After his father and brother passed away, his mother never took a needle and thread again, nor did she make clothes for others.

“Ugly,” he said, looking at the crooked stitching on his cuff.

Su Xiaoxiao exploded. “I altered your clothes for you, and you still despise them? If you have the ability, don't wear it! Take it off!”

Wei Ting did not take it off for her.

She jumped up and took it off!

Wei Ting looked at her jumping up and down and couldn't help but laugh softly.

“You're still laughing? I caught you!”

Su Xiaoxiao grabbed his lapel and pulled hard. Unexpectedly, she didn't pull the clothes off him. Instead, she pulled him over with the clothes.

“Hey…”

She let out a low cry.

Wei Ting bumped into her and knocked her onto the bed behind him.

Wei Ting hugged her chubby waist with one hand and supported the bed with the other, pressing himself against her.

This posture was too ambiguous. Su Xiaoxiao couldn't help but think of that time in the alley.

The difference was that when she was presently pinned under him and they were even closer.

Her small heart pounded.

His handsome face was inches away, and his warm breath landed gently on her cheek with the gentleness of the night. Could he be hiding from someone this time?

Su Xiaoxiao blinked at him.

A man and a woman in the same room, together with three sleeping children…

The atmosphere was a little dizzying.

“Why… are you pressing down on me?”

“You're arrogant.” Wei Ting had a cold expression.

Su Xiaoxiao's almond-shaped eyes widened. “Isn't it because you refused to take off your clothes?”

Wei Ting narrowed his eyes dangerously. “So that's what you've been planning tonight. ”

Su Xiaoxiao said solemnly, “Who has designs on you? If you say again, I'll implement it! I won't take the blame for nothing!”

Wei Ting said, “You have designs on me.”

Su Xiaoxiao was speechless.

Su Xiaoxiao turned her face away. “I'll count to three. If you don't get up, I'll… I'll get serious.”

Su Xiaoxiao looked at the wall and counted fiercely. “One!”

“Two!”

Before she could finish, Wei Ting suddenly pressed down, tilted his head slightly, and covered her soft lips.

“Mother, what are you doing?”

Xiaohu lay on the bed and raised his head in a daze.

The two of them sat up with flushed faces.

Su Xiaoxiao asked seriously, “Do you want to pee?”

Xiaohu was stunned for a moment before nodding.

“I'll take him,” Wei Ting said.

Wei Ting carried the little fellow to the backyard.

Su Xiaoxiao rubbed her burning cheeks.

Was Wei Ting going to kiss her just now?

“Ahem!”

Calm down.

There was nothing to get excited about. He was just a man.

She was someone who had seen the world!

Three seconds later.

Su Xiaoxiao wrapped herself in the blanket and rolled over the bed. Over and over and over…

The next day, Su Xiaoxiao woke Su Ergou up and made 210 wife cakes. There were green bean filling, red bean filling, chestnut filling, and dried plum vegetable filling.

200 were goods for Spring Breeze Pavilion.

She made another 50 Ergou pancakes with egg yolk meat floss filling and 50 chestnut cakes.

Then, she picked two of each snack and put them into the box.

This was what Young Master Ling had reserved.

Zhong Shan came to get snacks.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Let Ergou send it for you.”

Zhong Shan gestured. “There's no need to trouble Young Master Su.”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “It's no trouble. Anyway, Ergou is going to Spring Breeze Restaurant to deliver goods.”

Su Ergou patted his chest. “That's right, that's right! Anyway, I'm delivering goods.. It doesn't make a difference if I make two deliveries!”

Chapter 263

Zhong Shan wanted to say something but hesitated.

In the end, he agreed.

He gestured in sign language. “Thank you.”

Su Ergou brought snacks and got into Zhong Shan's carriage.

Not long after, Su Mo arrived.

Su Xiaoxiao left with him.

“I saw Ergou just now,” Su Mo said to Su Xiaoxiao in the carriage.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Oh, he went to deliver.”

Su Mo asked strangely, “What gift?”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Snacks.”

Su Mo opened his mouth. “You… are still in the snack business?”

Su Xiaoxiao said seriously, “Yes, why not?”

Su Mo asked, “Is there not enough money to spend?”

Su Xiaoxiao said calmly, “It has nothing to do with money. Humans can't stay idle.”

Su MO sized her up. “You… shouldn't be free, right? If you're referring to Ergou..

have you considered… sending him to school? The Su family has a family school. If Ergou doesn't want to enter the Su family's family school, it's fine. I can hire a teacher for him or send him to the academy.” Su Xiaoxiao felt like she had been hit in the head.

She had forgotten that her brother could go to school!

In the countryside, she did not consider letting Ergou go to school. It was because Ergou was old and his foundation was poor. There was no suitable academy to go to.

Wei Ting was already qualified to teach him.

Ergou had learned from Wei Ting for so long and could recognize a few words. It was indeed time to send him to study.

Su MO said, “If you don't object, leave this to me.”

Su MO could already tell that although Su Cheng was the father, the real decision-maker in the family was this little fat girl.

Su Xiaoxiao agreed. “Okay.”

After settling a big matter, Su Xiaoxiao was in a good mood.

The two of them were here to visit Qin Canglan openly.

The two families were in-laws. Su MO had come to the residence countless times, and the guards at the door never stopped his carriage.

The carriage drove straight in and stopped near the gate.

The two of them alighted from the carriage and walked towards Qin Canglan's courtyard.

The servants in the residence knew Su MO and wondered why he had a little fat girl beside him. Although the servants were curious, they did not dare to ask.

On the other side, Qin Che did not sleep the entire night.

At dawn, he went to Qin Canglan's courtyard with a haggard expression.

Qin Canglan had already woken up and was being served by a servant to put on the court clothes.

Elders who had served two dynasties like him were old. When they did not go to war, they only held idle positions in the Imperial Court and did not need to go to court usually.

Qin Che entered the house and his expression changed slightly when he saw the court clothes.

He cupped his hands and bowed. “Father.”

The servant fastened Qin Canglan's belt and handed the black veil hat to him.

Qin Canglan held his black veil hat and waved at the servant.

The servant understood and left respectfully.

“Why are you here?” Qin Canglan asked indifferently. Qin Che said apologetically, “I'm here to apologize.”

Qin Canglan snorted coldly.

Qin Che lifted his hem and knelt down in front of Qin Canglan. “Father, I was indeed forced back then. It doesn't matter if you think I'm twisting words or talking nonsense, but what I'm about to say next is definitely not a lie!”

“The deceased is the biggest. I shouldn't criticize Grandmother, but it was indeed Grandmother who sent my mother to the manor back then. My mother thought that after giving birth to me, Grandmother would bring her back on my account. Who would have thought that Grandmother wouldn't even want me, her biological grandson?”

“The servants are used to worshiping the high and trampling on the low. Father can't imagine what kind of life we have. After escaping from the village, my mother brought me around, and was hungry and cold. My brother was already six years old when he disappeared. I wasn't even three years old… I wasn't raised well in my mother's womb. After I was born, I was weak and sickly. I can't remember how many times I almost died of illness…”

Qin Canglan's eyes were cold, and he was not moved by his words.

Qin Che said bitterly, “I'm not saying this to ask for Father's forgiveness…”

Qin Canglan said coldly, “Then why are you doing this? No matter how you and your mother have suffered, it has nothing to do with Hua Yin and Cheng'er. Were you willing to kill Hua Yin and Cheng'er just to return to the Qin family?!”

“Father!” Qin Che's eyes were filled with shock. “You think we were the ones who caused the accident between my legitimate mother and brother back then?”

“Isn't that so?” Qin Canglan asked.

Qin Che's eyes were filled with hurt. “Father, I'm only a year older than my brother. He was six years old when he was in trouble, and I was seven. At that time, we had only escaped from the village for less than two years.. We couldn't even take care of ourselves, so how could we have the ability to reach out to Qingzhou, which was thousands of miles away?”

Chapter 264

Qin Canglan mocked, “You still know that it's Qingzhou!”

Qin Che's eyes were filled with tears. “Father, it really wasn't us! I admit that I had difficulties when I pretended to be my younger brother. Mother's greatest obsession in life was to let me return to Father's side. Before Mother died, she held my hand and said that she couldn't accompany me anymore. She asked me to bring the jade pendant to Father… Even if I don't have to be her son, she doesn't want me to be alone for the rest of my life…”

“Yes, I was selfish… I lied… I pretended to be my brother… but I swear to God! I never thought of harming anyone! I thought my brother had passed away! I also saw someone about my age in the capital a few days ago… He looked very much like my father… I… I boldly guessed that perhaps my brother was still alive…”

“Father! Trust me! I've never framed my brother…”

Clang.

Something heavy hit the door outside.

A trace of vigilance quickly flashed across Qin Canglan's eyes. “Who is it!”

Creak…

The door opened.

Su MO and Su Xiaoxiao appeared at the door.

Su MO cupped his hands and bowed. “Granduncle.”

Qin Canglan's gaze landed on the two children. When he saw Su Xiaoxiao, his eyes were less cold.

Qin Che was extremely surprised.

Su Mo… that girl…

Why were these two here?

“Can we come in?” Su Xiaoxiao tilted her head and asked.

Qin Canglan nodded deeply.

As Su Xiaoxiao walked, she looked at Qin Che's back and said, “Eh? Who is he?”

Qin Che didn't want to embarrass himself in front of the two juniors. He held the armrest of the chair and stood up.

Unexpectedly, before he could steady himself, Su Xiaoxiao screamed, scaring him so much that he staggered and almost knelt on the ground again!

“Is… is… is it you?”

Su Xiaoxiao covered her mouth with one hand and pointed at Qin Che with the other, her eyes filled with fear.

Qin Che was confused.

Qin Canglan placed his hands behind his back and frowned. “Daya, what's wrong?”

Su Xiaoxiao didn't answer Qin Canglan immediately.

She looked straight at Qin Che. Her chubby body began to tremble slightly, and her eyes became more and more frightened.

She retreated step by step, her shoulder knocking down the back of Qin Canglan's hand.

She suddenly turned around and threw herself into Qin Canglan's arms with a frightened expression, sobbing.

“Grandpa! I'm afraid…”

She sobbed softly and did not forget to take her handkerchief.

She did not pull it out after a long time.

Er… she had forgotten to bring it.

She grabbed Qin Canglan's sleeve and wiped her nonexistent tears.

Su MO couldn't bear to watch.

Qin Canglan was immersed in the huge surprise of his granddaughter calling him grandfather. His entire body was light.

Until Su Xiaoxiao howled.

Qin Canglan shuddered and came back to his senses. He hurriedly patted the little fat granddaughter in his arms and asked, “Grandpa is here. Don't be afraid… Tell Grandpa, what happened?”

Su Xiaoxiao sobbed. “I don't dare to say…”

Qin Canglan said seriously, “Tell me, I'll stand up for you!”

Su Xiaoxiao stretched out her trembling finger and pointed at Qin Che in fear.

“Him!”

Qin Che was stunned.

Qin Canglan's expression darkened. “Did he bully you?”

“Yes!” Su Xiaoxiao sobbed. “He got someone to bully my father… blocked my father in the alley… and smashed our burden… When I went to look for Dad… Dad was covered in blood… boo hoo….

Qin Canglan held his breath. “When did this happen?”

Su Xiaoxiao sobbed. “It… it was the day you came to deliver the feed…'

Qin Canglan sent feed to the foal and indeed did not see Su Cheng. He was quite regretful at that time, but it was not convenient for him to stay in someone else's house, so he left first.

Speaking of blocking the alley, Qin Che had an impression.

Su Cheng had indeed been blocked by a few servants of the Protector Duke's Estate and had indeed come out covered in blood. However, the person who was beaten up was not Su Cheng, but those useless servants, okay?

The servants did not even touch a single strand of his hair. Instead, they were beaten up by Su Cheng until they looked for their teeth on the ground, and their silver was plundered!

Qin Che clenched his fists and suddenly took a step forward. He pointed at Su

Xiaoxiao's nose. “You're slandering me! That day, it was clearly you…” Su Xiaoxiao cried at the top of her lungs. “Waah! Grandpa… he was fierce to me…'

Qin Che gritted his teeth. “Shut up!”

Qin Canglan glared at him coldly. “Shut up!”

Su Xiaoxiao shrank into Qin Canglan's arms and continued to complain. “That was how he was fierce to my father that day… He asked someone to beat my father to death… He said… that it was his mistake that his son didn't beat Ergou and me to death in Qingzhou…

Qin Canglan's eyes were filled with killing intent. “What? You were bullied in Qingzhou?”

“I just found out… that Qin Yun is his son…”

Su Xiaoxiao learned it on the spot. If he could say that he just found out about Su Cheng's existence she could claim that she just found out about Qin Yun.

Su Xiaoxiao continued to cry. The little fatty had enough in her diaphragm.

“Ergou was pressed to the ground by his son and whipped hard… Young Marquis Jing saw it… At that time, Ergou and I didn't know our background. We just didn't understand why Ergou was targeted… We didn't offend them…” “There's actually such a thing?” Qin Canglan's expression was cold. He looked at Su Mo. “Do you know all this?”

Su MO thought to himself, “I know. Qin Yun was beaten to a pulp by Su Ergou.”

Su MO said in shame, “It was the Su family who returned to the village to pay respects to their ancestors and invited my cousin and Ergou to make snacks. At that time, they had yet to be acknowledged and did not know their identities. I could not protect them well. Granduncle, I'm sorry.”

Su MO did not lie, but he did not tell the entire truth.

Qin Canglan looked at Qin Che angrily. “You still say that you didn't harm

Cheng'er. I only saw him a few days ago… You even extended your reached into

Qingzhou!”

Qin Che was stunned.

Was she so good at distorting the truth? Was she so good at making things up?

“Father, I'm innocent! I really didn't! Yun'er and that child only had an ordinary misunderstanding… Yun'er doesn't know who he is…”

Su Xiaoxiao choked. “Then why did he see me in the Marquis of Zhenbei's Estate… and chase after me… I've never provoked him… Boo hoo… Boo hoo…” “There's actually such a thing?” Qin Canglan looked at Su MO again.

Su MO took a deep breath and said slowly, “Cousin went to treat Grandpa.

Yun'er… indeed shouted at Cousin and even asked Grandpa to teach her a lesson.”

However, in the end, Qin Yun was pressed to the ground by his cousin.

Su Xiaoxiao covered her chest and cried. “I'm so aggrieved! I'm so afraid! I'm so sad!”

Su MO, who had goosebumps, was speechless..

Chapter 265

Qin Che almost spat out a mouthful of blood.

Why was she aggrieved?

What was she afraid of?

Why was she sad?

When did the siblings not press Qin Yun to the ground?

Did they suffer a loss?

Also, where did she learn to make things up at such a young age?

Qin Che used all his wisdom but could not find a word to describe this little fat girl in front of him.

In short… in short, she was shameless!

He was clearly about to stabilize his father, but this little fatty jumped out and interfered, causing all his previous efforts to be in vain!

How despicable!

Qin Che was so angry that he felt terrible.

As he clenched his fists, the veins on his forehead were throbbing.

Su Xiaoxiao pointed at him and said aggrievedly, “Boo hoo… Grandpa, look… He seems to want to eat me… I won't dare to come again…”

Qin Canglan said seriously, “Nonsense. This is your house. You're the eldest daughter of the Duke's Estate. No one can bully you!”

Qin Che was stunned on the spot.

If this little fat girl was the eldest daughter of the Duke's Estate, what was

Yanran?

Su Xiaoxiao tilted her head and hugged Qin Canglan's arm, looking like a little…

fat bird. “I'm relieved to hear that, Grandpa.”

Qin Canglan patted her round shoulder. “Don't worry. I didn't take good care of you in the past, and I won't make the same mistake in the future. The Protector Duke's Estate is your home. You're the real master of the mansion. I won't let you suffer anymore.”

Qin Che's heart was pierced by Qin Canglan's merciless words.

Compared to physical punishment, Qin Che was really hurt by Qin Canglan's coldness and distrust.

Qin Che thought that the two of them has spend time together for 20 years and had more or less developed some feelings for each other. Even if it was exposed one day, he would still have a place in his heart.

However, at this moment, Qin Che realized that Qin Canglan had never doted on him.

No matter how hard he worked, he could not compare to Su Huayin's son.

Whether the other party was a fool or a madman, he did not care even if they attacked him.

As for himself, he was just short of taking out his heart.

Yet the other party was not even willing to take a look!

How ironic!

Su Xiaoxiao was possessed by Xiaohu in a second. She shook her head and said seriously, “I don't want to see him!”

Qin Canglan scolded Qin Che, “Get back to your courtyard! Without my instructions, you're not allowed to take half a step out of the courtyard!” Qin Che looked at Su Xiaoxiao resentfully and left unwillingly.

As soon as he left, Su Xiaoxiao's expression immediately changed. “Well, I'm leaving too. I still have something to do at home.”

Qin Canglan was dumbfounded.

Su MO cupped his hands at Qin Canglan. “I'll take my leave.”

The two of them left the house one after another. Qin Canglan smiled helplessly. “This girl.'

In the small garden, Su MO said to Su Xiaoxiao, “The door is over there.”

“I know.” Su Xiaoxiao continued walking in the opposite direction.

Su MO asked, “Where do you want to go?”

Su Xiaoxiao wrapped a strand of white hair in a handkerchief and said, “Qin Che's courtyard! ”

Su MO looked suspiciously at the white hair in her hand. “This is…”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Qin Canglan's hair.”

Alright, she wasn't calling him grandfather anymore.

She was really quick to dispose of what she used.

Su MO shook his head and said, “Why do you want Granduncle's hair?”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “You will know when the time comes!”

As they spoke, the two of them followed Qin Che to his courtyard.

Qin Che had just sat down when two figures silently appeared at the door.

His eyes turned cold. “What are you doing here?”

Before his identity was exposed, Qin Che and Su MO had a good relationship, but who knew that the Su family would stab him in the back?

At this moment, Qin Che found Su MO an eyesore.

Su MO was cold and his respect and filial piety to Qin Che were all because of his status. Therefore, he did not care how Qin Che looked at him.

Su Xiaoxiao smiled. “I'm here to gloat and add insult to injury.”

Qin Che gritted his teeth. “Don't be happy too early! Paper can't hide fire. One day, you'll reveal your true colors!”

Su Xiaoxiao raised her eyebrows. “Oh, you're referring to how Il wronged you today. Sigh, do you think the Old Duke couldn't tell that I was acting? Didn't he still chase you out?”

Qin Che's eyes trembled.

Su Xiaoxiao said arrogantly, “He's just biased toward me and can't bear to expose me. What can you do to me?”

Qin Che was trembling with anger!

Killing someone was nothing, but this girl… insisted on killing his heart!

Chapter 266

If Qin Che was unhappy, Su Xiaoxiao was happy.

Su Xiaoxiao walked up to Qin Che and raised her chubby hand to pat his shoulder. “The stolen wealth won't last long. Be prepared. The day of repayment has begun.”

Qin Che reached out to slap Su Xiaoxiao.

Su Mo had been wary of him. He flashed forward and grabbed his wrist!

Su Xiaoxiao tucked a strand of hair into her sleeve and gently dusted her sleeves. She smiled and said, “I'll leave first. I wonder if I can call you… Protector Duke the next time I see you.”

Qin Che was furious!

Sitting in Su Mo's carriage, Su Xiaoxiao was in a good mood.

She opened the walnut jar. Well, there were new walnuts, and they were big and complete.

She threw one into her mouth and hummed a tune rhythmically as she sucked it. Her head swayed, reminding Su Mo of the three children in the courtyard.

As expected, after interacting with her for a long time, their small actions and expressions were synchronized.

Those who didn't know better would think that they were her biological children.

Thinking of the three children, Su MO couldn't help but remember something serious.

“Cousin,” he said, “the Protectorate and the royal family are engaged. It was decided when the late emperor was still alive. It was because my grandfather did not father a daughter that it was extended to the next generation.”

If her cousin recovered her identity, wouldn't she have to be the Third Prince's consort?

Compared to Wei Xichao, the Third Prince was indeed more acceptable to the two families.

Su MO would not admit that he still did not dare to tell his family that the husband this girl had kidnapped was actually the youngest son of the Wei family.

He was afraid that his grandfather would faint from the stimulation.

Speaking of which, once their cousin became the prince's wife, it meant that they would be on the Third Prince's ship and would advance and retreat with him from now on.

This was not about whether they wanted to participate in the competition for the throne, but after the marriage, some things could not be separated.

However… with this girl's personality, would she really be willing to accept this marriage?

She seemed to have a good relationship with Wei Ting.

Su Xiaoxiao blinked. “Is the Third Prince handsome?”

Su MO was speechless.

“Young Master!”

The coachman suddenly spoke.

Su MO asked, “What is it?”

The coachman lowered his voice and said, “Something's wrong.”

Su MO opened the curtain a crack and looked in the direction indicated by the coachman.

Qin Che?

If he remembered correctly, wasn't Qin Che grounded by his granduncle?

Was he allowed to enter and leave freely so quickly?

No, Qin Che was not wearing his own clothes.

Qin Che had indeed disguised himself.

If not for the fact that he had forgotten to wear a bamboo hat in the carriage and only put it on after coming out, the coachman and Su MO probably would not have discovered him.

“What's wrong?” Su Xiaoxiao asked.

“It's Qin Che,” Su MO said to Su Xiaoxiao.

Su Xiaoxiao smiled faintly. “Yo, he can't sit still after such a short time.”

Her acting skills were not wasted.

“Go down and take a look!” Su Xiaoxiao put down the walnut.

Just as she was about to jump out of the carriage, Su MO hugged her waist.

Su MO said, “Be careful. The person beside Qin Che is called Xu Qing. He's a very powerful swordsman in the martial world.”

Su Xiaoxiao lay on his arm like a fat salted fish waiting to be dried.

She pointed at Xu Qing's waist. “Isn't he carrying a sword?”

Su MO brought her into the alley. “It's just a smokescreen to hide his identity.”

Su Xiaoxiao raised her eyebrows. “You've investigated. You're related to the Qin family, but you actually investigated the Qin family. Did you realize that there was something wrong with the Qin family long ago?”

“No…” Just as Su MO finished speaking, he hesitated.

Su Xiaoxiao understood immediately. “I understand. You're wary of everyone.”

This eldest young master of the Su family was very shrewd.

Su MO didn't continue this topic with Su Xiaoxiao.

He chased after Qin Che and Xu Qing until they entered a gambling den. Then, he took two bamboo hats and put them on himself and Su Xiaoxiao.

Qin Che and Xu Qing entered the casino and left through the back door.

Su MO followed closely and didn't forget to explain to Su Xiaoxiao in a low voice, “They're afraid of being followed and used the casino to shake off anyone who could be following them. Xu Qing is very cautious.”

Su Xiaoxiao blinked. “Oh, and they entered the brothel.”

The brothel was also a cover. They circled around and turned out the back door.

Although Xu Qing was vigilant enough, he had to face Su Mo.

There were many people in the brothel.

A group of women surged forward. Su MO subconsciously grabbed Su Xiaoxiao's wrist.

He realized it and was about to let go when the girls bumped into him with smiles.

His eyes narrowed as he pulled Su Xiaoxiao out of the brothel..

Chapter 267

“Over there!”

He saw a corner of a shirt turning into the alley.

Just as the two of them chased into the alley, they bumped into an old man who was fleeing with his head in his hands.

“Don't run! Accept your loss! Hand over the silver!”

A few thugs chased after him with sticks.

As he fled, he shouted, “I, I, I… I said I would return it to you next time!”

“Stop right there!”

Seeing that those people were about to catch up, the old man and Su Mo bumped into each other.

A few thugs suddenly smashed their sticks at his back. Su Mo raised his hand and gently pulled away one of the sticks.

He waved his hand and easily knocked down the sticks of the others.

Seeing that he was not to be trifled with, the few of them exchanged glances and turned to run.

The old man let out a long sigh.

Su Mo looked at him, took off his bamboo hat, and greeted, “Second Master.”

Su Xiaoxiao tilted her head and recognized him. It was the second master of the Qin family, Qin Hai, whom she had met on the streets last time.

At that time, Su Xiaoxiao was sitting in the carriage and was not sure if Qin Hai had seen her. Anyway, she had seen Qin Hai.

Qin Hai smiled awkwardly. “It's you. Eh? This is…'

Su Xiaoxiao was wearing a bamboo hat that covered her face.

Su MO said, “A cousin.”

“Ah…” Qin Hai sized Su Xiaoxiao up and didn't ask carefully.

He scratched his head and said awkwardly, “I was unlucky today and lost all my money. But don't worry, they don't know who I am. I didn't reveal my identity… Don't spread it. If my brother finds out that I went to the gambling den, he'll scold me again.”

“Okay,” Su MO agreed.

Qin Hai patted his shoulder and said, “It's settled then. You must keep it a secret for me. I'll leave first. If I go back late, the wife at home will nag again…

Su Xiaoxiao tilted her head and looked thoughtfully at Qin Hail s departing back.

Su MO chased a few more steps forward. Unfortunately, he lost them.

He turned around and saw that Su Xiaoxiao didn't follow him. He couldn't help but ask, “What's wrong?”

Su Xiaoxiao recalled. “The first time I went to the Duke Protector's Estate to investigate, the Protector's Estate increased their vigilance.”

Su MO nodded. “That's right.”

Su MO also realized this.

Guard Feng did not look like he had gathered his people at the last minute.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “I've been wondering why the Duke's Estate suddenly increased its vigilance. Could it be that the vendor's death during the day alerted the enemy?”

She was referring to the vendor called Xiangzi.

Xiangzi poisoned the Old Marquis through the dumpling leaves. Su Mo's men found him and he seized the opportunity to poison himself during the interrogation.

Su Xiaoxiao said calmly, “But that day, we saw someone on the way back to Pear Blossom Lane. It happened to be before I left for the Protectorate.” A name came out—Qin Hai.

Su MO gasped. “Don't tell me you suspect… But he didn't see you, nor did he know you… and didn't know that you would investigate…”

Su Xiaoxiao said unhurriedly, “This is your personal judgment and speculation. Only he knows if he saw me or if he knows me. Only he knows that I might want to go to the Duke's Estate to investigate.”

Su MO was completely shocked.

He frowned and said, “Qin Hai… is a loafer. He's ignorant, incompetent, and doesn't do his job. He idles around all day…”

Su Xiaoxiao continued, “It seemed like a coincidence just now. We were clearly about to catch up to Qin Che. His appearance disrupted our plan.”

Su MO was silent.

Su Xiaoxiao lowered her head and began to look for something on the ground.

“You…” Su MO looked at Su Xiaoxiao in confusion.

“I found it.” Su Xiaoxiao pinched a strand of hair on the ground and took out a clean handkerchief to wrap it.

Su MO finally couldn't take it anymore. “Why have you been picking people's hair all day?”

Don't think he didn't see that she had also taken a strand of hair from Qin Che.

Did this girl have some special fetish?

After returning to Pear Blossom Lane, Su Xiaoxiao closed the door.

It was rare that the pharmacy didn't take advantage of her and let her in smoothly.

The base pharmacy had the highest-end medical equipment, and the results came out very quickly.

Qin Che and Qin Canglan's biological relationship was established but did not support a parent-child relationship.

Su Xiaoxiao was not surprised.

Her gaze landed on the results of the comparison between Qin Che and Qin Hai.

“I see..”

Chapter 268

Su Xiaoxiao went to the kitchen to cook.

Su Ergou had gone to deliver the goods and had not returned for the entire day. Those who didn't know better would think that he had sent them to the palace.

The three little ones were not there either.

Dahu did not act on his own when he went to listen to the music today. Instead, he brought his two burdens in the form of his brothers.

Xiaohu entered the house first.

He also knew to take off his shoes first.

He stomped into the house and looked at the thin man sitting on the futon. He politely called him uncle and tilted his head to point at the big thing in front of him. “What is this?”

Ling Yun glanced at the little guy. “Zither, who are you?”

Xiaohu patted his chest gently and said, “I'm Xiaohu.”

Soon, Erhu also took off his shoes and entered the house.

“Who are you?” Ling Yun asked.

Erhu's eyes darted around. “I'm Dahu!”

“You're not.” Ling Yun exposed him at a glance.

Erhu was dumbfounded. “Eh?”

He actually didn't manage to deceive him?

Ling Yun said calmly, “There's no additional spiral on Dahu's forehead.”

Dahu only had a spiral on his head.

Erhu and Xiaohu had many hair spirals, and each of them had a winding spiral on their foreheads.

Erhu scratched his head. This handsome uncle looked a little smart.

Dahu placed the small shoes that had been thrown everywhere by his stinky brothers at the door.

It was so tiring to be a big brother. His two stinky brothers were too unreliable.

Ling Yun fiddled with the strings, making a crisp and pleasant sound. Xiaohu came up to him and asked in a childish voice, “Can I touch it?”

“Whatever,” Ling Yun said.

Dahu had touched it without any issues. Ling Yun felt that it was fine to let the other two touch it.

Soon, he regretted it.

Xiaohu imitated him very seriously and pulled the strings.

Clang!

Ling Yun shuddered and his hair stood on end!

Xiaohu did not think that his playing was very unpleasant. On the contrary, he felt that it was quite pleasant.

He felt he was really amazing!

Xiaohu pulled again, then again.

Clang! Clang! Clang! Clang! Clang!

To people with absolute musical talent, the demonic sounds played by Xiaohu were simply fatal.

“That's not how it's played.”

So this was called playing.

Xiaohu learned a verb and asked, “Then how do I play it?”

Ling Yun had stopped taking in disciples a few years ago. He did not teach anyone zither skills in any form.

However, this little fellow's playing… was really unbearable.

He closed his eyes, took a deep breath, and slowly raised his head. He hooked his fingertips gently on the strings. “Watch carefully. Here.”

A pleasant voice sounded, like a breeze passing through a mountain stream, gentle and ethereal.

Xiaohu nodded, indicating that he had learned it.

He raised his small self-taught arm and followed suit, hooking his little finger.

It was even worse.

Xiaohu was immersed in his demonic sound. “How fun! I have to come over every day from now on!”

Ling Yun trembled..

In the evening, the three little ones skipped home.

The person who came with them was Ling Yun's personal servant, Deng An.

Deng An was holding a huge zither case.

Su Xiaoxiao looked at him strangely, not understanding why he came to the door with a zither.

Deng An smiled awkwardly and said, “My young master said that Xiaohu.. Xiaohu is very interested in playing the zither… Uh… he has some talent. I'll give this Luanzheng to Xiaohu. He can play it at home when he's free.”

“There was no need to look for my young master to play.”

Su Xiaoxiao said politely, “I'm sorry. Take it back.”

Luanzheng was also a zither. It was not cheap.

Deng An broke out in cold sweat. “No, no, no. My young master and Brother Xiaohu hit it off. A good zither is a gift to a soulmate! You must accept it!” If he didn't accept, Young Master would peel his skin off!

Su Xiaoxiao patted Xiaohu's head. “Xiaohu, do you like to play the zither?”

Xiaohu thought for a moment. “1 like it!”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Then let's acknowledge Uncle Ling as your master and learn the zither from him every day.”

Xiaohu nodded. “Okay!”

Deng An was about to cry.

After a few days, Yuchi Xiu and the man in white returned to the capital.

The white-robed man went to the Wei family to report to Matriarch Wei.

Yuchi Xiu found Wei Ting near Pear Blossom Lane.

Wei Ting sat in the carriage with a cold expression.

Yuchi Xiu asked the secret guard, “What's wrong, Sir?”

The secret guard said, “He's probably not satisfied.” Wei Ting said coldly, “Do you not want to work anymore?”

The secret guard shrank his neck and gestured.

In summary, their Master and the little fat girl had a difficult relationship and their treatment was demoted. They could still lie under the same blanket in the countryside, but he was now chased into the room next door.

Yuchi Xiu lifted the curtain and sat down beside Wei Ting. “No way, Lord, you haven't taken her down yet? Are you unable to do it?”

Wei Ting glanced at him coldly. “Is your head very hard?”

Yuchi Xiu said, “I don't know my head is hard, but I definitely have more methods to deal with women than you. If I were you, I would have done it long ago!”

Wei Ting chuckled. “Is that so? Have you settled Su Yuniang?”

“Ahem!”

A certain braggart choked fiercely.

“I have nothing to do with her. She was the one who molested me. I don't have any improper thoughts about her!”

Wei Ting snorted. “It's best if you don't.”

If that girl knew that his killer had seduced Su Yuniang, she would definitely explode.

“Lord, do you want to get along with that girl or not? If you do, you have to do it as soon as possible. She's from the Qin family. Matriarch Wei won't agree to you being together. You have to sleep with her first. That way, Matriarch Wei will have to accept it even if she doesn't want to.”

Yuchi Xiu had just learned about Su Xiaoxiao's background from the secret guard.

He was happy to watch the show and did not mind the matter being blown up.

Wei Ting was shameless, but he had never been loose in this aspect.

He said coldly, “Do I need you to come up with bad ideas?”

Yuchi Xiu sighed and said earnestly, “How is it a bad idea? I'm doing this for your own good. Sir, don't be embarrassed. All men have their first time. If you're worried that she'll reject you, I'll teach you a way! Go buy a pot of wine and pretend to be drunk at night. Go to her room. If she doesn't chase you out, it means she has tacitly agreed to your approach. Take the opportunity! If she blames you the next day, say that you drank too much and don't remember. It won't be awkward!”

The secret guard couldn't help but stick his head in through the curtain gap and ask suspiciously, “Isn't this taking advantage of others?”

Yuchi Xiu continued, “What do you know? This is called emboldening! If that girl doesn't agree, she will definitely kick your young master out. Don't worry about her. She's not someone who can suffer a loss. You should worry about your young master. He will either be kicked out or squeezed into persimmons by that girl…'

Wei Ting said with a cold expression, “What nonsense is this? I'm not listening. ”

Fifteen minutes later, Wei Ting returned home with a jar of wine..

Chapter 269

Qin Canglan also came over today.

He originally wanted to enter the palace to meet the emperor, but after thinking about it, he felt that there were too many misunderstandings. He had to explain it to the little fat granddaughter.

Su Xiaoxiao was acting so fiercely in the Protector Duke's Estate and thought that Qin Canglan was here to settle the score. Unexpectedly, Qin Canglan did not mention that she had framed Qin Che.

“Did your father go out with Ergou?”

Qin Canglan asked.

As Su Xiaoxiao kneaded the dough, she said, “Oh, my father, Dahu, and the others went to play with the foal. Ergou went to buy flour.”

Qin Canglan sat on the small stool behind the stove and added some firewood from time to time.

He hesitated for a moment and said awkwardly, “I came to tell you that I have nothing to do with Madam Ruan.”

Su Xiaoxiao nodded. “You mean the night you were drunk?”

“You…” Qin Canglan thought that he was straightforward enough, but he did not expect this girl to be even more straightforward than him.

He frowned. “The old monkey told you?”

“No!” Su Xiaoxiao decided not to sell out the Old Marquis.

However, Qin Canglan was not stupid. Other than Su Shuo, there was no one else in the world who could tell her about these past events.

Qin Canglan gritted his teeth in anger.

He would cut off that Su fellow sooner or later!

“I did drink too much that night and fainted. When I woke up, I was indeed lying on her bed… But I… definitely didn't touch her.”

He was a man and knew very well if he had touched a woman.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Oh.”

Qin Canglan looked at her nervously. “Do you… believe me or not?”

He didn't care how others wronged him. But he cared what the children thought.

“I believe you,” Su Xiaoxiao said.

This was the first person to say that she believed him. Qin Canglan was so touched that he almost cried.

In the next second, he heard Su Xiaoxiao say seriously, “A man can't have sex when he's drunk. If he can, it means that he's not ridiculously drunk. He must be conscious and remember what he did. If he doesn't remember anything when he wakes up the next day, he must have been drunk. In that case, how can he still keep it up?”

“Cough, cough, cough!”

Qin Canglan choked until his face turned red.

In the front courtyard, Wei Ting, who had just entered with a wine jar, paused.

Su Xiaoxiao continued, “Some people have watched too much drama. Do they really think men can do that when they're drunk? Those men were all pretending! They act with the help of alcohol and say, 'I drank too much last night. I didn't expect it to turn out like this. Don't worry, I'll be responsible for you'!”

Su Xiaoxiao grabbed the kitchen knife and chopped it on the chopping board!

“If I meet such a man, I'll chop off his tool!”

Wei Ting threw the wine jar out in a second…

Qin Canglan did not stay in Pear Blossom Lane for long.

No matter whose son Qin Che was, he was not his. He could not allow Qin Che to continue occupying Su Cheng's identity.

Now that the truth was unknown, there were still many things he needed to do.

Su Xiaoxiao placed the kneaded dough into the alms bowl and woke up. “I think you can go see Qin Hai.”

Qin Canglan was puzzled. “How do you know this name?”

Su Xiaoxiao patted the flour on her hand. “I've met him twice. Although Qin Che isn't your son,… he looks so similar to you. Have you never suspected anything?”

Qin Cang trembled. “You mean…'

This year, there was especially a lot of rain in the capital in spring. It had just rained two days ago, and lightning began to flash and thunder at night.

Qin Hai had just come out of the gambling den and had forgotten to bring an umbrella. Looking at the unpredictable weather, he frowned.

He hurriedly ran towards his carriage.

As soon as he lifted the curtain, a hole seemed to have been torn in the sky, and heavy rain fell.

“Fortunately, I ran fast!”

He smiled proudly, dusted his wide sleeves, and sat down on the stool.

Then, with a thud, he fell from the chair!

“Brother?” Damn it!

Why was his brother in the carriage?

It scared him to death!

Qin Canglan was like a demon, his eyes gathering endless killing intent. “You still know that I'm your brother!”

Qin Hai broke out in cold sweat and swallowed his saliva. He got up in fear and was far away from his brother. He almost sat outside.

He asked nervously, “Brother, what are you doing? Haven't you been feeling unwell recently… recuperating in the residence? Why… why are you… here for me…

Qin Canglan said coldly, “What have you done? You'd better tell me the truth!”

Chapter 270

“I…” Qin Hai looked in the direction of the gambling den and said awkwardly, “I couldn't help it, right? I just went to gamble twice. I swear that I've really changed a lot in the past two years… I haven't gone to the gambling den for a long time… Just this once… and you caught me!”

Qin Canglan's eyes were cold. “I'll settle the score with you later! I came today to ask you what's going on with Ruan Xianglian and Qin Che!”

Qin Hai's eyes flashed.

Qin Canglan slapped the table. “You don't dare to make a sound, right? Qin Hai! Do you want me to hand you over to the Emperor to deal with!”

Qin Hai's expression changed. “Brother!”

Qin Canglan pointed at his nose and said, “Don't think that you did it flawlessly. The dirty things you did back then have been discovered long ago!”

Qin Hai's legs went weak and he knelt down in the carriage. He looked at Qin Canglan pleadingly. “Brother… I… I didn't do it on purpose… I was confused… That's why I…”

Qin Canglan did not expect to be able to trick him so easily.

Sometimes, the clues were clearly beside him, but he had been blindsided. At this moment, Qin Canglan did not know if he should blame himself or the instigator.

He looked at Qin Hai in disappointment. “You were really on good terms with Ruan Xianglian… Qin Che is your flesh and blood, isn't he? How could our Qin family have such a bastard? Come with me to see the Emperor! Tell him what happened back then in front of the Emperor!”

Qin Hai hugged Qin Canglan's thigh. “Big Brother, I was wrong! Don't let me meet the emperor! I really know my mistake… Big Brother, I beg you…”

Qin Canglan clenched his fists tightly. “Is it enough to admit your mistake? Although we're not from the same mother, I've never treated you badly. After I lost my son, I even thought of passing the title of Protector Duke to you… I never expected… you to stab me in the back! Was it you who caused the accident between Huayin and Cheng'er back then?”

Qin Hai was stunned. “Brother, what did you say?

Qin Canglan said angrily, “You're still not admitting it? For the sake of your son with Ruan Xianglian, you didn't hesitate to kill your sister-in-law and nephew. Qin Hai, has your conscience been fed to the dogs?”

“I didn't harm Sister-in-law and Nephew!” Qin Hai knelt down and raised his finger. “I swear to the heavens that I didn't want to harm Sister-in-law and Cheng'er…”

Qin Canglan said, “You didn't want to do it? But it was done?”

“I… I…” Qin Hail s eyes turned red. He hugged his head and lay on the ground. “I… I don't know…”

Qin Canglan hated it when a man was so submissive. “What do you mean you don't know?!”

Qin Hai choked and said, “Back then… Back then, Xianglian… After she escaped from the manor with her child… I couldn't believe that it was my son at first… But he really looked too similar… Big Brother, you insisted that you had never touched Xianglian… I… I was finally sure…”

Qin Canglan paused and remembered that there was indeed such a conversation.

He asked resentfully, “Back then, you came to me and asked if I had touched Xianglian. So it was just to confirm if that bastard was your flesh and blood?”

Qin Hai shrank his neck.

Qin Canglan gritted his teeth in anger. “What happened after that?!”

Qin Hai did not dare to look at his brother's anger. “Later… I settled the mother and son down. Che'er was still young at that time… he didn't remember having called me father for two years…”

Qin Hai was indeed not lying about this.

Qin Che really didn't remember.

“Che'er is my son's name… ” Qin Canglan was furious. Qin Hai whispered, “I was used to calling him that.” Qin Canglan really wanted to punch him to death. However, he remembered that he was not here to vent his anger but to find out the entire truth.

He tried his best to suppress his emotions. “What about Huayin?”

Qin Hai lowered his head. “Xianglian left after less than two years. She said that she was going back to her hometown with her son to visit her family. I gave her a sum of money.” “A sum?”

“Ten..ten thousand taels.”

Qin Canglan's veins twitched. “You're quite generous!”

Qin Hai did not have the guts to refute.

“After that, Xianglian never returned. I only contacted her once a year later. It was a letter from Qingzhou. It said that she… was seriously ill and needed money for treatment. I… I gathered more money for her… and sent a few thousand taels over.. After another year… I heard that something happened to Sister-in-law and Nephew in Qingzhou…”

Chapter 271

This matched the clues Qin Canglan had investigated.

The group of people who assassinated Su Huayin and Su Cheng back then was clearly a group of bandits. They were the kind who were paid to carry out vices.

He had once suspected that his enemy had hired someone to kill him.

Unfortunately, that group of desperadoes died too quickly, and the clues were interrupted.

He and the Su family continued to investigate, but they did not uncover anything.

Qin Canglan was furious, and even his voice trembled. “Since you suspect that Ruan Xianglian hired someone to kill them, why didn't you tell me earlier?”

Qin Hai cried, “Brother… I didn't guess it from the beginning… I saw her many years later… She brought Che… that child over… said that she wanted him to assume my nephew's identity… I didn't agree… She knelt down and begged me…

She said that the real Qin Che was already dead anyway… The Qin family had no successor, and this title would fall to me sooner or later… I owed them… I didn't give them a status… Why don't…”

Qin Canglan continued for him, “Why don't you pass the position of High Duke to your illegitimate son?”

Qin Hai lowered his head. “I asked her how she was sure that Qin Che was dead. She refused to tell me, so I guessed that the deaths of Sister-in-law and my nephew might be related to her. I thought of rejecting her, but she threatened me in every way and even said she would die in front of me. I…”

He covered his face, too ashamed to face his brother.

Qin Canglan said coldly, “That bastard doesn't know his background?”

Qin Hai braced himself and said, “He knew when he was three or four years old. When he grew up a little, his mother told him that his father was Qin Canglan, the current Protector Duke. One day, she would send him back to his father's side. As for me, his mother told him that she had once saved me. He always thought that I wanted to repay Xianglian's kindness, so I took good care of him.”

Qin Canglan snorted coldly. “Hmph, then how do you explain that Su MO and

Daya met you twice and you ruined everything!”

Qin Hai said, “Big Brother… you mean the last two times, right? When I saw that child, I guessed that my nephew might not be dead. I wanted to persuade him to confess to you, so I got someone to go to the residence to remind him. As for the second time in the alley, I did intend to stop them.”

Qin Canglan pointed at his nose. “You're helping the wicked!”

Qin Hai raised his head and looked at Qin Canglan in shame and helplessness. “Brother, it doesn't matter if you hit me or scold me. I only have one son… I can't watch him die…”

Qin Canglan said sternly, “Do you think Daya and Mo'er were going to assassinate him?”

Qin Hai said in a low voice, “That's what he said. He asked me to help him stop them…”

“You believed him just because he said so? What kind of pig brain do you have!” Qin Canglan was simply angered to death by this stupid brother.

The carriage stopped at Pear Blossom Lane.

Qin Canglan shouted, “Explain these things in front of Daya later!”

Qin Hai was stunned. He lifted the curtain to take a look and realized that the carriage had unknowingly arrived at a quiet alley.

Moreover, the coachman had long been replaced by Qin Canglan's men.

Qin Hai was brought into the courtyard by Qin Canglan.

The family went out to do their own things. On the way, they were all drenched in the rain. At this moment, Father Su was washing the three little fellows' hair and showering, while Su Ergou returned to the house to change.

Because it was inconvenient to meet Qin Canglan, Wei Ting did not appear. He sat in the carriage again and secretly planned his next target. Su Xiaoxiao was arranging the herbs in the central room.

“Get in!”

Qin Canglan kicked Qin Hails butt.

Qin Hai staggered a few times and almost fell.

He touched the bridge of his nose awkwardly and greeted resentfully, “My… my grandniece…”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “You recognized me in the carriage last time, right?”

“Yes,” Qin Hai admitted honestly.

Su Xiaoxiao had guessed it, so she was not too surprised.

She looked at Qin Hai. “You're here for…'

Qin Hai resigned himself to fate and said, “I've already confessed to Big Brother just now. Qin Che is my son.” Su Xiaoxiao asked, “Are you sure?”

Qin Hai was surprised. “Huh?”

What kind of words were those?

If he wasn't sure, why would he acknowledge Qin Che?

Su Xiaoxiao looked at Qin Canglan. “You left before I could finish. Qin Che looks like you and Qin Hai.”

When Qin Canglan faced Su Xiaoxiao, the killing intent in his eyes instantly disappeared. “That's right. That's why I expected him to be Qin Hai's son.”

Su Xiaoxiao shook her head. “That's not what I'm talking about. I did a genetic test on you. You can understand it as… another form of blood identification. The results show that Qin Che is related to you, but not as father and son. In layman's terms, neither of you is Qin Che's biological father.”

“What?”

Qin Canglan and Qin Hai opened their mouths at the same time.

Su Xiaoxiao flipped through the test report on the table and said seriously, “Qin Che is your brother.”

The two of them felt as though they were struck by lightning..

Chapter 272

His half-brother.

In the beginning, Su Xiaoxiao also guessed that Qin Hai was Qin Che's biological father.

It was not until she received the test results from the pharmacy that she came to a realization.

There was an explanation for many things that she could not figure out in the past.

For example, why did Qin Che look like he was from the Qin family? Because he was.

For example, why was Mother Qin so merciless to Ruan Xianglian and her son back then?

It was not strange that she did not like Ruan Xianglian, but Qin Che was her biological grandson after all. How could she bear to send her biological grandson away?

It would make sense if he was an illegitimate son born of a love rival.

Mrs. Qin would wish she could kill that little bastard, right?

Of course, the person Mother Qin wanted to kill the most was Ruan Xianglian.

In order to stay in the Qin family, Ruan Xianglian used all kinds of methods. When she failed to seduce the young Qin Canglan, she slept with Mr. Qin, who was in his prime. It would be strange if Mrs. Qin could tolerate her.

Ruan Xianglian caused Su Huayin's death and suffocated Mother Qin and Qin Canglan's second wife, but in the end, she could not witness the day her son brought her back to the Qin residence.

It was retribution.

Qin Canglan and Qin Hai supported each other and sat in the carriage back.

The son he had raised for so many years was actually his younger brother.

How could it be reasonable?

To Qin Canglan, the greatest blow had already passed.

In his heart, the most important things were his biological son and two precious grandchildren. At his age, half of his body was already in the grave. He did not know how many more years he could dote on them.

He didn't want them to suffer anymore.

“I'll go into the palace for a while,” Qin Canglan said to the dejected Qin Hai. “Go make up for the mess you caused yourself. Tell him his background from the beginning!”

“Why do you want me to say it?” Qin Hai had suffered a huge blow. He was not as decisive and arbitrary as Qin Canglan, nor had he ever had any thoughts about Ruan Xianglian.

He had really admired that woman.

He treated her as his sweetheart, but she slept with his father…

Woah…

Qin Hai wanted to burst into tears…

Su Cheng gave the three little ones a shower and returned to the house to wash up and change into clean clothes.

Su Xiaoxiao helped the three of them put on their clothes. Dahu and Erhu were quite cooperative and Xiaohu slipped away.

He ran to the other side of the bed. A cloth towel was tied around his waist, covering his shy butt.

He ran across the bed.

Children were really not afraid of the cold. It was late March, and the rain was pouring and the wind was strong, but the little children were sweating all over the bed.

Su Xiaoxiao grabbed Xiaohu and wiped his sweat.

When Wei Ting arrived home, Dahu and Erhu went to play with Su Ergou. Only the naked Xiaohu was caught by Su Xiaoxiao in her arms.

“Put it on yourself!” Wei Ting said solemnly.

“No!” Xiaohu turned around and threw himself into Su Xiaoxiao's arms, throwing his stinky father a butt.

Su Xiaoxiao helped the little guy put on his clothes and sniffed. She asked Wei Ting, “Have you been drinking?”

Wei Ting said without changing his expression, “No.”

Su Xiaoxiao frowned. “But you smell of alcohol.”

Wei Ting's expression was calm. “Oh, someone accidentally spilled it.”

Su Xiaoxiao looked at him suspiciously. “Really? Why don't I believe you?”

Wei Ting asked coldly, “What do you mean?”

Su Xiaoxiao covered Xiaohu's ears with both hands and said to Wei Ting, “I thought you wanted to use alcohol to commit certain acts. You wanted to sneak into my room in the middle of the night and do something to me!”

Wei Ting chuckled. “How is that possible? If someone wants to do anything bad, it's you who wants to do something bad to me.”

As he spoke, he seemed to increase the persuasiveness of his words. “Look at how many times you took off my clothes in the countryside.”

Su Xiaoxiao coughed. “I think so.”

Xiaohu raised his head strangely and looked at his mother, then at his father. He did not understand why his mother was covering his little ears.

Su Xiaoxiao let go. “Your ears are so beautiful.”

Xiaohu tugged at his small ears in agreement and shook his head proudly.

“That's right. Xiaohu's ears are especially beautiful!”

The corners of Wei Ting's mouth twitched.

His gaze inadvertently swept across and landed on the open zither case. Inside the zither case was a Luanzheng that emitted an ancient aura.

It looked familiar.

“Did you buy a zither?” he asked.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “A neighbor gave it to Xiaohu. He said that Xiaohu has the talent to play the zither. I think he probably wants to take Xiaohu as his disciple, right?”

When Xiaohu heard his mother talking about him, he quickly jumped up and jumped around the bed to announce his sovereignty.

“My zither! My zither! My zither!”

“Okay, okay, okay. It's yours.” Su Xiaoxiao pulled him over again and helped him put on his pants.

Xiaohu said in a childish voice, “Mother, help me put away the zither. Mother can touch it. Dahu, Erhu can't touch it!”

When he said the last sentence, he did not forget to wave his hand seriously.

Su Xiaoxiao said in amusement, “Alright, I'll put it away for you.”

If Dahu knew that he was so petty, he would peel him off again.

Wei Ting looked away.

He had probably seen wrongly.

After all, no one in this world would casually give away the number one zither in the world, the Nine Phoenix, to a boisterous child as a greeting gift.

There were Xiaohu's favorite “pig balls” for dinner. He shook his head and ate a few.

“Are they delicious?” Su Xiaoxiao asked.

Xiaohu raised his head from the small bowl and said with enjoyment, “They're fragrant!”

After dinner, the rain stopped.

The three little ones took advantage of the situation and rushed into the courtyard to tread water, like three little pugs who had jumped into a mud pit.

Father Su came out to take a look and instantly broke down.

He pressed his head with both hands and the dragon roared, “I just bathed you!”

In the Imperial Palace, late at night, Emperor Jing Xuan was still reviewing memorials in the imperial study.

Eunuch Fu walked over with his horsetail whisk and bowed to ask softly, “Your Majesty, it's getting late. Do you want to settle down?” “Has the rain stopped?” Emperor Jing Xuan asked.

“It's stopped,” Eunuch Fu said. “Looking at the weather, it might rain again later.”

Emperor Jing Xuan said, “There's a lot of rain this year.”

Eunuch Fu hurriedly said, “That's right. It didn't rain so much in the past.”

Emperor Jing Xuan had a worried expression. “I wonder if there's also heavy rain among the commoners.”

Spring rain was a good thing and was beneficial to farming, but it would not do if there was too much. It would flood good fields, and in serious cases, it might even cause floods.

A young eunuch came over with a food box.

Eunuch Fu took the food box and placed the snacks on the emperor's table.

Emperor Jing Xuan did not indulge in food. He only ate 60 to 70% of his fill three times a day. Sometimes, he would eat supper if he was late.

More snacks.

Emperor Jing Xuan took a bite casually.

This taste… seemed different from what she had eaten in the past.

He ate four pieces in a row, stunning Eunuch Fu.

“Which chef made it?” Emperor Jing Xuan said. “Reward.”

Eunuch Fu said, “It's not made by the imperial kitchen. It's from Kunning

Palace. ”

Emperor Jing Xuan paused. “Empress?”

The empress and Emperor Jing Xuan were a couple when they were young. After Emperor Jing Xuan ascended the throne, he conferred her the title of empress. However, she was not favored and had few children. She only had Princess Jingning.

Emperor Jing Xuan sighed. “We're going to Kunning Palace.”

In Kunning Palace, the empress planned to rest.

She asked the little palace maid beside her, “Have you sent the snacks to

Jingning?”

“I sent it,” the little palace maid said.

Gao Dabao, who had just returned to report, was stunned. “Is… is it for Her Highness?”

Oh my god!

He had sent it to the imperial study!

“His Majesty has arrived…'

“Is His Majesty here?”

In Qixiang Palace, Consort Xian heard the commotion outside the door and hurriedly touched the pearls on her temples.

She was wearing thin ice silk pajamas with light makeup on her cheeks. Her eyebrows were lightly decorated, and her lips were slightly moist.

At first glance, one would think that she was born beautiful.

The young eunuch slowly went forward and reported, “Your Highness, His

Majesty is resting in Kunning Palace tonight.”

Consort Xian's expression changed. “What?! It's neither the first nor the fifteenth day of the lunar new year. Why did His Majesty go to Kunning Palace?

Didn't that woman fall out of favor long ago?!”

The young eunuch did not dare to breathe heavily.

Consort Xian said coldly, “Go to Kunning Palace and say that I'm not feeling well. Report to the empress and allow me to invite an imperial physician.”

“Yes.”

The young eunuch hurriedly went.

When the empress heard that Consort Xian was unwell, she hurriedly urged Emperor Jing Xuan to gp over and take a look.

Unfortunately, the emperor was intercepted halfway.

“Your Majesty, the old Protector Duke requests an audience!”

Emperor Jing Xuan pinched his sore eyebrows. “It's so late and it's raining heavily. Why is he here?”

The eunuch said, “I heard that he has something to report.”

Emperor Jing Xuan frowned. “Go to the imperial study. Tell Consort Xian that I'll visit her tomorrow.”

In the imperial study, Emperor Jing Xuan saw Qin Canglan coming in the rain.

Qin Canglan naturally had to pay attention to his appearance. His hem and shoes were drenched, but his clothes were not messy at all.

The emperor asked amiably, “Minister Qin, why did you enter the palace so late?”

Qin Canglan flipped open his hem and knelt down.. He said, “Your Majesty, my son… has returned!”

Chapter 273

These words confused Emperor Jing Xuan.

Emperor Jing Xuan thought for a moment and asked, “Has the Duke… left the capital? If he's back, so be it. Is it worth you mobilizing so many people? It's just leaving the capital. If you didn't report it, I wouldn't be angry over such a small matter.”

Generally speaking, such ministers with noble titles were not allowed to leave the capital on their own.

However, it was not worth coming to apologize in the middle of the night, right?

Qin Canglan said seriously, “What I mean is… my real son with Huayin has returned. The current Protector Duke is not the real Qin Che!”

As he spoke, he cupped his hands and apologized. “I'm guilty of confusing the direct bloodline of the Protectorate and causing Your Majesty to be deceived. Please punish me, Your Majesty!”

“…That's what happened. I've already said what I needed to say. If you don't believe me, I can't do anything about it. Go ask Big Brother yourself.”

In the study, Qin Hai suppressed the anger in his chest and told Qin Che about his background.

No one knew how much pain and struggle he had experienced.

This was simply the most f*cked-up thing in his life.

God must not like his idle and prodigal behavior, so he gave him a series of loud slaps.

Qin Che looked at Qin Hai with eyes as cold as ice. There was already a trace of obsession in his eyes. “I don't believe you. I don't believe a word you say!”

Qin Hai said with a headache, “What's the benefit of lying to you? Your mother and I…”

Qin Che shouted, “Shut up! You're not allowed to insult my mother! My mother only has my father as her husband and has never slept with any other man!”

Qin Hai wanted to say something but hesitated. After a while, he waved his hand impatiently. “Alright, alright, alright. Do whatever you want. Anyway, the mission Big Brother gave me has been completed! What's there to reject? When Big Brother comes back, go look for him!”

Qin Che clenched his fists tightly, his nails almost digging into his palms.

The dim candlelight landed on one of his cheeks, reflecting a sinister light in his eyes.

Qin Hai stood up and left. When he reached the door, he stopped and frowned at him. “You should be content. After all, you're the flesh and blood of our Qin family!”

If he was really a bastard outside, it would not be enough even if he died a hundred times!

Thinking of how he had gone through an injustice for so many years, Qin Hai was extremely frustrated.

“What the hell is going on!”

Qin Hai left in exasperation!

The rain outside had clearly stopped, but for some reason, there was another flash of lightning.

The strong wind extinguished the candles on the table, and the room flickered, making Qin Che look sinister.

He was stunned for a long time before suddenly raising his arm and brushing away the porcelain and calligraphy on the table!

His eyes were red as he roared, “I don't believe it… I don't believe it! I don't believe…”

At Qi Xiang Palace, Consort Xian sat on the chaise longue, holding a book in one hand and supporting her head with the other.

She wanted to read a lot of poetry, but she would often feel sleepy after reading a book.

With a loud bang, Consort Xian trembled in shock and the book in her hand fell to the ground.

The palace maid quickly bowed and picked it up, before giving it to Consort Xian with both hands.

Consort Xian couldn't be bothered to take it.

At this moment, Nanny Gui, who had served her for many years, walked in with a bowl of freshly cooked rock sugar stewed bird's nest.

Nanny Gui placed the bird's nest on the small table and took the poetry book handed over by the palace maid. “You can leave.”

“Yes. ”

The palace maid retreated respectfully.

Nanny Gui placed the poetry book on the table, picked up the bird's nest, and handed it to

Consort Xian. “Your Highness, you don't eat much for dinner. Eat some bird's nest.”

Consort Xian rubbed the flesh on her stomach. “I'm not eating anymore. I don't want to become fat. ”

In order to maintain their figures, the women in the palace were all wary of food. It was common for them to starve.

In Consort Xian's position, she had given birth to a prince and princess. Logically speaking, there was no need to serve with sex.

However, Consort Xian was not convinced of her old age. When she saw the young concubines in the harem, she refused to lose to them.

“Why isn't His Majesty here yet?” Consort Xian muttered.

Nanny Gui smiled. “He'll come over. Perhaps it's raining outside and the roads are muddy and difficult to walk on, so he's walking a little slower.”

“What was the empress up to tonight?” Consort Xian had already found out that the empress had sent snacks to Emperor Jing Xuan first before he went to Running Palace.

This was not like the Empress.

It was also not like Emperor Jing Xuan.

Emperor Jing Xuan and the Empress had long lost their relationship as husband and wife. Not to mention sending snacks, even if the empress personally washed Emperor Jing Xuan's hands and cooked soup, Emperor Jing Xuan would not be moved.

Nanny Gui said, “Your Highness, the Empress is the central palace after all.”

Consort Xian snorted. “So what if she's in the central palace? She's not doted on and can't give birth to a son. She just has the empty title of the Empress! If not for her daughter's good birth characters, do you really think His Majesty cares about her!”

Nanny Gui smiled helplessly and scooped a spoonful of bird's nest into her mouth. “Your Highness, eat some.”

In the end, Consort Xian couldn't help but taste the spoon handed to her by Nanny Gui. Then, she gently pushed the bowl aside and refused to eat anymore.

At this moment, the eunuch who had been ordered to deliver the message brought the news that Emperor Jing Xuan had been intercepted. Consort Xian's eyes turned sharp. “Which bitch is it this time?”

Nanny Gui said, “It's the old Protector Duke.”

Hearing that it was not a woman from the harem, Consort Xian's expression softened a little. “Is there going to be a war at the border again?”

Qin Canglan had long stopped attending court. In Consort Xian's opinion, he would not be here unless there was a war at the border.

Consort Xian smiled. “If the old Protector Duke leads the army again, let the Third Prince go out with him and earn a military merit.”

Military merit was the support of the people. Ordinary princes did not have the chance to receive military merit.

As for her son's safety, Consort Xian was not worried at all.

With Qin Canglan around, how could they really let the Third Prince go to the battlefield?

While Qin Canglan went to charge into the battle, the Third Prince could just wait to receive his military merits.

Consort Xian smiled happily. “Liu Sande, send a bowl of ginseng soup to His Majesty and tell His Majesty that it's enough for the Imperial Physician to take care of me. Ask His Majesty not to worry.”

Liu Sande returned from the imperial study with a strange expression. “Your Highness, something happened!”

Consort Xian asked indifferently, “Why are you so flustered?”

Liu Sande glanced at Nanny Gui. Nanny Gui was Consort Xian's trusted aide, so there was no need to keep things from her.

Liu Sande told herm the news he had accidentally heard from the imperial study.

Consort Xian sat up straight in shock. “What did you say? The Protector Duke is not Qin

Canglan's son? Then who is he? Where is the real Protector Duke?”

Liu Sande braced himself and said, “Who is he… I didn't hear him clearly. In short, there seemed to have made a mistake back then. Now that the real Protector Duke is back, he's living in the capital.”

He only went to deliver the ginseng soup and stood outside for a while, listening intermittently.

Consort Xian was burning with anxiety.

Her son was engaged to the Protectorate, but if that Qin Che was fake, wouldn't this marriage…

Consort Xian looked worried. “What did His Majesty say?”

Liu Sande said awkwardly, “That's all I heard. Later on, Eunuch Fu brought the ginseng soup in. It was not convenient for me to stay any longer, so I could only leave first.”

Nanny Gui advised, “Your Highness, why don't you wait for a while? Perhaps tomorrow, there will be news from His Majesty.”

“Can you wait for such a thing?” Consort Xian stood up and paced around the house. “No, I can't sit still. Sandezi, go to the Jing family and tell my father about this. Tell him to investigate the identity of the real Qin Che as soon as possible!”

Liu Sande walked out of Qi Xiang Palace trembling.

He was lucky. After taking a few steps, An Zi came over.

An'zi worked in the imperial study and had received Liu Sande's favor.

An'zi said, “Eunuch Liu, I heard some news.”

Fifteen minutes later, Liu Sande returned to Qixiang Palace and told them the information he had obtained.

“It was Marquis of Zhenbei who brought them back to the capital. The Su family returned to their hometown to pay respects to their ancestors and happened to meet that family…”

“That person changed his name to Su Cheng. Back then, he wandered among the commoners and didn't remember who he was. He stumbled his way into adulthood… He got married in the countryside and had a son and a daughter. They were about the same age as Miss Qin and the young master.”

Consort Xian said coldly, “What young master? That's all fake!”

“Ah, yes, yes, yes!” Liu Sande was secretly miffed that he had forgotten to change his words. He hurriedly smiled and said, “That commoner is the real Little High Duke.”

Consort Xian said thoughtfully, “You just said… that the real Qin Che also has a daughter who's the same age as Qin Yanran?”

Liu Sande said, “Yes.”

The two families were engaged. If that girl who grew up in the countryside was the real daughter of the Qin family, would she become her daughter-in-law?

Consort Xian frowned slightly. “Is a girl who grew up in the countryside worthy of my son?”.

Chapter 274

There was no business the next day. Su Xiaoxiao didn't have to wake up early to make snacks, but her biological clock woke her up on time.

She decided to put on her clothes and go to the backyard to train.

Just as she walked out of the house, she saw Su Cheng, who was always asleep until late in the morning, sitting on the small stool, eating a piece of fruit in each hand.

“Dad, so early?”

Su Xiaoxiao greeted him in confusion.

“My daughter is up.” Su Cheng burped. “Sigh, I can't sleep at the thought that these fruits will spoil if I don't eat them.”

Beside him was a heavy basket filled with loquats that Dahu had picked from the orchard. They were sweet and juicy.

Dahu had plucked a lot. Deng An had sent it over.

However, the children at home were not interested in fresh loquats. Su Ergou did not like to eat them either, so there were many left.

Su Cheng was someone who had experienced famine. He had grown up hungry and cold and could not stand wasting food.

Su Xiaoxiao didn't say, “Stop eating. We'll have to spend money to treat your stomach if you get sick. ”

She thought for a moment and said to Su Cheng, who was clearly unable to eat anymore, but was still stuffing it into his mouth, “Dad, leave some for me.”

“Alright.” Su Cheng burped again.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Can you give them all to me?”

Su Cheng trembled. “Are you going to throw it away?”

Su Xiaoxiao smiled. “No, I'll make delicious food.”

Su Xiaoxiao removed the skin and core of the washed loquat. The orange flesh was cut into small pieces and placed into two alms bowls. One alms bowl contained three spoonfuls of rock sugar, and the other only contained one and a half spoonfuls of rock sugar.

She added a small amount of clear water and waited for the rock sugar to melt and marinate into the taste before cooking it in the pot.

Because loquats were prone to oxidation and turning black, Su Xiaoxiao didn't boil them in an iron pot. Instead, she took out a pair of purple sand jars.

When the soup was simmered over a fire, the entire jar of loquats would be thick.

Five catties of loquat would yield nearly two catties of jam.

This way, the three little ones and Su Ergou would like to eat it.

Su Xiaoxiao kept half of it and divided the other half into two small jars to send to the neighbors at the east end.

It was Deng An who opened the door.

Deng An was surprised to see Su Xiaoxiao.

His first reaction was that she had brought Xiaohu to learn the zither from Young Master. He shuddered and hurriedly looked behind Su Xiaoxiao.

He heaved a sigh of relief when he didn't see the little guy.

At this moment, the sound of vomiting came from the house. An uncomfortable expression flashed across Deng An's face.

He stole a glance at Su Xiaoxiao.

Seeing that there was nothing wrong with the other party's face, he was slightly relieved.

Su Xiaoxiao asked, “Is your young master feeling unwell?”

Deng An hesitated for a moment and said, “Young Master… will be like this after eating something. ”

Vomiting as soon as he ate?

No wonder he was so thin.

Su Xiaoxiao continued, “Has your young master seen a doctor?”

Deng An shook his head. “Young Master said that he's not sick and refused to see a doctor.” It seemed that he was afraid of treatment.

Su Xiaoxiao continued to ask, “How long has your young master been in this condition?”

Deng An said, “A few years. I served Young Master two years ago. Young Master was already like this then.”

Su Xiaoxiao nodded.

Deng An continued, “However, my young master can eat two or three of your snacks.”

Even the children did not only eat two or three pieces. However, if one knew how difficult it was for their young master to eat something, they would understand how rare it was to eat two or three pieces of snacks and not spit them out.

In that case, this jam came at the right time.

Su Xiaoxiao handed the jam to Deng An. “I made the sauce myself. Tell me what your young master wants to eat in the future.”

Deng An smiled and took it. “Then I'll thank you on behalf of my young master first!”

Su Xiaoxiao smiled. “You're welcome. I haven't thanked your young master for his appreciation of Xiaohu. Don't worry, I'll send Xiaohu over to learn the zither.”

Deng An staggered and fell forward…

Inside the house, Master Zhang came to visit Ling Yun.

“Why are you like this again? Aren't you already able to eat? I knew you were lying to me!” Zhang Qinshi handed him a cup of warm water.

Ling Yun said nothing.

Zhang Qinshi tidied up his room and turned around to ask, “Where's your zither?”

“I gave it away,” Ling Yun said calmly.

Zhang Qinshi felt as if he had been struck by lightning. “What? That's Nine Phoenix! The number one zither in the world! You, you, you, you… Who did you give it to? Don't tell me it's those three little fellows!”

Ling Yun was silent.

“Really!” Zhang Qinshi gasped. “What are you thinking? That's Nine Phoenix!”

Ling Yun had no strength and lay lazily on the floor. He turned around and faced Master Zhang.

“It's just a broken zither.”

Master Zhang fell back in anger! “You prodigal…”

He held back the last two words!

On the other side, Consort Xian's family also found out the identity of Su Cheng's family overnight.

It was not difficult to investigate this.

Qin Canglan had already made up his mind. He would not protect the fake Qin Che, let alone let Su Cheng, Su Xiaoxiao, and Su Ergou live in anonymity.

The Duke of Zhenbei was the same. He openly admitted that the person who came to the residence to treat the Old Marquis was the Old Marquis's biological granddaughter.

If it weren't for the fact that Su Xiaoxiao hadn't officially acknowledged it, the Old Marquis would have set up a hundred and eighty tables of banquets and the troupe would have sung for three days and three nights.

Consort Xian sat on the chair sleepily and listened to Liu Sandei s detailed report.

She yawned, “Say again, what's the kid's name?”

“Su Daya,” Liu Sande said.

Consort Xian frowned in disdain. “Such an old-fashioned name sounds like a little country bumpkin. How does she look?”

Liu Sande laughed dryly. “Uh… a little fat.”

Consort Xian asked indifferently, “How fat is a little fat?”

Liu Sande opened his arms and made a measurement.

Consort Xian gasped and woke up from her sleep. 'lHow much can she eat?”

Liu Sande smiled awkwardly. “She's a little plump.”

Consort Xian's eyes were filled with disdain. “Full-bodied? She's already as fat as a pig!”

Liu Sande said, “No, not really. I heard that she's quite good-looking…”

Consort Xian's eyes were filled with disdain. “Full-bodied? She's already as fat as a pig!”

Liu Sande said, “No, not really. I heard that she's quite good-looking…”

Consort Xian frowned. “How good-looking can she be when she's so fat! Do you believe those servants' words?”

Liu Sande did not dare to continue.

Consort Xian continued, “Has she studied?”

Liu Sande said, “No.”

Consort Xian asked, “Has she learned the zither?”

Liu Sande said, “Never.”

Consort Xian panicked. “She has to learn one of the six arts!”

Nanny Gui said, “Your Highness, you grew up in the Imperial City. A mouthful of bird's nest is equivalent to a year's harvest for the commoners. I'm afraid you don't know that the commoners who work in the fields can't eat enough every day.”

Only she dared to say these words.

Liu Sande did not even have the guts to fart.

Consort Xian felt wronged. “How can she be worthy of my son?”

Thinking of something, Consort Xian said, “Her character is at least upright, right?”

Liu Sande gritted his teeth.

Consort Xian said coldly, “Hurry up and say it!”

Liu Sande braced himself and said, “I heard… that she's… a domineering female bully in the village.”

Consort Xian was speechless!.

Chapter 275

After Qin Canglan told Emperor Jing Xuan everything, Emperor Jing Xuan did not sleep well for the entire night.

Fortunately, there was no need for morning court assembly the next day.

Eunuch Fu heard the commotion on the dragon couch and came to help Emperor Jing Xuan change his clothes and wash up.

“Your Majesty, is there something on your mind?” Eunuch Fu put on the dragon robe for Emperor Jing Xuan.

Emperor Jing Xuan sighed. “Why do you think Qin Canglan… really dared to say it? Why didn't he hesitate?”

From the timeline Qin Canglan had instructed, it was obvious that he had just confirmed Qin Che's identity and immediately entered the palace to meet him.

This was not a happy occasion. On the contrary, it was a secret and scandal of the Protectorate.

As the saying went, family scandals should not be exposed.

There were many ways to punish Qin Che. It did not have to go to the imperial court.

Eunuch Fu smiled. “The old Duke Protector is a general with a straightforward personality.”

Emperor Jing Xuan shook his head and said, “He's not being straightforward. He's completely disregarding the reputation of the Protectorate. But it's true that he earned his military merits.

Why would he need that false reputation?”

Did Qin Canglan really not care about his reputation?

Not necessarily.

However, compared to the reputation of the Protectorate, he was more concerned about whether the children would suffer.

He had to make his stand clear from the beginning, not giving anyone any room for negotiation.

Even if Emperor Jing Xuan wanted to persuade him to think twice.

Eunuch Fu smiled and said, “It's also because he met a wise ruler like Your Majesty that he dares to be honest with you.”

Emperor Jing Xuan was amused by him. “This mouth of yours! It's not that Qin Canglan trusts me. He's ruthless, really ruthless. He abandoned the 'son' he raised for twenty years… Qin Che didn't just fake his identity. I conferred him the title of Protector Duke because he committed the crime of deceiving the emperor as Qin Canglan's legitimate son. I can sentence him to death. ”

Eunuch Fu said, “His Majesty won't do that.”

Emperor Jing Xuan sighed. “That's right. Qin Canglan can turn against his son, but I can't do the same to him. Back then, Qin Feng and his son followed the late emperor to the south and attacked the north. Qin Canglan was still young, and Qin Feng was the one accompanying the late emperor most of the time. Qin Feng and the late emperor went through life and death together. Before the late emperor died, he still remembered him and arranged a marriage for the two families. I can't kill Qin Feng's youngest son.”

Eunuch Fu said softly, “Your Majesty is benevolent.”

Emperor Jing Xuan mocked himself, “I'm just too benevolent. If I could have been as ruthless as Qin Canglan back then…”

Emperor Jing Xuan did not finish.

Eunuch Fu understood.

If His Majesty had been as ruthless as Qin Canglan back then and immediately eliminated King Nanyang after ascending the throne, how could there have been a rebellion plotted by King Nanyang later?

After washing up, Emperor Jing Xuan sat down and prepared to eat breakfast.

Eunuch Quan was also a favorite of His Majesty. He placed the dishes on the table and began to pick up food for Emperor Jing Xuan.

These dishes were naturally only presented after the young eunuch tried them.

Emperor Jing Xuan did not have a good appetite. He was almost full after eating some silver fungus lotus seed soup.

Emperor Jing Xuan said, “I remember that Qin Canglan said that his son changed his name to Su Cheng?”

Eunuch Fu hurriedly said, “Yes.”

Emperor Jing Xuan was puzzled. “He's not changing it back?”

Eunuch Fu smiled. “That's a name used by the commoners. After acknowledging his ancestors, he should change it back.”

Emperor Jing Xuan nodded and said, “Su Cheng has a daughter?”

Eunuch Fu said, “Yes. She's the same age as Qin Yanran and has a son. He's about the same age as Qin Yun. What a coincidence.”

An intriguing glint flashed across Emperor Jing Xuan's eyes.

Eunuch Fuls eyes moved, and he understood in a second.

If that fake Qin Che was not the real Duke Protector, Qin Yanran, as his daughter, would have a lower status.

Emperor Jing Xuan had issued a decree for the Third Prince to marry the eldest daughter of the Duke's Protector. Qin Yanran was no longer the same. Logically speaking, this marriage should fall on Su Cheng's daughter.

Eunuch Fu reminded, “Your Majesty, that daughter of the Su family… got married in the countryside.”

Disappointment flashed across Emperor Jing Xuan's eyes.

As Eunuch Quan served the emperor food, he smiled and said, “Your Majesty, I remember that Emperor Sage Ancestor's wife married someone among the common people and even had a daughter. However, after she entered the palace, she supported Emperor Sage Ancestor to expand his territory and settle down internally… Emperor Sage Ancestor conferred her as Empress Virtuous Ren. It's also a legend in our Great Zhou.”

Emperor Sage Ancestor was the founding emperor of the Great Zhou. This person had countless legends in his life. Marrying a woman who had been married as an empress was insignificant.

Emperor Jing Xuan's expression softened.

Seeing that his words had touched the emperor's heart, Eunuch Quan was extremely happy. “Emperor Sage Ancestor even brought Empress Virtuous Ren's daughter into the palace and made her a princess.”

Chapter 276

Along Pear Blossom Lane, Su Xiaoxiao lived next door to a family with the surname Zheng.

The old man was in his seventies and did not sleep much. It was still dark, but he had already woken up and was walking in the courtyard.

He vaguely heard the snort of a horse outside and felt strange. He quietly opened the door a crack and took a look.

A tall man had his hands in his sleeves and was squatting under the wall opposite. At first glance, he thought that a big black bear was squatting. Old Master Zheng was so frightened that his soul almost flew out!

This big black bear was none other than Qin Canglan, who had been waiting for half the night.

After Qin Canglan came out of the palace, he went to the Protectorate to instruct Steward Cen on a few things. Then, he went to the Qin family's horse farm.

He chose two high-grade Mongolian horses and came here without stopping.

There was no need to wait here. He could go home and rest. It would not matter if dawn came.

But he was unwilling.

In the past, he was not a person who was afraid of the ravages of birth, aging, illness, and death. He was already old and did not feel that he had many days left.

Ever since the children returned to the capital, he suddenly felt that his life was not enough.

It was as if… the past 30 years had been for nothing.

He could not start over in the next 30 years, so even if he could take a look, just a look was precious to him.

The alley was cold and damp after the rain, and the gout in his right hand acted up again.

He had painkillers on him. He didn't want to fall asleep and held back from eating.

Finally, at dawn, Su Xiaoxiao, who had finished making breakfast and snacks, planned to buy some vegetables at the market.

The weather gradually warmed up. Vegetables were not easy to store and were usually bought early every morning.

The moment the courtyard door opened, Qin Canglan stood up.

“Da, Daya… Hiss—”

His feet were numb.

Qin Canglan revealed a painful face.

Su Xiaoxiao looked at him strangely. “You've been here for a long time? Why didn't you knock?”

Qin Canglan grinned brightly. “No, I just arrived!”

It would be strange if he just came.

Su Xiaoxiao's gaze swept across him and the two tall horses. “Come in.”

Qin Canglan limped into the courtyard and led the two horses in.

The horse was prepared for Su Cheng and Su Ergou. He had observed that Su Ergou wanted to ride a horse last time.

“This is for you.”

Qin Canglan took out a brocade box that had been covered for a long time.

Su Xiaoxiao took it and opened it. There were three pairs of bracelets, one of tourmaline, one of seed suet jade, and the other of blood jade.

Other people gave bracelets one by one, but he stuffed six into a box. The box could barely be closed.

“I wonder what you like…” Qin Canglan was a little uneasy.

It was not difficult to guess what Su Ergou and Su Cheng liked. However, the little girl never seemed to be interested in anything.

He could not read his fat granddaughter.

He could only give her some greeting gifts according to the preferences of ordinary girls.

Hua Yin liked jewelry like this back then. She said that if she wasn't with him one day, she could sell them for money…

Coincidentally, Su Xiaoxiao thought so too.

Su Xiaoxiao accepted it without changing her expression and went to the kitchen to scoop a bowl of hot millet porridge for him.

Qin Canglan looked at the porridge on the table and was so touched that he almost cried.

It was just a box of bracelets, but his good granddaughter had made such a big bowl of porridge for him!

Su Xiaoxiao: “By the way,”

Su Xiaoxiao went to buy groceries, and Qin Canglan said that he could take care of the house.

Su Xiaoxiao didn't wake Su Ergou up.

Wei Ting was not around. He had gone out to cause trouble in the middle of the night.

The three little fellows woke up first. When they woke up, they saw Qin Canglan sitting at the door with a small stool.

The three of them did not treat him as an outsider. They carried their clothes and slipped out of bed, asking him to help them put on their clothes.

After ruining two sets of clothes, Qin Canglan finally dressed the three little ones… neatly.

Okay, it was almost neat—Xiaohu's pants were on the wrong side.

The three little ones only bullied Qin Canglan because he had just arrived and did not understand the market. They tricked Qin Canglan into feeding them.

After feeding them twice, the three little ones waved their small hands in shock and ran away!

Other people fed with spoons, and Qin Canglan fed with a ladle—

After Su Ergou woke up, he was dumbfounded to have his own horse. “Is it really for… for me?”

“Of course, it's for you!” Qin Canglan smiled and slapped his shoulder.

After slapping, Qin Canglan panicked!

The last time he patted Qin Yun like this, the latter lay on the bed for ten days..

Chapter 277

He wished he could chop off his claws.

Didn't he know how heavy his hands were?

Could Ergou take it?

Just as he was feeling vexed, he saw Su Ergou jump up!

“I have a horse! I have a horse! I can ride a horse!”

He ran around the courtyard without any internal injuries.

Shock flashed across Qin Canglan's eyes, followed by great pride and satisfaction.

This was his and Hua Yin's bloodline!

How tough!

“Come! I'll teach you how to ride a horse!” He was happy and patted Su Ergou again.

This time, he was a little excited and slapped Su Ergou to the ground…

Qin Canglan's expression changed. “Ergou!”

Su Ergou fainted on the spot for two seconds before standing up.

He was fine again.

Su Ergou had a horse, and so did Su Cheng.

His reaction was much calmer.

“In the past, when I was on an escort mission, I had also ridden horses. They were all high-grade warhorses. They were much stronger than your two horses.”

As he spoke, he calmly sat in the saddle and held the reins with both hands. “Look at your thin horse. How much can it run… Woo!”

The horse raised its front hooves and left the alley!

Su Cheng howled until his voice changed.

Qin Canglan brought his son and grandson to learn how to ride a horse. The three children puffed out their chests, indicating that they were also people with horses, a foal to be exact.

Qin Canglan laughed and brought the three little ones and the foal along.

In the afternoon, Su MO came over.

The matter of Su Ergou entering school had been resolved. Su Ergou would enter school next month, so Su MO planned to bring Su Ergou to familiarize himself with the environment first.

“They've all gone out to learn how to ride a horse,” Su Xiaoxiao said.

“Did they go out with Granduncle?” Su MO asked.

“Yes.” Su Xiaoxiao nodded.

Su MO sighed.

“What's wrong?” Su Xiaoxiao asked.

Su MO smiled helplessly. “Grandpa just instructed me to choose a few gentle horses this morning. He wanted to teach Uncle and Cousin how to ride after they recovered, but I didn't expect Granduncle to beat him to it.”

“By the way, Uncle and Cousin still don't know their background, right? When do you plan to tell them?”

Su Xiaoxiao thought for a moment and said, “Wait until my father can accept that memory.”

Acknowledging Qin Canglan would definitely trigger memories of Su Huayin.

Her father was already suffering. She didn't want to add to his pain.

At the mention of this, Su MO frowned slightly. “The murderer behind Grandaunt's death back then should be Ruan Xianglian, but Ruan Xianglian is already dead. Who poisoned my grandfather?”

“Xiangzi had a lover in the Duke's Protectorate. I once suspected Qin Che, but after thinking about it carefully, I realized that it was wrong. Qin Che probably didn't know that we had brought the real Duke back. He didn't break up with the Marquis of Zhenbei. My grandfather was his solid backing. He wouldn't cut off his own arm.”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Maybe what the vendor saw was just what others wanted him to see.”

Su Mo frowned and said, “Do you mean that Xiangzi's lover is not from the Protectorate at all? In fact, if you guess boldly, he doesn't have a lover!”

Su Xiaoxiao nodded. “The vendor saw Xiangzi talking to the servant of the Protectorate with his own eyes and saw him enter the Protectorate. However, what the two of them talked about was all Xiangzi's own words.”

Su MO's eyes turned cold. “Someone is framing the Protectorate!”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “This is the most reasonable deduction at the moment. The Qin and Su families are united. If we drive a wedge between you, who will benefit?”

Su MO pondered for a moment. “It's hard to say. The generals and civil servants might benefit from it.”

The two families were too powerful. Military power was the most obvious on the surface, but other than military power, there were also businesses under the two families and a huge network in the royal court.

Su Xiaoxiao continued, “In addition, we can't rule out enemies seeking revenge.”

At the mention of enemies, the first person Su MO thought of was… the Wei family.

He looked at Su Xiaoxiao, who was busy arranging the herbs, and swallowed his words.

The news that needed to be brought was delivered. There seemed to be no other reason to stay.

Su Mo paused and suddenly said, “Do you… want to see Ergou's academy?”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Alright, wait a moment. I'll put away the herbs.”

She carried a dustpan of herbs to the backyard.

Su MO casually glanced around and saw a bowl of walnuts on the table.

One by one, they were big and complete.

Su MO retracted his gaze and did not move.

Su MO continued to sit steadily.

Su MO was very calm.

Su MO reached out.

When Su Xiaoxiao came out, she saw that the bowl of walnuts on the table was gone. She exclaimed, “Do you see the walnuts here?”

“Really?” Su MO said without changing his expression. “I didn't see it.”

The two of them got into the carriage.

Su Mo had placed ajar of walnuts in the most obvious position.

The coachman couldn't bear to watch.

Su Ergou would be in the Directorate. It was not easy to become a student in the Directorate. Locally, one had to be qualified to be recommended. Not everyone could enter the young masters of the aristocratic families in the capital.

Spots were very scarce.

“How did Ergou enter?” Su Xiaoxiao asked.

Su MO said calmly, “I moved Fifth Brother's spot over to use it.”

Su Yuan had a total of five sons. Su Xiaoxiao had seen three so far—the eldest son, Su MO, the second son, Su Qi, and the third son, Su Yu.

Fourth and Fifth Brother had returned to their hometown with Old Madam Su to visit their relatives. It was said that they could only rush back next month.

“What about Fifth Brother?” Su Xiaoxiao asked. Su Mo: “Fifth Brother is older than you…”

Su MO said calmly, “He'll get in himself.”

If he couldn't get in, he could get lost. Just because they were born into a military family, it didn't they didn't have to study. The internal examination in the capital was very serious. The descendants of military generals studied, and the descendants of civil servants practiced martial arts.

There were actually many descendants of aristocratic families who were both skilled in civil and military domains..

Chapter 278

Su Mo looked at the Scholar Tower of the Imperial College. “It should be the youngest son of the Wei family.”

The Scholar's Tower was originally not called the Scholar's Tower. It was just an ordinary bookstore. It was because the youngest son of the Wei family often read inside. After he became the top scholar in high school, this building was renamed the Scholar's Tower.

The street that he had stayed on for a while before the exam also became Scholar Street.

How glorious was a 17-year-old top scholar?

When he was ten years old, he entered the palace to study with the Wei family. He was talented and dazzling, making all the princes and descendants pale in comparison. Even though the Wei family was once a subordinate of King Nanyang, and Emperor Jing Xuan had a grudge against the Wei family, he sincerely cherished Wei Ting.

In Emperor Jing Xuan's opinion, Wei Ting was different from the stubborn generals of the Wei family. He had the aloofness and talent of a scholar and was not easy to fight. He was a good seedling that he could carefully nurture.

However, he did not expect something to happen to the Wei family. In order to save his father, brother, and grandfather, Wei Ting resolutely put on his armor.

It was at that moment that Emperor Jing Xuan realized that he had misjudged all those years.

How could the Wei family nurture a weak scholar?

His youngest son, Wei Ting, was the one with the most hidden talent.

From then on, Emperor Jing Xuan became guarded against Wei Ting.

Su MO said earnestly, “The Wei family has too many enemies. It might not be a good thing for you to be related to him.”

“Did he save his family?” This was what Su Xiaoxiao was concerned about.

Su MO shook his head. “When he received the news, it was already too late. The entire Wei family died in battle. Old General Wei's head was decapitated and hung on the city tower for more than a month. It was not until Wei Ting broke the snow pass and arrived at the city to take back the city that he took Old General Wei's frozen head.”

“I heard that Wei Ting personally sewed Old General Wei's head up.”

It was snowing heavily. The young man, who had just turned 18, knelt alone in the snow and stitched his grandfather's corpse up.

No one knew how much hatred and pain the young man had experienced at that moment.

“Some of his father and brother's corpses are seriously damaged, and some… can't even be found… After that, the youngest son of the Wei family seemed to have become a different person.”

The world had seen many of his arrogant, despotic, and unruly appearances. They gradually forgot that he was once the high-spirited scholar who rode the streets and smiled.

Su Xiaoxiao was silent.

After a while, she asked softly, “Has he… ever been depressed?”

“No.” Su MO did not admire many people in his life, but he took his hat off to the youngest son of the Wei family.

This person could die a heroic death and be severely injured, but he would never be depressed.

Even if he only had his last breath, he had to stand upright, tall, and far. Above ten thousand people, he had to raise his head and breathe.

He had once brazenly said that if he was sad, he would make everyone suffer.

Su MO sighed. “I'm not telling you this to share Wei Ting's past with you. I hope you can consider your relationship with Wei Ting carefully. Anyway, you're a fake couple. There's still room for redemption.”

Su Xiaoxiao became vigilant. “Who did you hear that from?”

Su MO hesitated for a moment before confessing truthfully. “Su Yuniang sent a letter.”

Su Xiaoxiao's almond-shaped eyes widened. “Yuniang wrote to you?”

What kind of progress was this?

Su MO pulled open the secret compartment under the table and took out a few letters. “These are for you. The last one is for me. You can read it too.”

What did he mean that she could read it too? Was that the point?

Su Xiaoxiao crossed her arms and said with a serious expression, “When did you two hook up? Tell me the truth!”

Su MO choked.

What kind of words were these?

Before Su MO left, he quietly took Old Master Su and Su Dalang away. At the same time, he found Su Yuniang and left his contact information.

He hoped that Su Yuniang would write to him if she remembered or obtained any clues related to the past.

At the same time, if she wanted to contact his cousin, she could send it through him.

That was all.

Su Yuniang mainly wrote to Su Xiaoxiao and wrote one to Su MO on the side. She was worried that Su Xiaoxiao would be bullied in the capital, so she told Su MO in the letter that the couple was a fake couple. If Wei Ting treated Su Daya badly, he had to find a more handsome one for her. That girl was infatuated and only liked good-looking men.

There were a few typos in the letter, but for Su Yuniang, it was already a huge improvement.

Su Yuniang's letter to Su Xiaoxiao was much noisier.

She wrote a lot, not minding that her handwriting was ugly. She wrote about matters from village to town, from the Su family to Jin Ji..

Chapter 279

Su Xiaoxiao looked at Su Mo. “So Old Master Su was brought to the capital by you.”

The Su family became street rats. The villagers scolded them three times a day, and the land that was originally given to them was all taken back by the village head.

“Liu Ping found a few craftsmen to realize the blueprint you left behind last time. He plowed the ground very quickly with it.”

“It's been two months. One day, I heard her call me Mother.”

Su Xiaoxiao smiled. How could a two-month-old child call her mother? Su Yuniang could brag.

“I have good news for you. Jin Ji can't continue. I took advantage of the situation and bought Jin Ji.”

“When I wrote to you, your big Blackie had been barking at the side. I suspected that it was scolding you. I decided to reward it with two carrots tonight.”

“Blackie is that donkey.”

She even gave the donkey a name.

There was no literary writing in Su Yuniang's letter. It was all vernacular. It was not difficult for Su Xiaoxiao to imagine a certain rich woman's smug expression.

“Sister Wu and Liu Ping asked me to greet you. Sister Zhao and Xiaoyong greet you. Manager Sun greets you… There are too many names. Think about it yourself. You don't have to reply to them.”

It meant she had to reply to Yuniang.

Little Wu became a chef and did many things that many women would not dare to do in their lives. She even took in three disciples.

Her disciples were not as smart as her. She wanted to write to Su Xiaoxiao to tell her this.

Su Yuniang said generously, “There's no need. I'll help you write it. Whatever you want to say, I'll write it all in the letter. Two letters will cost money.”

Little Wu thought that it made sense, so she said it for almost an hour.

She would never have thought that Su Yuniang would write two words: hello.

The Imperial College was indeed the largest academy in the capital. It occupied an extremely wide area and its buildings were antique. There were pavilions, carved beams, and painted buildings. Everywhere exuded the nobility of the Imperial City.

In terms of the environment, Su Xiaoxiao was satisfied.

It was not far.

“First of next month?” Su Xiaoxiao confirmed with Su MO again.

“It's the first day of the new year,” Su MO said. “I'll prepare the carriage.”

Su Xiaoxiao thought for a moment and didn't refuse.

It was rare for the weather to clear today. Qin Canglan brought Su Cheng and the others to ride horses on the horse farm. As they rode, they forgot the time. On the other hand, Wei Ting arrived home first.

He went to the kitchen first.

At this time, Su Xiaoxiao would most likely be cooking.

However, today, there was no one in the kitchen.

His eyes moved. Just as he turned around, he saw Su Xiaoxiao push open the door and come out of the house.

She wore her hair in a simple bun and tied the pearl headband that Su Cheng had given her.

The headband was very cheap, but her temperament was not cheap. It was surprisingly exquisite and beautiful on her head.

Her facial features were exquisite, coupled with a pair of cold eyes, she always looked fierce in Wei Ting's eyes even though she had a cute, round face..

Like… a proud little fat peacock. “I'm not cooking tonight. I'm going out to eat.”

A certain little fat peacock said.

“Okay.” Wei Ting had no objections. He looked around and asked, “Where are Dad and Ergou?” Su Xiaoxiao said, “They went out to play. They're not back yet. They should have eaten outside.” If they went out with Qin Canglan, they would definitely not go hungry.

Su Xiaoxiao looked at the tiredness between his eyebrows and asked, “Have you… not slept all night? Do you want to rest for a while? I just ate. I'm not too hungry.” Gulp…

Her disappointing stomach betrayed her little fat master in a second!

What a traitor!

Wei Ting's lips curled up.

The two of them arrived at Scholar Street.

Knowing that this street was named after the man beside her, Su Xiaoxiao felt different again.

“What are you looking for?” Wei Ting asked.

“No, I'm just taking a look.” Su Xiaoxiao said, “What do you want to eat?”

She thought that Wei Ting would say anything. After all, ordinary men would answer like this.

Unexpectedly, Wei Ting said as if he knew everything, “Roasted pork with rock sugar, sweet and sour fish, spicy chicken, and a bowl of walnut, osmanthus, and lotus root powder.”

Su Xiaoxiao drooled.

No way, why were they all her favorite dishes?

Was he going to let her lose weight?

Su Xiaoxiao had just weighed herself the day before. She weighed 145 catties.

She lost the most weight in the first two months, at 20 catties a month. In the third month, she slowed down slightly. Otherwise, if she continued to lose weight so suddenly, her body would easily have problems.

She subscribed to scientific weight loss and a reasonable diet.

“I'm just teasing you,” Wei Ting said coldly. “I'll take you somewhere.”

“Where?” Su Xiaoxiao asked.

“You'll know when you get there.”

Wei Ting brought Su Xiaoxiao to a lake in the capital.

Green waves rippled as beautiful pleasure boats docked on the shore.

Wei Ting chose a small pleasure boat called Pearl Pavilion.

From the outside, the Pearl Pavilion was not too outstanding. It only had one floor. The Exquisite Pavilion and the Jade Pavilion on the left and right were both towering and taller than it.

In addition, the other pleasure boats more or less carried a little wind and music. The pipa, zither, flute… were endless.

Only Pearl Pavilion was cold, like a small workshop seeking survival in the cracks.

The boss was an uncle in his forties. His son helped him cook, and his wife served the guests and received orders. There were no hired waiters.

The boss seemed to know Wei Ting. The moment he saw him, he immediately beamed. “Young Master Wei, you're here?”

Wei Ting nodded slightly and stepped onto the bow. Then, he turned around and extended his hand to Su Xiaoxiao.

Su Xiaoxiao didn't expect him to be so gentlemanly and considerate. She had already stepped out domineeringly.

Wei Ting's hand froze in midair, and so did her feet.

The atmosphere was a little awkward.

Her eyes darted around.

“Aiya…” She retracted her foot and leaned her chubby body on Wei Ting's arm. “I'm a little seasick. ”

Wei Ting was speechless.

The boss was speechless..

Chapter 280

Wei Ting helped the “sick” Su Xiaoxiao onto the ship.

The two of them sat down by the window.

The boss of the pleasure boat smiled and served tea. He said to Wei Ting, “The bass is fattening now. The two of you came at the right time. Two big basses just arrived in the morning.”

“Bass is their signature dish.” Wei Ting placed the filtered tea beside Su Xiaoxiao and brought her cup to her. “Steamed is the best. Stewed soup is not bad either.”

The boss of the pleasure boat looked at Wei Ting's actions with surprise.

Su Xiaoxiao rested her chin on her hands and watched Wei Ting make tea.

“Then let's have a steamed one.”

He was good-looking and his hands were good-looking.

It was pleasing to the eye.

The boss of the pleasure boat smiled and glanced at the couple, unable to hide the smile in his eyes.

“What are you smiling at?” Wei Ting asked.

The boss of the pleasure boat could not help but laugh. “This is the first time I've seen Young Master Wei so happy.”

Su Xiaoxiao said strangely, “Is he? How can I tell that he's happy? He keeps a straight face all day as if someone owes him money.”

Wei Ting snorted.

The owner of the pleasure boat did not disturb the two of them anymore and smiled as he prepared the food.

Su Xiaoxiao had nothing to do. She walked around the pleasure boat and met the lady boss who was wiping the railing.

The lady boss was a talkative woman and was more talkative than the boss of the pleasure boat.

From her, Su Xiaoxiao learned that Wei Ting was a frequent guest of this pleasure boat. As long as Wei Ting was in the capital, he would come once or twice a month.

Gradually, everyone knew that this pleasure boat was under the protection of the youngest son of the Wei family. No one dared to cause trouble anymore.

Su Xiaoxiao exclaimed, “What does it mean that no one dares to cause trouble again? Could it be that someone has caused trouble in the past?”

“Yes,” the lady boss said with a smile. “It happened a few years ago. My man and I aren't local to the Imperial City. We spent all the savings we had saved up over the years and bought this pleasure boat from someone else.”

They came with beautiful expectations, but unfortunately, business was never as simple as it seemed.

Without power or influence, it was almost impossible to snatch business from a bunch of people with connections.

In particular, their dishes tasted really good and there were many repeat customers, so it made people even more jealous.

Su Xiaoxiao thought of the days when she fought with Jin Ji in town. It was not difficult to imagine their situation.

“Once, a few guests came up to the pleasure boat and ordered a large table of good dishes. We were overjoyed and thought that there was a big business coming. In the end, halfway through, one of the guests collapsed. They insisted that our food was unclean and someone died after eating it. They raised their weapons and wanted to smash our pleasure boat.”

“What happened next?” Su Xiaoxiao asked.

The lady boss looked in the direction of the room. Wei Ting seemed to be drinking tea casually, but the lady boss had long noticed that his gaze had never left this little fat girl.

The lady boss smiled and said, “Young Master Wei was also on the boat at that time. He wasn't with those people. He was in the next room with a friend. He came out to help us out.”

She said it casually, but the scene back then was not so easy.

There was also a considerable force behind that group of people.

Wei Ting was not afraid of them, but there was really no need to offend them for two unfamiliar commoners.

Su Xiaoxiao raised her eyebrows. “He's very righteous!”

Alright, she would give him respect outside.

In the room, Wei Ting drank tea and smiled.

Su Xiaoxiao learned from the lady boss that she was the first girl he had brought over. The lady boss had never seen any girl beside him.

Su Xiaoxiao muttered to herself, “That's right. There's no other woman. He already has three sons. ”

The bass was steamed.

Su Xiaoxiao returned to the room.

The boss of the pleasure boat chose a larger bass. The fish scales, gills, and internal organs were removed very cleanly. He used yellow wine and ginger slices to remove the fishy smell. The taste of the soup was not strong, and it preserved the freshness of the fish to the greatest extent.

Su Xiaoxiao took a bite and was stunned.

Wei Ting picked up the tenderest fish belly and placed it in her bowl.

Usually, at home, she would give the three children the fish belly.

Su Xiaoxiao didn't reject someone's feeding and buried her head in her food.

The fish meat was really fresh.

She couldn't tell that this guy was quite the food connoisseur.

Not long after, the boss served another bowl of hot sour soup fishballs.

Tiny ginger grains could be tasted in the fishballs. They were spicy. This milky white fishball was mixed with a small amount of fat and starch. The gravy was extremely tender. The only flaw was that it was a little greasy.

However, with the spicy ginger grains and the white vinegar soup, the greasy taste was instantly gone.

She could make a basin of such fishballs!

The boss of the pleasure boat had seen many rich young ladies who refused to eat much. This was the first time he had met someone who really came to eat. He was excited. Not only did he steam fish cakes and slices of fish, but he also set up a grill and made a plate of grilled fish.

“Do you have vegetables?” Wei Ting asked.

“Yes, yes, yes!” The boss of the pleasure boat stir-fried two side dishes and cut the melons and fruits. In the end, he even served his unique secret fruit brew.

This kind of fruit brew was very difficult to make. He only produced two small jars every year and did not sell them.

He was not selling the fruit brew today.

“It's for the two of you,” he said with a smile.

Wei Ting said, “Why didn't you send it in the past?”

The boss of the pleasure boat said awkwardly, “Uh… isn't Mrs. Wei here…”

This was the first time Su Xiaoxiao had been called Mrs. Wei. She was stunned.

“Oh,” Wei Ting muttered vaguely. In the end, he did not mind that the boss of the pleasure boat was only willing to offer wine today.

The fruit wine tasted sweet and greasy.

When Su Xiaoxiao was on her third sip, Wei Ting took the wine cup.

Su Xiaoxiao was dissatisfied. “What?” Wei Ting said calmly, “You can't drink anymore.”

Su Xiaoxiao asked in confusion, “Why?”

Wei Ting hesitated for a moment before saying, “You drank too much last time.”

Su Xiaoxiao snorted. “So what if I drank too much? Did I do anything to you?”

Wei Ting said nothing.

Su Xiaoxiao blinked. “No way… Did I really do something to you?”

She had no impression of it at all!

After transmigrating, she had only drunk once, and she had been tricked by Su Yuniang then…

Wei Tings eyes flickered.

Alright, Su Xiaoxiao had an answer.

Su Xiaoxiao leaned back in her chair in disappointment. “It's too much of a loss… I'm at a disadvantage…'

Wei Ting was confused. “What did you lose?”

He was the one who was taken advantage of. Shouldn't he be the one at a disadvantage?

Su Xiaoxiao said bitterly, “When you eat something, you have to taste if it's salty or bland. I clearly did something to you, but I don't remember. Don't you think this is a loss?

Wei Ting paused and silently returned her glass.

Su Xiaoxiao was speechless.

The fruit brew made by the boss of the pleasure boat was not really strong wine. It was similar to old rice wine. Su Xiaoxiao was still as sober as before after three cups.

The boss of the pleasure boat came over to ask how the two of them were eating. Su Xiaoxiao was extremely satisfied.

Wei Ting said calmly, “The fruit brew isn't good.”

The boss of the pleasure boat was dumbfounded.. What was wrong? Wasn't your wife drinking quite well?

Chapter 281

The scenery on the lake was uniquely good.

The two of them came to the deck to admire the lake and mountains in the capital.

“I didn't know the scenery in the capital was so beautiful.”

She had been in the capital for half a month and the furthest she had been was the Protector Duke's Estate. Although the scenery of the mansion was also pleasant, it could not compare to the natural lake scenery.

She rested her elbows on the railing and quietly enjoyed this moment of silence.

Wei Ting stood beside her expressionlessly.

Su Xiaoxiao leaned on the railing and took a step up.

Wei Ting subconsciously moved closer to her.

Su Xiaoxiao exclaimed, “Wei Ting, look, there's fish!”

Wei Ting replied indifferently, “Yes.”

Su Xiaoxiao continued, 'Was the fish we ate caught from the lake?”

Wei Ting said, “I fished across the lake.”

There were too many people here, and the fish had long been frightened away. If he wanted the fattest and most tender fish, he had to go to a place with fewer people to fish.

Wei Ting looked nonchalant, but he responded to everything Su Xiaoxiao said, even if his tone was very cold.

The wind blowing from the lake was mixed with coldness.

“Achoo!”

Su Xiaoxiao sneezed.

Wei Ting turned around and entered the room.

At this moment, a loud thud suddenly came from not far away, followed by a panicked scream.

“Ah! Not good! Someone fell into the water!”

“Help!”

The owner of the pleasure boat, who was halfway through killing the fish, also heard the commotion and quickly ran out with a kitchen knife.

The chubby girl who had previously said sweetly that she was a little seasick lifted her skirt and stepped on the railing domineeringly. She jumped forward and smashed… Uh no, jumped into the water!

It was a young man who fell into the water.

She grabbed the other party and threw him back onto the deck of the pleasure boat like a sack.

Someone exclaimed.

In her previous life, Su Xiaoxiao was extremely good at swimming, and so was this body. What held her back was the heavy clothes on her body, which had become several times heavier after soaking in water.

On the pleasure boat, a kind-hearted person pointed at Su Xiaoxiao, who was swimming upstream in the lake, and shouted, “Quick, quick, quick! Give that good man a helping hand!”

Su Xiaoxiao, who thought she was a soft girl, was speechless.

No one could be blamed for this. Little Su's small actions were too fast. Before everyone could see who it was, they heard a loud bang. A huge wave rose from the lake, causing the pleasure boat to sway.

If Su Xiaoxiao hadn't thrown the young man into the boat, they would have thought that someone… had fallen into the water.

Su Xiaoxiao rejected the bamboo pole!

Wei Ting really did not expect that a certain someone would fall into the water just as he went to the room to get a cloak.

Fortunately, Wei Ting's strength was powerful. He tapped his toes and swept across the water like a sandgull, picking Su Xiaoxiao up. The two of them landed on the deck of the pleasure boat next door.

“Aiya! Someone died…' “Is there a physician?”

“Young man! Wake up!”

The kind guests on the pleasure boat surrounded the young lad who had been rescued.

The young man's face was pale and he was unconscious.

The boatman realized that something was wrong and hurriedly sent a waiter to the medical center to get a physician.

However, the nearest medical center was also two miles away. Who knew if he could make it in time…

The boatman was worried.

If a life was lost on his ship, how could he do business in the future?

To the east, another pleasure boat slowly approached. It was different from the pleasure boats on the shore that were actually a few floating restaurants. This was a really luxurious ship that could travel freely on the entire lake. There were two floors, as if an exquisite small attic had been built on the ship. In a room on the second floor, Princess Hui An noticed the commotion on the other side.

She rarely had the chance to leave the palace. Today, she had begged her brother for a long time before he agreed to bring her to the ship.

“Third Brother! Look! Something seems to have happened over there!”

The news of Jingning teaching the young profligate in the capital a lesson had already spread to the palace. Everyone was secretly praising Jingning for being upright and punishing evil. She had the demeanor of the Great Zhou's first princess.

Princess Hui An was very unconvinced.

“Did someone get bullied?”

Hmph, she also wanted to help when she saw injustice! She was better compared to Jingning!

Changping ran outside and craned his neck to take a look. “I think someone is drowning… They're calling for a physician…”

They were accompanied by Imperial Physician Hu's grandson, Hu Hui.

The Hu family had practiced medicine for generations. When it came to Hu Hui's generation, although the imperial examination was their main goal, they had been influenced at home since they were young and more or less knew a little. Usually, in the Directorate, if anyone had a headache or fever, they could get a prescription from Hu Hui without hiring a doctor.

Xiao Zhonghua looked at Hu Hui. “Do you know how to treat someone who drowned?”

Hu Hui cupped his hands. “I've treated a few cases with Grandpa.”

Princess Hui An immediately said, “Then quickly save that person! Remember, I asked you to go!”

Hu Hui bowed to her. “Yes.”

Xiao Zhonghua said to Jing Yi, “Take Young Master Hu over.”

Jing Yi grabbed Hu Hui's shoulder and brought him to the pleasure boat.

However, the two of them were a step late.

Someone was already saving the drowning victim.

Su Xiaoxiao knelt beside him. She was wet and her eyes were watery. She felt very uncomfortable.

Ignoring the tears of pain in her eyes, she crossed her hands and pressed hard on the other party's chest.

Hu Hui frowned. Seeing that the person administering resuscitation was a woman, his frown deepened. He strode over. 'What are you doing? Get out of the way!”

Wei Ting looked at Hu Hui coldly.

Hu Hui's eyebrows twitched!

Lord… Lord Wei?!

Wei Ting was also a student of the Directorate in his early years. In terms of seniority, Hu Hui should call him senior.

However, Wei Ting had long entered the court as an official. When Hu Hui saw him, he had to respectfully address him as Lord Wei or General Wei.

On the other side, Jing Yi was also very surprised.

However, he was not surprised by Wei Ting. After all, he had long known that Wei Ting had returned to the capital.

He recognized Su Xiaoxiao, who was saving the drowning person.

He stood rooted to the ground, his eyes filled with disbelief.

Su Xiaoxiao was so focused on saving the patient that she did not notice Jing Yi coming over.

Drowning was not the worst-case scenario. His heart had stopped.

She let the patient lie flat on the deck, pulled open the patient's collar, took off the patient's belt, and knelt on both knees again, riding the patient. This posture… attracted a wave of criticism from the surrounding people. “I thought you were a man, but you're a girl.”

“The girl took off a man's pants in public and… and even did such an unbearable thing in public. It's really humiliating!”

“Yes, it's outrageous!”

They seemed to have forgotten that Su Xiaoxiao had risked her life to save him.

In ancient times, where reputation was greater than the sky and women had a low status, Su Xiaoxiao's actions could be said to have challenged everyone's bottom line.

The reason why no one went forward to tear her apart and throw her into the water was all because of Wei Ting.

Everyone's discussion made Hu Hui come back to his senses.

His expression turned solemn as he said to Wei Ting, “Lord Wei! Hurry up and
stop her! The patient drowned.. She'll kill someone like this!”

Chapter 282

Wei Ting spoke.

It was not directed at Hu Hui, but at Su Xiaoxiao.

“Do your thing.”

Hu Hui was shocked. “Lord Wei!”

Wei Ting ignored him and did not even look at him.

Wei Ting was famous for being arrogant in the capital. Hu Hui was not surprised that he treated him coldly.

Surprisingly, he had been protecting that woman.

Hu Hui did not think that the two of them knew each other.

No matter how bad Wei Ting's reputation was in the capital, no one dared to say that he was a playboy. Moreover, even if he was really a playboy, he would not take a fancy to an inconspicuous fat girl.

Seeing that he could not persuade Wei Ting, Hu Hui turned around and placed his hopes on Jing Yi. “Young Marquis Jing! A human life is at stake. If we delay any longer, that person will really die!”

“That's not how you save people from drowning!”

Everyone present was afraid of Wei Ting, but Young Marquis Jing would not be.

Young Marquis Jing was also a fearless person.

However, something unexpected happened.

Jing Yi didn't move.

Hu Hui thought that his words were not convincing enough and continued, “Grandpa and I have treated a few drowning patients. Grandpa said that if there are signs of unconsciousness after drowning, we have to think of a way to expel the water from the patient's stomach… It's best to let the patient lie down and stand upside down. Although lying flat and pressing is one of the methods, the place she pressed is wrong!”

Drowning was to expel the water from the stomach. This chubby girl had pressed on the heart.

Moreover, she had taken off his clothes… It was too immoral!

Hu Hui did not even look at her.

“Who is this young master?” A middle-aged man in the crowd asked curiously.

Not far away, a young scholar said, “He's the young master of the Hu family, Imperial Physician Hu's biological grandson!”

“The grandson of an imperial physician?

“He's not an ordinary imperial physician. Imperial Physician Hu is the most experienced medical officer in the Imperial Hospital. I heard that he's about to take over the hospital!”

The reputation of the Imperial Physician Hu was already well-known. Imperial

Physician Hu was the cream of the crop in the medical world!

His grandson's words would definitely not be wrong.

This girl was really harming people!

Hu Hui said, “Young Marquis, you're not a doctor. You might not understand.

Believe me…”

“Shut up,” Jing Yi said.

Hu Hui was stunned again, thinking that he had heard wrongly.

Hu Hui stammered, “Young Marquis Jing…

Jing Yi said coldly, “I told you to shut up. Didn't you hear me?”

Hu Hui looked at him and then at Su Xiaoxiao, who had increased the pressure.

“But… he's really going to die… this girl… she'll kill…”

Before Hu Hui could finish, the patient lying on the deck suddenly opened his eyes and took a deep breath.

Then, he coughed violently!

Everyone was dumbfounded.

This, this, this, this person was really alive?

Could he be a zombie?!

Eh!

Everyone felt their blood run cold and took three to four steps back!

Su Xiaoxiao let out a long sigh.

She was tired.

She had already exhausted her stamina underwater and saved him after coming ashore. Her chubby body could not hold on anymore.

Hu Hui looked at the patient who had completely recovered in disbelief, then at Su Xiaoxiao. “You… you pressed that position… How is that possible…”

Su Xiaoxiao turned around and glanced at Hu Hui.

Hu Hui was stunned.

He did not expect a fat girl to have such an exquisite and cute face.

Su Xiaoxiao didn't hide anything and said to Hu Hui, “Before you came, I had already cleaned his nose and mouth and pressed out the water in his stomach, but he drowned too badly and a cardiac arrest was triggered.”

Su Xiaoxiao performed CPR on him, which was why Hu Hui saw this scene.

Hu Hui said, “You… you're talking nonsense! How can someone survive when their heart isn't beating?

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Cardiac arrest can't be used as a basis for determining death. ”

Clinically, many patients with cardiac arrest could recover their heartbeats after resuscitation.

Hu Hui was from a medical family and had never heard such a fallacy.

They didn't get along.

Su Xiaoxiao couldn't be bothered to waste her breath on him.

The patient kept thanking her.

Seeing his clothes and appearance, Su Xiaoxiao gave up the idea of asking him for consultation fees and stood up to leave.

Suddenly, a clean handkerchief was handed over.

No, there was one handkerchief from each side.

Su Xiaoxiao looked left and glanced right.

Uh…

“Jingyi, you're here?” She smiled.

Wei Ting's face darkened.

Jing Yi said, “Wipe it.”

Hu Hui was dumbfounded.

Was he seeing things?

Had Young Marquis Jing and General Wei handed a handkerchief to a fat girl at the same time?

Wait, she called Young Marquis Jing by his name…

They knew each other?!

Su Xiaoxiao blinked.

What a strange feeling.

It was as if there was a fire in the backyard.

bluvv1Y. To the left.

Jing Yi's eyes darkened.

To the right.

Wei Ting's handsome face darkened.

She took a deep breath and reached out with both hands to grab the two handkerchiefs.

“I'm fat! One handkerchief isn't enough!”

Wei Ting snorted coldly. “Hmph.”

Jing Yi took out another handkerchief and said softly, “If it's not enough, I still have more.”

Su Xiaoxiao's inner thoughts were: Aiyaya, the little puppy is still the obedient one! My heart is about to melt!

Under Wei Ting's murderous aura, Su Xiaoxiao did not take the handkerchief from Jing Yi.

She had long guessed that the two of them knew each other. Seeing them today, it was indeed so.

Although the two of them did not communicate, she was not stupid.

Jing Yi was clearly at odds with Wei Ting.

The little boy had some story going on.

“Let's go home,” Wei Ting said calmly.

Hu Hui doubted his life again.

With whom was he going home?

Young… Young Marquis Jing?

Could it be that the two of them were actually in love and killing each other…

In the next second, his imagination dissipated.

Su Xiaoxiao nodded and stood up reluctantly before following him.

Looking at the two of them leave together, Hu Hui was dumbfounded.

Back on the pleasure boat.

Princess Hui An could not hide her excitement as she looked at the two of them. “How is it? How is it? Did you save her?”

Jing Yi said nothing.

Hu Hui replied, “He… was saved.”

Princess Hui An smiled. “When I go back, I'll immediately report this to Father! I'll see how arrogant Jingning can be!”

“What's wrong?” Xiao Zhonghua noticed that something was wrong with the two of them.

Hu Hui looked like he wanted to say something but hesitated. Jing Yi was too strange and his mood became very bad.

Hu Hui hesitated for a moment before telling the truth about what had happened on the pleasure boat. “We weren't the ones who saved her. It was… It was a maidservant of the Wei family.”

The women who could go home with Wei Ting had to be either a Madam or maidservant of the Wei family.

How could that fat girl be the former?

“She's not a maid!” Jing Yi said coldly.

Princess Hui An looked at Jing Yi strangely.

Xiao Zhonghua's meaningful gaze landed on Jing Yi's handsome face.

After a while, he took a sip of tea. “Was Wei Ting around?”

Hu Hui quickly said, “Yes, yes!”

Strange, how did Third Prince know?

Princess Hui An quickly stood up.. “I want to find him!”

Chapter 283

Princess Hui An went to look for him.

However, when she arrived at the place of the accident, Wei Ting had already left. He was neither on the pleasure boat where the person was saved nor in the Pearl Pavilion next door.

“I'm so angry!”

Princess Hui An stomped her feet.

The news of Wei Ting becoming a monk in the throne room could be said to have spread like wildfire in the capital. This time, he returned to the capital in a low profile, and not many people knew about it.

The emperor did not immediately let him return to the court, probably to warn him.

After this incident, Wei Ting's whereabouts could probably not be hidden anymore.

After returning to Pear Blossom Alley, Wei Ting asked Su Xiaoxiao to return to her room to change her clothes.

“I'll boil the water.”

With that, he turned and entered the kitchen.

The weather in the capital was very strange. It didn't look cold. When she went into the water, she was so cold that she felt prickly.

She was busy saving that man just now and did not care that she was cold. Only when she got into the carriage did she start to shiver.

She took off her wet clothes and wrapped herself in a thick blanket.

After Wei Ting boiled hot water, he made a brazier and sent it in.

Su Xiaoxiao took a comfortable hot bath.

Wei Ting went to make ginger soup.

If Matriarch Wei knew about her grandson's series of actions, she would most likely be frightened silly.

Did this spoiled brat actually know how to take care of others?

It was Wei Ting's first time cooking ginger soup. It was a little burnt and the taste was not flattering.

Looking at the blisters on his fingertips, Su Xiaoxiao sniffed and finished the ginger soup in her bowl.

After she rested, Wei Ting returned to his room.

In the middle of the night, Wei Ting was worried and came over to see her again.

Su Xiaoxiao was still sick.

When she was bedridden after that time on the mountain, she was poisoned, so strictly speaking, this was Su Xiaoxiao's first illness after coming to this world. Her forehead was hot, and her face flushed, but her hands and feet were cold.

Su Xiaoxiao wrapped herself tightly in the blanket and rubbed her forehead against Wei Ting's palm. 'Wei Ting, I'm so cold.”

Wei Ting frowned slightly and opened the cabinet. There were no more blankets, so he went next door, took his blanket, and covered Su Xiaoxiao.

“Are you still cold?” he asked.

“Yes.” Su Xiaoxiao nodded with a pale face.

The little fat peacock, who was s valiant in the day, became listless. Wei Ting wrapped the blanket tightly around her. “I'll get a physician!”

Su Xiaoxiao said in a low voice, “No need. I'm a physician myself. There's medicine in the first aid kit. Help me take it out.”

“Yes, this?” Wei Ting took out the first aid kit from the small basket.

He often saw her taking medicine from here. It turned out to be called a first aid kit.

Su Xiaoxiao replied weakly, “There's a thermometer in the first pocket on the second floor. Give it to me.”

Wei Ting used a thermometer and knew what it looked like. He took it out and handed it to her.

Su Xiaoxiao didn't know, but she was shocked. It was 39-5 degrees. No wonder she felt weak.

Wei Ting took out a small white tablet. “Are you going to eat this?”

When Xiaohu's canine teeth were in pain and caused a fever, he had taken this medicine.

Su Xiaoxiao nodded. Wei Ting asked, “How many?”

Su Xiaoxiao replied, “Two.”

Wei Ting took two pills, put the bottle back, and went to the kitchen to pour warm water.

Su Xiaoxiao lay on the bed obediently and widened her black eyes. No one knew what she was looking at.

Xiaohu was also like this when he was feverish.

“Medicine,” Wei Ting said.

After a while, Su Xiaoxiao shook her head slowly. “No.”

Wei Ting said, “You're a doctor. Are you not taking medicine when you're sick?”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “I'm not anymore.” She was a patient.

What kind of childish tone was this?

She must have been confused by the fever…

Wei Ting sat down on the bed. “What will it take for you to take the medicine?” Su Xiaoxiao said nothing.

Wei Ting looked at her deeply. “You don't want me to feed you mouth to mouth, do you?”

Su Xiaoxiao turned around and looked at him in shock. “So you want to feed me mouth to mouth?”

Wei Ting wondered how it became what he wanted.

In the end, Su Xiaoxiao sat up and took the medicine.

She had taken the medicine, but she refused to sleep again. Her eyes were as wide as copper bells. Wei Ting looked at her strangely. “Aren't you sleepy?”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Sleepy.”

Wei Ting said, “Why aren't you sleeping?” Su Xiaoxiao said stubbornly, “I won't sleep.”

Wei Ting was helpless. “What's wrong this time?”

Su Xiaoxiao said seriously, “There's a calming component in the medicine. If I fall asleep, what if you plot against me? I definitely won't wake up.”

It was already so late, but Father Su and the children were still not back. They were probably going to spend the night outside.

Only the two of them were left in the house.

Did this girl think he would take the opportunity to do something to her?

Wei Ting sneered. “I really want to do something to you. I can still do it if Father and Ergou are at home. Must I pick a time when you're sick? According to you, this medicine… You would have already fallen asleep… What's the point?”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Who knows? Perhaps you like it.”

Wei Ting was speechless.

Su Xiaoxiao was so sleepy that she yawned and refused to close her eyes obediently.

Wei Ting was also convinced.

He extinguished the oil lamp on the table, lifted the blanket , and lay down.

Su Xiaoxiao complained, “You really can't wait!”

Wei Ting stretched out his arm and pulled her into his arms. “Yes, I can't wait to plot against you, so quickly fall asleep.”

Su Xiaoxiao snuggled into his arms and leaned her head against his chest. She found a comfortable position and snorted. “I knew it!”

Wei Ting's lips curled up.

Wei Ting hugged her and pressed his cold chin against her burning forehead.

“Sleep.”

Su Xiaoxiao reached out her chubby claws and touched his tight eight-pack. She fell asleep in satisfaction.

It drizzled again during the night.

Jing Yi stood at the entrance of Pear Blossom Alley for a long time.

Bai Ze came over with an umbrella and raised it above his head. “Young Marquis, go back.”

Jing Yi was drenched in the rain, and the rain slid down his handsome face.

“Bai Ze, why did she come to the capital?” “This… I don't know.”

“Is Wei Ting planning to marry her?”

They investigated the matters in the countryside and roughly figured out the ins and outs.

Wei Ting was chased by the Third Prince's subordinates and was seriously injured. He was picked up by Miss Su's father, Su Cheng.

Coincidentally, Miss Su had just been dumped by a scholar from the neighboring village.

Hence, Su Cheng made Wei Ting his live-in son-in-law.

Wei Ting needed to recuperate and avoid the pursuit of the Third Prince. He needed a cover-up identity and being the “live-in son-in-law” of the Su family was the most appropriate identity.

Bai Ze continued, “Perhaps he brought Miss Su to the capital to repay the Su family for saving his life.”

Jing Yi said, “Why wouldn't he just bring her back to the Wei family?”

Bai Ze sighed. “Young Marquis, with Miss Su's status, she can't be the daughter-in-law of the Wei family.”

It was already difficult to be a concubine, so she could only be a mistress..

Chapter 284

Bai Ze's words were also a reminder to Jing Yi.

Wei Ting's status was precious, but wasn't Jing Yi also a prodigy?

His grandfather was the Marquis of Might, his biological aunt was Concubine Xian, and his father was the Minister of Rites.

Although the Jing family was not a military family, Jing Yi had been gifted since he was young and was a rare talent.

It was impossible for him to marry a woman from the common people.

Not to mention that the woman had been married before…

After arriving home, Jing Yi greeted his grandfather as usual.

Just as he reached the door of the study, he heard an unusual conversation coming from inside.

“Father, are you serious?

“How can the news your sister got someone to send from the palace early in the morning be fake?”

“This is too… too surprising.”

Jing Yi had no intention of eavesdropping on his elders' conversation. Since his grandfather and father had something to discuss, he planned to come back tomorrow.

Unexpectedly, as soon as he turned around, he heard his grandfather say,

“That's right. Who would have thought that Qin Che wasn't the real Protector Duke? That Su Cheng from the countryside of Qingzhou is the real McCoy!”

Jing Yi stopped in his tracks.

“Father, what should we do?”

“Your sister is also worried. Let me quickly find out what's going on with that Su Cheng. Could it be that Qin Canglan made a mistake? I've already sent someone to the Protector Duke's Estate and the Marquisate of Zhenbei. The news has spread throughout both families. Qin Che is indeed not Qin Canglan's biological son and has already been chased out of the main courtyard by Qin Canglan. He has also handed over his token and golden seal. He can't keep his position as the Protector Duke!”

“Then… what about the marriage between the Third Prince and the daughter of the Qin family?”

“If I knew what to do, I would have entered the palace long ago! But according to the investigation, the real Protector Duke also has a daughter, but she seems to have been married in the countryside.”

Jing Yi was stunned.

Su Xiaoxiao took a nap. When she woke up, her high fever had subsided and her clothes had been changed.

She would sweat when her fever subsided. It was obvious that Wei Ting had changed it for her.

Su Xiaoxiao lowered her head and pulled open her collar.

He had even changed her undergarment…

This guy was good!

Wei Ting was not in the room.

Su Xiaoxiao touched the side of the bed and felt cold.

Wei Ting was already up.

Or rather, he'd hardly slept all night.

Su Xiaoxiao was in a daze from the fever. She sweated one moment and felt cold the next. It repeated until dawn.

Wei Ting did not have time to rest. He had to prepare breakfast.

At least he was aware of his culinary skills. Instead of continuing with the ingredients in the kitchen, he went out to buy beancurd and steamed buns.

Just as he entered the house to see if Su Xiaoxiao had woken up, he saw a fat girl looking around on the bed with wide eyes.

“What are you looking for?” he asked.

“Blood from nosebleed!” Su Xiaoxiao said solemnly.

Wei Ting was speechless.

Wei Ting coughed lightly. Just as he placed the things on the table in the central room, the sound of hooves sounded outside.

A carriage stopped outside the house. “Daughter! We're back!”

It was Su Cheng's excited voice.

Yesterday, Qin Canglan brought Su Cheng, Su Ergou, and the three little ones out to ride horses. At first, he only planned to find a relatively quiet empty space nearby. Later, he realized that these few people were too noisy and could not use ordinary empty spaces.

Hence. Oin Canglan brought her to the Oin familv's horse farm.

There were too many good horses on the horse farm. Su Cheng and Su Ergou were dazzled by the selection, wishing they could try every horse.

The three little ones did not stay idle. The pageboys on the horse farm brought them trained ponies and placed the children's saddles. The pageboys led them around the horse farm.

The three little ones raised their chins smugly.

The few of them had so much fun that they forgot the time. When the three little fellows began to look for their mother, it started to rain heavily again.

They had no choice but to stay overnight in the ranch house.

The three little ones missed their mother terribly. Su Cheng and Su Ergou also missed their Daya. The group rushed back without eating.

The three little ones jumped down anxiously.

Qin Canglan was shocked. He got off the horse before them and picked up the three little balls.

The courtyard door opened.

Qin Canglan put down the little packrat army and turned to see his precious granddaughter.

Unexpectedly, their eyes met.

Qin Canglan was shocked. “Wei Ting?”

Wei Ting was also stunned.

He had heard Father Su's voice and came to open the door, but he had forgotten that Father Su and the others had gone out with Qin Canglan yesterday.

Wei Ting knew of Qin Canglan's existence, but Qin Canglan did not know of Wei Ting.

There was only his granddaughter at home and Wei Ting's sudden appearance
here…

Wa Wei Ting here to assassinate his granddaughter?

Qin Canglan's killing intent was bound to appear as he attacked Wei Ting!

Wei Ting took a step back and avoided his killing move.

Qin Canglan chased in and the two of them fought in the courtyard.

Qin Canglan was serious. It had not been easy for him to reunite with his son's family. He would take the lives of whoever dared to hurt his precious granddaughter!

Wei Ting focused on defense.

In a flash, the two of them had exchanged more than ten moves.

Qin Canglan said coldly, “As expected of Wei Wei's grandson… You have some ability. Next, I'm going to be serious!”

He sank his energy into his diaphragm and circulated his internal energy.

Wei Ting's eyes darkened slightly.

Qin Canglan was good. He had to attack this move head-on.

Wei Ting turned his palm into a fist and faced Qin Canglan's killing move.

In the blink of an eye, Su Cheng walked in strangely. “Son-in-law, Uncle Qin, what are you two doing?

Son-in-law?

Qin Canglan froze in shock.

Wei Ting wanted to retract his hand, but it was too late.

He punched Qin Canglan's face…

Su Cheng was shocked and ran over in a panic.

“Son-in-law, are you alright?”

He held Wei Ting's shoulder with both hands and looked up and down, extremely worried.

Qin Canglan muttered, “I think I was the one who was beaten up?”

Qin Canglan refused and looked at Wei Ting. “What did you call him?”

Su Cheng said angrily, “He called me Dad! I'm his son-in-law! No! He's my son-in-law!”

Look at how angry he was!

Qin Cang's body trembled. “He… he's Daya's… husband?” What the hell?

Why was his grandson-in-law the brat of the Wei family?

This can't be true!

Dahu, Erhu, and Xiaohu ran in and called out to Wei Ting in a childish voice,

“Dad..”

Chapter 285

Su Cheng was very dissatisfied with Qin Canglan's actions of beating up his precious son-in-law. His face immediately darkened, indicating that the relationship he had built yesterday had disappeared.

Qin Canglan clenched his fists. He was Su Cheng's biological father!

When Steward Cen came to Pear Blossom Alley to pick Qin Canglan up, Qin Canglan was already so angry that he was autistic. He sat alone on the steps gloomily, like a lonely old man who had been abandoned. “Old Master?” Steward Cen waved his hand in front of his eyes.

Qin Canglan said, “I'm not blind.”

Steward Cen lowered his hand. “Alright, you're getting into the carriage?”

Qin Canglan got into the carriage with a dark expression.

Steward Cen got into the carriage behind him and looked at him in confusion.

“What are you…”

Qin Canglan told him about seeing Wei Ting. “…That rascal from the Wei family! ”

Steward Cen was stunned. “You mean… Eldest Miss's husband in the countryside is the youngest son of the Wei family? Eldest Miss was married last December. At that time, wasn't the youngest son of the Wei family cultivating at the Dragon Temple?”

Qin Canglan snorted coldly. “Heh, cultivation was a cover. He went to Qingzhou!”

Qin Canglan had already learned from Su Ergou about her granddaughter's marriage. Wei Ting was injured and was captured by Su Cheng to become a live-in son-in-law.

The family still did not know Wei Ting's true identity.

Steward Cen muttered, “This family… is really ambitious. For a son-in-law they picked up to come to the capital, have they never suspected that Wei Ting might have some impressive identity? Does Missy not know?”

“I didn't ask her.”

Su Xiaoxiao was sick, so Qin Canglan couldn't bear to interrogate her and came out first.

Qin Canglan clenched his fists. “I will never agree to this marriage!”

Steward Cen coughed lightly. “Well, I think… you should acknowledge them first. In his heart, his son-in-law seems to be more important than you.”

Qin Canglan said, “If you don't speak, no one will think you're mute.”

On the other hand, Emperor Jing Xuan had a headache for two days over the matter of the Protectorate.

No matter what, he was still a future relative of the emperor. Did he have to make such a big deal out of it?

However, since Qin Canglan was so determined, Emperor Jing Xuan could not pretend to be confused.

Emperor Jing Xuan gave Qin Che a new name—Qin Jiang.

Qin Che's name had been taken back. When Su Cheng entered the palace,

Emperor Jing Xuan would give him Qin Che's identity, the golden seal, and the token of the Protector of the State.

Of course, there were some details, such as Qin Jiang's punishment, that could not be rushed.

After all, it was a crime of deceiving the emperor.

Even if he took into account the relationship between the previous emperor and Qin Feng,

However, while he could avoid death, he could not escape punishment.

Whether he would be fired or demoted, Emperor Jing Xuan had to consider carefully.

At the Protector's Estate.

Qin Che… should be called Qin Jiang now.

Ever since he was chased out of the main courtyard, Qin Jiang had moved into the Qingfeng Pavilion, which was very far away from Qin Canglan's courtyard.

That was once the courtyard Qin Feng used to practice martial arts.

It could not be said to be very old, but it was indeed a little in disrepair.

His background spread throughout the residence. In the past, those servants who curried favor with him hid far away.

“Why didn't you leave?”

He sat in the dark house and looked at Xu Qing, who was carrying a food box.

Xu Qing said, “As I said, my life was given to me by the High Duke. I'll be loyal to him for the rest of my life.”

Qin Jiang smiled. “I'm no longer the High Duke.” Xu Qing said, “You're still my master.”

“Put it on the table,” Qin Jiang said.

Xu Qing placed the chicken soup he had bought from outside on the table.

Qin Jiang mocked, “After this matter, I can be considered to have seen a lot. I'm the Protector Duke and the master of the entire mansion. But how could Qin Canglan easily cripple me with just a word?”

“Why?” Xu Qing asked.

Qin Jiang sneered. “Because I don't have any real power. To be precise, I have military power. The old man is so sinister. On the surface, he passed the position of Protector of the State to me, but in fact, he still has military power firmly in his hands. I'm just a target he pushed out and made everyone transfer their hatred to me.”

Xu Qing said, “I don't think Old Master thinks that way.”

Qin Jiang said sinisterly, “Heh, but he did it!”

Xu Qing stopped talking.

Qin Jiang opened the food box. “It's fine. It's good to see it clearly earlier. Have you found out the information I asked you to find out?”

Xu Qing said, “I found out.”

After Xu Qing finished reporting in detail, Qin Jiang pondered for a long time before throwing his head back and laughing. “I see… Qin Canglan… You didn't expect this, did you… The heavens didn't kill me… the heavens didn't kill me…”

At Qi Xiang Palace, Consort Xian was sitting in front of the window and reading the poetry collection.

She felt dizzy from reading.

If she wanted to gain a foothold in the harem, she could not depend on only her looks and background. She had to know how to manage her image. Consort Xian's image was that of a talented woman with a scholarly aura.

“I'm so sleepy.”

Consort Xian threw the poetry book on the table in disdain.

After a while, Liu Sande rushed over and whispered into Concubine Xian's ear.

Consort Xian's expression changed. “Really?”

Liu Sande handed her the note. “Your Highness, please take a look.”

After reading it, Consort Xian's expression changed. She crumpled the note into a ball and said with a solemn expression, “Go out of the palace and meet this Xu Qing!”

Liu Sande agreed. “Yes!”

Consort Xian reminded, “Be careful not to be discovered.”

Liu Sande said, “I will be careful.”

xu Qing waited outside tne palace.

As soon as Liu Sande's carriage left the palace, Xu Qing flashed in. He was so fast that Liu Sande could only see an afterimage.

“Continue driving,” Xu Qing said to Liu Sande through the curtain.

Liu Sande calmly looked at the patrolling imperial guards walking towards him and secretly broke out in cold sweat.

“Are you… Mr. Qin's men?”

Xu Qing was too fast. Liu Sande really couldn't see his face clearly.

Xu Qing went straight to the point. “My master asked me to bring a few words to Concubine Xian. The eldest daughter of the common people has married, and her husband is Wei Ting. If Concubine Xian doesn't want the military power of the Qin and Su families to fall into the hands of the Wei family, my lord is willing to help her!”

Liu Sande's hair stood on end!

Heavens!

What shocking secret had he heard?

The real daughter of the Qin family was actually involved with the youngest son of the Wei family!

Wasn't the youngest son of the Wei family a monk?

Why did he go to Qingzhou… and abduct the eldest daughter of the Qin family?

“That…” Liu Sande turned around, wanting to ask Xu Qing a few more questions, but there was already no one in the carriage!

He was stunned.

Qin Jiang actually had such an expert by his side!

Liu Sande did not dare to delay. He bought a box of snacks from a nearby market and returned to the palace.

He relayed what Xu Qing had said.

Consort Xian could not remain calm anymore. She stood up and clenched her handkerchief, her beautiful eyes flashing with anger.

Damn Wei Ting!

Instead of her precious daughter, he went to marry a fat girl from the countryside!

Did he want to obtain the military power of the Qin and Su families?

Dream on!

Chapter 286

Emperor Jing Xuan was thinking about the contents of the imperial edict when he heard the young eunuch report that Concubine Xian wanted to see him.

Emperor Jing Xuan frowned inadvertently.

Eunuch Fu glanced at Emperor Jing Xuan without batting an eyelid. He deliberated for a moment and did not speak.

The young eunuch lowered his body and waited outside, not daring to breathe.

Emperor Jing Xuan doted on Concubine Xian very much. Usually, when Concubine Xian asked to see him, Emperor Jing Xuan would meet her directly. However, he was not in a good mood today.

Emperor Jing Xuan sighed. “Forget it. Let Concubine Xian in.”

“Yes.”

The young eunuch retreated.

Not long after, Consort Xian arrived at the imperial study with a worried expression.

Her every frown, smile, and even every look was carefully designed to ensure that Emperor Jing Xuan would look at her from any angle.

“Your Majesty!”

She bowed tearfully.

When Emperor Jing Xuan saw this, he knew that Concubine Xian was going to do it again. However, he did not think that it would really be something earth-shattering.

He guessed that it was because he had gone to the Empress's palace and made Consort Xian jealous.

The harem never lacked women, nor did it lack jealous women. However, the only person who had the guts to show her jealousy was Consort Xian.

What Emperor Jing Xuan liked was Concubine Xian's straightforwardness. Occasionally, it was a little annoying, but overall, it was not a big deal.

“Are you feeling better?” Emperor Jing Xuan asked.

Consort Xian said aggrievedly, “Your Majesty, you still remember that I'm not feeling well. Have you forgotten that you haven't been to my palace for a few days?”

Emperor Jing Xuan smiled. “I've been too busy these past few days and neglected my beloved concubine. It's my fault.”

Concubine Xian came to Emperor Jing Xuan's side sweetly.

Eunuch Fu gestured to the palace servants in the imperial study. Everyone understood and retreated one by one.

Eunuch Fu could not leave. He had to serve Emperor Jing Xuan.

Unless Emperor Jing Xuan ordered him to leave.

Concubine Xian said, “Your Majesty, I came today to tell you something.”

“Oh?” Emperor Jing Xuan put down the memorial and glanced at Eunuch Fu.

Eunuch Fu understood and immediately brought a stool over for Concubine Xian to sit beside Emperor Jing Xuan.

Consort Xian said, “I don't dare to sit.”

Emperor Jing Xuan smiled. “What exactly is it that makes your beloved concubine so serious?”

Consort Xian looked aggrieved and worried. “Does Your Majesty think that I only know how to fight with women?”

Emperor Jing Xuan smiled helplessly. “I didn't say that.”

Concubine Xian said solemnly, “Your Majesty, what I want to report is very important. I hope Your Majesty can forgive me first.”

Emperor Jing Xuan said, “My beloved concubine, feel free to say it. I won't punish you.”

Concubine Xian said, “Your Majesty, the news has spread both inside and outside the palace. Qin Che, who is the Protector Duke, is not Qin Canglan's true legitimate son.”

Emperor Jing Xuan nodded. “That's right. He's Qin Canglan's half-brother. I've already issued a decree to name him Qin Jiang.”

The Qin and Su families did not deliberately hide the news, so it was not strange for it to spread.

It would be suspicious if Consort Xian said that she did not know.

Concubine Xian continued, “I also heard that Qin Canglan's son is called Su

Cheng. He has a son and a daughter who are the same age as Qin Yanran and her brother.”

Emperor Jing Xuan asked, “Are you worried about Third Brother's marriage with the Protectorate?”

“Of course I'm worried. I only have one son… I can't wait to betroth the most outstanding woman in the world to him…”

Consort Xian did not deny it. The more straightforward she was, the more she looked like she was not scheming. The more Emperor Jing Xuan doted on her.

The Empress always had a watertight attitude, which made Emperor Jing Xuan unhappy.

Emperor Jing Xuan was also having a headache over this marriage. He did not speak for a long time.

Concubine Xian continued, “Logically speaking, His Majesty has issued a decree for His Highness to marry the eldest daughter of the Protectorate, Miss Su, who grew up among the commoners.”

Emperor Jing Xuan frowned and said, “She got married in the countryside.”

Consort Xian said, “I'm here for this. Your Majesty, do you know who her husband is?”

Emperor Jing Xuan asked, “Who?”

Consort Xian said seriously, “Lord Wu An's youngest grandson, Wei Ting!” Emperor Jing Xuan was stunned.

Concubine Xian complained, “Your Majesty, I just heard about it. It turns out that the Wei family kid refused to marry Hui An because he took a fancy to the daughter of the Protectorate! Since he has a sweetheart, why didn't he say it directly? He even lied that he went to the temple to cultivate…”

Consort Xian's words seemed to be complaining that Wei Ting was heartless, but she was actually exposing Wei Ting for lying to the emperor and Wei Ting's secret relationship with the Qin family.

Emperor Jing Xuan frowned. “Where did you hear that? Do you have evidence?”

Consort Xian said firmly, “If Your Majesty doesn't believe me, just call Wei Ting over and interrogate him! He was supposed to be cultivating well in the temple. He didn't return to the capital earlier or later. However, as soon as the Su family entered the capital to acknowledge their relatives, he followed them back. Your Majesty, don't you think it's too much of a coincidence?” Eunuch Fu was also shocked.

That Miss Su's husband… was actually the youngest son of the Wei family?

The Qin family and the Wei family were mortal enemies!

Why were they together? Besides, wasn't Wei Ting cultivating in the temple?

If what Consort Xian said was true, then Wei Ting had not only committed the crime of deceiving the emperor.

What did Wei Ting want to do by secretly winning over the Qin family and the Su family?

Was it a rebellion?

Emperor Jing Xuan immediately sent someone to the Wei family to invite Wei Ting into the palace.

Wei Ting was not in the Wei family, but Yuchi Xiu was.

Seeing that something was wrong, he immediately went to Pear Blossom Alley.

Wei Ting tidied his clothes and entered the palace.

Consort Xian did not leave. She was waiting to confront Wei Ting.

Emperor Jing Xuan did not waste his breath and went straight to the point. “Tell me honestly, did you stay in the temple before you returned to the capital? I can send someone to the temple to investigate, but once I investigate, you won't have any room to plead.”

Wei Ting asked calmly, “Why do you say that, Your Majesty?”

Emperor Jing Xuan said sternly, “Someone said that you got married in

Qingzhou. Your wife is the eldest daughter of the Protectorate.”

Wei Ting pretended not to see Concubine Xian and asked with an unruly expression, “May I ask Your Majesty, who did you hear it from?”

Consort Xian snorted coldly. “I was the one who told His Majesty! Wei Ting, don't tell me you don't admit it?”

Wei Ting asked indifferently, “What does Consort Xian want me to admit?”

“Stop pretending in front of His Majesty and me!” After Concubine Xian finished speaking coldly, she turned to look at Emperor Jing Xuan. 'Your Majesty, in order to prove the identities of Su Cheng and the other two to Qin Canglan, the Marquis of Zhenbei specially brought two witnesses from the village. We'll know if Wei Ting married anyone from their village!”

Wei Ting's eyes darkened.

Emperor Jing Xuan pondered for a moment. “Summon!”

Ever since Old Master Su and Brother Su arrived in the capital, they had been placed under house arrest in the Marquis of Zhenbei's Estate. The two of them had been afraid for a long time that they would be killed by the people of the Marquis of Zhenbei's Estate.

If they had known that Su Cheng's background was so powerful, they would not have secretly picked up Su Cheng's jade pendant back then.

Forget it. What was the use of regretting now?

“You can leave now!”

The servant of the Su family opened the door and threw their bags back to them.

Su Dalang was in disbelief. “Can we really… leave?” The servant mocked, “Why? Do you want to freeload for the rest of your life?”

Su Dalang hurriedly said, “No, no. We'll leave now!”

Su Dalang was also a glorious figure in the village. When he came to the capital, he realized that he was just an ant on the ground.

They could not even afford to offend the lowest-ranking servant in the residence.

The two of them staggered out of the residence, preparing to ask for directions and see if they could find a cheap caravan to return with.

The two of them had only taken a few steps when they were stopped by a carriage..

Chapter 287

Fifteen minutes later, the two of them were forcefully brought to a restaurant.

The two of them entered the room at the left end of the corridor.

Inside stood a man wearing a bamboo hat. His face was covered, so his facial features could not be seen clearly. Only his chin could be vaguely seen.

Behind the man was a landscape screen.

The two of them had never seen the world and thought that the man in the bamboo hat was someone who could make decisions.

Old Master Su asked in a panic, “May I ask why you brought us here?”

At this moment, how could Old Master Su still be as noble as before?

The edges of his body were smoothed.

The man in the bamboo hat was none other than Qin Jiang's trusted aide, Xu Qing.

Xu Qing sized up the two of them carefully and said, “Are you from Qingzhou's Apricot Flower Village?”

Old Master Su bowed slightly. “Yes, yes.”

Su Dalang helped his grandfather up, feeling flustered and uneasy.

Xu Qing asked coldly, “Did the people from the Marquis of Zhenbei bring you to the capital?”

Su looked at his grandfather, not knowing if he should answer.

Old Master Su said, “Yes.”

Old Master Su said, “…Yes.”

Xu Qing continued to ask, “How many families in your village have the surname, Su?”

Old Master Su answered honestly, “Two families. Our old Su family has lived in Apricot Flower Village for generations. There's another small Su family that moved into the village more than ten years ago.”

Xu Qing unfolded the portrait in his hand. “Do you know this man?”

Old Master Su looked at the portrait and hesitated.

Xu Qing said in a low voice, “If you want to live, tell me honestly. Do you know me or not?”

Su Dalang was frightened and quickly said, “I know him. His name is Su Cheng. He's from the Su family.”

Xu Qing took out two other portraits. “Which one is his daughter?”

Old Master Su pointed. “The fatter one.”

There was no mistake.

Xu Qing held two portraits in his hand. One was a portrait of Su Xiaoxiao, and the other was casually drawn.

“What's her name?”

Su Dalang shrank his neck. “S-Su Daya.”

Xu Qing said, “She has a husband?”

Su Dalang was surprised. “You mean Young Mr. Wei?”

It was impossible for Xu Qing to answer him. He asked arrogantly, “How did he marry Su Daya?”

Brother Su whispered, “He… He was picked up by Su Cheng. Su Daya's marriage was terminated. Su Cheng went to the village to nab a son-in-law. He didn't nab one, so he picked someone up from the roadside.”

To be honest, at first, they did not know that Wei Ting had been picked up by Su Cheng and thought that Su Cheng had gone to some village to kidnap him.

It was only after Young Mr. Wei walked around the village that everyone slowly found out.

“Young Mr. Wei was seriously injured. He probably agreed to this marriage to repay her kindness.”

Xu Qing nodded and opened the three portraits on the table. “Which one of these portraits is Young Mr. Wei?”

Brother Su glanced at Old Master Su, who closed his eyes in resignation.

Su Dalang made up his mind and pointed at the middle one.

Behind the screen, Qin Jiang observed their expressions through the gap without blinking.

Xu Qing took a step back and looked at Qin Jiang calmly.

Qin Jiang nodded slightly.

This time, Xu Qing did not continue to interrogate them. Instead, he took out a bag of silver and poured it on the table.

Looking at the white silver ingots, Old Master Su and Brother Su widened their eyes.

Xu Qing said unhurriedly, “Listen carefully. This person's name is Wei Ting. Before he was picked up by Su Cheng to be a live-in son-in-law, he came to your village to ask about Little Su's family. Moreover, he was not injured.” Brother Su was stunned. “This…

Xu Qing threatened, “Did you remember what I just said? If anyone asks, you should know how to answer, right? If you do it well, these silver will be yours. I'll even prepare a carriage for you to return to Qingzhou comfortably. But if you don't know what's good for you…”

Xu Qing pulled out the sword at his waist.

“I won't kill you now, but I guarantee that you won't be able to walk out of the capital alive!”

At the Marquis of Zhenbei's Estate.

Su Xiaoxiao came over to change the Old Marquis' dressing and let the doctor rest for half a day.

When the Old Marquis saw his dear granddaughter, the grandchildren at home instantly lost their fragrance.

He did not care. His sister's was his. She was his biological granddaughter and he would not accept a retort!

Su Qi and Su Yu stood in the courtyard and watched with jealousy as their grandfather asked about the little girl. He sent her this and that, wishing he could get the servants to empty the storeroom for the little girl to choose.

Su Yu said, “Second Brother, do you think Grandpa knows that the two of us are here?”

Su Qi said, “Go ask Grandpa.”

Su Yu said aggrievedly, “Do you think I didn't ask?”

His grandfather no longer had him in his eyes. He was not the Little Yuyu that his grandfather doted on the most!

Su Qi crossed his arms and snorted. “When Fourth Brother and Fifth Brother return, this girl will get a lesson she deserves!”

The butler rushed over. “Second Young Master, Third Young Master, are the heir and eldest young master here?”

Su Qi asked, “Why are you looking for my father and brother?”

The butler said, “Someone from the palace came.”

Su Qi said seriously, “I'll go take a look.”

Su Yu hurriedly said, “I'll go too!”

When the two brothers arrived at the entrance of the residence, they realized that Emperor Jing Xuan wanted to summon the grandfather and grandson from Apricot Flower Village. Su Qi said to Eunuch Quan, “They've already left!”

Eunuch Quan was shocked. “Left?”

Was he going to return empty-handed? Su Qi nodded. “Yes, they've been gone for more than two hours.”

Su Yu recalled, “It seems to be more than that…

Eunuch Quan slapped his thigh. “Oh no!”

After more than two hours, they had probably left the capital.

Just as he was burning with anxiety, Old Master Su and Brother Su walked over in a sorry state.

Su Yu looked at the two of them strangely. “Eh? Why are you back? What happened?”

Su Dalang lowered his eyes and said, 'We… Not long after we left, our money was snatched away… We had no choice… We could only return to the Marquis of Zhenbei's Estate first… We wanted to see… if we can borrow some money to return to Qingzhou…”

“Qingzhou?” Eunuch Quan looked at the two of them. “Are you the grandfather and grandson from Apricot Flower Village?”

In the imperial study.

The atmosphere was extremely cold.

Emperor Jing Xuan said, “I'll give you one last chance. Where did you go when you were cultivating in the temple?”

Wei Ting said nothing.

He could not admit that he had left the temple not only because he would be charged with lying to the emperor, or any other crime.

Instead, he didn't want to expose the three children.

Under normal circumstances, when everyone found out that he had sons outside, they would at most sigh. It turned out that Wei Ting was not a gentleman.

However, if this matter was related to cultivation, it was inevitable that people would think that he had planned it long ago. He had deliberately taken the initiative to go to the temple and fade away from everyone's sight, but he had actually secretly gone to Qingzhou.

Did he have to go through so much trouble for three illegitimate children?

The answer was no.

Emperor Jing Xuan was suspicious by nature and would definitely investigate the backgrounds of the three children…

Chapter 288

That's right. The most terrifying thing in the entire matter was not the crime of deceiving the emperor, nor was it the crime of him “colluding” with the Qin family.

As long as he was still useful, Emperor Jing Xuan would not take his life.

He had enough ways to clear his name.

But the three children…

He could not let Emperor Jing Xuan notice the three children!

Eunuch Quan entered with sweat all over his forehead and bowed respectfully.

“Your Majesty! I've brought them!”

Old Master Su and Brother Su were brought into the imperial study.

On the way here, Eunuch Quan repeatedly reminded the two of them to follow the rules. They must not offend the emperor and remember to kowtow.

The two of them were honest farmers. It was already scary enough to see the Marquis in the capital. Now that they had entered the palace and were about to meet Emperor Jingxuan…

Their legs were too weak to stand up, and they fell to the ground when they got out of the carriage.

The eunuchs supported them for a long time. Eunuch Quan said all kinds of good and bad things. He knocked and reminded them before finally comforting the two of them.

“Come in and kneel,” Eunuch Quan reminded softly, his eyebrows filled with disdain.

The two of them knelt on the ground and kowtowed!

Emperor Jing Xuan raised his hand.

The two of them did not dare to look up, so they naturally did not see it.

Eunuch Quan glanced at them. The two of them were too nervous and only cared about kowtowing.

Eunuch Fu said, “There's no need to kowtow.”

Only then did the two of them stop. They looked up curiously at the man on the dragon throne.

Eunuch Quan coughed heavily. “Ahem!”

The two of them suddenly remembered Eunuch Quan's reminder—don't look directly at the holy face.

Old Master Su and Eldest Brother Su hurriedly lowered their heads and trembled!

Consort Xian covered her nose with a handkerchief in disdain. Country bumpkins stank!

Old Master Su and Brother Su were so frightened that they broke out in a sweat.

Eunuch Fu's expression did not change. When Eunuch Quan saw that they had provoked Consort Xian, he was so angry that he glared at the two of them!

Wei Ting's expression was as calm as ever, and a cold glint flashed across his eyes.

“Your Majesty, quickly interrogate them, ” Concubine Xian said coquettishly. She really couldn't stand the unpleasant smell on the two of them. Jingxuan Emperor Dynasty Wei Ting looked at him deeply. “Wei Ting, I gave you a chance.”

“Your Majesty!” Concubine Xian urged.

She had already brought the witness! She could not give Wei Ting a chance to admit his mistake!

The military power of the Qin family and the Su family belonged to her son. How dare a young son of the Wei family snatch things from his son?

What nonsense!

Emperor Jing Xuan's gentle gaze landed on Old Master Su and Brother Su. “What are your names? Where are you from?”

This was the emperor. The emperor's aura made the two of them almost unable to breathe.

Old Master Su kowtowed again and said shakily, “I… I… Su Gu. He's my eldest grandson… Brother… Brother Su… We're from Apricot Flower Village in

Qingzhou. ”

“From the same village as Su Cheng?” Emperor Jing Xuan asked.

Old Master Su had heard Su Cheng's name for half his life. In the past, he only felt disdain. Now, he knew that he was not worthy.

Old Master Su replied in fear and trepidation, “Yes… we used to live in a village… After that… they moved to the capital…”

Emperor Jing Xuan said, “Do you know someone called Wei Ting?”

Old Master Su forgot the rules again and looked up in a daze. “Wei… Mr. Wei? He's the only one in the village with the surname Wei.”

Eunuch Quan winked. Do not stare at the emperor!

How unruly!

Emperor Jing Xuan did not mind.

He paid attention to the etiquette of the imperial court, but that depended on the person. It was disrespectful for his subjects to not observe it but how could these country bumpkins understand this?

Emperor Jing Xuan thought for a moment and said, “It's him. Tell me about him.”

Old Master Su stammered, “He… is the live-in son-in-law of the Su family… Su Cheng's family!”

Emperor Jing Xuan gestured for Old Master Su to continue.

Old Master Su continued, “Mr. Wei isn't from our village… The first time I saw him was at the beginning of winter. He came to the village entrance and lingered. I asked him who he was looking for and he asked me if there was a family with the surname Su in the village. I said that my surname is Su. He said that it wasn't me. He said the family moved here more than ten years ago and the head of the family was probably in his thirties. When I heard that he was here to ask about the Su family, I didn't have a good expression.”

Emperor Jing Xuan said, “Why?”

Old Master Su said, “The Su family doesn't have a good reputation in the village. Su Cheng has been an escort outside and knows many people. I didn't take it to heart. I didn't expect him to become the live-in son-in-law of the Su family a month later.”

A thought-provoking glint flashed across Emperor Jing Xuand's eyes. “You mean… Wei Ting first investigated the Su family before coming to their house to be a live-in son-in-law?”

Old Master Su hurriedly said, “Mr. Wei didn't come personally. He was injured and was picked up by Su Cheng. Coincidentally, Su Daya's engagement was broken, so Su Cheng asked him to be his daughter's husband.”

Consort Xian took advantage of the situation and said, “Your Majesty! Listen! Wei Ting really has ulterior motives!”

Emperor Jing Xuan frowned and said to the two of them, “Look up.”

Old Master Su and Brother Su raised their heads trembling, their eyes filled with panic.

Emperor Jing Xuan narrowed his eyes. “You're lying!”

The two of them trembled!

Emperor Jing Xuan said coldly, “Men, drag them away and flog them a hundred times until they're willing to tell the truth!”

Four powerful eunuchs immediately walked in and dragged the two of them out without a word.

Old Master Su cried out, “Your Majesty, spare me! Your Majesty, spare me! I was forced…'

Emperor Jing Xuan raised his hand indifferently.

The eunuchs put him down.

Old Master Su fell to the ground and trembled. “I… I was forced… Those words… were said by someone… who threatened me… I just left the Marquis of Zhenbei this morning… I wanted to find a cheap caravan to return to Qingzhou… Unexpectedly, I was captured…'

“That person gave me a pile of silver and taught me… to say those words… He even threatened me… If I don't obey him… he'll let me and my grandson die in the capital…'

Emperor Jing Xuan asked suspiciously, “There's actually such a thing?”

It was unknown where Su Dalang got the courage from, but he quickly said, “Your Majesty! What my grandfather said is all true!”

Consort Xian's expression changed.

What was Qin Jiang doing?

Couldn't he even control two farmers?

He had revealed his true colors so quickly!

Emperor Jing Xuan continued, “What exactly is going on with that Mr. Wei?”

Old Master Su broke out in a cold sweat and said, son-in-law that Su Cheng picked up. I'm not lying never been to the village before… He's never asked Emperor Jing Xuan pointed at Wei Ting. “Look up.

Concubine Xian's frown relaxed again.

That was right. Even if she couldn't frame Wei Ting for deliberately approaching the Qin family, she could at least prove that Wei Ting had appeared in Qingzhou.

Then Wei Ting would have committed the crime of deceiving the emperor!

“No, I don't.”

Old Master Su said.

Consort Xian's body swayed. “What did you say? You don't know him? Look carefully!”

Old Master Su said in a daze, “I-I saw it clearly… I really don't know him.”

Concubine Xian said seriously, “He's Wei Ting! That Mr. Wei from your village!”

Old Master Su looked at Wei Ting and shook his head. “No, he's not. Mr.. Wei doesn't look like this!”

Chapter 289

Consort Xian pointed at Old Master Su's nose and said, “You're lying!”

Old Master Su looked wronged. “I'm not lying!”

Wei Ting looked at Old Master Su meaningfully.

Old Master Su knelt on the ground and looked at Emperor Jing Xuan, who was sitting on the dragon chair. “Your Majesty! I'm not lying! I really don't know him!”

Emperor Jing Xuan fell into deep thought.

Suddenly, he thought of something and asked suspiciously, “Wait, I heard that Su Daya has three sons. If she only got married at the end of last year, where did her sons come from?”

Wei Ting looked at Old Master Su again.

Old Master Su said, “Are you talking about Dahu and the others? They're not the biological children of the family. Su Cheng carried them back from outside and raised them under the names of Eldest Miss Su and Mr. Wei. If you don't believe me, you can send someone to the village to ask. The villagers know!” Emperor Jing Xuan continued, “Isn't Mr. Wei actually Wei Ting?”

Old Master Su said, “I only Imow his surname is Wei. I don't know if his name is Wei Ting.”

Emperor Jing Xuan frowned.

Old Master Su explained, “We country bumpkins don't have much knowledge. It's all nonsense. A live-in son-in-law who didn't grow up in the village. It's already good enough to have a title. No one asked for his name. Even if they did, they wouldn't know how to write it.”

Eunuch Fu came from the countryside. When he was young, his family was poor, so he was sold to the palace to be a eunuch.

He whispered to Emperor Jing Xuan, “It's the same in my village.”

Emperor Jing Xuan pondered for a moment. “Where is this person?”

Eunuch Fu said, “I don't think he came to the capital.”

“The entire family is here. Isn't he coming?” Emperor Jing Xuan looked at Old Master Su again.

Old Master Su hurriedly kowtowed. “I was captured and brought to the Marquis of Zhenbei… I don't know what happened after the Su family…”

The two ordinary commoners had not made any big mistakes. He could not torture them immediately or what would the world think of him, the emperor? Emperor Jing Xuan pinched the space between his eyebrows and asked Eunuch

Quan to bring them away.

At this point, Consort Xian knew that there was no chance.

What exactly was going on?

Was Qin Jiang playing with her?

She bit her lip. “Your Majesty…”

Emperor Jing Xuani said calmly, “Where did you hear the news? Are you talking about Wei Ting or Mr. Wei?”

What Consort Xian heard was naturally Wei Ting, but that old man just now swore that he did not know Wei Ting…

Seeing that Concubine Xian was silent, Emperor Jing Xuan sighed. “Alright, it's just that his surname happens to be Wei. Don't listen to rumors in the future.”

“Yes, I was rash.” Consort Xian bowed unwillingly.

Emperor Jing Xuan said, “All of you can leave.”

Concubine Xian said softly, “Your Majesty, I've made chicken soup in my palace…”

Concubine Xian gritted her teeth secretly. After entering the palace for so many years, she had been careful all the time and took every step to firmly grasp Emperor Jing Xuan's heart.

Now, she had angered Emperor Jing Xuan!

“I'll take my leave.” Consort Xian bowed and left the imperial study weakly. After there was no one else around, she grabbed Liu Sande's arm tightly and stomped her feet in anger.

Liu Sande gasped. He muttered in his heart, “Goddess, ancestor, it hurt!”

In the imperial study, Emperor Jing Xuan looked at Wei Ting indifferently. “You too…”

Before Emperor Jing Xuan could finish, Wei Ting cupped his hands and bowed. “I'll take my leave.”

Emperor Jing Xuan choked and glared coldly at Wei Ting. He waved his hand for Wei Ting to leave.

After leaving the palace, Wei Ting got into the carriage.

The secret guard said, “Young Master, I saw the grandfather and grandson of the Su family enter the palace just now. Have they found your whereabouts?”

Wei Ting snorted. “Consort Xian.”

The secret guard was puzzled. “Consort Xian? Did Third Prince do it?”

Wei Ting said thoughtfully, “Xiao Zhonghua isn't that stupid. If he wanted to expose me, he would have done so long ago. There's no need to wait until now. Moreover, he only dares to expose that I was not in the temple and instigate a search. He doesn't dare to say that he saw me in Qingzhou.”

“If Xiao Zhonghua dared to expose that he had been to Qingzhou, he would expose that he was secretly looking for a Commander's Seal. At most, we would fight to the death.”

The secret guard was stunned. “His Highness… didn't tell His Majesty about the

Commander's Seal?”

Wei Ting said calmly, “He wants to pocket that army himself. Of course, he won't let his biological father know.”

The secret guard sighed. “Back in Qingzhou, you were accidentally bumped into by the Third Prince's men… If it weren't for the fact that you were protecting the three young masters, Young Master… you wouldn't have released the news of the Commander's Seal.'

It was a coincidence to meet Xiao Zhonghua in Qingzhou. Not only did Wei Ting not expect it, but Xiao Zhonghua was also very surprised.

It was true that Wei Ting had gone to Qingzhou to get the Commander's Seal and pick up the children.

In order to protect the three children, Wei Ting chose to reveal the Commander's Seal.

Xiao Zhonghua really thought that his only purpose in coming to Qingzhou was to take back the Commander's Seal left behind by his grandfather.

Xiao Zhonghua did not care much about the three children.

The reason why Xiao Zhonghua did not care was firstly that he had the military power to divert attention. Secondly, Xiao Zhonghua knew nothing about some things back then and could not suspect anything.

“Are the three young masters alright?” the secret guard asked.

“They're okay,” Wei Ting said.

Since they had been “picked up” by the Su family, it had nothing to do with him. Even if Emperor Jing Xuan saw the three little fellows in the future, he would not easily suspect them.

While the secret guard heaved a sigh of relief, he was also very puzzled. “Why didn't Old Master Su identify Young Master?” Wei Ting flicked his wide sleeves. “Why else?”

The secret guard asked, “Why?”

He didn't know!

Pear Blossom Lane.

A troupe came in the day and sang for half a day.

The three little ones did not sleep at all. When they heard that they would only return in the evening, they were excited from listening to the show and were running around the courtyard.

Su Xiaoxiao had returned from the Marquis Mansion and was drying herbs in front.

Although the three of them were naughty, they never destroyed Su Xiaoxiao's things. Her herbs were very safe.

Father Su and Su Ergou did not receive such treatment.

Swoosh!

Dahu went over.

A dustpan of corn fell.

Phew!

Erhu went over!

A whole string of chili dropped.

Tsk!

Xiaohu jumped up.

Su Cheng exploded. “My pickled vegetables!”

Fortunately, he snatched it quickly.

Xiaohu, who had jumped into the pickle jar was swiftly grabbed by Su Cheng.

After drying the herbs, Su Xiaoxiao came over with formula milk.

The three little ones immediately stopped being naughty and took the small milk bottle with both hands. They sat on the small stool and gurgled milk. They were especially obedient.

When Wei Ting arrived home, the three little ones had already finished their milk and were caught by Su Cheng to take a shower.

Su Ergou was feeding the horses in the backyard.

Wei Ting walked over and looked at Su Xiaoxiao, who was drying herbs. He asked, “Your idea? Or Su Mo's?”

He was referring to Old Master Su making a fake testimony in the imperial study.

Su Xiaoxiao said innocently, “What are you talking about? I don't understand.”

It would be strange if Wei Ting believed her. It was definitely her idea if she looked like this.

Wei Ting said, “You deliberately let the Su family go first and let them fall into Qin Che's hands… No, it was Qin Jiang. You made Qin Jiang think that he had seized a chance to turn things around. Su Dalang shouldn't know that the person who made a deal with Su MO was Old Master Su.”

Wei Ting was not stupid. Since Xiao Zhonghua was excluded, only Qin Jiang was left.

Qin Jiang's goal was not to kill him but to achieve his goal of seeding fears in Emperor Jing Xuan by exposing him, the Qin family, and the Su family.

What was the thing that Emperor Jing Xuan was most afraid of?

The Wei family's rebellion.

Emperor Jing Xuan would never let the military power of the Qin and Su families fall into Wei Ting's hands.

Thus, there were only two choices left.

The first option was for Emperor Jing Xuan to break up this young couple and let Xiao Zhonghua marry the real daughter of the Qin family.

The second option was that Xiao Zhonghua and Qin Yanran's marriage would not change. The military power would be handed over to Qin Jiang.

After considering all the factors, Emperor Jing Xuan would choose the latter.

However, Qin Jiang did not expect her and the Marquis of Zhenbei to beat him at his own game and clear all the suspicion.

Wei Ting looked at her meaningfully. 'With Madam's brains, it's a pity not to be
a strategist. Aren't you afraid that His Majesty will really send someone to the village to investigate?”

Su Xiaoxiao smiled faintly. “Investigate. With Yu Niang and Village Head around, I'll lose… Hubby.”

Since he called her Madam, she naturally had to call him Hubby in return.

Courtesy demanded reciprocity.

Wei Ting said, “How bold.”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Same to you.”

No matter how bold a person was or how productive the land was, it would be over!

This guy was not easy to deal with.

Su Xiaoxiao tilted her head and looked at him. “So were you really a monk?”

She had already heard from Su MO about his heroic act of becoming a monk.

Wei Ting didn't blush. “No.”

He changed the topic. “Why did you think of asking Old Master Su to say that

Dahu and the others were picked up by your father?”

He seemed to have never mentioned the backgrounds of the three little ones to her. Had she guessed something?

Su Xiaoxiao nodded. “After crossing that path in front of the emperor, the sons will be mine from now on!”

The corners of Wei Ting's mouth twitched. After all this… was this girl just trying to snatch his sons?

Wei Ting approached her step by step.

Su Xiaoxiao was sunbathing when she suddenly felt a powerful aura surrounding her.

She looked up in a daze. Wei Ting was already inches away.

He placed a hand on the wooden stake beside her shoulder and leaned slightly toward her.

Was this guy pressing her against the wall?

As Wei Ting stared at her dangerously, his voice was cold and hoarse.

“Then how do you plan to explain the missing Mr. Wei. to His Majesty?

Su Xiaoxiao blinked. “Uh… this…

In the house, Xiaohu sat in the bathtub and sang a little opera.

“The young widow went to visit the grave Ah My lover left early Ah Poor me I'm dragging along three children

Su Xiaoxiao was speechless.

Wei Ting was dumbfounded..

Chapter 290

When Consort Xian returned to Qi Xiang Palace, she was so angry that she could not eat.

“What are you doing!”

She scolded Liu Sande angrily.

Liu Sande was wronged. “Your Highness… Qin Jiang's guard did tell me that… I don't know how things turned out like this.”

Concubine Xian said coldly, “Useless!”

It was unknown if he was scolding Qin Jiang or Liu Sande.

“Who made Mother unhappy?

Xiao Zhonghua smiled and entered.

Seeing her son, Consort Xian's anger finally subsided. She glared at Liu Sande, who was kneeling on the ground, and snorted. “Hurry up and get out!”

“Yes, yes, yes!” Liu Sande quickly got up and retreated.

Nanny Gui brought the rest of the palace servants out.

Xiao Zhonghua sat down beside Concubine Xian and asked gently, “Mother, why are you so angry?”

Consort Xian hesitated for a moment. “Forget it, there's no harm in telling you.”

She told her about Qin Jiang joining her.

“He kept saying that Wei Ting went to Qingzhou and even married the eldest daughter of the Protector Duke… In the end, the people from the village came over and it wasn't Wei Ting at all! Your father is angry! He must be blaming me for causing trouble for no reason!”

Thinking of this, Consort Xian felt extremely aggrieved.

When Xiao Zhonghua heard this, he was shocked.

As a prince, he had learned to hide his emotions since he was young.

This was the first time he had been so blunt.

“Mother, who did you just say… was Wei Ting's wife?”

Concubine Xian said, “She's Qin Canglan's granddaughter who wandered among the commoners… What's her name… Su Daya… Wait, it's not Wei Ting! It's just someone with the same surname! ”

She held her throbbing temples and gasped. 'My brain… is almost dizzy.”

Xiao Zhonghua said seriously, “Mother, are you sure you're not mistaken… The little fat girl from the Su family in Qingzhou's Apricot Flower Village… is the eldest daughter of the Protector Duke?”

“Yes, it's her. Why?”

At this moment, Consort Xian was in a fit of anger and did not notice that her son was addressing an unfamiliar woman with some familiarity.

“Didn't I already ask Liu Sande to tell you yesterday? Qin Che isn't Qin Canglan's biological son, and Qin Yanran isn't his biological granddaughter. His biological granddaughter is a country girl who grew up in the countryside. I thought you didn't react?”

Liu Sande's original words were: Third Prince was very calm.

In other words, the Third Prince did not care who his fiancée became. As a prince of a country, he knew very well that his marriage was a political marriage.

Consort Xian could not guess her son's thoughts and thought that he had finally come back to his senses. It was right to be shocked.

She gritted her teeth. “Damn Qin Jiang! How dare you fool me!”

Xiao Zhonghua knew better than anyone that Qin Jiang was not fooling

Concubine Xian. Wei Ting was the young man from Apricot Flower Village.

He just did not expect that Miss Su who treated his lung disease would be the eldest daughter of the Protector Duke.

At night, Xiao Zhonghua went to the Jing family.

In the study, Marquis Jing dismissed the servants.

After Marquis Jing heard what happened, he said shrewdly, “It seems that Qin Jiang fell for the trap of the Marquis of Zhenbei. He was too anxious. He's still young.”

Qin Jiang was the father of two children. He was not young, but in terms of seniority, Marquis Jing was in the same generation as Qin Canglan and Su Shuo.

He looked at Xiao Zhonghua again. “What are your plans, Third Prince? Are you going to expose Wei Ting?”

Xiao Zhonghua shook his head. “Not only can't I expose him, but I also have to help him hide his whereabouts in Qingzhou. Otherwise, with his personality,
ne Will det1n1telY drag me down witn nlm.”

That kid was indeed capable of such a thing.

Marquis Jing sighed. “Unfortunately, I didn't get the Commander's Seal.”

Xiao Zhonghua said, “Grandpa, please continue to send people to keep an eye on him. We will find an opportunity.”

“I will.” Marquis Jing thought of something else and said with a solemn expression, 'What's going on with Wei Ting's marriage with that girl? Was he really trying to get close to the daughter of the Qin family?”

Xiao Zhonghua thought for a moment. “I'm not sure.”

Marquis Jing continued, “In that case, that girl is Third Prince's fiancée. What does Third Prince plan to do?”

Xiao Zhonghua looked at the endless night and said in a low voice, “The Wei family and the Qin family… can't be unified through marriage.”

Night fell.

Pear Blossom Alley was filled with the fragrance of rice.

The Su family also began to eat.

“I want jam,” Xiaohu said.

“Okay, I'll get it.” Su Xiaoxiao turned to go to the kitchen..

Chapter 291

Wei Ting shot him a cold look. “Take it yourself!”

Xiaohu trembled. His father was so fierce today.

Xiaohu jumped off the chair resentfully and swung his head. “The young widow is going to visit the grave

Wei Ting trembled. “Shut up! You're not allowed to listen to opera again!”

Xiaohu felt aggrieved.

What was wrong with listening to the show?

He learned so much!

Shouldn't his father praise him?

Dinner was corn flour steamed buns and a mandarin duck pot. Father Su and Su Ergou had the heavy spicy soup base. Su Xiaoxiao and the three little ones had the mushroom soup base. Wei Ting was not picky.

The family finished five catties of lamb chops, two catties of ribs, two catties of plum blossom meat, and a large plate of mushrooms and vegetables. Of course, there were also three dishes of their favorite lotus root and glutinous rice pearl balls.

This was not enough. She added some noodles.

The family was full.

Su Ergou lay on a rattan chair in the backyard and bathed in the moonlight with the three little ones.

Wei Ting went to the kitchen to boil water.

Suddenly, a man in black flashed in.

It was not a secret guard, but Yuchi Xiu.

“Sir, that bastard Xiao Zhonghua is going to plot against you!”

As soon as he finished speaking, the secret guard came.

He did not come alone. Behind him was the white-robed man in the bamboo hat.

The appearance of the white-robed man basically meant that Matriarch Wei had given an order.

He said, “Young Master, the Matriarch wants you to return to the residence immediately.”

At the Wei family, Matriarch Wei did not eat in her courtyard today. Instead, she went to the small ancestral hall of the mansion. This place was decked with the memorial tablets of the Wei family's ancestors, which included Old General Wei, and the others.

When Wei Ting and the white-robed man arrived at the small ancestral hall, Matriarch Wei had just finished serving the last incense.

Matriarch Wei did not turn around and said calmly, “Come here and offer incense to your grandfather and father.”

Wei Ting entered as instructed. He raised his hands and respectfully took the lit incense from Matriarch Wei. He bowed to his grandfather's memorial tablet and inserted it into the incense burner.

“Your father's.” Matriarch Wei handed him a few more lit incense sticks.

Wei Ting also offered incense to his father.

“Your six brothers'.”

Wei Ting also offered incense to his brothers.

Only then did Matriarch Wei open her eyes and look at him. She said with a serious expression, “Kneel.”

Wei Ting knelt on the futon.

The man in white hugged his sword and turned around, to guard the door in silence.

Matriarch Wei said slowly and coldly, “I heard some news. The Third Prince sent someone to secretly reveal it to me. Let's not talk about his motives for now. I only ask you, are you really entangled with the Qin family?”

Wei Ting said, “Grandmother, she's not from the Qin family.”

Matriarch Wei said coldly, “Yes, her surname is Su. She grew up among the commoners and has never received any kindness from the Qin family. She has never eaten a grain of rice from the Qin family. The grudges between the Wei and Qin families have nothing to do with her. Wei Xichao, is that what you want to say?

Wei Ting said nothing.

Matriarch Wei snorted coldly. “I think you've forgotten who killed your grandfather back then! If Qin Canglan hadn't deliberately delayed the provisions and reinforcements, would your grandfather have been captured by the people of Beiyan (Northern Yan)? Qin Canglan used Beiyan to get rid of your grandfather. Have you forgotten this score?!”

“I haven't forgotten,” Wei Ting said. “Every injustice has its perpetrator and every debt has its debtor. I'll take revenge.”

Matriarch Wei leaned on the four-python walking stick that was almost as tall as a person. “What a good saying. Every injustice has its perpetrator and every debt has its debtor. Let me ask you, I'll have you kill Qin Canglan now. Are you going or not!”

Wei Ting stood up and walked out without a word.

Matriarch Wei's face darkened. “What are you doing?

Wei Ting said, “Kill Qin Canglan.”

“Come back here!”

Matriarch Wei shouted!

Wei Ting obediently turned back.

Matriarch Wei was furious. “Can you kill him? Do you really think Qin Canglan is made of paper?”

Wei Ting said seriously, “Grandmother asked me to kill him. I won't hesitate even if I have to risk my life.”

Matriarch Wei mocked, “You make it sound nice, but you know that I won't really let you go!”

Qin Canglan had fought with Lord Wu An for many years. Matriarch Wei knew better than anyone how dangerous he was.

She looked at Wei Ting steadily and said solemnly, “It's fine if you were fooling around in Qingzhou. If it were an ordinary country girl, it's not impossible to let you keep her in the room. However, if the women of the Qin family want to enter our Wei family, I advise you to give up!”

“What is this?”

A childish voice suddenly came from the empty space outside the house.

Matriarch Wei was stunned.

“It's a stone lion.” Yuchi Xiu said..

Chapter 292

“Can I touch it?” Xiaohu asked.

Yuchi Xiu said indecently, “Sure. Anyway, you can touch whatever you want. It's fine even if you break it.”

Matriarch Wei suddenly felt excited.

At this moment, a small round head poked in.

He first looked at Wei Ting and then at Matriarch Wei.

His little head tilted.

The threshold was a little high.

He had to crawl in on his hands and knees.

Halfway up, he suddenly remembered something and asked very politely, “Can I come in?”

Wei Ting looked at Matriarch Wei calmly. “Grandmother?”

Matriarch Wei's gaze landed on the child's face, and her eyes moistened.

“Come, come in! Come in quickly!” She threw away her walking stick and walked towards the child. She was so excited that she staggered.

Wei Ting held her and sighed pretentiously. “Is there a need to do this for a little brat?”

Matriarch Wei glared at him.

Wei Ting let go.

The kid crawled in, sweating.

She also raised her small sleeve and wiped her forehead.

Matriarch Wei's heart melted. “You… you are…”

The kid looked up and said politely, “I'm Dahu.”

“Da, Dahu? Good name… good name!” Matriarch Wei reached out shakily, wanting to touch the child, but she was worried that she would scare him.

When Erhu saw his brother enter, he climbed in too.

When Matriarch Wei saw another little bean, she became even more excited. “This is…

Erhu said crisply, “I'm Erhu.”

Xiaohu turned around. His brothers had all disappeared. He stopped playing with the stone lion and came in to look for his brothers.

He didn't climb as hard.

He threw his small body against the door sill and rolled into it.

Matriarch Wei was shocked, afraid that the little guy would break his body. Matriarch Wei quickly asked, “This is Xiaohu, right?”

Xiao Hu quickly got up from the ground and pattered to his father and brother's side. He patted his chest. “That's right, I'm Xiaohu!” “Greet your great-grandma,” Wei Ting said.

The three of them obediently greeted their great-grandmother.

“Aye!” Tears flickered in Matriarch Wei's eyes.

How could she still have the dignity of a Matriarch at this moment?

She was completely like a little old lady who could not walk after seeing her great-grandsons.

“Daddy, where is this?” Xiaohu looked up and asked.

Wei Ting did not answer.

On the other hand, Matriarch Wei said in a trembling voice, “It's your home!”

The three of them shook their heads.

Dahu said, “This isn't our home.”

Erhu said, “Our house is in Pear Blossom Alley.”

Xiaohu echoed, “Pear Blossom Alley!”

Their mother was in Pear Blossom Alley, their grandfather was in Pear Blossom Alley, and their uncle was in Pear Blossom Alley.

Everyone was in Pear Blossom Alley.

Matriarch Wei hurriedly said, “This is your house… You guys come home…”

The three of them retreated in unison and hid behind Wei Ting.

maonu rmseu ms neau anu asKeu, ••vvno IS uns great-granumocner: IS sne not letting us go home?”

Wei Ting patted the three of them on the shoulders. “No. Go out and play for a while. Daddy will bring you home later. Yuchi Xiu!”

Yuchi Xiu came over and brought the three little fellows out.

Matriarch Wei realized that she had lost her composure just now. She took a
deep breath to calm herself down and said, “Let them return to the residence.” If she could tolerate it when she did not see them, how could she bear to send them away when she saw them?

Wei Ting sighed. “I'm afraid they can't come back now.”

Matriarch Wei frowned. “Are you worried that the residence is not safe? I'll send more people—”

“It's not that.” Wei Ting told him about Concubine Xian looking for Old Master Su to testify about his whereabouts, but he turned Su Xiaoxiao's idea into his.

Matriarch Wei's face darkened. “What do you mean?”

Wei Ting raised his head to look at the moon. “What I mean is that… she has already passed the path in front of the emperor. The sons are hers. If you want Dahu, Erhu, and Xiaohu to return to the Wei family, I can only marry her. I have to marry her in the name of the main wife. Otherwise, the Dahu and the others will be the sons of a concubine.” Matriarch Wei was speechless..

Chapter 293

The three little ones squatted in the courtyard to catch crickets.

It was dark. No one knew how they saw the crickets.

Xiaohu caught a big one and came over to show it off to his brothers.

Unexpectedly, compared to Dahu and Erhu, the younger brother was still the younger brother.

Xiaohu was unhappy and shook his head. “Hmph, I won't catch it anymore! I'll go ride a horse!”

The stone lion was too tall for him to climb up. He used his hands and feet, sweating profusely.

It was Dahu and Erhu who came over. The two brothers supported his butt with all their might and pushed him up.

Xiaohu rode the mighty and domineering stone lion in satisfaction and shook his head proudly.

“Dahu, Erhu, come over too!”

Sometimes he addressed them as his brothers, sometimes by name.

The small ancestral hall was remote and there were no unrelated people around. Other than the white-robed man, the secret guard, and Yuchi Xiu, there was only an old nanny who had served Matriarch Wei for many years.

“The young masters are so lively.” the old nanny said. The secret guard said, “It wasn't like this in the past.”

The old nanny looked at him in confusion.

The secret guard deliberated for a moment and felt that the old nanny was one of them and could be trusted, so he told her about the young masters' past he had heard from Yuchi Xiu. “At first, it was very tragic… especially tragic… They were as thin as monkeys… They didn't say anything when they met people…”

The three little ones were tired of playing and began to look for Su Xiaoxiao. The three of them walked in and grabbed Wei Ting's hand. “I want Mother.” Wei Ting remained silent and looked at Matriarch Wei silently.

Old Madam Wei said kindly to the three little ones, “Sleep in Great-Grandma's room, okay? Great-Grandma's room has a lot of delicious food and fun things. Whatever you want, Great-Grandma will get it for you.”

“I want mother,” Dahu said.

“Mother,” Erhu said.

Xiaohu was about to cry.

Although they had fun during the day and were fine with anyone, they only wanted Su Xiaoxiao at night.

Wei Ting had spent a lot of effort to bring them out tonight.

“Mother…”

The three of them wanted Su Xiaoxiao, and there was a weak cry in their voices. Their little heads rubbed against Wei Ting's legs anxiously.

Xiaohu began to scratch his head.

Looking at the three of them's uncomfortable and aggrieved expressions, Matriarch Wei's heart ached.

In the end, Matriarch Wei let Wei Ting leave with them.

Looking at the disappearing figures in the night, Old Madam Wei did not retract her gaze for a long time.

Nanny Li brought a cloak to Matriarch Wei's side. “It's cold at night. Be careful not to catch a cold.”

Nanny Li draped the cloak over Old Madam Wei.

Matriarch Wei's eyes flickered. “The children are so strong, like calves.” Nanny Li said, “I heard that when Young Master first found them, they almost died.”

Old Madam Wei frowned.

Nanny Li said, “Young Master probably didn't want you to be sad, so he didn't tell you. When Young Master found them in a cellar, the wet nurse was already dead. The three of them were lying beside the corpse. I don't know how long they've been hungry for, but they were only left with their last breath.” Old Madam Wei's heart clenched.

Nanny Li said in a low voice, “After coming out, the three young masters were stunned like three frightened quails. They were not strong and were only skin and bones. Their behavior… was also different from ordinary children.”

“After Young Master was by their side for a while, they improved a little, but they only became normal after he found them a stepmother.” Old Madam Wei frowned. “You mean that girl from the Qin family?”

Nanny Li nodded. “That's her.”

Matriarch Wei snorted coldly. “Hmph, did that kid deliberately get someone to fabricate these for you to hear? He wants to use you to blow the wind beside my
ear! ”

Nanny Li said, “Matriarch, Fu Su is your person.”

Fu Su was the secret guard driving the carriage beside Wei Ting.

Old Madam Wei said with a dark expression, “He has long sided with outsiders. If he was really on my side, would he have hidden that girl's background? If not for the Third Prince secretly letting me know, I wouldn't have known that my grandson had married the enemy's flesh and blood!”

Nanny Li hesitated for a moment and said, “Third Prince has ulterior motives.”

Matriarch Wei said without thinking, “Of course, he doesn't have good intentions. There's no need for him to sow discord. The hatred of killing my husband is irreconcilable. I won't let my grandson marry the Qin family's girl for the sake of military power! I can't sacrifice my grandson!”

Nanny Li muttered to herself, “It's not a sacrifice. Young Master is quite willing…

Nanny Li sighed. “What about the young masters? If we really let her marry someone else, will the young masters be given the surname of someone else and call someone else Dad?”

Matriarch Wei's fatal point was hit.

Early the next morning, Emperor Jing Xuan summoned Qin Canglan to the palace again.

Qin Canglan sighed. “I didn't know that Your Majesty had such an intimate relationship with me.”

Emperor Jing Xuan was speechless.

Emperor Jing Xuan had called Qin Canglan over to discuss the matter of the Protector Duke's Estate.

He first asked for some details about Su Xiaoxiao in the countryside, especially about Mr. Wei.

Su MO had long sent Qin Canglan Old Master Su's “confession”, so Qin Canlan naturally would not answer wrongly.

Emperor Jing Xuan continued, “Since she was married, why didn't you bring him along when you entered the capital? Could it be that… your son doesn't want this son-in-law anymore?”

Qin Canglan could only wish that were the case. He couldn't wait for Su Cheng to chase that kid from the Wei family out of the house.

However, things did not go according to his wishes. He was the one who was chased out.

Qin Canglan had a regretful expression. “It's not that they don't want to take care of him, but he's sick and can't travel. He's recuperating in the countryside.”

“Is it that serious?” Emperor Jing Xuan asked. Qin Canglan sighed. “Yes, he might go one day.”

He really wanted to strangle Wei Ting to death.

Seeing that the topic was getting heavier, Emperor Jing Xuan stopped. He changed the topic and said, “I want to see your son.”

Qin Canglan's mood fell. “Your Majesty, my son once witnessed his biological mother's tragic death and can't recall that past until now. I don't want him to be agitated and have yet to acknowledge him.”

If Emperor Jing Xuan was a tyrant, he could have invited Su Cheng into the palace.

However, he was a wise ruler. It was not good to force this situation.

Emperor Jing Xuan said, “Then it won't be too late to bring him to the palace for me to see after you have reunited.”

Qin Canglan cupped his hands and said, “Yes, Your Majesty.”

Emperor Jing Xuan glanced at him. “You won't make me wait too long, right?” Qin Canglan paused and said, “No.”

“That's good,” Emperor Jing Xuan said. “Your biological son is the Protector Duke. I won't withdraw this imperial edict. However, Su Cheng has grown up among the commoners. I'm afraid it's difficult for him to become an official in the court. What do you think?”

Qin Canglan's eyes moved as he cupped his hands and said, “Your Majesty is right.”

After leaving the palace, Qin Canglan went to the Marquis of Zhenbei's Estate and told the Old Marquis about the conversation in the imperial study.

Emperor Jing Xuan spoke very vaguely, but Qin Canglan was not stupid. Generals just did not like to play tricks, but it did not mean that they were not capable of doing so.

What Emperor Jing Xuan meant was that Su Cheng would be an idle Duke and not have to worry about food and clothing for the rest of his life. The military power would continue to be handed over to Qin Jiang.

The Qin family had earned military power with blood and tears. Instead of handing it to others, it was better to hand it to his brother. After all, Qin Jiang was of the Qin family's bloodline.

In addition, Qin Jiang had also been nurtured as the heir for many years.

“You agreed?” the Old Marquis asked.

Qin Canglan said seriously, “Of course not! Even if Cheng'er grew up in the countryside and has never learned the art of war, am I not still alive? I can teach him! If Cheng'er refuses to learn, there's still Ergou! You don't know how fierce Ergou is!”

The Old Marquis had only been to Pear Blossom Lane once and had not spoken much to Su Ergou. At this moment, he could not help but be jealous of Qin Canglan.

When he recovered, he would definitely steal the children into the residence!

He could teach them too!

The Old Marquis asked, “Did His Majesty agree?”

Qin Canglan said, “His Majesty didn't agree.”

The Old Marquis wondered if Qin Canglan spent a long time talking in vain and panicked. “How did His Majesty decide?”

Qin Canglan sighed. “His Majesty said that at my age, it is unknown how many years I can teach Cheng'er. I said that if I'm gone, there's still you. If you're gone, there's still Su Yuan. In the end, someone can teach Cheng'er. His Majesty said that he firmly believes in my abilities, but he's not sure if Su

Cheng is a talent that can be taught?”

The Old Marquis was unhappy. “Why not? Cheng'er was very smart when he was young!”

Chapter 294

This competition seemed to be giving Su Cheng a chance, but it was actually preparing for Qin Jiang's return.

After Qin Jiang's background spread, he would definitely be questioned by the world. However, if Qin Jiang could defeat Qin Canglan's legitimate son and prove with his strength that he was more qualified to inherit real power than Su Cheng, those who doubted him could only shut up obediently.

After all, it was not that the emperor did not give his legitimate son a chance.

It was because the legitimate son was disappointing.

Even if he asked Zhuge Liang to teach him, he would not be able to do anything.

The old marquis was puzzled. “Why is His Majesty suddenly so biased towards Qin Jiang?”

Qin Canglan frowned and said, “The Mighty Marquis entered the palace to see His Majesty last night.”

He was referring to Marquis Jing Shengming, Jing Yi's grandfather, and Xiao Zhonghua's grandfather.

Qin Canglan continued, “I guess he persuaded His Majesty to temporarily hand the military power to Qin Jiang.”

“Jing Shengming, that old fox!” The Old Marquis clenched his fists. “What are your plans next? Are you really going to let Cheng'er compete with Qin Jiang in a month? You should know that Cheng'er has no chance of winning.”

The Old Marquis did not ask what the competition was.

unless Luey collipeueu 111 coomng, Du Elleng VVdS 110L Jldllgs 111dLC11. Qin Canglan said that Qin Jiang was weak. However, that comparison was made with himself. What kind of abnormal expert was Qin Canglan? How many people were not weak in front of him?

Indeed, Qin Jiang's potential was not considered top-notch, but the efforts of the two estates were spent nurturing him for 20 years. No matter how talented Su Cheng was, it was impossible for him to catch up to him in a month. The Old Marquis asked, “Must it be Cheng'er?”

Qin Canglan thought for a moment. “Ergou is fine too. He's Cheng'er's son. If he can defeat Qin Jiang, His Majesty should have nothing to say. But Ergou is only fourteen… How can he be Qin Jiang's match?”

The Old Marquis's expression turned solemn. “Old Qin, we can't hand over our military power. ”

Qin Canglan nodded. “I understand.”

If they handed it over, the Qin family would be the next Wei family.

The Old Marquis closed his eyes. “Try your best to teach Cheng'er this month. If it really comes to that… I'll pass on Fifth Brother to Cheng'er!” On the way back to the capital, Fifth Brother sneezed fiercely!

This was the second time in a month that he sneezed wildly.

Was his family talking too much about him?

Su Cheng did not know that he was about to be ravaged by two big shots. It was not dawn yet. With dark circles under his eyes, he went to the kitchen to help his daughter.

Yesterday, another business came from Spring Breeze Restaurant. This time, it was not for Su Cheng's face. The snacks made by Su Xiaoxiao last time were really too popular.

The girls of Spring Breeze Restaurant were still complaining that it was not Su Cheng who delivered the goods and were determined never to do his business again. Unexpectedly, they were slapped in the face a few days later.

Su Xiaoxiao promised to supply 200 every day, starting at the beginning of April.

Coincidentally, Su Ergou went to school on the first of April, so he naturally couldn't help Su Xiaoxiao.

“Dad, why are you so early?” In the kitchen, Su Xiaoxiao, who was kneading dough, looked up and saw Su Cheng walking in with sleepy eyes. Su Cheng yawned. “I'll make snacks with you.”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “No need. It's only 200. I can do it. Go sleep.”

Su Cheng shook his head like a rattle drum and patted his face to wake up. “I'll sleep later.”

He refused to leave no matter what, so Su Xiaoxiao could only agree to stay and help.

Although he usually slacked off, that was because Wei Ting and Su Ergou were around. He could count on his son-in-law and son to do it.

When he was the only helper left beside Su Xiaoxiao, he still worked hard.

His face was dark from the stove ash.

“Eh? Didn't you only need to make 200?” He had just counted and they had made enough, but his daughter went to knead new dough.

Su Xiaoxiao placed the kneaded dough into the alms bowl to raise it. “Ergou is growing and gets hungry quickly. I'll make a few boxes of snacks for him.” Su Cheng's nose suddenly felt sour.

The two children grew up without their mother… his daughter was so sensible that it made one's heart ache.

Su Xiaoxiao didn't know what Father Su was thinking. She cut a batch of dried plum vegetables. “I made some for Dad too.”

“Huh?” Su Cheng did not react. “Why are you cooking for me? I don't have to worry about food at home.”

His gaze landed on a few exquisite wooden bowls with lids. “What are these

Su Xiaoxiao said, “They're for Dahu, Erhu, and Xiaohu.”

The little fellows liked to choose cutlery when eating, so Su Cheng did not take it to heart.

After breakfast, Su MO and his two brothers came.

Su Qi and Su Yu were also studying in the Directorate. When the two of them learned that Su Ergou was also going to enter the Directorate, they had to follow no matter what..

Chapter 295

The three little ones played in the courtyard.

Su MO was a regular guest at home. The three little ones were familiar with him, but Su Yu and Su Qi were unfamiliar faces.

They had only visited them once in the countryside and had never spoken to the three little ones. Therefore, the three little ones did not remember them at all.

“Who are you?” Erhu asked.

“Are you bad people?” Xiaohu asked.

The two brothers were amused.

Su Qi asked in amusement, “Do we look like bad people?”

Xiaohu tilted his head and sized them up seriously.

Erhu said calmly, “We can't tell.”

After thinking for a moment, Erhu said, “My Little Stone knows bad people.”

Su Qi and Su Yu smiled at the same time.

Su Yu smiled and said, “Is that so? Let me see your stone.”

Erhu took out his beloved stone. “Here, touch it and it will know if you're a bad person.”

Su Yu touched it.

It was just an ordinary pebble. There was nothing special about it.

The little guy was a little poor. Should big brother give him a real gem next time?

No, he wasn't their brother. He was their uncle.

“Now that I've touched it, how does it know if I'm a bad person?” Su Yu said.

Erhu said seriously, “Bad people touch for free. They don't pay.”

Su Yu was speechless.

Regarding Su Ergou's education, Su Xiaoxiao informed him frankly that it was the people from the Marquis of Zhenbei who helped.

Su Cheng was very enthusiastic about the people from the Marquis of Zhenbei's Estate and treated the three brothers to the sweet potatoes he had roasted this morning.

Su MO shared his sweet potatoes with his two younger brothers.

Su Qi and Su Yu wanted to imitate Kong Rong giving in to his brothers.

Su MO activated his eldest brother's pressure. “An elder brother is like a father. You can't refuse a gift from an elder.”

Hence, after being robbed by Erhu, the two brothers encountered Su Cheng's dark cuisine.

It was really heartbreaking.

On the other side, after being taught a lesson by Princess Jing Ning, Qin Yun, who had been lying in bed for almost half a month, finally recovered.

Today was also the day he returned to school.

Ever since his father lost Qin Che's identity, not only did Qin Jiang move out of the main courtyard, but he and Qin Yanran also moved to the West Mansion with their parents.

Although it was also in the Protectorate, it was not on the central axis. The current courtyard was half the size of the former one, and there were fewer than ten servants.

How could Qin Yun, who was used to living a good life, endure this grievance?

It was either that the house was dark or that the food tasted bad.

The servants did not spoil him either. He could choose not too eat or stay.

Did he really think he was still a little prince? “Hmph!”

Qin Yun got into the carriage angrily.

Even the carriage was no longer as spacious and bright as before.

It was small and cramped. There was not even a piece of tiger skin on the stool, making his butt hurt.

“Dad, Sister.”

He sat down opposite the two of them aggrievedly and began to complain about their neglect.

Qin Jiang sat on a stool facing the carriage curtain, and the siblings sat on both sides.

Compared to Qin Yun, who kept complaining, Qin Yanran was much more sensible.

When she first found out about her father's background, she suffered a huge blow. She could not accept that she had changed from the high and mighty daughter of the Duke's Estate to the daughter of a bastard.

She cried secretly for a few nights.

Fortunately, her father had told her that their bitter days would be over soon.

“When Dad takes back the military power, the true heir of the Qin family will still be Dad! That legitimate son can only use his title!”

Her father's words successfully comforted her.

She believed that with her father's ability, he would never lose to a farmer who grew up in the countryside.

The hardship in front of her was temporary. Before long, she would be the envied number one daughter of the capital again. The carriage stopped at the entrance of the Directorate.

“Study hard,” Qin Jiang said to Qin Yun.

Qin Yun muttered, “I don't want to go to class…'

Qin Yun was not a diligent person. Be it studying or practicing martial arts, he could always find various excuses to absolve himself.

In the past, Qin Jiang might not have been able to be ruthless. Now that he felt a sense of crisis, Qin Jiang decided not to spoil him anymore.

“It's fine if you don't want to go. Pack your things and get lost in the countryside! Don't even think about coming to the capital for the rest of your life!”

Qin Yun's face turned pale from fear.

Qin Yanran mediated and said to Qin Yun, “Go. I'll pick you up later.”

Qin Yun picked up his book bag and left with a pale face.

Looking at his son's red eyes when he got out of the car, Qin Jiang regretted it again.

He blamed himself. “Do you think I went overboard too?”

Qin Yanran shook her head gently. “Father is doing this for my brother's own good.”

Qin Jiang nodded in relief. “Father suffered too much when he was young, so I thought that I definitely couldn't let you and Yun'er suffer anymore. I didn't expect that I would be too indulgent and spoil Yun'er. Fortunately, you've always been very sensible.”

Qin Yanran said softly, “Brother is just still young. When he's older, he'll naturally be sensible.”

Qin Jiang sighed. “I hope so. Teach him more in the future.”

Qin Yanran agreed. “I will, Father.”

Qin Jiang said in satisfaction, “Let's go. I'll send you to learn the zither.”

Qin Yanran said nothing.

“What's wrong?” Qin Jiang sensed his daughter's low mood.

Qin Yanran asked melancholically, “Father, can I still marry the Third Prince? The servants are all saying that the Third Prince's fiancée is that young lady from the commoners…

Qin Jiang said coldly, “Nonsense! How can a wild girl who grew up in the countryside be worthy of the Third Prince? Only a talented and beautiful woman like my daughter is qualified to be a Princess Consort!”

Qin Yanran bit her lip. “But Father…”

Qin Jiang said seriously, “No buts. She's already married in the countryside and has three sons. The Third Prince won't even look at her! Don't worry, Dad will definitely obtain military power! I'll let you marry into the royal family in glory! ”

Just as he finished speaking.

Boom!

The carriage was hit hard by something.

Qin Jiang hurriedly lifted the small curtain at the back of the carriage and saw a handsome face.

Wei Ting was dressed in black brocade clothes and was riding on a tall horse. The corners of his lips curled up slightly, and he emitted the unruliness and arrogance of a demon king.

Qin Jiang frowned. “Wei Ting?”

“Yo.” Wei Ting sneered at Qin Jiang and casually grabbed a passing young man.

He pointed with his horsewhip. “Help me take a look. Is this the carriage of the Protectorate?”

The young man nodded in shock. “Uh… Yes… Yes!”

Wei Ting let go of the young man and smiled arrogantly. “Then I didn't hit the wrong person.”

Could it be that this kid had seen his carriage and hit it?

Qin Jiang said in a low voice, “What do you want to do?”

Wei Ting held the horsewhip in his hand and gently knocked his shoulder. He said arrogantly, “A good dog doesn't block the way.”

Qin Jiang said coldly, “The road is so wide. Who's blocking your path.. ' No, who the hell was a dog?!

“Wei Ting, don't be too arrogant. Do you really think the capital is…” Before Qin Jiang could finish, Wei Ting tightened his reins and rode his horse over!

With a loud bang, dust flew. The horse's iron hooves broke through Qin Jiang's carriage.

The horse pulling the cart was shocked and suddenly ran forward.

Qin Jiang lost his balance and fell to the ground.

“Father!”

Qin Yanran's face turned pale!

She wanted to grab him, but it was too late.

She watched as her father fell awkwardly into a pile of shattered wood…

The wooden pieces cut his flesh.

However, this was not the most terrifying because in the next second…

Crack!

Qin Jiang's ribs were broken..

Chapter 296

The youngest son of the Wei family rode his horse on the streets and deliberately murdered the former Protector Duke!

As soon as this news spread, it immediately caused a huge commotion in the capital.

As soon as Emperor Jing Xuan got off the court, he received a report from the Imperial Capital.

Ordinary cases would not be exposed to the Imperial Court, but wasn't this extraordinary?

On one side was Qin Canglan's son… No, his illegitimate brother, and on the other side was Lord Wu An's youngest grandson.

The two of them were officials of the Imperial Court. Moreover, they were both at home for some reason that could only be understood but not explained. When the official brought them into the capital, the capital magistrate had a headache!

Who was so blind to invite these two Buddhas?

News of Qin Jiang's background spread throughout the capital. Logically speaking, since he was not the legitimate son of the eldest branch but Qin Feng's illegitimate son, his status should have plummeted.

However, Emperor Jing Xuan seemed to want to hand over military power to him.

This was something that could not be weighed.

At any time, real power was better than an empty status.

The capital magistrate could not afford to offend anyone. He made up his mind and came to look for Emperor Jing Xuan.

Emperor Jing Xuan also had a headache.

The Wei family was King Nanyang's old subordinate. He had always treated the Wei family coldly and never summoned Wei Ting easily.

However, ever since Wei Ting returned from the temple, he entered the palace every other day and relied on causing trouble to become his “favored minister”.

Even in the court this morning, a few royalist officials who did not like the Wei family openly asked Wei Ting when he would return to the army…

Emperor Jing Xuan really wanted to draw a line with Wei Ting. He looked at Wei Ting and Qin Jiang impatiently.

Qin Jiang's body was wrapped in thick gauze, and his face was bruised. He looked terrible.

Emperor Jing Xuan asked with a headache, “What's the reason this time?”

Qin Jiang said bitterly, “Your Majesty! Please uphold justice for me!”

Wei Ting looked like a sloppy evil ruffian, but he was handsome. No matter how profligate he was, he still looked heroic.

Emperor Jing Xuan asked, “Did you do it?”

“Oh, it was me,” Wei Ting admitted generously.

The capital magistrate watched the two of them fight from the side. He did not dare to say a word.

Unlike the officials of other aristocratic families, he was born in the countryside and had no power or influence. It was not easy for him to reach this position. He did not want to die as soon as he took office.

Emperor Jing Xuan asked sternly, “What do you want to do? Kill an official of the Imperial Court on the streets?”

Wei Ting smiled faintly. “If I wanted to kill him, he would be a corpse by the time he is carried to His Majesty.”

Emperor Jing Xuan was speechless.

These words were too arrogant.

However, it was the truth.

Wei Ting was a killing god in King Hulie's military camp. If he really wanted to take Qin Jiang's life, Qin Jiang would not have survived until now.

Emperor Jing Xuan frowned and said, “Then say something. Why did you do this to him?”

“He scolded me,” Wei Ting said. “A scholar can be killed but not humiliated. I only kicked his carriage over. It's enough to save him some dignity.”

Qin Jiang gritted his teeth and said, “You only kicked over the carriage? My bones are broken!”

Wei Ting said casually, “I won't be injured if I fall from the carriage. Are you blaming me for being weak?”

Qin Jiang fell back in anger!

Therefore, there was a reason why Yuchi Xiu was arrogant.

Qin Jiang clenched his fists and tried not to be led by the nose by Wei Ting. “You just said that I scolded you. How did I scold you? What did I scold you about?”

Wei Ting snorted, looking like he wanted to ignore Qin Jiang.

Emperor Jing Xuan said in a low voice, “Speak!”

Wei Ting said unwillingly, “He scolded me. A good dog doesn't block the way.”

Qin Jiang was simply stunned!

Wasn't this what Qin Jiang was scolded by Wei Ting for?

Who was scolding whom?

Also, was this considered calling himself a dog…

When he was ruthless, would he not even let himself off?

Could he be any more shameless?!

Qin Jiang exploded. “I didn't say that! You said it!”

Wei Ting said calmly, “My subordinate heard it, Yuchi Xiu.”

Yuchi Xiu, who was waiting outside the imperial study, flashed and arrived at the door.

He looked at Qin Jiang and said expressionlessly, “That's right, I heard you.

That's what you said!”

Bullshit. He wasn't even there.

Qin Jiang gritted his teeth. “I didn't see you!”

Yuchi Xiu said righteously, “I'm a secret guard. If you see me, I don't have to work anymore! ”

Qin Jiang was about to vomit blood.

If the upper beam was not upright, the lower beam would be crooked. This master and servant were both shameless!

Qin Jiang's lungs were about to explode. “Your Majesty! I swear to the heavens that I definitely didn't say that…”

Wei Ting said solemnly, “I can also swear in my father's name.”

Qin Jiang couldn't take it anymore. “Your father is already dead!”

Wei Ting looked at him with a hurt expression. “So is Mr. Qin bullying me for being a fatherless child?” Qin Jiang choked.

No…

What did this have to do with anything? How did this happen?

And… did he call himself a child?

Wasn't he in his twenties?

Wasn't he ashamed to say that he was a child?

Wei Ting lowered his eyes and sighed melancholically. “I know that our Wei family is not as good as before. Everyone wants to step on me. If he really fights with me, I respect him for being a man. What's so good about angering

Wei Ting spoke clearly. If Qin Jiang wasn't the plaintiff, he would have believed him.

Qin Jiang was so angry that his head was buzzing. “Nonsense! I clearly didn't anger you! You were the one who came up and hit my carriage! As if one hit wasn't enough, you hit it a second time!”

Wei Ting said innocently, “Mr. Qin, if you hadn't angered me, I wouldn't have bumped into so many people on the streets, but you. Why would I have nothing to do? Or… did Mr. Qin do something wrong to me recently that I want to take revenge on you?”

“You…”

Qin Jiang choked and blushed.

Hearing this, what else did he not understand?

Wei Ting was taking revenge!

He had clearly guessed that he was behind Consort Xian testifying against him.

But he couldn't admit it.

Otherwise, compared to scolding and angering Wei Ting, he could not afford to be accused of colluding with the emperor's concubine.

Qin Jiang was definitely going to suffer this loss.

It was wrong for Qin Jiang to spout nonsense, and it was even more wrong for Wei Ting to beat someone up on the streets. Emperor Jing Xuan punished Wei Ting to reflect on his mistakes behind closed doors for a month and fined him for half a year.

Wei Ting looked a little aggrieved. “I admit it. Can you not punish me?” Emperor Jing Xuan asked, “Why? Are you short of money?”

“I'm very short.” Wei Ting glanced at Qin Jiang without changing his expression. “After all, I'm not like Mr. Qin who can casually acknowledge a wild father.”

Qin Jiang was speechless.

After having a rib broken by Wei Ting, Qin Jiang was made to vomit blood.

Qin Jiang was carried out.

Emperor Jing Xuan did not want to see Wei Ting again.

“Stand down too!” he said in a low voice.

Wei Ting refused to leave. “Then my salary…”

Emperor Jing Xuan suppressed his anger. “No punishment!”

Emperor Jing Xuan only wanted this little troublemaker to leave quickly! Out of sight, out of mind!

Wei Ting had no intention of leaving. “Your Majesty, you don't look too good.” Emperor Jing Xuan muttered, “Isn't that because of you?”

Wei Ting said seriously, “Your Majesty is depressed. I should help you solve your problems.”

“Why don't I believe it?”

An ominous feeling surged in Emperor Jing Xuan's heart…

Wei Ting said, “I learned some Buddhist scriptures in the temple. Let me read you a Buddhist scripture.”

As he spoke, he naturally took out a wooden fish from his wide sleeve.

Emperor Jing Xuan's eyebrows twitched!

Fifteen minutes later, Wei Ting swaggered out of the palace with the 3,000 taels of silver he had obtained..

Chapter 297

Pear Blossom Lane.

After Su Ergou went to school, Su Xiaoxiao took out three small book bags that she had sewn and hung them on the shoulders of the three little ones.

There were no books in the book bag, only a box of snacks, a bottle of water, and a sweat towel she had cut herself.

Today was also the day for the three little ones to learn from their master.

“Dad, we'll go out first. You don't have to lock the door later. I'll be back soon.”

Su Cheng thought to himself that of course, he wouldn't lock the door. He wasn't not going out…

As soon as this thought flashed through his mind, Qin Canglan appeared at the door.

The Old Marquis, who was pushed in a wheelchair, came over with him.

“Aye?”

Su Cheng looked at Qin Canglan and then at Su Yuan's father, not understanding why the two of them were together.

He scratched his head. “Um, you guys…”

Before he could ask clearly, the Old Marquis stood up from the wheelchair and came to Su Cheng with Qin Canglan. Each of them held one of Su Cheng's arms.

Su Cheng glared. “What are you doing?”

The two of them dragged him into the carriage.

The Old Marquis sat back in his wheelchair.

He glanced at the empty courtyard and walked over to get the lunch box on the table before continuing to sit in the wheelchair.

The snacks Su Xiaoxiao prepared for Su Cheng were finally useful.

Su Xiaoxiao led the three little ones to the courtyard at the east end.

Knock, Imock, knock.

Su Xiaoxiao knocked on the door.

It was Deng An who opened the door.

Ling Yun was also there.

It was unknown if he had just woken up or if he had not slept all night, but his long hair was loose and he looked a little sick.

However, he was not really sick. It was just that he did not eat well all year round, so he was very weak.

“Mrs. Su!” Deng An was surprised.

The title of Madam Su was a mistake.

Deng An asked Dahu's name. Dahu said it was Dahu, but he asked what his surname was. His full name.

Dahu thought for a moment. “Su Dahu.”

Su Cheng had indeed named the three little ones like this back then.

One was called Su Dahu, one was called Su Erhu, and the other was called Su Xiaohu.

However, everyone seemed to have neglected that surname. Only Dahu remembered it.

Deng An tnougnt tnat su xlaoxlao's nusDana•s surname was su.

“Mrs. Su?” Su Xiaoxiao was even more surprised than Deng An.

Deng An said, “Is this… wrong? Your husband's surname is Su. If I don't call you

Madam Su, what should I call you?”

Su Xiaoxiao nodded. “My husband's surname is Wei.” Deng An was speechless.

Su Xiaoxiao expressed her intentions to Ling Yun.

“It's fine if you accept one. Dahu and Erhu are also very talented.”

Ling Yun looked at the three children standing in a row with a book bag on their backs.

He was about to refuse.

Su Xiaoxiao took out a large box of freshly baked snacks. “Freshly made date bean cake and soufflé.”

Looking at the smooth, fragrant, and non-greasy snacks, Ling Yun's tongue was tied into a knot. He swallowed his rejection along with his saliva.

Ling Yun, who had sworn not to take in any disciples in his life, finally sold his integrity for two boxes of snacks.

When Master Zhang came out after washing up, he realized that Ling Yun had three more last disciples.

Due to the commotion created by Wei Ting, Qin Yanran's arrival was also delayed. She arrived at Pear Blossom Lane an hour later than usual. After confirming that everything was fine, Su Xiaoxiao prepared to go home.

The two of them bumped into each other at the door.

The last time they met was at the Marquis of Zhenbei's Estate. At that time, Qin Yanran was the high and mighty daughter of the Duke's Protector and called the Old Marquis Grandpa, while Su Xiaoxiao was only the disciple of a doctor who lived among the commoners.

The difference in their identities was like heaven and earth.

However, who would have thought that in just half a month, that chubby little doctor girl would snatch everything that belonged to her and replace her to become the eldest daughter of the Protectorate?

Qin Yanran's expression was extremely complicated.

Su Xiaoxiao's reaction was much fainter.

She glanced at Qin Yanran with expressionless eyes, as if Qin Yanran was nothing to her.

In fact, that was indeed the case.

Compared to being tit for tat, being ignored was the most unacceptable.

Qin Yanran stopped Su Xiaoxiao. “Wait.” Su Xiaoxiao turned to look at Qin Yanran. “What's wrong?”

Qin Yanran opened her mouth. “You…”

She was momentarily at a loss for words.

Su Xiaoxiao thought for a moment and said, “You want to ask about the Old Marquis's condition?”

A trace of embarrassment flashed across Qin Yanran's face.

Su Xiaoxiao's eyes faded. “Looks like not.” Then there was nothing to say.

She was not familiar with Qin Yanran.

Was there going to be a hypocritical acknowledgment?

She didn't even acknowledge Qin Canglan. Would she recognize an unrelated Qin Yanran?

Seeing her turn around and leave, Qin Yanran, who had never been ignored like this, suddenly felt aggrieved.

“It's not my fault!”

She was born and raised in the Qin family and was raised as Qin Canglan's granddaughter. She knew nothing about the grudges of the previous generation.

She had never framed anyone.

Why did this rich young lady give her a hard time the moment she returned?

The more Qin Yanran spoke, the more she felt that she had been wronged.

“We've already moved out of our original courtyard and moved into the remote and cold West Manor. I've been pointed at by the servants all day long… Do you know how those people criticize us behind our backs?”

“Why should I know?” Su Xiaoxiao interrupted her calmly. 'What does your life have to do with me?”

Qin Yanran choked. “You…”

Su Xiaoxiao said calmly, “Don't say that you're innocent. I'm not obliged to sympathize with you, nor can I.”

Was it aggrieved to move into the West Mansion? Her father ate tree bark, ate Guanyin clay, slept in the cowshed, and worked hard everywhere at a young age. Who would feel sorry for his grievances?

Ergou grew up hungry and was very satisfied with any food he was given.

“You took a huge advantage and still have the cheek to cry in front of me. Who gave you the cheek?”

Qin Yanran was dumbfounded!

The daughters of the capital were full of twists and turns. If they did not say anything, it would seem that they were not knowledgeable enough.

Su Xiaoxiao's straightforwardness was like a sharp knife that cut through all her hypocrisy.

Qin Yanran had never seen such a scene. She couldn't find her voice for a long time.

Su Xiaoxiao continued, “You keep saying that it's not your fault, so why are you running to me now? Are you trying to tell me that I 'accidentally' hurt an innocent daughter like you? Should I feel guilty? Should I not be at peace? Why don't you go to heaven?”

The daughters of the capital cherished their reputation very much. Wasn't she afraid that her reputation would be bad if word got out that she was so aggressive?

Or was she from the countryside and only knew such vulgar words?

Qin Yanran's face was pale. “You… you can't talk to me like that… I'm your aunt!”

That's right. Even if she was not the eldest daughter of the Duke's Protector, her seniority was still higher than hers!

“Mother!”

The three little ones only heard Su Xiaoxiao's voice and came out to look for her again.

Su Xiaoxiao touched their heads. “Aren't you in class? Why did you run out?”

Dahu said, “I miss my mother.”

Erhu said, “Erhu misses mother too.”

Xiaohu said, “Xiaohu misses you the most!” Su Xiaoxiao burst out laughing.

Qin Yanran looked at Su Xiaoxiao blankly.

Su Xiaoxiao was no longer as cold as when she was facing her. She looked at the three children with pure gentleness.

Wait, these little fellows were her sons?

They were inside too… going to class?

Zhang Qinshi came out.

Seeing the three children, he felt relieved. “The few of you are not allowed to run around, understand?”

“Teacher.” Qin Yanran bowed obediently.

Zhang Qinshi nodded. “Yanran is here.”

Qin Yanran asked, “Zhang Qin, did you… take in a few children as your disciples? Didn't you say that you don't take in disciples casually?”

Zhang Qinshi placed great importance on aptitude when taking in disciples.

Many descendants of powerful families wanted to engage him as their master, but he rejected them.

Moreover, he did not accept newbies. He had to have a few years of foundation.

“Ah, I didn't accept them,” Zhang Qinshi said.

Qin Yanran heaved a sigh of relief. Zhang Qinshi looked at a certain prodigal man under the corridor and said angrily, “That person accepted it.”

Qin Yanran said, “It's Senior Brother.”

“Senior Brother?” Zhang Qinshi frowned and glanced at Qin Yanran before saying, “He's not your senior brother.”

Qin Yanran was stunned.

Zhang Qinshi said, “He's my master.”

Qin Yanran was in disbelief. She stammered for a long time and looked at the three little ones. “Then they…”

Zhang Qinshi said, “They're my junior brothers and your three little Uncle-Masters

They were her little Uncle-Masters. Wasn't their mother's seniority.. equivalent to her Grandmaster?

Had… she become that girl's grandchild?!

Chapter 298

Su Xiaoxiao asked the three little ones to go in for class. The three little ones reluctantly entered the courtyard.

“Then, Mother is coming to pick us up,” Dahu said.

Su Xiaoxiao said in amusement, “Alright, I'll come over after cooking.”

They usually played around and did not ask her to pick her up.

Indeed, things were different once they went to school.

Su Xiaoxiao waved goodbye to her kindergarten children and went home to get her basket before going to the market to buy things.

Qin Yanran was stunned on the spot for a long time.

Su Ergou and Father Su would not be back for lunch, and Wei Ting would probably not be able to come back either. Only she and the three children would eat. She bought a chicken, two cabbages, and some dried plum vegetables and chestnuts.

The quality of the dried plum vegetables was not as good as Aunt Fu's.

After buying the ingredients, she went to the cloth shop again.

There were not enough clothes for the family.

Firstly, the clothes in the past were either old or small. Secondly, after coming to the capital, she did not have to work in the fields and could wear more comfortable materials.

Last time, she bought spring clothes. Su Xiaoxiao wanted summer clothes today. The lady boss remembered her and welcomed her with a smile. “Miss, you're here!”

In Great Zhou, when a woman reached the age of 15, she could tie her hair up. She did not have to marry someone to tie her hair. Therefore, it was very difficult to determine if she was married from her hairstyle.

Su Xiaoxiao looked young and the lady boss felt that she looked like a little girl,

Actually, she was not wrong. She and Wei Ting were husband and wife only in name.

No, the title of husband and wife was also in danger.

“Mr. Wei” was recuperating in the countryside.

“Do the clothes from last time still fit?” the lady boss asked with a smile.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “My husband's is a little short.”

The lady boss stammered, “Husband?”

Was this little girl married?

Su Xiaoxiao asked, “Do you have any lighter materials? I want to make a few summer clothes. ”

“Yes, yes!” The lady boss came back to her senses and took a few bolts of satin and cotton from the house. “They're all high-quality materials. They're breathable and comfortable, and they're not too expensive.”

Su Xiaoxiao went to a few cloth shops. The lady boss of this shop was the most practical in doing business.

Su Xiaoxiao carefully chose the materials for everyone.

Su Ergou and the three little ones were still growing. They had to be bigger than now. They were also in the development stage and their height had increased a little.

In addition, she was losing weight. In summer, she would lose about 120 pounds. She was not short, and her figure should be very well-proportioned then.

“I still can't lose weight too quickly. It's not good for my health.”

The last time she fell sick, it reminded Su Xiaoxiao that she couldn't lose weight too quickly. At the same time, her metabolism decreasing rapidly meant that she had lost a lot of nutrition. Even with the health supplements in the pharmacy, she couldn't be too willful.

Su Xiaoxiao thought for a moment and didn't reduce the size.

The clothes outside needed to be custom-made. There were also undergarments and footwear.

The lady boss asked Su Xiaoxiao to choose freely and she gave her three pieces.

Su Xiaoxiao went to the shelves to choose.

A new assistant was clumsy. When he moved the goods from the back, he accidentally knocked over the shelves.

The shelves in the back row pressed down on Su Xiaoxiao without warning.

Su Xiaoxiao held the undergarment with both hands. It was too late to dodge. She turned around and planned to support the shelf with her hands.

This angle was not good and her wrist might be injured.

Seeing the shelf press against her palm, suddenly, a strong palm was one step ahead of her and firmly supported the shelf.

Materials tumbled down the shelves.

The owner of the hand flashed and stood in front of Su Xiaoxiao and the material hit him.

When the lady boss heard the commotion, the ground was already in a mess.

She didn't care about her fabric immediately. Instead, she looked at the two guests. “Are you alright?”

Su Xiaoxiao turned to look at the young man in black who had blocked the shelves and fabric for her and said in surprise, “Jing Yi? Why are you here? Are you injured?”

“No.” Jing Yi pushed the shelf back and placed it firmly. “What about you?”

Su Xiaoxiao looked behind him. “You were blocking it. I'm fine.”

After confirming that the two of them were fine, the lady boss heaved a sigh of relief. She pulled out the young assistant and scolded him. As she scolded, she squatted down to clean up the mess on the ground.

When Su Xiaoxiao went to support the shelf just now, her undergarment fell to the ground. She bent down to pick it up.

“Let me do it.”

JingYi said.

Jing Yi didn't know what those pink and tender materials were. He picked them up and realized that they were undergarments.

His young and handsome face turned red to the ears.

Su Xiaoxiao couldn't help but hold onto the shelf and laugh.

Su Xiaoxiao was quite satisfied with those undergarments and bought them all.

The lady boss had already said that she would give her three pieces. After the shelf incident, she gave her five pieces in one go without asking for a single copper coin.

In addition, Su Xiaoxiao bought a few pairs of ready-made cloth shoes for the three little ones.

The small basket was full.

“I almost forgot. Ergou has to prepare a set of brushes, ink, paper, and inkstone at home for school.”

She went to buy the four treasures again.

Jing Yi carried her bag.

As long as Su Xiaoxiao turned around, she could see a handsome and cold face.

In the past, Su Xiaoxiao felt that Jing Yi and Wei Ting's personalities were very similar, but later on, she realized that was not the case.

Wei Ting's coldness carried a trace of arrogance and unruliness, and Jing Yi's coldness was a little natural.

Su Xiaoxiao rubbed her hands.

The little boy was so cute.

What Su Xiaoxiao didn't know was that Jing Yi would only show his naturally silly side in front of her.

In the alley, Wu Mu and Bai Ze followed their young marquis.

Wu Mu touched his square face and said in confusion, “What's wrong, Young Marquis? Are you so obedient?”

He felt that he almost did not know the Young Marquis!

Ebony asked, “When was the first time the Young Marquis killed someone?”

Bai Ze said, “Thirteen.”

When protecting Xiao Zhonghua, he cut off the bandit's head.

A talented general appeared in the Jing family.

Jing Yi's arms were full without any impatience.

Su Xiaoxiao finished shopping.

Jing Yi sent her home and placed everything on the table.

“I almost forgot to return this to you.”

Su Xiaoxiao took out a clean handkerchief from her pouch. “I've washed it.”

This was the handkerchief Jing Yi had handed her the last time she saved someone on the ship.

Jing Yi asked, “Have you always had it with you?”

Su Xiaoxiao nodded. “I was thinking that if I met you one day, I could return it to you.”

“Actually, there's no need to return it,” Jing Yi said softly.

He took it. There was a faint fragrance of soap on the handkerchief, the same smell as hers.

He took the handkerchief.

Su Xiaoxiao gave him another box of soufflé and date cake.

After coming out of the alley, Jing Yi bumped into Xiao Zhonghua's carriage.

He paused and got into the carriage.

Princess Hui An was also there.

Xiao Zhonghua asked, “We went to visit Grandpa today. If you weren't around, where did you go?”

“I walked around casually,” Jing Yi said.

Princess Hui An sniffed. “What fragrant snacks! I want to eat them!” Jing Yi refused.

Princess Hui An watched as Jing Yi protected the snacks in his arms and couldn't help but widen her phoenix eyes. “Jing Yi!” “Call him Cousin,” Xiao Zhonghua said to her.

Jing Yi was 17 this year and Princess Hui An was 16.

Princess Hui An curled her lips. “Cousin.”

Jing Yi hugged the snack box tightly. “No.” Princess Hui An was speechless..

Chapter 299

After sending Su Ergou to the Imperial College, Su MO went to the military camp.

He had a mission today and had to go to the west city gate to welcome the officials who had returned from West Jin.

After receiving him, he escorted the officials into the palace.

The palace of the Great Zhou was divided into the previous dynasty and the harem. The harem was the residence of Emperor Jing Xuan and his concubines. Outsiders could not easily enter.

The previous dynasty was huge. The Grand Council, the Inspectorate, the six departments, and other important offices of the Imperial Court were all there. Emperor Jing Xuan met a few officials who had returned from the imperial study trip. Su MO was also there.

Su MO was the filial eldest grandson and eldest son at home. He was a loyal minister in the court. Emperor Jing Xuan thought highly of him and asked him to listen.

In the past few years, West Jin had been cultivating and resting. They no longer fought with various countries. Peace was the most important. They also reduced taxes among the people and rewarded farming. The people lived well and handed in more taxes. The deficient treasury gradually filled up in the past two years.

In addition, West Jin had also mined a few mineral veins.

Emperor Jing Xuan sighed.

The Great Zhou was originally a rich country, but the borders were continuously burned…

It was hard for the people to fight and waste their money, but if they did not fight, it would be difficult to rule the world.

After discussing the heavy topic, the official who returned also talked about the local customs of West Jin.

“The women of West Jin are good at reading. Along the way, I saw several private schools for women.”

“Oh?” Emperor Jing Xuan was very curious.

There was no lack of talented women in the Great Zhou. For example, the daughter of the Leng family and Qin Yanran from the Protectorate were all talented women who were famous in the capital.

However, they were not going to a private school to study. Instead, they were inviting a teacher home or finding an expert to acknowledge him as their master.

It was unknown if Emperor Jing Xuan had been provoked by Wei Ting recently, but he actually decided to set up a “private school for women”.

Although it was called a private school, it was actually more like a palace school. Lessons were taught in the Supreme Harmony Hall. The main students were the royal princesses, and the accompanying students were the daughters of ministers.

Emperor Jing Xuan looked at Su Mo. “Su MO, what's your cousin's name?”

Su Daya's name appeared on the name list.

Su Xiaoxiao paused in her chopping. She lifted the lid of the pot and looked at the chicken soup that was boiling. Then, she closed the lid. “Why do I have to go too?”

“I'm also very puzzled.” Su MO sat in front of the stove and added a handful of firewood to the stove. He imitated Wei Ting's actions and used the fire tongs.

As a person, he was honest. He remembered it from the last time.

Logically speaking, Su Xiaoxiao had grown up in the countryside. Only those who were familiar with her knew if she was capable. In the eyes of ordinary people, she was illiterate and unpresentable. Was Emperor Jing Xuan making things difficult for her or the princess?

However, on second thought, Emperor Jing Xuan would not go against a little girl.

Then, there were only two possibilities.

Firstly, it was a formality to show his deep love for Qin Canglan. As for whether she would be selected, Emperor Jing Xuan did not care.

Secondly, Emperor Jing Xuan had not given up on Qin Canglan's lineage. He had made two preparations.

The Qin family's military power had to return to the royal family no matter what.

If Qin Jiang won a month later and Qin Yanran married into the royal family, everyone would be happy.

However, if Su Cheng won, it would not be a bad thing for Su Cheng's daughter to marry the Third Prince with military power.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “No way. Did they even want someone who has been married? Are your royals so not picky?”

Su MO pondered and said, “Emperor Taizu's empress is a woman from the commoners. ”

Su Xiaoxiao was enlightened. “So there's a precedent.”

Su MO paused and said, “That's just my personal guess. It might not be accurate. If you don't want to go, I'll think of a way to reject it for you.”

After Su Xiaoxiao finished cutting the garlic sprouts, she said calmly, “No need.

I'll go.”

At noon, the three little ones finished their first lesson in music. The three of them greeted Ling Yun and the others extremely politely.

“Goodbye, Teacher!” “Brother Deng An, goodbye!”

“Goodbye, Grandma Zhou!”

Madam Zhou was the chef in the courtyard.

The three of them clattered to the door and stuck their heads out to take a look. Indeed, they saw Su Xiaoxiao waiting outside.

The three of them were so happy that they pounced at Su Xiaoxiao.

“Mother!”

The three of them called her mother.

Su Xiaoxiao touched their heads one by one and asked, “Did you learn well and happily today?”

The three of them said in unison, “Happy!”

That was true. The three of them spent a pleasant morning.

In comparison, Ling Yun was very unhappy.

When Dahu was alone, he was very quiet. He could sit obediently on the cushion and listen to him play the zither for an hour.

The moment his two younger brothers arrived, Dahu's style instantly changed.

The three of them played like cats and dogs. Ling Yun did nothing for the entire morning and ran around catching his little disciples.

It was not easy for him to hold his three disciples down and teach them a finger technique.

With a flick, Xiaohu caused blood to rush to the top of Ling Yun's head!

Heavens!

The three little monkeys could cause trouble!

After half a day, Ling Yun was crippled.

Master Zhang had just finished class. When he came to Ling Yun's side, he saw Ling Yun sitting cross-legged at the door. His eyes were empty, his clothes were messy, and his hair was in all directions. His face was filled with despair.

Zhang Qinshi said, “Uh… have you been ruined?”

Ling Yun was in a daze and did not say anything.

“It's bad. The three children broke me…” Master Zhang shook his head, bowed, and began to pack the things on the ground.

Suddenly, Ling Yun said, “I'm hungry.”

Zhang Qinshi was shocked and suspected that he had heard wrongly. “What… did you just say?”

Ling Yun wasn't sure either.

He looked down at his stomach and felt it carefully. He said, “I think… I'm hungry.”

Ling Yun couldn't eat normally. However, when it was time to eat, he would force himself to stuff a few mouthfuls of food.

He had long forgotten what hunger felt like.

Even when he ate the snacks that Su Xiaoxiao sent, it was not because he was hungry, but because he could eat them and wouldn't spit out so much.

Su Ergou also spent a happy and fulfilling day in the Directorate.

Su Qi and Su Yu also went to school in the Imperial College and were not in the same class as him.

At first, the two of them were worried that he would not be used to it.

After class, they went to Su Ergou's class.

Good lord, Su Ergou did not seem like an outsider.

He was always at ease.

He sat in his seat and ate the snacks Su Xiaoxiao had brought him.

The soufflé was fragrant and soft. It was tender and soft. After taking a bite, it was so crispy that it fell to the ground.

His classmates were almost dying of hunger…

A classmate swallowed and mustered his courage to pat him on the shoulder.

“Where did you buy your snacks?”

“Oh, my sister made it. 100 copper coins for one and 200 copper coins for three. Do you want a few? You can reserve it today and receive it tomorrow. There's a limited number. First come, first served!”

Su Qi and his brother felt their lips twitch.

So he was not here for class. He was here to do business in the Directorate!

On the first day of school, Su Ergou successfully received an order of ten taels of silver for his family.

It was good to study.

Su Ergou liked to study!

Chapter 300

Wei Ting was punished to reflect behind closed doors for a month.

There were eunuchs staying in the residence to supervise.

At night, Wei Ting did not return to Pear Blossom Lane.

Although he did not return, he had to bring the things.

The moon was dark and windy.

Su Xiaoxiao had just coaxed the three little ones to sleep and planned to rest.

Suddenly, a shadow flashed over from the sky and arrived in front of Su Xiaoxiao's window like a ghost. He knocked on the window lattice.

Su Xiaoxiao opened the window strangely. The figure had long disappeared, and there was a letter on the windowsill.

She opened it and took a look.

It was a thick banknote of 3,000 taels of silver and a note that cherished words like gold: Home use. Going out for a month. Don't miss me.

Su Xiaoxiao smiled.

She looked at the silent and windless courtyard and hesitated for a moment before saying, “Is it Little Black?”

“It's not.”

A man's voice replied.

“Oh.” Su Xiaoxiao raised her eyebrows. “Yu Niang wrote a letter to someone called Little Black. Since you're not, forget it.”

The man in black flashed to the window.

At the Qin family.

Qin Yanran returned to the west courtyard of the Protectorate.

She had an extremely infuriating day.

First, she was mocked by the young lady from the commoners, then there were three junior uncles for no reason. The junior uncles were even that woman's sons…

The three little fellows played in the courtyard, making her unable to calm down to practice the piano. She played a few wrongly.

Master Zhang's dissatisfaction with her was almost written all over his face.

But could she be blamed?

Who wouldn't be disturbed by the children's noise?

But then again, Master Zhang was 30 years old this year. The man called Ling Yun looked to be in his early twenties at most. How could he be Master Zhang's master?

Zhang Qinshi was the most famous zither master in the capital. No one knew where his master came from. They only knew that back then, he had performed “Phoenix Seeks the Phoenix” on the pleasure boat and was famous in the capital.

From then on, many people came because of hos reputation. They almost broke through the threshold of Master Zhang.

Some asked him for music, and some wanted to learn from him.

Master Zhang did not take in disciples easily. Including herself, there were no more than five, and she was the only female disciple.

Who was his master?

“It's called Ling Yun, but I've never heard of this name…”

Qin Yanran couldn't figure it out.

Qin Yanran went to Qin Jiang's courtyard to rest in the morning. This was a habit she had always insisted on for so many years.

At the courtyard door, she bumped into the exasperated Qin Yun.

Qin Yun was clearly here for Qin Jiang's courtyard, but he was not here to pay his respects. It was more like he wanted to complain.

“Ah Yun,” Qin Yanran called out to him.

Qin Yun called her sister gloomily.

Qin Yanran asked, “Your expression is very ugly. Did something happen?”

Qin Yun complained, “Why are you still talking! It's all your fault for making me go to the Imperial College!”

Qin Yanran was slightly embarrassed. “I… I'm sorry. I was too busy to pick you up.”

Qin Yun was not here for this. He had long forgotten that Qin Yanran was coming to pick him up.

He was angry because his friends in the past suddenly stopped currying favor with him. Then, he saw that guy called Su Ergou was actually in his class next door!

Damn it!

Qin Yanran advised earnestly, “Father might be very busy recently. Don't disturb him with such trivial matters.”

Qin Yun snorted. “How is my matter a small matter? Could it be that only your matter is a big deal?” Qin Yanran frowned and said, “I didn't say that.”

“But that's what you mean!”

“Ah Yun!”

Qin Yun ignored her and rushed in, but he was stopped by Xu Qing. “Master is resting. Young Master and Miss can come back tomorrow.” Qin Yun said sternly, “I want to see Father. Get out of the way!”

Xu Qing did not move.

Qin Yun mocked, “You're just a guard dog! How dare you disobey my orders!

Get lost! I want to see Father!”

A cold glint flashed across Xu Qing's eyes.

“Ah Yun!” Qin Yanran tugged at Qin Yun. “Stop fooling around!”

Qin Yun broke free from her hand. The huge force made Qin Yanran stagger back.

Xu Qing grabbed her arm to prevent her from falling to the ground in a sorry state.

When she stabilized herself, Xu Qing retracted his hand expressionlessly.

Qin Yanran touched her arm and looked at Qin Yun with a complicated expression. She said sternly, “Go back!”

Qin Yun looked at his angry sister and then at the cold Xu Qing. He gritted his teeth and turned to leave!

Qin Yanran sighed with a headache and turned to look at Xu Qing. She asked worriedly, “How are my father's injuries?”

Xu Qing glanced at Qin Yanran.

His gaze was different from ordinary guards, inadvertently emitting endless killing intent.

Qin Yanran felt her heart tremble, but she stubbornly did not avoid his murderous gaze.

Xu Qing looked away and said calmly, “The imperial physician has taken a look and asked Old Master to recuperate.”

In the end, he did not mention that he had vomited blood from being angered by Wei Ting in the imperial study.

“Has His Majesty dealt with Lord Wei?”

“He dealt with him; he had to reflect on his mistakes for a month.”

Qin Yanran was in disbelief.

Did Wei Ting only have to reflect on himself after injuring her father to this extent?

Xu Qing said, “Miss, you know that you'll enter the palace tomorrow to take part in the selection to study with the princess, right?”

Qin Yanran nodded. “People from the palace came.”

Xu Qing said calmly, “Miss, you should understand that this is your only chance to marry the Third Prince, right?”

Qin Yanran was stunned. 'You mean… it's fake to read to the princess and it's true to choose a consort for the Third Prince?”

Xu Qing did not answer her question directly. Instead, he said, “I heard that the young lady from the commoners also obtained a spot to enter the palace.”

Qin Yanran said in shock, “Didn't… didn't she already get married in the countryside?”

Xu Qing said, “It's not like there's no such precedent in our dynasty. I heard that not long after Miss was born, an enlightened expert did a reading for the Protectorate. The Eldest Miss of the Protectorate is born with the fate of a phoenix and would be a mother to the world. Is the Eldest Miss mentioned by that expert Miss or the real daughter of the eldest branch?”

Qin Yanran's pupils dilated!

It was dawn.

Su Xiaoxiao got up to make snacks.

Su Cheng did not return yesterday. He was too tired from practicing riding and archery and fell asleep in the courtyard of the horse farm.

Qin Canglan sent a guard to give Su Xiaoxiao a message, telling her not to worry.

Wei Ting was not around, Father Su was not around, and Su Ergou wanted to go to school. She had to let him sleep well.

This time, there was really no one to help.

However, a hundred snacks were not much. They were all out of the pot in about two hours.

She called Su Ergou and the three little ones.

Su Ergou rubbed his eyes and looked at the bright sky outside the window. Smelling the fragrance from the kitchen, he muttered, “Sister, are you done with the snacks? Why didn't you call me?”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “How many snacks are there?”

Su Ergou frowned and said, “No! You have to call me next time. Otherwise, I won't take on any business!”

How could he let his sister be busy alone? Was he still the man of the family?

Su Xiaoxiao looked at her fourteen-year-old brother and smiled. “Alright, I'll call you next time.”

Su Ergou was worried and filled the water tank. After chopping the firewood and feeding the foal, he went to the table for breakfast..

Chapter 301

Today, it was Su Qi and Su Yu who came to pick Su Ergou up.

The two of them looked at the table that was filled with snacks and their lips could not help but twitch. This kid was really doing business…

Su Ergou went to move the snacks.

The two of them hurriedly said, “I'll do it, I'll do it!”

If Big Brother knew that they let this kid work, he would definitely slap them.

After coming to the capital, the snacks were sold at a higher price, so the packaging was naturally better. Orders for quantities of less than five were wrapped in Ruo leaves, and orders for quantities of more than ten were placed in wooden boxes.

The small wooden box was custom-made by someone hired by Zhong Shan. It was engraved with the emblem of Su Ji. It looked high-end and generous, and it was not expensive to make.

Su Ergou seriously counted the snacks that Su Qi and Su Yu had moved into the carriage.

Su Qi and Su Yu were a little confused.

This situation… was different from what they had imagined.

Shouldn't he be a timid, trembling, and country boy who needed the protection of his two heroic cousins at all times?

Why did he look like a little boss commanding the two of them to work?

A hundred boxes of snacks were moved. Su Xiaoxiao took out two more boxes.

“Eh? There's more?” Su Qi said.

“For you.” Su Xiaoxiao handed the snacks to the two of them.

Su Qi took it and smiled. “Um… actually, there's no need to go through so much trouble. We eat it often. Don't make it next time.”

Their grandfather was a foodie. The chef in the residence had been specially invited from Jiangnan. The snacks he made were better than those sold outside.

It was not that they despised Su Xiaoxiao's culinary skills, but there was really no need to trouble her so much.

There was no shortage of these two mouthfuls of food.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Oh, okay.”

She poked her hand into the compartment.

Su Ergou stuck his head over.

She tidied Su Ergou's clothes.

The students of the Imperial College were wearing the same school uniform. It was white with a grayish-blue belt and sleeves. They looked refined and smelled like books.

Su Ergou was not bad-looking, but he usually did dabble in literary arts and was tanned. Now, that he had changed into a scholar's clothes, he was quite eye-catching.

Su Xiaoxiao was very satisfied. She thought of something and reminded him, “There's still half of the water I brought for you yesterday. You have to finish it today.”

Su Ergou agreed obediently. “Got it, Sister.”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “What do you want to eat tonight?”

Su Ergou thought for a moment. “Braised pork.” Su Xiaoxiao nodded. “Okay, I'll make it for you.” Su Qi and Su Yu got into the carriage.

“Sister, we're leaving!” Su Ergou waved goodbye.

The three little ones ran out and waved. “Goodbye, Uncle!”

Su Ergou waved seriously. “Goodbye, Dahu. Goodbye, Erhu. Goodbye, Xiaohu!”

Su Qi and Su Yu: “Is it so ritualistic?”

After Su Ergou left, it was the three little ones' turn.

Su Xiaoxiao tidied up their book bags and filled them with snacks, water bags, and small towels.

The three little ones carried their small book bags and left valiantly!

Su Xiaoxiao had to enter the palace today and did not know how many hours it would take. She told Master Zhang that Zhong Shan would pick up the children and bring them back in the afternoon.

“You mean you have something on in the afternoon?” Master Zhang asked.

“Yes, I'm going out for a while.” Su Xiaoxiao didn't say that she had to enter the palace.

Zhang Qinshi said, “Why don't you let them stay here?”

Su Xiaoxiao blinked. “Huh?”

Master Zhang smiled. “You'll pick them up when you come back tonight?”

Su Xiaoxiao pondered and said, “Is this… okay? Won't it be too much of a disturbance?”

Zhang Qinshi hurriedly expressed, “No, no, no!”

He wanted her sons to disturb someone. Her sons had disturbed that person all morning and successfully made someone feel a little hungry.

If they disturbed him for an entire day…

The doctor had once diagnosed that if Ling Yun could not return to eating normally, he would die of exhaustion one day.

However, Ling Yun took the initiative to complain about hunger yesterday, allowing Master Zhang to see a trace of hope.

So be it. It was better than Ling Yun dying.

Ling Yun was exhausted by the three little ones yesterday and slept until dawn.

He was puzzled himself.

After all, he had not slept for a long time.

“Teacher!”

Xiaohu stuck his head in.

Ling Yun's temples throbbed!

The fear of being dominated by Xiaohu's little demonic voice surged into his heart.

Xiaohu said in a childish voice, “Teacher, let me tell you a piece of good news. We'll accompany you for the entire day today!”

Duang!

Ling Yun fell!

Zhong Shan came to Pear Blossom Lane.

Su Xiaoxiao told him that the three little ones were staying at the teacher's house today.

Zhong Shan was old. To be honest, she had no choice but to let him look after the three little fellows.

Since Master Zhang and Ling Yun were willing to contribute, it couldn't be better.

Zhong Shan gestured. “Tell me if you have any instructions.”

Su Xiaoxiao returned to the house and brought him a box of ointment that she had just boiled yesterday. She said, “To recover from your waist injury, apply it every morning and night until it heats up.”

Zhong Shan was stunned.

Zhong Shan had never taken the initiative to tell Su Xiaoxiao anything. Be it his deafness or injury, Su Xiaoxiao had observed it herself. Zhong Shan took the medicine and his heart swelled. He said, “I'm just a servant.”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “There are no servants here.”

Zhong Shan's eyes were wet.

Su Xiaoxiao continued, “Grandmaster Hui Jue also wants me to take care of you.”

Apart from asking Zhong Shan to serve them well, she also wanted them to help take care of Zhong Shan.

Mistress Hui Jue was a person who valued relationships and righteousness. Regardless of whether Zhong Shan was a servant or not, in her eyes, they were all people she had to take care of.

Zhong Shan turned around.

When he was sure Su Xiaoxiao couldn't see him, hot tears fell.

Fifteen minutes later, Su Mots carriage arrived.

He was here to bring Su Xiaoxiao into the palace.

Su Xiaoxiao's clothes were no different from usual. She was wearing a lake-blue high-waisted dress with a pipa shirt of the same color. Her hair was tied into a simple bun and she had tied a white pearl headband that Su Cheng had given her.

However, her cute round face and exquisite facial features were pleasing to the eye.

Her chubby figure made her look cute.

It was just… wasn't this outfit a little too plain.

“Are you… sure you want to enter the palace dressed like this?” Su MO asked.

Su Xiaoxiao looked down at her outfit. “Isn't this outfit good?”

“Pretty good,” Su MO said. “Get in.”

Other daughters wished they could put the most expensive jewelry and materials on themselves, but this girl was so simple.

From Su Mo's standpoint, he hoped that Su Xiaoxiao would be chosen.

The Qin and Su families were royalists. Marrying the Third Prince, Xiao Zhonghua, was more in line with the Qin and Su families than marrying Wei Ting.

However, looking at this girl's posture, she clearly hoped that she would fail.

“What's so good about Wei Ting?” Su MO did not understand.

“Sigh.” Su Xiaoxiao sighed sadly. “We can't say what's good about some people, but no one can replace them… Okay, he's good-looking.”

Chapter 302

Qin Yanran also arrived at the palace entrance under Xu Qings escort.

Xu Qing lifted the curtain and handed her a footstool.

She walked down the stairs slowly.

She was wearing a light purple dress with wide sleeves. The thin veil around her waist was gently tied with a pearl ornament.

Her shoes were inlaid with huge east pearls. They were spotless and extraordinary.

However, the most eye-catching thing was her shark pearl hair accessory.

She was already extraordinary-looking. It was not an exaggeration to say that she was a fairy.

Many beautiful young ladies had already arrived at the palace entrance, but her appearance still suppressed the crowd and attracted everyone's attention.

During this period of time, the news about the real and fake Duke Protector pushed Qin Yanran, the first daughter of the family, into the limelight.

It would be a lie to say that no one was waiting to see her make a fool of herself. However, before one could laugh, news spread that Qin Jiang was going to fight for military power with Qin Canglan's son.

On the surface, it was a battle for military power, but it was actually Emperor Jing Xuan's attitude.

Emperor Jing Xuan did not approve of the Protector Duke who had returned from the commoners.

In this way, Qin Jiang still had a chance to turn things around.

Su Xiaoxiao's carriage arrived at the palace at about the same time.

Her appearance also attracted everyone's attention.

The daughters of the capital were thin and beautiful. They had never seen anyone so fat.

Other than that, it was Su Mo.

Su MO was the head of the four young masters in the capital. Countless girls secretly liked him.

“Who's that?”

A young lady asked.

Her companion whispered, “Coming over with Young Master Su… I'm afraid it's that young lady from the commoners?”

“The biological granddaughter of the Old Duke?”

“I think so.”

“Why is she here? Is a girl who grew up in the countryside qualified to be a princess's study companion?”

Everyone whispered.

Qin Yanran didn't seem to hear everyone's criticism of Su Xiaoxiao. She walked past the two of them.

Su MO ignored Qin Yanran and did not even look at her.

Qin Yanran clenched her handkerchief.

Su MO said to Su Xiaoxiao, “Go in first. I'll wait for you outside.” “There's no need to wait. Who knows how long it will take?”

“It's fine. I have nothing on anyway.”

Qin Yanran recalled that three years ago, she had also entered the palace to attend Princess Hui An's flower appreciation banquet.

At that time, she was staying in the Marquis of Zhenbei's Estate. The Old Marquis asked Su MO to send her into the palace.

He had no intention of disobeying the Old Marquis and sent her to the palace door.

However, he did not ride in the same carriage as her. Instead, he rode beside her.

In the end, he left two guards waiting there and left without looking back.

In Qin Yanran's impression, Su MO had endless work.

But just now, he actually said… that he was free?

“Then… okay,” Su Xiaoxiao agreed.

Qin Yanran had always felt that Su MO treated her extremely well and was an impeccable and perfect cousin.

Compared to Su Mo's attitude towards Su Xiaoxiao, she realized that Su MO had only followed his elders' instructions in the past and fulfilled his responsibilities as a cousin.

There was no need for anyone to instruct to be really good to someone.

Su MO went to the carriage and waited patiently.

The daughters entered the palace under the lead of the eunuchs and palace maids.

There was still a considerable distance from where they were to the Hall of Supreme Harmony. The Internal Affairs Department had arranged sedan chairs.

When the daughters sat in the sedan chair, they would usually reward the eunuchs carrying the sedan chair. Therefore, this was considered a lucrative job.

Everyone fought to carry the sedan chairs. It was Su Xiaoxiao's turn, but no eunuch went forward.

There was no other reason.

Who could carry such a fat girl?

She also looked like she had no money. If one's waist was broken, he would not be able to get a single copper coin!

Su Xiaoxiao was isolated on the spot. The daughters covered their faces and snickered.

Su Xiaoxiao didn't care.

If no one carried the sedan chair, she would leave herself.

She did not feel embarrassed or tired. At the same time, she could enjoy the scenery along the way.

She followed behind the team.

Not far away, a sedan chair made of golden cedar landed in front of a pavilion.

Princess Jing Ning walked down from the sedan chair and casually glanced at the team. She asked, “What's going on over there?”

The female official at the side said, “Your Highness, those daughters are here to participate in the selection of study companions for the princesses.”

Jing Ning had heard about Emperor Jing Xuan opening a palace school. After all, she was one of the princesses of the right age who needed to enter school. Princess Jing Ning said, “I mean that girl. Why didn't she take a sedan chair?”

She was dressed simply and did not look like a rich daughter, but she was even less like a palace maid.

Therefore, Jingning judged that she should be one of the so-called study companions.

Jingning was a princess, and there were some things she didn't understand, but the palace maids and eunuchs knew everything.

After all, only servants understood the twists and turns of servants.

The female official said truthfully, “They most likely saw that the girl was too fat and dressed poorly, so they didn't want to take on a thankless job.” Princess Jing Ning frowned.

Princess Jingning had been mocked since she was young for her overly mediocre appearance. Seeing the little fat girl suffer like this, she could not help but feel a trace of compassion.

“Call her over…

As she spoke, she paused. “Forget it, go over!”

The young ladies sat in a sedan chair all the way to the side hall.

After getting off the palanquin, as expected, every eunuch carrying the palanquin received a generous reward.

“Eh? Have you seen that fat girl? I just saw her following behind. In the blink of an eye, she's gone!”

“She didn't lose her way, did she?”

“How can she lose her way? How stupid is she!”

“The palace is so big. If she lost her way, it's hard to get back! If we offend a noble…

That was death.

The young ladies discussed again.

Qin Yanran thought that she would become the center of attention, but she didn't expect everyone to be talking about Su Xiaoxiao.

However, it was not a good thing.

“As expected of those from the countryside. If I were her, I wouldn't leave without someone carrying my sedan chair. I'll get someone to call their chief over! Let's see who dares not to lift it!”

“Who should she call? Can't you see that she doesn't even have a maidservant beside her?”

“Miss Qin, no matter what, she's still a member of your Qin family. Shouldn't you teach her how to become a daughter of a famous family?”

Qin Yanran said softly, “Miss Wang is right. When we return to the residence,

I'll teach her the rules.”

A young lady suddenly said, “Stop talking! Princess Jingning is here!”

Everyone turned around and saw a few powerful inner court experts carrying a golden-threaded nanmu sedan chair steadily over.

The sedan chair's canopy was accompanied by a bright yellow color. This was a color that only the orthodox members of the harem were qualified to use.

Other than the Empress Dowager and the Empress, only the Empress's Princess Jingning could use it. Even the princes were not allowed to overstep their boundaries.

Everyone hurriedly fell silent and bent down to bow respectfully.

The sedan landed.

The curtain was gently lifted by the female official.

A little fat girl walked out boldly.

All the daughters who bowed to her were speechless..

Chapter 303

“Why did she come in Princess Jingning's sedan chair?”

“That's right! What right does a country bumpkin have?”

“Did Princess Jingning lend her the sedan chair because she couldn't bear to see her alone?”

“I think she most likely complained to Princess Jingning herself!”

“She's really lucky to meet Princess Jingning…”

The discussion made Su Xiaoxiao the focus of everyone again.

However, to everyone's surprise, Su Xiaoxiao, who was being pointed at, did not show any nervousness.

It had to be known that many daughters of families who were entering the palace for the first time could not be as calm as her.

“Is she stupid?”

A young lady asked softly.

The others burst out laughing.

A young lady who was quite familiar with Qin Yanran tugged at her sleeve.

“Miss Qin.”

“Why did she come in Princess Jingning's sedan chair?”

“That's right! What right does a country bumpkin have?”

“Did Princess Jingning lend her the sedan chair because she couldn't bear to see her alone?”

“I think she most likely complained to Princess Jingning herself!”

“She's really lucky to meet Princess Jingning…'

The discussion made Su Xiaoxiao the focus of everyone again.

However, to everyone's surprise, Su Xiaoxiao, who was being pointed at, did not show any nervousness.

It had to be known that many daughters of families who were entering the palace for the first time could not be as calm as her.

“Is she stupid?”

A young lady asked softly.

The others burst out laughing.

A young lady who was quite familiar with Qin Yanran tugged at her sleeve.

“Miss Qin.”

Qin Yanran raised her hand and gently touched the shark pearl on her head.

The young lady asked, “She's from your Qin family. Is she usually so silly?”

Qin Yanran's expression froze as she said calmly, “Miss Hong, please be careful with your words. ”

Miss Hong curled her lips and went to talk to others.

Qin Yanran had extraordinary looks and talent. She should have been the focus of today, but Su Xiaoxiao's appearance made everyone's eyes fall on her.

Not long after, a palace nanny who looked experienced brought them to an open-air garden.

The surroundings were filled with green plants and flowers. In the center was an emerald green lawn.

There was already a table and futon on the lawn.

The nanny dragged out her tone and said, “Please take a seat.”

Everyone found suitable seats and sat down.

When it came to Su Xiaoxiao, there was only a single table in the last row.

Su Xiaoxiao walked over and sat down.

The little fat girl was alone again.

Qin Yanran sat in the first row.

Generally speaking, it took some courage to sit in this position.

Qin Yanran's strength was outstanding and she was unafraid of any test, so she naturally dared to sit in the first row.

On both sides of her were the daughters of the Leng family and the Jing family.

Su Xiaoxiao looked up. The back of the heads was shining under the sunlight, making her dizzy.

The first assessment was the written test.

Choosing a companion for the princess was not as strict as the imperial examination. The main test was the basic skills of the daughters.

The test paper was divided into two parts: silent book and poetry.

The content of the silent book came from the four books and five scriptures. Every test paper was different, so there was no plagiarism.

The poem was written with spring as the theme. There was no restriction on the use of words, but it had to be original.

Su Xiaoxiao had learned a lot of words from Wei Ting in the countryside. On the way to the capital, she continued to learn from Physician Fu. Now, it was no longer a problem for her to read.

After reading the densely packed test papers, she only sighed. It was not easy for the daughters of ancient times.

After an hour, the eunuchs came over to collect the papers.

“How did you do?” a young lady asked.

“There are two questions that I didn't answer.”

“Only two questions? I don't know anything else… Miss Wang, I think you filled them all.”

The daughter of the Wang family smiled. “I wrote it randomly.”

Su Xiaoxiao crossed her arms. She was so familiar with the post-test scene.

The second assessment was painting a peony that the eunuchs had moved over.

Su Xiaoxiao's performance was average. When others looked at paintings, she looked at them too. When others moved their brushes, she also moved hers.

The invigilator in the corner had noticed her since the last round. However, he was in front at that time and was only switched to the back in the second round.

He saw Su Xiaoxiao writing quickly and majestically. He thought to himself that this girl looked low-key and was most likely an expert.

Then, he couldn't help but crane his neck to look at Su Xiaoxiao's painting.

Heavens!

He staggered and almost fell!

Next, they tested music and chess.

Music was an instrument chosen by the daughters who were good at it. They played it live and the musicians of the palace recorded their results.

The results were not announced on the spot.

With Master Zhang's guidance, Qin Yanran's zither skills improved by leaps and bounds. Her song “Otherworldly Flying Immortal” stunned everyone.

The pipa of the daughter of the Leng family and the Luanzheng of the daughter of the Jing family also attracted the attention of the musicians.

It was Su Xiaoxiao's turn.

Su Xiaoxiao asked, “Can I play anything?”

The palace nanny nodded. “Yes.”

Su Xiaoxiao thought for a moment and said seriously, “Then, should I play cotton for everyone?”

Everyone was speechless.

After a day of assessment, the person who was the most outstanding in music was Qin Yanran. No one could see the results of the written test and painting, so they could not know. However, from their past reputation, Qin Yanran was in the top three even if she was not first.

Among the top three places, the daughter of the Leng family should have a spot.

Chess was decided by drawing lots.

Qin Yanran drew the daughter of the Leng family.

A few chess masters who had come to be the referees surrounded the two of them.

Obviously, their game was the most anticipated.

Su Xiaoxiao picked Miss Hong.

Miss Hong did not take a girl who grew up in the countryside seriously.

She said arrogantly, 'You can go first. I'll let you go first!”

“Oh.” Su Xiaoxiao casually picked up a black piece and placed it in the middle of the chessboard.

Miss Hong sneered. “Do you know how to play chess? Don't tell me you're in the countryside and have never seen what Go looks like?”

The first step was usually to take the star position and occupy one of the four more valuable corners, followed by the side.

Otherwise, why would there be a golden horn and silver lining?

The place where this girl placed her piece was terrible.

To be honest, her chess skills were not too superb. Previously, she was worried that she would draw a powerful opponent, but she did not expect to encounter this girl.

Ha.

She might as well draw a powerful one.

It was unfair to win against such a person.

Miss Hong despised her.

She played a piece. Hmph, she would finish the country bumpkin within ten moves!

Ten moves later.

Su Xiaoxiao rested her chin on one hand.

Miss Hong sneered and said, “Why aren't you playing anymore? If you don't know how to, I'll teach you and let you last a few more moves in my hands.”

Su Xiaoxiao sighed. “I'm hungry.”

They had not eaten for the entire day.

Did these young ladies not need to eat?

She was so hungry that she was panicking.

Su Xiaoxiao didn't care anymore. She took out a snack from her pouch and ate it leisurely.

Miss Hong said coldly, “Hey! Are you here to play chess or eat? Can you be more serious? If you continue like this, you might as well forfeit!” Su Xiaoxiao tapped the chessboard with her other hand.

Miss Hong looked down and was shocked.

She was about to win just now. Why did this girl break out all of a sudden?

“How… how did you… get down here?”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Can't I go down here? Then I'll go somewhere else.”

“You can't back out!” said the eunuch beside them. “Oh.” Su Xiaoxiao put the chess piece back.

Miss Hong glanced at Su Xiaoxiao.

She didn't even know the rules of chess. She had most likely hit the jackpot. The two of them continued to play.

Every time Miss Hong saw that she was about to win, Su Xiaoxiao could break

UUL.

More and more chess games were decided. In the end, only her table, the daughter of the Leng family, and Qin Yanran's table were left.

It was normal for the two of them to not be able to determine the outcome. After all, the two of them were experts at chess.

But she was facing a girl who had grown up in the countryside!

“Hey, why isn't Miss Hong done yet?”

“Could it be that she can't even win against a little village girl? I didn't believe it when I heard that her chess skills were poor…”

“Shh, lower your voice. She's the legitimate daughter of the Qin family. It's not strange that Miss Hong can't win…”

Everyone's soft mockery fell into Miss Hong's ears. She was furious and pointed at Su Xiaoxiao's nose. “You broke the rules!”

Su Xiaoxiao looked confused. “What rule did I break?”

Miss Hong said, “Eat!”

Su Xiaoxiao looked at the invigilating eunuch. “Is there a rule that you can't

The eunuch said, “Uh… no.”

It was mainly because they did not expect anyone to be able to eat…

On the other side, Qin Yanran and the daughter of the Leng family decided the victor.

Qin Yanran narrowly won.

The two of them stood up and bowed to each other.

Only Miss Hong and Su Xiaoxiao were left.

Miss Hong broke out in cold sweat.

This was because she belatedly realized that although she seemed to have won all the way, she had actually been captured to death.

How could this be?

Didn't this girl not know how to play chess?

Why did she still..

Su Xiaoxiao raised the black chess piece and found a place on the chessboard seriously.

Miss Hong stared at her flaw and broke out in cold sweat.

Don't go down there, don't go down there…

Su Xiaoxiao's piece paused above. Miss Hong almost fainted.

“Here!”

Su Xiaoxiao's piece landed at the side.

Miss Hong instantly recovered and locked her situation!

“White, win.”

Miss Hong let out a long sigh.

At this point, the last round of the assessment was over.

The chess masters left one after another.

They had mainly gone to watch Qin Yanran play with the daughter of the Leng family just now and paid very little attention to other chess games, especially Su Xiaoxiao and Miss Hong.

When they passed by the two of them, a chess master casually glanced at them.

When he was about to take a second look, the eunuch had already put away the chessboard.

“What's wrong?” his companion asked.

Master said, “Ah, just now… I seem to have seen an impressive chess game.”

His companion asked the eunuch, “Who was playing chess here just now?”

The eunuch replied, “Miss Hong and Miss Su?” His companion asked, “Which Miss Su?”

The eunuch said, “That daughter of the Duke who grew up among the commoners who has yet to pay respects to her ancestors. She used her name from the countryside.”

His companion looked at the chess master and smiled. “Did you see wrongly? I've never heard of Miss Hong's chess skills.”

There was even less of a need to mention that daughter from the countryside.

The chess master nodded. “Perhaps.”

Even he could not guarantee that he could play such a game..

Chapter 304

When they came out of the palace, it was already dusk.

The evening breeze carried a hint of coldness.

Su MO stood quietly beside the carriage at the entrance of the palace in a silver cloak.

The daughters walked out one after another and could not help but size him up.

The eldest son of the Su family was well-versed in both civil and military matters. He was elegant like jade and came from a noble background. He was deeply valued by the emperor. Which girl in the world did not want to marry such a husband?

The daughters blushed.

Su Xiaoxiao slowly walked behind everyone.

Suddenly, a young lady fell a few steps behind and took the initiative to strike up a conversation with her. “Miss Qin, how did you do today?”

“My surname is Su,” Su Xiaoxiao said.

“Ah.” The young lady was stunned.

Su Xiaoxiao had no intention of building a relationship with others and walked over calmly.

Not long after, another daughter came over. “Miss Su, this is your first time in the palace, right? You played well today. I heard that you almost won.”

“You seem to have been watching Qin Yanran's chess game the entire time, right?”

Su Xiaoxiao glanced at her and noticed her red cheeks and flickering eyes.

Su Xiaoxiao glanced at Su MO again and understood.

Could it be that they were trying to use her?

Seven or eight daughters came over and chatted enthusiastically with Su Xiaoxiao. Those who didn't know better would think that Su Xiaoxiao was some new favorite.

Su Xiaoxiao came to Su Mo.

The daughters greeted Su MO shyly. “Young Master Su.”

Su MO returned the greeting politely. He was not cold, but he was not too enthusiastic. He retained the self-restraint that a descendant of an aristocratic family should have.

“Get in,” Su MO said to Su Xiaoxiao.

He turned around, lifted the curtain, and reached out to help Su Xiaoxiao into the carriage.

Not far away, Qin Yanran saw that Su MO had no qualms about being close to Su Xiaoxiao. She could not help but clench the handkerchief in her hand.

When she was Su MO's cousin, Su MO never crossed the line.

Strictly speaking, this was not overstepping. The two families were relatives, to begin with. Su MO took care of Su Xiaoxiao as a sibling would and did not mix anything else.

However, the more this was the case, the more Qin Yanran felt a huge difference.

So Su MO could treat someone like this. He could ignore the rules, and his status, and be fearless of gossip. “Miss, get in the car.”

Xu Qing's voice came from behind.

Qin Yanran looked at the Su family's carriage and muttered, “Has Young Master Su been waiting outside the palace and never left?” “Yes,” Xu Qing said. Qin Yanran felt a little aggrieved. “Is she that good?” Xu Qing did not answer.

In the carriage, Su MO handed Su Xiaoxiao a water bag.

Su Xiaoxiao was indeed thirsty.

“Thanks.” She took it and gulped it down.

Su MO looked at her eating and drinking whenever she wanted and was never worried about destroying her image. He couldn't help but laugh. “Is there no water in the palace?”

Su Xiaoxiao sighed. “Yes, but is that for people to drink? It's for show, right?”

She was only brought a small cup at a time. The other daughters only took a small sip to moisten their throats before putting it back. She drank them all, but it was not enough to quench her thirst.

Su MO smiled. “Drink slowly. There's more.”

Su Xiaoxiao agreed. “Yes.”

Su MO asked, “What did you have to do in the selection?”

Su Xiaoxiao thought for a moment. “Qin, chess, calligraphy… chess.”

Su MO opened a jar of walnuts. “How did you do?”

Su Xiaoxiao grabbed a walnut. “Not bad.”

Su MO remarked, “You're not telling the truth.”

After Su MO sent Su Xiaoxiao back to Pear Blossom Lane, he went to deal with the official matters that had been delayed during the day.

Su Xiaoxiao didn't say anything, but she understood.

It was not that Su MO really had nothing to do. He was worried that something would happen to her the first time he entered the palace. This way, he could rush over immediately.

Su Xiaoxiao picked up the three little ones.

The three little ones had a very happy day. In the morning, they learned the zither, in other words, torturing their master and in the afternoon, they went to the orchard, in other words, torturing their master.

In order to express their liking for their master, they went to their house to bring the foal over after returning from the orchard. Together with the foal, they continued to torture their master.

“Goodbye, Master!”

“Goodbye, Master!”

“Goodbye, Master!”

The three little ones in the courtyard waved at Ling Yun. Ling Yun didn't even have the strength to slam the door.

He was hungry…

He only wanted to eat..

Su Ergou had also returned from the Imperial College. Su Cheng had been captured by Qin Canglan and the Old Marquis to be locked up and trained. He still did not return tonight.

Su Xiaoxiao seriously suspected that the two of them were fighting to be Su Cheng's father.

Su Xiaoxiao stewed taro braised pork, steamed shrimp balls, fried chives and eggs, and stir-fried two plates of vegetables.

The taro was smooth and tender. The three little ones liked it very much.

Xiaohu held the bowl and chopsticks and raised his head. He said childishly, “I still want to eat tomorrow!”

Su Xiaoxiao asked in amusement, “What do you want to eat?”

Xiaohu said seriously, “Potato! Meat!”

“What about Dahu and Erhu?” Su Xiaoxiao asked.

Dahu was basically not picky about food. Other than the bitter ones, he ate everything.

“Candied hawthorn,” Erhu said.

Xiaohu hurriedly said, “Xiaohu also wants candied hawthorn! Many, many, a hundred candied hawthorns!”

Dahu nodded. He wanted a hundred too.

Su Xiaoxiao said sternly, “I want to ask about proper meals… Don't go astray!”

After dinner, the three little ones went to the courtyard to play while Su Xiaoxiao went to the kitchen to wash the dishes. Su Ergou walked in, looking like he had something to say.

“Sister.”

He said gloomily.

“What's wrong?” Su Xiaoxiao looked up at him and asked, “Ah, did you receive a new order? How many? I'll do it tomorrow.” “No…” Su Ergou said, “Ah, there's an order. I'm…”

“What do you want to say?” Su Xiaoxiao asked softly.

Su Ergou whispered, “Just… at the Directorate today, someone called me Little High Duke.”

What was inevitable would eventually come.

From the moment she decided to send Su Ergou to school, his background was destined to be exposed.

Su Xiaoxiao asked, “Do you want to be a Little High Duke?”

Su Ergou asked, “Am I still your brother after I become one? Am I still Dad's son? If not, I won't want to be a Little High Duke.”

Su Xiaoxiao teased him, “Aren't you going to make endless snacks and money?” Su Ergou shook his head like a rattle drum. “If I'm with Dad and Sister, I can go hungry.”

Su Xiaoxiao smiled. “I said I wouldn't let you go hungry again.”

Su Ergou said gloomily, “Sister, I'll eat less in the future. Don't give me to others. ”

Did this little silly boy think that she was going to send him into someone else's house to be a son?

Su Xiaoxiao didn't know whether to laugh or cry. She finally understood why he had a dejected expression from the moment he entered.

“Ergou, it's time to tell you something.”

“What?”

“I didn't tell you about Dad's background before because I still had some considerations. However, I realized that I might have been wrong. This decision shouldn't be made by me alone. I shouldn't have treated you as a child. You have the right to choose your family.”

Su Ergou listened obediently and cried in fear. “Sister, I… I'm really not our child, right? I was picked up from the streets?”

Tears streamed down his face.

He did not want to be the young master of a rich family.. He only wanted be with his sister and his father…

Chapter 305

Su Xiaoxiao spent more than half an hour explaining Su Cheng's background and his relationship with the Qin and Su families to Su Ergou.

Su Ergou said in a daze, “So I'm Dad's child and you're my biological sister?”

Su Xiaoxiao couldn't help but laugh. “Yes.”

Su Ergou wiped his tears. “Oh, then it's fine.”

He went out to play happily.

He did not care if he had become the young master of the Protectorate.

As Su Xiaoxiao washed the dishes, she looked at Su Ergou and the three little ones playing with the waterhole in the courtyard.

“Well, Peppa and three Little Georges.”

Su Ergou stomped his foot, causing water to splash all over their faces.

The three little ones were stunned!

Su Ergou placed his hands on his hips and laughed. “Hahaha! Hahahahaha! How is it? I'm still the best!”

Su Xiaoxiao remarked, “Uh… I was wrong. They were clearly four Little

Georges.”

After cleaning up the kitchen, Su Xiaoxiao boiled hot water and washed the three little ones clean.

The three little ones cutely asked Su Xiaoxiao for three kisses before sleeping.

It was also very tiring to torment their master. Coupled with the water battle with Uncle Ergou, the three of them were extremely tired. As soon as they touched the pillow, they fell asleep.

Erhu was the most obedient in his sleep. Dahu spread his wings under the blanket, and Xiaohu's butt stuck up. His little face was on the pillow, and he was drooling.

Su Xiaoxiao arranged the three of them, turned off the lights, and closed her eyes to sleep.

Unexpectedly and yet reasonably, she entered the pharmacy.

In February, the pharmacy rewarded her with a mouthful of immortal aura. After three months, there was no reward. Su Xiaoxiao thought that the pharmacy would never reward her monthly again.

Who would have thought that it would come in on the second of April?

Perhaps to make it up to her, the reward this time was a little sumptuous.

She actually saw a bottle of black technology bone-strengthening pills on the table, as well as four big jars of goat milk powder that the three little ones and the pony had been drinking.

The multivitamins and collagen could last more than half a year. It was not strange that there were no new supplies this time.

“Eh? What is this? A book?”

Su Xiaoxiao picked up a box-like dictionary on the table, but it was not a book. It was a box.

Su Xiaoxiao opened it and took out a bottle of ointment.

It was the dodgy-looking product again. It was dark and sticky. It looked strange and disgusting.

Smelling the minty smell, Su Xiaoxiao dipped it in and smeared it on the back of her hand.

It was very cool.

“I don't know what it's for. Take it first.”

Su Xiaoxiao replenished some anti-inflammatory medicine and anesthetic and took a few boxes of blood pressure medicine, preparing to send them to Aunt Fu another day.

At the Wei family, Wei Ting was punished to reflect behind closed doors.

This time, there was a special guard.

The person guarding him was a eunuch with the surname Yu. He was in his forties this year and was considered experienced in the palace. Otherwise, he would not have been sent to supervise Wei Ting.

Wei Ting sat in front of the window in boredom.

Eunuch Yu was like a statue growing in the house.

Wei Ting flipped through the book in his hand and sighed. “Eunuch Yu, why are you doing this? You've been guarding me for a day and night. At least find someone to help you.”

Eunuch Yu said, “Someone will come tomorrow to help me. Lord Wei, you don't have to worry.”

Wei Ting replied, “Hey, Eunuch Yu, you're treating me like an outsider. Our relationship..

Eunuch Yu remarked, “I'm not familiar with Lord Wei.”

Wei Ting said, “Eunuch Yu, look, the weather is good today, but I can only stay in my room. If I get sick from being suffocated…”

Eunuch Yu said, “I will hire an imperial physician for Lord Wei.”

Eunuch Yu was stubborn.

Wei Ting clicked his tongue and casually flipped open the romance book in his hand. “Eunuch Yu, I remember that you once received my grandfather's favor, right?”

Eunuch Yu paused.

Wei Ting said, 'When Grandpa was alive, I heard him mention you.”

“Old General, he…” Eunuch Yu hesitated.

Wei Ting was not lying. Old General Wei had indeed done Eunuch Yu a favor. That was not long after Eunuch Yu entered the palace and had just become a eunuch. He had yet to completely recover.

When he was running an errand for a young mistress of the harem, he accidentally scattered the snacks that the other party's family had sent to the palace.

If the higher-ups found out, he would be beaten up. It was unknown if he could survive.

It was Lord Wu An, who was in his prime who told others that he had knocked down this little eunuch. It was unknown if he had broken anything.

Lord Wu An was kind-hearted. How did he end up in such a miserable state? It was really a pity.

“Lord Wei, even if it's for Old General Wei's sake, I won't let you out.”

Wei Ting said, “No, I didn't ask you to let me out. I just feel that the night is dark and windy. Let's spend time together…”

Eunuch Yu trembled. “Lord Wei, be careful with your words!”

Was there a need to use such nonsense?

How did he become your top scorer?

Why wasn't he beaten to death by the examiner?

Wei Ting smiled and said, “It means what it means. Eunuch Yu, don't be nervous.”

The four seasons begonia in the courtyard bloomed beautifully and was covered in the moonlight. It was really.. blooming.

Eunuch Yu cleared his throat and said seriously, “Lord Wei, settle down early.”

Wei Ting sighed. “I'm a general. There's another person in the house, so I can't sleep. I'm afraid that I'll be in a daze in the middle of the night and kill Eunuch Yu as an assassin. Then, I won't be able to see him again.”

Eunuch Yu was speechless.

Wei Ting suggested, “Why don't you guard the door, Eunuch Yu? Don't worry, the courtyard is guarded by my grandmother's men. Even if I want to slip away,

I won't be able to.”

Eunuch Yu did not believe him.

Wei Ting looked at the sky sadly. “Is there no trust between people anymore?” Eunuch Yu was unmoved.

Wei Ting grabbed a handful of peanuts, casually pinched off the peanut shell, and threw the peanuts into his mouth.

Perhaps because he was panting a little too hard, he choked on the peanut skin.

He coughed violently.

Seeing this, Eunuch Yu hesitated for a moment before walking forward. “Lord

Wei, are you alright?”

“I…” Wei Ting coughed so hard that he could not speak.

Eunuch Yu did not really want to suffocate him to death. He quickly poured him a glass of water. “Drink some water first.”

Wei Ting was vigilant. He said with difficulty in a hoarse voice, “Where did the water come from? Are you trying to drug me?”

Eunuch Yu was wronged. “Heaven and earth, why would I drug Lord Wei?”

Wei Ting almost coughed out his lungs, but he refused to drink the water Eunuch Yu poured.

“I'll drink it for you to see, okay!” Eunuch Yu raised his head and took a sip.

Just one sip.

He collapsed.

Wei Ting immediately stopped coughing and smiled. “I'm sorry, Eunuch Yu.

Rest here for the night.”

He moved him to the couch and pulled the blanket over him.

In the past, he did not know how to do this. He could sleep on the ground himself, so he thought that everyone was the same. He went to the Su family and gradually learned a lot.

He pulled open the door.

And Matriarch Wei was blocking the door with a dignified expression.

“I knew you would play tricks!”

Wei Ting did not panic.

He said calmly, “I'll bring the three children over for you to see..”

Chapter 306

Su Xiaoxiao came out of the pharmacy and tidied her first aid kit, planning to continue sleeping.

Suddenly, a cold aura quietly arrived.

She first touched the three children on the inside. At the same time, her other hand neatly pulled out the dagger under the mattress.

The moment the figure approached, she stabbed!

She was too fast. In an instant, the blade was already close to the other party's neck.

Swoosh!

The other party leaned to the side and grabbed her wrist firmly.

“You want to murder your husband?”

A familiar voice sounded. Su Xiaoxiao was slightly stunned. She blinked and smelled a familiar aura on him. “It's you? Why are you here in the middle of the night?”

Wei Ting let go of her wrist.

This girl was really fast. If it were any other assassin, they would have been skinned by her.

However, when he saw that she was holding the dagger he had given her, he looked a little satisfied.

The dagger his grandfather had given him was called the candle dragon. It was the most suitable for a sneak attack.

“I came to see… my sons,” he said without changing his expression.

After Su Xiaoxiao's eyes adapted to the darkness, she could see his appearance in the night.

“Aren't you grounded?” she asked. “Who said that?” Wei Ting asked.

“Blackie.”

“Who's Blackie?”

After Wei Ting asked, he realized who the reckless one was.

He muttered quietly, “Very good, Yuchi Xiu, you're finished.”

How dare he make Wei Ting lose face in front of his wife? Yuchi Xiu's head could only be tied to his belt.

“Were you going to sleep?” Wei Ting asked as he looked at the blanket she had spread.

It was earlier than usual.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Aren't you and Dad not around? Ergou, Dahu, Erhu, and Xiaohu are going to school again. They have to wake up early, so they naturally have to sleep early at night.” “Then, sleep first.” “I'm not sleepy anymore.”

Wei Ting paused.

Forget it, he would keep Yuchi Xiu's head for now.

The night scenery in the capital was bustling.

It was past midnight, but the streets were still busy and noisy.

This was a commotion that could not be had in the countryside and town.

Su Xiaoxiao didn't like crowds in the past, but now, she felt that such mortal life was exceptionally rare.

“Scholar Street seems livelier than usual today,” she said, looking around. Wei Ting looked at the endless crowd. “There's a small lantern festival ahead.”

Su Xiaoxiao asked, “Is it a special day? Why is there a lantern festival?” Wei Ting said, “We'll know when we go take a look.”

The capital had changed drastically. He had been away for a year, and some things were indeed not familiar.

The two of them went to the east end of Scholar Street.

It turned out that a poetry club had organized an event where one could obtain a lantern by writing poems, and guessing lantern riddles.

There were many people participating, and there were even more onlookers.

The scene was very crowded.

A man squeezed towards Su Xiaoxiao.

Wei Ting raised his arm and blocked the man.

This posture looked like he was holding her in his arms.

After blocking her, he changed positions with her and blocked the waves of people for her.

No matter how many people bumped into him, he was as stable as a mountain.

No one Imew that the youngest son of the Wei family actually hated being approached by strangers, let alone allowing them to bump into him.

“Are there any lanterns you like?”

He asked Su Xiaoxiao.

Su Xiaoxiao was used to Wei Ting interacting with her. His tone was suddenly gentle… She scratched her head. “What?”

“Huh?” Wei Ting was stunned.

'What for?'

Didn't he just ask her if she wanted a lantern?

What kind of expression was that?

Su Xiaoxiao looked at him warily. “Do you want the family expenses back?”

Wei Ting wondered, “What does this have to do with family expenses?”

He tried his best to be human. Why didn't anyone believe him?

Wei Ting was about to defend himself when his ears twitched and he caught an extremely subtle movement.

He quietly moved behind Su Xiaoxiao and blocked her with his tall body. He whispered, “Don't look back. Go slowly east.”

Su Xiaoxiao was not an ignorant little girl. When she heard his words, she instantly understood that they were being targeted.

“Are there many people?” she asked.

Wei Ting glanced around. “Five.” Su Xiaoxiao asked, “What o'clock?” wei Ting: “Huh?”

Su Xiaoxiao corrected herself. “Oh, which direction?” Wei Ting said, “Two on the right and three on the left.”

“Then why did you…”

Su Xiaoxiao hesitated.

Wasn't he afraid that others would stab him into a sieve when he exposed his entire back?

The lights would be noisy.

Wei Ting's extraordinary hearing carefully distinguished the unusual movements.

Two people squeezed over and quietly pulled out their daggers.

It was too easy to hurt the innocent if they attacked here.

Wei Ting was not sure if the other party was coming for him or her.

He grabbed Su Xiaoxiao's wrist and squeezed to the front. The scholars who were guessing lantern riddles were shocked.

“Line up!”

The clerk shouted.

Wei Ting ignored him and grabbed Su Xiaoxiao into the poetry club.

The clerk said, “Hey! What's wrong with you?”

As soon as he finished speaking, five more figures entered the Poetry Society with killing intent.

“Oh no…” The waiter realized that something was wrong and hurriedly chased after them.

Wei Ting and Su Xiaoxiao had already passed through the poetry club and came to a quiet street from the back door.

“You stay here.”

Wei Ting pushed Su Xiaoxiao into a small courtyard and walked out to fight with the five people chasing after him.

The five of them were all dressed like ordinary commoners, but they attacked ruthlessly without any hesitation. They were clearly well-trained killers.

A killer of this level was not cheap.

Wei Ting really wanted to know which big idiot would pay a high price for his life in the martial world.

Could his life be bought?

The mastermind was simply overestimating himself!

Wei Ting did not bring any weapons. He snatched one of their swords and kicked the wielder away.

The other person attacked from behind. Wei Ting did not turn around at all. With a twist of his wrist, he changed the direction of his sword and suddenly stabbed back.

That person was caught off guard and was stabbed through.

Wei Ting pulled out his sword. With a flash, he cut off the wrists of the other
two.

In the blink of an eye, there was only one person left.

Wei Ting pointed his sword at him. “I hate dawdling the most. Tell me, who asked you to come?”

The man retreated fearfully.

As he looked straight at Wei Ting, his eyes were filled with fear.

This fear was a little too much.

Wei Ting smiled evilly and stabbed back.

He stabbed the first killer whom he kicked away but came back to ambush him.

However, at this moment, the sixth assassin appeared.

He did not run toward Wei Ting. Instead, he flew towards Su Xiaoxiao in the courtyard.

This happened too suddenly.

Wei Ting only had a long sword in his hand. If he killed the person who attacked Su Xiaoxiao, he would not be able to protect himself.

Without any hesitation.

He shot out his sword and pierced through the sixth person's heart!

At the same time, the assassin opposite Wei Ting raised his knife and slashed at Wei Ting's arm.

Pfft—

The sharp blade entered his body.

The sound of flesh and bone cracking came from the darkness.

Wei Ting frowned.

The next second, the assassin in front of him fell to the ground in a daze.

Su Xiaoxiao's dagger was stuck in his chest..

Chapter 307

This knife pierced into the other party's heart and killed him instantly. Even a general like Wei Ting, who had fought on the battlefield, could not help but sigh. It was really fast, ruthless, and accurate.

Wei Ting pulled out the dagger and took out a handkerchief to wipe it clean. He turned the blade and aimed the tip at himself before handing the handle to Su Xiaoxiao.

Su Xiaoxiao came out.

She took it and sheathed it.

Wei Ting looked at her deeply. “Your aim is not bad.”

Su Xiaoxiao put away the dagger and clapped her hands. “It takes one to know one.”

Wei Ting had fought in a war and the discomfort of killing for the first time had long passed.

The skills and calmness she displayed were not something a village girl could have.

She had too many secrets. Every day Wei Ting spent with her, he would be more curious.

Su Xiaoxiao looked at the people on the ground and asked, “Did they come for me?”

Wei Ting said, “It's hard to say.”

The five of them surrounded Wei Ting, and the sixth person rushed toward Su Xiaoxiao.

It was difficult to determine if they wanted to kill Su Xiaoxiao, so they had to deal with Wei Ting first; or in order to restrain Wei Ting, they had no choice but to injure Su Xiaoxiao as a hostage.

“Or it could be directed at me.”

Wei Ting said.

“Sir! Over there!”

At this moment, the young man from the poetry club led a few officials over.

This was a young man with a sense of justice. When he discovered that someone had attacked with a knife, he immediately reported it to the officials.

There were officials patrolling nearby and they quickly caught up.

“The five of them chased after him with knives…”

The young man was halfway through his sentence when he saw the assassin on the ground. He choked.

Wei Ting had been punished by Emperor Jing Xuan to reflect on his mistakes behind closed doors, so he naturally could not be caught red-handed. A second before the group rushed over, he wrapped his arm around Su Xiaoxiao's chubby waist and used his qinggong to bring her away.

“Is it these few people?” the leader asked.

The young man said, “Uh… yes, I think so. ”

The young man had only met them once and did not see their appearance clearly. He only remembered their clothes.

The official said again, “You said they were chasing two young men?”

The young man answered honestly, “A man and a girl.”

The official continued to ask, “Did you see what he looked like?”

The young man recalled. “No. Ah, that girl was quite fat.'

After returning to Pear Blossom Lane, Wei Ting asked Yuchi Xiu if there was anyone suspicious.

“No.” Yuchi Xiu shook his head.

He was completely vigilant when he watched the children. No martial arts aura could escape his perception.

Wei Ting's expression softened. It seemed that Pear Blossom Lane was safe for the time being.

There was a high chance that the assassin tonight was coming for him.

Thinking about it, it made sense. She had not formed any grudges with anyone in the capital. If someone disliked her, it would be because of her status as the eldest daughter of the Qin family.

The Wei family was the first to bear the brunt of being the Qin family's mortal enemy, but if the Wei family attacked, they would not kill Wei Ting.

Second was Qin Jiang, and the possibility of Qin Jiang was not high at the moment.

If Qin Jiang really wanted to play dirty, the first person he should deal with was Su Ergou.

Military power was not obtained on the basis of one's daughter being elected as the Third Prince's consort. Conversely, the Third Prince's consort was appointed based on whose family obtained military power.

As this thought flashed through his mind, Wei Ting frowned.

“Did you enter the palace for the selection today?” he asked Su Xiaoxiao.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Yes.”

A cold glint flashed across Wei Ting's eyes.

It wasn't directed at Su Xiaoxiao.

Instead, it was Emperor Jing Xuan, who knew that Su Xiaoxiao had been married in the countryside but still refused to give up on her.

A study companion for the princesses?

Ha.

Su Xiaoxiao opened the first aid kit. “Your hand is injured. I'll treat your injuries.”

Wei Ting looked at the back of his hand. “No need.”

It was just a scratch.

Dahu, Erhu, and Xiaohu would not need to be treated if they were injured to this extent.

“No, we have to treat it!” Su Xiaoxiao's attitude was extremely firm.

Wei Ting looked at the stubborn little girl and then at the almost invisible injury on the back of his hand. A trace of softness flashed across his heart.

Was this girl… so concerned about him?

He stretched out the back of his hand. “Then hurry up.”

If she was a little slower, the wound would heal.

Su Xiaoxiao took out the new ointment from the pharmacy, dipped a cotton swab in it, and applied it evenly on the back of Wei Ting's hand.

Wei Ting looked at the dark and sticky ball with an indescribable expression.

But thinking of her concern, he resisted the urge to complain.

“How do you feel?” Su Xiaoxiao asked. Wei Ting felt it and said, “It's a little cold.”

“Then?” Su Xiaoxiao asked.

“That's all,” Wei Ting said.

Su Xiaoxiao let the ointment sit for a while before taking out a new cotton swab to wipe it away.

“Eh? It's not effective?”

It was the same as before the medicine was applied!

Su Xiaoxiao touched her chin in thought. “Isn't it for treating external injuries?”

Wei Ting asked strangely, “Don't you know what medicine you mixed?”

Su Xiaoxiao spread her hands. “I'm not sure.”

She wasn't the one who mixed it. The pharmacy gave it to her.

Wei Ting's touched blood turned cold.

He looked at a certain someone coldly and gritted his teeth. “So you were just testing the medicine on me?”

Su Xiaoxiao blinked and waved at Wei Ting. “Goodbye!”

Wei Ting returned to the Wei family with a dark expression.

When he stepped into the courtyard and saw Matriarch Wei waiting bitterly in the room, his heart skipped a beat!

Crap.

He had forgotten about the three brats!

The next day, Su Qi and Su Yu came to pick Su Ergou up.

Su Ergou woke up early today to help Su Xiaoxiao. He had just finished boiling the beans when he heard a knock on the door and thought that his father had returned.

He opened the courtyard door and saw Su Qi and Su Yu. He said in surprise, “Eh? So early?”

It was not dawn yet.

Yesterday was much later than today.

Su Ergou had already found out about his background and Su Xiaoxiao had told him that Su MO, Su Qi, and Su Yu were actually his cousins.

Su Ergou sometimes felt that blood relations were very important. For example, he had to be his sister's brother and his father's son.

However, sometimes, he felt that blood relations were not important. Take the Chen family as an example. His biological uncle and cousin did not treat their family very well.

Su Ergou's attitude towards the two of them was as usual.

“Come in.”

He brought the two of them into the central room. “Sit for a while.”

Under Su Xiaoxiao's guidance, he gradually learned to treat others well. When no one provoked him, he was a polite young man.

Su Qi coughed lightly. “Ahem, is your sister here?”

Su Ergou looked in the direction of the backyard. “She's making snacks in the kitchen. Are you looking for my sister?”

Su Qi hurriedly said, “Ah no, no, no, no. You're busy. You guys can keep busy.”

Thinking of something, he asked, “Is there anything we can help with?”

Su Ergou said, “You're late. We're done with the snacks.”

Su Qi was embarrassed. “That… is really a pity.”

Su Xiaoxiao packed the freshly baked snacks in a small wooden box.

Su Qi and Su Yu helped carry the box into the carriage.

In the end, Su Xiaoxiao gave Su Ergou a box of his exclusive snacks.

Su Qi asked, 'What about ours?”

Su Xiaoxiao said in a daze, “Didn't you say you didn't want them yesterday?”

Chapter 308

Wasn't it a slap in the face?

They did not expect their little cousin's snacks to be so delicious.

At first, they thought that it was not much and even gave out a few. Now that they thought about it, they were really regretful!

Su Xiaoxiao spread her hands. “But there's nothing else. I'll make it for you tomorrow.”

Su Ergou hesitated for a moment and said to the two of them, “I'll give you a little.”

The two of them were overjoyed and got into the carriage with smiles.

After arriving at the Directorate, the two of them looked at the small pieces of snacks in their hands and their smiles froze on their lips.

What this kid said… was really a little…

After lunch, Su MO brought the results of the princess's study.

Su Xiaoxiao was chosen.

This was not the result of Su Xiaoxiao's hard work, but it was expected.

Wasn't it a slap in the face?

They did not expect their little cousin's snacks to be so delicious.

At first, they thought that it was not much and even gave out a few. Now that they thought about it, they were really regretful!

Su Xiaoxiao spread her hands. “But there's nothing else. I'll make it for you tomorrow.”

Su Ergou hesitated for a moment and said to the two of them, “I'll give you a little.”

The two of them were overjoyed and got into the carriage with smiles.

After arriving at the Directorate, the two of them looked at the small pieces of snacks in their hands and their smiles froze on their lips.

What this kid said… was really a little…

After lunch, Su MO brought the results of the princess's study.

Su Xiaoxiao was chosen.

This was not the result of Su Xiaoxiao's hard work, but it was expected.

The reason why she had to go was to try and see if she could be chosen even if she threw the game.

As expected, Emperor Jing Xuan really did not care that she had married someone.

Not to mention that she only had a husband in name, even if she did have a legitimate marriage, once her father obtained military power, Emperor Jing Xuan would still give her an imperial edict to betroth her.

“The royal family really knows how to play.”

She flipped through the admission invitation that Su MO had brought. It was in gold foil and was engraved with the emblem of the royal family. It was stamped with the big seal of the Ministry of Rites. It was a proper official document.

“What are you thinking?” Su MO said.

“When is the enrollment?” Su Xiaoxiao asked.

“You… really want to go?” Su MO was surprised.

She had gone to participate to confirm her guess. Now that her guess was confirmed, there was no need to get involved in this mess. “You can only choose between Wei Ting and military power.”

If she wanted Wei Ting, she had to reject the Third Prince's marriage. Then, Emperor Jing Xuan would definitely choose to let Qin Yanran marry into the royal family with military power.

Su Xiaoxiao smiled faintly. “Only children make choices.”

Su MO looked at her in shock. “This is a dead end.”

Su Xiaoxiao patted the gold leaf invitation in her hand. “We'll know after we try.”

If she tried, the success or failure would be 50% each. However, if she did not even try, she would not even have a chance of success.

Madam Li had once said that it was not for the results that she fought. It was because she fought hard that there was a result.

The thought flashed across her mind.

Su Xiaoxiao suddenly realized that she hadn't thought of Madam Li for a long time.

After Su MO left, the teacher in the palace came to visit.

There were two main goals: to tailor clothes for Su Xiaoxiao and to teach her the rules of the palace.

Su Xiaoxiao was not the only one who received such treatment. The other daughters also received an instructor nanny at their residences.

The difference was that the daughters of those aristocratic families had learned etiquette since they were young and had entered the palace several times. They were quite familiar with the palace rules, and the instructors were just going through the motions.

Su Xiaoxiao was confused and didn't even know the emperor's surname.

The teacher was very disdainful. It was fine if she was fat, but she was from the countryside and knew nothing!

The teacher took Su Xiaoxiao's measurements.

“What did you eat to eat yourself like this?”

“It's not your rice anyway.”

The teacher was speechless.

To be fair, Su Xiaoxiao's facial features were very exquisite. She was a beauty with thick facial features. These facial features were so beautiful that they were unattainable and easily made people feel distant. Coincidentally, she had a round face that carried a hint of cuteness.

If not for the fact that she was fat, the teacher would probably think that she was the most beautiful woman she had ever seen.

Who asked a woman of the Great Zhou to be so thin? No matter how beautiful her face was, her flesh would attract strange gazes.

The teacher did not stay in Pear Blossom Lane for long. After getting the measurements, she gave a few perfunctory instructions and left.

“There's not even a reward. How unlucky! ”

The teacher left the courtyard and prepared to step on the wooden stool to get into the carriage.

Coincidentally, school was over for the three little ones. Without waiting for Su Xiaoxiao to pick them up, they ran home.

Dahu ran the fastest like a small cannon. He couldn't stop in time and bumped into the carriage.

The teacher missed a step and fell facedown.

The next morning, after Su Ergou was brought to the Directorate by Su Qi and Su Yu, Su Xiaoxiao sent the three little ones to the house in the east. Su Xiaoxiao saw Master Zhang again. “I might not be back until tonight.”

Hearing this, Master Zhang's eyes lit up. “It's fine! Let them stay here! We'll take good care of them!”

As he spoke, he looked down at the three children like a hungry wolf seeing its prey, making Su Xiaoxiao wonder if she had met a human trafficker. However, the three little ones were very happy to learn here. Master Zhang and

T _incr Viln cynnd npnnlp

Su Xiaoxiao touched their heads. “You have to be good, understand?”

Master Zhang muttered,” No, no, no. Don't be obedient. Torture Ling Yun to death and don't hold back.”

“Got it,” the three little ones agreed.

“Does your head still hurt?” Su Xiaoxiao touched Dahu's forehead, referring to Dahu accidentally hitting the carriage yesterday.

The car panel had cracked, but Dahu was fine.

How tough.

“It doesn't hurt.” Dahu shook his head and thought for a moment before nodding. “It hurts a little. Blow on it.'

Su Xiaoxiao bent down and blew on it.

Xiaohu squeezed over and patted his little head with his small hands. “Xiaohu has to be blown too!”

Su Xiaoxiao smiled and blew on it.

Naturally, Erhu could not fall behind.

The three little ones could only go to school after they were satisfied.

On the other side, Su MO had already arrived.

Su Xiaoxiao got into his carriage and went to the palace.

They arrived late. The other daughters had already entered the palace. A young eunuch with the surname Sun was waiting at the door.

Su MO gave the other party a money bag. Eunuch Sun quietly put it in his sleeve and brought Su Xiaoxiao in with a smile.

This time, there was still a sedan chair waiting, and no eunuch dared to malpractice again. Su Xiaoxiao sat in the sedan chair and swayed towards the location of the class— Qilin Hall.

Qilin Hall was only a wall away from the harem.

When they approached Qilin Hall, the sedan chair suddenly stopped.

Su Xiaoxiao lifted the curtain and saw the eunuch carrying the sedan chair and Eunuch Sun accompanying him. They lowered their heads and looked down as if they were avoiding someone.

Su Xiaoxiao subconsciously looked in the direction of the harem.

A phoenix carriage carried by eight eunuchs slowly walked past. A woman in luxurious palace clothes sat on the phoenix carriage.

Su Xiaoxiao only saw a side profile before the phoenix carriage turned around and went deeper into the palace.

From her side profile and figure, she could not be more than 30 years old. However, there was a hint of maturity in his unattainable aura.

“Who was that person just now?” Su Xiaoxiao asked Eunuch Sun.

Su Xiaoxiao didn't think she shouldn't ask. Eunuch Sun had benefited from Su

MO, so he had to do something.

They started walking again.

Eunuch Sun looked around and leaned close to the window. He whispered to Su

Xiaoxiao, “That person just now was the Grand Empress Dowager.”

“Huh?” Su Xiaoxiao was stunned.. “Such a young Empress Dowager?”

Chapter 309

Eunuch Sun touched the pouch at his waist.

It was heavy and filled with gold.

He hesitated for a moment before telling Su Xiaoxiao.

It turned out that this Grand Empress Dowager was the niece-in-law of the previous emperor.

The late emperor's brother had a total of three sons, the eldest of whom was also the legitimate son. Naturally, he would be appointed the position of Crown Prince.

However, this legitimate son had been weak since he was young. He relied heavily on medicine and was powerless to govern.

Before Emperor Jing Yuan passed away, he entrusted his son to his biological brother, the late emperor, and conferred the late emperor as the regent, who supervised the country on his behalf.

After the Crown Prince ascended the throne as Emperor Jing Hui, he fell ill every other day. The enemy countries eyed the country covetously and kept starting wars at the border.

At that time, the previous emperor, who was still the Regent, went out to conquer the north and south to calm the world.

Emperor Jing Hui's body was weak and he did not leave behind a son or a daughter. He also refused to adopt a prince from the side branch. Before he died, he issued an imperial edict to let his uncle, the Regent, inherit the throne.

The Grand Empress Dowager was the queen consort of Emperor Jing Hui. At that time, Emperor Jing Hui had already exhausted his life. She entered the palace to ward away the ill luck for him.

Unexpectedly, Emperor Jing Hui died not long after.

That year, she had just turned 13 years old. She was clearly a little girl who Imew nothing. She became the empress without even consummating her marriage and became the Empress Dowager.

The previous emperor had been emperor for two years and had passed away. The fourth prince had ascended the throne and was the current emperor— Emperor Jing Xuan.

Emperor Jing Xuan had been in power for 17 years. The Empress Dowager was only in her early thirties.

“Grand Empress Dowager!”

Accompanied by a delicate voice, a girl in a pink gauze dress ran out of the Qilin Hall.

Because of her cry, the Empress Dowager's phoenix carriage stopped.

Eunuch Sun continued to explain to Su Xiaoxiao, “That's Princess Lingxi. She's extremely doted on by the Grand Empress Dowager.”

Su Xiaoxiao looked at her and then at the Qilin Hall not far away. She asked, “Is she also here to be a study companion of the princesses?”

“Yes,” Eunuch Sun said.

Su Xiaoxiao asked strangely, “I didn't see her take the exam yesterday.”

Eunuch Sun smiled. “Ah, Princess Lingxi doesn't have to take the exam. She has the spot given by the Empress Dowager.” Su Xiaoxiao said, “Oh, I understand.” Related family.

Su Xiaoxiao looked at Princess Lingxi again.

Since they were connected, she had to remember her appearance.

At this moment, the Grand Empress Dowager turned around and smiled warmly at Princess Lingxi. Su Xiaoxiao suddenly paused.

Her eyebrows…

She blinked, wanting to take a few more glances. Princess Lingxi had already circled to the front of the phoenix carriage, and the Grand Empress Dowager had also turned her head.

Su Xiaoxiao looked at the Grand Empress Dowager's figure in a daze.

Did she miss Madam Li too much?

Or could it be that she had not recalled her for too long and felt guilty? She even saw a hint of her in a stranger's facial features.

The sedan chair stopped at the entrance of Qilin Hall. Eunuch Sun brought Su Xiaoxiao to the spacious and bright classroom.

There were eight long tables in the classroom, four rows in total.

No one sat in the first row. The tables at the back were very short. The young ladies sat on futons.

Qin Yanran sat in the second row on the left. The daughter of the Leng family sat in the same row, but she was not at the same table as Qin Yanran. She sat on the right.

Miss Hong, who played with Su Xiaoxiao last time, probably failed. Su Xiaoxiao didn't see her.

Su Xiaoxiao found an empty seat and was about to sit down when the young lady said, “There's someone here.”

Su Xiaoxiao went to another row and received the same answer.

No one wanted to sit with her.

Su Xiaoxiao turned around and went straight to the first row to sit at the long table on the left.

Everyone gasped!

She was in trouble.

This fat girl from the countryside was in big trouble!

She was really blind!

Why didn't she think about the reason no one dared to sit in the first row?

“See? I told you she was stupid.” “Shh, lower your voice.”

“What are you afraid of? She can't hear you.”

The daughters in the back row whispered.

Qin Yanran lowered her eyes and flipped through a poetry book she had brought over, seemingly not hearing anything.

Not long after, Princess Hui An came over.

Emperor Jing Xuan had specially instructed that after entering the palace, she would only be a student and could not call herself a princess. Even so, how many people did not treat her as a princess?

Everyone fell silent.

Princess Hui An glanced at the front row and saw an unfamiliar fat girl sitting there. She did not say anything and sat at the right table in the first row.

Since ancient times, the left was respected. Princess Hui An knew very well that the position of the first on the left was Jingning.

However, she wouldn't care if others dared to snatch the position from Jingning.

How could the daughters know what she was thinking?

They felt that that little fat girl was really lucky to avoid Princess Hui An's anger.

The entire class was almost there when Princess Jing Ning arrived late.

She came late for a reason. Her face was covered in acne again.

She was ordinary-looking, to begin with, and with this face full of acne, it was simply unbearable to look at.

She wore a veil and a forehead accessory, barely covering most of it, but she did not feel comfortable.

Princess Hui An smiled gloatingly. “Yo, you have bumps on your face again? How many times this year?”

Princess Hui An had a flawless face and delicate skin. Even without applying lotions, her skin was so tender that water could be pinched out.

Her status could not compare to Jingning's, so she attacked the latter's appearance.

Princess Jing Ning glanced at her coldly. “If you say another word, I'll slap your mouth!”

Princess Hui An snorted. “How dare you!” Princess Jing Ning walked forward. “Let's see if I dare!”

“The teacher is here!” a young lady reminded.

The two princesses stopped fighting for the time being. Princess Hui An rolled her eyes and looked away.

Princess Jing Ning came to her seat.

To her surprise, there was someone sitting in the seat.

The table in the classroom could seat two people, but Jingning and Hui An were princesses. They each had a table.

There was a tacit understanding.

Princess Jing Ning recognized this bold little girl. She was the “pitiful girl” who had been isolated yesterday.

Was she sitting here… expressing goodwill to her?

Because she had lent her the sedan chair yesterday?

Speaking of which, the little girl was quite pitiful.

After all, she was the princess of a country. No matter how those people criticized her behind her back, she would not suffer at all on the surface. Unlike this little girl, who was bullied by a few eunuchs on her first day in the palace—

It was reasonable for her to seek Princess Jingning's protection. Princess Jingning, who lacked friends, automatically imagined Su Xiaoxiao's inner thoughts.

The daughters who were waiting for Su Xiaoxiao to be taught a lesson watched helplessly as Princess Jingning sat down beside Su Xiaoxiao.

She had no temper at all.

Everyone was dumbfounded.

The teacher came in with the book. Princess Jing Ning calmly opened the book on the table. “I approve.”

Su Xiaoxiao looked confused.

What did she approve?

Was she talking to her?

Chapter 310

In the morning, there was an Analects and Calligraphy class. The Master's surname was Jiang and he came from the Hanlin Academy. He was 42 years old this year and was a rather experienced Hanlin official.

After he entered the classroom, all the students, including the two princesses, stood up and bowed to him.

This was Su Xiaoxiao's first bow as a student. She followed Princess Jingning's example.

Princess Jingning thought to herself, “She's even looking at me.'

After Master Jiang gestured for everyone to sit down, they began the official lesson.

Su Xiaoxiao's special appearance and the fact that she was sitting in the first row made her look especially eye-catching.

Master Jiang glanced at her and realized that her table was empty.

Master Jiang frowned. “Where's your book?”

Su Xiaoxiao looked around.

There was an Analects book on everyone's table, except hers.

She said, “No one sent it to me.”

The young ladies chuckled.

Master Jiang frowned and said, “You have to bring the book yourself! Didn't anyone tell you to bring the book?”

“No,” Su Xiaoxiao said truthfully.

The Master from yesterday did not say anything.

“Nonsense!” Master Jiang did not believe it. He and the other Masters had already reported what they needed to prepare yesterday. Ever since the officials of the Ministry of Political Affairs contacted the Internal Affairs Department and saw that the other daughters had prepared, it was obvious that they had been informed.

To him, it was obvious she had forgotten to bring it. She actually found a terrible excuse for herself.

Master Jiang's impression of this new student was instantly discounted. “Use mine.” Princess Jingning generously placed her book between the two of them.

If it were anyone else who did this, they would have long been scolded by Master Jiang—if you were capable and united, then go help her dress and eat!

But the other party was a princess.

Master Jiang swallowed his anger. “Let's start class.”

Thinking of something, he suddenly asked, “Which one is Miss Su?”

Su Xiaoxiao silently raised her chubby hand. “Me.”

Master Jiang was speechless.

Master Jiang was teaching the Liren Chapter of the Analects of Confucius today.

“It's beautiful to be benevolent. How can you know if you choose not to be benevolent? Those who are not benevolent can't date for long or be happy. Those who are benevolent are benevolent, and those who know are benevolent. Those who chase benevolence can be good. There's no evil.” “Which student knows what the next sentence is?” As he spoke, his gaze landed on Princess Hui An's eager face.

“Princess Hui An, please tell me.” “Huh?”

Princess Hui An was stunned.

She did not understand why her name was suddenly called out.

“Those who chase benevolence can be good. There's no evil. Next sentence.” Master Jiang thought that she did not hear him clearly and repeated.

Princess Hui An couldn't answer.

She looked like she was listening attentively so Master Jiang still thought she

Imew a lot…

“Master, I know,” Princess Jingning said.

Master Jiang was stunned. “Uh… Then, Princess Jingning, tell me.”

Under such circumstances, only Princess Jingning had the confidence to answer the questions that Princess Hui An could not answer. How could those daughters dare to slap Princess Hui An's face?

Princess Jingning stood up and replied unhurriedly, “Wealth and nobility are human desires. If you don't obtain them with your Tao, you won't have anywhere to go. Poverty and cheapness are human evils. If you don't obtain them with your Tao, you won't have anywhere to go. If a gentleman is benevolent, is he evil to become famous? If a gentleman doesn't end up eating, he will go against his benevolence. If he makes a mistake, he will make a choice.”

“I've never seen a kind person or an evil person. A kind person will not be unkind to an evil person. Is it enough to use my strength to be kind for a day? I've never seen a person with insufficient strength.

Master Jiang only asked her to say the next sentence, but she went ahead and said two paragraphs.

It was a slap to Princess Hui An's face.

Master Jiang did not expect her to memorize so much in one go. He pressed his hands in a daze. “No, not bad. Princess Jingning, please sit.” Princess Hui An was so angry that her face turned green!

The second lesson was calligraphy.

There was no need to bring her own brush, ink, paper, and inkstone. The school had prepared it.

Master Jiang taught them to write in italics. After saying that, he sent out a calligraphy piece for everyone to practice.

He came down to walk around and observe how his students were writing.

Princess Hui An's handwriting was indescribable.

The corners of Master Jiang's mouth twitched.

He finally understood that this royalty's seriousness was all for show. She was actually an idiot.

He came to Princess Jingning's side again.

Princess Jingning surprised him. Her handwriting was bold and powerful, retaining the beauty of a woman and the heroic spirit of a man.

He nodded to himself, feeling very satisfied.

As for Su Xiaoxiao, he did not pay attention to her at all.

He looked at the others' words.

These daughters had all been screened. Their comprehensive ability was outstanding, so their calligraphy was naturally not bad.

Among them, Qin Yanran and Leng Zhiruo's calligraphy was the most outstanding.

Princess Lingxi accompanied the Grand Empress Dowager in the harem for a long time. She only arrived late when the class was almost over.

“The Grand Empress Dowager is a little unwell. Princess Lingxi has been taking care of her for a long time and has delayed class.” Eunuch Tan, who was beside the Grand Empress Dowager, said.

Master Jiang said politely that it was fine and let Princess Lingxi take a seat.

There were two empty seats in the class. One was in the last row, and the other was beside Princess Hui An.

Without thinking, Princess Lingxi sat in the last row.

There was no other reason.

Princess Lingxi and Princess Hui An were love rivals.

What the two of them did not know was that their real love rival was sitting beside Princess Jingning at this moment. Her chubby hand was holding a brush as she scribbled on the calligraphy paper.

Compared to doing business, school time passed too slowly.

Finally, the morning class ended. The palace servants came to bring everyone to the Bright Moon Pavilion for lunch and a rest.

After all, the Qilin Hall was under the jurisdiction of the imperial court. It was fine if the female students were teaching here, but it was a little impolite to sleep and rest in the hall.

Everyone was assigned to their own rooms.

The princesses could return to their rooms. Princess Hui An did not want to stay for lunch. She returned to Concubine Xian's Qi Xiang Palace, and Princess

Jingning planned to return to Kunning Palace.

“Your Highness.”

The little palace maid beside Princess Jingning handed her a brocade box.

Princess Jing Ning asked, “What is it?” The little palace maid said, “I'm not sure.”

“Who gave it to you?” Princess Jing Ning asked.

The little palace maid said, “Miss Su asked me to send it to you.”

“Open it,” Princess Jingning said.

“Yes.” The little palace maid opened the brocade box, and a sweet fragrance wafted out.

It was a wife cake and egg yolk pastry.

Was her classmate expressing goodwill?

Could it be… that she wanted to eat with her?

Princess Jing Ning imagined the scene of the little fat girl eating alone and being isolated and mocked by everyone. She was so aggrieved that she could not eat and teared up.

She sighed. “Forget it. Let her eat at my place.”

Hence, Su Xiaoxiao, who had just sat down and was about to taste the food of the palace canteen, was “strongly” taken away by Princess Jingning's palace servants. Su Xiaoxiao was speechless.

What was going on?

Chapter 311

Su Xiaoxiao really had no intention of going to Princess Jingning's place to freeload.

She gave Princess Jingning snacks purely to thank Princess Jingning for lending her a sedan chair yesterday.

Moreover, in order not to cause any beautiful misunderstandings, Su Xiaoxiao didn't give it to her in person.

Unexpectedly, Princess Jingning still read too much into it.

Kunning Palace was the Empress's residence, but not everyone was qualified to see the Empress. Even Princess Jingning's classmate might not be summoned by the Empress.

Of course, the Empress was not around today either. She had gone to the Empress Dowager's bedroom.

The two of them ate in Princess Jingning's room.

The palace maid brought over a basin and a towel for the two of them to wash their hands.

After washing up, Princess Jingning hesitated for a moment before raising her
hand to gently remove her veil.

She was… not good-looking.

She had always known very well, but she did not like to expose her flaws in front of others.

She regretted bringing her classmate over for a meal.

She swore that if this little girl dared to show a trace of mockery, she would get someone to beat her up!

Thinking of this, she looked at Su Xiaoxiao warily.

Unexpectedly, Su Xiaoxiao didn't look at her at all. Instead… she stared straight at the food on the table… She was just short of drooling.

There was no choice. As a fatty, she got hungry quickly.

“Your Highness Jingning, can we eat now?” Su Xiaoxiao asked her.

Su Xiaoxiao's eyes were clean and pure.

For a moment, Princess Jingning wondered if she had not taken off her veil…

She hurriedly touched her face.

“Are you feeling unwell?” Su Xiaoxiao asked.

After confirming that Su Xiaoxiao really didn't care about her appearance,

Princess Jingning calmed down and said to Su Xiaoxiao, “No, let's eat.”

The food in Kunning Palace was quite sumptuous. The food in school could not compare.

Su Xiaoxiao was very hungry.

She did not know the palace rules, but she had basic etiquette.

After Princess Jingning moved her chopsticks, she began to eat.

Princess Jingning had many close friends, commonly known as handkerchief friends.

They were close to Princess Jingning and treated her well.

Princess Jingning was not stingy with her kindness.

It was not until one day when she accidentally heard them laughing at her behind her back that she realized that they were pretending to be good to her.

If she was not the Empress's daughter or the Princess of the first wife, they would not be willing to speak to her at all.

In Princess Jingning's opinion, Su Xiaoxiao was probably the same.

The reason why she didn't reject Su Xiaoxiao's “favor” was purely because Su Xiaoxiao was a little fatty and came from the commoners. She was neglected and was quite similar to her.

“You don't have to be restrained…

Princess Jing Ning was about to remind Su Xiaoxiao not to follow the palace rules and eat boldly when she was stunned.

“Huh?” Su Xiaoxiao looked up at her.

Su Xiaoxiao had just bitten a glutinous meatball. Her cheeks were puffed up and she looked a little cute.

The palace servants covered their faces and snickered.

Princess Jingning cleared her throat. “It's fine. You eat.”

Su Xiaoxiao swallowed the meatball. “Oh, you eat too. Don't stand on ceremony.”

Princess Jingning was speechless.

Princess Jingning ate half a bowl more than usual for no other reason. Su Xiaoxiao's eating style made the food seem too delicious, and she couldn't help it.

“Your Highness, it's time to apply medication.”

The little palace maid walked over with a bottle of ointment.

The two of them had already finished eating.

Princess Jingning called over a young eunuch. “Take Miss Su to the room to rest.”

“Yes,” the young eunuch agreed and bowed to Su Xiaoxiao. “Miss Su, this way
please.

“Wait a moment.” Su Xiaoxiao turned to look at Princess Jingning. “What medicine are you applying?”

The little palace maid hesitated.

'Is that something you can ask?'

Princess Jingning hesitated for a moment and said, “The medicine for the face.”

“Oh.” Su Xiaoxiao took out a bottle of Bezoar Detox Pills from her small pouch. “Try this.”

This medicine was effective in clearing the heat and detoxification. It could be taken internally or applied externally.

Princess Jingning clearly needed to clear her internal heat. It should be the right treatment.

But the acne on her face…

Su Xiaoxiao thought of the new ointment in the pharmacy.

She had packed it at home and was carrying a small bottle.

She took it out and instructed, “Take two yellow pills once a day. Apply the black ointment to the spot. Don't use it more than twice.”

Princess Jingning looked at the medicine bottle on the table and hesitated.

The little palace maid dissuaded her. “Princess, don't use medicine recklessly..

Don't you remember that the last time you used a folk prescription, you almost destroyed your face?”

Chapter 312

That was last year.

Princess Jingning's face had not recovered for a month. In her desperation, she found a prescription from the commoners. After using it, her entire face was swollen like a pig's head. In the end, it was Imperial Physician Hu who developed the correct ointment to reduce the swelling on her face bit by bit.

Thinking of this, she felt a lingering fear.

Su Xiaoxiao was very confident in the medicine in the pharmacy. It had treated Su Yuan's allergies, cured the Old Marquis' poison, and healed her wound.

However, she could not force her to use it.

Moreover, this medication was very precious. She had taken out so much in one go because Princess Jingning had treated her to a meal.

This was all she had.

After using it, this medicine was gone.

Princess Jing Ning said, “I'll take the medication. Go rest.”

Su Xiaoxiao went to the next room to rest.

The little palace maid opened the ointment in her hand. “Princess, this is a new ointment personally brewed by Imperial Physician Hu. It's said to be more effective than before. I'll apply it for you.”

“1VRFL”vRrimgsyIicngnina

Princess Jingning's face had not recovered for a month. In her desperation, she found a prescription from the commoners. After using it, her entire face was swollen like a pig's head. In the end, it was Imperial Physician Hu who developed the correct ointment to reduce the swelling on her face bit by bit.

Thinking of this, she felt a lingering fear.

Su Xiaoxiao was very confident in the medicine in the pharmacy. It had treated Su Yuan's allergies, cured the Old Marquis' poison, and healed her wound.

However, she could not force her to use it.

Moreover, this medication was very precious. She had taken out so much in one go because Princess Jingning had treated her to a meal.

This was all she had.

After using it, this medicine was gone.

Princess Jing Ning said, “I'll take the medication. Go rest.”

Su Xiaoxiao went to the next room to rest.

The little palace maid opened the ointment in her hand. “Princess, this is a new ointment personally brewed by Imperial Physician Hu. It's said to be more effective than before. I'll apply it for you.”

“Yes.” Princess Jingning nodded indifferently.

The little palace maid finished applying the ointment on Princess Jing Ning and retreated to let her rest.

Princess Jingning lay on the bed and tossed and turned. Her face was itchy, making it difficult for her to fall asleep.

Imperial Physician Huts medication had been effective the first few times, but it gradually stopped working. Today, it was said that he had changed the prescription, but she felt that other than feeling a little cool at first, it was soon similar to the old medication.

“It's so itchy.”

Princess Jingning wanted to grab it, but as soon as she touched it, it hurt again.

Princess Jingning felt extremely uncomfortable and anxious.

Suddenly, her gaze landed on the small medicine bottle that Su Xiaoxiao had left behind.

Princess Jing Ning opened the medicine bottle, poured out two pills, and ate them.

This bottle of medicine was nothing, but the ointment was really… black and sticky. It looked disgusting.

Princess Jing Ning held back her disgust and dipped a small lump into the acne.

It was very cooling.

Then, she lay on the bed and fell asleep.

She slept surprisingly comfortably.

It was time for class. Two palace maids stood guard at the door, not knowing whether to call out or not.

“Sister Zi Yun, should we wake the Princess up?”

“The Princess hasn't been sleeping well these past few days. It's rare for her to sleep. Let the Princess sleep.”

In the afternoon, there was a riding and archery class.

The other daughters had brought riding clothes. Only Su Xiaoxiao didn't know and didn't prepare them in advance.

Seeing her come over in the morning clothes, the daughters could not help but sneer.

Su Xiaoxiao had a calm expression and ignored everyone's mockery.

There was an empty grassland southeast of the Qilin Hall. The palace servants had already brought the horses over.

Princess Hui An had her own exclusive mount. It was a maroon Ferghana horse. It was not as tall as the warhorses in the military camp, but its speed and explosive power could not be underestimated.

Princess Hui An first rode her horse a few times on the grassland, causing everyone to exclaim.

“Princess Hui An's horse is so beautiful!”

“That's right! It's so fast! It's the strongest horse I've ever seen!” “Don't you understand? Ordinary people can't ride such a Ferghana horse.” “I heard that Princess Hui An's riding skills were taught by the Third Prince.”

“No wonder she rode so well!”

Qin Yanran listened to the discussion beside her, her eyes revealing a trace of yearning.

When she became the Third Prince's consort… she could also…

Her thoughts were interrupted by the sound of elegant hooves.

It was Princess Lingxi.

She was not riding a horse prepared by the palace servants. She seemed to be taller than Princess Hui An's Ferghana horse.

Su Xiaoxiao felt that Princess Lingxi's horse was a little familiar. It seemed to be of the same breed as her foal.

Princess Lingxi's horse caught up to Princess Hui An's Ferghana horse.

Princess Hui An frowned and waved her horsewhip. “Giddyup!”

Princess Lingxi also waved the whip in her hand. “Giddyup!”

The two of them actually raced on the grassland.

The daughter of the Lu family was dumbfounded. “Heavens, what horse is Princess Lingxi riding? She can actually catch up to Princess Hui An!”

“Big Food Horse.”

The person who spoke was the daughter of the Leng family, Leng Zhiruo.

She was just like her name. Her temperament was cold and unapproachable.

“What kind of horse is a Big Food Horse?” Miss Lu didn't know much about horses.

Qin Yanran said, “It's the most suitable horse for combat. I heard from my father that a Big Food Horse is more heat-resistant than a Mongolian horse and more resistant to the cold than a Ferghana horse. It's fast, explosive, and has a stable personality. It's suitable for facing enemies head-on and surprise attacks.. “

Chapter 313

Hearing her say this, everyone suddenly remembered that the Protectorate had an invincible heavy cavalry.

Everyone's attention immediately shifted from Leng Zhiruo to Qin Yanran.

“Miss Qin, your riding skills must be very good, right?” Miss Lu asked. “Later… can you teach me how to ride?”

Although they were here to teach riding and archery, it was obvious that Princess Hui An could already ride a horse. Princess Jingning was not here, so there was no need to accommodate her. The teacher would teach according to Princess Hui An's standards.

These daughters who did not know how to ride horses probably did not have much chance to learn from scratch.

“Miss Qin, can you teach me too?” The daughter of the Lin family leaned over.

“And me!”

“I want to learn too!”

Qin Yanran smiled and said humbly, “I actually only learned a little from Father…

Miss Lu said, “Don't belittle yourself! You're the daughter of a wealthy family.

Even if you only learned a little, it will still be much better than others!”

Miss Lin said sarcastically, “That's right, unlike some people who don't have any specialties. They clearly got last place, but they still insisted on getting in through the back door!”

These words were just short of naming Su Xiaoxiao.

Of course, Su Xiaoxiao knew that she had “tested” last, but the school had not announced her results. How did Miss Lin know?

Coincidentally, Miss Lin's father happened to be one of the marking officials yesterday. He was reading silent books and composing poems.

This was the first time he had seen such ugly words. He almost tore the paper apart on the spot!

After all, he was not taking the imperial examination and was not that strict. His name was not written on the paper. He looked at the words “Su Daya” and his mind buzzed.

She didn't get a single question right.

When it came to poetry… the title was not bad.

However, when he finished reading it confidently… his colleagues around him roared with laughter.

He read it again before realizing that he had been scolded by an examinee!

Lord Lin was furious.

He was not the only one who was angry.

In short, after reading the paper, the examiners were all fuming. They could not remember who the first place was at all. They only remembered someone called Su Daya… One could not carve rotten wood!

Su Xiaoxiao didn't know that her name had already become famous at Hanlin Academy. Otherwise, she would definitely understand why Teacher Jiang asked who Miss Su was before class.

“So she's last… Then on what basis can she still be a princess study companion?”

“Exactly!”

“The person who was pushed down by her is so pitiful…'

Qin Yanran said, “Miss Lin, stop joking. We all got into the accompanying school with our strength. I believe no one will do this.”

Miss Lin glanced at Su Xiaoxiao and said to Qin Yanran, “You're just too kind-hearted and don't know the dangers of the world. Some people will do anything to achieve their goals!”

If they were to ask how their hostility towards Su Xiaoxiao came about, it actually had nothing to do with Su Xiaoxiao not getting last place.

As the daughters of aristocratic families, they were born with a sense of superiority and looked down on girls from the countryside.

Secondly, Su Xiaoxiao's status was more important than theirs.

After Lord Wu An died in battle, Qin Canglan was the most powerful general in the Great Zhou. He had real power and privileges. As Qin Canglan's biological granddaughter, one could imagine how high her status was.

When Qin Yanran was the first daughter, she was really talented. They accepted it.

But on what basis should the girl from the countryside suppress them?

“Miss Leng, don't you think so?” Miss Lin continued to pull people into her camp.

The Leng family and the Wei family were best friends, so they naturally did not get along with the Qin family. This could be seen from the competition between Qin Yanran and Leng Zhiruo.

“It's time to choose a horse.” However, Leng Zhiruo was clearly not interested in this topic. She turned around and left.

Qin Yanran said calmly, “Miss Lin, if you want to learn how to ride a horse from Miss Leng…”

Miss Lin hurriedly said, “No, no! I wanted to learn from you!”

She turned around. “Eh? Where's the country girl?”

They had been mocking her for half a day, but she did not listen at all..

Chapter 314

Su Xiaoxiao went to choose a horse.

The horses were led by the eunuchs and stood on the grassland in boredom.

From the appearance and spirit of the horses, these horses were much better than the horses she had seen in the horse market in town.

Compared to the two horses that Qin Canglan brought over last time, they seemed to be a little inferior.

It was enough to teach the daughters of the Gong Xue how to ride and shoot.

Su Xiaoxiao casually turned around and stopped in front of a black horse.

“This horse doesn't carry enough weight. You're more suitable for the horse beside you.”

Su Xiaoxiao turned around.

The person who spoke was the daughter of the Leng family, Leng Zhiruo.

Teacher Jiang had asked her questions in class, and Su Xiaoxiao remembered her.

Su Xiaoxiao nodded and listened to her suggestion. She came to the horse beside her.

This horse was indeed stronger.

Leng Zhiruo had already chosen a horse and flipped herself up onto the horse.

“Not enough explosive power, but novices don't need it either.”

As soon as she finished speaking, she took the horsewhip from the palace maid and shouted, “Giddy up.” The horse left in the dust and began to run on the grassland.

Su Xiaoxiao looked at her heroic back and suddenly remembered that the Leng family was also a military power family. Leng Zhiruo was the daughter of a general.

Leng Zhiruo rode on her own and did not participate in the competition between Princess Hui An and Princess Lingxi. The other daughters also came to choose horses.

Qin Yanran chose a horse for herself.

Logically speaking, the palace maids had to adjust the saddles for the daughters.

Leng Zhiruo didn't need anyone to do it for her, but no one came to do it for Su Xiaoxiao.

Su Xiaoxiao recalled Leng Zhiruo adjusting the saddle and followed suit.

Qin Yanran rode her horse over and looked down at Su Xiaoxiao. “Your horse can't run fast.”

Su Xiaoxiao looked at her in confusion.

Miss Lin smiled at Qin Yanran and said, “Miss Qin, help me choose a horse! I don't know which horse is better?”

Seeing that Su Xiaoxiao was ignoring her, Qin Yanran felt that she was asking for a rebuff and went to help Miss Lin and the others choose horses.

Halfway through the selection, there was a situation between Princess Lingxi and Princess Huian.

Princess Lingxi's horse accidentally bumped into Princess Hui An's horse.

Frightened, Princess Hui An's horse galloped crazily in the grassland.

Princess Hui An could not stop the horse and cried out in fear.

Seeing this, Princess Lingxi panicked and tried to save Princess Hui An. However, the more she chased, the more frightened Princess Hui An's horse was.

In the blink of an eye, the horse bumped into the ladies.

Princess Hui An's expression changed drastically. “Ah! Move aside!” Qin Yanran spurred her horse to dodge.

She had dodged, but the daughters behind her who were not good at riding would suffer.

One of the horses was shocked and raised its front hooves.

“Ah!” The lady on the horse screamed in fear.

Su Xiaoxiao reached out and grabbed her off the horse.

However, her own horse was also frightened. Just as she put her down, her horse ran forward crazily.

She clamped her legs on the horse's flank and gripped the reins tightly with both hands to prevent herself from falling off the horse.

The scene was in chaos. Other than Leng Zhiruo and Qin Yanran, everyone else's horses were shocked to varying degrees.

Leng Zhiruo urged her horse to chase after her. “Princess Lingxi! Command your horse to stop running!”

Princess Lingxi cried, “I… I can't stop either…”

The daughters who did not get on their horses hid far away and looked at the out-of-control racecourse in fear.

Miss Wang covered her face and exclaimed, “Not good! They're going to collide!”

Princess Hui An and Su Xiaoxiao's horses collided with each other…

“Get out of my way!”

She couldn't dodge it.

Su Xiaoxiao's eyes turned cold as she secretly calculated the angle and distance between her and Princess Hui An.

She could only abandon the horse to save her life. She would probably break a few bones. She wondered if this noble princess could withstand a fall.

Five steps, four steps, three steps…

At the critical moment, a figure in black flew over and sat on Su Xiaoxiao's horse.

He sat behind Su Xiaoxiao and grabbed the reins that Su Xiaoxiao was holding tightly. He shouted and suddenly turned the frightened horse around!

Princess Hui An closed her eyes in fear and brushed past Su Xiaoxiao's horse!

The danger did not stop. In front of Princess Hui An was a fence about the height of a person.

Princess Hui An opened her eyes. “Ahhhh!”

Hong Luan and Bai Ze exchanged glances. Hong Luan sprang and pounced on Princess Hui An from the horse. Bai Ze quickly hugged the horse's neck and was dragged forward for dozens of feet before sitting on the horse's back.

If it was an ordinary horse, it would be fine to kill it.

But this was a royal horse.

He could not kill it. He could only think of a way to stop it.

On the other side, Su Xiaoxiao's horse was gradually controlled by Jing Yi.

The young man had grown taller again. His arms had the strength of an adult man and he hugged Su Xiaoxiao tightly, stable and calm.

“Jing Yi.” Su Xiaoxiao turned to look at him.

The two of them were a little close.

Jing Yi's ears turned slightly red as he said calmly, “It's fine. Don't be afraid.” “Oh, I'm not afraid,” Su Xiaoxiao said. “It's your hand…”

Jing Yi had used too much strength just now. His palm was scratched and blood
seeped out of the reins.

“You're injured,” Su Xiaoxiao said.

Jing Yi did not pay attention to his injuries immediately. Instead, he looked at her dress.

Seeing that he did not dirty her clothes, his expression softened.

“I'm fine,” he said.

He dismounted and reached out to help Su Xiaoxiao.

Thinking of something, she took out a handkerchief and wrapped it around the blood on his palm.

She was careful and carried the innocence and piety of a young man.

Su Xiaoxiao was afraid of hurting him, so she gently held his wrist.

Everyone looked at this scene in disbelief.

She thought that this girl would not be able to avoid the danger just now. Even if she did not die, she would be crippled. Who would have thought that Young Marquis Jing would appear in time?

Miss Lin said infatuatedly, “The way Young Marquis Jing saved her… is so handsome!”

Young Marquis Jing had just turned 17 this year and was not old enough to be crowned. In the past, they only felt that Young Marquis Jing was still a child, but just now, he was filled with the aura and charm of an adult man.

Everyone was shocked.

It turned out that the young man could also give people a great sense of security.

No one thought that Jing Yi had anything to do with Su Xiaoxiao. How could a wandering girl be qualified to make Young Marquis Jing bow down to her?

It was Young Marquis Jing who was heroic and righteous. If it were anyone else, Young Marquis Jing would have saved them without hesitation. Only Qin Yanran knew that Jing Yi and Su Xiaoxiao knew each other.

Back in Qingzhou, Jing Yi had helped Su Ergou.

Today, he ignored Princess Hui An, who was closer to him, and saved Su Xiaoxiao. Look at Princess Hui An. Her forehead was bruised.

Hong Luan helped Princess Hui An up. “Princess.”

Princess Hui An pushed her away angrily. “Go away!”

She had fallen badly. Not only did she have a headache, but her feet hurt too! She limped to Jing Yi and pointed at Su Xiaoxiao, complaining, “Why didn't you save me?”

Jing Yi said, “Hong Luan went to save you.”

Princess Hui An exploded. “I don't want a servant to save me! Look what he did to me!”

JingYi paused and said, “Your horse is too fast. If I were the one to save you, I would have made you fall too.”

Princess Hui An was speechless.

At this moment, Xiao Zhonghua came over.

Jing Yi had entered the palace with him. It was only because of the emergency just now that Jing Yi used his qinggong first.

When Princess Hui An saw him, the grievance in her heart surged as tears rolled down her face. “Wuwu… Third Brother…

Su Xiaoxiao looked at Xiao Zhonghua strangely. “Third… Brother? You're not

Young Master Xiang?”

The eunuch at the side shouted, “How dare you! This is the Third Prince!”

Chapter 315

Jing Yi's gaze was dangerous.

The eunuch felt a chill run down his spine.

Everyone bowed to Xiao Zhonghua, except Su Xiaoxiao, who looked at him meaningfully.

Jing Yi was the Young Marquis. As his cousin, Young Master Xiang's background was not too bad. However, she did not expect him to be the rumored Third Prince.

“You girl…” The eunuch was about to scold her when he was stopped by Xiao Zhonghua's cold gaze.

The eunuch shrunk his neck and bowed his head.

Xiao Zhonghua said warmly, “Sorry, I hid my identity when I was patrolling in Qingzhou. However, Zhonghua is indeed my name.” The eunuch suspected that he had heard wrongly.

The Third Prince… was actually apologizing to a little girl?

Princess Hui An couldn't be bothered to complain for a moment and asked
suspiciously, “Third Brother… do you know each other?”

Xiao Zhonghua smiled and said, “I fell seriously ill in Qingzhou. It's all thanks to Miss Su's brilliant medical skills.”

Princess Hui An was enlightened. “Ah, you're the civilian physician who cured my third brother?”

Xiao Zhonghua continued, “Miss Su has also treated Jing Yi's injuries. I was the one who asked Jing Yi to stop Miss Su's horse. Don't be angry with Jing Yi.”

On the surface, he was asking Princess Hui An not to be angry with Jing Yi, but he was actually asking her not to be angry with Su Xiaoxiao.

Jing Yi was Princess Hui An's cousin. So what if Princess Hui An was angry with him? She couldn't really do anything to Jing Yi.

Su Xiaoxiao was different.

If she was an eyesore to Princess Hui An, her days in the palace would be more difficult in the future.

What happened today was caused by the competition between Princess Hui An and Princess Lingxi, but the teachers who did not arrive early had an undeniable responsibility.

“Who's the teacher?” Xiao Zhonghua asked.

The eunuch in charge of the horse said, 'Your Highness, it's the lieutenant general. The general over there is the future general.”

The physician arrived late. When he saw that Xiao Zhonghua and Jing Yi were also there, his expression changed in fear and he hurriedly bowed and apologized.

“Don't come tomorrow.” Xiao Zhonghua fired the lieutenant general.

“The two of you…” Xiao Zhonghua looked at Princess Hui An and Princess Lingxi.

Everyone knew why the two of them fought.

One wanted Wei Ting to be the Prince Consort, and the other wanted Wei Ting to be the County Consort.

Ironically, Wei Ting would rather become a monk.

Xiao Zhonghua asked solemnly, “Do you know how dangerous it was just now? You almost injured someone?”

Princess Hui An muttered, “Aren't you fine?”

Princess Lingxi echoed softly, “That's right.”

Princess Hui An suddenly felt that something was wrong. She turned around and glared at her. “Yes, yes! I sprained my ankle!”

Princess Lingxi mocked, “You sprained someone else's ankle!”

Princess Hui An's pretty face darkened. “That's all because of you!” Princess Lingxi said disapprovingly, “How did I harm you?”

“If you hadn't chased me, would my horse have gone crazy?

“Who asked you to have such bad riding skills? I caught up to you immediately! ”

“Who did you say is bad at riding?” “Whoever agrees is the one!”

The two of them fought again.

One was the emperor's daughter, and the other had the support of the Empress Dowager. Neither was afraid of the other.

Xiao Zhonghua had a headache.

“Where's Princess Jingning?” he asked the eunuch from the horse farm.

The eunuch said, “We went to Kunning Palace to ask. Princess Jingning seems to feel unwell and is resting in the bedroom.”

Xiao Zhonghua said, “I'll go see her.”

After such a big thing happened, the horses were frightened and no one dared to let the princess and the daughters ride it anymore. The riding and archery class was temporarily changed to Teacher Jiang's class.

When Master Jiang passed by with a poem, Su Xiaoxiao was walking out with
something.

“Class is about to start. Where are you going?” Master Jiang asked. Su Xiaoxiao said, “I'm going out for a while. I'll be back soon.”

Master Jiang frowned.

Su Xiaoxiao left Qilin Hall.

JingYi was still there.

“Have you been waiting for a long time?” Su Xiaoxiao walked forward.

Jing Yi shook his head. “No. Are you done with your class so soon?”

Su Xiaoxiao was stunned. “Do you think I asked you to wait here until my class is over?”

Jing Yi nodded.

What kind of naturally silly little boy was this?

It was not that the occasion was wrong. Su Xiaoxiao really wanted to hit his head.

Su Xiaoxiao handed him the ointment in her arms. “I'm going to class. Apply it yourself. Thank you for today.” Jing Yi took the medicine.

“Cousin didn't instruct me.”

He suddenly spoke.

“Huh?” Su Xiaoxiao was stunned for a moment before realizing what he was referring to. She smiled. “I know.”

In the classroom, Teacher Jiang first sent out a calligraphy piece for everyone to practice. He was called out by another teacher, probably to discuss tomorrow's lesson.

Qin Yanran sat in the second row.

Seeing that the teacher had gone out, the daughters surrounded Qin Yanran.

Miss Lin asked, “Miss Qin, did you hear what the Third Prince said to that little fatty just now?”

When Xiao Zhonghua came to the racecourse, everyone bowed to him. Qin Yanran was at the front, closest to Xiao Zhonghua.

As Qin Yanran studied the ink, she lowered her eyes and said, “I didn't hear it.”

Miss Lin was disappointed. “You didn't hear it even though you were so close? I saw Third Prince talking to her. Do you know her?”

Qin Yanran's eyes moved.

Another daughter said, “She's a country bumpkin. How can she know the Third Prince?”

Miss Lin thought that it made sense and stopped dwelling on this topic. She went to practice her calligraphy in peace. Qin Yanran couldn't calm down for a long time.

She had heard it just now.

Su Daya had long known the Third Prince and Young Marquis Jing in Qingzhou.

She also treated the Third Prince's illness and Young Marquis Jing's injuries.

The Third Prince's words were filled with protection for her.

Qin Yanran was standing in front of the Third Prince, but the Third Prince did not seem to see her.

Qin Yanran clenched the ink block in her hand.

“Miss Qin, Miss Qin, Miss Qin!”

Miss Lin tugged at her sleeve.

Qin Yanran came back to her senses and realized that her ink had spilled all over the table, staining the calligraphy she had just practiced.

Princess Hui An was injured and would not attend class in the afternoon.

She returned to Qi Xiang Palace.

Seeing her beautiful daughter's forehead turn green from the fall, Consort Xian couldn't help but ask, “What happened? You… Don't tell me you fought with Jingning again?

When the two princesses were young, they fought whenever there was a disagreement. When they grew up, they restrained themselves a lot and only quibbled when they met.

“It wasn't Jingning…” Princess Hui An told her about Princess Lingxi chasing her on a horse.

Consort Xian really had a headache.

What kind of troublesome daughter did she give birth to?

She was either fighting with Jingning or Guo Lingxi. Princess Hui An snorted. 'Why are you blaming me? She chased me!” Consort Xian said, “Wouldn't it be fine if you ignored her?”

Princess Hui An said righteously, “I'm a princess. How can I lose to her?”

Consort Xian mocked, “Heh, why didn't you think that you couldn't lose to her when you read the four books and five scriptures?”

Princess Hui An choked. “…Who's your daughter? Why do you always speak up for others?”

Consort Xian pressed her temples. 'Guo Lingxi is a popular person in front of the Empress Dowager. Don't provoke her! ”

Princess Hui An was unhappy. “I can't provoke Jingning, nor can I provoke a small princess. What's the point of me being a princess? Why don't I stop being a princess!”

“Stop being a?”

A smiling man's voice came from the door.

Consort Xian's heart trembled as she hurriedly bowed. “Your Majesty!”

“Father!” When Princess Hui An saw Emperor Jing Xuan, who doted on her the most, endless grievances surged in her heart.

Her eyes turned red as she threw herself into Emperor Jing Xuan's arms and sobbed. “They all bullied me…”

Other princesses did not dare to be so unruly in front of Emperor Jing Xuan, but it was Hui An's straightforwardness that made Emperor Jing Xuan feel that he was first a father in front of her and then the king of a country.

Emperor Jing Xuan looked at his daughter in his arms and asked, “Who bullied my Hui An?”

Princess Hui An complained bluntly, “Guo Lingxi! Third Brother! Jing Yi!”

Consort Xian's temples twitched.

Unfilial daughter!

Why were her biological brother and cousin involved?!

“How did they bully you?” Emperor Jing Xuan asked in amusement.

Princess Hui An said with tears in her eyes, “Guo Lingxi chased me on a horse and made my horse go crazy. Third Brother and Jing Yi came and didn't save me. They ran to save an outsider… In the end, I fell…”

Consort Xian was furious.

So there was a second half of this story?

Why didn't she finish it all at once just now?

After letting her say her piece, Consort Xian would lock Princess Hui An up! Is it your turn to defame your biological brother in front of your father?! Emperor Jing Xuan asked, “Did you fall badly? Let me take a look.”

“It's serious! It hurts!” Princess Hui An took away the hand that was covering her forehead. The more she thought about it, the more aggrieved she felt. “I hate Third Brother! I hate him to death! Father, don't like him either! He's a hypocrite! For the sake of his good reputation, he doesn't even care about his own sister!”

Consort Xian was about to vomit blood..

To hell with the Wei family!

To hell with the Leng family!

The biggest obstacle on her son's path to the throne was this wretched girl!

Chapter 316

Emperor Jing Xuan did not know whether to laugh or cry. “Why do I remember that your third brother dotes on you the most?”

Princess Hui An snorted. “If he dotes on me, why would he let Jing Yi save an outsider? Those two guards are not good at fighting. They made me fall!”

Emperor Jing Xuan pinched her cheek. “Tell me, which outsider is your third brother biased toward?”

Princess Hui An said angrily, “Isn't it that Miss Qin from the countryside? She hasn't changed her name. What's her name again?”

Eunuch Fu glanced at Emperor Jing Xuan and saw that he seemed to be recalling his name. He said to Princess Hui An, “Su Daya.”

Princess Hui An hurriedly said, “Yes! It's her! This name is so old-fashioned!” Emperor Jing Xuan looked thoughtful and did not say anything else.

At five o'clock, the day's class ended. The daughters left the Qilin Hall one after another.

Su Xiaoxiao packed her things leisurely.

Everyone in the classroom had left, but she was still packing her books.

Suddenly, a tall figure enveloped her.

“Jing Yi…”

She looked up and was halfway through speaking when she said, “Your Highness.”

Ordinary people would not come this way. The first person she thought of was Jing Yi.

Xiao Zhonghua was not angry that he had been recognized. He smiled gently and said, “Are you used to coming to the capital?”

“Not bad,” Su Xiaoxiao said.

Xiao Zhonghua had once invited her to the capital as a friend, but she had rejected him. She did not expect to come after going around in circles.

Xiao Zhonghua said warmly, “I asked Father to give you the spot in the palace school.”

Su Xiaoxiao muttered quietly, “So you schemed against me behind my back!”

Xiao Zhonghua smiled. “Don't misunderstand. I'm not taking credit or planning to do anything to you. It's just that since you're in the capital, it won't do you any harm to interact more with the people of the big families.”

Su Xiaoxiao continued to pack.

Xiao Zhonghua continued, “As for us…

“Your Highness.” Su Xiaoxiao interrupted him. “There's no us.”

After leaving the palace, Su Xiaoxiao saw Su Mo's carriage.

“You didn't wait for a day again, did you?” She got into the carriage.

Su MO said, “I went to do something during the day and only came over when you finished school.”

Su Xiaoxiao nodded in satisfaction.

Su MO looked at her in amusement. “What kind of little adult expression is

Su Xiaoxiao said to herself, “Little adult? I'm an adult!”

Su MO was 22 this year, only a year older than Wei Ting. One had to know that in her previous life, she had lived until she was in her thirties— Wait.

Wei Ting was 21.

Was she an old cow eating young grass in a May-December relationship?

That wasn't right.

She had yet to eat it.

Su Xiaoxiao frowned bitterly.

Su MO was amused by her changing expression. “What are you thinking about again?”

“Nothing.” Su Xiaoxiao dusted her wide sleeves and muttered calmly, “I'll eat it sooner or later!”

Su MO was speechless.

What was this girl talking about?

Su MO pushed a jar of walnuts in front of her. “It's your first day of school. Are you used to it?”

Su Xiaoxiao grabbed a handful of walnuts. “Oh, yes.”

Su MO continued, “I heard from Eunuch Sun that your horse was frightened.”

Su Xiaoxiao glanced at him. “It's not easy to earn your money.”

Eunuch Sun had to go all the way out of the palace to report her situation to him.

Su MO couldn't help but laugh. “If you don't like it, I won't let him report it next time.”

Su Xiaoxiao nibbled on a walnut. “It's not that I don't like it. Do as you please.”

Su MO laughed and poured her a cup of tea.

“I found out something and was wondering if I should tell you.”

Su Xiaoxiao asked, “Is it related to Wei Ting?” This girl… was really terrifyingly smart…

Fortunately, she was his sister, not an enemy.

“Yes,” Su MO said. “One is a clue about my grandfather's poisoning, and the other is the background of the three children.”

Su Xiaoxiao stopped drinking her tea and widened her clear eyes at him without blinking.

Su MO asked for her opinion. “Let's talk about my grandfather first?”

Su Xiaoxiao nodded.

Su MO continued, “I've been investigating for so long, and all the clues point to the Wei family. I've mentioned the entanglement between the Qin, Su, and Wei families to you, but I don't think I told you what happened between them. Back then, Old General Wei, Lord Wu An, was surrounded by the Beiyan army and sent people to the Qin family's military camp a hundred miles away to ask Granduncle to send troops for support. Granduncle didn't go.”

Su Xiaoxiao asked in confusion, “Why not?”

Su MO shook his head. “I'm not sure either. Granduncle refused to say much about what happened back then… Granduncle might know. Now, do you understand how deep the hatred is between the Wei family, the Qin family, and the Su family?”

He would persuade his sister to give up on Wei Ting every day.

Su Xiaoxiao didn't answer his question. She would always have her own logic and wouldn't be affected by the thoughts of others.

She touched her chin and said thoughtfully, “The two families are political enemies. Did Qin Canglan want to use Beiyan to get rid of Lord Wu An? This doesn't make sense. Lord Wu An Lord died in battle a few years ago, and the current emperor has been on the throne for 17 years. The emperor has already stabilized the throne. They are loyal to a monarch. Why is this? Or… is this the emperor's intention? The emperor is afraid of the Wei family and wants them to decline?”

Not only was this girl smart, but she was also bold. She dared to guess everything.

Su MO said, “I'm afraid I can only ask Granduncle himself about the exact situation. It's useless for me to ask. He won't tell me. You can try.” Su Xiaoxiao thought for a moment and felt that it was feasible.

“What about the second piece of information you found?” she asked.

She didn't indulge in useless things for too long and always maintained a terrifying calmness.

The more Su MO interacted with her, the more he realized that she really had the potential of an outstanding soldier.

Unfortunately… she was a woman.

He gathered his thoughts and said to Su Xiaoxiao, “The second news is about the background of Dahu, Erhu, and Xiaohu.'

Su Xiaoxiao put down the walnut in her hand.

Su MO said seriously, “They're not Wei Ting's sons.”

Su Xiaoxiao paused. “They are not Wei Ting's… He never had a child with another woman.”

Su MO was speechless. He suddenly regretted telling her this.

Su Xiaoxiao asked, “Then whose sons are they?”

“I suspect…” Su MO said..

Chapter 317

At the Wei family, Wei Ting was grounded in the courtyard by Emperor Jing Xuan and Matriarch Wei.

He leaned lazily on the couch with a book covering his face, looking lifeless.

Eunuch Yu was carried to the next room to recuperate. The man in white and the bamboo hat guarded the door. This time, he was really not given any chance to leave.

“It's over, it's over, you're finished!”

Yuchi Xiu rushed into the courtyard.

The white-robed man blocked him with his sword.

Yuchi Xiu glanced at him and said, “Are you not letting me in? Or do you think I can abduct him under your nose? Are you admitting that you're lousy?”

The man in white retracted his hand.

Yuchi Xiu strode in and came to the simple bed. He stared straight at the book on Wei Ting's face and said, “Lord, you're finished!”

“What's finished?” Wei Ting asked casually. Yuchi Xiu said, “You've been cuckolded!”

Wei Ting ignored him.

Yuchi Xiu said righteously, “That girl met Xiao Zhonghua! They recognized each other! One knew that she was his fiancée and the other knew that he was her fiancé, but they were still showing off their love in public! Xiao Zhonghua even picked her up from school! You're finished! Xiao Zhonghua poached from you!”

Wei Ting took away the book covering his face and sat up. His eyes were cold.

He came to the door with a cold expression.

The man in white stopped him. “The Matriarch has ordered that we can't let Young Master out.”

Yuchi Xiu came to his side and whispered to him, “His wife ran away with someone.”

The white-robed man looked at Wei Ting sympathetically and let him pass.

When Su Xiaoxiao returned from the palace, she first picked up the three little ones and the foal from Ling Yun and made dinner.

Su Qi and Su Yu sent Su Ergou home and especially emphasized that they wanted snacks tomorrow, as much as Su Ergou!

“Oh.” Su Xiaoxiao tilted her head and asked, “Do you… want to stay for a meal?”

Su Yu said, “We're not used to eating outside..

An hour later.

Su Yu hugged the tree in the courtyard with both hands as his legs were forcefully pulled out by his coachman.

“I'm not leaving—

He hadn't eaten enough!

The three little ones exhausted all their energy at Ling Yun's place. When they reached home, they were extremely obedient. After taking a shower, they fell asleep.

Su Xiaoxiao went to Su Ergou's room.

Su Ergou was practicing calligraphy on the table. His posture was a little clumsy, but his expression was very serious.

Su Xiaoxiao placed the oil lamp on the table.

Su Ergou's eyes lit up. He looked up. “Sister? Why are you here?”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “I saw that you were practicing calligraphy, so I brought you a lamp. Our family doesn't lack money anymore, so there's no need to save on lamp oil.”

Su Ergou said, “I can see.”

“Ergou, do you like to study?”

“I like it!”

Studying allowed him to do business. Su Ergou cherished it very much, anc was more serious about his homework than in the countryside.

As for whether he did well or not… Anyway, the teacher never scolded him.

It would be strange if the teacher dared to scold him. Wasn't he afraid that

Canglan and the Old Marquis would chop him up?

“Sister, I miss Dad a little.”

“Tomorrow after school, we'll go see Dad.”

Coincidentally, she also had something to verify with Qin Canglan.

In the dead of night, the family rested. Su Xiaoxiao arranged the three litth fellows who were sleeping soundly and covered herself with the blanket be falling asleep.

In her half-asleep state, she vaguely felt two sharp eyes staring at her.

She suddenly opened her eyes.

She saw a tall figure sitting on the edge of the bed with his arms crossed. E stared at her sinisterly for an unknown period of time. Su Xiaoxiao instinctively reached under the mattress.

“Heh, did you want your dagger again?”

A certain someone kicked the dagger on the ground under the bed.

Su Xiaoxiao was completely awake. She sat up and looked at him strangely. “Why do you always come in the middle of the night?”

Wei Ting chuckled. “You make it sound like you were here during the day.”

Su Xiaoxiao raised her eyebrows. “Oh, so were you here for me?”

Wei Ting refused to answer this question.

He kept his arms crossed and glared at her warily, coldly, and angrily.

Su Xiaoxiao was confused. What was wrong with this guy?

Wei Ting asked coldly, “I heard that you're going to marry Xiao Zhonghua?”

Su Xiaoxiao asked strangely, “Who said that?”

Why didn't she know that she was going to marry Xiao Zhonghua?

Wei Ting said without hesitation, “Yuchi Xiu.” Su Xiaoxiao was dumbfounded. “Who's Yuchi Xiu?”

Wei Ting thought for a moment. “Blackie.”

Su Xiaoxiao was enlightened.

After being sold by Su Xiaoxiao once, Yuchi Xiu was sold by his master again.

It could be said to be especially miserable.

Su Xiaoxiao asked, “Where did he hear that I'm going to marry Xiao Zhonghua?”

Wei Ting said coldly, “You saw Xiao Zhonghua in the palace today.”

Su Xiaoxiao continued, “Does seeing him mean that I'm going to marry him?”

Wei Ting snorted coldly. “It's best if you're not. Don't forget that you're a married woman now!”

Su Xiaoxiao chuckled. “It's not true.”

Wei Ting's eyes darkened, his gaze dangerous. “Say it again!”

“Which part of us looks like a real couple?”

“In what way?”

“Do you know what couples do when they're together?”

Wei Ting recalled what the two of them had done together and felt that there were many things to speak of.

However, the little girl did not seem satisfied.

He was silent for a moment before looking at Su Xiaoxiao in a complicated manner. He said earnestly, “If you mean that kind of thing, I can't give it to you now.”

“You can't?”

“Su Daya!”

“Why are you so fierce? I'm a physician. If you're sick, I have medicine that can treat you!”

Wei Ting wanted to strangle her!

“Let me take a look at you.” Su Xiaoxiao reached out to take his pulse.

Wei Ting misunderstood and thought that this girl was going to take off his pants again. After all, this was not the first time.

He clasped her wrists with both hands.

“Stop fooling around!” Su Xiaoxiao frowned.

She was serious.

Why was the patient so disobedient?

One wanted to grab, and the other struggled. Su Xiaoxiao lost her balance and fell back.

Wei Ting was pulled by her and pressed onto the bed.

To be precise, he fell on her warm body.

Su Xiaoxiao was about to say something when she was suddenly stunned.

Wei Ting's body froze.

The night was as dark as ink.

It covered his red ears.

He let go of Su Xiaoxiao and sat up straight like he had been electrocuted.

He pulled the blanket over his waist.

The most terrifying thing was that the air suddenly froze.

Su Xiaoxiao looked at him meaningfully and glanced at the place he covered. “Well… I was just saying. You don't have to prove it to me.”

Wei Ting could not clear his name.

He was here to pick a fight with her, but he was the one who embarrassed himself first.

He could not tell for a moment if it was more tragic that she had misunderstood that he could not do it, or the situation before him..

Chapter 318

Su Xiaoxiao said calmly, “Alright, you're normal. I won't examine you anymore.”

Wei Ting was speechless. Could she stop talking?

However, Su Xiaoxiao abided by the principle that if he was embarrassed, she would not be embarrassed. She sat up and blinked at him. “Wei Ting, you like me a little, right? Are you jealous of Xiao Zhonghua?”

Wei Ting had already regained his composure and said coldly, “You're thinking too much. I just hope you remember your identity! Your Su family provoked me first. I have the final say when we terminate our relationship!”

Su Xiaoxiao: “Oh.”

She lay down calmly.

Wei Ting stood up and left.

He had already gone out and strode back.

He stood in front of the bed like a god in the night and looked at her unfathomably. “Close your eyes!”

Su Xiaoxiao curled her lips and closed her eyes to sleep.

Wei Ting bent down and held her cheek with one hand, kissing her forehead.

Su Xiaoxiao opened her eyes.

Wei Ting explained coldly, “What a husband and wife should do.”

Su Xiaoxiao burst out laughing. “Wei Ting, I also do this with Dahu, Erhu, and

Xiaohu. If you really want to kiss…”

Wei Ting said coldly, “Don't push your luck!”

“Oh.” Su Xiaoxiao raised her eyebrows and turned around to face the three children inside.

“Next time.”

With that, Wei Ting left with a cold expression. Su Xiaoxiao touched her kissed forehead and soft lips. “Can I… kiss you here next time?”

“Then next time… should we go straight to third base?”

“Mother.”

Xiaohu sat up in a daze.

“What's wrong?” Su Xiaoxiao asked the little fellow.

“Pee,” Xiaohu said.

Su Xiaoxiao carried Xiaohu to the backyard to pee.

“Mother, are you smiling?” Xiaohu asked while nestled in Su Xiaoxiao's arms.

“Thinking about big pig trotters… delicious.”

“Xiaohu wants to eat too.”

That night, Xiaohu hugged Dahu's feet and ate pig trotters for the entire night.

In Kunning Palace, Princess Jingning slept until the next morning. When she woke up, she was stunned by the scene in front of her.

What happened?

Why were there so many people in her bedroom?

And they were all kneeling on the ground…

Taozhi, the personal palace maid, had been paying attention to Princess Jingning's movements. Seeing that she was awake, she cried tears of joy. “Princess, you're finally awake!”

Princess Jing Ning looked at the room full of palace maids and eunuchs in confusion. “What's going on?”

Taozhi went forward on her knees and only stood up when she reached the bed. She helped Princess Jingning sit up. “Princess, you were unconscious for so long. You scared me to death!” “I was… unconscious?”

Princess Jing Ning was surprised.

She didn't feel like she was unconscious. Didn't she just sleep?

“What time is it?” she asked.

“Seven o'clock,” Taozhi said in a choked voice.

Princess Jing Ning was shocked. “It's morning?”

She clearly remembered that it was her lunch break…

Taozhi sobbed and said, “You've been unconscious for a day and a night. No matter how hard I called you, you couldn't wake up. The Empress called the imperial physician over and he performed acupuncture on you, but you were still unconscious…”

“Ahem!”

Jingning, who refused to admit that she was sleeping like a pig, cleared her throat and said with a serious expression, “I'm awake now. It's fine. Get up.” Everyone stood up with relief.

Taozhi said, “I went to report to the Empress that you are safe. The Empress was worried for the entire night… In addition… Third Prince and His Majesty also came.”

Fifteen minutes later, Aunt Mei came over with an imperial physician behind her.

The imperial physician took Princess Jingning's pulse. “Her Highness is fine.”

Aunt Mei asked the palace servants to send the imperial physician out.

Princess Jing Ning said, “Open the windows. It's too dark.”

The palace maid removed the screen and opened the window.

Taozhi brought hot water over and Aunt Mei personally twisted a handkerchief to wipe Princess Jingning's face.

Before the handkerchief could touch her face, Aunt Mei exclaimed in surprise.

“Your Highness, your face…”

“What's wrong with my face?” Princess Jing Ning's heart tightened. Could it be getting worse? “Taozhi! Bring me a mirror!”

She instructed.

Taozhi brought over a small peachwood mirror.

Princess Jing Ning looked in the mirror and exclaimed, “My face…'

Yesterday, her face was filled with acne, and a few of them had even gotten worse. Today, imost of them had actually disappeared.

This face was not scary at all.

“Did you apply Imperial Physician Hu's medication?” Aunt Mei asked. Taozhi nodded repeatedly. “Yes, Aunt Mei!”

Aunt Mei smiled knowingly. “Imperial Physician Hut s medical skills never disappoint.”

Princess Jingning said, “It was not Imperial Physician Hu..”

Chapter 319

She remembered very clearly that after applying Imperial Physician Hu's medication, her skin only cooled for a while before it hurt and itched again.

However, after taking the medicine given to her by her classmate, she felt much more comfortable.

It was also because it was too comfortable that she slept well.

Thinking of Su Xiaoxiao's medicine, Princess Jingning recalled the snacks Su Xiaoxiao had given her.

She looked at the missing snack box on the table and asked, “Where are my snacks?”

Taozhi said, “Are you talking about the box on the original table? His Majesty ate it.”

Emperor Jing Xuan was originally here to visit Jingning. As he sat, he saw the snacks sent by Kunning Palace last time. Then, he accidentally finished them all.

Not a single one was left for Jingning.

Princess Jing Ning's face darkened.

At Pear Blossom Lane, Su Xiaoxiao got up too.

She recalled what had happened last night and was in a good mood.

However, looking at the three little ones sleeping soundly at the side, she slapped her forehead.

“I let this guy flirt with me. I forgot to ask him if the three children are really his brother's flesh and blood. Indeed, beauty is a hindrance.”

After Su MO said his guess yesterday, she asked Su MO not to tell Qin Canglan and the Old Marquis for the time being.

Su MO agreed.

However, it would only be for three days because three days later, the spy would definitely report to the Old Marquis.

“I should be able to see Wei Ting in three days, right?”

Su Xiaoxiao went to wake Su Ergou up. After the siblings finished making snacks, the three little ones were almost awake.

Breakfast was mutton buns and mixed grain porridge.

The mutton was fat and thin. The gamey smell was removed with spices. Accompanied by a mutton soup, the meat was fragrant, oily, salty, and fresh, with a hint of sweetness.

The sweet potato was cut into pieces in the mixed grain porridge. The sweetness of the sweet potato was completely infused into the porridge. The porridge was thick, sweet, and soft. Just as the food came out of the pot, someone came to freeload.

Su Qi and Su Yu revealed their white teeth. They were just short of carrying an alms bowl to solicit alms.

The three little ones only finished brushing their teeth before the family came to the table for dinner.

Su Qi and Su Yu did not expect their little cousin to make good snacks. The food was cooked well, and even the buns were more fragrant than those that were made by the chefs in the residence.

Unlike the old bread they used to eat, the dough was soft when they took a bite.

Extremely fresh soup burst out, and there was no gamey stench at all.

This was mutton.

They have never cared for mutton!

The two brothers buried their heads in their buns and couldn't stop eating.

After Su Ergou finished eating a bun, he reached out and touched nothing.

He looked up in a daze at the empty steamer.

Uh… where were the buns?

Su Qi and Su Yu were not satisfied.

If not for the fact that the three little ones' buns were uniquely shaped like pigs, and they were too embarrassed to snatch them, the plates of the three little ones might have been empty.

The Directorate had morning classes, so Su Ergou and the other two set off after dinner.

The three little ones finished eating slowly. Su Xiaoxiao took off their clothes, washed their hands, and rinsed their mouths before sending them to Ling Yun's place.

Although Princess Jing Ning was fine, her “sleeping” for a day and night was really worrying. The empress sent someone to the palace to apply for a day off.

Today was Teacher Jiang's class again.

Master Jiang had long treated Su Xiaoxiao as rotten wood and did not attempt to sculpt her.

Therefore, Su Xiaoxiao's day was quite calm.

After school, Su MO picked her up.

Su Xiaoxiao got into the carriage. “I want to visit my father with Ergou.”

Su MO did not object. “Okay.”

In the evening, Su Mo's carriage arrived at the Qin family's horse farm.

Although it was called a horse farm, it was not only a place to raise and train horses. It had a training ground with an armory and archery targets. It could be said to be an excellent place to practice martial arts.

Su Cheng had just finished drawing the bow when he seemed to have lost control of his arms. Just as he was feeling depressed, Su Ergou ran over.

“Dad!”

Su Cheng turned around and his eyes lit up.

“Daughter!”

He whistled past Su Ergou.

Su Ergou, who had been treated as air, was speechless.

Su Cheng grabbed Su Xiaoxiao's arm and felt extremely aggrieved. “Daughter…

you're finally here to see Dad… Dad misses you so much… those two old fellows trapped me here and forced me to practice martial arts every day, not letting me go back… I can't beat them…'

At the mention of this, he was angry.

It was fine if he could not defeat that big guy. That person in the wheelchair looked easy to bully, but in the end, he knocked him down with one move.

He rolled up his sleeves. “Daughter, look.”

Su Xiaoxiao pinched his wrist. “Dad, you're stronger.”

Su Cheng was speechless. “…I wanted you to see my injuries.”

Su Cheng had been trained by Qin Canglan and the Old Marquis for a few days. He was tanned, and his skin was a light wheat color. However, as Su Xiaoxiao had said, he had become stronger and more energetic..

Chapter 320

Su Xiaoxiao carefully checked his right hand.

There was indeed a bruise on his wrist. It was caused by the Old Marquis.

The Old Marquis's heart ached to death, but he did not dare to show it on his face. He continued to scold him fiercely.

Other than the bruise, there was no discomfort in his wrist.

“Doesn't such high-intensity training hurt anymore?” Su Xiaoxiao asked.

“It doesn't hurt anymore,” Su Cheng said.

He was just showing off the bruises to his daughter. He didn't really mean to worry her.

Su Cheng looked toward the grassland. “Eh? Where's my son-in-law, Dahu,

Erhu, and Xiaohu? They didn't come with you?”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “No, Wei Ting brought them to class.”

Su Xiaoxiao had originally planned to bring the three little fellows over. Just as she arrived at the entrance of the Lingyun family, she bumped into Yuchi Xiu.

Old Madam Wei missed the little fellows. Yuchi Xiu came to bring the three children over for Old Madam Wei to take a look.

Su Xiaoxiao naturally had no objections.

However, if she were to say that they were brought back to Wei Ting's house, Father Su would definitely ask if his son-in-law had a family and wanted to meet them.

Now that the two families were incompatible, it was better not to let her father go to the Wei family to die.

“I'll bring them over next time.” Su Xiaoxiao changed the topic. “Dad, have you finished the medicine from before?”

Su Cheng said, “I just finished eating before coming to the racecourse.”

Su Xiaoxiao took out a small medicine bottle from the small basket. “I have another bottle here. Remember to take it.”

Su Cheng waved his hand. “It doesn't hurt anymore. This medicine is expensive.

Keep it.”

Su Xiaoxiao insisted, “It's for Dad.'

She felt that not only did the black technology bone-strengthening pills in the pharmacy have healing effects, but they could also strengthen one's physique to a large extent. It must have something to do with her father being able to withstand such urgent and high-intensity training.

Su Cheng couldn't dissuade his daughter and accepted the medicine.

“Xiaochuan.”

He waved.

A servant jogged forward.

Su Cheng hesitated. “Forget it, I'll hold it myself.”

He had to hold the medicine his daughter had given him.

Su Cheng realized that his daughter had lost weight again, and his son had grown taller.

He asked about his son-in-law and three grandchildren and was slightly relieved to know that everyone was fine.

“Ergou, talk to Dad first. I'll go out for a while.”

She was going to look for Qin Canglan, who was brushing the horses on the lawn. Although he was an old Protector Duke, there were some things he liked to do himself.

He was very happy to see Su Xiaoxiao. However, when Su Xiaoxiao explained her intentions, his smile faded bit by bit.

“Why are you suddenly asking this?”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “It's not sudden. I've wanted to ask for a long time, but I haven't had the chance.”

Qin Canglan asked curiously, “What bewitching soup did the Wei family kid give you?”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “It has nothing to do with him. I want to know it myself. If it's inconvenient for you to say it, pretend I never came.” How could he pretend that she had never been here?

The little girl turned around and left, looking very much like what Su Huayin used to do in the past.

Su Huayin always used this trick. It worked every time.

He knew, but he was willing to jump in.

“Stop right there! “
He was helpless against Hua Yin and this little girl.

He asked, “How much have you heard about what happened back then?”

Su Xiaoxiao turned around and looked at him again. “Not much. It's just that Lord Wu An was surrounded by the Beiyan army and sent someone out in disguise to ask you for reinforcements, but you rejected him.”

Qin Canglan nodded. “That's right. That's true.”

Su Xiaoxiao was a little surprised. “Why did you refuse to send troops?”

“Why?” Qin Canglan stopped brushing his horse and smiled coldly. “Wei's rebellion. He's in cahoots with Beiyan and was using a ruse. If I go, I'll be walking into a trap!”

Su Xiaoxiao frowned. “Really?”

Qin Canglan said seriously, “You're my biological granddaughter. Why would I lie to you? Although I hate Wei Ting, I wouldn't use this method to discredit a dead person.”

Su Xiaoxiao: “Oh.”

Qin Canglan asked, “You don't believe me?”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “I'm not familiar with you.”

Qin Canglan was hurt.

Su Xiaoxiao continued, “Since Lord Wu An colluded with Beiyan, why was he killed by Beiyan in the end?”

Qin Canglan snorted coldly. “He wanted to kill me, so I naturally couldn't sit back and wait for death. I attacked the Beiyan army from behind and released the news that I wanted to cooperate with him from the inside. I wanted to make Beiyan think that he was faking his defection to the enemy, but he actually wanted to destroy Beiyan with me.”

Su Xiaoxiao pondered and said, “So Beiyan killed Lord Wu An in a fit of anger?”

She had once suspected that Emperor Jing Xuan could not bear to see the Wei family live well, but from the truth revealed by Qin Canglan, Emperor Jing Xuan had nothing to do with the Wei family's tragedy.

She did not suspect that Qin Canglan was lying because there was no need.

Qin Canglan snorted. “If he hadn't colluded with Beiyan and was defenseless against Beiyan, why would he let Beiyan destroy his entire family so easily?” This was a disguised acknowledgment of the Lord Wu An's power.

In the world, the only person who could fight him to a draw was the deceased Lord Wu An.

Su Xiaoxiao corrected him. “Not the entire family. Wei Ting is still here.”

Qin Canglan said indifferently, “He'll be gone soon.”

Su Xiaoxiao asked, “You want to kill him?”

Qin Canglan said nothing.

Su Xiaoxiao turned around and left.

Again! Again! This girl was doing it again!

She had Su Huayin's bad temper!

“If I don't kill him, will no one kill him?” Qin Canglan's eyes darted around as he raised his hand and pointed. “The old monkey wants to kill him!”

The Old Marquis, who had just pushed the wheelchair over, trembled!

“Why are you pushing the blame on me?! Qin, I think you want to fight again!”

Chapter 321

Su Xiaoxiao looked at Qin Canglan and then at the Old Marquis in the wheelchair.

The Old Marquis felt a little uncomfortable under his granddaughter's gaze.

However, this wheelchair was not very obedient. Its wheels were stuck in the grass pit.

He stood up irritably and moved the wheelchair over.

Su Xiaoxiao was dumbfounded.

In the house, Su Cheng was showing off his weapon to his son.

“Here, this is the Cloud Shattering Saber. It's much more powerful than the Pig Slaughtering Saber. With this slash, it'll shatter all sorts of things!”

Su Cheng gestured.

Su Ergou's eyes lit up. “Dad, I want to play too.”

Su Cheng hurriedly said, “You can't play with it. You'll get injured.”

He picked up another spear. “A knife is inferior to a sword. A sword is inferior to a spear. Do you know where the power of a spear lies?”

Su Ergou shook his head.

“Dad.” Su Xiaoxiao walked in. “Someone wants to kill your son-in-law.” Su Cheng stabbed the spear into the ground and asked fiercely, “Who is it?!”

Su Xiaoxiao turned around and looked at Qin Canglan and the Old Marquis.

The two big shots looked at each other.

Each raised his head and pointed at the other party. “Him!”

Su Cheng's face darkened. “You want to kill my son-in-law?”

The two of them denied it in a second. “No, no. It's a misunderstanding. I didn't say that I wanted to kill him!”

They were not two big shots born from the same mother. They had never had such tacit understanding when fighting a war.

Qin Canglan muttered to himself, “It's too scary. In my son's eyes, I'm not even as good as a kidnapped son-in-law.”

Old Marquis remarked, “Uncle is inferior to son-in-law. Sigh.”

Su Xiaoxiao was satisfied.

Indeed, her father had to be involved.

Some things were easier said than done. From the standpoint of an observer, Su Xiaoxiao felt that things might not be so simple.

For example, why did Lord Wu An rebel?

If King Nanyang was still alive, it would barely make sense. However, seven years after Emperor Jing Xuan ascended the throne, King Nanyang was discovered conspiring to rebel. He was his biological brother. For the sake of the empress dowager, Emperor Jing Xuan did not announce King Nanyang's crimes to the world, but he secretly killed his entire family. To the public, he claimed that he was unfortunately infected with a plague.

Could it be that Lord Wu An wanted to avenge King Nanyang?

It seemed that she had to ask the Wei family about what happened back then.

“Grandpa!” “Grandpa, Grandpa!”

“Grandpa!”

Not far away, the soft voices of three children suddenly came. Su Cheng, who was standing at the door, mercilessly pulled the two big shots to the side. He threw the spear away and ran over to pick up the three children.

Xiaohu was sandwiched in the middle and stuck out his tongue. “I'm bursting! I'm bursting!”

Su Cheng put the three little fellows down and squatted down to touch their heads. “Did you miss Grandpa?” “Yes!” Dahu said obediently.

“Erhu misses you too!”

Xiaohu patted his chest seriously. “Xiaohu misses you the most!”

“Haha!”

Su Cheng was amused by the three little fellows.

He looked around. “Where's your father?”

Xiaohu complained, “Sleeping in. Uncle Blackie sent him over.”

Yuchi Xiu, who was outside the horse ranch: I'm just wearing black clothes, not Uncle Black!

Su Xiaoxiao was also surprised by the arrival of the three little fellows.

She thought that Matriarch Wei would let them stay at home for the night.

In fact, Matriarch Wei did try to keep them, but the three little fellows did not buy it.

In the beginning, they were still playing well. When it was dark, they started to look for Su Xiaoxiao. Wei Ting could not coax them.

Old Madam Wei had no choice but to get Yuchi Xiu and Fu Su to send them over.

It had been a long time since they last saw each other. The three little ones also missed Su Cheng very much. The three of them leaned into Su Cheng's arms and actually forgot to look for their mother for a short time. Xiaohu pushed Dahu. “Move aside. You're squeezing me.”

Dahu did not indulge him and pushed him out.

Dahu did not take the initiative to bully Xiaohu, but if Xiaohu wanted to bully him, there was no way.

In front of Dahu, Xiaohu's strength was like a younger brother.

However, although he could not win, he kept squeezing in.

The two little fellows began to fight again.

“Okay, okay, okay. Grandpa will hug you all!”

Su Cheng stopped the two of them from fighting in time.

Su Cheng looked at Xiaohu and sighed helplessly. “Why do you keep squeezing when you can't win?”

Xiaohu placed his hands on his hips and stomped his feet. “When I grow up, I can win!”

Erhu said, “When you grow up, so would Dahu. You still can't beat him.”

Dahu nodded.

Xiaohu was furious. He stretched out his small arm and drew a big circle. “I, I, I'm bigger than him!”

A child's temper came and went quickly. The two of them, who were fighting a second ago, squatted together to catch crickets in the next second.

“Dahu, I can't catch him,” Xiaohu said gloomily.

“Here you go.” Dahu caught a big one for his brother.

“I want one too,” Erhu said.

Dahu began to catch crickets for his brothers.

Su Cheng missed his daughter's food. The chef had just killed two sheep.

Su Xiaoxiao decided to roast a whole sheep.

The cook of the ranch helped Su Xiaoxiao set up a bonfire on the grassland.

“Do you have sesame?” Su Xiaoxiao asked.

“Yes, yes!” The chef entered the kitchen and brought over a large jar of stir-fried white sesame.

“It's still lacking.” Su Xiaoxiao asked the chef to watch the fire first. She went into the kitchen to stir-fry a sauce and make mixed sauce noodles later.

The smell of roasted whole sheep and green onion oil mixed with sauce filled the entire horse farm.

The three little fellows surrounded the bonfire and drooled as they stared at the roasted whole sheep.

Su Ergou stared at them, afraid that if they were not careful, the three of them would rush forward and eat the uncooked sheep.

Su MO stayed for dinner.

It was quite lively by the bonfire.

Qin Canglan sat alone on the grass field with the moonlight on his back. His tall body was enveloped by the night, and he looked a little lonely.

Dahu walked over and tilted his head to look at him. “Big Grandpa, what's wrong?”

Qin Canglan said nothing.

“Big Great- Grandpa, are you unhappy?” Dahu continued to ask.

A complicated look flashed across Qin Canglan's eyes, but he still ignored Dahu.

Dahu thought for a moment and took out a big cricket from his left pocket. “Do you want the big cricket I just caught?”

Seeing that Qin Canglan was unmoved, he took out another piece of crisp candy from his right pocket.

Qin Canglan still did not reach out.

Dahu asked him to play again, but he did not move.

Dahu left dejectedly.

Qin Canglan turned around and looked at the little fellow's lonely back, wondering if he had gone too far.

He was just a child…

But he was a child of the Wei family…

Qin Canglan turned his head.

Suddenly, footsteps came again.

A small hand handed him a small milk bottle. “For you to drink.”

This was Dahu's favorite. He had never even given it to his master.

What Qin Canglan did not tell Su Xiaoxiao was that his most capable subordinate, his brother who had risked his life with him, had died at the hands of Lord Wu An and the Nanyang King.

Dahu was still young and did not know much about the grudges of adults, but he felt the huge sadness of Qin Canglan.

He placed the milk bottle on the ground and imitated his mother. He reached out and touched Qin Canlan's cheek. “Big great-grandpa, don't be sad..”

Chapter 322

Dahu left.

Qin Canglan was sitting a little far from the small courtyard.

In the night, one could vaguely see dancing flames. Su Ergou and Erhu were playing and laughing.

Dahu fell.

The little milk bottle was thrown out. It hurt.

He got up and blew on his knees himself.

He limped over and picked up the small milk bottle.

“It doesn't hurt.”

He shook his head.

Wiping his tears, he continued walking.

Suddenly, a broad palm lifted him up and carried him into a strong embrace.

Dahu stared blankly at the other party's cold and blurry outline in the night and asked, “Big Great-Grandpa, aren't you sad anymore?”

The night wind on the grassland was very cold, and Dahu's body was a little cold.

Qin Canglan unbuttoned his cloak and wrapped it tightly around the little fellow.

“Great-grandpa has been sad about too many things in his life.”

“Why are you sad? Dahu will be sad if he misses Mother.”

After saying that, Dahu recalled carefully. “It's sad to be locked up. It's also sad to be hungry.”

Those painful memories had gradually blurred in his mind. Dahu could only occasionally recall incomplete scenes.

Qin Canglan was a little stunned.

Had the little guy been locked up before? And starved?

“Who locked you up?” His eyes darkened.

It better not be Wei Ting. Otherwise, he would definitely beat that kid to death!

Dahu scratched his head. He couldn't remember.

Qin Canglan looked at the helpless little fellow. For some reason, he thought of Su Cheng.

He took Dahu's hand off his head. “It's all in the past. Don't think about it anymore. Great-grandpa promises you that no one will lock you up in the future.'

“Yes!” Dahu nodded. “Big Great-Grandpa, will you still be sad in the future?”

Qin Canglan carried him towards the bonfire.

He was in darkness, but facing the light.

“Yes, but it's fine if Great-Grandpa is sad. Great-Grandpa only hopes that the person he protects won't be sad again.”

Dahu seemed to understand.

Qin Canglan looked at him and said, “Does Dahu like Mother?”

Dahu nodded heavily. “I like her!”

Qin Canglan continued, “Will Dahu always protect Mother? If he doesn't let

Mother be bullied, your father can't bully her either.”

“Yes!” Dahu clenched his fists solemnly. “Dahu will protect Mother! No one is allowed to bully her! No one!” Qin Canglan smiled. “You have to keep your word.”

Dahu nodded repeatedly!

Qin Canglan looked at the vast and ethereal starry sky above him.

The Imperial Inspector said that if the general star was displaced, a general would definitely die.

Perhaps he would be able to find Hua Yin soon.

Before that, what else could he do for the children? “Dahu, do you want to practice martial arts?”

“What's martial arts?” “Learning kung fu.”

“Can I protect Mother after learning martial arts?”

“Then you have to learn like me, or at least like your father.” “Who's stronger, Dad or Big Grandpa?”

“Of course, I'm the powerful one! Your father, that brat…'

Qin Canglan's sadness was drowned in his complaints about Wei Ting.

On the other side, the lamb was almost done roasting.

The fat of the mutton sizzled out and was roasted into a crispy skin. Then, it was sprinkled with dried and stir-fried sesame seeds. It was so fragrant that Su MO, the number one young master in the capital, swallowed his saliva without caring about his image.

The three little ones hugged a lamb leg each and gnawed on it with their glutinous teeth.

The family surrounded the bonfire.

Su Xiaoxiao brought out the mixed sauce noodles. Every noodle was wrapped in a salty, fragrant, and oily sauce. When they slurped it in, their souls sublimated!

After dinner, Su Cheng lay on the lawn with Su Ergou and the three little ones to air their stomachs.

After eating and drinking his fill, he was really proud of his life!

Su MO brought two horses over and said to Su Xiaoxiao, “Do you want to take a walk over there?”

“Are you going on a horse?” Su Xiaoxiao stared straight at the two horses, her eyes shining.

Su MO held back his laughter. “If you don't know how to ride, I'll teach you.”

Su Xiaoxiao said seriously, “Of course, I know how to ride!”

She came to the two horses and casually picked one.

Su MO led the other horse diagonally in front of Su Xiaoxiao. “We have to check the saddle first. If it's too loose, it will be dangerous. If it's too tight, the horse will feel uncomfortable. This level is just right.”

“What's so difficult about that? Who doesn't know how to do it?” Su Xiaoxiao followed suit and adjusted the saddle.

Su MO slowly got on the horse.

Leng Zhiruo got on the horse a little quickly. Su Xiaoxiao only saw a rough outline, but Su Mo's actions were much clearer..

Chapter 323

She quietly imitated Su Mo's posture and got on the horse.

Indeed, it was stable and relaxed.

Su MO held the reins tightly. “Grab here and clamp your legs around the horse's abdomen.”

Su Xiaoxiao said seriously, “I said I know how to ride!”

The corners of Su MO's lips curled up. Instead of using the horsewhip, he gently flicked the reins. “Giddyup!”

The horse began to move slowly.

Su Xiaoxiao followed behind him and observed his movements without blinking.

Su MO rode very slowly.

Su Xiaoxiao followed him unhurriedly.

Gradually, Su MO rode faster. Su Xiaoxiao held the reins tightly. “Giddyup!”

Su MO continued to accelerate.

Su Xiaoxiao also accelerated.

The overall situation was not too fast.

When Su MO turned the corner, he told Su Xiaoxiao the key to pulling the reins, “The tacit understanding between humans and horses often takes time to get used to, but a really powerful cavalry only needs a password.”

With that, Su MO shouted, “Giddyup!”

The horse raised its front hooves and left!

Su Xiaoxiao wouldn't be shaken off easily. She circled the reins with a determined gaze. “Giddyup!”

She had a hard time chasing after him at first.

But gradually, she became faster and faster, and her cooperation with the horse became better.

As soon as Su MO turned around, she caught up!

In the next second, she rushed past Su MO like a knife cutting open wind blades!

Su MO was a little surprised.

Even though he deliberately suppressed the horse's speed, it was already fast enough for a newbie who had just learned to ride a horse, yet she could catch up.

One had to know that even his brothers at home did not have such aptitude.

Su Xiaoxiao rode until she forgot the time. When she returned to the small courtyard, Xiaohu and Erhu had already fallen asleep. Dahu was still holding on, his small body swaying.

“Mother.”

Dahu stretched out his small arm to Su Xiaoxiao.

Su Xiaoxiao hugged the little guy. “Go to sleep.”

Only then did Dahu fall asleep in peace.

On the way back, Su Ergou fell asleep.

Su Xiaoxiao carried Dahu.

Su MO carried Xiaohu and Erhu. Su Xiaoxiao asked, “When will my father compete with Qin Jiang?”

Su MO said, “The first of next month.”

Su Xiaoxiao continued, “Are they competing in martial arts?”

Su MO nodded. “Martial arts is one of them. In addition, there's also riding and archery. I've asked my grandfather. Uncle's aptitude is excellent, and Qin Jiang is injured. In terms of martial arts, Uncle has the advantage. His odds for riding and archery are both 50%. Art of war is Qin Jiang's forte.”

“As long as my father wins two rounds, he can obtain military power?”

'Yes.”

Su Xiaoxiao patted Dahu's back thoughtfully.

The next day, Su Xiaoxiao went to the palace academy.

Chapter 324

Miss Wang asked, “Miss Hu, do you still have the medication your father developed? Can I buy a bottle from you?”

Hu Biyun smiled gently. “We're classmates. It's too distant if we talk about money. I'll go back and ask Father. If there's any, I'll give you a bottle.” Miss Wang held her arm affectionately. “Miss Hu, you're the best.”

Lin Ruyue said, “Miss Hu, can you give me a bottle too?”

Hu Biyun smiled and said, “If there's more at home, of course, there's no problem. Does anyone else want it?”

“Me too!”

The most famous daughter today was Hu Biyun.

Princess Jingning had only heard about this when she arrived at Gong Xuecai.

Princess Jingning frowned.

She kept feeling that her face had not improved because of Imperial Physician Hu's medication, but she did not have evidence at the moment.

After all, before using the medication that the little girl had given her, she had applied Imperial Physician Hut s new medication.

The little girl must have felt wronged. She had taken such good medicine to curry favor with her. Who would have thought that the credit would be wrongly directed?

It was her mother who announce…

She could not openly slap her mother's face without sufficient evidence.

She could only make it up to the little girl in other ways.

Hence, Su Xiaoxiao received Princess Jingning's invitation again at noon.

Looking at the two of them leave together, Qin Yanran frowned slightly.

In order to make the little girl happy…

In fact, Princess Jingning was 17 years old this year and was only a year older than Su Xiaoxiao.

Princess Jingning did not go to Kunning Palace. Instead, she chose the pavilion of the Tai Liquid Pool for lunch.

The wind was gentle and the sun was bright. The Tai Liquid Pool was sparkling. Not far away, there was a gorgeous peach forest.

Smelling the fragrance of the flowers and listening to the music was a different kind of enjoyment.

Princess Jingning took off her veil and said to Su Xiaoxiao, “Sit.”

Su Xiaoxiao looked at the musician sitting at the side and thought to herself that the princess was so imposing. This was an ancient version of a music restaurant.

The food today was also quite special. It was sea bass brewed with peach juice and accompanied by sweet and delicious peach blossom pancakes. It was sweet but not saccharine, and there was not much oil.

Su Xiaoxiao ate quite well.

Princess Jingning really did not understand how someone could eat with so much enjoyment. She clearly did not eat in a vulgar manner, but her cheeks were puffed up and her small mouth was oily, making the food seem especially appetizing.

She ate half another bowl of rice.

“You don't have to take Imperial Physician Hu's matter to heart. Father has long wanted him to be the Court Commissioner. This matter is just speeding up the progress.”

Su Xiaoxiao looked at her in confusion.

Princess Jingning blamed herself even more. Her credit had clearly been snatched away, but this girl did not even dare to say anything.

Sigh, what kind of pitiful person was this?

“Your medication… is very effective.”

This was the truth. When she went to the palace school today, she only wore a veil and not a forehead accessory. Her entire forehead was exposed. Hui An's eyes widened. She probably did not expect her to recover so much overnight.

Su Xiaoxiao looked at the acne on her face.

Oh, so that bottle of sticky black ointment had this effect.

Oh, so that bottle of sticky black ointment had this effect.

Princess Jingning continued, “I didn't eat the snacks yesterday. My father ate them.”

Su Xiaoxiao nodded. “Then I'll bring you another box tomorrow.”

Princess Jingning didn't care if it was snacks or not. She mainly wanted to give the little girl a chance to continue currying favor with her.

After dinner, Princess Jingning returned to Kunning Palace to rest while Su Xiaoxiao returned to the Bright Moon Pavilion.

Halfway there, there was a small interlude.

Su Xiaoxiao took a shortcut to the peach garden and unexpectedly bumped into the Grand Empress Dowager sitting idly in the peach garden.

The Grand Empress Dowager was dressed in a noble purple muslin palace dress. She had her hair combed into a lily bun and was wearing a dazzling purple-gold hairpin. Such a bright outfit exuded an otherworldly immortal aura in the garden.

Not far away, two or three palace servants were picking peach blossoms with baskets.

She read quietly.

There were a few Buddhist scriptures beside her.

What she was reading should be Buddhist scriptures.

She was so focused on reading that she did not notice anyone coming over.

Su Xiaoxiao stared at her eyebrows seemed similar to Madam Li's.

Madam Li did not read Buddhist scriptures. She did not even like to read.

She was just pretending to be a business elite who had returned from overseas.

Madam Li released a talented poem on the Internet every few days because she had a professional writing team.

The memories of Madam Li suddenly became clear again.

Hiss…

Su Xiaoxiao caught a faint movement in her ears and instantly regained consciousness.

At this moment, a poisonous snake with its tongue out came to the Grand Empress Dowager's feet..

Chapter 325

Su Xiaoxiao's eyes turned cold. She took out the dagger at her waist and shot it at the poisonous snake!

The tip of the knife nailed the poisonous snake to the ground, together with the hem of the Grand Empress Dowager's dress.

The sudden sound and pull shocked the Grand Empress Dowager. She turned to look at her skirt and trembled in fear!

She gasped and gave a low cry.

Not far away, the palace servant who was picking peach blossoms hurriedly turned around and walked over.

When they saw the poisonous snake nailed to the Grand Empress Dowager's skirt, they screamed in fear. “Protect! Protect!”

“Protect the Empress Dowager!”

The few of them shouted for protection, but they were helpless against a poisonous snake. They were flustered and the scene was extremely chaotic.

Su Xiaoxiao walked over calmly.

“Who is it?!” a eunuch asked sternly.

Su Xiaoxiao glanced at him and came to the Grand Empress Dowager.

The eunuch took out a small peach from the flower basket and pointed at Su Xiaoxiao fiercely. “Move aside!”

Su Xiaoxiao looked at the intimidating little peach fruit and shook her head. She squatted down, took out her dagger, and grabbed the poisonous snake.

“Can I borrow a medicine bottle?” She tilted her head and asked.

The Grand Empress Dowager looked at her in a daze and nodded.

Seeing that his master had agreed, the eunuch took out an empty bottle.

He handed it to Su Xiaoxiao carefully.

“Is… is it dead?” he stammered.

Su Xiaoxiao looked at the snake in her hand and said, “Oh, no, he's still breathing.”

“Aiya!” The eunuch jumped back in shock.

Su Xiaoxiao killed the poisonous snake and took out its gallbladder to put into the medicine bottle.

The entire process was smooth and unchanging, leaving the palace servants dumbfounded.

“Who… who are you?”

The eunuch who was so frightened just now came back to his senses and mustered his courage to ask Su Xiaoxiao.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Oh, I'm a student at the palace academy. I just had lunch with Princess Jingning in the pavilion over there.”

By explaining her identity and the reason for entering the harem, she could save unnecessary trouble to a large extent.

When he heard that she was with Princess Jingning, he did not suspect that she had released the snake just now. Or rather, even if he was suspicious, it was not good for him to detain her and interrogate her.

Su Xiaoxiao handed the snake's carcass forward. “Snake meat is very nourishing. Do you want it?”

The palace servants shook their heads like dice!

The Empress Dowager also shook her head.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Then I'll take it away.”

The palace servants nodded like chickens pecking at rice. Hurry up and take it away!

Su Xiaoxiao took two steps and paused. She tilted her head and asked the Grand Empress Dowager, “It's also a piece of physical evidence. Are you sure you don't want it?”

The Grand Empress Dowager understood what she was referring to and shook her head slightly again. “No need. There's a lot of grass here. It's damp and dense. It's not strange for there to be poisonous snakes.”

Su Xiaoxiao felt that it was quite strange because the poisonous snake had gone straight for the Grand Empress Dowager.

“Take it away.” The Grand Empress Dowager said to Su Xiaoxiao, “Thank you for today. What's your name?”

“Su Xiaoxiao.”

Su Xiaoxiao accidentally said her real name.

It was all the Grand Empress Dowager's fault for looking too similar to Madam Li, making her forget her current identity for a moment.

“My official name is Su Daya,” she added.

The corners of the palace servants' mouths twitched. Her family was really willful when it came to naming.

Su Xiaoxiao left.

She turned around and looked at the Grand Empress Dowager, who was surrounded by the palace servants.

Her expression was filled with faint sadness and loneliness.

She suddenly felt that the Grand Empress Dowager was quite pitiful.

In the afternoon, there was a riding and archery class.

After the accident the day before, many guards and experts were sent over. The students were no longer allowed to choose their horses. Instead, they were allocated; there was no exception made for the two princesses.

In addition, because the previous teacher had been removed by Xiao Zhonghua, everyone was guessing who the teacher would be this time.

When the new teacher rode to the horse farm, everyone present was dumbfounded.

The man was dressed in dark blue clothes. He had a cold expression and a tall figure. He had an imposing appearance and a devastatingly beautiful face. There was a hint of arrogance between his eyebrows.

Who else could it be but Wei Ting?

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Eh?”

Princess Hui An and Princess Lingxi could not take their eyes off him.

The two of them were extremely excited.

“Brother Ting!”

Princess Hui An mounted her horse and immediately galloped toward Wei Ting.

Not to be outdone, Princess Lingxi raised her whip and chased after him..

Chapter 326

Su Xiaoxiao narrowed her eyes.

Princess Jingning snorted disdainfully.

The only woman in the entire capital who was indifferent to Wei Ting's beauty was probably Princess Jingning.

Many young ladies present also blushed slightly.

Su Xiaoxiao looked at everyone in a complicated manner.

Could they be more focused? Two days ago, they were still infatuated with Su MO, but it seemed they liked Wei Ting now.

However, although they liked him, who dared to snatch him from the princess and county princess?

They only dared to feast their eyes.

Speaking of which, why was Wei Ting here? Could he really be their new riding and shooting teacher?

Su Xiaoxiao was also puzzled.

Wasn't this fellow grounded by the emperor for a month? It had only been a few days, but the emperor had already released him!

Emperor Jing Xuan did not want to release it either, but Wei Ting asked Eunuch Yu to bring the emperor a handwritten letter.

In the handwritten letter, Wei Ting reflected deeply on his actions of colliding with Qin Jiang. As a minister, he should share His Majesty's worries. He heard that the palace academy had just fired a riding and shooting teacher.

He was willing to use the Wei family's hundred-year reputation as a guarantee to recommend a riding and archery genius stronger than Qin Canglan to His Majesty.

Emperor Jing Xuan approved.

When Emperor Jing Xuan saw Wei Ting appear in front of him, he felt terrible!

Could he really… have some shame?

He had to be true to his word. Emperor Jing Xuan could not change his mind and slap his own face.

Hence, this scene happened.

Princess Hui An and Princess Lingxi did not have the chance to rush in front of Wei Ting as they were stopped by the inner court experts who followed closely.

Emperor Jing Xuan had ordered that horse racing was to be prohibited.

The two of them returned to the crowd in exasperation.

Wei Ting rode his horse to everyone and stopped in front of Su Xiaoxiao.

His gaze did not land on Su Xiaoxiao. Everyone thought that he had casually chosen a spot.

Wei Ting was not a noble young master who valued reputation. He was famous for his bad temper. He did not even give the princess face, let alone these daughters of aristocratic families.

As soon as he got on the horse, the daughters obediently got on.

Su Xiaoxiao leisurely checked the saddle.

Lin Ruyue burst out laughing. “Miss Su, Master Wei asked you to get on the horse. Are you deaf?”

As soon as she finished speaking, she realized that Leng Zhiruo had not gotten on the horse.

Wei Ting rode on a tall horse and said with a dignified expression, “You didn't check the saddle before getting on the horse. Other than Miss Su and Miss Leng, everyone else is not qualified. Horse stance for an hour!”

Everyone was dumbfounded

Princess Hui An called out sweetly, “Brother Ting

Wei Ting said, “Add 15 minutes.”

Princess Hui An was speechless.

Princess Lingxi smiled proudly and looked at Wei Ting. “Cousin!”

Wei Ting said, “Add an hour.”

Princess Lingxi was speechless.

Wei Ting was a very serious teacher in class.

Su Xiaoxiao was not a serious student.

When she rode past Wei Ting, she whispered, “Brother Ting

Wei Ting trembled and almost fell off the horse!

The young ladies finished practicing the horse stance one after another and came to class.

Looking at the valiant, dignified, and cold Master Wei on the horse, everyone was afraid.

Su Xiaoxiao felt an inexplicable itch in her heart.

Did these people know how much he doted on her in private?

Of course… his mouth was a little lacking.

Speaking of which, Su Xiaoxiao thought of what he had said to her before he left the night before.

Would today count as the next time…

Su Xiaoxiao subconsciously touched her lips.

Princess Jingning rode her horse to a stop beside her and asked, “What happened to your mouth?”

“Nothing.” Su Xiaoxiao lowered her hand.

Wei Ting's riding and archery class had substance. He did not treat the students as pampered princesses or daughters. They would not be specially treated on the battlefield just because they were women. There were no men or women under the butcher's knife.

At first, Princess Hui An thought that it was good for Wei Ting to teach them how to ride and shoot. This way, she could see Wei Ting every day.

At first, Princess Hui An thought that it was good for Wei Ting to teach them how to ride and shoot. This way, she could see Wei Ting every day.

Now, she wished Wei Ting had never come.

Qin Yanran had been riding a horse since she was young. To be honest, even she felt that it was difficult. However, when she looked at Su Xiaoxiao not far away, she realized that her aura was not chaotic at all.

That was true. She didn't do the horse stance. How tired could she be on horseback?

If she was like her, she would definitely have a more stable aura.

Leng Zhiruo panted slightly.

She raised her sleeve to wipe her sweat and looked at Su Xiaoxiao, who was practicing over and over again on the racecourse, with confusion in her eyes.

Finally, after class, the daughters' backs ached. They felt that their legs, arms, and butts were no longer theirs.

Due to the punishment of the horse stance, they were delayed for some time. They only practiced riding and did not learn archery.

Qin Yanran felt that there was no need to learn. She also felt that she had lost face in front of Su Xiaoxiao today and wanted to get it back through archery. She nocked the bow and shot it cleanly at the rake, hitting the red bullseye.

Her lips curved.

The daughters at the side were stunned.

Was Miss Qin human?

After being ravaged by Master Wei for the entire afternoon, she still had the strength to shoot. And she shot so accurately!

Miss Qin smiled at Su Xiaoxiao. “You've never shot an arrow in the countryside, right? Do you want me to teach you?”

Wei Ting rode his horse over indifferently. “Miss Qin, you're so capable. You even dare to teach my student.”

“Master Wei.” Qin Yanran hurriedly turned around and bowed.

Wei Ting took an arrow from the quiver held by the palace servants and gently plucked the feathers on the tail with his slender fingers.

Then, he waved his hand without looking at the target at the side.

With a swish, the arrow tore through the air and hit Qin Yanran's arrow accurately. It cut it open from the tail and stabilized at the center of the target.

Qin Yanran's mind buzzed.

The others had goosebumps.

He didn't use a bow and shot it with his bare hands…

How much strength and foolproof accuracy did he have?

Wei Ting… was too terrifying.

Qin Yanran was showing off in front of him. She was simply asking for humiliation!

Was Wei Ting shooting Qin Yanran's arrow?

No, he was shooting at Qin Yanran's face!

Chapter 327

Qin Yanran didn't know how she left the grassland.

Was Wei Ting supporting that girl?

Why?

As a member of the Qin family, shouldn't she be hated by Wei Ting like Qin Yanran?

No, she was Qin Canglan's biological granddaughter. Wei Ting should hate her even more.

Qin Yanran couldn't figure it out.

Everyone returned to the classroom to pack their books.

As expected, Su Xiaoxiao slowly packed her items and was last.

When she left the palace, there was only a carriage left at the door, parked where Su MO usually parked.

When the coachman saw her, he hurriedly bowed to her and turned to get a footstool.

“Eh? Did you change the carriage?”

Su Xiaoxiao walked over and realized that the coachman had also changed. It was an unfamiliar face.

She didn't think too much about it and stepped onto the stool to get into the carriage.

As soon as she sat down, her wrist was grabbed and pressed against the wall of the carriage.

A certain someone questioned in a low voice, “Who allowed you to shout those messy names in class?”

Su Xiaoxiao thought this was too exciting. After all, this was the entrance of the palace.

Su Xiaoxiao blinked. “What name? Can't you understand? Why don't you help me recall?”

Wei Ting did not fall for it. He let go of her wrist coldly and sat up.

“Where's Su MO? How did you send him away?”

Wei Ting only chuckled, clearly not wanting to discuss another man with her.

“Wei Ting, how did you become a riding and shooting teacher?”

“Guess.”

He did not want to say it anymore.

Su Xiaoxiao didn't force him. Anyway, the next time Blackie came, she would ask him.

However, she really had a few things to verify with Wei Ting.

Su Xiaoxiao asked, “Wei Ting, why are you waiting for me here? Are you—” At this point, she lengthened her tone and looked at him meaningfully.

Wei Ting's face turned cold. “Can you stop thinking about… those things?”

Su Xiaoxiao raised her eyebrows. “What things? I haven't asked.”

Wei Ting was speechless.

“Alright, let's get down to business.” Su Xiaoxiao stopped teasing him and voiced the doubts that had been buried in her heart for the past two days. “Whose sons are Dahu, Erhu, and Xiaohu?” She changed the topic a little too quickly.

Wei Ting was stunned.

“You don't want to say?” Su Xiaoxiao asked.

In the past, Su Xiaoxiao might not have spoken about it at all, but now, their relationship had improved.

She would want to know more. “What did Su MO tell you?”

Wei Ting's words were spot-on.

When smart people talked, they never needed those roundabout probing.

He could guess that Su MO had told her. Su Xiaoxiao was not surprised.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “He said they're children of the Wei family. Wei Liulang's.”

Wei Ting was silent for a moment before saying, “That's right. They're my sixth brother's children.”

“Who's their mother?”

If she remembered correctly, Wei Liulang of the Wei family did not seem to be married.

Wei Ting paused and said, “Prince Nanyangis daughter.

Su Xiaoxiao asked in confusion, “Didn't the Nanyang King's bloodline die from the plague ten years ago?”

This was what was said to the outside world. In fact, it was because he had secretly rebelled and was discovered by Emperor Jing Xuan,

Wei Ting did not explain that they did not die of the plague. He believed that she would know the real cause of their deaths.

He only continued, “When my grandfather arrived, everyone's coffin was buried. Because they died of the 'plague', they were seen as impure and could not be buried in the imperial mausoleum, so they casually found a graveyard. My grandfather heard a faint commotion in the graveyard. He dug out the coffin… It was King Nanyang's youngest daughter.”

“My grandfather brought her back to the Wei family and raised her in the residence as a maidservant. He considered saying that she was a distant relative, but as soon as something happened to the Nanyang Prince's Mansion, King Nanyang's old subordinate had a relative about the same age as the young princess. Who couldn't tell that something was wrong?”

Su Xiaoxiao nodded. In that situation, the identity of a maidservant was the least eye-catching.

Wei Ting continued, “The young princess was too agitated and suffered from aphasia. Grandpa handed her to Grandma, and Grandma personally raised her by her side. Other than Grandpa, Grandma, and my father, no one else knows her identity. Even my sixth brother doesn't know. As for me, I only found out last year.”

“Grandmother is a very cautious person. In the seven years that the young princess has been at home, no one has seen through her.”

“But sometimes, fate plays tricks on us. We were already very careful, but we were still discovered.”

Su Xiaoxiao asked, “How did that happen?”

Wei Ting frowned. “Four years ago, she was not feeling well and secretly left the residence to get medicine behind my family's back. When she walked into an alley, her veil was knocked off. The person who bumped into her happened to be a servant who had been chased out of the house by the Prince of Nanyang. That person recognized her..”

Chapter 328

“She knew that her identity had been exposed. In order not to implicate the Wei family, she escaped alone. When the secret guards beside Grandmother rushed to the scene, they only found a bag of fallen herbs on the ground.”

“They were for stabilizing one's pregnancy.”

This way, it was not difficult to explain why she did not invite a doctor in the residence but went out for a consultation.

She might have sensed that she was pregnant herself.

Su Xiaoxiao thought for a moment and asked, “She and your sixth brother…”

Wei Ting said slowly, “Sixth Brother went to the border a month ago.

Grandmother didn't say that she had disappeared and only wrote to ask Sixth Brother what was going on. Sixth Brother said that they had long been engaged. He didn't care that she was a little mute girl. He won't marry anyone but her in his life. He said that he would marry her gloriously when he came back from winning the war.”

“It was not that Grandmother couldn't tell that the two of them had feelings for each other. She knew that this marriage is impossible. In order to sever Sixth Brother's thoughts about the young princess, she made the decision to arrange a marriage for Sixth Brother and the Guo family.”

The Guo family… This surname was a little familiar.

The Guo family… This surname was a little familiar.

Su Xiaoxiao asked, “What happened next?”

Wei Ting said, “Later on, the young princess hid everywhere with the fetus in her stomach and gave birth to Dahu and the others. For nearly three years, she was pursued countless times. Later on, there was one time when she really couldn't hide anymore. She carried a child made of straw and jumped off the cliff.'

Su Xiaoxiao asked, “One?”

Wei Ting explained, “On the way to escape, she once saved a wet nurse. She used some methods to make those who were chasing after her think that she had only given birth to one child. The other two were the wet nurse's children. Their faces had always been dirty to prevent them from being recognized as triplets. ”

Su Xiaoxiao asked, “Had the wet nurse been taking care of them since then?”

Wei Ting nodded. “The wet nurse didn't know what to do, so she could only lock them up.”

“For how long?”

“I don't know. It could be a month, two months, or more…'

When they found the wet nurse, she was already dead. They interrogated the killer and found out that the young princess had been killed a few months ago. No one knew how long it had been since the three children saw the light.

When they were first carried out, the three of them were in a daze and did not react to the outside world. They were afraid of the sunlight.

Su Xiaoxiao thought of the first time she met the children. At that time, they had already recovered a lot.

“You took good care of them,” she said.

“You too,” Wei Ting said.

It was rare for the two of them not to retort each other.

Wei Ting said in a low voice, “It's a pity that Sixth Brother didn't know that he had three children in the world until he died in battle.”

Throughout the entire process, Wei Ting did not say a word of sadness or shed a tear.

His fingertips trembled slightly.

Su Xiaoxiao didn't say anything and gently held his hand.

“Eh? I think I heard Little Seven's voice!”

“Really? Where?”

Wei Ting's body trembled and he pulled himself out of his sadness in a second!

Su Xiaoxiao asked strangely, “Eh, that voice is—”

Wei Ting took a deep breath. “My fifth sister-in-law.”

Su Xiaoxiao nodded. “No wonder it sounds familiar. The other person…”

Wei Ting closed his eyes. “My grandmother.”

Su Xiaoxiao was speechless.

Old Madam Wei got someone to stop the carriage.

Madam Jiang jumped off the ground.

Madam Jiang married into the Wei family five years ago. She was actually only a year older than Wei Ting, so her words were really an exaggeration.

She came to Wei Ting's carriage and sized up the coachman. “You don't look familiar.'

The coachman said politely, “Madam, what can I do for you?”

Madam Jiang snorted. “Cut the crap and let Little Seven out!”

The coachman looked puzzled. “I don't understand.”

“Get out of the way!” Madam Jiang got into the carriage and lifted the curtain.

The carriage was empty. There was no one there.

She muttered, “Impossible… I clearly heard Little Seven's voice… I won't hear wrongly…”

Old Madam Wei lifted the curtain and looked at the bustling streets. She shouted indifferently, “Fu Su!”

A figure descended from the sky.

He had just landed on one foot when he suddenly realized that he had been exposed.

If he was nearby, didn't that mean that Young Master was also there?

He couldn't place his other foot or not. He just stood there on one foot.

In the alley, Wei Ting, who was holding Su Xiaoxiao's wrist, raised his hand to cover his eyes.

His grandmother was more experienced after all…

“I'll look for you another day.”

With that, he walked out of the alley helplessly.

“Grandmother.”

He stood by the carriage and greeted Matriarch Wei through the window. Old Madam Wei glanced at him. “Didn't you go to be a riding and shooting teacher?”

“Class is over.”

“Why didn't you return to the residence after class?”

Wei Ting smiled. “Aren't I… here to pick you and Fifth Sister-in-law up? “Bullsh*t!” Madam Jiang jumped down from Wei Ting's carriage. “You didn't know we would come here!”

“Fifth Sister-in-law…

Old Madam Wei Ting interrupted him. “Stop talking nonsense!”

Wei Ting decisively changed the topic. “Grandmother, why did you leave the residence?”

Matriarch Wei did not leave the residence easily. Old Madam Wei said coldly, “Can't I come out for a walk?”

Wei Ting said, “Alright, I'll accompany you.”

Old Madam Wei said, “I think you just don't want to return to the residence!” Wei Ting covered his chest in hurt. “Sigh, I'm sincere. Why do I always let others treat me like a mule?”

Old Madam Wei instructed the secret guard, “Fu Su, bring Little Seven back to the residence!”

The secret guard whispered to Wei Ting, “Young Master, let's go.” Wei Ting and Fu Su got into the carriage back to the residence.

Old Madam Wei and Madam Jiang's carriage continued forward.

As Wei Ting turned around to look at the departing carriage from the window, a trace of contemplation flashed across his eyes.

When Su Xiaoxiao arrived home, Physician Fu had been waiting in the central room for a long time.

Beside him sat a middle-aged man in his early forties. Physician Fu was actually about the same age as him, but Physician Fu looked anxious and had experienced many vicissitudes.

“Miss Su.” Physician Fu waved at Su Xiaoxiao.

Su Xiaoxiao walked over.

Physician Fu introduced, “Broker Li.”

Protector Li cupped his hands politely. “Miss Su.”

The last time Su Xiaoxiao went to the Marquis of Zhenbei's Estate, she had discussed her future plans with Physician Fu.

Su Xiaoxiao thought that she could open a medical center in the capital, but

Physician Fu was thinking about Aunt Fu and said that he would consider it.

However, now that he had brought a broker, he should have thought it through.

“Sit down for a while.'

After Su Xiaoxiao finished speaking, the two of them watched as she took out a bag made of cowhide from her homemade book bag.

She opened the bag and emptied it. Broker Li screamed in fear. “Snake—”

Physician Fu walked over with interest. “Silver Ring Snake? It's quite fat. Where did you catch it?”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “In the palace.”

Physician Fu was speechless.

Su Xiaoxiao finished dealing with the snake and gallbladder and went to Ling

Yun.

When the three little ones heard that she was going out, they hugged her legs and wanted to be with her.

“I can't even see Mother during the day,” Xiaohu wheedled.

Although he was very happy to be in class, he only wanted to be with his mother after class.

Su Xiaoxiao scratched his head in amusement and brought the three little fellows along.

On the way back, she kissed them one by one.

The three of them covered their red faces and were extremely shy.

“Mother, why did you kiss us?” Erhu asked.

Su Xiaoxiao bent down and touched his head. She said softly, “It's just that suddenly, I really want to kiss you..”

Chapter 329

When doing business in town, she did not have money and could only start by setting up a stall.

Now, including the consultation fee of the Marquis of Zhenbei and the household expenses that Wei Ting had asked Blackie to send over, she had a small start-up capital on hand. She should be able to rent a decent shop in the capital.

Broker Li chose five shops according to their needs. Among them, there were two on Scholar Street, one big and one small.

The little one was originally a tavern. The boss did not manage it well and was urgently transferring it.

The big one was an old pharmacy that had been open for more than ten years. Its original business was indeed good, but last year, a medical center by the name of Benevolence Hall opened next door and much of its business was snatched away.

Last month, the pharmacy almost caused the death of a patient. Fortunately, Benevolence Hall saved her in time. Otherwise, a life would have been lost.

“It couldn't go on either,” Broker Li said.

The first shop they looked at was this pharmacy.

The pharmacy had a total of two floors. The first floor was the lobby and pharmacy, and the second floor was the accounting room and other rooms. There was also a spacious backyard and two transparent back rooms.

“That's fine…” Physician Fu said.

Su Xiaoxiao nodded.

The first time she entered, she felt very satisfied.

The walls and ground were very clean, and the lighting was excellent. The medicine cabinet was ready-made, and the functions of the room could be changed, but there was almost no need to make a big fuss. They could open for business immediately after renting it.

Most importantly, it was close to Pear Blossom Lane.

“Is this the nearest one?” Su Xiaoxiao asked Broker Li.

Broker Li said, “Yes, there's also a shop nearby on Long Stream Street. It's only a mile more than here. It was a wine cellar. They felt that the place was not big enough and rented a shop in East City. They stopped maintaining the old shop. ”

Su Xiaoxiao asked, “How is the size compared to this shop?”

Broker Li said, “The wine cellar is even larger. There's a big house on the ground. It's on the first floor, similar to a pharmacy, but it lacks a back room.” Su Xiaoxiao calculated in her heart. “How much is this shop?”

Broker Li took out the booklet and flipped through it. He asked, “Do you… want to rent or buy it?”

Su Xiaoxiao hummed. “Are you selling this shop too?”

Broker Li smiled and said, “It's originally their own house. If you want to buy it, the timing is not bad. With such a big mistake, the market here is not good.

The price can be lowered.”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Just tell me how much.” Broker Li reached out and made an eight. Su Xiaoxiao said calmly, “800 taels?”

The three little ones ran around the lobby. Xiaohu imitated her. “800 taels! 800 taels!”

Broker Li shook his head in embarrassment.

Su Xiaoxiao blinked. “It's not 80, is it?”

Broker Li muttered, “You really dare to think about it…”

Broker Li coughed lightly. “8,000.”

Crack!

Physician Fu opened the medicine cabinet and pushed it back.

He turned around and said to Broker Li, “What shop costs 8,000 taels? It's too expensive! We're not buying it!”

Broker Li smiled and said, “If you really want it, the price can be negotiated.”

“What's the rent like?” Su Xiaoxiao asked.

Ah, did she really not want to buy it anymore?

Broker Li was stunned for a moment before replying, “If you rent it, it's 100 taels a month. You have to pay 3 months in advance.”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “100 taels isn't cheap either. Are other shops selling at this price?”

Broker Li said, “This is about the price of the shops on Scholar Street. The ones on Long Stream Street can be cheaper by 20 to 30 taels, but the location is not so good and the sizes are not so big.”

Su Xiaoxiao looked at him. “Are you saying that you get what you pay for?”

Broker Li smiled. “That's true.”

Physician Fu walked over and pulled Su Xiaoxiao aside. He whispered, “I think it's too expensive. If nothing happened to this shop, how much would it cost? Why don't we go to another shop to take a look? If there's really no other way, let's change the broker.”

Su Xiaoxiao felt that Broker Li was not bad. He was smart and not cunning. The price he quoted was not much different from the market rates she had learned over the past few days.

“Alright, let's take a look elsewhere.”

Su Xiaoxiao agreed and said to the three little ones, “Dahu, Erhu, Xiaohu, we're leaving.”

The group left the shop and Broker Li locked the door.

Su Xiaoxiao tilted her head and glanced at Benevolence Hall next door. “Is this the medical center with the popular business?”

“That's right.” Broker Li put away the key. “Benevolence Hall has opened several in the capital. The earliest one has been open for 30 years. It's considered an old name.” Su Xiaoxiao: “Oh..”

Chapter 330

The group walked towards another shop on Scholar Street.

No matter how big or small the tavern was, it couldn't satisfy Su Xiaoxiao.

“Can you still walk?” Su Xiaoxiao asked the three little ones.

The three little ones nodded. “I can walk!”

So the group went to Long Stream Street again.

They looked at the wine cellar first. The moment they opened the door, the smell of strong alcohol assaulted their noses.

Xiaohu covered his nose exaggeratedly. “It stinks!”

Erhu stuck out his tongue. “I'm going to faint!”

Broker Li was amused by the children.

He was not worried that the children's reaction would affect today's business because the wine cellar was not suitable at all. He dared to bet that the girl would not choose.

Su Xiaoxiao looked at Physician Fu. “What do you think?”

Physician Fu cleared his throat. “Ahem, let's go to the next shop.”

The remaining two shops were still open. One was in the tea business, and the other sold cloth. It was indeed cheaper than the pharmacy, but it was a little far from home. In addition, the layout was not suitable and hard to illuminate.

Su Xiaoxiao asked Physician Fu, “Which shop do you like the most?”

Physician Fu looked at Broker Li, who was teasing the three little ones not far away, and said in a low voice, “The price of the tea shop is the most suitable.”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Put aside the price.”

Physician Fu thought to himself, “Is she so arrogant now?

“The first one.” he said truthfully.

Su Xiaoxiao nodded. “Alright, the first one it is.”

No, was it that good?

Was, was this a decision?

The rent was 100 taels a month!

How many patients did he have to see to cover the cost?

Physician Fu practiced medicine in town and treated the poor more often. He usually could not make ends meet. Not to mention a hundred taels, it was already Amitabha if he could earn seven to eight taels a month.

In his opinion, even if the consultation fees and medicine fees in the capital could be more expensive than the ones in town, he would not earn more than 100 taels.

“Is… is this bad? The medical center is next door… Are we snatching business?”

“Didn't Benevolence Hall also snatch the business of the pharmacy when they opened the medical center?”

Physician Fu was speechless.

Su Xiaoxiao walked over and said to Broker Li, “Ask the owner of the pharmacy out. Let's negotiate a price.”

Su Xiaoxiao was a decisive person. If she could resolve it today, she would definitely not delay it until tomorrow.

After bidding with the owner of the pharmacy for two hours, they finally bought the shop for 6,000 taels.

She took 60% of the 2,000 taels of silver that Su MO gave her. The other 40% was for Physician Fu. She added the 3,000 taels of silver that Wei Ting gave her. Before she left, Su Yuniang gave her 1,000 taels of silver and there was the money she had earned from making snacks over the past few days.

Su Xiaoxiao finished calculating. “I'm still short of 600 taels.”

Physician Fu took out the consultation fee that Su Xiaoxiao had given him without a word.

A total of 800 taels were given to Su Xiaoxiao.

Just as both sides were about to sign the contract, there was a small interlude.

Qin Yanran was here.

She appeared with the daughter of the Court Commissioner, Hu Biyun. She saw Su Xiaoxiao in the lobby of the pharmacy.

“I'll go say hello,” she said to Hu Biyun.

“I'll go say hello,” she said to Hu Biyun.

Hu Biyun frowned slightly. The two of them were classmates in the palace academy and were aunt and niece in private. If anyone had to greet them, it should be Miss Su.

People from the countryside really did not know the rules.

Hu Biyun was not interested in why Su Xiaoxiao appeared in a closed pharmacy.

“What? You want to buy this shop and open a medical center?” Qin Yanran exclaimed.

“Who is this girl?” Broker Li asked.

“I don't know her well,” Su Xiaoxiao said calmly.

She took the pen and was about to sign it.

Qin Yanran dissuaded, “Do you know what you're doing? Don't take the money Uncle gave you and spend it outside…”

Physician Fu frowned.

Su Xiaoxiao looked at Qin Yanran mockingly. “How do you know the money was given to me?”

Qin Yanran asked, “Isn't that so? Where did you get the money yourself?”

Physician Fu was famous for his good temper, but at this moment, he couldn't help but flare up. “Miss Qin, please be careful with your words!”

He had seen with his own eyes how this little girl had started from setting up a stall and walked step by step to where she was today.

She had worked hard to earn all her money!

Qin Yanran said earnestly, “Doctor Fu, you treated the Old Marquis's illness. I admit that your medical skills are brilliant, but I still have to advise you not to fool around with her.'

At the door, Hu Biyun slowly said, “Miss Qin, I think you should stop talking. She doesn't appreciate it at all. It's useless for you to say anything. Some people just won't turn back until they hit a wall.”

Qin Yanran sighed. “We're family after all. I don't want to see her suffer.”

Su Xiaoxiao said calmly, “Do you not want to see me suffer, or can't wait for me to suffer?”

“Of course, I'm doing this for your own good…” Qin Yanran shook her head helplessly and said to Broker Li and the owner of the pharmacy, “You probably don't know, but Miss Su grew up in the countryside. This is her first time in the capital…

The two of them muttered, “So she's a country girl…”

Hu Biyun said arrogantly, “In the entire capital, there's no pharmacy or medical center that dares to open near our Benevolence Hall. Otherwise, how do you think this pharmacy closed down? Or do you think that Benevolence Hall's business is good and there are so many patients that you can't see the end of them, so you want to pick up some that we leaked?”

The two of them chattered. Su Xiaoxiao was a little impatient. She frowned slightly and a trace of coldness appeared in her eyes.

She looked at Hu Biyun. “Benevolent Hall, from the Hu family?”

“Which Hu family?” Physician Fu asked.

Qin Yanran was surprised. “Don't you know about the Hu family headed by Court Commissioner Hu?”

Physician Fu was stunned. He turned to look at Hu Biyun. “Is your father… Hu Jiusheng?”

Hu Biyun raised her chin and said, “It's my father.”

Physician Fu's eyes were filled with shock. He grabbed Su Xiaoxiao's wrist.

“Excuse me!”

He pulled Su Xiaoxiao to the backyard.

He looked at the three little ones squatting on the ground and playing with stones and whispered to Su Xiaoxiao, “Let's not take this shop.”

Su Xiaoxiao asked strangely, “What's wrong?”

Physician Fu said, “If I'm not wrong, that must be Hu Jiusheng!”

Su Xiaoxiao asked, “Which Hu Jiusheng?”

Physician Fu clenched his fists and tried his best to control his emotions. He said with a complicated expression, “My father… used to be in the Imperial Hospital. Back then, because he had committed some mistakes and was afraid of attracting a fatal disaster, he faked his death and left the capital. Hu Jiusheng was my father's favorite student. My father mentioned this person to me more than once and said that if I was half as talented as him, his medical skills would not have to be passed on to outsiders. The Benevolent Heart Hall is his family's… We can't win!”

Actually, there was something else he didn't say.

Hu Jiusheng was not a kind person. Back then, he was the one who reported it, causing his father to have no choice but to fake his death and leave the capital.

He didn't care, but he didn't want to implicate Miss Su.

As Su Xiaoxiao looked at Physician Fu deeply, her gaze landing on his clenched fist. “Oh.'

The two of them returned to the lobby.

Qin Yanran looked at the two of them and said, “Have you decided?”

Broker Li and the boss of the pharmacy closed their eyes in disappointment.

Oh no, it was ruined again.

This shop… could not be sold again…

Su Xiaoxiao took the stamp, dipped her fingertip, and pressed her fingerprint.

Qin Yanran's eyes flashed.

Hu Biyun looked at the boss of the pharmacy at the side and then at Su
Xiaoxiao. She said mockingly, “The He family is an old name. They only lasted for a year. Miss Su, I bet you won't last more than half a year.”

“Half a year? That's too long.” Su Xiaoxiao picked up the contract calmly. “Three months.'

Hu Biyun chuckled. “You do know…”

Su Xiaoxiao looked at Hu Biyun and said word by word, “In three months, your

Benevolence Hall will disappear from this street!”

Chapter 331

Su Xiaoxiao said ruthless words in front of everyone. It was really shocking, but no one believed her.

Even Physician Fu, who was convinced by her medical skills, did not think that she could destroy Hu Jiusheng's Benevolence Hall in three months.

Qin Yanran looked regretful. “Why are you doing this? Don't say things in anger. Apologize to Miss Hu. I believe Miss Hu is magnanimous and won't argue with you.”

Hu Biyun snorted and said, “You're wrong, Miss Qin. I'm really calculative. I'll wait for her to make our Hu family's Benevolence Hall disappear from Scholar

Street!”

“Miss…” Although the boss of the pharmacy was anxious to sell his shop, he was not a sinister person.

He advised, “Don't go against the Hu family. You won't be able to win.”

Broker Li remained silent.

Just now, when he heard that the two of them had treated a certain marquis, he was secretly delighted. He had met a noble this time, but who knew that the two of them would offend the Hu family?

Alright, there was no need to persuade her.

Three months later, he was waiting to do their business.

They were either selling or renting.

On the way back, Physician Fu hesitated a few times.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “What did your father do for him to have to leave the capital back then?”

He should have kept the matter about his father to himself. But for some reason, he had an inexplicable trust in her.

He said, “More than ten years ago, my father went to Zhaoyang Hall to take the Empress Dowager's pulse. The night he returned, his expression was not right.

I asked him what was wrong, and he said that he was fine, but he was too tired. However, a few days later, my father 'consumed poison' and committed suicide. My mother and I brought my father's coffin back to the village and let him rest in peace. My father was a physician, so he naturally made himself look no different from a dead person. After avoiding many checks, we successfully arrived in Qingzhou.”

Su Xiaoxiao asked, “Other than you, is Grandmaster Huijue the only one who knows about this?”

Physician Fu said, “That's right. It's all thanks to her secret help that we can settle down in Qingzhou.”

Su Xiaoxiao touched her chin. “I've always been curious. What's Grandmaster

Hui Jue's identity? She seems very powerful.”

Physician Fu shook his head. “I actually don't know her identity in the mortal world. Although I have a father who is an imperial physician, my aptitude is slow and I didn't enter the Imperial Hospital. I don't have many opportunities to see the world. My mother must know, but she didn't tell me. Perhaps she wants to protect me. It's not a good thing to know too much.”

Su Xiaoxiao agreed with the last point.

But she didn't agree that his aptitude was low.

In this world, some people became famous at a young age, while others were late bloomers. They could not be generalized.

Su Xiaoxiao asked, “You just said that Hu Jiusheng betrayed your father?”

Physician Fu recalled, “That day, Hu Jiusheng was supposed to take the Grand

Empress Dowager's pulse. He ate something bad, so my father went in his place.”

Su Xiaoxiao touched her chin. “So your father… took the blame for Hu Jiusheng?”

Physician Fu sighed. “I don't know if it's considered taking the blame. My father originally planned to lie that he didn't manage to diagnose anything, but Hu Jiusheng told the administrator at that time that my father had always had the habit of writing medical cases. My father knew that he couldn't avoid it, so he decided to fake his death and leave the capital.”

Su Xiaoxiao was puzzled. “What did he find that caused him to leave the capital?”

Physician Fu had a complicated expression. “I only found out after peeping at the medical case before my father destroyed it. The page didn't record who the patient was or the time, but I know that it's from Zhaoyang Hall. There are only two words written on the entire paper.”

. Happy pulse.

When they arrived home, the three little ones were hungry and wanted to eat big meat buns. Su Xiaoxiao went out to buy them.

When Su Xiaoxiao walked back with a large bowl of meat buns, she was accidentally bumped by a woman who rushed forward.

With Su Xiaoxiao's weight… it was impossible for her to be knocked down, but the other party staggered forward and fell.

Su Xiaoxiao freed a hand and helped her up.

She didn't look at Su Xiaoxiao and thanked her in a low voice. Then, she wrapped her cloak tightly around her and hurried forward.

Su Xiaoxiao looked at her back strangely.

Was she seeing things just now?

Why did that person look a little like… the Grand Empress Dowager?

However, the Grand Empress Dowager would not appear alone on the streets in the palace.

The woman hurriedly ducked into an alley. She put on the hood on her cloak and looked back warily as she walked.

When she arrived at the entrance of the alley, she saw a gray figure and immediately shrank back in fear.

She returned the way she came and entered a ready-made clothes shop.

The lady boss greeted her warmly. “Madam, do you want to pick the materials or buy ready-made clothes?”

The woman turned around and said distractedly, “Pick the materials.”

The lady boss smiled and said, “There are a few new high-grade brocades in our shop. Madam, wait a moment. I'll show them to you.”

The woman grunted.

The lady boss turned around and went to the shelf to get clothes.

Suddenly, a sharp dagger pressed against the woman's back.

The woman stiffened.

The gray-robed man covered the dagger with his wide sleeve and helped her out with his other hand.

The lady boss turned around with the material. “Miss, these two… Eh? Where are they?”

The woman was brought into a quiet alley and pushed into an abandoned courtyard.

The man casually pushed her to the ground.

The others scurried out of the house.

One of the scar-faced men glanced at her and rubbed his hands lustfully.

“Where did you get such a handsome woman, Fifth Brother?”

The man glanced at her coldly. “She's not someone you can touch.”

The scar-faced man said aggrievedly, “Can't I touch her a couple of times?”

The man said coldly, “If you want me to chop off your hand, just try.” The scar-faced man took two steps back.

The man instructed, “I'm going out for a while. The few of you, watch her. Don't let her escape.”

The scar-faced man said, “Got it, Fifth Brother. Go ahead.'

The man turned around and left the house.

After making sure that he was far away, the scar-faced man squatted down beside the woman.

His wretched gaze landed on the woman, then he raised her chin.

“Old Zhou, Fifth Brother said that we can't touch her!”

“What's wrong with me touching her? It's not like I can break her body… But…

she doesn't look like a young lady anymore… She should have lost her virginity long ago… I'll play a few rounds first… The rest is yours…”

The woman was really beautiful. Her face was like jade, and her temperament was otherworldly. The wide robe could not hide her exquisite figure.

Which man could reject such a stunner?

The few of them fell silent.

The scar-faced man picked the woman up and kicked open the door, ignoring her struggles. He threw her roughly onto the messy bed.

He leaned forward.

The woman looked at him in fear, tears falling from her eyes.

In the courtyard, the three of them looked at each other.

“Will anything happen?”

“Don't you want to taste that woman?”

“What if Fifth Brother blames us?”

“How can he fall out with a brother who risked his life for him over a woman?”

There was the sound of a fall from the house. The woman wanted to escape, but the scar-faced man pressed her back.

The three of them smiled evilly and looked back at the closed door.

In the next second, a cold dagger was pressed to one of their necks.

The man felt a chill on his neck. “You..

He didn't have a chance to speak.

Su Xiaoxiao cut his throat.

It was too late when the other two realized that someone had broken in.

Su Xiaoxiao turned the hilt of her knife, and the cold light reflected by the blade flashed across their eyes.

The two of them fell to the ground before they could even resist.

Su Xiaoxiao kicked open the door and walked forward. She grabbed the scar-faced man's collar and was about to slit his throat.

She looked at the terrified woman on the bed, turned the hilt of her knife, and hit the top of his head with her elbow.

The scar-faced man's eyes rolled back and he fell unconscious.

Su Xiaoxiao threw him to the ground like a sack.

Su Xiaoxiao looked at the woman on the bed.

She was not seeing things. She was indeed the Grand Empress Dowager.

Su Xiaoxiao arrived in time. The Grand Empress Dowager's clothes were intact but her cloak was torn off.

Su Xiaoxiao walked over and picked up the cloak to cover her trembling body.

She looked at Su Xiaoxiao with teary eyes.

Perhaps it was because she had taken off her palace clothes, but after changing into a cloth gown, she seemed to be an ordinary civilian woman.

Although this was ridiculous, Su Xiaoxiao felt that she was not looking at the Grand Empress Dowager, but a frightened deer.

Su Xiaoxiao tied the ribbon of her cloak and couldn't help but coax her. “Grand Empress Dowager, it's fine.”

The Empress Dowager said nothing.

Su Xiaoxiao remembered that there was another man who seemed to be the leader of this group. His martial arts and vigilance were incomparable to the four perverts.

Su Xiaoxiao said to her, “Let's leave here first.” The Grand Empress Dowager nodded slightly.

Su Xiaoxiao brought her out of the house.

Just as they left, the man returned.

As he looked at the courtyard full of corpses, anger flashed in his eyes.

“They all had their throats slit… When did such an expert come to the capital?!”

Chapter 332

After leaving the house, Su Xiaoxiao picked up the hot alms bowl on the stone table and left the house with the Grand Empress Dowager.

Su Xiaoxiao walked in front. The Grand Empress Dowager followed wordlessly and didn't give any orders. Neither did she ask Su Xiaoxiao to send her back to the palace.

Was this not a solution?

Was she going home with her?

This was the Empress Dowager…

Su Xiaoxiao thought for a moment and stopped in her tracks. She turned to look at her.

In the palace, although she did not order people around, she carried her identity as the Empress Dowager and gave off a cold, distant, and high-and-mighty feeling.

It was unknown if she had been too frightened, but her face was slightly pale, making her look weak and pitiful.

Su Xiaoxiao asked, “Shall I… send you back to the palace now?”

The Empress Dowager fell silent again. Fine, she most likely sneaked out.

Su Xiaoxiao didn't ask her why she left the palace.

“Let's go,” Su Xiaoxiao said.

The Grand Empress Dowager looked at Su Xiaoxiao's back and her eyes flickered. In the end, she followed.

The two of them arrived at a clean small courtyard. Su Xiaoxiao pushed open the courtyard door and said to her, “Go in.”

The Grand Empress Dowager was stunned.

Su Xiaoxiao wondered, “What kind of expression is this?”

Su Xiaoxiao asked, “Did you think I was sending you back to the palace just now?”

The Grand Empress Dowager nodded slightly.

The Empress Dowager was someone everyone curried favor with in the palace, but if she secretly left the palace, she would be in big trouble.

Su Xiaoxiao sighed. “Sigh, I don't have a carriage. Won't we have to walk to the palace? The buns I bought are already cold.”

The three little fellows were still waiting to eat the steaming meat buns.

The Grand Empress Dowager looked at the alms bowl in her arms and was speechless.

Thinking of something, Su Xiaoxiao asked, “By the way, it's not good to refer to you as the Grand Empress Dowager outside.”

“Bai.” She paused and said softly, “Bai Xihe.”

Physician Fu had never seen the Grand Empress Dowager.

Su Xiaoxiao told him that this was a patient she had met on the way. As the medical center had yet to open, there was nothing inside, so she could only bring her home for treatment.

Physician Fu did not suspect anything.

The three little ones smelled the fragrance of the meat buns and ran over.

“Mother!”

The Grand Empress Dowager looked at the three children and then at Su Xiaoxiao. She was speechless with shock.

The three of them quickly saw the additional stranger in the house.

The Grand Empress Dowager was too young and did not look like someone in her early thirties at all. No one would doubt that she was 20 years old.

The three of them tilted their heads and sized her up cutely.

Dahu asked, “Mother, is this Aunt?”

“Yes…” Su Xiaoxiao glanced at the Grand Empress Dowager.” Madam Bai. '

Dahu said, “Oh, Aunt Bai.”

Su Xiaoxiao marveled at Dahus' social skills.

The Empress Dowager didn't put on airs in front of the children. In fact, ever since she left the palace, Su Xiaoxiao realized that she didn't put on any airs at all.

The three little ones kept calling her Aunt Bai, and the Empress Dowager's face did not turn red. Neither did her heart beat faster.

Su Xiaoxiao remarked that she didn't live in the palace for more than ten years for nothing.

“Dahu, Erhu, Xiaohu.” Su Xiaoxiao introduced the three little ones to the Grand Empress Dowager one by one. Then, she said to the three of them, “Go wash your hands and eat buns.”

“I've washed them!” Xiaohu raised his small hand and said.

Su Xiaoxiao smiled and placed the alms bowl on the table in the central room.

“Take it yourself.”

The three of them each took a big meat bun.

“Mother will eat too.”

He wanted to feed her the first bite.

Su Xiaoxiao smiled. “I'm not hungry. I'll eat later. Get one for Aunt Bai and

Grandpa Fu.”

Dahu said, “I'll take it.” Xiaohu fought for it. “I'll take it!”

The battle began again.

In the end, Physician Fu and Bai Xihe each obtained two big meat buns. One was from Dahu, and the other was from Xiaohu.

Su Xiaoxiao brought her to her room.

“I'll cook.”

Bai Xihe said in a daze, “Didn't you buy buns?”

Su Xiaoxiao assessed that the Grand Empress Dowager didn't know anything about food.

Su Xiaoxiao to the kitchen.

Bai Xihe sat on the edge of the bed with the meat bun and began to size up the room carefully.

It was not big, but it was clean and tidy. There were not many things that daughters used for home, such as embroidered baskets, embroidered racks, and so on. However, there were many children's toys.

She looked down at the big meat buns in her hand, picked one up, and took a small bite.

Ever since she entered the palace, she had never eaten anything from the common people.

Creak—

The door was pushed open a small gap and a round head poked in.

“Aunt Bai.”

Bai Xihe looked at the little guy in a daze. “Erhu?”

Erhu was extremely surprised.

It was rare to see an adult who could distinguish them so quickly.

Erhu was here to deliver buns.

He was the most scheming of the three little ones. He did not fight with his brothers and maintained the image of a gentleman. Then, he quietly came over and offered his services.

It couldn't be helped. Bai Xihe was too beautiful, and the children liked her very much.

Of course, they still liked their mother the most.

Bai Xihe said, “I can't finish it.”

Erhu said, “You can keep it for tomorrow.”

How dare you let the Empress Dowager eat overnight food? Little fellow, you're very bold—

Bai Xihe smiled. “Alright, I'll eat tomorrow.”

Just as Erhu left, Dahu came over.

He was holding a plate in his hand. Seeing the bun in her hand, Dahu instantly knew that Erhu had been here.

He didn't say anything and just handed the plate to Bai Xihe. “Aunt Bai, you can put the buns on the plate.”

Bai Xihe was worried that she could not finish three big meat buns. She could not help but feel that the little guy in front of him was too considerate.

“Thanks a lot.” She put the buns on the plate.

Dahu placed the plate on the bedside table and climbed into bed. He sat beside her with a serious expression, like a little adult.

“Aunt Bai, where are you from?”

Bai Xihe said, “I'm from Tongzhou.'

“Where's Tongzhou?” Dahu had never heard of this place.

Bai Xihe looked out of the window. “It's very, very far away. If you take the carriage and go west, you'll be there in about two months.”

Dahu nodded seriously. “That's so far.”

They had only been gone for a month from their hometown.

“How old are you?” Bai Xihe asked.

“Three years old,” Da Hu said.

Bai Xi had limited contact with children, but she felt that other three-year-old children did not seem to be so sensible and obedient.

How could she know that the three little fellows were not even three years old?

Dahu asked, “Aunt Bai, do you have a baby too?”

Su Yuniang had a baby, Little Wu had a younger daughter, and Little Madam Zhao had a son.

Dahu felt that those who were called Auntie all had babies.

Bai Xihe was stumped.

After a moment, she said softly, “I don't.”

It would never happen in this life.

Dahu thought for a moment and said generously, “1t's okay. I have two younger brothers. I can give you one.” Bai Xihe was speechless..

Chapter 333

Su Cheng stayed at the horse ranch for a few days and accepted the bombardment of the two big shots. Finally, today, he caught three moves from

Su Shuo.

They had made a bet before. If he caught three moves from Su Shuo, they would let him back for the night.

Su Shuo kept his promise.

Su Cheng rode his horse and couldn't wait to return to Pear Blossom Lane.

These days, he had not been a sandbag for the two of them for nothing. He had a salary of ten taels a day. If he performed well, it would be twenty taels. Otherwise, why would he be willing to stay there?

He had already earned a hundred taels!

He had bought a pair of real jasper flower beads for his daughter. He was going to give her a surprise later!

When he reached the entrance of the alley, he dismounted and led the horse to the door.

He looked inside first. After confirming that no one was in the front yard, he quietly led the horse in.

The horse snorted.

He hurriedly gestured with his index finger. “Shh shh shh—”

The foal was eating feed in the courtyard. When it saw Su Cheng return, it jumped excitedly in front of him.

Su Cheng was frightened, afraid that he would be discovered if he made too much noise. Then, the surprise would be gone.

Su Cheng whispered, “Be good, don't scream, don't scream.”

The foal thought to itself that it had never screamed in its life!

Su Cheng comforted the foal, tied up his horse, and tiptoed to the backyard.

Dahu had already come out of the room. The three little fellows were eating sausages in the kitchen.

Su Cheng looked into the kitchen. When he did not see his daughter, he thought that her daughter should be in her room.

Actually, Su Xiaoxiao was in the woodshed picking some easy-to-burn hay.

Su Cheng sneaked to the door and quietly pushed open a small crack to see if his daughter was there.

Bai Xihe sensed a commotion.

She had just experienced a dangerous situation and was abnormally sensitive.

She didn't know that Su Xiaoxiao's family had returned. After all, someone who was furtive didn't seem like a good person. Perhaps… that person had caught up…

Bai Xihe's heart skipped a beat. She felt for a stick by the bed.

Step by step, she moved behind the door and raised the stick with both hands.

When Su Cheng took out the white jasper flower beads and jumped into the house, Bai Xihe smashed it at him!

Su Cheng's body stiffened. In the next second, his eyes rolled back and he stuck out his tongue, falling to the ground.

He never expected that he, Su Cheng, would be beaten up one day.

It was really the karma of the heavens!

Dinner was steamed pork ribs, crucian carp tofu soup, lily egg soup, cured meat fried rice, and two stir-fried side dishes.

Su Ergou, Su Qi, and Su Yu had gone out and had yet to return. Physician Fu was picked up by the Old Marquis's guard.

The family sat at the dining table in the central room and ate.

Su Cheng's head was wrapped in gauze as he sat on the stool with a bruised face.

“What happened to Grandpa?” Xiaohu asked.

Su Xiaoxiao glanced at Su Cheng. “Let Grandpa say it himself.” Su Cheng cleared his throat and said gloomily, “Grandpa fell.”

He couldn't say that he had been hit by a woman. If word got out, would he still have his reputation as Bully Su?

Erhu couldn't bear to look at him. “You fell so badly.”

Dahu imparted his experience. “You have to wrap your head.”

Su Cheng was speechless.

Bai Xihe did not come to the table to eat. It was not that she had hit her savior's father. She was embarrassed… Alright, she was indeed a little embarrassed.

She was not deliberately avoiding the awkwardness.

It was mainly because she was stuffed after eating a big meat bun.

At the dining table, Su Xiaoxiao told Su Cheng about the shop. “…Sorry, I didn't discuss it with Dad first.”

Su Cheng waved his hand. “You can decide on your own business. I don't know… How much does the pharmacy cost?”

“6,000 taels.” Duang!

Su Cheng fell!

After dinner, Su Xiaoxiao returned to her room.

She didn't urge Bai Xihe to leave, nor did she ask what her plans were. She just sat down at the table, took a pen and paper, and began to draw.

Although the shop did not have to be modified, she planned to separate the two rooms into four small rooms. She also had to deal with the threshold.

“Thank you for today,” Bai Xihe said.

“Huh?” Su Xiaoxiao didn't understand.

“It was the same last time,” Bai Xihe said again.

Including that time in Peach Garden, Su Xiaoxiao had saved Bai Xihe twice.

Su Xiaoxiao looked up. “Oh, you're welcome.”

She continued to bury her head in the drawing.

Bai Xihe had been in the palace for many years. She had the noblest status, but she lived the life of a sparrow in a cage. She had long given up on everything.

However, this little girl who inadvertently entered her line of sight aroused her curiosity.

What kind of person was she?

Bai Xihe couldn't help thinking.

But soon, Bai Xihe realized that she shouldn't be curious about anyone.

After all—

She lowered her eyes and said softly, “Can you… send me to the White Cloud Tea House on Long Stream Street? I haven't left the palace for a long time and don't remember the way.”

Long Stream Street was not far from Pear Blossom Lane.

Su Xiaoxiao remembered that when she went to look at the shop today, she had indeed passed by a White Cloud Teahouse.

“Okay, wait a moment.”

Su Xiaoxiao went to Su Cheng to greet him and inform him that she was going to send the patient back.

Father Su was a little worried about his daughter, but the three little fellows were sleepy and Ergou was not at home. He had to watch them.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Don't worry, Dad. It's very close. It's on Long Stream Street.”

The security on Long Stream Street was good. Su Cheng often saw patrolling guards, so he didn't stop her and asked Su Xiaoxiao to return early.

Bai Xihe put on her hood.

Su Xiaoxiao paused and said, “Use my cloak.”

That person had seen Bai Xihe's cloak before. If he bumped into her, he would recognize it at a glance.

Bai Xihe changed into Su Xiaoxiao's cloak.

It was a little wide and smelled of clean soap. It was inexplicably reassuring.

Su Xiaoxiao sent Bai Xihe to the White Cloud Tea House.

Bai Xihe went to the second floor and entered the innermost room.

Princess Lingxi was anxious and finally saw that familiar face. Princess Lingxi felt relieved and went forward to bow with a choked voice. “Madam… Madam, are you alright? I was scared to death when I didn't see you!”

Bai Xihe's voice regained a trace of the coldness of the Grand Empress

Dowager. “There was an accident. It's been resolved.”

Princess Lingxi blamed herself and asked, “What accident? It's all Lingxi's fault for not protecting you well!”

Bai Xihe said, “It has nothing to do with you. I got separated myself.”

Princess Lingxi wiped her tears. “The palace door is about to close. Let me send you back to the palace.”

Bai Xihe looked through the window at the dark alley.

In the darkness, Su Xiaoxiao silently turned around and disappeared into the endless night.

Su Qi and Su Yu didn't send Su Ergou back until midnight. Su Ergou was exhausted and fell asleep.

Su Xiaoxiao said to Su Qi and Su Yu, “I still have to ask you to bring Ergou out for dinner tomorrow night. However, don't play so late.”

The two of them said in unison, “Are you not free tomorrow night too?”

“Yes.” Su Xiaoxiao nodded.

They could not freeload again.. The two of them were shocked!

Chapter 334

Su Cheng spent the night at home and woke up before dawn the next day.

Su Xiaoxiao went to the backyard and saw her youthful and handsome father practicing martial arts in the open space. She couldn't help but be puzzled. “Dad, why are you up so early?”

Su Cheng retracted his fist and scratched his head. “Ah, I've been up early these few days. I seem to be used to it. Sleep a little longer. I'll go out to buy breakfast later. You don't have to cook.”

Su Xiaoxiao smiled. “It's fine. I can't sleep anyway.”

Su Ergou knew that she might be very busy in the next few days, so he suspended the Directorate's order business.

She did not have to do much today. It did not take much effort.

She made mung bean cake and Ergou pancakes with meat floss filling.

Breakfast was millet porridge and chives egg pancakes.

During dinner, she talked about finding a craftsman.

“I want to partition the back room. I've drawn the blueprint. I need a lot of partitions. Let's find a carpenter first.”

Dahu suddenly looked up. “Mother, for the carpenter, you can look for Grandpa Liu!”

Su Xiaoxiao asked, “Which family is it?”

Dahu counted on his fingers. “Walk towards Master's house. Third house!”

Su Cheng said in surprise, “Aiya, Dahu knows how to count!”

“Xiaohu knows too!” Xiaohu said firmly.

Su Cheng was amused. “How much can Xiaohu count?”

Xiaohu said confidently, “100!”

Su Cheng smiled and said, “Xiaohu is so powerful! Tell Grandpa.”

Xiaohu began to count himself, Dahu, and Erhu. “One, two, three, a hundred!” Su Cheng was speechless.

Su Xiaoxiao was amused by Xiaohu. She smiled and replied to Dahu, “Alright,

I'll remember. Then I just need to find another blacksmith.”

Dahu looked up again. “You can look for Grandpa Zhang!”

Su Xiaoxiao was stunned. “Which family is Grandpa Zhang from?”

Dahu pointed to the west. “Go that way. First house.”

It was the house that was handed over to Scholar Street.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “I pass by his house every day and don't hear the sound of hammering. Are you sure he's a blacksmith?”

Dahu said with extreme certainty, “Grandpa Zhang knows how to forge. His iron shop isn't here.”

The little fellow knew a lot.

Thinking of something, Su Cheng pondered and said, “You and Physician Fu can't handle the business on your own. Do you have to hire a few servants?”

Dahu said crisply, “We can ask Grandma Zhou!”

Su Xiaoxiao's chubby body trembled. Who else did he know?

After breakfast, Su Cheng returned to the ranch to continue being a sandbag.

Before leaving, he secretly stuffed all his belongings into Su Xiaoxiao's book bag.

When Su Xiaoxiao saw the crumpled banknotes and silver coins of different sizes, her heart burned.

He didn't spend a single copper coin from the money she gave him.

Needless to say, the money he earned himself was all here.

In an instant, the banknotes and silver coins in her hand were as heavy as a thousand catties.

At this moment, she suddenly felt that getting rich was no longer enough. She wanted to make a name for herself in the capital and bring her father to the peak of her life.

Su Qi and Su Yu arrived late and there was no more breakfast. Fortunately, there were still snacks made by Su Xiaoxiao.

The two of them brought Su Ergou to the Imperial College happily.

Su Xiaoxiao sent the three little ones to Ling Yun. Then, Su Mo's carriage arrived.

Su Xiaoxiao remembered what happened yesterday and asked, “How did Wei Ting lure you away yesterday?”

Su MO said, “He said he has something to talk to you about.”

Su Xiaoxiao asked, “That's it?”

Su MO said seriously, “Compared to him breaking into your room in the middle of the night and letting him talk to you in the carriage at the entrance of the palace, I'm more at ease.”

Su Xiaoxiao raised her eyebrows. “Do you know… what car sex is?”

Su MO looked confused.

Su Xiaoxiao didn't tell Su MO about her chance encounter with the Grand Empress Dowager.

After she got out of the carriage, she went straight into the palace.

Princess Jingning came early today.

After two days of medication, the acne on her face was almost invisible. She was still wearing a veil. She was not good-looking and usually wore it.

However, from her smooth forehead, it was not difficult to see that she had recovered.

It had only been two days. This was too magical!

When Princess Jingning entered the classroom, she realized that the left table in the first row was already occupied.

Naturally, no one dared to occupy her seat. Su Xiaoxiao's seat was occupied.

Actually, the teacher did not specify a seat. Everyone sat casually, except for the two princesses.

Hu Biyun looked at Princess Jing Ning's much cleaner forehead and praised her father's medicine in her heart.

Therefore, she had some confidence in befriending Princess Jingning.

“Princess.”

She smiled and was about to get up to bow when she heard Princess Jingning say coldly, “Who allowed you to sit here?”

Hu Biyun was stunned.

Princess Jing Ning said coldly, “Get up!”

Hu Biyun lost face in public.

When Su Xiaoxiao walked into the classroom, the atmosphere was strange. Everyone looked at her with complicated expressions.

She didn't mind and sat beside Princess Jingning as usual.

Princess Jing Ning did not chase her away.

The young ladies looked at each other.

They were still guessing that Princess Jingning chased Hu Biyun away because she was in a bad mood today.

Now, they all understood that Princess Jingning was simply angry that Hu Biyun had snatched that country girl's position.

What was going on?

How did a country girl curry favor with Princess Jingning?

“Here, I just made it this morning. It's hot.” Su Xiaoxiao took out a box of snacks from her book bag.

An alluring fragrance instantly spread out. Everyone subconsciously swallowed.

Princess Jing Ning took the box. “Someone sat in your seat just now.”

Su Xiaoxiao: “Huh?”

Princess Jing Ning continued, “I chased her away.”

Su Xiaoxiao: “Oh.”

Princess Jingning thoughts were: I'm doting on you! Hurry up and be flattered!

There was a music class in the morning. Yesterday, Teacher Jiang had informed everyone in advance to bring the zither.

Su Xiaoxiao naturally brought one with her. It was Xiao Hu's.

She had asked the little guy's permission.

The table in the classroom was not long enough. The location of the class was chosen on the corridor outside.

The palace servants had already set up the zither table and futon.

Everyone took out the Luanzheng.

Princess Jingning and Princess Hui An's Luanzheng had origins. They were two of the three famous zhengs of the Zhou Country.

Qin Yanran's Luanzheng was not bad either.

Lin Ruyue said, “Miss Qin, your Zheng is so special… Could it be Liuying?”

Qin Yanran smiled. “It's Liuying.”

Liuying was a famous zither in the Western Jin Dynasty. Although she could not compare to what the two princesses had, it was outstanding among the young ladies.

Even Princess Lingxi's zither was inferior to Liu Ying.

On the other side, Su Xiaoxiao also took out the Luanzheng.

As soon as it was placed, someone burst out laughing.

Lin Ruyue asked gossipily, “Miss Li, Miss Wang, what are you laughing at?” The daughter of the Li family said, “Someone actually brought a broken zither.”

There was indeed a knife wound at the end of this zither. It was as if it had been slashed by a sharp blade.

Princess Jingning had gone to the toilet and was not there now.

Otherwise, everyone might not have the guts to ridicule her like this.

Qin Yanran looked at the zither and her eyes moved slightly. Soon, she shook her head and smiled. “This Luanzheng… looks a little like the legendary Nine Phoenix.”

The Nine Phoenix was the number one zither in the seven countries. Compared to it, the quality of the three famous zithers of the Zhou Country was akin to scamming people above their level.

Its owner was Nalan Yun, the zither master known as the Zither Immortal. He was the most talented zither child in hundreds of years. He became famous at the age of seven and was known across the seven countries at the age of ten.

It was rumored that he was from Northern Yan, and some said that he was from Western Jin.

His identity was mysterious, and his whereabouts were mysterious. Ever since he was invited to the royal family of Western Jin three years ago to present a song, he had disappeared.

Some said that he had gone into seclusion, while others said that he was dead.

In short, very few people had seen him, and not many had seen Nine Phoenix.

Qin Yanran had only seen Nine Phoenix in the portrait.

Lin Ruyue sneered. “You actually brought a fake zither over!” Everyone looked at Su Xiaoxiao strangely.

That's right. No one thought that this Luanzheng was real.

Chapter 335

Qin Yanran said earnestly, “Where did you buy the zither? Were you deceived?”

As soon as these words were spoken, everyone instantly imagined Su Xiaoxiao being greedy but ended up being scammed.

Lin Ruyue smiled mockingly. “Someone wanted to buy the Nine Phoenix, but she didn't know what was good for herself and bought a fake one. Didn't you think that the Nine Phoenix could be obtained casually?”

“What happened?”

Princess Jingning's voice suddenly appeared behind everyone.

The back of everyone's heads turned cold. They immediately stopped mocking Su Xiaoxiao and returned to their seats.

Princess Jingning sat down beside Su Xiaoxiao.

There were only two zither tables in the corridor. Princess Jing Ning and Su Xiaoxiao sat in the first row. When Princess Hui An arrived, there was only the second row left.

Princess Hui An didn't think that Su Xiaoxiao had snatched her seat. After all, one of the seats in the first row was definitely Jingning's. After all, Jingning was the legitimate princess.

As for the seat beside Jingning, hmph, she wouldn't sit there even if she was beaten to death!

She didn't really want to sit behind Jingning.

Qin Yanran helped her out at the right time. “Princess Hui An, come here and sit.”

She gave her seat in the third row to Princess Hui An.

She sat behind Princess Jingning.

She heard Princess Jingning instruct the little palace maid beside her, “Go to the storeroom and get a zither.”

Taozhi was about to agree when Su Xiaoxiao said, “There's no need. My zither is quite good.”

“What's so good about it? It's all broken.” Princess Jing Ning paused. She probably felt that the little girl did not want to trouble her, so she said, “I'll exchange with you.”

Qin Yanran suspected that she had heard wrongly.

What kind of bewitching potion did this little fat girl give Princess Jingning? She actually made Princess Jingning take the initiative to exchange her zither with her!

However, what was even more shocking was yet to come.

“No, thank you.”

That girl actually rejected her!

'Why?” Princess Jingning thought to herself. There was no need to be embarrassed. She was qualified to be arrogant because of her favor.

Su Xiaoxiao said bluntly, “1 don't know if Xiaohu agrees to you touching his zither.”

Princess Jingning was speechless.

The teacher of the music class was a great musician from the palace. His surname was Gao, and he was proficient in music. He was good at the zither, luan zither, and flute. He was an outstanding teacher.

He also noticed Su Xiaoxiao's Luanzheng.

However, like everyone present, he had never seen the real Nine Phoenix, but he had seen many imitation zithers.

This imitation was very clumsy. It was old and tattered, and even the paint had fallen off. There was also a knife mark on the end of the zither. It could not be more fake.

Master Gao snorted coldly and did not want to look at her anymore.

Most of the daughters of the palace school had some foundation in music. For example, Qin Yanran was good at the zither, Hu Biyun was good at the luan zither, Miss Wang was good at the flute, and so on. However, the palace academy was mainly for the two princesses. The others were only accompanying students.

If the princesses did not know music, they had to learn from the beginning.

Teacher Gao started with the structure of the Luanzheng and the five notes of the pentatonic scale.

Princess Hui An was confused. The music she played was comparable to Xiaohu's.

She had inherited Consort Xian's beauty and brains.

Princess Jingning was also a beginner in Luan Zheng, but the comprehension she displayed instkilled her idiot of a sister.

Qin Yanran had the foundation of the zither and learned it quite quickly.

The two students that Master Gao was most satisfied with were Qin Yanran and Princess Jingning.

Princess Hui An was an existence that gave Master Gao a headache, but she was a princess, so he had no choice but to bite the bullet and teach her.

Next was Leng Zhiruo. Her Luanzheng was also a mess.

“Do you know how to do it?” Princess Jingning asked Su Xiaoxiao.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Yes.”

Princess Jing Ning looked at her suspiciously. 'Really? Why do I think you don't?'

Today, there were most theories and they did not study music scores seriously. They were at the stage where everyone played the same tune when Teacher Gao instructed.

The zither music mixed together and was not obvious for a moment. “Is the Grand Empress Dowager still healthy?”

While resting, Su Xiaoxiao suddenly asked Princess Jingning.

Princess Jing Ning looked at her in confusion. “Why are you suddenly asking about the Grand Empress Dowager?”

Su Xiaoxiao couldn't say that she was here to confirm if the Grand Empress Dowager had returned to the palace safely last night.

She told her what had happened in the peach garden during the day.

Hearing that there were poisonous snakes, Princess Jingning frowned.

She had grown up in the palace since she was young. How could she be brainless? She was not an idiot like Hui An.

Someone was clearly plotting against the Grand Empress Dowager.

“Actually… I've heard some rumors…” Princess Jingning looked around. The young ladies who had gone to the toilet together returned one after another.

Princess Jingning did not continue. She only said, “I saw her in the pavilion this morning. She looks fine. The old lady shouldn't be too frightened.”

This was a respectful address, but the Grand Empress Dowager was actually a few years younger than the Empress.

Su Xiaoxiao stroked the strings. “Oh.”

In the afternoon, it was Master Jiang's class. The first class was the Analects of Confucius, and the second class was the Classic of Poems.

It was another ordinary day.

After school, Su MO came to pick Su Xiaoxiao up.

Seeing that the Eldest Young Master only had eyes for a little girl from the countryside, the daughters were extremely jealous.

Hu Biyun was also very jealous.

The Hu family was not a very prominent family. It was only with the recommendation of the Third Prince that the Hu family obtained a spot to participate in the selection.

She lived up to everyone's expectations and got into the palace academy. Her father also lived up to everyone's expectations and became the Court Commissioner of the Imperial Hospital. Recently, the betrothal candidates had almost broken through the threshold of the Hu family.

However, she paid heed to none of those young masters.

Of course, she also understood that a family like the Marquis of Zhenbei's Estate was not something the Hu family could reach.

Unless… Su MO took a fancy to her himself.

Hu Biyun suddenly regretted falling out with Su Xiaoxiao yesterday. If she roped her in, could she— Su Mo's carriage left.

The curtain was lifted by the wind.

Hu Biyun saw the man in the clouds handing a jar of walnuts to the little fat girl with a smile in his eyes.

After arriving home, Su Xiaoxiao followed Dahu's instructions and went to the third house east.

The courtyard door was open.

Su Xiaoxiao stood outside the door and asked, “Excuse me, is anyone there?”

A man about Su Cheng's age yawned and slowly walked out. “Who are you looking for?”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “I'm looking for Uncle Liu.” “Ah, you're Dahu's mother, right?”

The other party seemed to have woken up instantly.

Su Xiaoxiao nodded. “…I am.”

The other party smiled. “I'm Liu Sihe. You can call me Old Liu! Are you looking for a carpenter?”

Su Xiaoxiao was stunned. “Huh?”

Liu Sihe smiled and said, “Dahu came over at noon to greet me!”

Su Xiaoxiao thought that the child was going to become a demon at socializing!

Su Xiaoxiao said, “I need to make a plaque. In addition, I want to build some furniture and two wooden walls.”

Liu Sihe said professionally, “Do you have blueprints for the furniture and wooden walls?”

“Yes.” Su Xiaoxiao took out a folded blueprint from her pouch, unfolded it, and handed it to him..

Chapter 336

Su Xiaoxiao didn't like to talk nonsense. She liked to interact with such you… draw these yourself?”

“Yes,” Su Xiaoxiao said.

Liu Sihe praised, “What a novel design. I heard that you're opening a medical center. What is the plaque going to say?”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “The Number One Hall in the World.”

Liu Sihe remarked to himself, “Girl, you're very arrogant.'

Liu Sihe was a straightforward and efficient person. He did not flatter himself or exchange unnecessary pleasantries.

The conversation between the two sides lasted less than 15 minutes. “I've remembered everything you said. Is there anything else you want?”

“That's all.” Su Xiaoxiao said, “Will it be completed in a few days?”

“Seven days.”

“Only seven days?”

This was a lot of things.

Liu Sihe smiled and said, “If I'm not done in seven days, I won't charge you! Go ahead!”

Su Xiaoxiao didn't like to talk nonsense. She liked to interact with such no-nonsense people.

In addition, the price Liu Sihe offered was far lower than her budget, saving her a lot of expenses.

After leaving the Liu family, she went to the house that was connected to Scholar Street in the west.

Grandpa Zhang, whom Dahu was talking about was a muscular blacksmith called Zhang Erzhu. He was a few years older than Father Su and was a little serious.

It was so cold but he was only wearing a linen shirt; his thick arms were exposed to the air.

Su Xiaoxiao's first reaction was: Are all blacksmiths so strong these days?

When Su Xiaoxiao explained her intentions, Zhang Erzhu was not shocked.

This was because Dahu had also come to greet him.

“I want to make some cutting tools.” Su Xiaoxiao handed him the blueprint. “I heard that the capital has strict control over iron tools. I want to make a lot of these cutting tools. Should I report it to the authorities?”

“No need,” Zhang Erzhu said calmly. “I've never made these types of knives before. I have to remodel them. You can come back ten days later to take them.”

Su Xiaoxiao asked, “How much deposit do I need to pay first?”

“There's no need to pay the deposit.” Zhang Erzhu was also extremely straightforward. “As for how much it is, we won't know until we're done, but it shouldn't be more than five taels.”

Five taels?

It had to be known that other than salt, the Imperial Court had always controlled iron. Iron was very expensive in ancient times.

“Are you sure?”

Seeing Su Xiaoxiao's shocked expression, Zhang Erzhu thought for a moment and said, “Two taels then.”

Su Xiaoxiao was dumbfounded.

He was cutting his own price making it impossible for the other party to do so…

Su Xiaoxiao went to Old Madam Zhou's house last.

She was next door to her house. The reason he put her last was that this business might take the longest.

“It's Dahu's mother, right?” Old Madam Zhou invited Su Xiaoxiao into the central room with a smile and poured a cup of hot tea.

Su Xiaoxiao suddenly felt that she was famous in the alley…

Old Madam Zhou was a little old. The neighbors in the alley seemed to call her Old Madam Zhou regardless of seniority.

“What kind do you want to choose? What kind of work do you do?” Old Madam Zhou asked with a smile.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “I want a coachman and four medicinal assistants. It's best if there are two female medicinal assistants. It doesn't matter if they know medicine or not. I can teach them. In addition, I need a chef and a long-term cleaner. ”

Old Madam Zhou said, “Everything else is fine, but the female medicine assistants… ”

In the Great Zhou, there were very few women who practiced medicine. When girls went out to work, they were mostly maidservants and embroiderers… She said, “I'll try. Come to my place tomorrow morning to take a look.”

The next day, Su Xiaoxiao came to Old Madam Zhou's house early in the morning.

Hearing Old Madam Zhou's tone yesterday, she would only try and might not be able to find all of them. However, when Su Xiaoxiao looked at the courtyard full of men, women, and children, she suddenly suspected that Old Madam Zhou had some misunderstanding about the concept of “trying”.

Among this group of people, Old Madam Zhou recommended a coachman, Ah Zhong. He was in his twenties and looked handsome.

Old Madam Zhou said, “Although he's young, he's quite experienced and very familiar with the streets and alleys of the capital.”

Su Xiaoxiao asked Ah Zhong a few questions. The young man was neither arrogant nor impatient. He spoke clearly and was strong enough.

When it came to Old Madam Zhou, the price was not cheap.

A coachman was five taels. This was the introduction fee for Old Madam Zhou. As for the coachman's salary, Su Xiaoxiao would have to settle it with the coachman.

Su Xiaoxiao pinched her purse and her heart ached.

The medicine boy was a smart young man called Xiao Wei, who was 17 years old. He had been a shop assistant in another medicine shop in the past and knew a few things about herbs.

Old Madam Zhou said, “Brother Wei, you'll follow Madam in the future.” Hearing this “Brother Wei”, Su Xiaoxiao almost choked on her tea.

Su Xiaoxiao didn't choose another male medicine boy, but the two girls caught her eye.

One was a 12-year-old girl called Ying'er. She had a round face and a small canine tooth on both sides when she smiled. There were freckles on her cheeks. She was a spirited girl.

The other was Du Juan, who was two years older than Ying'er. She had an oval face, delicate eyebrows, and could read.

Old Madam Zhou said, “She was originally a young lady from an official's family. Her family committed a crime and was bought by the Education Bureau. She's young and the Education Bureau is raising her.”

In other words, in a year or two, she would have to sell herself to receive customers.

Su Xiaoxiao came to her and asked calmly, “You used to be the daughter of an official. If I buy you, would you be able to bear with the suffering of a servant?”

Du Juan knelt down and kowtowed. “Madam, I was a concubine's daughter and am not favored at home. As long as you don't let me become a prostitute, I'm willing to be your slave!”

Su Xiaoxiao asked Brother Wei, Ying'er, and Du Juan about the price.

Old Madam Zhou stretched out her finger. Su Xiaoxiao asked, “Ten taels?” Old Madam Zhou said, “A hundred taels.”

This granny was a little dark…

However, soon, Su Xiaoxiao understood why they were more expensive than Ah Zhong.

They were slaves and had to sign a death contract. If they wanted to leave in the future, they had to redeem themselves from Su Xiaoxiao.

Moreover, their salary was lower than the others. She could not even give it to them.

The chef and the cleaner were a middle-aged couple. They also cost ten taels each.

These ten taels bought three years of their work, just like Ah Zhong.

The next few days were calm. Su Xiaoxiao went to school and did the snack business of the directorate.

Seven days later, Liu Sihe was done.

Su Xiaoxiao went to look at the plaque he had made. It was black with gold words and looked dignified and domineering. It was even more perfect than Su Xiaoxiao had imagined.

However, it seemed a little heavy. It was unknown what wood it was made of.

Liu Sihe saw the little girl looking at the plaque left and right and thought that she was worried about the quality of the plaque.

He patted his chest and said, “Don't worry, I'll guarantee that it won't rot for a hundred years!”

Su Xiaoxiao thought, What wood won't rot for a hundred years… It can't be golden cedar…

She was thinking too much. How could a small carpenter in the neighborhood have such expensive wood?

Liu Sihe called a few brothers and moved the furniture and wooden boards to the medical center. What needed to be placed was placed and what needed to be installed was installed. In the afternoon, the shop changed drastically.

The plaque would be hung up on the day of the opening. Su Xiaoxiao kept it in the accounts room first.

Two days later, Zhang Erzhu also made the tools. He really only accepted two taels from Su Xiaoxiao.

Physician Fu found someone to calculate an auspicious day—the 18th of this month was suitable for opening.

However, the night before the opening, something happened to the hall..

Chapter 337

Because they were opening the next day, everyone packed at the medical center for the entire day until late at night. Just as they were about to close, a woman came over with a man in his early twenties.

“Doctor! Doctor! Save my son!”

Physician Fu had just finished checking the medicine cabinet when he heard

Madam's call. He hurriedly walked over. “Let me take a look!”

The woman looked at her injured son and choked. “I heard that your Benevolence Hall's medical skills are brilliant, so I came over. Doctor, you must treat my son!”

If Su Xiaoxiao or Manager Sun were here, they would treat the patient first. No matter if they were from the Benevolent Hall or not, they did not hear those words!

However, Physician Fu was an honest person. When he heard this, he said,

“Benevolence Hall is next door. We just opened…”

The woman interrupted him. “What? You're not from Benevolence Hall?”

She left and looked at the plaque. The plaque was not hung yet, but it was not Benevolence Hall.

Annoyed, she helped her injured son away.

“Sigh…” Physician Fu wanted to remind her that the patient was seriously injured and not to drag him so forcefully.

However, the woman had already left without looking back.

“What happened?” Su Xiaoxiao walked over from the backyard with a dustpan of dried herbs.

Physician Fu said, “A patient just came to look for Benevolence Hall and found us. I think he's injured.”

Benevolence Hall was already closed. The doctor was about to get into the carriage when the woman quickly stopped him.

“Doctor! You're a doctor of the Benevolence Hall, right? Save my son! My son fell from the carriage! He can't move his arm!”

This doctor was also capable. He was from the side branch of the Hu family business and was chosen to come to the main branch because of his good medical skills. He was a few years older than Physician Fu and had a little beard. He looked older and more trustworthy.

The coachman said, “If it's not serious, come back tomorrow…

The woman scolded, “How is it not serious? Can't you see that my son can't move his arm?”

Her voice attracted the vendors and passersby on the street.

Everyone surrounded them curiously.

Doctor Hu frowned and controlled his temper. He said in a broad tone,

“Madam, calm down and let me take a look.”

With that, he got off the footstool.

Only then did the woman's expression improve. “Thank you, Doctor.”

Doctor Hu asked the coachman to carry the oil lamp while he treated the other party on the spot.

He asked, “Where are you feeling unwell?”

The man said, “I fell off the carriage. My entire body hurts. I can't move my arm. ”

Doctor Hu gently held his right arm. “Is it this arm?”

The woman was shocked. “Doctor, be gentle!”

Doctor Hu smiled. “I know what to do.”

There were more and more onlookers.

Doctor Hu shook his right arm slightly. “You still can't move?”

“I can't move.”

“Where else does it hurt?”

“It hurts everywhere.”

“What about the head?”

“My head doesn't hurt.”

looked at his clothes. They were still intact. Other than a scratch on the back of his hand, there was no other bleeding.

Doctor Hu said gently, “Your arm is dislocated. I'll reattach it for you. It will hurt a little. Bear with it.”

When the man heard that it would hurt, he was immediately afraid.

Doctor Hu patiently comforted him. “Don't be afraid. It won't be long.”

The man turned pale with fear.

Doctor Hu pressed his shoulder with one hand and held his arm with the other. He shook it twice. Just as the man's heart was almost in his throat, he connected it back!

The man shouted.

He thought it would hurt, but it didn't.

He was stunned. “Aye?”

Doctor Hu smiled and said, “See if you can move?”

The man tried to move. “Eh? I can move it! My arm can move! Mother! I can really move! Hiss—”

He moved a few times and suddenly gasped. “It hurts, it still hurts a little.”

The woman was worried again. “Doctor… this is…”

smiled and said, “Don't worry, it's normal for there to be a slight pain. After recovering, you have to recuperate for half a month. Try not to move your arm during this half a month.”

The woman was relieved.

The surrounding citizens clicked their tongues in praise.

“As expected of Benevolence Hall. My next-door neighbor was in the same situation as him. He has been in pain for a few months! He hasn't recovered yet! He even has some illnesses!”

“Why didn't you find a doctor?”

“I did! That doctor can't do it. If he came to Benevolence Hall, he wouldn't have to suffer that sin!”

“But of course, the Hu family owns the Benevolence Hall. The Hu family has a Court Commissioner!”

“I'll come to Benevolence Hall to treat my illness in the future.”

“Let's talk about it when you can afford it!”

This was the truth. Benevolence Hall was not a place where Bodhisattvas operated. There was a price to pay for saving the dying and helping the injured. The doctors in the hall had brilliant medical skills, and the consultation fee was more expensive than that of other medical centers.

This woman was clearly not short of money. She immediately took out a silver ingot and handed it to Doctor Hu.

did not reach out to take it. The coachman took it.

“Thank you, doctor! Thank you, doctor!” The woman thanked him repeatedly and pulled her son's hand to leave.

Suddenly, a cold voice stopped her. “Wait, you can't leave.”

Everyone turned around.

The woman looked at the little fat girl walking over from behind the crowd and asked, “Who are you?”

Physician Fu also squeezed out.

The woman recognized him. “It's you! You're from next door…”

The old pharmacy next door closed down and a new pharmacy came. Many commoners who often walked this street knew.

“What do you want?” the woman asked angrily.

Su Xiaoxiao looked at her son and said to her, “Your son's injuries are very serious and need resuscitation.”

The woman's face darkened. “My son is fine. What nonsense are you talking about?”

Su Xiaoxiao said seriously, “If we don't save him, he won't survive tonight.”

The woman said angrily, “You, you, you… what are you saying? You're cursing my son! Are you blind? Can't you see that my son is lively? The doctor of the Benevolence Hall has already treated my son's injuries! I think you're running an illegal shop! You're here to smash his signboard!”

Doctor Hut s expression turned ugly.

He looked at Su Xiaoxiao and said coldly, “If you want to snatch business, you can't do it like this. This young master's arm has already been reinstated. Don't spread rumors here.”

A peddler chuckled and said, “The doctor of the Benevolence Hall has already said that he's been cured. Where did they get the guts to question the medical skills of the Benevolence Hall?”

Another peddler mocked, “He just wants to cheat some money!”

The woman snorted. “I won't fall for a black-hearted pharmacy like yours!”

As soon as she finished speaking, her son raised his hand to his chest and fell down with a pained expression.

Everyone gasped!

“Son!” the woman screamed.

Doctor Hu also had a look of disbelief.

It was just a dislocation and his head was not injured.. Why was this happening?

Chapter 338

At first, everyone was speaking up for the Benevolent Heart Hall. No one expected the situation to take a turn for the worse. Everyone was dumbfounded.

The woman sat on the ground and looked at her son, who was in pain, helplessly. Her eyes were red as she complained, “Doctor! Didn't you say that my son is fine? How did he become like this?”

After all, Doctor Hu had many years of medical experience. He quickly calmed down and quickly recalled the diagnosis and treatment process for the other party.

He was sure that he had done nothing wrong.

The woman panicked and cried at Doctor Hu, “Why are you standing there?

Come and save my son!”

Doctor Hu also wanted to save him, but he could not!

At this moment, Su Xiaoxiao strode over and said calmly to the woman,

“Madam, please make way. Your son's situation is very critical.”

The woman couldn't scold Su Xiaoxiao anymore. She looked at Physician Fu in fear. “What… what happened to my son?”

She thought that Physician Fu was the real doctor.

Physician Fu frowned and said, “It should be internal injuries.”

“Madam?” Su Xiaoxiao reminded her again.

The woman was at a loss. She hoped that the doctor of the Benevolence Hall would treat her son, but the doctor of the Benevolence Hall stood there as if he had become stupid.

Was she really going to hand her son's life to an unknown doctor?

Su Xiaoxiao had already put on her gloves and said seriously, “If you don't move away, your son's situation would really be hopeless!”

The woman was intimidated by a little girl's aura and obediently moved aside.

Su Xiaoxiao knelt down beside the patient.

The woman suddenly grabbed Su Xiaoxiao's wrist. “Wait, why is it you? Isn't he here to save my son?”

Physician Fu was stunned.

How could he explain that Miss Su's medical skills were better than his?

Su Xiaoxiao said indifferently, “There's no need for my master to treat such a small illness.”

“What? Is this girl actually a physician?”

“Is there really a physician taking in a female disciple these days?”

“Can women treat illnesses? What medical center? I won't go to their place to treat illnesses in the future!”

The people of Great Zhou were not too conservative, but they were not as open as the the people of Western Jin. After all, Western Jin had an empress, and the current crown prince was also a princess.

In Great Zhou, it was extremely rare for women to practice medicine, and their status was very low. The most common profession for a woman was the midwife.

Wasn't letting a midwife save a critical patient a joke?

Doctor Hu flicked his sleeves angrily. “You're really too ridiculous!”

“Why don't you treat it?” Physician Fu mocked.

He was very gentle, but after Doctor Hu provoked Miss Su, he was not so easy to talk to.

“Move away,” Su Xiaoxiao said to the woman.

It was not loud, but the woman's heart skipped a beat.

She retracted her hand resentfully.

Su Xiaoxiao unbuttoned the other party's clothes and lowered her head to listen to him. Her fingertips walked across his ribs.

A girl took off a man's clothes in public and stuck to his body…

Shameless!

This woman could not be married off!

Su Xiaoxiao didn't care about everyone's strange gazes. She flipped her fingers took out a disposable needle, and stabbed it into the other party's chest!

“Ah—” The woman did not expect her to stab her son with a needle.

What was she doing?

Was it murder?!

A vendor shouted, “Heavens! Murder!”

The woman pounced at Su Xiaoxiao. Physician Fu strode forward and stopped the woman.

The woman struggled on the ground and punched and kicked Physician Fu.

“You killed someone! You killed someone! Someone! Help! Murder!”

“What nonsense!”

Doctor Hu also rushed over to stop Su Xiaoxiao.

At this moment, the man on the ground who could not breathe suddenly took a deep breath.

Then, he began to breathe heavily and opened his tired eyes.

A passerby pointed at the man and shouted, “Look! He's alive!”

Everyone looked at the man on the ground and saw that the man who had lost consciousness just now had really woken up.

Doctor Hu was stunned.

This girl… used a method to kill someone. How did she wake him up?

Su Xiaoxiao pinched the needle with one hand and pressed his shoulder with the other. “Don't be agitated and don't move.”

The man looked at Su Xiaoxiao with cold sweat.

He knew better than anyone that he was really about to die just now…

The woman didn't hear her. She was immersed in her fierce resistance. “You killed my son! You killed my son… beasts… you bastards…”

A young man couldn't stand it anymore and shouted at her, “Auntie! Your son is awake! ”

“My son… what?” The woman was stunned and craned her neck to look behind Physician Fu.

His son happened to look at her.

Their eyes met.

The woman was excited. “Son…”

Su Xiaoxiao pulled out the needle and said to the man, “One of your ribs is broken and injured your lungs, causing a pneumothorax. The danger of the first step has been resolved, but you still need follow-up treatment to prevent your condition from worsening.”

The man nodded slightly.

Su Xiaoxiao continued, “Whether you stay in Benevolence Hall for treatment or go to our Number One Hall is up to you.”

The man was about to speak weakly when Doctor Hu said first, “Nonsense! Why didn't he say that he had a fracture?”

Su Xiaoxiao said coldly, “He said that his entire body hurt. Didn't you hear him?”

Everyone's discomfort and sensitivity to pain were different. Under the influence of many injuries and psychological factors, they might not be able to accurately determine the pain point.

Such a situation was rare, but it was not impossible.

If the doctor was more careful, he would be able to discover it after unbuttoning his clothes and touching his bones carefully.

Doctor Hu choked. “He, he fell from the carriage. Of course, he hurt all over! His situation at that time was not like what you said! If he really broke his bones and stabbed his lungs, he would not have been able to last until here!” He realized that this was his only chance to salvage his reputation.

As long as he proved that this girl's diagnosis was wrong and deliberately emphasized the patient's condition, they would be labeled a scam!

Su Xiaoxiao took off her gloves indifferently. “You're right. His condition at that time was indeed not so bad. At first, he only had a broken rib, and you didn't notice it in time. You thought that he was injured by a collision, so it's normal for it to hurt. When you restored his right arm, you caused second damage to his ribs, so you stabbed his lungs and caused the pneumothorax. This was also the reason why he suddenly couldn't breathe and fell to the ground.”

If someone wanted to court death, there was no stopping them.

Everyone was enlightened. So that was how it was!

The dignified Benevolence Hall had actually almost caused someone to die. If not for this little fat girl, the consequences would be unimaginable! Doctor Hu felt like he had been hit by a stick, and his head buzzed.

Why did he have to ask?

Chapter 339

The surrounding commoners looked at Su Xiaoxiao. Just now, they had been questioning her and had nothing good to say. Was this a slap in the face? “No wonder she wanted to stab him just now. She was giving him blood.”

“In that case, the young lady's medical skills are quite brilliant.”

“What's their medical center called again?”

“Didn't you say that you would never go to their place to get treatment?”

“Ahem, did I say that?”

The woman also reacted. She knew it. Her son had been fine on the way here. He could stand and walk, but he could not move his arm. However, after being treated by this useless doctor, he immediately fell to the ground and fainted, almost suffocating…

The woman was furious and scratched at Doctor Hu. “You harmed my son!”

Doctor Hu hurriedly dodged. “I didn't! She was talking nonsense! Don't be deceived by her! I…”

The woman scratched at him again!

Thinking that he had almost killed her son, the woman was merciless.

Doctor Hu fled.

Su Xiaoxiao pressed the bleeding point of the patient's wound. “Have you thought about it?”

The man asked weakly, “What's your surname?”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “My surname is Su.”

The man said softly, “Physician Su, please treat me.”

Su Xiaoxiao nodded and looked at the woman who was chasing after her. “Madam?”

“Damn it! Don't let me see you again!”

The woman put her shoes back on and turned to her son, looking at Su Xiaoxiao awkwardly.

She had scolded her so fiercely just now and felt a little embarrassed now.

Su Xiaoxiao didn't let her off. She said calmly, “If Madam has no objections, I'll get someone to carry your son in.”

The woman said resentfully, “Ah, yes, yes, thank you.”

On the other side, Little Weizi and Chef Cao had already prepared the stretcher. Seeing Su Xiaoxiao nod at the two of them, the two of them quickly carried the stretcher over.

Although they had not opened for business for the past few days, Su Xiaoxiao would teach everyone the most basic first aid measures every night. Because there were not enough people, Chef Cao and his wife, Madam Yang, were no exception.

The two of them took one end each.

Little Weizi: “One, two, three, go!”

The two of them quickly carried him up.

No one had ever seen such a… board. For a moment, it was strange.

“It's not a board. Is it made of cloth?” “It seems a little harder than a cloth.”

“There are quite a lot of good things.”

Everyone spoke until Su Xiaoxiao and the others entered Number One Hall.

Su Xiaoxiao asked Little Weizi and Chef Cao to carry him to the room on the first floor.

The furnishings in the wing were simple. Two narrow beds, two nightstands, two stools, a large closet, and a few rows of strange hanging rods at the top. Gone.

The woman looked around the room strangely and thought to herself that this new medical center was really poor. She could not even afford decent furniture, and the bed was so small…

Ying'er and Du Juan had already made the two beds.

Little Weizi and Chef Cao carried him to a bed.

The next question was, how were they going to move him to the bed with the stretcher? After all, Ah Zhong was not around tonight…

Physician Fu immediately said, “I'll do it. Du Juan, give me a hand.”

“There's no need.” Su Xiaoxiao walked forward and placed the patient on the bed.

The man was speechless.

His mother was speechless.

Everyone was speechless.

On the other hand, after Doctor Hu was scratched and fled into the did not immediately return to his residence. Instead, he went to the Hu fa and explained what had happened today.

Their Benevolence Hall had been operating in the capital for so many yea had never caused any trouble. If something really happened, they had to t of a way to resolve it in time.

Tonight's matter was strange. In front of so many commoners, it had the reputation of Benevolence Hall.

Hu Jiusheng and his brother, Hu Haitao, sat at the head of the reception h

Hu Haitao was the boss of Benevolence Hall, but everyone knew very well

Hu Jiusheng was the real boss.

Hu Jiusheng's son, Hu Hui, was also there.

The Hu family had joined the Jing family. With the connections of the Jim family, Hu Hui had private interactions with Xiao Zhonghua.

Doctor Hu exaggerated the incident. He glossed over what the patient sai( about being in pain all over, and added that he had asked him if he had ch pain.

“He said it didn't hurt. Who would have thought?”

Doctor Hu looked aggrieved. “He couldn't describe his condition clearly and delayed my diagnosis. I said that I would go to the Benevolence Hall to take a closer look at him. They said that it was too late and that they had to treat him quickly so that they could go home…”

Hu Jiusheng and Hu Haitao frowned.

Hu Jiusheng asked, “You said that the doctor from the pharmacy next door saved him?”

Doctor Hu cleared his throat and said, “A… medical woman. She's chubby and strong. She might have injured him!”

Hu Hui asked, “Didn't you say that the patient had fallen to the ground first before the people from the medical center next door approached?”

Doctor Hu choked.

The Hu family was not stupid. They were in public. Unless the neighboring pharmacy wanted to be jailed, how could they injure someone on the streets to treat him?

This was a major mistake. Regardless of whether the patient had clearly described his condition, it was negligent of him to miss a diagnosis and misdiagnose, causing a second injury.

“You just said that she was fat…” Hu Hui thought of the day he rode the pleasure boat to the lake with the Third Prince, Young Marquis Jing, and Princess Hui An. He had also encountered a little fat girl with brilliant medical skills.

“Could it be her?”

Hu Hui muttered.

Hu Jiusheng looked at his son. “Hui'er, who do you think it is?”

Hu Hui said to his father, “I mentioned it to Father. Last time, a girl saved someone who was drowning on the pleasure boat. The patient lost his pulse for a while, so she pressed it a few times and woke him up! But isn't she a maidservant of the Wei family? Why is she in the pharmacy next door? Could it be that… the Wei family owns the pharmacy next door?” Hu Jiusheng called the family steward over. “Go investigate.”

The steward agreed. “Yes, Master.”

In the medical center, Su Xiaoxiao treated the patient's injuries and let him take the medicine. The patient did not feel so uncomfortable and fell asleep.

Su Xiaoxiao looked at the sleeping patient. “Someone has to keep an eye on him tonight. ”

“I'll watch,” Little Weizi said.

Su Xiaoxiao said to the woman beside the bed, “Madam, your son needs to be observed at the medical center for a night. He can only go back tomorrow after the situation stabilizes.”

The woman had seen her son saved by her with her own eyes and changed her opinion of her a lot. How could she have any objections?

She held Su Xiaoxiao's hand and said excitedly, “Doctor, go ahead and treat him.. It's fine if he stays for ten days to half a month! My son lives here!”

Chapter 340

Su Xiaoxiao and Physician Fu left the room.

It was not convenient for Physician Fu to ask in front of the patient. Now that they were the only ones left in the hall, he voiced his doubts. “How did you tell that his ribs were broken?”

Su Xiaoxiao recalled, “When the doctor of Benevolence Hall asked him where he hurt? Although he said that he hurt all over, his hand subconsciously touched his chest.”

Physician Fu asked, “So you determined that his chest was fractured?”

Su Xiaoxiao shook her head slightly. “It's difficult to conclude based on this alone. After the doctor of Benevolence Hall reattached his arm, he showed shallow and fast breathing. Shallow and fast breathing is commonly seen in cases of asthma, pneumonia, chest fluid, and pneumothorax. Coupled with my previous observation of him, I concluded that he had a pneumothorax, and it's very likely that his ribs were broken and his lungs were injured.” Hearing this, Physician Fu was filled with admiration.

He sighed. “It was so noisy. You actually recognized his breathing?”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “It's not based on listening, but on observation. The length and depth of everyone's breathing can be determined by the rise and fall of their chest and abdominal cavity, as well as their body language.”

This was really… observant.

Of course, such a thing had to be determined by talent. Some doctors might not have Miss Su's detailed and precise insight after practicing medicine for ten or twenty years.

Chef Cao made supper and called everyone up to eat.

After working for half the night, everyone was indeed a little hungry.

Su Xiaoxiao first went to see the three little ones sleeping soundly in Madam Yang's room.

The three little ones looked for her at night. No one could coax them, so she didn't go back, and neither did they.

“It's been hard on you,” Su Xiaoxiao said to Madam Yang.

Madam Yang hurriedly said, “Look at what Boss is saying. I didn't do anything. The three children are very obedient.”

“That's because they're not familiar with you yet…”

When there were more familiar in the future, she would deeply experience the vigorous energy of the three little ones.

Chef Cao came over and asked Su Xiaoxiao, “Boss, should we send some to that madam?”

Su Xiaoxiao nodded. “Go ask her if she wants it.

“Aye!”

Chef Cao went.

That madam was in a worse state than them. She had not eaten dinner and was already starving. When she heard that there was food, she was not picky and asked the chef to bring her a bowl.

Chef Cao made chicken soup noodles and vegetable balls. They were both easy to digest.

Su Xiaoxiao asked Ying'er to call Little Weizi over.

Everyone gathered around the table for supper.

To be honest, just two hours ago, they were worried if their medical center had any business.

After all, the Benevolence Hall was next door. Wasn't opening their shop beside it courting death?

Unexpectedly, before they opened, the first customer came.

Although the patient was at the entrance to Benevolence Hall, it was their Number One Hall that saved the patient!

“Boss is so awesome!” Ying'er said with a smile.

Su Xiaoxiao was the boss, and Physician Fu was the second boss and Su Xiaoxiao's master.

This was their identity to the outside world.

Su Xiaoxiao teased her. “You're not panicking anymore?”

Ying'er chuckled. “Not anymore!”

The boss was very powerful. Their medical center would definitely be able to treat many patients in the future!

Su Xiaoxiao was going to the Palace School the next day. The opening and subsequent treatment of the patient were handed over to Physician Fu.

Ah Zhong was not around, so Little Weizi helped Su Xiaoxiao carry the children back.

After arriving home, Su Xiaoxiao went to Su Ergou's room to take a look before returning to her room to sleep.

She entered the pharmacy again.

Su Xiaoxiao had almost figured out the pattern. The pharmacy would reward her once at the end of the month. If she treated a critical patient, the pharmacy would also reward her once.

The reward was occasionally delayed, but it would not exceed three days.

This time, it was a bottle of digestive enzymes developed by the base.

This medicine… seemed a little useless…

The next morning was Teacher Jiang's class.

In her previous life, it was not a problem for her to stay up for three days and three nights, but who asked this body to not sleep well?

She endured the first lesson muddle-headedly. During class, she rested her forehead on the table and slept for a while, but she could not wake up.

When Master Jiang returned to the classroom and saw this scene, he was furious.

It was fine if she was at the bottom every day, but she actually fell asleep in his class!

Master Jiang picked up the ruler beside him and was about to slap Su Xiaoxiao.

Princess Jingning unleashed her aura and glared at Master Jiang coldly.

Give it a try?!

Master Jiang was speechless.

At noon, Princess Jing Ning brought Su Xiaoxiao to the Taili Pond Pavilion in the harem for lunch..

Chapter 341

She didn't like to bring Su Xiaoxiao back to Kunning Palace.

It was not that Su Xiaoxiao was not qualified, but that Kunning Palace was too cold. The more she interacted with it, the more she did not want to bring Su Xiaoxiao to that impersonal palace.

Su Xiaoxiao didn't care.

She did not curry favor with the empress. Wouldn't she just eat wherever she went?

The only request she had mentioned was that there were too many dishes and it was a serious waste.

Today, the imperial kitchen made wild bass soup, stewed chicken with small mushrooms, fermented eggplant, and stir-fried cabbage.

It was really delicious.

However, as Su Xiaoxiao ate, she fell asleep with a thud. Princess Jingning wondered, “What did you do last night?”

“Miss Su, Miss Su.”

Taozhi called out twice.

Princess Jingning said softly, “Forget it, don't disturb her. Let her sleep. Go get my cloak.”

“Yes.” Taozhi returned to Kunning Palace and carried a cloak over, carefully covering Su Xiaoxiao.

“Take away the food.” Princess Jingning said.

She had no appetite eating alone.

Princess Jingning sat in the pavilion for a while with her book.

Su Xiaoxiao slept soundly.

The palace servants' jaws dropped.

Miss Su was the first person in the world to dare to make the legitimate princess wait like this.

Not long after Princess Jingning sat down, Aunt Mei came over from the palace. She said that the empress had asked Princess Jingning to go to Yong Shou Palace with her to visit the Empress Dowager.

“She was frightened by the wind at night and coughed a little.” Aunt Mei said. Princess Jingning couldn't reject this. She kept the Taozhi at the pavilion.

An hour later, Su Xiaoxiao woke up.

Taozhi let out a long sigh.

If Miss Su didn't wake up, she wouldn't know what to do. Should she wake Miss Su up for class or let Miss Su continue sleeping—

Taozhi thoughtfully fetched a basin of water and placed a clean towel.

Su Xiaoxiao thanked her and washed her face, looking much more energetic.

Taozhi sent Su Xiaoxiao to the Palace Academy to study.

Su Xiaoxiao knew the way, but since Princess Jingning had instructed Taozhi to guard her, Taozhi had to do it beautifully and finish it.

Su Xiaoxiao didn't refuse.

This time, the two of them did not walk through the peach garden. Instead, they slowly walked along the pool toward the exit of the harem.

When she passed by the small pond near the Bright Moon Pavilion, she met a few daughters who were admiring fish outside.

Su Xiaoxiao didn't care at first until she heard herself.

“That countryside girl is too much! How could she do such a crazy thing!”

“That's right. To think that I thought she was just from the countryside and didn't know the rules. She's ultimately not a bad person. I didn't expect her to actually injure the patient and forcefully bring the patient to her medical center for treatment! How is this different from being a bandit? Is no one going to care?”

Lin Ruyue snorted. “How can we care about such things? Unless the patient reports it to the officials himself, we can't do anything!”

Miss Wang smiled. “Everyone, stop talking. When Miss Hu comes over later and hears us discussing Benevolence Hall, she will be sad.”

Lin Ruyue sighed. “The Benevolence Hall is so pitiful. How did they end up with such a scoundrel?”

As soon as she finished speaking, Miss Wang coughed heavily.

Lin Ruyue was in a good mood and didn't notice Miss Wang's hint at all. She continued, “I heard that her mother passed away a long time ago. A eldest daughter like her has no mother. No wonder she didn't learn…”

Before she could finish, Su Xiaoxiao walked over with a cold expression. Miss Wang hurriedly tugged at her sleeve. “Ahem!”

Lin Ruyue sensed something and turned around. A trace of guilt and embarrassment flashed across her eyes.

However, she would not show weakness in front of a country girl.

She bluffed and said, “Did I say something wrong? You had no mother—Ah!”

Su Xiaoxiao didn't waste her breath on her. She grabbed her collar and threw her into the water!

This scene stunned everyone.

In the past, they had ridiculed this girl a lot. This girl always looked indifferent.

They thought she had no temper…

Lin Ruyue did not know how to swim and struggled in the water for a long time before she was saved by the eunuchs and palace maids at the side.

Lin Ruyue sat on the grass wetly and wanted to curse, “Su, are you crazy?” However, when she met Su Xiaoxiao's gaze, she choked.

Now that class was approaching, Princess Hui An came over from Qi Xiang Palace.

She saw movement here and walked over with the palace maid. She asked, “What's wrong with you?”

Lin Ruyue instantly seemed to have seen a life-saving straw.. Her eyes turned red as she cried to Princess Hui An, “Princess, Miss Su pushed me into the water! Please mete out justice for me!”

Chapter 342

This girl was close to Princess Jingning, and Princess Hui An and Princess

Jingning had always been at odds. If there was an opportunity to suppress

Princess Jingning, Princess Hui An would definitely not let it go easily, right?

Su was dead meat!

Princess Hui An raised her chin arrogantly and questioned Su Xiaoxiao, “Why did you push Miss Lin into the water?”

Su Xiaoxiao glanced at Princess Hui An.

Lin Ruyue struck while the iron was hot, not giving Su Xiaoxiao a chance to defend herself. “She was domineering in the capital. I was just stating the facts just now, but she pushed me into the water in anger?”

Princess Hui An asked, “Why is she domineering?”

Lin Ruyue complained, “In order to snatch the business of Benevolence Hall, their medical center deliberately injured the guests of Benevolence Hall!” Princess Hui An placed her hands on her hips and said, “Is there actually such a thing? Miss Su, you're too much!”

Seeing this, Taozhi thought to herself that there was trouble.

Her master was not around, and no one here could suppress Princess Hui An. Miss Su was doomed…

Taozhi's hearing was not as good as Su Xiaoxiao's, so she really didn't hear the conversation between the ladies just now.

She did not understand why Miss Su suddenly attacked Miss Lin.

But she believed in Miss Su's character.

She rushed forward and said, “Princess Hui An, there must be something going on…”

“Shut up!” Princess Hui An would not give Jingning's palace maidany courtesy.

Princess Hui An said to Su Xiaoxiao, “Hurry up and apologize to Miss Lin and beg for her forgiveness! Otherwise, I'll definitely punish you severely today!” “The Grand Empress Dowager has arrived…”

Accompanied by the eunuch's voice, a bright yellow phoenix carriage slowly walked towards everyone.

Princess Hui An and the daughters hurriedly turned around and bowed respectfully.

Su Xiaoxiao looked up at the figure in the gauze curtain. She had not seen the Grand Empress Dowager since that day.

In the phoenix carriage, the Grand Empress Dowager said coldly, “What happened?”

Princess Hui An told him what had happened. She did not add fuel to the fire or distort it maliciously. She repeated what Lin Ruyue said.

The Grand Empress Dowager didn't ask Su Xiaoxiao. Instead, she looked at the daughters other than Su Xiaoxiao and Lin Ruyue. “Do you have anything to say?”

She was asking everyone for testimony.

Lin Ruyue was not afraid.

They couldn't stand that girl like her, so they wouldn't speak up for her!

As soon as this thought flashed through her mind, an inconspicuous young lady slowly walked out. “Grand… Grand Empress Dowager, I… have something to say.”

“Whose house are you from?”

“The Lu family,” Lu Ying said.

The trusted eunuch beside the phoenix carriage whispered, “Two daughters of the Lu family came to participate in the election. One is from the original wife, and the other is from the second wife. This one is from the second wife.”

The Grand Empress Dowager raised her hand calmly. Her trusted eunuch bowed and retreated.

“Miss Lu,” the Empress Dowager said. “Go ahead.”

Lu Ying bit her lip and said, “Miss Lin hurt Miss Su with her words.” Lin Ruyue frowned!

Lu Ying pinched her handkerchief to embolden herself and continued, “Miss Lin said that Miss Su lost her mother since she was young and is the eldest daughter of a widower. She has a mother but no mother to raise her… She lacks upbringing! ”

As soon as these words were spoken, everyone's scalps began to tingle.

It was over. It was really over.

Why didn't they speak up for that girl just now? Did they really want to protect Lin Ruyue more?

It was because… they did not dare to say these words!

Everyone knew that the Grand Empress Dowager had lost her mother at a young age and her father at the age of ten. She had no choice but to join her distant cousin, the Guo family.

Didn't Lin Ruyue's scolding of that girl hit the Grand Empress Dowager's sore spot?

Chapter 343

Everyone was terrified.

Bai Xihe was not angry. Her tone was clear and calm, like the wind blowing from a mountain stream. “To raise a daughter like Miss Lin, Captain Lin is really well – mannered. ”

Her voice was clearly not angry, but it made everyone's hearts tighten.

Lin Ruyue finally realized that she was in trouble.

She never dreamed that she would provoke the Grand Empress Dowager.

In an instant, countless thoughts flashed through her mind. However, compared to saving herself, she was still thinking about how things had developed to this point.

She had often mocked that girl from the countryside in the palace school. The other party never took it seriously, so she became even more unrestrained.

If that girl had fought with her from the beginning, perhaps she would not have been so smug…

“Grand… Grand Empress Dowager…”

She looked at the woman in the phoenix carriage pleadingly, hoping that the other party would forgive her for the sake of the Lin family. Unfortunately, she was going to be disappointed.

Bai Xihe said calmly, “Little Yunzi.”

The eunuch beside the phoenix carriage bowed. “I'm here.”

Su Xiaoxiao recognized him as the eunuch who had used a peach as a weapon to stand in front of the grand Empress Dowager in the peach garden last time.

So his name was Little Yunzi.

Little Yunzi said, “What instructions do you have, Empress Dowager?” “I remember. Miss Lin is a student of the Palace Academy?”

“Yes,” Little Yunzi replied.

Bai Xihe said, “In that case, it's not appropriate for me to interfere. Go to the Palace Academy and tell them the truth about what happened today. There's no need to ask me how the Palace Academy will deal with it.”

On the surface, these words were handed over to Palace Academy. However, the problem was that the Grand Empress Dowager had personally made an appearance. Was it certain that she did not want to ask?

Lin Ruyue panicked. She knelt on the ground and pounced at Bai Xihe. “Grand Empress Dowager… Grand Empress Dowager… ”

The thin veil of the phoenix carriage was gently blown by the breeze. Bai Xihe Yu was sitting on the soft futon and her expression was unchanged.

Su Xiaoxiao looked at her steadily and thought of how frightened she had been outside the palace that day.

They were really… two different people.

Bai Xihe left.

In this deep palace, she could stand aloof from the world, but she could not show her vulnerability to anyone.

If she had been careless, she would have long been a pile of bones under the palace wall.

However, what she did not expect was that people would still see her most vulnerable side.

Thinking of this, Bai Xihe closed her eyes with a complicated expression.

The Palace Academy had two teachers in charge, also known as the Great Masters. One was Lord Zuo from the Ministry of Rites, and the other was Lord Liao from the Hanlin Academy.

They managed the Palace Academy together. When they saw Grand Empress Dowager's favorite come over, the two of them were so shocked that they almost wore their official hats crooked.

If the Empress or Empress Dowager had sent someone over, they would think it was normal. Why did the Grand Empress Dowager, who never interfered in the harem, interfere in the matters of the Palace Academy?

It was not until Little Yunzi finished that the two of them understood what was going on.

After Little Yunzi left, the two of them looked at each other and sighed.

Lord Zuo of the Ministry of Rites said, “Old Niao (pee), what do you think we should do?”

“It's Liao!” Lord Liao corrected him.

Lord Zuo waved his hand. “Sigh, why are you still fussing about this at a time like this?”

Hanlin officials loved to nitpick!

Lord Liao had a headache.

If the Grand Empress Dowager really didn't want to interfere, she wouldn't have asked someone to come over personally. However, Miss Lin's background… was not low.

The four great military families of Great Zhou were the Wei family, the Qin family, the Su family, and the Leng family.

Correspondingly, there were also four civil servants' families: the Wang family, the Jing family, the Guo family, and the Lu family.

In recent years, because of several incidents, the Lu family's status was not as good as before. It was faintly on the verge of being replaced by the Lin family.

Among them, Captain Lin was the cousin of the Empress Dowager.

This was very awkward.

On one side was the Grand Empress Dowager, and on the other was Captain Lin and the Empress Dowager. What could they do to not offend both sides?

“It's impossible not to offend someone. Choose one,” Lord Zuo said resignedly.

The Empress Dowager was the emperor's biological mother. In terms of connections, she was naturally better.

However, back then, when the late emperor inherited the throne from his nephew, it attracted many criticisms. In order to stop everyone from talking, the late emperor did not dare to slight the Empress Dowager at all.

Emperor Jing Xuan carried out his father's dying wish and treated the Grand Empress Dowager well.

The Grand Empress Dowager had done a beautiful job. She could clearly get the daughter of a small family to get out of the Palace Academy with a decree, but she had to push it to them and let them be the source of injustice for offending the Empress Dowager and Captain Lin.

Speaking of which, Lin Ruyue had indeed gone overboard.

Since the matter had already spread, it was inevitable that people would suspect that the Palace Academy was unfair if she was not severely punished. Even the reputation of the two princesses would be affected.

In the end, the two of them decided to expel Lin Ruyue.

Lin Ruyue waited in the classroom with trepidation. She knew that she had caused a huge disaster this time and would definitely be punished, but she did not expect to be expelled from the palace school.

Why?

It was just because she scolded that girl for not having a mother.

“I wasn't disrespecting the Grand Empress Dowager! I was scolding that girl… In the small garden outside the classroom, she cried.

Not a single daughter came to comfort her.

Who asked her to provoke the Grand Empress Dowager? Everyone could not wait to avoid suspicion.

“Miss Hu! Miss Hu!”

In her panic, she saw Hu Biyun walking towards her.

Hu Biyun had also heard about this from the palace servants. She was about to turn around and pretend not to hear it when Lin Ruyue rushed to her.

Lin Ruyue grabbed her wrist. “Miss Hu! Imperial Physician Hu has been a popular person with His Majesty and the Empress recently. Help me plead for leniency! Tell them not to expel me from the palace school…”

Hu Biyun brushed away Lin Ruyue's hand without a trace and said with a regretful expression, “Miss Lin, I want to help you too, but my father is busy with the Imperial Hospital… The Empress Dowager's phoenix body is incompatible… My father hasn't returned to the residence for a few days. It's difficult for me to even see him… Forgive me for being unable to help.” How great honor was it to be able to treat the Empress Dowager?

It was unknown if Hu Biyun was rejecting or showing off.

Lin Ruyue looked at her in disappointment. “You just don't want to help me, right?”

Hu Biyun opened her mouth. “Miss Lin…”

Lin Ruyue said excitedly, “I reprimanded that girl to stand up for you! You were the one who told me that that girl used tricks to snatch your Benevolence Hall's business, so I stood up for you! Why are you doing this to me?”

Hu Biyun said in a low voice, “I didn't beg you.”

Lin Ruyue shouted, “Hu Biyun!”

“I'm going to class, Miss Lin. Excuse me.”

With that, Hu Biyun entered the classroom without looking back.

The Lin family had risen rapidly, but Lin Ruyue was just a daughter of a concubine!

Chapter 344

Lin Ruyue was dealt with. This was the first serious incident in more than half a month since the Palace Academy started school.

Lin Ruyue was originally the daughter of a concubine in the family. She relied on her talent to enter the palace school. If everything went smoothly, her status as a princess's companion would increase her net worth.

However, with this incident, her reputation was ruined.

It would be difficult to say that she could be married to a good family in the future.

Everyone could not help but be shocked.

It was said that accompanying a ruler was like accompanying a tiger. One had to be careful in the palace.

Su Xiaoxiao was also in the wrong today. No matter how unreasonable Lin

Ruyue was, she shouldn't have pushed her into the water.

She was punished to copy the Analects.

This punishment… was honestly considered light.

“Why do you think she's so lucky?” a young lady muttered.

Everyone knew why the punishment was so painless.

From the beginning to the end, the Grand Empress Dowager did not scold her. This meant that the Grand Empress Dowager agreed with her actions.

Of course, no one thought that the Grand Empress Dowager was protecting Su Xiaoxiao. In everyone's opinion, the Grand Empress Dowager was just too angry at Lin Ruyue, so she would not punish Su Xiaoxiao for teaching Lin Ruyue a lesson.

As for the Grand Empress Dowager doing this, wasn't she afraid that the world would laugh at her for being unfair?

They were clearly all wrong. Could it be that because Su Xiaoxiao had “pleased” her, she had pardoned the other party's sins?

The Grand Empress Dowager had no husband, no children, and no mother. When one had nothing to ask for, they naturally had nothing to fear.

No matter what happened, she had no desires.

The relationship between the royal court and the harem was intertwined. Any seemingly inconspicuous matter might have countless interests hidden behind it.

Strictly speaking, it was not a small matter for the Lin family's daughter to be expelled.

The Empress Dowager would definitely ask.

The Empress Dowager would not go against the Grand Empress Dowager, but in order to give the Lin family an explanation, would she find a reason to punish that little girl?

After school, the two princesses went to Yongshou Palace to greet the Empress Dowager.

Princess Hui An glanced at Princess Jingning coldly. “Why are you so close to

Princess Jing Ning's eyelashes trembled as she said without changing her expression, “Actually, there's something I've been hesitating about telling you.” “What is it?” Princess Hui An asked angrily.

Princess Jing Ning said seriously, “Lin Ruyue… once said bad things about you. She said that you… have big breasts and no brains… you're an idiot.”

Princess Hui An was speechless!

Fifteen minutes later, Princess Hui An stormed into the Empress Dowager's bedroom.

Princess Jingning stood at the door and listened to her stupid sister complain about Lin Ruyue indignantly. She was like an angry little fighting chicken.

“I don't care, I don't care! If Grandmother lets her come back, I won't come to Eternal Life Palace again!”

“Why ask her to come here to explain? She definitely won't admit it! She lied to me at Ming Yuexuan in the afternoon!”

“Jingning told me! She definitely won't lie to me!”

Jingning never lied.

That was indeed the case before today.

Su Xiaoxiao left the palace and got into Su Mot s carriage leisurely.

Su MO looked at her calm expression. If not for the fact that he had a spy, Eunuch Sun, he would never have guessed that this girl had fought with someone in the palace.

That didn't seem right.

It was a one-sided thrashing by the little girl.

Su MO said, “Aren't you going to tell me?”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Tell you what?”

Su MO looked at her like an elder brother.

“Oh.” Su Xiaoxiao raised her eyebrows. “There's indeed such a thing.”

She slowly placed the book bag on the table. “The master punished me to copy the Analects.”

Su MO asked, “What happened? Have you eaten the cause and effect?”

This matter did not end so easily.

Su Yuan worked in the Ministry of War, and opposite him was the office of the three dukes.

It was almost time to leave the palace. Captain Lin packed up and planned to leave.

Just as he reached the door, a subordinate came to report, “His Majesty has summoned you to the imperial study.”

Captain Lin held an important position and it was normal for him to be summoned. He did not think too much about it and immediately went.

When he arrived at the imperial study, he realized that Su Yuan was also there.

The Lin family had been in their camp since Emperor Jing Xuan was still Prince Ruyang, and so had the Su family. Because of this, the two families were still considered harmonious in the officialdom.

In addition, the Lin family originally wanted to get married to the Su family, and Su Yuan agreed. However, Su MO and his second daughter were not compatible, so this marriage could only be dropped.

His eldest daughter was already married. His third daughter, Lin Ruyue, was compatible with Su Mo. However, Lin Ruyue was a concubine's daughter. As the heir of the Marquis of Zhenbei, Su MO naturally would not marry a concubine's daughter..

Chapter 345

Captain Lin bowed to Emperor Jing Xuan and greeted Su Yuan, “Minister Su.”

They did not become in-laws, but they did not become enemies.

Who knew that Su Yuan would ignore him?

Captain Lin looked confused.

Emperor Jing Xuan said calmly, “Captain Lin, Minister Su has made a complaint against you.”

Captain Lin was even more confused.

He didn't seem to have offended Su Yuan, right?

What was Su Yuan going to do with him?

If anyone were to receive a complaint, it would be the Leng and Wei families!

Seeing Captain Lin's expression, Emperor Jing Xuan knew that he had not heard about Lin Ruyue.

Emperor Jing Xuan said, “Minister Su, you didn't teach your daughter well and offended the Grand Empress Dowager.” Captain Lin was really baffled.

“What makes you say that?” he asked in surprise.

Su Yuan snorted coldly. “Captain Lin, why don't you go home and ask your good daughter?”

Emperor Jing Xuan actually had a headache. It was not easy for Wei Ting to stop causing trouble. He was now serving as a teacher in exchange for not being grounded. Then, Su Yuan caused trouble again.

As the king of a country, what nonsense did he have to deal with all day long?

Eunuch Fu observed his expression. Seeing that Emperor Jing Xuan had no intention of stopping him, he told him what had happened near the Bright Moon Pavilion.

“That's what happened!” Su Yuan said.

Su Yuan refused to mention that Su Xiaoxiao had pushed Lin Ruyue into the water for personal reasons. He said righteously, “My niece really couldn't stand it anymore and was afraid that your daughter would say something that would kill her, so she helped her in a moment of desperation!”

Captain Lin was speechless. Did she help by pushing his daughter into the water?

Was he sure this was a favor?

Not a lesson?

How could anyone distort the truth like this these days?

Su Yuan only emitted one message—My niece is too kind. Hurry up and thank her!

Captain Lin was about to vomit blood.

He really did not know that Lin Ruyue had caused such huge trouble in the Palace Academy.

Actually, anyone with discerning eyes could tell that Lin Ruyue was scolding the daughter of the Protector Duke who had returned from the commoners, but she had bumped into the Grand Empress Dowager. The Grand Empress Dowager was indeed furious.

This was a little confusing.

It was impossible to absolve Lin Ruyue. It would be akin to challenging the Grand Empress Dowager.

Although the Empress Dowager did not have any real power, she was a cover for the royal family. Back then, when the late emperor inherited the throne from his nephew, it attracted countless doubts.

The late Emperor's lineage did not dare to let the Grand Empress Dowager suffer any grievances.

At least on the surface, they did not dare to.

Captain Lin braced himself and took the blame. “I… have failed to teach my daughter… I'm willing to be punished!”

Emperor Jing Xuan said seriously, “You shall be fined half a year's salary. In addition, you don't have to worry about supervising the Divine Bow Camp for now. You should spend more effort teaching your children.”

It did not matter if his salary was fined or not, but supervising the Divine Bow Camp was a lucrative job!

Moreover, the Lin family had been gaining momentum in the past two years.

They had a chance of replacing the Lu family as one of the eight great families thanks to his supervisory work at the Divine Bow Camp.

Wasn't this all for naught?!

Emperor Jing Xuan asked indifferently, “Why? Do you think my punishment is too heavy?”

Captain Lin cupped his hands and knelt down. “I don't dare. I'm willing to be punished!”

Emperor Jing Xuan continued, “Minister Su, I'll leave the Divine Bow Camp to you.”

“Huh?” Su Yuan was stunned.

Emperor Jing Xuan said, “Why? Are you unhappy?”

Su Yuan hurriedly bowed and said, “Thank you for your high regard, Your

Majesty. I'm flattered!”

He was only here to seek justice for his little niece. How did he receive a fat job in retain?

Captain Lin returned to the residence angrily.

“Call Third Miss over!”

Lin Ruyue had suffered a lot today and was waiting for her father to come back and seek justice for her.

When ordinary people heard that their parents wanted to see them after causing trouble, their first reaction would definitely be guilt. Lin Ruyue's mind was strange. She actually felt that she could complain to her father.

Su Daya and Hu Biyun were both bad people!

“Father…

Her eyes turned red and she was about to complain.

Captain Lin slapped her. “Evil creature!”

After the Old Marquis was bedridden, Su MO spent much more time in the military camp than before.

He did not come from the Marquis of Zhenbei's Estate to pick Su Xiaoxiao up every day. He came from the military camp.

After sending Su Xiaoxiao back to Pear Blossom Lane, he returned to the military camp.

The difference was that he did not come out to train tonight.

The soldiers felt strange.

The eldest young master, who had trained harder than anyone else, suddenly became lazy.

“Is he not in the military camp?”

“Yes, I saw Eldest Young Master come over with my own eyes. If you don't believe me, look. The lights in his tent are on.”

“That's right. I even delivered food to Eldest Young Master tonight!”

“Did something happen…”

The few of them hurriedly went to Su Mo's tent.

Listening to his breathing, he was alive.

Looking at the shadow… he was definitely not dead.

The few of them squeezed their heads through the gap in the curtain curiously.

Then, the rough men were all dumbfounded.

Their eldest young master was actually sitting obediently in the tent… copying books one by one?!

Su Xiaoxiao went home for dinner and went to the first hall with her three cute tails.

The three little ones went to the backyard to play obediently.

They were very clingy to Su Xiaoxiao, but they never disturbed her when she was doing things.

The lobby was a little cold, and the atmosphere was a little strange.

On the first day of the opening, the consultation fee was not charged and the medical fee was halved. Coupled with the wave of publicity last night, logically speaking, even if today's business did not explode, it would not be so deserted.

“What happened?” Su Xiaoxiao asked.

The others did not dare to say anything and only lowered their heads, looking guilty and ashamed.

“Let me explain.” Physician Fu sighed. “When we first opened, there were indeed many guests. A few of them were introduced by the onlookers last night, but at noon, a patient suddenly ran over and said that our Number One Hall's medicine had spoiled his son's stomach. He caused a commotion for a long time, and the guests were all frightened away. That's not all. The patient our Number One hall treated yesterday's mother stood up for us, but she was blamed. People said that we were in cahoots. They said she was acting to smear the reputation of Benevolence Hall.”

“Ah Zhong immediately went to report to the officials. When the officials came over, they slipped away. But the customers… have long been chased by them.”

“It's all my fault for being useless.”

Physician Fu lowered his head in self-reproach. “If you were here today, it definitely wouldn't be like this.”

He had seen Su Xiaoxiao's ability. No one could play tricks in front of her.

Physician Fu was a kind, upright, and outstanding doctor, but he was not a shrewd businessman.

Otherwise, back in town, with his medical skills, as long as he knew some marketing and competition, he would have long snatched all the business of Hui Hui Hall. “It's not your fault.”

Su Xiaoxiao.

She had been careless. She should have found a shopkeeper in advance. If she didn't go to school, she could be the shopkeeper—

“I'll go to Grandma Zhou's house tonight and ask her to introduce a shopkeeper.”

Physician Fu sighed. “It's not easy to find a shopkeeper. If we meet someone capable, just the price alone won't be able to move them. Our new medical center doesn't have any fame or status. No powerful shopkeeper is willing to come over.”

He knew these principles.

He was right. A good shopkeeper was hard to come by.

Just as everyone was at a loss, a familiar voice suddenly sounded at the door.

“Excuse me, are you hiring a shopkeeper here?”

Everyone looked over.

Who was this person?

Su Xiaoxiao said in a daze, “It's you…”

Chapter 346

Physician Fu also recognized him. He was extremely surprised. “Manager Sun?”

Physician Fu had seen Manager Sun a few times in town and knew that this person was originally the shopkeeper of Jin Ji. Later on, he was fired by Jin Ji and became the shopkeeper of Su Ji.

Wasn't he in town taking care of Su Ji?

Why did he come all the way to the capital?

After not seeing him for a few months, Manager Sun had still changed a little. It was obvious that the middle-aged man's stomach was gone. Although he looked a little tired, he looked more energetic.

Manager Sun carried a bag and walked into the house with a smile. He cupped his hands at Physician Fu. “Doctor Fu, long time no see. How have you been?” “How have you been?” Physician Fu was stunned.

Su Xiaoxiao tilted her head and looked at Manager Sun, who had appeared out of thin air. 'Why are you here?” Manager Sun said in a tone, “Why? Am I not welcome?”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Well… let me think.”

Manager Sun's face darkened.

Little Weizi was a smart little medicine boy. He could tell that both parties knew each other and quickly went forward to take the other party's bag. “It's been hard on you since you came from afar. Give me the bag.”

Manager Sun glanced at him and handed him the bag. “Yo, young man, not
bad. ”

Little Weizi chuckled.

Manager Sun looked around. “A new medical center? Not bad. It's even bigger than Su Ji.”

“Let's talk upstairs,” Su Xiaoxiao said.

Manager Sun followed.

Su Xiaoxiao said to Physician Fu, “Master, come here too.” Physician Fu followed the two of them upstairs.

The three of them sat down in the accounting room.

Du Juan and Ying'er served tea and snacks.

Manager Sun was surprised again. “Yo, you even hired maidservants?”

Su Xiaoxiao corrected him. “They're not maidservants. They're medicinal assistants or medicine girls.”

“Female medicinal assistant?” Manager Sun glanced at the two of them thoughtfully. “Interesting.”

“Don't scare my medicine girls,” Su Xiaoxiao said protectively.

Manager Sun's face darkened again.

Du Juan and Ying'er held back their laughter and went downstairs.

Manager Sun gulped down a few large cups of tea and finally recovered.

He told her the reason why he came to the capital. “…Jin Ji has completely courted death. Su Ji's business is thriving. There's nothing for me to worry about. I've decided to put aside my achievements and reputation and come to the capital to continue helping you.”

Su Xiaoxiao hit the nail on the head. “You actually couldn't get along with

Yuniang, right?”

Manager Sun choked. “What nonsense are you talking about!”

To be honest, it was not that they could not get along, but the two of them had different opinions on many issues. Moreover, the two of them had strong personalities.

Su Yuniang was as strong as Su Xiaoxiao, but she did not have Su Xiaoxiao's strong fists to protect her. In that case… Manager Sun was more or less unconvinced.

Su Xiaoxiao looked at him strangely. “So you deserve a beating?”

“Cough, cough, cough! How, how, how, how, how can you speak like this?” Manager Sun cleared his throat and said seriously, “The common saying is right. A mountain can't tolerate two tigers unless it's a male and a female!”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Aren't the two of you a male and a female?”

Manager Sun was speechless.

Manager Sun and Su Yuniang did have some disagreements, but this was not the main reason why he came to the capital.

He and Su Yuniang were both people who could take charge. It was enough for Su Ji to have one of them.

On the other hand, Su Xiaoxiao might need someone more.

Su Yuniang's daughter was still young. She could not travel far, so Manager Sun was the one who came.

On this matter, the two of them had surprisingly unanimous opinions.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “I replied to your letter and Yuniang's.”

Manager Sun waved his hand. “It's fine. Yuniang will send it to me when she receives it.”

Far away in Apricot Flower Town, Su Yuniang thought, Heh, what nonsense!

Manager Sun continued, “I've said enough. Let's talk about you. How have you been since you came to the capital? You've lost so much weight. I almost didn't dare to acknowledge you just now.”

Su Xiaoxiao's current weight was only more than 130 catties. Compared to those daughters who cherished their thinness, she was still considered a little fatty. However, as long as one had seen her weigh 200 catties, one could understand that she had completely changed.

Her appearance was also much more exquisite, so Manager Sun did not evaluate her.

“We… are alright,” Su Xiaoxiao said.

Manager Sun wouldn't allow her to patronize him like this.

Manager Sun stopped asking her and asked Physician Fu.

Physician Fu cherished his words more than Su Xiaoxiao. “We're indeed alright.'

Manager Sun thought that it was no wonder he couldn't cause trouble!

Su Xiaoxiao and Physician Fu were not people who could chat with others. Manager Sun was Buddhist. He would ask Ergou later.

Thinking of something, Su Xiaoxiao asked, “Speaking of which, since you didn't receive my letter, how did you know I was here?”

Manager Sun said, “I know that you're a doctor in the Marquis of Zhenbei's

Estate. I got someone to ask about the whereabouts of the Marquis of Zhenbei's Estate. I was just asking when I heard that a medical center was opened here and they fought with the Benevolence Hall for business. In the end, they were dealt with miserably by the Benevolence Hall.”

Su Xiaoxiao said solemnly, “You added the last two sentences yourself, right?”

“Ahem!” Manager Sun said seriously, “Anyway, I'm not wrong.”

Physician Fu said guiltily, “It was my fault.”

Manager Sun hurriedly said, “Don't take it to heart. I don't mean to blame you! You're a doctor who treats people seriously. How can you beat those who play dirty tricks? Alright, leave these messy things to me in the future. No matter what kind of monster the Benevolence Hall is, in my hands, there's only one path—death!”

At Benevolence Hall, Second Master Hu was sitting in the accountant's office drinking tea.

At the side, Shopkeeper Wu chuckled and said, “Boss, I went to take a look just now. All the customers in the first hall have left! If this continues, they will close in a few days!”

Second Master Hu took a sip of tea in satisfaction. “You did well.”

Shopkeeper Wu hesitated and said, “However… I heard that the little girl from the first hall is a little related to the Wei family?”

Second Master Hu snorted coldly. “No, Big Brother got someone to ask around. The Wei family doesn't have a fat maidservant. Hui'er must have made a mistake. That girl has nothing to do with Wei Ting.”

Manager Wu smiled and said, “In that case, I'm relieved.”

Second Master Hu said calmly, “That girl has some ties with the Qin family. She's the granddaughter of the old Protector Duke.”

“What?” Manager Wu was shocked.

Second Master Hu said, “Look at how frightened you are. The old Protector Duke is already old and doesn't have many years left. His Majesty asked his son to compete fairly with Qin Jiang for military power. His son grew up among the commoners. How can he be Qin Jiang's match? My niece is on good terms with Qin Jiang's daughter. In the future, we'll be in the same boat.”

Shopkeeper Wu relaxed.

Second Master Hu said calmly, “There's no need to be afraid of a countryside girl. What methods do you have? Just use them and don't kill anyone.”

Manager Wu said confidently, “Don't worry, Boss. I know my limits.”

Second Master Hu said coldly, “This time, we originally planned to buy the He family's shop at a low price. Unexpectedly, the Number One Hall appeared halfway!”

Manager Wu smiled and said, “They can only blame themselves for overestimating themselves. They even dared to snatch the Hu family's business.. When they can't run it like the He family, we'll lower the price and buy it!”

Chapter 347

Manager Sun stayed in the medical hall. Other than Ah Zhong, Physician Fu and the others also stayed in the medical hall.

The backyard and the back room were separated by Su Xiaoxiao into two separate courtyards. The big one had a kitchen, and Chef Cao and Madam Yang lived there.

The small one was Su Xiaoxiao's courtyard. There were two rooms inside. One was hers, and the other was occupied by Ying'er and Du Juan.

She did not live there often, but as long as it was her courtyard, no one would dare to barge in.

Little Wei lived on the first floor, while Physician Fu and Manager Sun lived on the second floor.

Manager Sun rushed on without stopping. He was exhausted and had long rested.

He had to rest well and deal with the Benevolence Hall.

Manager Sun's arrival was a timely opportunity for Su Xiaoxiao. She could free up her energy to do more things.

She also asked Su Ergou to take over the snack business again.

It was not only a matter of Benevolence Hall targeting the Number One Hall, but she was also targeting Benevolence Hall.

The position of Benevolence Hall was really good.

If she could buy it in the future, she would open a snack shop for Ergou!

The next day, the second and third sons of the Su family, who had eaten their fill, brought their little cousin, Su Ergou, to school in satisfaction.

Su Xiaoxiao sent the three little ones to Lingyun.

Usually, it was Deng An or Master Zhang who opened the door. It had been a few days since she last saw Ling Yun. Now that she saw him today, she felt that he had changed a lot.

How should he put it?

He was still skinny. After all, he was only skin and bones. It was unrealistic for him to grow fat and white all at once.

However, the depression in his cheeks and eye sockets was not as serious.

More importantly, Su Xiaoxiao saw him eating.

He held an egg pancake in his hand and frowned as he nibbled on it in disdain.

He didn't vomit..

Did his anorexia improve a little?

She thought so. He didn't even feel like throwing up now…

Just as this thought flashed through her mind, his body suddenly trembled. He clutched his chest and hurriedly ran to the backyard, vomiting.

Su Xiaoxiao heard Master Zhang's furious roar. “Egg pancakes? How dare you eat egg pancakes? Who allowed you to eat this?! Can you withstand this?!”

Su Xiaoxiao heard Master Zhang's furious roar. “Egg pancakes? How dare you eat egg pancakes? Who allowed you to eat this?! Can you withstand this?!” In the past, when Ling Yun refused to eat, Master Zhang was anxious. Now that he was eating blindly, Master Zhang was even more anxious.

“I was hungry.”

“Do you eat indiscriminately when you're hungry?”

“The porridge wasn't enough.”

Master Zhang Qinshi was incredulous.

The power of the three little ones was too strong. Ling Yun could not withstand it for an hour just by eating porridge.

Su Xiaoxiao understood.

He hadn't eaten normally for a long time, so his digestive system had become weaker.

Su Xiaoxiao suddenly remembered the digestive enzyme she got from the pharmacy.

Eh, wasn't this useful?

Su Xiaoxiao went home and gave the digestive enzyme to Ling Yun.

Experience told her that the pharmacy's health supplement was definitely not just one effect. This bottle of digestive enzymes might be able to treat all kinds of problems in his stomach.

“Take it after dinner. One pill at a time.”

This time, the pharmacy didn't let her guess the effect and gave her the instructions. She should be grateful.

Ling Yun looked at the small porcelain bottle that Su Xiaoxiao handed over and frowned. “Medicine?”

“It's for digestion,” Su Xiaoxiao replied.

“I don't want to take medicine!” Ling Yun refused stubbornly.

Su Xiaoxiao silently took out a box of osmanthus yam cakes that had just been baked this morning.

Ling Yun was silent.

After getting into Su Mo's carriage, Su Xiaoxiao blinked in shock at Su MO, who had two huge dark circles under his eyes.

“What were you doing last night?”

Su MO took out a stack of paper and handed it to her with an ashen face.

Su Xiaoxiao took a look. “The Analects of Confucius?”

Su MO said calmly, “Weren't you punished to copy?”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “I'm not going to accept my punishment…

Su MO snorted. “Wei Ting has never copied books for you, right?”

He couldn't even copy books. She couldn't accept such a man!

He would advise his sister to give up on Wei Ting every day.

After arriving at the palace school, Su Xiaoxiao handed the Analects of Confucius to Master Jiang.

Master Jiang saw that the handwriting was not Su Xiaoxiao's.

A rotten tree couldn't be carved!

He was too lazy to ask and let Su Xiaoxiao go back to her classroom.

The classroom was a little lively today. There was no other reason than the two students from Gong School quarreling.

One of them was Hu Biyun.

Oh, this was new. Didn't this daughter of the Hu family like to stir up trouble behind others' backs and reap the benefits herself?

Had she personally gone into battle and changed her strategy?

The person she was arguing with was a daughter of the Lu family, Lu Hui.

There were two daughters of the Lu Family who took the exam, and both of them were chosen. Lu Hui was the eldest daughter of the first wife, and Lu Ying, who stood up for Su Xiaoxiao during Lin Ruyue's incident, was the daughter of the second wife.

It was worth mentioning that during the first riding lesson, the young lady who was saved by Su Xiaoxiao from Princess Hui An's horse was the second daughter of the Lu family, Lu Ying.

No wonder she took the risk of offending the Lin family to speak up for Su Xiaoxiao.

However, she rarely interacted with Su Xiaoxiao.

“It's my sister's face.” Lu Ying whispered.

Su Xiaoxiao turned around and saw Lu Ying standing beside her.

She spoke carefully as if she was afraid that others would see that she was whispering.

Lu Hui wore a veil on her face and a Hua Sheng head accessory on her forehead, just like Princess Jingning.

“Oh, what happened to her face?” Su Xiaoxiao asked.

Lu Ying whispered, “She had a pimple. After applying the ointment Miss Hu gave her, her face has gotten worse.”

Su Xiaoxiao asked, “How serious is it?”

“It's just…” Lu Ying glanced at Holly weakly. When she saw that Lu Hui wasn't looking at her, she seemed to gather her courage and said, “Her face is covered in rashes. It's extremely swollen.”

That was indeed quite serious.

Even when Princess Jingning's face was covered in acne, it wasn't swollen.

Princess Jingning's skin was now as good as a peeled lychee. However, because she always wore a veil in class, the daughters of the palace school were unaware of the changes in her skin.

Lu Hui and Hu Biyun were in a heated argument.

Hu Biyun said coldly, “I was kind enough to give you the medication, but you turned the tables on me! This kind of ointment can't even be bought in a queue outside! If I had known earlier, I wouldn't have given it to you!”

Lu Hui gritted her teeth. “How am I playing the blame game? Your medicine has ruined my face!”

Hu Biyun said sarcastically, “How is it my medicine that broke your face? So many people used it, but nothing happened to them! Who knows if you ate something or applied some rouge powder that you shouldn't have!”

Lu Hui said excitedly, “I didn't! I applied it before I fell asleep last night. I washed my face and applied it directly. I didn't use rouge or powder! I didn't eat anything random!”

Hu Biyun said coldly, “Your face is obviously allergic! The illness enters through your mouth. If you say that you didn't take it, who can prove it?! My father worked hard to develop this new medicine. No matter how many people covet it, they can't buy it. If you don't want it, return it to me!”

Su Xiaoxiao looked at the skin around her eyes and forehead. Hu Biyun was right. It looked like an allergic reaction.

“Here's your medicine!”

Lu Hui said she couldn't beat her and threw the pill bottle on the floor in anger.

The bottle rolled to Lu Ying's feet.

Lu Ying bowed and picked it up.

“Can I see it?” Su Xiaoxiao asked.

Lu Ying handed her the ointment.

Su Xiaoxiao opened it and smelled it.

“I see.”

Chapter 348

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Your sister's condition was indeed caused by this ointment.” “Huh?” Lu Ying was stunned.

On the other side, because of the temporary truce, Lu Hui also heard Su Xiaoxiao's words.

She was not familiar with Su Xiaoxiao, but at this moment, only Su Xiaoxiao was on her side. The others all looked like she was being unreasonable.

She immediately clenched her fists. “Hu Biyun, did you hear that? There's something wrong with your ointment! ”

Hu Biyun mocked, “Heh, who doesn't know that her family opened a medical center next to my second uncle's Benevolence Hall? She's busy snatching our Hu family's business, so of course she'll say that. I advise you not to fall for it!”

Su Xiaoxiao casually weighed the medicine bottle in her hand. “Honeysuckle, forsythia, wild chrysanthemums, mint, black ginseng, barley rice, and rice. Your Hu family's ointment is made from these herbs, right?” Hu Biyun was shocked!

“How did you Imow… you… you stole our Hu family's recipe?! ”

Su Xiaoxiao gave her the disdain of a king. “Is there a need? Won't you know after smelling it? Or could it be that Miss Hu, as the biological daughter of Commissioner Hu, can't even identify a few medicinal herbs?”

“I…” Hu Biyun was caught off guard by Su Xiaoxiao.

She could identify some medicinal herbs. The medicinal herbs had their own taste, but sometimes when mixed together, the medicinal smell would surge, integrate, and change.

Therefore, very few people… could “sniff out” a complete prescription.

But she couldn't admit it now. Otherwise, wouldn't she be at a disadvantage?

Hu Biyun said proudly, “I can identify it, but I can't guarantee that you can do it too.”

Su Xiaoxiao threw her a small medicine bottle. “Then smell what herbs I used for this bottle of medicine.”

Hu Biyun took a sniff and said calmly, “There's… rhubarb, ginseng, chicken bone fragrance, musk…”

Su Xiaoxiao smiled faintly. “Miss Hu, you've been smelling it for so long. Can't you tell that this isn't medicine at all?”

Hu Biyun's expression suddenly changed!

All the young ladies in the classroom looked at Hu Biyun in disbelief.

Was what Miss Su said true?

Hu Biyun couldn't even recognize the medicine?!

Then she had just said the name of the herbs in a serious manner— Hu Biyun said angrily, “Are you toying with me?”

Su Xiaoxiao spread her hands. “I'm not fooling you. I'm giving Miss Hu a chance to prove her strength. Otherwise, how could you make Miss Lu admit defeat obediently?”

Everyone burst out laughing.

Was there anyone who could be so arrogant after being slapped in the face?

They had come to see the little fat girl make a fool of herself, but for some reason, they were amused by her cunningness.

The chubby girl was not stupid.

On the other hand, Miss Hu seemed to be in a miserable state.

Hu Biyun gritted her teeth. “Just because you say so?”

Su Xiaoxiao smiled, “You can find an imperial physician to appraise it and see if this medicine is gold sore medicine. Not to mention finding trouble with the imperial physician, your father is the Court Commissioner. I believe that you still have this bit of influence.”

Hu Biyun choked.

She was about to slam the medicine bottle on the table beside her.

Su Xiaoxiao reminded her, “Be careful, this is Princess Hui An's table.”

Hu Biyun had been deprived of the chance to smash the medicine bottle. She had nowhere to vent her anger and was about to turn into a toad!

No matter how calm she was in the face of Lu Hui's accusations, she was in a terrible mood when she was slapped in the face by Su Xiaoxiao.

“You, you, you… Stop being unreasonable here! Even if you tell us the Hu family's prescription, it doesn't prove that her face condition was caused by our Hu family's medicine!”

Hu Biyun came back to her senses. She had been angered by this girl that she was confused. She was actually led by the nose by this girl!

The crux of the matter was not how good this girl was at identifying medicinal herbs, but that there was definitely nothing wrong with their Hu family's ointment!

Su Xiaoxiao wasn't in a hurry to answer her. Instead, she looked at Lu Hui. “Miss Lu, do you feel uncomfortable coming into contact with flowers every spring?

Lu Hui quickly said, “That's right, that's right. There's actually a little of it all year round, and spring is the worst. I never raise flowers in my yard, or I'll sneeze and have rashes.”

“This is because Miss Lu is allergic to pollen,” Su Xiaoxiao explained patiently.

“The Hu family's prescription has wild chrysanthemums and honeysuckle. Ordinary people will be fine after applying it, but Miss Lu, who is allergic to pollen, will be affected.”

Lu Hui was enlightened. “No wonder my entire face was swollen when I applied

She glared at Hu Biyun coldly, 'What else do you have to say!”

Hu Biyun said stubbornly, “Then why are the others fine?”

Su Xiaoxiao crossed her arms and said calmly, “If you're referring to the daughters here, I think it's because not everyone is allergic to pollen. Secondly, they might not have used your medicine at all.”

This medicine was used to remove acne. Who would apply it on their face for no reason? Shouldn't they wait until they had acne before applying it?

Everyone felt awkward.

They had indeed not used it yet. The ointment was left at home to eat dust.

Hu Biyun was so angry that her heart ached.

At this moment, Princess Jingning came to class.

Seeing her walk into the classroom, Hu Biyun felt like she had grabbed onto a life-saving straw. “Princess Jingning used my father's medicine! Her face has recovered! This proves that my father's medicine is fine!”

This was a completely different concept.

Su Xiaoxiao never said that the Hu family's medicine was problematic for everyone. She only pointed out that it contained allergens and was not suitable for people like Miss Lu who was allergic to pollen.

Princess Jingning frowned as she looked at Hu Biyun.

Hu Biyun asked excitedly, “Princess Jingning, you've used my father's medicine, right?”

Princess Jingning replied, “Yes.”

Hu Biyun's eyes lit up, “Then you…”

Princess Jing Ning continued, “I applied it once, but it didn't work.” Hu Biyun was puzzled.

Qin Yanran's carriage had some problems today, so she arrived late.

She entered the classroom and realized that the atmosphere today was not right.

Hu Biyun sat in the last row. Her eyes were swollen like walnuts.

Su Xiaoxiao was still sitting beside Princess Jingning. Princess Hui An and Princess Lingxi did not come.

Many young ladies were secretly sizing up Su Xiaoxiao; their eyes were filled with curiosity and inquiry.

When Su Xiaoxiao turned around, they were like little rabbits who had been caught. They quickly covered their faces with books.

However, when Su Xiaoxiao turned around, they peeked at her curiously.

She was just a little late.

What happened?

Why did so many young ladies… look at that girl differently?

In the afternoon, there was a riding and archery class.

After Wei Ting's demonic training, the young ladies' riding skills improved by leaps and bounds. Even the few young ladies who had never ridden a horse could ride freely.

Today, he mainly wanted to teach archery. He did not want to teach horse riding. He had to wait until they had perfected their riding and archery skills before he could begin to combine riding and archery.

Wei Ting wore a white teacher's robe and stood on the grass field with a cold expression..

Chapter 349

The young ladies lined up in a row, with a young eunuch standing beside each of them.

After Wei Ting finished explaining the basics, he supervised the young ladies' practice.

Princess Jingning and Princess Hui An hated each other and were unwilling to stand together, but no one dared to squeeze between them.

Except… Su Xiaoxiao.

Su Xiaoxiao had been drawing her bow.

Princess Jingning glanced at her and asked, “Why don't you use an arrow?”

Princess Hui An snorted. “She doesn't know how to use it!”

Princess Jingning glanced at her coldly. “Do you know how to do it?”

“Of course I do!”

Princess Hui An shot an arrow and successfully missed the target.

The young ladies were too embarrassed to laugh at her because other than Leng Zhiruo, Qin Yanran, and Guo Lingxi, none of the other young ladies could hit the target.

Princess Jingning was a princess who was well-versed in both civil and military matters. Her horsemanship and archery skills were quite outstanding.

The more Princess Hui An looked at it, the angrier she became. She wished she could throw away the bow in her hand!

Wei Ting walked over and stood between Princess Hui An and Su Xiaoxiao, slightly behind. “Hold the bow steady.”

He said lightly.

Princess Hui An was delighted. “Ting… Cough cough, Master Wei, are you talking to me?”

She didn't dare to call him Brother Ting anymore. If she did, her legs would become thick after squatting for an hour!

Wei Ting did not answer. Instead, he looked at the target in front of him; it was unknown whose it was.

Su Xiaoxiao tightened her grip on the bow.

He said, “Take the arrow.”

“Brother Ting must be talking to me!”

Princess Hui An instantly changed her mind. She did not throw the bow anymore. She wanted to learn archery!

She drew an arrow from her quiver and nocked it on her bow.

Su Xiaoxiao nocked an arrow.

Wei Ting said, “Your right elbow is too high.”

“Huh? Oh.

Princess Hui An frowned strangely and obediently adjusted her elbow.

Wei Ting said solemnly, “Aim at the bullseye and listen to the wind. The wind will affect the direction and speed of the arrow. You have to be accurate.”

Princess Hui An stammered, “How, how do I calculate this?”

The wind could neither be seen nor touched.

Wei Ting said seriously, “Fire!”

With his order, Su Xiaoxiao and Princess Hui An shot their arrows at the same time.

Due to Wei Ting's personal guidance, Princess Hui An even used all her strength to beat up Jingning.

There was a dull thud as an arrow struck the bullseye directly in front of her.

The arrow was so powerful that half of it pierced through the bullseye.

Princess Hui An stared at the target in a daze.

“This, this, this was shot by me?” Why did it seem a little wrong?

How did she suddenly become so strong?

“That's right,” Wei Ting said.

Princess Hui An blinked.

Forget it, she must have shot it!

Or what?

The only person who drew the bow with her was the chubby girl beside Princess Jingning.

If it wasn't her, could it be the chubby girl?

Hmph, she didn't even aim her arrow correctly. It would be strange if she could hit the bullseye!

Princess Hui An was bursting with confidence and shot another arrow.

However, she missed again.

All afternoon, she had only shot that arrow.

How infuriating!

Ever since Hu Biyun was slapped in the face by Su Xiaoxiao in public, she had become much quieter in the academy. Of course, it could also be due to the fact she no longer had Lin Ruyue as her helper.

It was rare for Su Xiaoxiao to be able to enjoy the quietude.

Because of Manager Sun's arrival, the medical hall quickly stabilized the situation.

In terms of management methods, Manager Sun was a professional.

The tricks that Benevolence Hall had used were all leftovers of his.

Buying shills?

Not bad!

They were not the only ones who can buy it!

Back then, when Jin Ji had just established itself in town, its reputation was still unknown. He bought dozens of shills every day who took turns queuing at the door. After a few days of queues, Jin Ji became famous.

Naturally, if they didn't have some true ability, this plan wouldn't last long.

But Miss Su's medical skills were not mixed with water!

Manager Sun went all out!

Not to mention that he was competing maliciously and it was Benevolence Hall who started it first, then don't blame him for using extraordinary methods.

On one hand, he had bribed someone to receive treatment. On the other hand, he had also bribed a waiter to spread the news in the teahouse and praised the Number Hall's medical skills!

In short, it was all over!

In addition, he spread the news that Su Xiaoxiao had treated the Old Marquis.

He could even brag if it was fake. When it was real, he had to brag to death!

“Even the imperial physicians couldn't treat the Old Marquis's illness. We treated him first! If you don't believe me, ask the Old Marquis personally the next time he comes over.”

He did not care if the Old Marquis would come.

“You mean that your Number One Hall's medical skills are better than the imperial physicians?

“Of course! If the imperial physician can treat it, our Number One Hall can treat it. If the imperial physician can't treat it, my Number One Hall can still treat it. If our Number One Hall can't treat it, the Imperial Physician Hospital definitely can't treat it!”

One word—crazy!

Physician Fu sat in the lobby with his temples throbbing.

Was it really alright for Manager Sun to brag like this?

The doctor whispered to Su Xiaoxiao, “Does he… know your identity?”

Su Xiaoxiao thought about it, “I don't think so. I didn't tell him and neither did

Ergou.”

Recently, everyone had been busy and the two of them had yet to meet the higher-ups.

The doctor felt terrible. “He didn't know that the Old Marquis was your granduncle, but he still dared to rub against him?!”

What kind of genius was this?!

Needless to say, Manager Sun's hard work really helped the Number One Hall get a lot of patients.

In the Benevolence Hall, Second Master Hu's face was ashen.

“Didn't you say that the Number One Hall would close down in three days? Go down and take a look! Their customers are increasing!”

Shopkeeper Wu hurriedly said, “Those patients… They spent money to buy them… Didn't we do this before? It's an old trick.”

Second Master Hu said coldly, “You mean to say that the steward of the court is a shill? The nephew of the Yellow Gate Assistant Minister is a shill? The boss of the White Jade Winery is also a shill?”

Shopkeeper Wu was embarrassed.

Second Master Hu said, “I don't care what method you use. Kill the Number One Hall!” Shopkeeper Wu said, “Boss, there's something I don't know if I should say.” “Tell me!”

“The Number One Hall is in the limelight now. If we send people to cause trouble again, I'm afraid everyone won't believe us easily.”

Second Master Hu looked at him coldly. 'You mean… you're going to leave

Number One Hall be?”

Shopkeeper Wu hurriedly said, “I definitely don't mean that. Think about it, whose reputation did the Number One Hall mainly borrow?”

Second Master Hu was deep in thought. “Support? No, Marquis of Zhenbei!”

Shopkeeper Wu smiled and said, “That's right. They claimed that they treated the Marquis of Zhenbei. Regardless of whether it's true or not, let's just pretend that it's true. So what? Our master is treating the Empress Dowager's phoenix body in the palace. Once the Empress Dowager recovers, how can our limelight not overshadow theirs? When the time comes, we'll spread the news that the Old Marquis hired someone else to treat him. He only gave this credit to the

Number One Hall on account of his niece.

Second Master Hu thought about it carefully. That made sense.

“But why do I feel a chill on my back?”

Chapter 350

Yongshou Palace.

The bedroom was filled with a strong medicinal fragrance. The Empress Dowager sat at the head of the bed with a pale face. The thin blanket covered her waist and abdomen.

Emperor Jingxuan stood by the bed with a solemn expression.

Court Commissioner Hu carefully checked the Empress Dowager's pulse and stood up.

Emperor Jing Xuan asked, “How is it?”

Court Commissioner Hu replied respectfully, “From her pulse, the Empress Dowager's vital energy and blood are both deficient. Coupled with her heavy worries and overthinking, she was also frightened by the wind a while ago, so she fell sick.”

“You've been saying these things for a few days, and I'm already tired of hearing them. I just want to know when the Empress Dowager's illness will improve.”

“I'll change a new prescription for the Empress Dowager. Illness comes like a landslide, and illness disappears like silk. If the medicinal effect is too strong, it means that the side effects are also great. It's harmful to the body, Your Majesty.”

Emperor Jing Xuan took a deep breath and pinched his aching forehead, forcing himself to calm down.

“Stand down,” he said.

“Yes.” Court Commissioner Hu took a few steps back before turning around. He raised his sleeve to wipe the sweat on his forehead and immediately went to the Imperial Hospital to write a prescription.

Emperor Jing Xuan came to the stool in front of the bed and sat down. He ordered the palace servants, “You can leave.”

Eunuch Fu glanced at Granny Xi, who was beside the Empress Dowager.

Nanny Xi said to the Empress Dowager, “Your Majestät, I shall eat outside.”

The Empress Dowager nodded slightly.

Granny Xi and Eunuch Fu left with the palace servants.

Emperor Jing Xuan looked at the sickly Empress Dowager with a complicated expression. “The Court Commissioner said that Mother is worried and overthinking. I've been busy with work recently and neglected Mother. It's my fault.'

The Empress Dowager did not say anything. She just turned her face to the side indifferently.

Emperor Jing Xuan sighed. “Mother, are you planning to never forgive your son? It's been ten years. He's your son, but am I not? Would you feel better if I was the one who was killed?”

The Empress Dowager was still staring stubbornly at the wall.

The Empress Dowager was still staring stubbornly at the wall. “Mother, take care of yourself. I'll visit you another day.”

With that, Emperor Jing Xuan stood up and left Yong Shou Palace.

The night was as dark as ink.

Emperor Jingxuan walked on the quiet winding path. Eunuch Fu was holding a lantern for him.

Emperor Jingxuan said self-deprecatingly, “The death anniversary of the Prince of Nanyang is approaching again. It's like this every year.”

Eunuch Fu did not dare to reply.

King Nanyang was the eldest son of the late emperor, and Emperor Jingxuan was the fourth son of the late emperor. Both of them were born to Consort Hui, who was now the Empress Dowager.

The two brothers joined forces and defeated the empress and the legitimate prince. Then, they fought against each other.

Emperor Jing Xuan sneered and said, “I occasionally wonder if Mother would be estranged from Eldest Brother for my sake if I lost. I know what she is thinking. She thinks that Eldest Brother is the eldest son and should be more qualified than me to inherit the throne. Do you know what she once said to

Eunuch Fu said embarrassedly, “I don't know.”

Emperor Jing Xuan said sarcastically, “She told me that if the one who inherits the throne is the King of Nanyang, he will definitely not kill me! Do you believe

Eunuch Fu paused and said, “I don't believe it.”

It did not matter if he believed it or not. What Emperor Jingxuan wanted to hear was that he did not believe it.

Emperor Jing Xuan looked at the boundless night sky and a malicious glint flashed in his eyes. “I don't believe it either! If the Prince of Nanyang won, I would have ended up like him! The winner is the king, and the loser is the bandit. Why does Mother blame me?!”

Eunuch Fu did not dare to reply.

Emperor Jing Xuan said, “Forget it, let's go back to the palace.”

Eunuch Fu asked, “Which palace is His Majesty going to tonight?”

In the past, when Emperor Jingxuan was most frustrated, he liked to go to Concubine Xian's palace.

Concubine Xian was a beautiful flower. She knew how to resolve Emperor Jingxuan's worries.

However, tonight, after a moment of silence, Emperor Jing Xuan said, “Go to

Kunning Palace to see the Empress.”

Eunuch Fu said to himself,” Are you sure you're going to see the Empress? Not to enjoy Princess Jingning's snacks?”

In the blink of an eye, it was the end of April. The day of Su Cheng and Qin Jiang's competition was gradually approaching.

Qin Canglan and the Old Marquis seized every opportunity to train Su Cheng. To shorten the gap of twenty years in one month sounded like a fantasy.

However, Su Cheng's talent really made the two of them raise their eyebrows.

From the beginning, he could not even defeat one move. Now, he could withstand ten moves from Qin Canglan.

Although he was a little crafty, there was nothing wrong with deception in war. If he caught it, he caught it.

As his performance became more and more outstanding, Su Cheng's salary also increased from 10 taels a day to 20 taels a day. The highest amount he earned 50 taels a day.

Su Cheng was very satisfied.

He felt that after a year or so, he might be able to buy a house for his daughter in the capital.

“Don't you think Cheng'er recovered too quickly?”

The Old Marquis stared at Su Chengwen, who was practicing archery on the grass field.

Qin Canglan asked, “Is it fast?”

The Old Marquis thought for a moment and said, “It's faster than when we were young.”

Qin Canglan said proudly, “Of course! Like father, like son! Don't you know whose son he is!”

The Old Marquis glanced at him with a complicated expression. “The thought of such a good seedling being delayed in the countryside for 30 years makes me want to kill you.”

At the mention of this, Qin Canglan instantly lost his confidence.

He coughed resentfully. “Alright, at most, you can teach him more on my behalf in the future. He's still young and can take on a big responsibility.” The Old Marquis asked strangely, “Why do you want me to teach your son?”

Qin Canglan's eyes flashed and he said seriously, “You… Didn't you teach him well? Besides, you didn't hit him as hard as I did. I'm afraid I'll break him.”

The Old Marquis snorted coldly. “I almost thought you were giving your last words.”

Su Cheng's side was progressing smoothly, but two nights before the competition, something happened to Su Ergou.

He was gone!

After Su Qi and Su Yu finished today's class, they went to Su Ergou's class to find him to go home with them.

Their workload was heavier than Su Ergou's, and they ended the class an hour later.

Su Ergou would usually wait for them in the classroom while doing his homework.

However, when the two of them went to the classroom today, they unexpectedly missed.

“Did he go to the toilet?” Su Yu asked.

“Then let's wait.” Su Qi said.

After waiting for half an hour, Su Ergou did not come over. Su Qi went to the toilet to look for him. Su Yu continued to wait at the door of the classroom in case Su Ergou returned and missed them again.

However, Su Qi searched all the toilets in the directorate, but he didn't see Su Ergou.

“Second Brother.” Su Yu asked, “Where's Ergou?”

“No.” Su Qi shook his head.

Su Yu said strangely, “That shouldn't be the case. Ergou is very obedient. He will wait for us.

They had been in school together for nearly a month. Su Ergou never ran around. Occasionally, he would go to the toilet but he would be back soon. The two of them simultaneously sensed that something was wrong.

“Second Brother…”

“Don't panic.” Su Qi forced himself to calm down.

It was fine if they were noisy usually, but at critical moments, they could not be in a mess.

Su Qi frowned and said, “How about this, you go and find Master Cen. I remember that he was teaching Ergou's class this afternoon. I will go to the dormitory and ask Ergou's classmates. We will meet at the main entrance of the Directorate.” Su Yu agreed, “Okay!”

Chapter 351

The Directorate was not small. It was already fifteen minutes later when the two of them met up with the classmates at the entrance.

This was even using their fastest speed.

Unfortunately, there were no clues on the teacher's side. After class, Teacher Cen returned to his room as usual.

Su Yu asked, “Second Brother, is there any news from his classmates?”

Su Qi answered, “No, they all left. Before they left, Ergou was doing his homework in the classroom. Ergou is like this every day. No one thought anything would happen. Did the teacher say anything strange about Ergou in class today?”

Su Yu shook his head. “I asked. No.”

“Ask the servant guarding the door.” Su Qi said.

Fortunately, the servant had an impression of him.

“Is it the young master who is always nibbling on a pancake?” The servant asked.

The two of them nodded blankly.

The reason why the servant had an impression of Su Ergou was entirely due of Su Ergou's eating habits.

The child's pancakes were fragrant and the way he ate was even more fragrant. It made the group of servants guarding the door crave it.

“Have you seen him?” Su Qi asked.

“He went out,” the pageboy said.

“When did he leave?” Su Qi asked.

“Probably…” The servant scratched his head. “When their class just ended. I was quite puzzled. Isn't he usually with the two young masters? Why did he leave first today?”

Su Yu said worriedly, “Second Brother, Ergou has been gone for nearly an hour!”

Su Qi took a deep breath and nodded. “I know… I know… Don't panic…”

Su Qi looked at the servant again. “Did he leave alone?” “No, there was someone else,” the pageboy said.

“Who is it?” Su Yu asked anxiously.

“He's quite young. He's about the same age as him and looks…” The servant didn't know how to describe him.

However, the two of them had a bold guess.

Su Yu looked at Su Qi and asked solemnly, “He's about the same age as Ergou…

Could Second Brother be… Qin Yun?”

Su Qi's expression was solemn and he didn't say anything.

If Su Ergou really left with Qin Yun, then things would not be simple.

If Su Ergou really left with Qin Yun, then things would not be simple.

Firstly, the two of them had already formed a grudge. Secondly, Su Cheng and Qin Jiang were fighting for military power. No matter how one looked at it, the two of them were in a situation where they would fight to the death.

“That Zhang guy!”

Su Yu suddenly pointed not far away.

The “Zhang guy” he was referring to was one of Qin Yun's former scoundrel friends. Because he wanted to play dirty tricks on Su Ergou, he was scammed by the three little ones and was taught a harsh lesson by Princess Jingning.

Su Yu had an impression of this person. “He used to be very close to Qin Yun. I saw them together several times!”

Without another word, Su Qi stepped forward and grabbed Young Master Zhang's collar.

Young Master Zhang was shocked. “Who are you… Second Young Master Su?” He recognized him.

Su Yu did not have the time to waste on him. He roughly pulled him two steps forward. “Let me ask you, did Qin Yun take Su Ergou away?

Young Master Zhang said in a panic, “I… I don't know…”

Su Qi said coldly, “You're Qin Yun's friend. How could you not know?”

Young Master Zhang said aggrievedly, “I stopped interacting with him a long time ago…”

It was the truth that they did not interact.

Ever since he was beaten up by Princess Jingning, his family had warned him not to cause trouble at home again. He had become much more obedient recently.

“You don't want to tell the truth, right? Okay.” Su Qi gritted his teeth and raised his fist to punch him.

Young Master Zhang was scared half to death. He hugged his head and squatted down, shouting in shock, “I heard them saying they were going to the small bamboo house!”

Su Yu frowned. “What small bamboo house?”

Young Master Zhang said with trepidation, “It's just a half-repaired attic… It's said that someone died… It's half-repaired… There are rumors that it's haunted…'

Su Qi pushed her forward. “Lead the way!”

Young Master Zhang straightened his wrinkled clothes and muttered, “Who did

I offend…

Su Yu kicked his butt. “If you dawdle any longer, I'll cut you!”

Who wouldn't be arrogant?

The Su brothers were not to be trifled with in the Directorate, okay?

Young Master Zhang staggered and almost fell to the ground.

After stabilizing himself, he rubbed his butt and walked forward while winking at the servant.

Su Qi threatened, “If you don't want your eyeballs, I'll dig them out for you.”

Young Master Zhang hurriedly looked forward, not daring to play any tricks!

On the way there, the two of them asked Young Master Zhang about the whole story.

It turned out that on the first day Su Ergou entered the Imperial College, he had been targeted by Qin Yun.

Qin Yun had suffered a setback at Su Ergou's hands and had long held a grudge against him. Having discovered that Su Ergou had also come to the Imperial College and had taken over his identity, becoming the true High Duke of the Protectorate, he was about to explode with jealousy.

More than once, he had secretly said that he wanted to teach Su Ergou a lesson. However, Princess Jingning's scolding was too ruthless. Young Master Zhang and the rest did not dare to stand up for Qin Yun.

Hence, Qin Yun made new friends.

The status of those people was inferior to that of Young Master Zhang and the others. In the past, Qin Yun looked down on them, but now, all the young masters of large clans with some status were waiting to see what would happen. They would not easily take sides between Qin Yun and Su Ergou.

Qin Yun had no choice but to make do with this group of people as his lackeys. For the past few days, Qin Yun had been planning how to deal with Su Ergou.

“What do they plan to do?” Su Qi asked.

If his eldest brother was not around, he would be the elder brother.

He suddenly became much calmer.

Young Master Zhang said gloomily, “They asked Qin Yun to bring Su Ergou to the small bamboo house. They probably want to teach him a lesson there. Isn't that place haunted? It's best if they lock Su Ergou up for the entire night so he will go crazy from fear!”

Su Yu berated, “Who are you calling crazy?!”

Young Master Zhang shrunk his neck. “I-I'm just guessing what they're thinking.”

Young Master Zhang was right.

That was indeed the plan.

The only thing he did not guess was that when Qin Yun went to look for Su Ergou, he did not tell Su Ergou how many people there were in total. He said that he wanted to fight Su Ergou one-on-one.

Su Ergou did not pester Qin Yun. In addition, he was only fourteen years old and was at the age where he was full of vigor and vitality. Not to mention Qin Yun wanting to teach him a lesson, he had long wanted to do so!

When he arrived at the so-called small bamboo house, he realized that it was already surrounded by five to six of Qin Yun's scoundrel friends. They were all students from the Imperial College.

Qin Yun snorted coldly and said, “Su Ergou, you won't be able to escape today! In the past, you whipped me. In a while, I'll beat you back ten times, a hundred times!”

The group of people did not care about morals and rushed toward Su Ergou.

They still did not understand how powerful Su Ergou was.

Su Ergou could beat up a few hooligans on the streets. How could these tender-skinned Imperial College students be his match?

The fourteen-year-old bully had shown them the power of a young man.

Su Ergou had beaten a group of people to the ground, so Qin Yun naturally could not escape. Su Ergou beat him up until he cried for his parents.

If things had only progressed to this point, it would not have been a big deal.

However, just as Su Ergou was beating Qin Yun up, the half-built bamboo building behind him collapsed.

Countless wooden sticks and bamboo poles rolled down from the beams, instantly pressing everyone down..

Chapter 352

The few of them were pressed to the ground by countless wood and bamboo sticks. They screamed and wailed continuously. However, because this area was remote and had the reputation of being haunted, almost no one passed by even in broad daylight.

Therefore, it was useless to howl.

Qin Yun was scared out of his wits. As he pushed against the weight on his body, he shouted at the top of his lungs, “The few of you! Hurry up and save me! Hurry up! I'm about to be crushed to death!”

It wasn't that they didn't want to save him, but they couldn't even protect themselves!

They were also completely suppressed!

Who would have thought that this small bamboo building would collapse just like that?

The small bamboo building was originally built as a three-story building. The shelves were built high, so one could imagine how terrifying it would be if all the materials collapsed.

One of the students soon lost feeling in his leg.

“Liu Shen, you're bleeding!”

His companion beside him said to him.

His expression changed. “Where, where is the blood?”

His companion turned to him and said, “Leg… your leg is bleeding!”

Liu Shen was scared to death.

His leg was bleeding, and he was completely unaware…

Not only was this not comforting at all, but it also filled his heart with fear!

He began to cry loudly, “Someone… help!”

Su Ergou was the only one who did not cry for his parents.

It was not that he was not afraid. After all, he was only a fourteen-year-old youth. How could he see through life and death?

However, he'd been stumbling around since he was young, and he knew best that shouting in this sort of situation wouldn't be of any help, and it would instead exhaust his physical strength.

His chest hurt from the pressure, and his waist and abdomen gradually felt numb.

He could only move his arms.

However, he could not move the layers of wood on his body.

Finally, Su Qi, Su Yu, and the others arrived.

There were a total of four people — two brothers, Young Master Zha,ng and a coachman.

The few of them were stunned when they saw the “ruins” in front of them.

Su Yu was shocked. “How could this be?”

Su Qi's expression turned solemn. He heard the wails and howls of Qin Yun and company, but he did not hear Su Ergou's voice.

Young Master Zhang stammered, “I… I'm not sure… It's none of my business… I didn't do it…

Su Yu glared at him.

The two brothers walked around the ruins.

Su Yu shouted, “Ergou! Ergou, can you hear me?”

When Qin Yu heard Su Yu's voice, his dim eyes regained their luster. “Third Cousin! It's me! Save me, Third Cousin!”

Su Yu could not be bothered with him!

Just as he was about to step on a piece of wood, Su Qi raised his arm and grabbed him. “Be careful! Don't step on it!”

As he spoke, he gestured for Su Yu to look to the side.

Su Yu's gaze followed the piece of wood under his feet and extended all the way up. It was not difficult to discover that all the wood and bamboo poles were intertwined. As the saying went, a slight move would affect the entire body.

If he was not careful, it might cause a second collapse.

He broke out in a cold sweat and carefully avoided the piece of wood.

The two of them continued to call Ergou.

Young Master Zhang also shouted.

He was a bastard, but he had never thought of taking Su Ergou's life. Moreover, at this juncture, if he did not help save him, he would be beaten to death by the Su brothers.

Su Yu grabbed Su Qi's wrist. “Second Brother, there seems to be movement at the bottom. They're too noisy and can't hear clearly.”

Su Qi immediately said coldly, “All of you, shut up! If anyone dares to howl again, no one will be saved!”

Everyone obediently shut up.

Su Yu added, “Ergou, I'm not talking about you. Continue shouting.”

Su Ergou, who didn't want to call out was silent.

Su Ergou's chest was pressed down, and it was difficult for him to breathe or make any sound. He used his knuckles to tap the bamboo pole with his hand bit by bit.

Su Qi and Su Yu lay on the ground and listened.

Su Yu was the first to hear the commotion. He pointed and said, “Second Brother! Over there!”

Su Ergou was pressed at the bottom, not far from Qin Yun.

This was not surprising. When the small bamboo house collapsed, Su Ergou was beating up Qin Yun.

They had found Su Ergou's location, but what came next was an even more serious problem. How should they save Su Ergou?

Young Master Zhang kindly moved the topmost piece of wood, planning to save a student who was pressed to the ground.

Just as he was about to succeed, he slipped and the wood pressed down, hitting a bamboo pole instead.

Screams came from the students below.

Su Qi said sternly, “Don't act rashly!”

Young Master Zhang was so frightened that he slowly put down the log and retreated to the side with a pale face.

Su Qi said to the coachman, “Go inform my brother. He should be at the entrance of the palace at this time.” 'Yes!” “Third Brother, inform Grandfather.”

“Alright!”

The coachman and Su Yu did not take the carriage. Instead, they unloaded the carriage and rode a horse each. They split up. Young Master Zhang said shakily, “I'll go find someone too.”

He had really gone to look for someone, not to flee.

His father was from the Ministry of Works, so he should know how to save them.

Su Qi stood at the side and talked to Su Ergou to keep him awake.

Su Ergou did not need to respond to his every sentence. He just needed to tap the bamboo pole with his knuckles every once in a while.

Su Xiaoxiao and Su MO had just left the palace when they bumped into the coachman who came to look for them.

The coachman did not wait for the horse to stop. He almost fell off the horse.

“Eldest Young Master! Young Miss! Something bad has happened to Young Master!”

The two of them did not sit in the carriage anymore. They left on a horse each!

The Imperial Palace was completely different from here. They did not know that such a thing would happen. The horse Su MO used to drive was mainly stable, and its explosive power and speed were not too fast. Even so, the two of them still left the coachman far behind.

They arrived at the scene of devastation.

Su Xiaoxiao frowned as she looked at the pile of ruins.

“Where's Ergou?” She asked.

“Big Brother! Cousin!”

When Su Qi saw Su MO, he finally found his backbone.

He said to the duo, “Ergou is suppressed at the bottom. Qin Yun is beside him while the others are at the other end.”

At this moment, Qin Yun also heard Su Mo's voice. He seemed to have seen a life-saving straw. “Eldest Cousin! Eldest Cousin, save me! Save me quickly!”

The fact that he could still shout so loudly showed that although he was also suppressed, it was not serious.

“Third Brother went to inform Grandfather. In addition, the people from the Ministry of Works should be here soon.” After Su Qi finished speaking, he lowered his head in shame.

It was because he did not take good care of Ergou that Ergou got into this trouble.

Su MO looked at the collapsed building with a complicated expression.

“Ergou, can you hear me?” Su Xiaoxiao asked.

It was the sound of Su Ergou knocking on the bamboo pole.

Su Xiaoxiao carefully lay down.

The siblings' gazes met in the intersecting gap. Su Xiaoxiao asked, “I see you. Are you in pain?”

Su Ergou knocked again.

It hurt.

He wanted to say, “Sister, Ergou is in so much pain..”

Chapter 353

Su Xiaoxiao was in pain too.

Her heart felt like it was being pricked by needles.

In her previous life, she had never felt this way.

She looked at the young man who was pressed under the ruins.

That was her younger brother. He was someone who would rather starve himself so she could eat her fill. He was also someone she had to protect with all her might in this life.

“Ergou, don't sleep, talk to your sister.”

Soon, the people from the Ministry of Works arrived.

Coincidentally, Young Master Zhang met his father on the way. When he found out that the people from the Ministry of Works happened to be erecting a building nearby, he hurriedly told him about the collapse of the small building.

The Ministry of Works was divided into four divisions: the Works vision, the Land Division, the Administration Division, and the Water Division.

Young Master Zhang's father was a physician in the Works Division.

The physician here was not a common doctor, but an official in charge of the

Ministry of Works.

The grade was not high at the fifth rank. However, it had real power.

Lord Zhang said, “Shouldn't we report this matter to the Imperial Capital? It was caused by a fight. It's a murder case.”

The division of responsibilities between the various government offices in the capital was very clear. They were not allowed to casually reach into other government offices. This was basic official etiquette.

Young Master Zhang said, “But that place has collapsed! It's fine for the people from the Imperial Capital to arrest them, but how would they understand if they were to touch those logs?”

He hugged his father's arm and wheedled, “Father, my biological father, I beg you. Hurry up and bring someone to take a look. If you're late, they'll be crushed to death…”

Lord Zhang called over a low-ranking official. “Go to the Imperial Capital and report the matter. Also, say that it was an emergency and the attic collapsed. Our Ministry of Works has also gone to the scene to repair it.”

“Yes!”

The low-ranking official accepted the order and left.

Lord Zhang said to his son, “There are many ways to become an official. You can't do whatever you want. Do you understand? You have to consider all aspects!”

Young Master Zhang pretended to understand. “Got it, Father! Let's hurry up and save them!”

When they arrived at the scene, the situation was not optimistic.

Due to the fact that Qin Yun was courting death, the moment he heard that the people from the Ministry of Works were here, he felt that he no longer had to rely on others. He shouted wildly and even moved his body a few times.

His actions caused the pressure in the attic to change. The already unstable foundation suddenly collapsed.

Everyone fell into a dark pit, and the wooden planks and bamboo poles on their bodies fell down.

The pit was filled with screams. Su Xiaoxiao's eyes trembled. “Ergou!”

Su Ergou let out a painful groan.

His chest was pinned by a broken plank, the head end of which pressed against his chin, forcing his entire head back, his throat pulled into a straight line, and his windpipe stretched to its limit.

The diastolic tension of the trachea was not as good as that of the blood vessels. It was so tense that it only needed a violent swallow to tear the trachea.

Su Xiaoxiao hurriedly reminded, “Ergou! Don't move! Don't swallow your saliva!”

Su Ergou looked at Su Xiaoxiao in fear.

He felt terrible…

Su Xiaoxiao looked coldly at Qin Yun on the other side and did not hide her killing intent. “Qin Yun, listen up. If you move again, I'll kill you right now before anyone can save you!”

In such a collapsed scene, the obstacles had to be removed one by one.

Su Xiaoxiao calculated the best path, but no one in the Ministry of Works believed her.

The Ministry of Works had its own ideas.

“You can't touch this pillar! You'll hurt my brother!”

This pillar was pressing down on a horn below. It was this horn that stabilized the wooden board on Su Ergou's body. Once the power of the horn was unbalanced, the wooden board would fall fiercely towards Su Ergou's chin, and his windpipe would be torn apart on the spot.

“It won't hurt your brother,” the people Ministry said.

“Yes, it will!” Su Xiaoxiao told him about the horn and the wooden board.

The people from the Ministry of Works looked around but did not see Su Ergou at all.

Su Xiaoxiao didn't rely on her eyes to see. She determined Su Ergou's location through his breathing and calculated the length and angle of each piece of wood to determine his current situation.

Not to mention that no one in the Ministry of Works could do such a shocking calculation, even if they found an arithmetic officer from the Hanlin Academy and took out an abacus, they might not be able to calculate it in such a short period of time.

The people from the Ministry of Works felt that she was talking nonsense.

Su MO looked at Su Xiaoxiao deeply and said to the people from the Ministry of

Works, “Do as my sister says.”

Lord Zhang sighed. “Eldest Young Master Su..

Su MO pulled out his sword and pressed it against his neck. “I'll say it again. Do as my sister says!”

Lord Zhang's expression changed drastically. “Young Master Su, are you going to attack the imperial court's officials?”

Young Master Zhang hurriedly advised, “Let's talk things out! Let's talk things out!”

Lord Zhang asked, “If something happens, can Master Su bear the responsibility?”

Su MO said seriously, “I'll bear the consequences alone. If I'm not qualified, the

Marquis of Zhenbei will bear the consequences!”

It was matter of life and death… Young Master Su did not believe that the Ministry of Works had so many experienced officials. Instead, he believed in a little girl…

Lord Zhang said earnestly, “Young Master Su, it's not that I want to go against you, it's just that… not only are there people from your Su family, but there are also people from the Qin family…”

If something really happened, even if Su MO said that he wanted to take responsibility, he would still be held accountable.

“What if I agree?”

Xiao Zhonghua walked over with a solemn expression.

It wasn't strange for Jing Yi to be with him.

The strange thing was that Wei Ting had also come.

Seeing the unrelated people appear together, Lord Zhang suspected that he had seen wrongly.

Wei Ting didn't even look at Lord Zhang and walked to Su Xiaoxiao's side.

“Where is Ergou?”

He asked.

Su Xiaoxiao pointed at Ergou.

Wei Ting listened attentively to Su Ergou's breathing. His sharp gaze swept across the layers of layers. He calculated in his mind and nodded. “That log really can't be moved.”

Hearing Wei Ting's words, Xiao Zhonghua's expression was both surprised and complicated.

Although he was unwilling, he had to admit that Wei Ting was definitely not mistaken.

Xiao Zhonghua's status as a prince came in handy.

Lord Zhang did as he was told and had his people bring over ropes and tools. Under Wei Ting's command, they moved the wooden planks, bamboo poles, and other heavy objects one by one.

Jing Yi was highly skilled in martial arts and had great strength. When he encountered difficult opponents or tricky opponents, he would personally take action.

The sky darkened bit by bit, making it more difficult to save her.

Xiao Zhonghua ordered people to light torches around them.

However, the flames could only illuminate the surface and they could not see the scene in the pit at all.

Wei Ting and Su Xiaoxiao did not panic at all.

This was because the two of them had already memorized every piece of wood, every wooden board, and the location of every broken bamboo pole in their minds.

The first student to be rescued was bleeding profusely and had lost all feeling in his legs.

He was already unconscious.

The people from the Ministry of Works quickly sent him to a nearby medical center.

Soon, the second, third, fourth…

The five students were all rescued, leaving only Su Ergou and Qin Yun behind.

Lord Zhang asked in embarrassment, “Who do we save first…”

“Su Ergou.”

The few of them said in unison.

Lord Zhang was dumbfounded.

No, it was fine if the little girl and Eldest Young Master Su wanted to save Su Ergou. After all, they were family.

What was up with Lord Wei and Young Marquis Jing?

The wooden board on Su Ergou's body was not easy to move. Someone needed to go down and hold the wooden board. Otherwise, wherever he moved, the wooden board would slip and tear Su Ergou's windpipe.

A new problem arose.

Who could get down there?

Chapter 354

The gap between the wood was too small. Wei Ting and Xiao Zhonghua's figures were not suitable, and neither was Su Xiaoxiao.

There were a few thin officials in the Ministry of Works, but they had long exhausted their stamina. It was impossible for them to support that thick wooden board.

“I'll go down.” Jing Yi stepped forward without hesitation.

He was 17 years old this year. The young man was thinner than an adult man.

In order to minimize the friction and collision between the wooden boards, Jing Yi took off his robe and underwear. He was only wearing a pair of long pants.

His ears were slightly red and he didn't dare to look at Su Xiaoxiao.

Wei Ting took a rope and handed him the other end.

“I'll hold on. You go down.”

Jing Yi nodded and didn't refuse Wei Ting.

As no log here could withstand the force, and the ground could not withstand the vibration of his iumD. he could onlv lower himself bit bv bit through the
rope.

It was pitch-black below.

He followed Su Ergou's breathing and found his location.

Su Ergou was bleeding. Jing Yi could smell the strong smell of blood. He reached out and touched the sticky blood.

His movements became even more careful.

He found a suitable place to stay.

Next, he only needed to lift the wooden board and put the rope on it. Then, Su Ergou would be saved.

The wooden plank was much heavier than everyone had imagined. The reason was that the bottom was made of iron nails and iron plates, and it was impossible to see from above.

At this time, Jing Yi was also glad that he had come down. If it were those people from the Ministry of Works, even if they didn't use up all their strength, they wouldn't be able to move it at all.

Su Xiaoxiao knelt on the side and looked down. “Jing Yi, be careful of Ergou's windpipe. He is at his limit.”

“Okay.”

Jing Yi used one hand to push the port of the wooden board to stop it from pressing down on Su Ergou's chin. His other hand slowly lifted the wooden board.

Finally, the weight on Su Ergou's chest disappeared.

He got a long-lost breath.

“Jing Yi, how is it?” Su Xiaoxiao asked.

Jing Yi answered, “The wooden board is up. Ergou seems to be bleeding. We have to go up as soon as possible.”

Wei Ting said, “Put the rope on the wooden board.”

Jing Yi nodded even though the people above could not see it at all.

The space below was very narrow, and he could not press down on Su Ergou. His movements were limited, so the requirement for strength was greater.

Fortunately, his strength and martial arts were good. He successfully tied the rope that had been circled to the wooden board.

“That'll do!” he said to Wei Ting.

Wei Ting tightened his grip on the rope.

The most dangerous wooden board was fixed, and the wooden board and bamboo pole could be moved away.

The people from the Ministry of Works continued to move the items.

Su Xiaoxiao found a rope and prepared to go down.

She wanted to see if Su Ergou had any fractures or other injuries that could not be moved at will. Then, she would decide which method to use to get Su Ergou up.

Wei Ting frowned and said, “This doesn't look like an ordinary foundation. An ordinary foundation isn't so deep. Be careful.”

Su Xiaoxiao nodded.

She wrapped the rope tightly around her waist and asked for an oil lamp from the Ministry of Works.

Wei Ting had already grabbed a rope in his hand. No one in the Ministry of Works could free up their hands. They could not count on that weak Young Master Zhang.

“Give it to me.” Xiao Zhonghua walked over and extended his hand. Su Xiaoxiao handed him the other end of the rope.

“Fu su.”

Wei Ting ordered.

The secret guard flashed out.

Xiao Zhonghua's lips twitched.

The secret guard grabbed Su Xiaoxiao's rope and put her down bit by bit.

He approached Wei Ting and whispered, “Young Master, is it really good to expose me like this?”

Wei Ting said indifferently, “Grab your rope.”

The secret guard replied, “Oh.”

Young Master was really not giving Xiao Zhonghua any chance to perform.

Su Xiaoxiao crawled through the gaps between the wood again and again. She was extremely glad that she had lost weight. If she was still that 200 -pound fatty, she would probably not be able to crawl out no matter what.

“Be careful.'

When she landed, Jing Yi helped her up.

Although the wooden board was suspended, for the sake of caution, Jing Yi still used one hand to support the wooden board.

“I'm fine,” Su Xiaoxiao said.

Behind Jing Yi was a long groove. He took a step back.

Su Xiaoxiao knelt down in front of Su Ergou and placed the oil lamp on the side.

She touched Su Ergou's forehead. “Ergou, can you hear me?”

Su Ergou responded weakly.

Su Xiaoxiao gently touched his throat again. His throat had been pulled for too long, and he could suffer from a throat spasm.

After being pushed against the wooden board for so long, his chin was broken and swollen.

Because he couldn't swallow for a long time, he drooled a lot.

Su Xiaoxiao took out a handkerchief and carefully wiped him clean.

The back of his head was injured. Su Xiaoxiao tore off the sleeve of her undershirt and bandaged it for him before going back to stitch it up.

In addition, because his chest had been pressed for too long, there were large contusions even though there were no fractures.

There were also several cuts on his legs.

He had maintained this posture for too long, and his body was stiff. When he recovered a little, he could hang him up with a rope.

Su Ergou looked at his sister weakly, his eyes turning red.

Su Xiaoxiao held his hand and caressed his forehead. “It's okay, I'm here.”

Su Ergou continued to look at her.

Su Xiaoxiao understood. “Brother-in-law is here too.”

Su Ergou's forehead moved slightly as he pressed against his sister's palm, like a child waiting for salvation.

Jing Yi looked at the siblings without saying a word.

Most of the wood had been removed.

Next was the heaviest and thickest wooden plank that Jing Yi was holding.

Wei Ting began to pull the wooden plank. Su Xiaoxiao untied the rope around her waist, took off her robe, wrapped it around the rope, and tied it to Su Ergou.

Everything was going smoothly, but at this moment, something unexpected happened.

A group of masked men in black holding swords suddenly appeared around them. Without a word, they slashed at everyone present.

The first to bear the brunt was a low-ranking official from the Ministry of Works. He had just worked with his colleagues to pull up a broken beam. His shoulder was injured, causing him to slip out of his grip.

THUD!

The beam slammed into the wooden board hanging over Su Ergou's body!

Su Xiaoxiao rushed over and used her body to protect Su Ergou.

The wooden board did not fall.

Wei Ting grabbed it tightly!

Swish! Swish!

Two arrows flew through the air and aimed at Wei Ting's heart and the rope in his hand.

Wei Ting stomped his foot, and a piece of wood flew into his hand.

With a twist of his fingertip, the wooden piece split into two. He waved his hand and shot the wooden piece out. Two arrows were hit and deviated from their direction.

Fu Su, who was at the side, was also ambushed by the arrows. He had no choice but to put Su Ergou down first.

Su MO said to Wei Ting, “There are archers in the forest. I'll deal with them! ”

Su Qi said, “Big Brother! I'll go with you!”

Jing Yi looked up and said, “Wei Ting, I can take it. Let go!”

Wei Ting took a deep look at Jing Yi in the pit and released the rope.

Bai Ze and Hong Luan appeared.

“Young Marquis!”

Blood oozed out of Jing Yi's shoulder from the wooden board. He said to the two of them, “Don't worry about me! Protect Cousin!”

This was a difficult battle. The other party had a large number of people, and all of them were well-trained. It was obvious that they were not ordinary rassassins.

If it was just Wei Ting and a few experts, it would not be difficult to break out of the encirclement. However, there were so many people from the Ministry of Works present, and none of them knew martial arts.

Someone approached the foundation, grabbed a rock, and smashed it down.

The wooden board was hit hard, and Jing Yi felt a sharp pain in his chest. A fishy taste rose in his throat.

He steadied himself and didn't move.

That person smashed a few more rocks and was about to throw a torch down when he was kicked away by Wei Ting!

At this moment, Su Xiaoxiao felt that something was wrong.

The floor beneath her feet… was cracking!

The angle of the wooden plank was rather tricky. One end was pressed against a wooden stake beside Qin Yun, while the other end was placed against Jing Yi's neck.

The place where Jing Yi was standing happened to be an upright groove.

The wooden plank could not be moved from left to right. It could only move up and down. It was impossible to move up because there was still a lot of wood that had not been moved.

Su Ergou and Su Xiaoxiao were right below.

The cracks on the floor became more and more severe. Except for the small area where Jing Yi was standing, it was difficult for more people to be in the same place.

No one knew what dangers lay below…

Jing Yi made a prompt decision. “You and Ergou come up to the wooden plank!”

“No way!”

The wooden plank was already very heavy. With her and Su Ergou, not to mention whether Jing Yi could withstand it or not, if he was not careful, Jing Yi's feet would crack.

Jing Yi said seriously, “If the two of you fall down, I will also call. My internal strength is very good. I can withstand it. You two come up!”

Crack!

The hole cracked under Su Ergou's body, and the ground collapsed with a bang.

Su Xiaoxiao quickly grabbed Su Ergou and grabbed the wooden plank with her other hand.

Chapter 355

A rotten stench rose from below, and Jing Yi almost vomited.

Su Ergou, who was already feeling terrible, threw up.

Su Xiaoxiao also felt uncomfortable with this stench. She even felt suffocated.

Her body's reaction made her palms sweat.

Fortunately, she had put on the pair of gloves from the pharmacy before coming down. They were anti-slip, hard, and saved energy.

On the ground, the battle between the two sides continued.

There were too many of them, and Bai Ze and Hong Luan were gradually entangled.

A masked expert quietly approached Xiao Zhonghua from behind.

He raised his sword and slashed at Xiao Zhonghua.

With a flash of the sword, Xiao Zhonghua reacted too late.

The other party's sword struck the top of his head.

At the critical moment, an even faster and sharper longsword flew over in the air and suddenly shot into the other party's heart.

The man in black screamed and fell to the ground.

Xiao Zhonghua looked at the person who saved him in disbelief.

Wei Ting did not have the time to chat with him. He pulled out another long sword from the corpse by his feet and continued to join the battle.

The name of the youngest son of the Wei family was not just for show. Wherever he went, the men in black fell one after another.

There were only a few men in black left, and they could not help but want to retreat.

Coincidentally, the sound of horse hooves could be heard not far away.

It was the imperial guards.

They rode their horses into the crowd and dealt with the last few assassins cleanly.

Xiao Zhonghua frowned.

The imperial guards dismounted and bowed to Xiao Zhonghua. “Your

Highness!”

He cupped his hands at Wei Ting. “Lord Wei!”

Xiao Zhonghua explained, “Lord Wei also heard that something happened in the Ministry of Works, so he came to take a look. We met halfway.”

In other words, Wei Ting was not with him.

Xiao Duye looked at the mess of corpses on the ground. He frowned and looked at the imperial guards at the side. “Don't you know how to leave one alive?!”

The leader of the imperial guards cupped his fists and bowed. “I was afraid that they would hurt the Third Prince, so I was a little too heavy-handed. Please punish me, Your Highness!”

Xiao Zhonghua said, “Forget it, Big Brother. It's not their fault.”

Xiao Duye placed his hands behind his back and snorted coldly, “Third Brother is pleading for mercy on your behalf. This time, I've let you off. If there's a next time, I won't let you off!”

Wei Ting ignored them and turned around to look for Su Xiaoxiao.

The current situation was that Su Xiaoxiao couldn't grab the rope or tie it to Su Ergou.

Jing Yi couldn't move either.

Wei Ting took a rope and tied it to himself.

“Young Master! Let me go down!” Fu Su stopped him.

Wei Ting took a new bundle of rope and handed the other end of both ropes to

Fu Su. Then, he went down without a word.

The stench below was nauseating.

His expression didn't change. He first tied a rope around Su Xiaoxiao and then carried Su Ergou over. “Fusu, pull the rope.”

“Yes, Young Master.”

Fu Su pulled Su Xiaoxiao up.

The second person to be dragged up was Su Ergou.

Just as Fu Su was slowly pulling the rope, a mechanism suddenly appeared on the side wall and a flying knife flew towards Su Ergou's head.

It was impossible to block it.

Wei Ting suddenly reached out to protect Su Ergou's head.

His palm was pierced by the flying knife. Fu Su's expression changed drastically. “Young Master!”

Wei Ting said calmly, “I'm fine. Pull him up.”

The third was Jing Yi.

Wei Ting was not in a hurry to come up. He wanted to go down and take a look.

Fu Su was really impressed. Young Master, go ahead and court death. The matriarch would fly into a rage again.

“Torch.'

Wei Ting said indifferently.

Fu Su helplessly threw a torch at him.

Wei Ting caught it steadily.

Fu Su said worriedly, “Be careful, Young Master. Don't burn the rope!”

“Put it down,” Wei Ting said.

Fu Su lowered it bit by bit.

Due to the ground collapsing, many pieces of wood had fallen.

Under these broken pieces of wood, Wei Ting actually saw white dead bones.

More than one.

They were either sitting, lying down, or curled up. It was as if they had suffered immense torture when they were alive.

Qin Yun was the last to be rescued.

His situation was not much better. When the second floor collapsed, many pieces of wood fell. He was hit and fainted on the spot.

Qin Yanran arrived around the same time as the people from the Imperial Capital.

A fights among the students actually involved a shocking murder case. The Imperial Capital felt that they were about to lose their reputation.

Qin Yanran, on the other hand, had gone to Benevolence Hall to buy a thousand-year-old ginseng for Qin Jiang. She had bumped into a patient who was being treated there and only found out that something had happened to Qin Yun after asking around.

The scene was bustling with activity. There were people tending to their injuries and investigating cases. Qin Yun was lying alone at the side, covered in blood. No one cared about him.

“Ah Yun!”

Qin Yanran walked over quickly and knelt on one knee. She shook Qin Yun's shoulder. “Ah Yun, it's me! Wake up… Don't scare me… Wake up, Ah Yun…”

Qin Yun did not react.

Qin Yanran was burning with anxiety. She wanted to call for a doctor, but when she turned around, she saw Su Xiaoxiao bandaging a junior official's wound.

She walked over with a cold expression. “Didn't you see my brother's injuries?

Why didn't you treat him?”

Su Xiaoxiao continued to bandage the injured official.

The patient had lost a lot of blood. If she did not stop the bleeding, the consequences would be unimaginable.

Qin Yanran gritted her teeth. “I'm talking to you! My brother's injuries are very serious! Don't use your position to take revenge!”

The lowly official knew that his status was low and could not compare to the Oin family's flesh and blood. He also advised, “Miss Su, go and take a look at Young Master Qin first. I'm fine.”

Su Xiaoxiao said seriously, “You injured your artery. How can it not be a problem? I'm only bandaging you now. I still have to go to the clinic to stitch it up later.”

She finished bandaging and moved on to the next one.

Wei Ting's hand injury had yet to be treated.

The blade was stuck in his palm.

He said that he was a general and would not die from such a small injury.

He wanted her to save others first.

“Su Daya!”

Qin Yanran reached out to grab Su Xiaoxiao.

Su Xiaoxiao slapped Qin Yanran hard across the face!

Qin Yanran was stunned!

“You should be glad that I'm very busy now and don't have the time to find trouble with you siblings!”

After a wave of assassinations, these officials and low-ranking officials who did not know martial arts suffered heavy casualties.

Every moment delayed was a life.

Su Xiaoxiao knelt down on one knee and supported the leg of a young official.. She pressed the bone back, “Scram!”

Chapter 356

Qin Yanran didn't expect Su Xiaoxiao to be so rude to her.

Her relationship with Su Xiaoxiao was awkward and they didn't get along. She knew that.

Even so, she did not expect Su Xiaoxiao to really attack her.

Wasn't this girl afraid of her bad reputation spreading and being despised by everyone in the capital?

The daughters of the capital cared a lot about their reputation. Even if they didn't like the other party, they couldn't make a move easily. Otherwise, if they were known as fierce daughters, it would be difficult for them to find a good in-law in the future.

She said the name through gritted teeth. “Don't you think you've gone too far? I just wanted you to save my brother. It's fine if you didn't save him, but why…”

A trace of coldness flashed across Su Xiaoxiao's eyes. “Why don't you know? Your brother courted death and harmed so many people. In the end, you still have the cheek to ask me to save him? Qin Yanran, where did you get your cheek to do so

Her words were always so direct, not giving Qin Yanran any respect.

This wasn't the first time Qin Yanran had experienced her venomous tongue, but she was still so angry that she almost couldn't recover.

She turned her head and looked around, trying to get everyone to notice Su Xiaoxiao's rude behavior. Unfortunately, everyone was busy with their own things and no one paid attention to her at all.

Qin Yanran looked coldly at the chubby girl who came from the countryside and felt a strong sense of humiliation.

If not for her, she would still be the high and mighty daughter of the Protector Duke.

If not for her, she would still be the Third Prince's fiancée.

If not for her, her grandfather would still love her as much as usual…

It was her. She had stolen everything from her!

Now, she was here to harm her and Qin Yun!

Did she have to be so ruthless?!

Her heart was too vicious!

Su Xiaoxiao ignored Qin Yanran's emotional fluctuations and continued to
bandage the wounded.

She did not have enough herbs on hand, so she could only give the patients a simple hemostatic treatment before getting someone to send them to the medical center.

Not long after, Qin Canglan rushed over without stopping.

He was not at the racecourse today. He and the Old Marquis had brought Su Cheng to challenge the mechanism array. Su Yu had spent a lot of effort to find them.

When Qin Yanran saw Qin Canglan riding his horse over in a valiant and domineering manner, her eyes could not help but flicker.

In the past, her grandfather had protected her and Ah Yun the most. Whoever touched a strand of their hair, her grandfather would seek justice for them.

She felt wronged. “Grandfather…”

Unexpectedly, Qin Canglan did not even look at her. He got off the horse, threw the reins casually, and rushed towards Su Xiaoxiao.

“Daya!”

He stepped forward, agitated. “Are you all right? Are you hurt?”

Su Xiaoxiao was squatting on the ground and bandaging the patient's thigh. When she heard this, she lowered her head and looked at the blood all over her body. “Oh, it's not me. I'm not injured.”

Qin Canglan heaved a sigh of relief and asked again, “Where's Ergou? Yu'er said that the bamboo house collapsed and he was pinned down.”

Su Xiaoxiao pointed to the east. “Over there.”

Qin Canglan followed the direction of her finger and saw Su Ergou lying on the ground and Wei Ting who was guarding Su Ergou.

Wei Ting was only wearing a thin inner robe. At this moment, half of his outer robe was spread under Su Ergou and the other half was covering him.

Su Ergou was lying down and he was sitting. Wei Ting's uninjured hand was placed on Su Ergou's forehead.

Qin Canglan's eyes darkened as he quickly walked over.

He did not want to look at Wei Ting, but Wei Ting had the ability to not be drowned in the crowd. No matter how dark it was, or how many people there were, or how worried Qin Canglan was, he could not help but notice him.

Wei Ting's face was covered in dust. There were a few abrasions on his forehead and neck. His plain white undergarment was stained with a lot of blood. It was unknown if it belonged to someone else.

The way he guarded Su Ergou, as well as Su Ergou's imperceptible dependence on him, made Qin Canglan deeply jealous!

Qin Canglan sat down on the other side of Su Ergou and glared at Wei Ting.

“Take it away!”

Wei Ting removed his hand from Su Ergou's forehead.

Su Ergou opened his eyes and was relieved to see that Wei Ting was still around.

The injured Ergou was also a baby that needed comfort.

Qin Canglan was a boorish man who didn't know how to take care of others. He imitated Wei Ting's actions and placed his big, thick bear paw on Su Ergou's forehead.

Then, Su Ergou was knocked unconscious.

Qin Canglan was speechless.

Xiao Duye brought the imperial guards to the vicinity to eliminate the remaining assassins, while Xiao Zhonghua sent Jing Yi back to the Jing family. At this moment, the two princes were not around.

Qin Yanran wandered around Qin Yun for a while but did not attract Qin Canglan's attention. She gritted her teeth and got the coachman to move the unconscious Qin Yun onto the carriage.

Until she left, Qin Canglan did not even look at her.

In fact, Qin Canglan did not do it on purpose.

He really did not see her and Qin Yun.

Otherwise, he would have beaten him up no matter what.

Qin Canglan cleared his throat in embarrassment, “Ergou… will he be alright?”

Su Xiaoxiao came over to take a look. “One more slap and there's nothing we can do.”

Qin Canglan was like a big stupid bear that had done something wrong. He had nowhere to put his hands and feet.

Su Xiaoxiao said to Wei Ting, “Let me see your hand.”

Wei Ting asked, “Are they all bandaged up?” Su Xiaoxiao said, “They're all bandaged. The rest are minor injuries.”

Only then did Wei Ting take out his injured hand.

Qin Canglan glanced at it inadvertently, and then he froze.

Wei Ting's slender palm was pierced by a sharp knife, and blood was still dripping.

Was this kid injured?

Then he was still so calm just now as if nothing had happened.

From the looks of it, the blood on his body was all his?

He Imew that assassins had come here just now.

However, with this kid's martial arts, he shouldn't have been stabbed like this, right?

Su Xiaoxiao said as she bandaged Wei Ting's wound, “There's a big hole under the foundation. When Ergou was rescued, it triggered the mechanism. This knife should have stabbed into Ergou's head.”

Qin Canglan choked.

He was about to mock this kid for being flashy when he suddenly couldn't say anything.

Wei Ting was injured because of his precious grandson.

It could be seen how critical the situation was at that time.

If this blade were to really pierce into Su Ergou's head, he would definitely die on the spot. Not even an immortal could save him.

Qin Canglan looked at Wei Ting again with a complicated look in his eyes.

In the carriage.

Xiao Zhonghua personally opened the medicine bottle and sprinkled the healing powder on Jing Yi's badly mutilated left shoulder.

“Does it hurt?” he asked.

Jing Yi gritted his teeth. With a pale face and cold sweat, he said, “It doesn't hurt.”

Xiao Zhonghua sighed. “You've never cried out in pain since you were young.” Jing Yi didn't say anything.

“The First Prince is back.” Xiao Zhonghua continued to apply medicine for him.

JingYi frowned and said, “What a coincidence.”

Xiao Zhonghua's gaze was cold as he said, “Yes, what a coincidence..”

Chapter 357

Wei Ting's injuries were too serious. Su Xiaoxiao decided to go back to the medical center to operate on Wei Ting.

Su Qi had followed Su MO to chase after the archers in the forest. He had yet to return, so Qin Canglan was not worried about their safety.

With Su MO around, he would not let anything happen to his brother.

Wei Ting and Fu Su were in a carriage.

Su Xiaoxiao and Su Ergou took one carriage while the others rode horses.

Before getting on the carriage, Qin Canglan cleared his throat and said to Wei Ting in a seemingly unintentional manner, “Don't worry about Dahu and the others. The old monkey and Cheng'er have gone to Pear Blossom Alley.”

When Su Yu brought the news to the three of them, the first thing Qin Canglan and the Old Marquis thought of was to save Su Ergou. Only Su Cheng said, “They've all rushed to save Ergou. No one is looking after the children. Without the adults at home, the Dahu, Erhu, and Xiaohu will be afraid.'

Was Su Cheng not worried about Ergou?

It wasn't that.

However, he was not only a father, but also the grandfather of the three little fellows.

In his heart, he had long treated the three little fellows as his own grandchildren.

Ergou could be saved, but the children could not be left unattended.

While Wei Ting was risking his life to protect Su Ergou, Su Cheng was also doing his best to protect Wei Ting's sons.

Wei Ting nodded slightly. “Thank you.”

Qin Canglan sat on the tall horse, pulled the reins and said coldly, “Don't think that I'll accept you just like that. I still don't like you in some ways.”

Wei Ting: “Oh, just some.”

Qin Canglan glared at him. “A lot! Incomparably!”

This shameless guy!

After getting on the carriage, Fu Su drove the carriage in front. He turned around and whispered to Wei Ting behind the curtain, “Young Master, I was scared to death just now. Qin Canglan rode his horse over. I thought he was going to slap you to death.”

Wei Ting was speechless.

Fu Su said, “But this is good too. You saved his grandson. He should want to kill you less in the future.”

Wei Ting muttered, “Can you look forward to me being better?”

Yuchi Xiu didn't come today. He was sent by Wei Ting to protect the three little ones. Wei Ting thought that if he and Su Xiaoxiao went back late, he would let Yuchi Xiu bring the three little ones to the Wei family for a night.

This was a last resort.

Knowing that Su Cheng had returned, Wei Ting was not worried at all.

“Young Master, don't you think what happened today is very strange?” Fu Su said in a low voice. “That haunted house… so it's really haunted. There are so many corpses. I wonder how many wandering ghosts are out at night.”

At the thought of this, Fu Su felt his hair stand on end.

“And the child's skeleton… It's too scary…” “Young Master, who do you think did it?”

Wei Ting said, “It's hard to say.”

This was a major case. To date, no one in in the capital had heard of such a number of murders or missing persons.

There was no clue yet.

“This is the biggest case in the past ten years, right?” Fu Su said. “There are so many dead people…”

When they left, more than twenty sets of bones had been moved. It was said that there were still more below. The people from the Imperial Capital would be busy tonight.

Fu Su's thoughts were very jumpy. One second, he was talking about the case, and the next, he was talking about tonight's assassination.

“Young Master, there was a chance to kill Xiao Zhonghua today. Why did you save him?”

Wei Ting said, “If I don't save him, an assassin will immediately jump out tomorrow and accuse me of being the mastermind.”

“Ah…” Fu Su suddenly understood. “So tonight was a trap for Young Master?”

Wei Ting said indifferently, “It's a trap set up for Xiao Zhonghua and me. No matter what happens to either of us, the other will become the mastermind. If both of us die, everyone will be happy.”

There was another point that Wei Ting did not mention.

Jing Yi saved his wife and brother-in-law below. In return, he would also protect his cousin's life.

Therefore, she didn't owe Jing Yi a favor, he would return it.

Fu Su did not think so deeply. He only felt that there was something strange about tonight's incident. “The First Prince appeared at such a coincidence and even killed the few of them who were left alive the moment he arrived…

Wei Ting snorted. “Which of Emperor Jingxuan's sons is obedient?”

Number One Hall was especially busy today.

Half of the injured people at the scene of the accident today went to Benevolence Hall, and the other half came to Number One Hall.

Physician Fu, Little Weizi, and the others were so busy that their feet didn't even touch the ground. Even Manager Sun, a layman who didn't know anything about medicine, took on the task of boiling water and other miscellaneous tasks.

The carriage stopped at the entrance of the Number One Hall.

Ah Zhong went in to get a stretcher and carried Su Ergou to Su Xiaoxiao's courtyard with Chef Cao.

Su Xiaoxiao nodded and said to Wei Ting, “Come to my courtyard too.”

When Little Weizi, who was getting medicine for the patient, heard this, he looked at his boss and the young man in a daze.

“The room is full.” Su Xiaoxiao said seriously, “You and Ergou will stay in the same room. I will treat your injuries.”

Little Weizi said to himself, “That's right, the room is full.”

He did not suspect anything and continued to dig into the medicine.

“Treat Ergou first.” Wei Ting said.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Okay.”

Su Xiaoxiao washed her hands and disinfected them. She put on sterile gloves and opened the first aid kit. She took out saline and cotton swabs and disinfected the wound on the back of Su Ergou's head.

Su Ergou slowly woke up. “Sister…”

Su Xiaoxiao took out the anesthetic. “The wound is a little long. I'll stitch it up for you. Don't be afraid. It won't hurt.”

Wei Ting walked over and held Su Ergou's hand.

Su Ergou closed his eyes and fell into a deep sleep.

After Su Xiaoxiao gave Su Ergou a local anesthetic, she started to suture.

Her movements were clean and efficient. There were a total of three stitches, and the suture was completed in a short while.

“It's your turn.” Su Xiaoxiao said to Wei Ting.

Wei Ting turned his face away and said coldly, “I'm a general. I don't need stitches for such a small injury.”

Su Xiaoxiao took out a new anesthetic and hit the nail on the head. “You're actually afraid, right?”

This was not the first time Su Xiaoxiao had treated his injuries. When he was picked up by Su Cheng to be his live-in son-in-law, he was already seriously injured.

However, at that time, he was not conscious and did not have a deep understanding of the specific treatment process.

Looking at the syringes and needles on the plate, his scalp went numb!

“Heh, how is that possible…”

Before he could finish speaking, Wei Ting's body tensed up.

It was a little troublesome to treat Wei Ting's injuries. Su Xiaoxiao wanted to draw her scalpel, but she had to be careful not to hurt the nerves in his hands.

Otherwise, once his right hand was crippled, his career as a general would end.

Su Xiaoxiao was fully focused. She grabbed his palm with one hand and the hilt with the other. She pulled it out without hesitation!

She still had to suture when she needed to.

In the end, Lord Wei could not escape the fate of being pressed down and stitched up.

After treating the injury on her hand, Su Xiaoxiao suddenly took out another needle.

Wei Ting's body trembled. “Is there more to come?”

Su Xiaoxiao raised the syringe and said, “To prevent infections.”

After being pierced, this kind of deep closed wound was most suitable for the growth of anaerobic bacteria.

Wei Ting: “I don't do injections.”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Take off your pants!”

Chapter 358

Chef Cao cooked a pot of dumplings and scooped two bowls for Little Weizi to send to Su Xiaoxiao.

As soon as Little Weizi reached the door, he heard his boss say unyieldingly,

“Take off your pants!” “I'm not taking it off.”

The other party refused.

The boss threatened, “Are you going to do it yourself, or should I take it off? If I take it off, it will be more merciless. My hands are heavy, so I might take off too much at once.”

Little Weizi felt terrible.

He felt that his worldview had been severely impacted!

Their cute little boss turned out to be a… pervert?!

No wonder she wanted to bring the patient back to her room. It turned out that she wanted to take advantage of him…

“I didn't expect you to be such a boss!”

Today, these two bowls of dumplings could not be delivered no matter what. Xiao Weizi returned to the hall in shock.

Qin Canglan gave the little alchemist a strange look. “What happened?”

Could it be that Ergou's injuries had changed?

Xiao Wei Zi stammered, “Boss took off his pants…”

Qin Canlan was puzzled.

Qin Canglan went to the small courtyard.

“Are you going to take it off?”

“No, I'd rather die than take it off.”

Su Xiaoxiao stepped on the stool with one foot and said aggressively, “It seems that you won't give in if I don't give you a hard time!”

What kind of female hooligan was this?

Qin Canglan's expression was indescribable.

Could it be that… his granddaughter had been “bullying” Wei Ting all along? Was Wei Ting the one who had been raped?

Their shadows were cast on the window paper by the candlelight. Su Xiaoxiao was a bully. She pulled someone's belt— Qin Canglan could not bear to look at it.

When Su Xiaoxiao finished dealing with Wei Ting and Su Ergou's injuries and came to the hall, Qin Canglan couldn't help but say, “He was injured because of Ergou. Take it easy… You can bully him after he recovers.”

Su Xiaoxiao was dumbfounded.

There were too many patients at the clinic tonight, and the doctor was too busy. Su Xiaoxiao did not even have time to take a breather before she went to treat other patients.

Looking at her busy little figure, Qin Canglan felt extremely emotional.

Huayin had once wanted to do something that she could not do, but the little girl had done it.

But at the same time, he felt an indescribable sadness.

The children of the poor take charge early.

How much had she suffered to become so independent?

After Su Yu returned, he first went to Pear Blossom Alley to report to the Old Marquis and Su Cheng. The two of them immediately carried the sleeping children over.

The Old Marquis's entered the house first.

In his arms…

He lowered his head and counted the spiral on the child.

One.

This was Dahu

Erhu and Xiaohu were with Su Cheng and Su Yu respectively. The two of them were not as fast as him, as he had used his Qinggong to come over.

He shot a strange glance at Qin Canglan, who was sitting on the steps at the door. He couldn't wait to go in and see Su Ergou.

Just as he took a look, he retreated with a shocked expression and said to Qin Canglan, “Why is that kid from the Wei family here?”

Qin Canglan gave him a speechless look.

The Old Marquis seemed to have woken up from a dream. “Ah, he's Cheng'er's son-in-law. I forgot.”

Wei Ting and Su Ergou were both on IV drips. Su Ergou had fallen asleep. Although Wei Ting had lost too much blood and his vitality had been greatly damaged, he still maintained the vigilance that a general should have.

It was the Marquis of Zhenbei who came in just now.

Half a year ago, Qin Canglan and the Marquis of Zhenbei were the people he could not let down his guard against the most.

But now—

He closed his eyes gently.

The Old Marquis carried Dahu and sat down beside Qin Canglan. “Is Ergou alright?”

Qin Canglan shook his head. “There's no danger to his life for the time being.”

The Old Marquis asked, “What do you mean there's no danger to his life for the time being?

Qin Canglan said, “He had a few stitches on his head and his chest was squeezed. There are no obvious fractures, but we cant rule out a slight fracture.”

These were Su Xiaoxiao's exact words.

The Old Marquis was heartbroken.

“Fortunately, we have Daya.” Qin Canglan said, “I've seen his injuries. They are in a very dangerous area. In the past, there were soldiers in the military camp who were injured in the same place as Ergou. They couldn't be saved.”

Although it was just a few simple stitches, the infection rate was actually very high.

How many soldiers did not die in war or training, but in incurable pain?

Qin Canglan said seriously, “Daya is doing something very impressive.”

When he first heard that the lady was opening a medical center, he did not approve of it. The reason why he did not object was that he owed Daya a lot and did not have the right to object.The other reason was that he could not bear to do so.

But today, he saw those fatal injuries that were easily treated by his Daya.

He suddenly felt that in the near future, his granddaughter might change the fate of many Great Zhou soldiers.

The Old Marquis had personally experienced the little girl's medical skills. He had long seen that the little girl's medical skills were actually above that of a physician.

Physician Fu's attitude towards the little girl was not like a master's attitude towards his disciple.

The little girl seemed to be hiding some secret.

However, since the little girl did not say anything, he did not ask.

Mo'er should have noticed it too. He did not mention anything either.

To them, it was enough that the little girl had Huayin's bloodline.

No matter how big the little girl's secret was, the Estate of Zhenbei would do their best to protect her.

Thinking of something, the Old Marquis asked again, “What about Wei Ting? What's wrong with him?”

Su Yu only said that his cousin had returned and did not mention Wei Ting's condition.

He had hung those strange bottles on Wei Ting and Ergou before. He knew that they were hung by the sick.

Qin Canglan told him about Wei Ting saving Su Ergou.

The Old Marquis was in disbelief. “… pierced through by the entire thing?”

Qin Canglan held his right wrist and nodded. “The right hand was stabbed.” Wei Ting often used his right hand.

To a general, this hand was more important than his life, because once a general lost it, he would no longer be able to hold the sword in his hand.

The Old Marquis fell silent.

Su MO and Su Qi returned to the medical center in the latter half of the night.

After chasing the archers in the dark, they first returned to the scene of the incident. The bones were still being dug up. The magistrate told them the whereabouts of Qin Canglan, Su Xiaoxiao, and the others.

They immediately rushed over.

The two of them were covered in blood. It was obvious that they had experienced a terrifying battle.

“Are you hurt?” the Old Marquis asked.

Su MO said, “It's just a small injury. It's fine. Where are Ergou and Daya?”

“Daya is treating the injured in the room. Ergou is inside.” The Old Marquis said and pointed to the room behind him.

The two brothers did not understand why their grandfather and granduncle chose to sit on the steps outside instead of staying in the house.

But they couldn't say anything.

Su Yu went in to see Ergou.

Today's incident was caused by Qin Yun's provocation. No one expected that it would involve so many things, from the corpses hidden under the attic to the ambush by assassins in the middle of the night…

No matter how he thought about it, it felt very strange.

Su MO recalled, “Those assassins seem to be here for Wei Ting and the Third Prince.”

This was very intriguing.

Su MO took out a token from his pocket and handed it to the two of them. “I wanted to leave him alive, but he escaped. This is the token that fell from his body.”

“Ine person wno can escape rrom your nanas IS not an oramary assassin.” '1 ne Old Marquis took the token and handed it to Qin Canglan after reading it. Qin Canglan rubbed the Luan totem on the token and frowned.. “This is…”

Chapter 359

The dragon chair in the throne room was never clean.

Back then, Prince Nanyang and Prince Ruyang were biological brothers from the same mother. They both ended up fighting to the death. These princes today were not born from the same mother. They would only fight more fiercely than the previous generation.

Su MO was puzzled. “His Majesty is in his prime. Isn't it too early to fight now?

Aren't they afraid that His Majesty will be furious when he finds out?”

Emperor Jing Xuan was still young, and his sons were fighting. Why? Were they cursing their father to meet the previous emperor as soon as possible?

The Old Marquis said, “For such matters, as long as one of them can't sit still, the other brothers will also become impatient.”

Su MO looked at the token in Qin Canglan's hand and studied it carefully. “So who was the first to be unable to sit still?”

At the Protectorate, Qin Yun was sent back to his courtyard.

His injuries were extremely serious. Originally, Qin Yanran planned to go straight to the Benevolence Hall, but when she arrived, she realized that the Benevolence Hall was filled with people.

She had no choice but to bring him back to the residence.

Qin Jiang heard the news.

Ever since Wei Ting broke his ribs, he had been recuperating in his residence and did not ask about his children. He did not expect that there would be such a problem for his son after not keeping an eye on him for a month. Looking at his son covered in blood, Qin Jiang was furious. “Who did this?”

Qin Yanran sobbed, “Su Ergou… Su Daya…”

Half of Qin Yun's injuries were caused by Su Ergou, while the other half were caused by the wood.

However, in Qin Yanran's opinion, the main culprit was Su Ergou, and Su Daya had to bear responsibility because she had left him in the lurch.

Qin Jiang immediately called for a long-time attendant. “Take my invitation and go to the palace to invite Imperial Physician Hu!” He left.

Qin Jiang asked Qin Yanran, “What exactly happened?”

Qin Yanran told her father what she had heard from the students in the directorate and some of the injured officials.

“Little brother, he… has repeatedly suffered losses at Su Ergou's hands. After Su Ergou went to school, he stole his little brother's identity as a little prince. Those who were originally on good terms with him all stopped interacting with him. Little brother was indignant, so he called Su Ergou out and planned to teach him a lesson. I think that little brother only wanted to scare Su Ergou, not really do anything to Su Ergou. However, Su Ergou was ruthless to little brother. ”

“Later, that abandoned pavilion collapsed and my brother and Su Ergou were buried under it. They only saved Su Ergou and deliberately delayed until they finally brought my brother up…

“My brother's injuries were so serious, but no one treated him. I went to beg Su Daya to treat my brother, but she slapped me…”

Tears fell from her eyes.

She didn't mean to lie. She just thought that this was the truth.

Qin Jiang was so angry that his fists cracked.

It was said that when people left, the tea would turn cold. He hadn't even left yet, and all of them were already bullying his children!

“Three days later… Three days later is the day Su Cheng and I will fight for military power… I will make him pay the price for his son!”

As the father and daughter were talking, there was suddenly a commotion outside.

“You can't go in there!” “Get that little bastard out here!”

It was Su Cheng's voice.

When Su Yu went to look for Qin Canglan and the Old Marquis, he only said that Su Ergou was pressed under the collapsed pavilion. After Su Cheng left, he told Qin Canglan that Qin Yun had brought him out.

However, Su Cheng was not stupid. He went to the Number One Hall to visit his son and casually exchanged a few words with the injured people from the Directorate.

“Qin Yun? Which Qin Yun?” Su Cheng asked.

The two supervisors looked at him strangely. One of them said, “Qin Yun from the Protectorate!”

Su Cheng only knew that the Marquis of Zhenbei had a relative who seemed to be a little prince. He did not associate this Qin Yun with that Qin Yun. He asked around for the location of the Protector of the High Duke's Public House, and then came the matter.

Logically speaking, ordinary people would not be able to break into the Protectorate.

But was he an ordinary person?

He was Qin Canglan's biological son!

The other servants didn't know Su Cheng, but how could Steward Cen, who often went to the racecourse, not know him?

Steward Cen did not stop him, nor did he allow the guards to hurt him.

Su Cheng was so focused on avenging his son that he did not notice Steward Cen. He grabbed a servant and asked where Qin Yun's courtyard was.

The servant looked at Steward Cen and obediently pointed the way.

Hence, Su Cheng barged into Qin Yun's courtyard as though he had entered an uninhabited land.

The servants in Qin Yun's courtyard were all his trusted aides, but they could not stop Su Cheng.

Su Cheng grabbed a large saber and entered the courtyard with a murderous aura.

“I'll go out and take a look. Stay in the house.”

After Qin Jiang finished instructing Qin Yanran, he stood up with a dark expression.

Qin Yanran hurriedly said, “Father, be careful!”

Qin Jiang snorted coldly. “I don't care about a barbarian who grew up in the countryside!”

Qin Jiang came to the corridor. The servants in the courtyard who did not know martial arts had all been beaten to the ground by Su Chengg.

Every injustice had its perpetrator and every debt had its debtor. Su Cheng did not kill this group of servants, but this fellow in front of him was not necessarily the case.

“Who are you?”

He felt very annoyed when he looked at him!

He really wanted to beat him up!

Qin Jiang said coldly, “You broke into my son's courtyard and you're asking me who I am?”

Su Cheng pointed his saber at him. “Oh, that little bastard is your son! No wonder you look so annoying! If the upper beam is not straight, the lower beam would be crooked. You're not a good person to raise such a little bastard!” Qin Jiang narrowed his eyes dangerously.

Su Cheng said angrily, “It's the father's fault for not teaching his son. I'll teach you a lesson first before going to teach that little bastard a lesson!”

Recently, Su Cheng had been bombarded by Qin Canglan and the Old Marquis. Not only was he a punching bag, but he also had to be an accompanying student. His literacy had increased.

“It was your son who beat up my son today!”

From the beginning to the end, Su Cheng did not say that he was here to seek revenge for Su Ergou, nor did he mention that he was Su Ergou's father.

He felt that there was something wrong with the other party's words, but he was in a fit of anger and could not react for a moment.

Su Cheng said, “Of course! It doesn't matter whose son it is!”

Qin Jiang said coldly, “Then how dare you come and cause trouble? If you want to find someone, I should be the one looking for you!” Su Cheng said arrogantly, “I'm right here. Look for me!”

Qin Jiang was speechless.

Su Cheng did not care so much. His son's injury was caused by that little bastard Qin Yun. It was his son's good fortune that he did not die. It was not a reason for him to forgive that little bastard!

Su Cheng didn't waste his breath on Qin Jiang and slashed at him with his saber.

Xu Qing flashed out and drew his sword to block Su Cheng's saber.

With a crisp clang, sparks flew between the weapons.

Xu Qing felt his forearm go numb.

His eyes widened in disbelief.

When Su Cheng beat someone up in the alley, he clearly did not have such skills!

It had only been a month since they last met, but Su Cheng was already so terrifying!

Chapter 360

Xu Qing had no doubt that if this person had grown up in the Protectorate, under the joint nurturing of the Qin and Su families, he would have become a powerful expert.

This was putting aside the fact that not all generals were fierce and brute force was not everything on the battlefield. Whether one was resourceful or not was the key to leading troops into battle.

As Qin Jiang watched the two of them fight, a trace of surprise flashed across his eyes.

It was not that he did not know that Qin Canglan and Su Shuo had been personally teaching Su Cheng for the past month. However, in his opinion, Su Cheng had been delayed in the countryside for 30 years and had long missed the best opportunity to practice martial arts. Now, no matter how hard he tried, it was useless.

He suddenly realized that he might have been wrong.

Su Cheng inherited Qin Canglan's excellent aptitude. He had extraordinary talent.

Most of the gaps in this world were not created by hard work. What really determined the outcome… was talent.

Of course, it would be a lie to say that Su Cheng did not work hard. During his years as a cowherd, he did all kinds of work to fill his stomach. In order not to be bullied, he learned all kinds of tricks.

Therefore, even if he did not receive the true nurture of Qin Canglan and Old Marquis Su like Qin Jiang, Su Cheng's foundation was not wasted.

Qin Jiang subconsciously touched the bandage wrapped tightly under his clothes.

Three days later… he had to win.

If Su Cheng was so troublesome, then…

He gave Xu Qing a look.

Today, it was Su Cheng who came knocking on his door. If he wanted to kill him, he could not let his guard down. Even if he made a fuss to Emperor Jing Xuan, Qin Canglan would have nothing to say!

Xu Qing understood Qin Jiang's hint.

If he wanted Su to suffer an injury that could not be seen from the outside, it would be best if it was an imperceptible internal injury.

Xu Qing received Su Cheng's sword. His eyes flashed as he changed his move.

He no longer purely defended, but began to take the initiative to attack.

Su Cheng suddenly realized that this kid's martial arts had become higher. Was the other party so good at fighting?

Xu Qing's martial arts had always been reserved. Su MO had investigated him. He was a saber artist, but in order to disguise his identity, he had always used a sword that he was not very good at.

No one had ever seen him use a saber, so they did not know how powerful this person was.

Xu Qing blocked Su Cheng's path with his sword. He raised his left hand and slapped Su Cheng's chest!

This palm strike would definitely injure Su Cheng's internal organs!

“Aiya…'

Su Cheng suddenly fell to the ground without a care for his image.

Xu Qing was stunned, and the wind from his palm struck empty air.

What kind of move was this…

Before Xu Qing could finish his sentence, Su Cheng stabbed him in the back.

This was also an extremely ugly move. To put it bluntly, it was a sneak attack, and it was a little ugly.

However, it was precisely because of this that Xu Qing fell for it.

Damn!

What kind of f*cking fighting style was this?!

Xu Qing looked at the small knife on his right leg and started to doubt his life.

He was Great Zhou's Protector Duke, Qin Canglan's legitimate son. Why did he use such a despicable move?

He was really a dog!

Su Cheng raised his long legs. “I'll kick you!”

He kicked the dumbfounded Xu Qing away!

The servants in the courtyard could not bear to watch.

Xu Qing's martial arts skills were not inferior to Su Cheng's. He had never seen such an unpredictable fight. For a moment, his mind and body could not react.

He fell heavily at Qin Jiang's feet.

Qin Jiang frowned and stepped forward to ask, “Are you alright?”

Xu Qing's body stiffened. He looked at Qin Jiang in pain and gritted his teeth. “Master, you stepped on the knife.”

Qin Jiang looked down and saw that his foot had just stepped on the handle of the knife that Su Cheng had stabbed into Xu Qing's thigh.

This was equivalent to giving Xu Qing a second stab, and it was on his original

Qin Jiang quickly raised his foot.

Xu Qing coldly pulled out the knife and stood up. He ignored the blood that gushed out and looked at Su Cheng with a sinister gaze.

“You piss me off.”

He threw away the sword in his hand and pulled out the saber at his waist.

“I'm getting serious. ”

“Xu Qing, don't hurt him too badly. Don't overdo it.”

Qin Jiang was not thinking for Su Cheng. However, if he made it too obvious and Emperor Jing Xuan asked, it would be difficult to explain.

Xu Qing said coldly, “It's not too much to break one of his arms, right?”

Qin Jiang thought that Xu Qing's fracture was a fracture, but he did not expect Xu Qing to slash down with his saber.

Qin Jiang's eyebrows twitched!

Was he going to cut off Su Cheng's arm?!

He would be questioned!

“Xu Qing!”

It was too late for Qin Jiang to stop him.

Xu Qing's movement technique was unbelievably fast, and his saber slashed down heavily at Su Cheng's right arm.

Clang!

A long sword suddenly appeared under Xu Qing's saber!

Su MO forced Xu Qing back with a single strike. He turned around and firmly protected Su Cheng behind him.

Qin Jiang heaved a sigh of relief.

“Xu Qing! What are you doing!”

He shouted.

Xu Qing wanted to attack again, but when he heard this, he glanced coldly at Su Mo. He held his knife and stepped on the blood on the ground to return to Qin Jiang's side.

Su Cheng's eyes lit up. “Young Master Su, you're here?”

Young Master Su? Qin Jiang frowned.

Su Mo's gaze swept across Qin Jiang and Xu Qing. He turned to Su Cheng and said, “Let's go back first. I promise you that I will definitely take revenge for Ergou.”

Qin Yun had caused Su Ergou to become like this. Qin Canglan and the Senior Marquis had long wanted to drag Qin Jiang and his son out to beat them up.

Needless to say, that little girl's eyes were filled with killing intent.

But now was not the time.

When the competition was over, they would seek justice for Ergou.

“Ergou woke up and is looking for Father.” Su MO added.

When he heard that his son was looking for him, Su Cheng decided to let that little bastard off first and teach him a lesson next time!

Qin Jiang frowned thoughtfully as he watched the two of them gradually disappear into the night.

“Just now, did Su Cheng call Su MO Young Master

Xu Qing was silent for a moment before answering, “Yes.”

Qin Jiang was puzzled. “Strange, why does Su Cheng call him that?”

No one would address their juniors as Young Master. This was clearly the address of an outsider.

Qin Jiang muttered to himself, “Could it be that… Su Cheng still doesn't know his identity? Qin Canglan didn't tell him?”

But that didn't make sense.

Qin Canglan couldn't wait to expose the truth to Emperor Jing Xuan. He couldn't wait to let Su Cheng return immediately. Why didn't he tell Su Cheng

Qin Canglan couldn't wait to expose the truth to Emperor Jing Xuan. He couldn't wait to let Su Cheng return immediately. Why didn't he tell Su Cheng about his background?

Xu Qing said nothing.

He did not request to leave to treat his injuries.

Qin Jiang gathered his thoughts and turned to look at him. He asked, “What happened just now?”

Xu Qing cupped his fists and said, “I was so angry that I forgot my limits. Please punish me, Master.”

Qin Jiang said coldly, “Fortunately, Su MO appeared. Otherwise, if you cut off Su Cheng's arm in front of me, the consequences wouldn't be something we could bear!”

Xu Qing lowered his head and said, “I'm sorry.”

The Imperial Physician that he had invited had arrived. It was not Chief Physician Hu. Chief Physician Hu was treating the Empress Dowager and could not leave the palace. It was an Imperial Physician surnamed Li.

Qin Jiang turned around and left. Without looking back, he said, “Let Imperial Physician Li treat your injuries later.”

Xu Qing said, “Thank you, Master..”

Chapter 361

After Su Cheng and Su MO left Qin Yun's courtyard, they walked towards the east gate.

Su Cheng was anxious to see Su Ergou and walked in front.

Su MO put away his sword and followed behind him silently.

His visit to the residence today reminded him of something. The competition was in three days, but they had yet to tell his uncle about his background. Could it be that he had to compete with Qin Jiang in a muddle-headed manner?

This was not going to work.

Because when that day really came, even if they kept their mouths shut, the people present would not have any scruples.

What if Uncle found out about his background from someone else and triggered his childhood memories? Would he fall into a coma again?

What should he do?

Should he stop everyone from talking, or find a suitable time to tell Uncle before that?

Su Mo's head hurt. He narrowed his eyes. Su Cheng was gone!

Su MO hurriedly looked around and realized that they had unknowingly arrived at his grandaunt's courtyard when she was alive.

...

Su Cheng stood at the door in a daze, looking at the tightly shut courtyard door with a blank expression.

Su MO opened his mouth. “Uncle…”

Su Cheng pushed open the courtyard door.

Su MO paused.

The furnishings in the courtyard had not been changed. It was the same every day for thirty years. Steward Cen would bring people to sweep, trim the flowers, and repair the roof when necessary.

But they would not move anything without permission.

The swing set in the front yard was already stained with rust, and the stone table stools at the side were also showing signs of erosion.

The crabapple flowers bloomed beautifully, but they were not fragrant.

The koi tish in the small pond changed batch after batch but the number and size were the same as thirty years ago.

There was a small waterwheel on the edge of the pond.

Su Cheng walked over and shook the controller.

The waterwheel rattled to life.

His memories seemed to be spinning as strange images flashed through his mind.

A three-year-old child squatted beside the waterwheel and shook it with all his might. “Mother, the waterwheel is so fun! ”

The woman lay on the rattan chair and leisurely nibbled on a snack. “Stop playing. Come and rest for a while. Look at how sweaty you are.”

The little boy said, “But I'm not tired! I still want to play!”

The scene changed. The little boy was four years old. He ran over and said to the woman sitting on the rattan chair eating fruits, “Mother, why isn't Father back yet?”

The woman glanced at him speechlessly. “Your father just left, okay?” The little boy tilted his head. “But I think he's been gone for a long time.”

“Son, who's the most beautiful woman in the world?”

“Mother!”

“Che'er!”

“Dad!”

The little boy was picked up by a burly man in armor.

The man smiled. “Did you listen to your mother at home today?” The little bean nodded vigorously. “Yes, yes! I'm very obedient!”

“Didn't make your mother angry?

“No, no! My mother is the most beautiful and kindest woman in the world. Why would she be angry with her own son?”

“Rascal! Did you break my bracelet again?! How many bracelets have you broken this month?”

The woman grabbed the feather duster and rushed out. “I'm going to smash your butt today!”

The little bean trembled. “Okay, she's a little angry.”

The scene changed. The sky was dark and gloomy. It was no longer that warm and lively courtyard.

On the mountain path, they encountered a pursuit. He was pushed into the cold lake by the woman.

The sword pierced through the woman's body.

“Mother!”

He fell to the bottom of the lake in pain and despair.

Su Cheng had a splitting headache. He covered his head and fell to the ground.

Su Mo's expression changed. “Uncle… Uncle… Uncle!”

“What did you say? Su Cheng fainted?”

Qin Jiang had just come out of Qin Yun's room when he heard the servant's report.

The servant replied, “Yes, I saw it with my own eyes.”

“How did this happen?” Qin Jiang muttered.

When Su Cheng left, he was still full of energy. It couldn't be Su MO who knocked Su Cheng out.

cun Jiang asKea, “wnat nappeneac wnere you ramtf”

The servant shook his head. “I don't know. I only saw that person enter Grand

Madam's courtyard from afar. When he came out, he had already fainted. Young Master carried him out of the residence.”

Su MO would not let anything happen to him. He had also entered Su Huayin's courtyard before, so there was no danger.

So… why did Su Cheng faint?

Could it be…

Coupled with the way Su Cheng addressed Su MO, Qin Jiang had a bold guess.

Su Cheng did not know his background, not because Qin Canglan and the others did not want to tell Su Cheng, but because Su Cheng could not accept Su Huayin's death.

Su Cheng couldn't take the shock.

“Ha, haha!”

“Heaven help me! Heaven help me!”

As long as he used his background to provoke Su Cheng, would he have to worry about Su Cheng not falling?

“Qin Canglan, I don't care how you and Su Shuo nurture Su Cheng. I've found Su

Cheng's Achilles heel!” “I will definitely win the competition in three days!” “The military power is mine!”

Su MO brought Su Cheng back to the medical center.

Su Xiaoxiao had just finished the last round of suturing. The patient's injuries were not serious. He could go back and remove the stitches in five days.

Little Weizi sent them to the carriage.

Su MO brought Su Cheng to a room on the second floor.

There were wards for patients on the first and second floors, but the first floor was full.

Su Xiaoxiao went upstairs to take Su Cheng's pulse.

While waiting for his pulse, Su MO told her about Su Cheng accidentally entering his grandaunt's courtyard. “He should have recalled the past.”

Su Xiaoxiao stuffed his father's arm back under the blanket. “It looks fine from his pulse. He'll be fine after a nap.” Su MO was relieved. “Are you done here?”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Almost.”

Su MO asked, “Do you need me to send you back to Pear Blossom Lane?”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “No, I'll rest at the clinic tonight. You've been busy all night.

Go back early.”

Su MO nodded.

After leaving the medical center, Su MO looked at the obscure sky and asked,

“Where is Fifth Brother?”

The secret guard who acted as the coachman replied, “Reporting to Eldest

Young Master, he's arrived in Qing City.”

Su MO said indifferently, “Send a messenger pigeon to our people in Qing City and ask Fifth Brother to arrive in three days.”

The secret guard said, “Eldest Young Master, you want…”

Su Mo's expression was solemn. “Qin Jiang… must have discovered something tonight. If he uses Uncle's weakness to deal with Uncle, Uncle can only lose.”

The secret guard scratched his head. “But… are we really going to let Fifth Young Master be adopted by the Duke? Wouldn't that hurt Fifth Young Master's heart too much?”

Su MO said indifferently, “No eggs are intact when the nest is overturned. Once my granduncle's lineage collapses, the Su family will not be far from destruction. This is not only for Uncle, but also for the entire Marquis of Zhenbei's Estate. Besides, why would he be sad? He's the one who doesn't want to be the Marquis' Estate's young master the most, right?”

Uh… Fifth Young Master had probably gone too far..

Chapter 362

Su Xiaoxiao returned to her courtyard.

There were two rooms in her courtyard, one for Du Juan and Ying'er, and one for her.

There were many patients tonight. Du Juan and Ying'er were already on night duty, so they gave up their room.

Ying'er went to change a new set of blanket and pillow.

She realized that her boss was slightly obsessed with cleanliness. Although it was not directed at her and Du Juan, it was her duty to take good care of her boss.

Su Xiaoxiao went to see Su Ergou first.

Qin Canglan stayed by the bed. As the Old Marquis had yet to recover, Su Xiaoxiao forcibly persuaded him to return to the residence.

“That kid left.” Qin Canglan said.

He was referring to Wei Ting.

Su Xiaoxiao replied, “Oh.”

“I didn't drive him away.” Qin Canglan had proven his innocence. No matter what, he was injured because of Ergou. He would not drive him away.

...

Su Xiaoxiao nodded and walked to the bed.

“How is your father?” Qin Canglan asked. “Same as last time,” Su Xiaoxiao said.

Qin Canglan felt guilty.

If he had not been careless back then, Huayin would not have been killed and Cheng'er would not have been stranded among the people.

Su Xiaoxiao touched Su Ergou's forehead. “Ying'er and the rest will come to patrol the night. You don't have to guard here.”

“I want to guard for a while.” Qin Canglan said. After a pause, he muttered, “The three little guys don't sleep well.”

He was afraid that they would kick Ergou.

When Qin Canglan said this, he lowered his head and grabbed his thick fingers like a resentful big stupid bear.

Su Xiaoxiao laughed.

It was very, very light.

Qin Canglan was stunned and turned to look at her.

Su Xiaoxiao said seriously, “I'll carry Dahu and the others over. You sleep with Ergou.”

Qin Canglan cleared his throat and whispered, “… My sleeping posture is even worse.”

Su Xiaoxiao carried the three sleeping little ones next door and asked Little Weizi and Ah Zhong to set up a small bamboo bed for Qin Canglan.

It was an extended bamboo bed.

Qin Canglan lay down and the bamboo bed was gone, and half of his leg was hanging in the air.

Su Xiaoxiao was dumbfounded.

Qin Canglan did not go to bed obediently.

After Su Xiaoxiao fell asleep, he quietly walked out of the courtyard and went to the second floor of the lobby like a thief. He sat in front of Su Cheng's bed until dawn.

Su Xiaoxiao didn't rest until dawn, so she woke up late the next day.

Students were not allowed to enter the Palace Academy late and leave early in the palace, so Qin Canglan entered the palace.

There were no court sessions on this day, and it was rare for Emperor Jing Xuan to sleep early.

He wanted to sleep.

However, Eunuch Fu woke him up.

Eunuch Fu reported sheepishly, “Your Majesty, the old Protector Duke requests an audience.”

Emperor Jing Xuan ignored him.

After a while, Eunuch Fu returned and said, “Your Majesty, the Marquis of

Zhenbei requests an audience.”

The two elders had long stopped attending court. Occasionally, they would see him after he left the court. They would never disturb his sleep early in the morning.

However, they asked to see him at the same time. Jing Xuan Emperor wondered if something big had happened.

He forced himself to be sleepy and dragged his exhausted body to the imperial study to meet the two of them.

“My dear ministers, what happened?” Emperor Jing Xuan's expression was very serious.

The Old Marquis cupped his hands. “Your Majesty, there was an accident in the western suburbs of the capital last night. I believe you've heard about it.” Emperor Jing Xuan wanted to say that he had not…

The Old Marquis: “It doesn't matter if you haven't heard about it.” Emperor Jing Xuan thought that the Old Marquis' next sentence was—I'll tell you.

The Old Marquis said, “I'm not here for this.”

Emperor Jing Xuan was dumbfounded.

The Old Marquis said solemnly, “My grandniece was also at the scene. She's been busy all night. I'm here to apply for leave for her.” The corners of Emperor Jing Xuan's mouth twitched.

“What about Minister Qin?” He looked at Qin Canglan.

Qin Canglan said seriously, “I'm also here to apply for leave for my granddaughter.”

Emperor Jing Xuan was speechless.

Did two veterans of the battlefield wake him up early in the morning just to let their little girl sleep in?!

Where was their regard for him?!

Do the two of them have any awareness of being officials?!

Also, do they know how scary it was for the two of them to enter the palace together?

He thought the country was going to war at the border!

Emperor Jing Xuan was furious and cursed in his heart!

Emperor Jing Xuan mercilessly threw the two of them out.

The two old things were so angry early in the morning that it was impossible for them to go back to sleep.

“Isn't the eldest back?” Emperor Jing Xuan asked.

Eunuch Fu hurriedly said, “Yes, His First Highness entered the palace last night to pay his respects to you. You should rest. His First Highness asked me not to disturb your rest. He will come to visit you again today.” Emperor Jing Xuan said, “Let him enter the palace.”

Eunuch Fu replied, “Yes.”

Emperor Jing Xuan paused and said, “Ask Third Brother to come too.”

Eunuch Fu bowed. “Aye, Your Majesty.”

The scene of the crime in the cellar was too shocking. Some were complete skeletons, while others had been destroyed for various reasons and needed a coroner to reconstruct the bones.

The coroner performed an autopsy on the spot and reconstructed the bones. He was busy until the next morning. Seeing that the number of onlookers was gradually increasing, the officials got someone to transport the bones back to the government office first.

In the end, the news still spread.

“Have you heard? That half-built attic is really haunted!”

“You believe that?”

“My uncle saw it with his own eyes! The bones dug out by the officials of the yamen were all over the ground. There were countless of them! There were dead people everywhere. How could it not be haunted?”

In the teahouse, everyone was discussing fervently. Some believed it, and some didn't. The scene was extremely intense.

Compared to this shocking case, the assassination last night did not cause such a huge commotion. After all, the assassination happened at night and not many people saw it.

“Why did the officials suddenly go there?” In the teahouse, a merchant asked.

A young man said, “It's said that two students from the Imperial College fought and destroyed the attic. They were pressed under the ruins and the officials rushed to save them. In the end, they dug out those bones. Many officials were injured. The Benevolence Hall is filled with injured people!”

“How did they get hurt?”

“I'm not sure…”

“Is it haunted…”

Some things became ridiculous as they spread.

Su Xiaoxiao knew nothing about this. She slept until noon.

In her daze, she felt something furry rubbing against her cheek.

She raised her hand and touched it.

One, two, three little heads.

“Mother!”

Dahu rubbed his head against her palm and called out.

Xiaohu also went to rub against it.

Xiaohu couldn't nudge her, so he decisively grabbed her other hand and placed it on his little head.

Su Xiaoxiao couldn't help but smile. She slowly opened her eyes and looked at the three cute little fellows. She greeted them in a lazy and hoarse voice.

“Dahu, Erhu, Xiaohu.”

The three of them lay beside her pillow and looked at her adorably.

The curtains in the room were drawn, and the light was very dim. However, from the bright gaps, one could tell that it was getting late. Su Xiaoxiao said softly, “Didn't you go to school today?”

“School's over!” Da Hu said.

“Only half a day of school today,” said Er Hu.

“Yeah!” Xiao Hu said.

Although the three little fellows did not see their mother before they went to bed, when they woke up, they found themselves lying on the same bed as their mother.

Their mood was instantly cured. They were extremely excited the entire day, but they were very obedient and did not wake their mother up.

Su Xiaoxiao looked at their sparkling eyes and could feel the joy in their hearts. Su Cheng protected their emotions and young hearts very well.

Who said that her father was a brute?

He was so thoughtful and considerate.

Su Xiaoxiao touched their little heads one by one and smiled unconsciously.

Xiaohu sat cross-legged and pointed at his little head. He said seriously and worriedly, “Uncle Ergou, there is blood!”

Su Ergou's head was wrapped in gauze after the stitches. Perhaps he had touched the wound during the night, causing blood to seep out.

Xiaohu frowned and said bitterly, “Uncle Ergou hurts!”

Xiaohu was the youngest, and his language abillity was the latest to awaken. Often, his two brothers would finish speaking before it was his turn. Then, he could only agree.

This time, he finally said everything before his two brothers.

Su Xiaoxiao got up, washed up, and went next door to see Su Ergou.

Physician Fu had already finished the IV drip for Su Ergou and changed the dressing on his wound.

The injury on the back of his head was the most serious. There were no signs of infection for the time being, and the other abrasions and scratches were not serious.

It was just that his back and chest had been pressed down for too long, and a large area of soft tissue contusions had appeared. It was not obvious yesterday, but today, it was a shocking sight.

Su Xiaoxiao had the urge to chop up Qin Yun.

“Sister.” Su Ergou woke up.

“What do you want to eat? I'll make it for you,” Su Xiaoxiao said.

Su Ergou wanted to shake his head, but just as he shook his head, the back of his head twitched in pain.

“Don't move!” Su Xiaoxiao held him down.

“Oh.” Su Ergou obediently lay on his side and did not move. “Sister, I don't want to eat. Don't cook anymore.”

Su Xiaoxiao touched his forehead. It wasn't hot.

She relaxed a little.

She glanced at Su Ergou and said, “Alright, I won't cook. I'll let Master Cao cook. What do you want to eat?”

Su Ergou replied “Sour soup dumplings.”

It was a good thing to have an appetite. Su Xiaoxiao went to the back room and asked Chef Cao to make a bowl of vegetable dumplings for Su Ergou. She didn't ask to add the sour soup. It was better to have something light to recuperate from.

The three little ones also hoped that their uncle would get better soon.

Dahu contributed his personal stash of sweets, and Erhu gave away his little lucky stone.

Xiaohu… Xiaohu had nothing.

He was so poor.

No, he had brothers! Two brothers!

He was really the smartest little tiger in the world!

He lay on the bed and said, “Uncle, I'll give Dahu and Erhu to you.” Su Ergou was speechless.

A moment later, Xiaohu to received his brothers' care package.

Xiao Hu covered his little butt and limped out of the house, feeling extremely aggrieved.

Why was he beaten up just like that?

Boohoo..

Chapter 363

On the other side, Qin Yun was in a terrible state.

Imperial Physician Li came to protect the Protectorate in the middle of the night, but he had not left until now.

Qin Jiang had not slept the entire night, and his eyes were dark.

He looked at his unconscious son on the bed and clenched his fists as he asked

Imperial Physician Li, “What happened? Why isn't Yun'er awake yet?”

Imperial Physician Li was also quite puzzled. “The injuries have been treated and the places that should be stitched up have been stitched up. There are no fractures. Logically speaking, he should have woken up.”

Qin Jiang frowned. “What do you mean?”

Imperial Physician Li sighed, “Lord Qin, your son… may have injured his internal organs…”

Qin Jiang asked, “Are you referring to internal injuries?”

Last night, he had wanted Xu Qing to injure Su Cheng's internal organs. In the end, Su Cheng was not injured, but his son was!

Imperial Physician Li said, “This is just one of the guesses…'

Qin Jiang's expression turned even uglier. “Are there other injuries?”

Imperial Physician Li hesitated for a moment before saying, “Your son might have… hit his head.”

Qin Jiang said coldly, “Imperial Physician Li, please explain yourself!”

Imperial Physician Li sighed and laid his cards on the table. “I'm helpless too.

Lord Qin, please find someone else.”

With that, Imperial Physician Li took his medicine box and left.

Qin Jiang punched the wall!

“Father.”

Qin Yanran had just returned from the Palace Academy.

Actually, she had not slept all night, but she did not dare to take leave, and no one went to apply for leave for her.

With a haggard face, she said softly, “Father, go and invite Imperial Physician

Hu again.”

Qin Jiang frowned and said, “Imperial Physician Hu is treating the Empress Dowager's illness. Are you asking me to snatch the doctor from the Empress Dowager?”

Qin Yanran explained, “I've asked around in the palace. Imperial Physician Hu was on duty last night. He should be resting in the imperial hospital at this hour.” “Is the information accurate?”

“Exactly.”

Qin Jiang quickly sent someone to the palace and found a eunuch he was familiar with from the Internal Affairs Bureau. He asked someone to send his invitation to Imperial Physician Hu to the Duke's Estate.

Imperial Physician Hu had intended to go.

As soon as he stepped out of the Imperial Hospital, she was stopped by Taozhi, who was Princess Jingning's palace maid.

“Imperial Physician Hu, where are you going?” Taozhi asked.

Imperial Physician Hu said politely, “I have something on. I'm going out of the palace.”

Taozhi said, “Aiya, I came at the wrong time. Her Highness is about to invite Imperial Physician Hu to Kunning Palace.”

Imperial Physician Hu quickly asked, “What happened to Princess Jingning?”

Taozhi sighed disconsolately. “Her Highness has a headache. She didn't intend to trouble the imperial physician at first, but who knew that His Majesty would come to Kunning Palace? His Majesty said, how could she have such a problem at such a young age? Hurry up and call the imperial physician to take a look.”

Emperor Jingxuan was mentioned. If Imperial Physician Hu refused to go, wouldn't he be embarrassing Emperor Jingxuan?

Imperial Physician Hu was not so stubborn and could only reject Qin Jiang.

Knowing that Imperial Physician Hu had been intercepted by Princess Jingning, Qin Jiang was furious but did not dare to say anything.

What was he going to do?

Was his son's life is more precious than a princess's?

Only Qin Yanran felt that something was wrong.

During class during the day, Princess Jingning was clearly fine…

Could it be that… Princess Jingning did it on purpose?

At the Wei family, Wei Ting had just returned from the palace.

Emperor Jing Xuan had already learned about what happened last night from Xiao Duye and Xiao Zhonghua, so he summoned Wei Ting to the palace to ask about it.

Wei Ting and Xiao Zhonghua arrived at the scene together. His words were the same as Xiao Zhonghua's.

Emperor Jingxuan instructed him to recuperate well before letting him leave.

As soon as Wei Ting entered the room, he felt a murderous aura assault his face. His wide sleeves and long hair surged without any wind.

He composed himself and wavered between going in and escaping for a moment. In the end, he chose to face it bravely.

He smiled. “Grandmother.”

Matriarch Wei sat on a chair, holding a walking stick that was almost as tall as a person.

She glanced at him coldly. “You still know how to come back?”

Wei Ting glanced at Fu Su, who was hanging his head like a little quail. He knew that this fellow had sold him out again.

Wei Ting decided not to hide it anymore. He lifted his wide sleeves and openly revealed his bandaged hand.

Seeing his right hand in that state, Matriarch Wei's eyes darkened!

“Wei Xichao! Do you want to die?!”

Matriarch Wei gritted her teeth.

Wei Ting came to Matriarch Wei's side and hooked a small stool over with one leg.

He sat down and placed his hand on the Dowager Duchess's leg, saying shamelessly, “Grandmother, Little Seven is in so much pain.”

“It hurts!”

Chapter 364

Wei Ting's hand hit the armrest and he let out a cry of pain.

Matriarch Wei panicked and hurriedly grabbed his wrist. “What happened to your hand? Did you hit your wound? You… Don't you know how to dodge?” Wei Ting said helplessly, “If I dodge, how can Grandmother calm down?”

“You…”

Matriarch Wei would really be angered to death by this unfilial grandson!

When Matriarch Wei learned from Fu Su that Wei Ting had injured his right hand, she felt like she had been struck by lightning.

Among the men in the Wei family, only Wei Ting was left.

If anything happened to him, the entire Wei family could only wait for their downfall.

Who would have thought that he would humiliate himself like this? He did not cherish his life!

“Is it worth it for an outsider?!”

Wei Ting thought about it seriously. “It doesn't seem worth it… I've already lost a hand. If she's still an outsider, I'll suffer too much…

Matriarch Wei was speechless.

This matter could not be clarified.

Wei Ting had never listened to anyone since he was young. He had more thoughts than his brothers. He only pretended to be obedient on the surface, but in reality, he was the most difficult to control.

No one could do anything when he made up his mind.

Matriarch Wei looked at his bandaged hand and asked in a low voice, “Does it really still hurt?”

“It hurts.” Wei Ting said.

Matriarch Wei snorted coldly. 'You're already a father, yet you're still complaining about pain? Aren't you ashamed? Endure the pain! You asked for

Wei Ting sighed. “Sigh, weren't you the one asking?”

Matriarch Wei ignored him!

Wei Ting deliberately placed his injured claw in Matriarch Wei's hand.

Matriarch Wei shook her head weakly and glared at him, pretending that nothing had happened.

Wei Ting's lips curled up as he got down to business with Matriarch Wei. “Grandmother, did you arrange this assassination?” Matriarch Wei said coldly, “Wei Xichao, are you rebelling?”

Wei Ting smiled. “I was just joking. I know it's not you.”

Matriarch Wei mocked, “If I arrange for the assassination, I'll have broken your arm no matter what!”

Look at this ancestral vicious tongue.

Wei Ting looked at his injured hand and said, “Actually, it's all thanks to such a serious injury. Otherwise, our Wei family might really have been stabbed in the back.”

If Wei Ting wasn't injured or seriously injured, people might suspect that he was injured on purpose. They might say that, in fact, he was the one who arranged for the assassination to kill Xiao Zhonghua.

However, his right hand might be crippled. No one could use the ruse of self-injury to this extent.

Matriarch Wei also felt that something was amiss.

Wei Ting continued, “Grandmother, there's something I haven't found a chance to ask you.”

Matriarch Wei said, “Speak.”

Wei Ting said, “The Marquis of Zhenbei was poisoned by someone, and the
clues point to the Protectorate. This… has nothing to do with you, right?”

Matriarch Wei said angrily, “So what if it's related? Qin Canglan killed your grandfather. The Qin and Su families are in cahoots. There's nothing wrong with me taking revenge on them!” Wei Ting looked at her hesitantly. “You didn't really do it, did you?” Matriarch Wei's lips moved.

She turned away. “I wanted to do it. Unfortunately, I didn't succeed.”

Wei Ting secretly heaved a sigh of relief. “You almost lost your granddaughter-in-law, do you know that?”

Matriarch Wei said, “Hmph, I'm not…'

Wei Ting counted with his fingers. “Dahu, Erhu, Xlaohu.” Matriarch Wei swallowed the last word with a dark expression.

“Why are you asking this?” She returned to the topic that had just been interrupted.

Wei Ting said, “The Marquis of Zhenbei was poisoned. At first, the clues pointed to the Protector Duke's Estate, but later on, Su MO investigated and actually found out about our Wei family.”

Matriarch Wei said, “Hmph! I didn't poison him!”

Wei Ting said, “That means that someone is sowing discord between our families. There are two possibilities. The first is that he's purely here to sow discord among the three parties. The second is that he only wanted to sow discord between the Qin and Su families at the beginning. Seeing that the relationship between the two parties is too strong and can't be broken, he framed our Wei family and wanted to make our relationship with the Qin and Su families worse.”

Matriarch Wei said coldly, “Is there a need to sow discord between the Wei family and the Qin and Su families? They've long fought to the death!”

Wei Ting seemed to be deep in thought. “That's right. Why is there a need to do this? Unless… the other party knows that I have a deep relationship with the eldest daughter of the Qin family and wants to stop us from turning from enemies to friends.”

Matriarch Wei frowned.

“Grandmother, have you seen this?” Wei Ting took out a folded piece of paper from his pocket.

He clumsily tried to open it with one hand for a long time.

Matriarch Wei took the paper with a dark expression.

On the paper was a Luan Token.

Wei Ting said, “Su MO obtained the token from an assassin last night.”

Matriarch Wei carefully examined the totem on the token, but she could not figure it out after a long while.

Suddenly, she turned the paper upside down.

The next second, her expression froze.

Su Xiaoxiao left Su Ergou's room and went to the lobby.

The patient's condition was still stable, and Physician Fu told her not to worry.

However, Su Cheng did not wake up. Physician Fu told her to go up and take a look.

She went upstairs, and the three little tails followed her.

The three of them entered Su Cheng's room.

“Grandpa, why aren't you waking up yet?” Xiaohu asked.

“Grandpa is tired.” Dahu said.

“Tired of what?” Xiaohu asked.

“Tired… he's tired! He's tired of taking care of you!” Erhu said.

Xiaohu put his hands on his hips and said angrily, “It's not tiring to carry Xiaohu! It's tiring to carry you! It's tiring to carry Dahu!”

Dahu muttered, ” What did I do now?”

Su Xiaoxiao took Su Cheng's pulse. There was nothing wrong with his pulse, and his temperature and blood pressure were normal.

As such, Su Xiaoxiao could only think of one possibility—he could not accept Su Huayin's death and subconsciously refused to wake up.

The competition for military power was in two days.. If he still could not wake up on that day…

Chapter 365

Su Yuan had been busy supervising the Divine Bow Camp and was not in the capital. He only received the news in the afternoon. He rushed to the medical center without stopping.

“How's Ergou?”

He walked into the hall and asked the Physician who was prescribing medicine for someone.

The doctor pointed to the backyard and said, “He's out of danger for the time being. He's in Daya's room.”

“Thank you, Physician Fu.”

Su Yuan immediately looked for Su Ergou.

Su Ergou felt like he had nothing to live for after being drooled on by the three little ones. He thanked Su Yuan for saving him from the fire and water, mainly water.

Su Yuan saw that Su Ergou's head was wrapped in gauze and his body was covered in gauze. His heart ached.

“How did Su Qi and Su Yu take care of you

His two sons were dead meat!

Su Ergou said, “It has nothing to do with them. I was the one who left with Qin

Yun.”

Su Yuan said coldly, “That's because they didn't look after you! I'll teach them a lesson later!”

Su Ergou said, “Uncle, don't teach Second Cousin and Third Cousin a lesson.” The word 'Uncle' broke Su Yuan's defense.

He was so excited that his body and mind were trembling. “Ergou… what… what did you just call me?”

Su Ergou didn't think there was anything wrong with how he addressed him, but Su Yuan's expression made him doubt himself.

Su Ergou thought for a moment. “Cousin… Uncle?”

Su Yuan immediately said, “No, just Uncle!” What cousin?

Aunt's son was his biological brother!

Su Ergou obediently addressed him as Uncle, which made Su Yuan overjoyed.

Su Yuan looked at the strong-looking Ergou and liked him no matter how he looked at him. He was much more pleasing to the eye than the few brats at home.

“Uncle.” The three little ones followed suit.

Su Yuan shuddered. “You don't call me uncle! You call me Big Grandpa!”

The three little ones: “Big Grandpa!”

“Aye, good boys.”

Su Yuan smiled and patted their heads. “Did I forget something…”

The three little fellows were Wei Ting's sons…

No, the three of them had already crossed the path in front of His Majesty. They were Daya's sons, so they belonged to the Su family.

It had nothing to do with Wei Ting anymore.

Yes, he had grandsons.

How nice!

Su Yuan started to tease the little boys.

After teasing the Dahu, he would tease Erhu; when he was done with Erhu, he would tease Xiaohu, making the three little ones dizzy.

Su Ergou had a look that said, ” Hello? There's a patient here?”

Su Ergou was in good spirits. Therefore, even though he was seriously injured, his situation was still optimistic.

What worried everyone was Su Cheng.

Even at night, he showed no signs of waking up.

Qin Canglan and the Old Marquis came over with solemn expressions. The two elders sat in front of the bed while Su Yuan stood at the side. He did not say anything.

“What did Mo'er say?” the Old Marquis asked.

Su Yuan said, “Mo'er went out of the city to pick up Fifth Brother. If he's fast, he can arrive tomorrow night.”

The morning of the day after tomorrow was the day of the official competition.

Qin Jiang was a scheming person. That day, Su Cheng called Su MO Young Master in the courtyard and later fainted in Su Huayin's courtyard, Qin Jiang had probably already guessed something.

Giving Su Cheng one of the boys from the Marquis of Zhenbei was the only way.

Su MO definitely wouldn't work. He was the eldest son, and there had never been a reason for him to be adopted.

Second Brother and Third Brother were not suitable either.

The safest way was to choose one from between the fourth and fifth.

Fourth Brother…

The Old Marquis and Su Yuan frowned at the thought of him.

In short, Qin Jiang had been Qin Canglan's son for twenty years and the Old Marquis's nephew for twenty years. He knew the situation of the Marquis of Zhenbei like the back of his hand.

He impatiently judged that Old Fifth was the best candidate to replace Su Cheng, so he would definitely think of ways to stop Old Fifth from returning to the capital.

At night, the officials of the Imperial Capital came to the medical center.

“Excuse me, is Miss Su here? We want to take her to the Imperial Capital for questioning.”

“Who are you taking to the Imperial Capital for questioning?” Su Yuan's deep voice sounded at the top of the stairs.

The officials looked up.

Three big shots walked down from upstairs.

Qin Canglan said, “Repeat what you just said.”

The Old Marquis said, “Speak louder. The Old Protector Duke and I are old, so we can't hear clearly.”

The officer almost peed his pants!

He was here to bring the witness for questioning, but why did he feel that if he really did, the grass on his grave would be two meters tall by next year?

He trembled and said, “I… I'm here to ask if… is Miss Su around. If she is, we can come and ask about the crime scene last night.'

Qin Canglan brushed his clothes and said indifferently, “Hmph! That's more like it!”

The officer who felt that he had saved his own skin said to himself, “My life is
too difficult…

Su Xiaoxiao was one of the witnesses last night. When the base collapsed for the second time, she and Su Ergou were the first witnesses in the basement.

Su Ergou was seriously injured and was unconscious. Su Xiaoxiao was awake.

The officer was asking Su Xiaoxiao about the situation as a routine procedure.

“It doesn't matter if you didn't see it,” the official said softly.

Their duty was to collect as many clues as possible, but they might not be able to gain anything every time they asked. This was how solving cases was. They were already used to it.

Su Xiaoxiao recalled carefully.

At that time, it was too dark below, and she really did not see anything.

But she smelled it.

She closed her eyes and tried to recall.

The thick, putrid corpse aura was nauseating.

But in between… there was a faint… fragrance.

“Fragrance?” The official felt his hair stand on end. He said with an accent, “They're all corpses. Why would there be corpse aura in their sacs?”

“Yes.” Su Xiaoxiao said confidently.

This body was abnormally sensitive. It was afraid of pain and heat, and didn't tolerate hunger. It often made Su Xiaoxiao suffer unspeakably. However, it had an advantage. It was too sensitive, so its five senses were sharper than those ordinary people.

The officer wrote it down.

The testimony of an eyewitness was not something that small fries like them could decide. The higher-ups would determine its authenticity and value.

“What kind of fragrance is it?” he asked.

Su Xiaoxiao shook her head. “I'm not sure. I've never smelled that fragrance before. But if I smell it again, I'll definitely be able to recognize it.”

The official wrote it down truthfully.

“Excuse me, may I ask your brother?”

What if there was a clue?

Su Xiaoxiao nodded.

The official went to the courtyard to see Su Ergou.

Unfortunately, Su Ergou was indeed confused at that time and could not provide any valuable clues.

After the officer left, Wei Ting came over.

He appeared behind Physician Fu like a ghost.

Physician Fu had just finished replenishing the medicine cabinet. When he turned around, he was shocked to see a living person standing in front of him!

“Lord… Lord Wei?”

Doctor Fu had lived in the Marquis of Zhenbei Estate and Pear Blossom Alley for so long, so he naturally knew Wei Ting's identity. Now, only Manager Sun, Little Weizi, and the others were still in the dark. “Physician Fu.” Wei Ting also greeted him. “I'm here to change the dressing.”

Physician Fu said, “Wait, I'll go get Daya.”

Wei Ting said, “Change it for me. Don't trouble her. Let her catch her breath.”

He sounded especially like a considerate husband.

Physician Fu did not suspect anything.

He brought Wei Ting to the room and took out the various herbs that Su Xiaoxiao had brought from the pharmacy. He disinfected Wei Ting's sutures, applied ointment, and wrapped the gauze again.

“Thank you.” Wei Ting thanked him and stood up to leave.

As soon as he reached the door, he saw a certain fat peacock holding an IV drip and a needle, looking at him playfully.

“Where are you going, Lord Wei?”

Wei Ting's hair stood on end as he tried not to look at the needle. “I have something urgent to do tonight. I'll come back later.”

Without another word, Su Xiaoxiao grabbed a certain someone's collar and dragged the disobedient patient back to the ward with a cold expression..

Chapter 366

The wise and mighty Lord Wei was pressed onto the bed and obediently received an injection.

Lord Wei's face darkened.

Physician Su thought for a moment. “Reward you with a kiss?”

Lord Wei said coldly, “One is not enough.”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Then, three?”

Lord Wei snorted and barely agreed.

In the next second, Su Xiaoxiao brought Dahu, Xiaohu, and Xiaohu in.

One, two, three, enough kisses!

Wei Ting was speechless.

When it was almost midnight, Xiao Zhonghua came to the clinic.

He was traveling incognito. No one in the medical hall knew his identity, but Wei Ting recognized him.

Wei Ting had just finished his IV drip and came out. He looked at him with interest. “It's so late. What's the matter, Third Prince?”

It was as if he was asking her why he had come to his house.

Xiao Zhonghua frowned. In the end, he did not argue with Wei Ting. Instead, he said seriously, “Something happened to Jing Yi.”

Jing Yi's shoulder had been injured by the wooden board last night, and he had already applied ointment on it. This kind of injury was not rare for young generals, and they thought that it could be healed with nourishment.

Nothing happened before noon, but in the afternoon, Jing Yi's injuries took a turn for the worse. During dinner, his fever did not subside and he fell into a coma.

The Jing Family went into the palace to invite Imperial Physician Hu. Imperial Physician Hu had just been released by Princess Jingning, but unfortunately, he was called over by the Empress Dowager.

When Xiao Zhonghua heard the news, he immediately rushed to Number One Hall.

Su Xiaoxiao brought her first aid kit.

Xiao Zhonghua helped Su Xiaoxiao lift the curtains of his carriage.

“Fu Su,” Wei Ting said calmly.

Fu Su drove a carriage over from the middle. He was driving the carriage of the medical hall, and the driver, Ah Zhong, was driven away by him.

Xiao Zhonghua looked at Wei Ting coldly.

Wei Ting raised his brows. “Physician Su has his own carriage, so there's no need to trouble Your Highness.”

Su Xiaoxiao glanced at Wei Ting speechlessly and got into her carriage.

Wei Ting also boarded the carriage.

Xiao Zhonghua asked, “Why are you going?”

Wei Ting said shamelessly, “I'm going to visit Young Marquis Jing. I'm also a general of the Great Zhou Dynasty like Young Marquis Jing. We should care about each other. Moreover, we were assassinated together last night. We fought with our lives on the line. I won't feel good if I don't visit.”

Xiao Zhonghua's mouth twitched.

Did they risk their lives together?

It was more of wanting each other's lives, right?

Never argue with Wei Ting. No one could win, and no one was thicker-skinned than Wei Ting.

Xiao Zhonghua boarded the carriage expressionlessly.

The group arrived at Family Jing.

When Jing Shengming and the Marquis of Weiwu saw Xiao Zhonghua bringing Wei Ting and a chubby girl over, they couldn't help but look surprised.

Just this month, Jing Shengming, who was over 60 years old, passed the title to his son. The current the Marquis of Weiwu was Jing Yi's father.

“Your Highness…” The Marquis of Weiwu looked at Xiao Zhonghua in confusion.

Xiao Zhonghua looked at Su Xiaoxiao and introduced her to the two of them. “Grandpa, Uncle, this is Physician Su. Her medical skills are brilliant. She was the one who cured my lung disease back in town.”

It was rare for a woman to practice medicine, but since she was brought over by Xiao Zhonghua, the two of them had to give her respect.

The two of them looked at Wei Ting.

It was fine if she was a physician. After all, she was here to treat Jing Yi's injuries. What was with this youngest son of the Wei family?

Wei Ting strode forward and said without changing his expression, “I'm here to offer my concern to Young Marquis Jing.” Jing Shengming was speechless

The Marquis of Weiwu was also dumbfounded.

Su Xiaoxiao carried the first aid kit into the house.

Jing Shengming and the Marquis of Weiwu wanted to follow them in, but Wei Ting stopped them outside.

The two of them looked at him in disdain.

What was wrong with this person?

He came to their house for no reason and blocked their way for no reason—

Xiao Zhonghua lightly coughed. “Physician Su doesn't like to be disturbed when treating patients.”

Jing Shengming finally reacted.

He invited Xiao Zhonghua to the study room. “Is Physician Su… that lass from the Qin Family?”

Xiao Zhonghua knew that he could not hide it from his grandfather. He sighed and said, “Yes.”

Jing Shengming said in shock, “Wei Ting married her in the countryside? So she's your…”

“Grandfather,” Xiao Zhonghua said softly, “The day after tomorrow is the competition between Qin Jiang and Su Cheng.”

Jing Shengming fell silent.

The wooden board that Jing Yi carried on his shoulder last night was not clean. He had only cleaned up the visible debris, but there were still many residual germs in the wound, which caused his wound to be slightly infected.

Su Xiaoxiao first took out saline and iodophor and carefully cleaned his wound.

He did not need to suture, so she did not inject anesthesia.

“Call out if it hurts,” Su Xiaoxiao said.

“It doesn't hurt,” Jing Yi said with his pale lips.

Su Xiaoxiao would still clean the wound even if he was in pain. It would be fatal if she didn't disinfect it. No matter how good the ointment was, it was useless.

After cleaning up, Su Xiaoxiao applied the ointment to him.

She did not make this herself. It was from the pharmacy. There was only one small tube, and she had only used a little for Wei Ting and Su Ergou.

When the ointment was applied, it felt cold and instantly soothed the pain in his wound.

“How is Ergou?” Jing Yi asked.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “His condition is much better than yours.”

Although Ergou's injuries were worse than Jing Yi's, Ergou was not infected and recovered quickly.

“That's good,” Jing Yi said weakly.

Su Xiaoxiao asked, “Why didn't you come to the clinic yesterday? Do you look down on my medical skills?”

Jing Yi hurriedly said, “No… I… I don't want to trouble you..

There were too many injured people last night. If he went over as well, it would increase her burden.

In this world, there were people who could harden one's heart, such as Qin Yanran and Qin Yun.

There were also people who made people's hearts soften, such as Ergou and Jing Yi.

“Jing Yi, why are you so nice to me?”

Su Xiaoxiao wasn't a fool. How could she not realize that Jing Yi was special to her?

However, after thinking about it, she couldn't remember what she had done to make Jing Yi suddenly like her.

It was true that she had reattached his arm the first time they met.

However, they had met several times since then, and Jing Yi did not show any “preference” for her. It was as if one day, Jing Yi's attitude toward her had suddenly changed.

Jing Yi paused.

“It's okay if you don't want to tell me.” Su Xiaoxiao said.

“Snacks,” Jing Yi said.

“Huh?” Su Xiaoxiao looked at him in confusion.

Jing Yi said in a low voice, “The New Year's gift you gave me… That box of snacks tastes like what my sister made.”

Jing Yi had an older sister.

However, his sister was sacrificed by her family and married a man who could not give her happiness. She lived through two extremely painful years and died when she gave birth.

At that time, he thought that if he could be stronger, he would not have to sacrifice his sister.

He would snatch what the family wanted!

Later on, he really became stronger, but his sister could never come back..

Chapter 367

Su Xiaoxiao left some ointment and anti- inflammatory medicine for Jing Yi. She also prescribed a prescription to warm his blood.

When Jing Shengming and the Marquis Weiwu saw that Jing Yi's mental state was indeed better than before, they couldn't help but be secretly surprised. The other party looked so young, but she actually had such medical skills.

Looking at the departing figures of the group, the Marquis of Weiwu suddenly said, “Father, don't you think she looks familiar?”

Jing Shengming was deep in thought. “Maybe she looks like Qin Canglan?”

While waiting outside, the Marquis of Weiwu learned Su Xiaoxiao's identity from his father.

The Marquis of Weiwu was puzzled. “But Qin Canglan isn't that good-looking..

“Why are you staring at a little girl?” “Father, you misunderstand. I don't mean anything else.”

Marquis Weiwu was really wronged.

Thinking of something, the Marquis Weiwu said, “She grew up among the commoners. How did she learn medicine?”

Jing Shengming said, “I heard that she took a doctor in town as her master.”

Marquis Weiwu asked, “Is the doctor in town skilled in medicine? Why did he take a country girl as his disciple? Father, don't you think that girl is a little strange?”

Jing Shengming looked at the disappearing figure in the night and didn't say anything.

After leaving Family Jing, Xiao Zhonghua's coachman drove the carriage over. Xiao Zhonghua looked at the two of them and wanted to say something but hesitated.

He placed one foot on the footstool and suddenly turned around. He said to Wei Ting, “Thank you for last night.”

With that, he got into the carriage.

The carriage left.

Su Xiaoxiao asked curiously, “Why would he thank you?”

When they were assassinated last night, Su Xiaoxiao had already gone down to save Su Ergou. She didn't know that Wei Ting had saved Xiao Zhonghua's life.

Wei Ting told him about the assassination.

“I see.” Su Xiaoxiao was enlightened.

“However,” Su Xiaoxiao asked again, “was the assassination a coincidence?”

Wei Ting said in a low voice, “Maybe I just happened to appear with Xiao Zhonghua. This is a rare opportunity. If they didn't make a move, there won't be a next time.”

As they spoke, the two of them got into the carriage. Wei Ting lifted the curtain and placed one hand on the door frame.

The top of her head brushed past his palm.

When she sat down, he lowered the curtain and sat beside her.

Fu Su drove the carriage in the direction of the medical center.

“I'll allow you to treat Jing Yi's injuries,” Wei Ting said seriously.

Su Xiaoxiao raised her eyebrows and looked at him. “You're suddenly so kind? Aren't you afraid that I'll attract people outside?”

Wei Ting said casually, “Heh, that's a kid who hasn't even grown his hair!”

Su Xiaoxiao narrowed her eyes. “You heard what he said to me just now, right?”

Wei Ting said lightly, “I don't have the habit of eavesdropping.”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Yes, you didn't eavesdrop. You listened openly. Who asked you to have good hearing, right?”

Wei Ting remained silent with a serious expression.

Su Xiaoxiao looked at him in amusement.

Wei Ting changed the topic decisively, “The poisoning of the Marquis of

Zhenbei has nothing to do with the Wei family. It was someone else.”

Su Xiaoxiao touched her chin. “Oh, how could your Wei family hold back from killing the two families?”

Wei Ting naturally could not say that they had wanted to do it but failed.

He coughed lightly and said seriously, “Our Wei family is open and aboveboard, so we naturally disdain to do such a thing.”

Su Xiaoxiao blinked. “Oh.”

Wei Ting looked at her coldly. “What kind of expression is that?”

“Nothing!” Su Xiaoxiao smiled. “By the way, you just said that when you planned to leave a few of the assassins alive last night, the Eldest Prince arrived with the imperial guards and killed them.”

Coming back to the main topic, Wei Ting's expression became serious. “That's right. ”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Doesn't that mean that the Eldest Prince is very suspicious?” Wei Ting nodded.

Su Xiaoxiao continued, “Who is he trying to kill? You and the Third Prince, or one of you?”

Wei Ting paused for a moment and said, “It's best to kill both of us at the same time. If he really could only kill one, he will kill Xiao Zhonghua and frame the Wei family.”

Su Xiaoxiao thought about it and said, “Killing Xiao Zhonghua and framing the Wei Family… Not only can he get away with it, but he can also get rid of a stumbling block on the path to the throne. Most importantly, it would give the Emperor a reason to deal with the Wei Family.”

Su Xiaoxiao rubbed her double chin, “The Crown Prince really knows what his father is thinking.”

The Wei family had made great contributions to the country. Emperor Jing Xuan had long wanted to take back the Wei family's military power, but almost all the sons of the Wei family had died in battle at the border. With such contributions, the sun and moon could bear witness. If Emperor Jing Xuan wanted to touch the Wei family, he would definitely be doubted and spurned by the entire world.

There might even be a very dishonorable stroke in the history books.

If Emperor Jing Xuan wanted to leave his name in history, he could not be reckless.

What could discredit the Wei family more than assassinating a prince?

Wei Ting said, “There was another survivor. He's an archer in the forest. We let him escape for the time being.”

Su Xiaoxiao asked, “Is he also on the Crown Prince's side?”

Wei Ting frowned slightly. “It's hard to say.”

Su Xiaoxiao was confused. “What do you mean?”

Wei Ting told her the news he had obtained from Matriarch Wei. “The token that fell from that person belonged to a sect that had long disappeared. Back then, it was my grandfather who personally led his troops to eradicate it.” Su Xiaoxiao said, “Does the Imperial Court bother about the martial world?”

Wei Ting said, “Normally, we don't bother. However, that sect was blind. They actually kidnapped the imperial envoy sent by the Imperial Court to provide disaster relief and even took away the silver.”

“Oh, then they are courting death.” Su Xiaoxiao thought about it and said, “If the Eldest Prince colludes with them, wouldn't it be a taboo for the Emperor?”

“That's right.” Wei Ting tapped his fingertips on the table twice. “When we catch that assassin, there will be a good show to watch.”

Su Xiaoxiao only knew two princes. One was the Third Prince, Xiao Zhonghua, and the other was the Eldest Prince, Xiao Duye. Judging from the current situation, neither of them was simple.

Wei Ting's eyes were deep as he said, “The reason why the emperor hasn't appointed a crown prince until now is to prevent his sons from killing each other like he did back then. Unfortunately, that dragon throne is made of blood. No one can sit on it cleanly.”

Su Xiaoxiao agreed.

Su Xiaoxiao thought of something and said, “Do you think… the corpses under the pavilion are related to the Eldest Prince?”

In any case, she did not believe that the Eldest Prince happened to pass by.

Wei Ting pondered for a moment and said, “The case is still in the preliminary investigation stage. At the moment, there's no concrete evidence to prove that it's related to the Eldest Prince.”

If there were, it would be too terrifying. With so many corpses, it was unknown what kind of shocking bloody case it was.

Su Xiaoxiao asked, “What did you see down there?”

Wei Ting recalled, “Skeletons… countless skeletons… sitting or lying… some curled up… some lying on their stomachs… in different postures.”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “It sounds like they once lived in the cellar. They weren't carried in after they died.”

Wei Ting narrowed his eyes and said, “I had the same feeling the first time I saw it.”

Su Xiaoxiao sniffed.

“What's wrong?” Wei Ting looked at her strangely.

Su Xiaoxiao leaned over, grabbed his clothes, and sniffed him. Then, she lifted the curtain and sniffed outside.

“Wei Ting, do you smell that?”

Wei Ting asked strangely, “Smell what?”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Fragrance, the fragrance in the cellar.”

Wei Ting frowned. “Was there a fragrance in the cellar?”

He could only smell the aura and stench of the rotting corpses.

“Stop the carriage!” Su Xiaoxiao said seriously.

Fu Su hurriedly stopped the carriage.

Su Xiaoxiao opened the curtain and jumped off the carriage.

Wei Ting hurriedly followed.

Su Xiaoxiao's steps were much faster than when she was in the countryside, and her movements became especially agile. She entered a study room.

The owner of the study room asked her if she wanted to buy books or calligraphy, and she quickly went out the back door.

The boss was confused.

Finally, another person came.

The boss's eyes lit up. “Sir…”

Wei Ting also left.

Su Xiaoxiao entered an empty alley and frowned. “I lost him.”

Wei Ting looked up. “We didn't lose him.”

Su Xiaoxiao: “Huh?”

Wei Ting used his Light-body Technique and leaped onto the roof.. He grabbed a sneaky figure and unceremoniously threw him down!

Chapter 368

“Ouch—”

That person screamed and fell to the ground!

Ignoring the pain, he got up and wanted to escape, but Wei Ting had already landed steadily in front of him.

He looked at Wei Ting in horror, then turned back to look at the little fat girl walking towards him.

“What… what are you doing?”

He stammered.

“Is it him?” Wei Ting asked Su Xiaoxiao.

Su Xiaoxiao sniffed and nodded. “Yes.

Wei Ting's cold gaze landed on the other party. The other party was frightened out of his wits and knelt on the ground. “Hero… You… What did you lose… I'll return it to you… Please don't kill me… I won't dare to do it again…”

With that, he unbuttoned his shirt and poured out a large pile of things from a large pocket tied to his chest.

“It's a thief.” Wei Ting said to Su Xiaoxiao.

Su Xiaoxiao leaned over and sniffed him. Then, she reached out and grabbed his right hand, pulling out a clean handkerchief from his sleeve.

There were a few gold bars wrapped in the handkerchief.

The thief's expression changed. Ordinary people wouldn't be able to find his hidden pocket—

Su Xiaoxiao opened the handkerchief and kept the gold bar without changing her expression.

The thief was speechless.

So they were in the same industry. Su Xiaoxiao asked, “Is this handkerchief yours?”

The thief shook his head. “No.'

Wei Ting threatened, “If you dare to lie, I'll cut off your tongue.”

The little thief hurriedly said, “I swear to the heavens that I won't dare to lie to the two of you!”

“Where did you get the handkerchief?” Su Xiaoxiao asked, “Did you steal it too?”

The thief nodded weakly.

Su Xiaoxiao asked, “Where did you steal it?”

The little thief whispered, “On a girl… I don't know her… I saw that she was beautiful… My heart… I admired her… so I stole her handkerchief…” Su Xiaoxiao continued to ask, “What does she look like?”

The thief whispered, “I… I can't explain… She was wearing a veil…”

Su Xiaoxiao asked, “Where?”

The thief said, “By the lake. There are many pleasure boats by the lake.” Su Xiaoxiao looked at Wei Ting and asked, “Where did we eat last time?”

Wei Ting asked for more details and confirmed that it was in that area. However, the clothes described by the thief were just clothes worn by ordinary girls. They were caught on the streets and did not have any outstanding characteristics.

As for this handkerchief, it was the most common material on the market. Nine out of ten cloth shops could buy it.

Wei Ting handed the thief to a nearby official and sent Su Xiaoxiao back to the medical center.

Another day passed, and Su Cheng still had not woken up.

“Tomorrow is the competition.” Qin Canglan said.

“Old Marquis!”

A black-clothed guard flashed in and cupped his hands at the Old Marquis. “Qin

Jiang hired a group of Jianghu assassins who are headed towards Qing City.”

The Old Marquis was not surprised at all. “Old Qin, what did I say? This Qin Jiang is restless, right?”

Qin Canglan asked, “Mo'er also went to Qing City, right?”

The Old Marquis nodded. “He went to pick up Fifth Brother.”

Qin Canglan asked strangely, “Can't Fifth Brother deal with a few assassins?”

The Old Marquis sighed. “Yes, he can deal with them, but if Mo'er doesn't look after him, who knows where he'll run off to? That kid is the biggest headache in the family.”

Qin Canglan said, “Isn't Fourth the most troublesome one?”

The Old Marquis retorted “You can choose not to speak.”

After Su MO received Fifth Brother, he bade farewell to his grandmother and the others and returned to the capital with Fifth Brother.

At first, everything went smoothly. At dawn the next day, they encountered the assassins sent by Qin Jiang.

The news of the competition between Su Cheng and Qin Jiang had been released a month ago. Everyone was looking forward to it.

One of them was Qin Canglan's own flesh and blood, and the other was the fake son that he and the Duke of Zhenbei had nurtured for twenty years. Who was more qualified to inherit the military power of the Protectorate?

The tournament had a total of three days. The first day was a martial arts competition, the second day was horse riding and archery, and the last day was the art of war.

The competition was held in a martial arts arena in the palace, not far from the Qilin Hall.

Emperor Jing Xuan went to court first. “Today's the day of competition. If you don't have something to report, you can leave the court.”

The ministers tactfully left the court.

Thus, Emperor Jing Xuan led the mighty group of ministers to the arena.

The high-ranking officials were given seats by Emperor Jing Xuan. The rest of the officials could only stand by and watch. Emperor Jing Xuan did not force them to stay here, but this concerned the military power of the Qin family. To be honest, there were not many officials who were not curious.

The princes had also arrived.

The academy had a three-day holiday, and Princess Jingning also came to watch the battle..

Chapter 369

“Jingning, come to Father,” Emperor Jing Xuan said to Princess Jingning with a smile.

Princess Hui An was not interested in fighting and killing, but when she heard that Jingning had gone, she also came to join in the fun!

Unfortunately, there was no place for her next to Emperor Jing Xuan.

She stomped her feet and sat down next to Xiao Zhonghua.

At the next table was First Prince Xiao Duye.

Xiao Duye smiled and took a sip of tea. He asked Xiao Zhonghua, “Third

Brother, who do you think will win today?”

Xiao Zhonghua smiled. “What do you think, Big Brother?”

Xiao Duye smiled and said, “I've just returned to the capital, so I don't know much about the Protector Duke. I heard that Third Brother met him in Qingzhou. Third Brother must know his strength better than me.”

Xiao Zhonghua's smile did not change. “Big Brother, you're being too serious. I was just recuperating in Qingzhou. I didn't get to know anyone.”

Xiao Duye shook the cup in his hand. “I heard that it was the daughter of the

Protector Duke who treated Third Brother's illness. It seems that Third Brother and Miss Su are really fated.”

Xiao Zhonghua said with a pleasant expression, “Big Brother has only returned to the capital for three days. I didn't expect you to have investigated your younger brother so clearly.”

Xiao Duye's smile froze. “How can it be called an investigation? It's just something that has already spread.”

He finished his tea and stopped talking to Xiao Zhonghua.

On the emperor's left were the princes and princesses, as well as their relatives, and on his right was the minister of the humerus.

Qin Canglan and the Old Marquis were already seated.

There was a table beside the two of them, and the two futons were empty.

The Old Marquis asked in a low voice, “Is Cheng'er still unconscious?”

He had rested in the Duke Mansion last night, and Qin Canglan had come directly from the medical center.

Qin Canglan said without batting an eyelid, “He's not awake yet. Where's Fifth

Brother? Isn't he here yet? The competition is about to begin.” The Old Marquis frowned. “This hour… he should be here…'

Not long after, Qin Jiang brought Qin Yanran and Xu Qing over.

The two of them bowed to Emperor Jing Xuan and sat ten steps away from Qin Canglan.

Emperor Jing Xuan looked at Qin Canglan and asked, “Is Qin Che not here yet?”

He was talking about Qin Che, not Su Cheng.

Qin Canglan stood up, cupped his hands and said, “Please wait a moment, Your

Majesty.”

However, after fifteen minutes, Su Cheng still did not appear.

The Old Marquis stood up and said, “Your Majesty, I have something to report.” “Speak!”

“Cheng'er… suddenly met with an unforeseen event and was unable to rush over to participate in the Grand Competition. Can his son take his place?”

“His son?”

“Yes.”

Emperor Jing Xuan looked down. “Qin Jiang, do you have any objections?”

Qin Jiang stood up and bowed, “Your Majesty, forgive me for being blunt, but Su Cheng's son has just turned fourteen this year and has never gone to school or learned martial arts. It would be unfair for me to win against him. I heard that the Duke of Zhenbei intends to pass one of his grandsons to Su Cheng.

Why don't we let Su Cheng's adopted son take his place?”

As soon as these words were spoken, everyone was shocked.

Did Qin Canglan and the Marquis of Zhenbei have such a plan? To pass on the bloodline of the Duke Mansion to the Qin Family?

Wasn't this a little…

“Is that true?” Emperor Jing Xuan asked the Old Marquis.

The Old Marquis replied, “Yes, I've already given my youngest grandson to

Cheng'er.”

“This is nonsense!” Princess Hui An muttered, “How can you pass on your own son to someone else? Isn't this cheating? If you can't win, you got external help. It's too unfair to Qin Jiang!”

Xiao Zhonghua did not say anything and just drank the tea in his hand.

It was unfair to compare Su Cheng, who had grown up among the commoners, with Qin Jiang. However, after hearing Qin Jiang's words, it seemed like Su

Cheng's side had also taken a huge advantage.

The Old Marquis' face darkened.

Although they had made this plan, it didn't sound so good when Qin Jiang said it in such a sarcastic manner.

Most importantly, that was not the point.

Qin Jiang dared to accept Fifth Brother so openly. Either Qin Jiang had full confidence in defeating Fifth Brother, or Qin Jiang had full confidence in stalling Fifth Brother.

Fifth Brother was the most disobedient child in the family, but he was also the most talented in martial arts.

Therefore, compared to the first situation, the Senior Marquis felt that the latter was more likely.

What did Qin Jiang do to Fifth Brother?!

Could it be that he had sent more than one wave of assassins? Did he have other backup plans?

Of course, Qin Jiang had other backup plans.

However, his backup plan was broken through by Su MO and the youngest so of the Su family.

Qin Jiang had only received the messenger pigeon before entering the palace

Although they had avoided man-made disasters, they had not avoided natur disasters. There had been heavy rain in Li County for days. The landslide had destroyed the bridge and the official road had been submerged.. Su MO and t] youngest son of the Su family could not come!

Chapter 370

Even God was helping him!

A guard from the Marquis of Zhenbei came over from behind and reported in a low voice to the Old Marquis and Qin Canglan, “Masters, something bad has happened to Eldest Young Master and Fifth Young Master on the way…”

Their expressions changed.

Emperor Jing Xuan said lightly, “Since Qin Jiang has no objections, let's do as the Count of Zhenbei says and let Su Cheng's son compete on his behalf… The adopted son is fine too. Bring him up.”

How would they do that?

He was gone!

It was over, it was over.

No matter how much one planned, one could not predict a natural disaster. What should they do?

“My two beloved ministers, the time has come. If Su Cheng refuses to fight, then I will judge Qin Jiang as the winner.”

“Father, is there only one round?” Princess Jingning asked.

Emperor Jing Xuan was quite gentle with his daughter. “Three rounds, but if he doesn't come…”

Princess Jing Ning said, “Father, this is the first round. Two wins out of three.”

Emperor Jing Xuan accepted Princess Jingning's suggestion. “Then let's wait for another 15 minutes. If Qin Jiang doesn't appear after 15 minutes, the second round will also be decided.”

There was no longer any suspense.

Natural disasters blocked people on the road. It was impossible for them to arrive in fifteen minutes.

It seemed like they were going to lose today's competition.

It was a pity that Qin Jiang was injured by Wei Ting. Originally, he did not have the advantage. If he even won in the weakest aspect, the subsequent situation would be very disadvantageous to Su Cheng.

Time passed bit by bit.

The officials began to whisper.

“Why isn't the youngest grandson of the Marquis of Zhenbei here yet?” “Are you unhappy?

“He's clearly the son of the Marquis of Zhenbei's legitimate wife. If he is suddenly adopted by an uncle he's never met before, I'm afraid no one will agree easily…”

“The youngest grandson of the Marquis of Zhenbei has always been unruly. At home, he always gives the Marquis of Zhenbei and Minister Su a headache.”

“Why didn't Su Cheng come personally? I understand that he can't win, but he has to come and take a look. A man shouldn't be a coward!”

“Something happened to him. I heard that he was frightened! When he heard that he was going to compete with Qin Jiang, he was so frightened that he didn't dare to get out of bed…”

“Ah… If he's really such a cowardly rat, wouldn't it be too rash to give military power to such a good-for-nothing?”

“So, let's hope that Qin Jiang wins…”

Qin Yanran couldn't help but be overjoyed when she heard everyone's discussion.

The gloominess of the past few days had finally culminated to this moment.

Su Cheng did not even dare to leave the house. How could such a good -for-nothing be worthy of being her father's opponent?

The flesh and blood of a good-for-nothing could only be a good-for-nothing. She touched her cheek. That girl had slapped her. She would return it sooner or later!

“Boring!” Princess Hui An frowned gloomily.

If she had known earlier, she wouldn't have followed Jingning to join in the fun.

Eunuch Fu glanced at the hourglass beside him.

Fifteen minutes passed, but he pretended not to see it.

On the other side, Eunuch Quan, who was serving tea, saw that he was silent and realized that his chance had come.

Eunuch Quan said obsequiously, “Your Majesty! Fifteen minutes is up!”

Princess Jingning glared at him.

Qin Jiang was overjoyed.

So what if Wei Ting had broken one of his ribs? In the end, Su Cheng had no way of competing with him!

Xiao Duye picked up his teacup and leaned toward Xiao Zhonghua. “Third brother, big brother congratulates you in advance.”

Xiao Zhonghua sipped his tea expressionlessly.

Emperor Jing Xuan also lost his patience. He glanced at the empty seat next to Qin Canglan and said indifferently, “The second round..

Before he could finish speaking, a strong voice sounded not far away.

“Protector Duke requests an audience…” Qin Jiang trembled.

Who wanted to request an audience?

Protector Duke?

He straightened up strangely and turned his head to look in the direction he had come from. He saw a man wearing silver armor and carrying a large saber on his shoulder walking towards the arena in a mighty and domineering manner.

Who else could it be but Su Cheng?

The current Su Cheng was not the commoner he had seen on the streets, nor was he the father who had been furious in the middle of the night a few days ago. He had put on a cold armor.

He looked like a general on the battlefield.

His temperament had changed drastically.

If he hadn't seen it with his own eyes, Qin Jiang wouldn't have believed it.

Su Xiaoxiao and Wei Ting also came over.

The two of them did not talk. They just “coincidentally” bumped into each other at the entrance of the palace.

The three of them bowed to Emperor Jing Xuan.

This was the first time Emperor Jing Xuan had seen this father-daughter pair who wandered among the commoners.

The little girl was chubby and had exquisite facial features. She was round and cute, but her eyes were very cold.

Although she grew up in the countryside, she did not have the slightest bit of pettiness. Her actions were dignified, calm, and elegant, and she had a rare heroic spirit.

Su Cheng was indeed Qin Canglan's biological son. He was much more like Qin

Canglan than Qin Jiang, and he also had some traces of the Marquis of Zhenbei. His nephew was like his uncle.

Emperor Jing Xuan asked, “Are you Qin che?”

Chapter 371

Su Cheng said, “My name is now Su Cheng.”

“All good.”

Emperor Jingxuan did not care. In any case, he could not defeat Qin Jiang. What did it matter if his surname was Su? He was just a nominal Protector Duke.

Emperor Jingxuan said indifferently, “Since you're here, let's begin. I want to remind you that before you appear, I've already determined that Qin Jiang won a round.”

Su Cheng asked, “How many rounds are left?”

Emperor Jing Xuan: “Two rounds.”

Su Cheng asked again, “Two out of three rounds?”

Emperor Jing Xuan's face turned cold.

Everyone was thinking that he was the first person who dares to catch Emperor Jing Xuan and question him.

Eunuch Fu smiled and said, “Protector Duke is right. It's two out of three rounds.”

Su Cheng raised his eyebrows and looked askance at Qin Jiang. “Where are the rules? What if I beat him to death?” Everyone snickered.

Would he beat Qin Jiang to death?

Was he sure he didn't get the order wrong?

Qin Jiang would have beaten him to death!

No one believed that Su Cheng could win.

Emperor Jing Xuan said, “Don't kill anyone.”

These words were directed at Qin Jiang because, in Emperor Jing Xuan's opinion, Su Cheng was no match for Qin Jiang no matter what.

Qin Jiang cupped his hands and replied, “Yes.”

Wei Ting walked to Xiao Duye's side and sat down. “Your Highness, you don't mind, right?”

Xiao Duye smiled. “It's my honor to sit with Lord Wei.”

There was an empty table on Qin Canglan's right.

Su Xiaoxiao walked over and sat down.

Eunuch Fu was worried that Su Cheng did not know the rules of the martial arts competition, so he had specially instructed him. Blades and swords had no eyes, so injuries were inevitable. However, he could not take a person's life. If he suppressed the other party to the point of being unable to fight back, or if he was expelled from the arena, it would be considered a victory.

Su Cheng swaggered onto the arena.

He pointed his saber at Qin Jiang. “Qin Jiang, come up if you have the guts!”

Qin Jiang smiled coldly.

“Su Cheng, Su Cheng, I'm afraid you don't know that my injuries have already healed, right?”

“There is a path to heaven, but you chose to barge into hell. Since you're courting death, don't blame me for embarrassing you in public!”

“Qin Canglan, open your eyes wide and see clearly how much stronger your abandoned son is than your own son!”

Qin Jiang also went up to the arena.

There were no guardrails around the arena, so it was easy to fall. As for who would be the one to fall, no one knew.

Princess Hui An said proudly, “Hmph! That Su Cheng is dead meat!”

Xiao Zhonghua looked at his sister. “Do you have a problem with him?”

Princess Hui An rolled her eyes and said, “Who asked his daughter to get along with Jingning?”

Xiao Zhonghua didn't know what to do with his unruly sister, so he stopped arguing with her.

Below the arena stood a young eunuch holding a gong. Eunuch Fu waved his hand at the other party, who rang the gong.

The competition began!

Qin Jiang's weapon was a long spear, while Su Cheng's weapon was a large saber.

In terms of the power of the weapon, an inch longer was stronger, and an inch shorter was more dangerous.

Qin Jiang had the advantage.

Moreover, Qin Canglan was most proficient in spear techniques. Qin Jiang had inherited his skills. Everyone deduced that in less than ten moves, Su Cheng would definitely lose!

Qin Jiang used the first move of his spear. It was a diagonal thrust. His movements were swift and violent, as fast as lightning and as agile as a swimming dragon.

Su Cheng raised his saber, and the blade met Qin Jiang's spear head-on.

“He caught it!”

The Assistant Minister of War was surprised.

Not only did he catch it, but he also seemed to have caught it quite easily.

Qin Jiang was also stunned.

That day, Su Cheng injured Xu Qing mostly because Su Cheng played dirty tricks. Xu Qing had only been careless and had fallen for Su Cheng's trick. He did not think that Su Cheng had any true ability.

Another official wondered, “Did Mr. Qin go easy on him on purpose?”

The third official said, “After all, he's his nephew. He can't be ruthless, right?”

“Daya, what's the situation with your father?” Qin Canglan asked Su Xiaoxiao softly.

Su Xiaoxiao looked in the direction of the arena. “He woke up this morning. I told him that he had a martial arts competition with Qin Jiang today. I asked him if he was coming, so he came.”

Qin Canglan asked suspiciously, “He didn't ask anything?” For example, why did he have to compete with Qin Jiang? Su Xiaoxiao shook her head. “No.”

Her father was very calm today.

In the arena, Qin Jiang used his second move against Su Cheng.

He turned around in the air and slashed at Su Cheng with great force.

Most of the spear's attacks were thrusts, but it was precisely because of this that this move often exceeded the opponent's expectations and was impossible to guard against.

Clang!

Su Cheng's saber was placed horizontally above his head, firmly blocking his spear.

Everyone was surprised.

He caught it again!

Was Qin Jiang still going easy on him?

That should be enough, right?

Qin Jiang attacked five times in a row, each move more ruthless than the last.

Su Cheng was still at ease.

Everyone gradually sensed that something was wrong.

“Isn't Qin Jiang going overboard?”

“I don't think he's going easy…”

“But Su Cheng caught it very easily. Qin Jiang didn't seem to have used much strength…”

As the saying goes, the experts know the ropes, while the laymen watch the show. Qin Canglan and the others could naturally see that Qin Jiang was serious, but he could not resist Su Cheng's astonishing talent.

“That Su Cheng… seems to have some skills.”

“So what if he does? Can't you see that he's the one being attacked? Other than defending, he doesn't even have the chance to attack. He probably only learned these few moves. It's enough to save his life, but it's still impossible for him to defeat Qin Jiang. Sooner or later, he'll be knocked off the stage by Qin Jiang!”

After ten moves, Su Cheng switched from defense to offense and slashed Qin Jiang's spear with a large saber.

The moment Qin Jiang resisted with his spear, Su Cheng kicked Qin Jiang in the chest!

Qin Jiang was ruthlessly kicked away and fell heavily on the edge of the arena. Seeing that he was about to roll off the stage, he pushed his spear off the stage and used the momentum to send himself back to the arena. This scene made everyone's hearts jump to their throats.

Were they seeing things just now?

Was Qin Jiang almost knocked off the stage just now?

Was it a coincidence?

Did he lose his footing? Did that country bumpkin, the Protector Duke, get lucky?

Qin Jiang flipped in the air and landed on his feet to stabilize himself.

His ribs had just healed, and after the impact, they began to ache again.

He glared at Su Cheng maliciously.

He did not expect Su Cheng to have such strength. Those two old fellows… must have risked their lives to teach Su Cheng, right?

All these years, they had hidden skills from him and taught Su Cheng everything…

Qin Jiang would never admit that his talent was inferior to that of Su Cheng!

Su Cheng hooked his finger at him provocatively. “Qin, come here.”

Qin Jiang glared angrily and gritted his teeth as he attacked Su Cheng.

This time, the two of them fought head-on and used their killer moves.

The saber and spear collided, restraining each other.

Qin Jiang said sarcastically, “Su Cheng, do you remember who you are? Do you know how Su Huayin died? She died tragically under the enemy's sword to protect you, you little coward…”

In the end, Qin Jiang used the most disgusting method. He wanted to stimulate Su Cheng's memory and make him faint on the spot!

Su Cheng's body froze.

Qin Jiang smiled smugly.

However, in the next second, he could no longer smile.

Su Cheng's eyes became extremely dangerous, and his entire body emitted a cold and powerful killing intent.

“You. Are. Not. Qualified. To. Mention. My. Mother.”

Su Cheng slashed his spear in half!

Chapter 372

How much force was needed to break a spear?

The officials present looked at the scene in front of them in disbelief. It would be too far-fetched to say that Qin Jiang was going easy on the other party. “No way… Su Cheng… Did he really grow up in the countryside?”

“His moves are not inferior to Qin Jiang's…”

“What do you mean by not inferior to Qin Jiang… He broke Qin Jiang's spear…”

“It's not a move. It's the strength and angle.” The Assistant Minister of the Ministry of War said, “The reason why he wasn't in a hurry to attack after he went on stage was that he was looking for flaws in Qin Jiang's weapon and move. ”

It was only then that they understood.

From beginning to end, Qin Jiang did not go easy. Instead, it was Su Cheng who lured Qin Jiang into making a move step by step, maximizing his restraint. In the end, he even deliberately revealed a flaw to lure Qin Jiang into saying something and distracted him.

It seemed to be disorganized, but in fact, he was taking every step carefully.

Su Cheng… was not a boorish man.

Qin Jiang looked at the broken spear and could not believe that it was Su Cheng's doing!

Why was this happening?

He had just mentioned Su Huayin. Why didn't Su Cheng react?

Shouldn't he have fainted from the stimulation?

And…

What did he mean by that?

“You are not qualified to mention my mother!” Did Su Cheng… knew that Su Huayin was his mother?

Had Su Cheng regained his memory?

Too many doubts flashed through Qin Jiang's mind. His thoughts were uncontrollably chaotic. He tried his best to remain calm, but Su Cheng would not give him this chance.

Su Cheng's long blade once again slashed towards him.

There were no fancy tricks, nor were there any so-called saber techniques, fist techniques, sword techniques, internal cultivation techniques…

Qin Jiang thought that the Old Marquis and Qin Canglan were biased. They taught Su Cheng everything he had learned in a month…

How could Qin Jiang have expected that the two of them had not taught Su Cheng any moves in this month?

Su Cheng was being beaten up.

However, if Qin Canglan and the Old Marquis could not kill Su Cheng, a lower-level martial artist like Qin Jiang could forget about it!

Qin Jiang felt the change in Su Cheng's aura. It seemed that from the moment Su Huayin was mentioned, the anger in Su Cheng's body burned.

Qin Jiang used his broken spear to block.

However, after blocking it twice, his arms began to feel slightly numb.

What terrifying strength!

Did Su Cheng take some medicine?!

Qin Yanran looked at her father who was being forced back step by step on the arena, and she frowned with worry. “Xu Qing, will my father be alright?” “It's hard to say,” Xu Qing said.

“What do you mean? Could it be that my father will lose to Su Cheng?”

“Master has lost his weapon.”

Without a weapon, it was equivalent to losing an arm.

Of course, absolute strength was enough to make up for this gap. If Su Cheng was fighting Qin Canglan at this moment, not to mention losing his weapon, even if he restrained his arm, Qin Canglan would be invincible.

The problem was that Qin Jiang did not have Qin Canglan's terrifying strength.

“Can't he use another weapon?” Qin Yanran asked.

Xu Qing said, “Yes, in the next round.”

Qin Yanran was dumbfounded

Su Cheng was ruthless. The situation on the arena had a shocking reversal.

Every slash he made forced Qin Jiang to take two steps back. In the beginning, Qin Jiang suppressed Su Cheng and attacked. Now, Su Cheng was chasing Qin Jiang and beating him up.

In fact, Qin Jiang was in a much more sorry state than Su Cheng.

At the very least, Qin Jiang was still worried about the accuracy of his moves. Su Cheng did not care about such nonsense. What was the use of considering if the moves were good-looking or not?

He only wanted results.

In the end, he suppressed Qin Jiang and beat him up like a sandbag.

“It's over, Qin Jiang!”

He jumped up and kicked Qin Jiang in the head, sending him off the stage!

The officials stood up.

The venue fell silent!

“Is… is it Qin Jiang?” an official asked.

His colleague at the side widened his eyes and said, “That's right, right? Anyway, the person standing on the stage isn't him..

Qin Jiang, who had been practicing martial arts in the Protectorate for twenty years, had actually lost to Su Cheng, who came from the countryside!

What a shocking joke!

After exiting the arena, he was eliminated. The young eunuch beside him rang the gong.

Princess Hui An snorted coldly. “Useless thing! You can't even defeat a farmer!” Under the veil, Princess Jingning's lips curved slightly. “Father, Qin Jiang lost.”

Although Emperor Jing Xuan had made two preparations, he was leaning towards Qin Jiang winning.

He frowned impatiently.

In front of the civil and military officials, it was not good to slap his own face.

He could only say in a low voice, “For the second round, Qin Che wins..”

Chapter 373

The Old Marquis was overjoyed and revealed a smile.

“I knew it. Cheng'er won't lose!”

Qin Canglan muttered, “Then why did you adopt Fifth Brother to Cheng'er…”

The Old Marquis coughed lightly. “Didn't Cheng'er faint? You didn't object! ”

The two elders saw Su Cheng's improvement.

However, it was still a little difficult to win against Qin Jiang.

Su Cheng's performance today was extraordinary. It was as if there was a ball of fire in his heart that ignited an extraordinary fighting spirit.

Qin Jiang earnestly requested to change weapons.

Emperor Jing Xuan approved.

“I'm going to the toilet,” Qin Jiang said to the eunuch guarding the arena.

Su Cheng placed the saber on his shoulder and sneered in disdain, “You cowards have too much sh*t and urine!”

Qin Jiang was dumbfounded.

Qin Jiang went to the toilet, and Su Cheng couldn't just stand there alone on the tournament stage. He jumped down with his saber and walked in front of Su Xiaoxiao. He asked as if he was showing off, “How was my fight?”

Su Xiaoxiao looked at him with clear eyes. “Father is very powerful.”

Heh, a compliment from his daughter was better than a hundred compliments from others!

Su Cheng was filled with fighting spirit again!

Xu Qing followed Qin Jiang to the toilet.

After confirming that there was no one around,

Qin Jiang frowned and said, “It's useless to stimulate Su Cheng's memory! When you fought with Su Cheng that day, did he also use such strength?” “Yes,” Xu Qing said.

Qin Jiang said coldly, “Why didn't you say so earlier? I could have strengthened my defenses!”

Xu Qing said, “I thought Old Master could tell.”

Qin Jiang was speechless.

In terms of martial arts attainments, he was inferior to Xu Qing. Xu Qing could tell what he might not be able to.

But he couldn't admit it either, could he?

“One more match,” Qin Jiang said.

Two out of three rounds. They each won one round. The third round was the key.

“Master.” Xu Qing took out a thumb ring from his pocket and handed it to him.

Puzzled, Qin Jiang asked, “This is…”

Xu Qing put the ring on his thumb and pressed his index finger against it.

Swoosh!

A silver needle shot out and nailed into the tree in front of him!

Xu Qing took off the thumb ring. “There are two silver needles left inside.”

Qin Jiang frowned. “You want me to use a hidden weapon on Su Cheng during the martial arts competition?”

Xu Qing said, “They did not say you're not allowed to use it.”

Qin Jiang hesitated. “This…”

Xu Qing explained, “This hidden weapon is non-poisonous. It's just applied with a little substance that can instantly make the other party lose his strength. In addition, it can penetrate armor.” Qin Jiang asked again, “Will it be an unfair victory?”

Xu Qing said, “Winner takes all.”

That was true. Compared to an unfair victory, losing to Su Cheng was the most humiliating.

Qin Jiang took the jade thumb ring and put it on his left thumb.

After Qin Jiang returned from the toilet, he went straight to the tournament stage.

Su Cheng also planned to go over.

Su Xiaoxiao paused and stopped him, “Father…”

A few minutes later, the gong rang, and the third round of the competition officially began.

This time, Qin Jiang did not use a spear, but a sword.

He realized that Su Cheng was good at close combat, and his spear did not have the advantage in a face-to-face battle. His long sword was more suitable for restraining Su Cheng's large saber.

Qin Jiang's spear technique was taught by Qin Canglan, and his master for swordsmanship was the Old Marquis.

With Qin Jiang's physique, he was more suitable to wield a light longsword.

In the second round, he did not use a long sword. Firstly, he felt that he did not need it. Secondly, he hoped to use the martial arts that Qin Canglan had taught him to defeat Su Cheng.

Unfortunately, he had miscalculated.

Unfortunately, he had miscalculated.

Qin Jiang looked at Su Cheng coldly. “I won't give you any more chances in thi:

round.”

Su Cheng said arrogantly, “Do I need you to give me a chance? Have you forgotten who kicked you down?”

Qin Jiang's face darkened.

The corners of Wei Ting's lips curled up imperceptibly as he continued to sip his tea.

Xiao Duye asked with a faint smile, “Lord Wei, who do you think will win this round?”

Wei Ting said indifferently, “What do you think, Your Highness?”

Xiao Duye smiled and said, “As for me, I feel that the two of them have a fifty-fifty chance of winning. Su Cheng's talent is obviously stronger than Qin Jiang's. Unfortunately, he was delayed for thirty years in the countryside. The gap between him and Qin Jiang can't be made up in a short month.” Wei Ting said, “Your Highness, let's make a bet. Su Cheng will win.”

Xiao Duye said in amusement, “Bet?”

Wei Ting said seriously, “Five thousand taels.”

Xiao Duye smiled faintly and said, “Let me make it clear first. I don't entertain any credit here. If you want to bet, take out the banknotes first.”

Wei Ting paused and turned to the side. Without changing his expression, he said, “Your Highness, can I borrow some silver to spend?”

Xiao Zhonghua was speechless.

The gong sounded, and the third round began.

After the previous round, no one dared to say that Qin Jiang was going easy on Su Cheng..

Chapter 374

It could not be said that Su Cheng had gone crazy today. As soon as he went on stage, he quickly took control and suppressed Qin Jiang to attack vigorously.

Qin Jiang had never seen such an unorthodox way of fighting. Every move was so ugly, and it was impossible to resist.

In the second round, the two of them were still going back and forth. In this round, Su Cheng simply did not give Qin Jiang a chance to make a move.

This was his hatred of the other party for killing his mother and hurting his son!

It was the unquenchable anger in Su Cheng's heart!

“Cheng'er, he…” The Old Marquis looked at the bloodthirsty Su Cheng and suddenly seemed to understand something.

Qin Canglan's expression also became complicated and agitated.

He secretly clenched his fists.

Su Cheng kicked Qin Jiang in the chest, causing him to fall ten steps on the stage and his clothes to be torn!

Qin Jiang spat out a mouthful of blood. He raised his hand to wipe the blood from the corner of his mouth and glared coldly at Su Cheng.

Su Cheng kicked him in the chest again!

“Father!” Qin Yanran turned pale.

Qin Jiang rolled and avoided Su Cheng's foot.

Then, he slashed with his sword.

If he could not dodge in time, one of his legs would definitely be cut off!

Su Cheng knelt on one knee and stabbed down with his long saber!

Clang!

The tip of the saber accurately landed on Qin Jiangs blade. With a crisp sound, Qin Jiang's sword was also shattered by Su Cheng's saber!

Everyone was dumbfounded.

No kidding?

Again?!

Was Qin Jiang's weapon useless, or was Su Cheng's weapon too useful?

The Assistant Minister of the Ministry of War said, “He used Inch Force just now. It looked inconspicuous, but he could instantly unleash ten times the strength.”

The Inch Force was very fast and ordinary people could not tell.

A certain civil official at the side asked, “So it's not about the weapon, but Su Cheng's own strength? Is he really that powerful?”

The Assistant Minister of the Ministry of War nodded solemnly. “I'm afraid so. We've all underestimated this Su Cheng. I remember that he was a martial arts genius when he was very young. Unfortunately, he disappeared at the age of six…”

Indeed, a father tiger would not have a dog for a son. Qin Canglan was the number one divine general of Great Zhou, so his son was naturally not bad.

Twenty years ago, when the sixteen-year-old Qin Jiang returned as Qin Canglan's legitimate son. His talent was much inferior, so everyone thought that he had wasted ten years among the commoners and wasted his excellent foundation.

From the looks of it, there was nothing wasted.

He was a dragon, not a worm. Su Cheng used the simplest and crudest fighting method to show everyone his astonishing strength and reaction speed!

Speaking of which, was Qin Jiang really that bad?

No.

In Qin Canglan's eyes, he had injured his body when he was young, so it affected his martial arts aptitude. But that was Qin Canglan's abnormal standard.

Strictly speaking, he had the best aptitude among ordinary people.

Su Cheng had top-notch aptitude.

That was all.

Su Cheng gave Qin Jiang a kick.

The more impressive Qin Jiang was when he went on stage, the more miserable he looked now.

Many officials on the grass field could not bear to watch anymore.

What happened to crushing Su Cheng?

This was simply being used as a punching bag by Su Cheng!

Emperor Jing Xuan's expression turned ugly.

“The snacks today are not bad. Reward,” Princess Jingning said.

Eunuch Fu smiled awkvvardly. “Yes, I'll remember it.”

As Su Cheng beat him up, he suddenly felt extreme joy turn into sorrow. His feet slipped and he fell.

Slurp!

He fell flat on his face.

The long saber in his hand flew out and coincidentally landed at Qin Jiang's feet.

This was really a gift!

Qin Jiang grabbed his long saber and slashed at Su Cheng with a murderous aura.

“Go forward! Go forward! Go forward!”

The officials shouted in low voices.

Su Cheng stared at Qin Jiang for a second, then turned around and ran!

Qin Jiang was speechless.

So was everyone else. “Stop right there!”

“I won't!”

Su Cheng ran around the tournament stage.

How could Qin Jiang outrun him?

Qin Jiang chased after him with his saber, but he couldn't catch up. He was furious with Su Cheng.

Xiao Duye frowned.

He had bet 5,000 taels on Qin Jiang winning. Just now, when Su Cheng's weapon was in Qin Jiang's hands, he was excited about the chance to turn defeat into victory.

Who would have thought that… Su Cheng, this scoundrel, would not take the blow at all!

Was there such a competition?

Could he be more shameless?

Su Cheng ran!

Qin Jiang gave chase!

Finally, Qin Jiang couldn't chase anymore. He used the knife to support his body and panted.

On the other hand, Su Cheng's face was not red and his heart was not racing. It looked like he could still run a hundred and eighty laps.

If this continued, he would be exhausted.

Qin Jiang touched the jade thumb ring.

Wei Tings eyes turned cold.

The Old Marquis said, “Wait, what's in Qin Jiang's hands?”

Qin Canglan's face darkened. “Hidden weapon!” Swoosh!

Qin Jiang shot a silver needle at Su Cheng.

The silver needle pierced through Su Cheng's armor and brushed past his shoulder blade!

Sil C.hengwas stunned

Fuck!

What was that?

“Qin Jiang used a hidden weapon!” An official stood up in shock.

Wasn't that too sinister?

Could hidden weapons be used in such an open competition?

Of course, there were also people who agreed with Qin Jiang's actions.

After all, it was not made clear from the beginning that he could not use hidden weapons.

The Old Marquis gritted his teeth. “Despicable!”

Emperor Jing Xuan did not speak.

It seemed like he had tacitly agreed.

Princess Jingning frowned.

Su Cheng did not have a weapon in his hand, and he had distanced himself from Qin Jiang. It was the best time for Qin Jiang to launch a sneak attack.

Qin Jiang did not give Su Cheng any chance to react and shot the third silver needle in the jade thumb ring at him.

This angle was extremely tricky. Su Cheng could not dodge in time. After a scream, he clutched his chest and fell.

The scene fell silent again. The entire field was silent.

Su Cheng, who had been confident of winning just now, collapsed just like that.

Qin Jiang dragged his tired legs and walked towards Su Cheng step by step.

Su Cheng looked at him in extreme pain.

It seemed that the drug had taken effect. Qin Jiang smiled satisfactorily and evilly as he knelt down on one knee beside Su Cheng.

“Su Cheng, you still lost in the end..

Halfway through his sentence, Qin Jiang froze.

Su Cheng, who was on the ground, suddenly raised his hand and stabbed the hidden weapon in his palm into Qin Jiang's neck!

Chapter 375

Qin Jiang's expression changed!

Su Cheng was pretending. He was not hit by the hidden weapon just now!

It was not strange for Su Cheng to be cunning. Previously, he had plotted against Xu Qing like this!

What really made him feel strange was… he clearly saw Su Cheng fall for it! Could it be that… Su Cheng caught his hidden weapon with his bare hands?

That was a hidden weapon that could even penetrate armor!

At this moment, Qin Jiang realized that Su Cheng was wearing an inconspicuous pair of silver gloves.

At first, he did not pay much attention to it because many soldiers would also put protective gear on their hands when they wore armor. Most of them were leather sheaths and a small piece of iron in their palms. He only thought that Su Cheng was the same.

But he was obviously wrong.

This pair of gloves was no ordinary protective gear.

“What are you looking at?” Su Chenz glared at him.

Before going on stage, Su Xiaoxiao stopped Su Cheng and asked him to put on a pair of gloves.

Su Cheng felt that it was troublesome and didn't want to wear it, but since his chubby daughter had requested it, he obediently put it on.

He did not expect the gloves to be so useful.

Seeing that Qin Jiang was staring at his gloves without blinking, Su Cheng raised his eyebrows. “Are you envious? You can't have it!”

Before Qin Jiang could speak, Su Cheng smiled evilly. “Do you think that's all?

Qin Jiang.”

Qin Jiang's temples throbbed!

Su Cheng flipped over and pressed Qin Jiang onto his body. He raised his foot, aimed at his right leg bone, and stomped down hard!

Was Qin Jiang going to become a cripple from this kick?!

The officials who were staring at the arena gasped in shock. Many of them even stood up subconsciously!

Su Cheng was too ruthless!

This was taking Qin Jiang's life!

How much hatred did he have?

Was it worth it?

Of course, it was a crime. Qin Jiang's actions were not innocent. Regardless of whether Su Huayin's death had anything to do with him or not, Ruan Xianglian was his biological mother and he was the one who benefited, so he was not innocent.

Moreover, after Su Cheng entered the capital, his actions were truly unforgivable.

“Father…” Qin Yanran cried out in shock.

“Aiya!” Princess Hui An's eyes widened.

Xu Qing's figure flashed as he used his Light-body Technique to fly toward the arena.

Wei Ting waved his forearm and threw the empty teacup in his hand, hitting Xu Qing's acupoints squarely.

Xu Qing's figure froze in the air before he flipped and landed on the ground.

Wei Ting said indifferently, “Guard Xu, this is a martial arts competition. No one can interfere.”

Xu Qing said coldly, “Lord Wei, you schemed to help Su Cheng. Could it be that the two of you have some shameful relationship?”

Wei Ting smiled faintly and pinched the banknotes he borrowed from Xiao

Zhonghua on the table with his fingertips. “I spent five thousand taels to bet on

Su Cheng winning. His First Highness spent five thousand taels to bet on Qin Jiang winning. You're helping Qin Jiang like this. Is it because you have a shameful relationship with His First Highness?” Xu Qing's face darkened.

Xiao Duye frowned and said, “I don't know him!”

In the arena, Su Cheng's foot landed.

In order to avoid this stomp of death, Qin Jiang had no choice but to spread his legs. That posture… was unbearable to look at.

However, what was even more unbearable to look at was yet to come.

The drug began to take effect. Qin Jiang's body gradually became clumsy, and Su Cheng continued to stomp him.

Not only did he want to step on his legs, but he also wanted to step on his balls!

Qin Jiang's body trembled.

Gosh!

When fighting with respectable people, the moves they used were pleasing to the eye, but once they encountered a scoundrel like Su Cheng, they could only be led astray by Su Cheng.

Qin Jiang hid on the tournament stage without a care for his image.

He got up and was trampled.

He got up again and was trampled again.

He looked like a toad that had been driven away to plow the ground.

“Pfft

One of the officials could not help but burst out laughing.

It was not that Qin Jiang's martial arts were too weak, but that he had never met an opponent like Su Cheng. All his moves were useless. In fact, there was not much martial arts left in his body. Su Cheng could completely kick him down.

However, Su Cheng seemed to want him to be in a sorry state in front of everyone.

Just as Qin Jiang thought that he had lost all his dignity in this life, Su Cheng attacked again.

He snatched back his saber and knocked Qin Jiang down with one move. He aimed at Qin Jiang's stomach and slashed!

“Qin Che! Don't kill anyone…” Eunuch Fu reminded him loudly.

Endless panic rose in Qin Jiang's heart.

He somersaulted backward and fell off the stage!

In order to save his life, he forfeited.

Not only did he give up this round of victory, but he also gave up the dignity he had worked so hard to build over the years.

One would rather die standing than live kneeling. This was the iron rule of the Qin family's army.

Qin Jiang had lost a lot of dignity!

Qin Yanran hoped that her father could live, but when her father really used such a disgraceful method to save his life, her face burned again. She lowered her head, not daring to meet the gazes of others.

Qin Jiang had lost… He had lost completely!

The scene fell into a strange silence for the third time. In fact, from the moment Su Cheng truly displayed his might, everyone already understood that Qin Jiang probably wouldn't be able to win today.

However, no one had expected Qin Jiang to jump off the stage by himself.

This was too…

The officials looked at each other and stole glances at Emperor Jing Xuan.

Emperor Jing Xuan's expression was extremely ugly.

Qin Jiang felt wronged.

He didn't mean to fall off the stage. The onlookers were far away and didn't know how dangerous it was just now. He just followed his instincts and dodged.

Su Cheng did it on purpose!

Su Cheng had calculated the angle and distance. If he did not dodge, he would die. If he did, he would fall off the stage.

“Good!” Qin Canglan clapped!

The Old Marquis and Su Xiaoxiao also applauded.

Cheng'er was awesome!

Father was awesome!

Wei Ting also clapped. “Your Highness, thank you for letting me win.” Xiao Duye's expression was as interesting as his father's.

“Father, it's time to announce the results,” Princess Jingning reminded. Emperor Jing Xuan reluctantly announced the result, “Qin Che wins.”

With that, he stood up and left without looking back.

Anyone could tell that he was angry.

Su Cheng carried his large saber and swaggered over.

Other than his own family and Wei Ting, who had won five thousand taels, no official present dared to go forward to congratulate him.

This was because everyone could tell that Emperor Jing Xuan's true target was Qin Jiang. If Su Cheng won the competition, it would be a slap to Emperor Jing

Xuan's face.

If Emperor Jing Xuan was angry, would Su Cheng have a good time?

“I still have something on in the afternoon. I'll get going first.”

“Me too. There's a lot of paperwork to deal with.”

“Ah, it seems that I have to investigate the previous case again…

The officials found dignified excuses to leave.

Princess Hui An came to Qin Yanran's seat and said angrily, “Qin Yanran, what's wrong with your father? He can't even defeat a country bumpkin like Su Cheng! How useless! If I had known earlier, I wouldn't have come!”

Princess Hui An left angrily.

Princess Jingning greeted Su Xiaoxiao and said to Su Cheng, “Congratulations, Protector Duke.”

Su Cheng asked his daughter in a daze, “Who is it?”

“Princess Jingning, my classmate,” Su Xiaoxiao introduced.

Su Cheng immediately became enthusiastic. “You're Daya's classmate. Come over to my house to play when you're free!” Princess Jingning was stunned. “Okay..”

Chapter 376

Su Cheng sized him up. “Who are you?”

“Third Prince.” Su Xiaoxiao introduced again.

Su Cheng thought for a moment and his expression suddenly became serious. He stretched out a hand and made a stopping gesture. “Don't come home to play!

His son-in-law would be jealous!

Xiao Zhonghua was speechless.

The victory on the first day could be said to be a good start. Qin Canglan and the Old Marquis were incomparably proud that their Cheng'er had proven his strength in front of everyone. They also felt complicated because Cheng'er's performance today was different from usual.

It should be said that it was fiercer and more murderous. In terms of the martial arts competition itself, this was not a bad thing. However, when combined with Su Cheng's situation, it could not help but make people suspect that Su Cheng had suffered another blow.

The Old Marquis gave Qin Canglan a look.

Qin Canglan said seriously, “Cheng'er, I'll send you back.”

The group left the palace and boarded the carriage back to the medical center.

Su Xiaoxiao and the Old Marquis were in the same carriage, while Qin Canglan and Su Cheng were in the same carriage.

All along the way, Su Cheng was rather silent, and he was like a completely different person from his fierce and domineering appearance in the arena.

Qin Canglan wanted to say something but hesitated.

The carriage swayed along the long street, and the sound of traffic could be heard from time to time.

“Cheng'er…” Qin Canglan finally spoke, “You… have you recalled everything?” Su Cheng lowered his eyes, his body shrouded in a layer of gloom.

“Mm,” he replied softly.

Qin Canglan had guessed it, but hearing him admit it himself still made his heart tighten.

He had imagined the scene of father and son reuniting countless times, but at this moment, he realized that he had a thousand words to say, but he actually had no way to say them.

He lowered his head in shame. “I'm sorry, Cheng'er.”

He was to blame for what happened back then.

He was the one who failed to protect his wife and child, causing his wife to be killed and his son to wander among the commoners.

This separation lasted for thirty years.

His son had grown up, and he was old.

His life had been rushed through decades, but he had missed it.

Su Cheng said, “I want to be alone for a while.”

When Su Xiaoxiao returned to the clinic, Su Cheng had just come out of Su Ergou's room.

He sat in a corner of the courtyard, holding the right pendant he had worn since he was young.

The setting sun cast a long shadow on him.

Su Xiaoxiao walked over and walked down the bench beside him. “Father.”

Su Cheng raised his hand to wipe the corners of his eyes and said nonchalantly, “My daughter is back. Ergou is fine. I just went to see him.”

“Okay.” Su Xiaoxiao nodded and didn't say anything. She just accompanied him quietly.

Su Cheng lowered his head and touched the jade pendant in his hand. He casually asked, “Do you still remember what happened when you were young?”

“I remember a little,” Su Xiaoxiao replied.

“Then do you still remember your mother?” Su Cheng asked.

“I remember.” Su Xiaoxiao searched her memory about Madam Chen. “Mother was very beautiful and very capable. She likes to wash my hair and Ergou's. After washing, half of my hair will be bald.”

Su Cheng was speechless.

He said softly,”Daughter, it's hard for me to long for her like this…”

Su Xiaoxiao turned to look at him. Her eyes were clear and gentle. “What about

Father's mother? What was she like?”

“Very fierce.” Su Cheng said, “Always trying to beat me up with a feather duster.”

Su Xiaoxiao: “That's because you liked to cause trouble when you were young, right?”

Su Xiaoxiao asked, “Did she beat you up?”

“No.” Su Cheng shook his head. “It's my father's fault for not teaching me. She beat him up.”

Su Xiaoxiao was dumbfounded.

Su Cheng continued, “My father has always wanted me to be a promising person. She always said that if you want to be successful, you should be successful yourself. My son can just be himself.”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “What an open-minded mother.”

Su Cheng whispered, “I don't want to forget her anymore.”

The scene of her tragic death pained him.

However, the days they spent together were his most precious memories as

Qin Che.

He wanted to remember her as his son.

The competition on the second day changed.

It was supposed to be martial arts on the first day of the tournament, riding and archery on the second day, and the art of war on the third day.

However, the art of war was temporarily moved to the following morning, where it was jointly supervised by the Ministry of War and the Hanlin Academy.

As the Minister of War, Su Yuan did not participate in the invigilation and subsequent reading of the papers to avoid suspicion.

He did not enter the palace. Instead, he went to the Divine Bow Camp outside the capital.

The written test was Qin Jiang's forte. He completed the paper very easily.

Su Cheng grabbed the brush in frustration and finished writing bitterly. He also handed the scroll over with a dark expression.

Qin Jiang knew that Su Cheng did not study in the countryside. Even if he had regained his memory, with the superficial knowledge he had learned before he was six years old, it was impossible for him to understand the art of war.

Su Cheng's defeated expression also confirmed all of this.

In order to ensure the fairness of the competition, the officials of the six departments were invited to review the papers layer by layer. The final results were submitted to the three dukes for review. There had to be no objections among the three dukes before the results of the examination were announced.

But this was already very unfair.

If one could rely on one's talent to train one's muscles and bones when practicing martial arts, the art of war was an actual real book of knowledge. One had to know how to read and write!

It was difficult for Su Cheng to fill his stomach in the countryside, so where would he get the spare money to study?

Everyone could tell that Emperor Jing Xuan was biased, but who could say anything?

Emperor Jing Xuan could have directly snatched the military power for Qin Jiang, but he insisted on setting up a competition. He had put in a lot of effort.

In the afternoon, Qin Jiang and Su Cheng continued to compete in riding and archery.

“Why are you in such a hurry? Are you worried that Big Brother and Fifth Brother will arrive at night?” Su Yu muttered.

Today was the Imperial College's holiday, and Su Qi and Su Yu had also come.

Emperor Jing Xuan did not say it on the surface, but who could not guess that he was worried that something would happen if he delayed? Emperor Jing Xuan's bias towards Qin Jiang was too obvious!

The Old Marquis and Qin Canglan did not speak.

How could they not see through Emperor Jing Xuan's thoughts?

Emperor Jing Xuan wanted to take back the Qin family's military power, but he did not want to bear the infamy of killing a donkey after it was done. Hence, he used Qin Jiang as a raft.

“How are they going to compete in the afternoon?” Su Qi asked.

The Old Marquis pondered for a moment and said, “Logically speaking, riding and shooting are target shooting, but looking at His Majesty's behavior, I'm afraid there will be developments.”

The Old Marquis had guessed correctly. The riding and archery in the afternoon was actually hunting.

Emperor Jing Xuan asked the guards to release a white-tailed fox into the forest. Whoever caught it would be the winner of this round.

Su Yu was puzzled. “It's not that simple, right? Qin Jiang is not Uncle's match. If he really enters the forest, isn't he afraid that Uncle will beat him up?”

As soon as he finished speaking, Emperor Jing Xuan announced that in order to pre-empt the sudden attack of ferocious beasts in the forest and to prevent any deaths on both sides, there would be imperial guards accompanying them.

Su Yu snorted. “No wonder.”

One of the imperial guards followed Qin Jiang, while the other followed Su Cheng.

The gong sounded and the four of them entered the forest of the Royal Hunting Ground.

Su Qi's expression suddenly became strange.

“Second Brother, what's wrong?” Su Yu asked.

On Su Qi's right was Su Yu, and on his left was Su Xiaoxiao.

Su Xiaoxiao looked at him.

Su Qi looked at the imperial guard beside Qin Jiang and muttered, “That person's back… looks a little familiar…”

Chapter 377

Su Xiaoxiao took out the dagger at her waist. “My father's dagger fell off. Please give this to my father.”

Su Qi took the dagger and strode towards the entrance of the hunting ground.

“Uncle! ”

Su Cheng tightened the reins.

The others also habitually looked back.

Su Qi saw that person's face clearly.

After handing the dagger to Su Cheng, he returned to his seat.

The Old Marquis and Qin Canglan were called over by Emperor Jing Xuan. Wei

Ting was not there either. He was there to supervise the marking of the papers. Su Yu said, “What's wrong, Second Brother? You don't look right.”

Su Qi clenched his fists and said with a serious expression, “The imperial guard beside Qin Jiang… was… the archer who hid in the forest that night!”

Su Yu was stunned. “You mean the expert who escaped from Big Brother?”

Su Qi nodded. “That's right!”

Su Yu confirmed again, “The was the one who assassinated the Third Prince and Wei Ting?”

Su Qi said seriously, “It's him! He covered his face that night, but I remember his figure and eyes… There's a small scar on his right eyelid… I can't be wrong!

Oh no, Uncle is in danger!”

Su Yu was a little confused. “Second Brother… I don't understand..

Su Xiaoxiao explained patiently, “Wei Ting and Xiao Zhonghua were assassinated. The Eldest Prince arrived with the imperial guards and killed the last few survivors. At that time, the archer in the forest escaped. If that archer was also from the imperial guards, it proves that the Eldest Prince's appearance that night was not a coincidence. The assassination was arranged by him!”

She and Wei Ting had long guessed this, but Su Yu did not think too deeply about it.

Su Qi nodded. “That's right!”

Su Yu was still puzzled. “But what does this have to do with whether Uncle is in danger?”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “No matter who wins tonight, the Emperor intends to hand the military power to Xiao Zhonghua through marriage. How would the Eldest Prince be willing to let his younger brother obtain military power? He will definitely stop it.”

Su Yu seemed to understand a little. “How would he stop it?”

Su Xiaoxiao said calmly, “Kill them both.”

Su Yu's face paled in shock. “What?!”

“This, this, this…” Su Yu lowered his voice and said, “Is he so bold? This is under His Majesty's nose!”

His Majesty's nose!”

Su Qi said coldly, “It's because he's right under our noses that no one will suspect him. Besides, if he's not bold, how can he be the emperor?”

In this world, the timid would starve to death while the bold would die from overeating.

Su Qi and Su Xiaoxiao looked at Xiao Duye, who was chatting happily with Emperor Jing Xuan.

The siblings exchanged glances and stood up at the same time.

Su Yu asked, “What are you doing? Don't tell me you're going to report the Eldest Prince?”

Su Qi shook his head. “There's no evidence. It's useless even if we report it. At most, the Eldest Prince will stop the operation and blame us.”

Su Yu probed tentatively, “Then..

Su Qi said, “We have something to do and have to leave.”

Su Yu panicked. “Hey, Second Brother! Daya! You guys… bring me along!”

Su Xiaoxiao said to him, “Stay here and find a chance to tell Xiao Zhonghua.”

Su Yu asked softly, “Is he reliable? Will he help Qin Jiang and use the Eldest

Prince to kill Uncle?” Su Xiaoxiao paused. “He won't.”

“Let's go,” Su Qi said.

“Hey, hey, hey, you guys…” Su Yu wanted to shout, but he did not dare to be too loud. He could only watch as the two of them left.

The royal hunting ground was not in the palace. There were no impenetrable walls around it, but there was a natural barrier. It was not easy to sneak in.

“Although my martial arts aren't as good as Big Brother's, in terms of familiarity with the terrain, Big Brother isn't as good as me.” Su Qi smiled.

He brought Su Xiaoxiao to the other side of the forest.

It was a seemingly calm lake.

“Wait for me here. I'll sneak in from below.”

“No need.”

Su Xiaoxiao said.

“You know how to swim?” Su Qi asked.

“A little.” Su Xiaoxiao.

She said a little, but as soon as she got into the water, she left Su Qi far behind like a fish.

Su Qi remarked, “Your definition of a little bit is more than a little bit different from mine.”

After Su Cheng entered the forest, he immediately began to search for the white-tailed fox.

However, the forest was so big. Where could he find a little fox?

Wasn't this deliberately torturing him?

“Has His Majesty always been like this?” He asked the imperial guard beside him.

The imperial guard did not reply.

“Do you think I can fool them if I find a similar one?”

The imperial guard still did not answer.

“If I search for ten days to half a month, will it still count after I go out?”

The imperial guard tightened his grip on the reins.

“If I can't find it, that guy shouldn't be able to find it either. If he finds it and I rob him, will it be mine?”

The imperial guard was about to lose control.

Su Cheng sighed. “You're so young. Why are you mute?”

The imperial guard who was trying his best to control his rampage was speechless.

Su Cheng rode his horse in the forest for a while and unexpectedly bumped into Qin Jiang.

Su Cheng raised his eyebrows and said, “Yo, isn't this the defeated opponent?”

Qin Jiang sneered. “Su Cheng, don't be smug. The prey is mine. I'll definitely win today!”

Su Cheng said, “Then I'll follow you.”

Qin Jiang was stunned.

Su Cheng gave him a look that signaled him to leave quickly. “Go ahead and look. Why aren't you looking anymore?”

“I'm still waiting to rob you!”

Qin Jiang gritted his teeth.

Su Cheng followed closely. If Qin Jiang went east, he would go east too. If Qin Jiang went west, he would go west too.

Finally, Qin Jiang couldn't take it anymore. “Can you stop following me!”

Su Cheng asked, “Did they say that I'm not allowed to follow you?”

Qin Jiang was so angry that he fell backward. He was not leaving!

He dismounted and found a big tree to sit under.

Su Cheng also slowly sat down opposite him.

It was lunchtime.

Qin Jiang had never thought of eating in the forest. He only brought a water bag.

Su Cheng was different.

His daughter had prepared lunch for him!

Su Cheng untied his bag from the saddle and took out the food box. After opening it, he revealed a glossy braised chicken drumstick, two yellow and orange minced pork buns, two pieces of dried meat sprinkled with sesame seeds, and four oily and fragrant wife biscuits.

He even drank fruit wine!

Su Cheng ate heartily.

Qin Jiang swallowed hard.

Was he here to hunt or to have a picnic?!

Qin Jiang wasn't hungry at first, but Su Cheng was eating too happily, making him hungry.

Su Cheng picked up a wife cake. “Do you want to eat it?”

Qin Jiang gulped. “I…”

Su Cheng: “Even if you want it, I won't give it to you!”

Qin Jiang was dumbfounded.

After eating and drinking his fill, Su Cheng asked Qjn Jiang, “Aren't you leaving?

Qin Jiang said angrily, “If you want to leave, go by yourself.”

Su Cheng: “Then I won't leave either.”

Qin Jiang was speechless and frowned coldly.

He actually had a way to chase after that white-tailed fox, but he had to shake off Su Cheng.

However, Su Cheng was like a plaster…

Qin Jiang had a headache!

“What are you looking at?” Su Cheng asked impatiently.

Qin Jiang was about to say that he wasn't looking at him when he looked up and realized that Su Cheng wasn't talking to him.

Su Cheng was staring at the imperial guard beside him..

Chapter 378

Qin Jiang's gaze swept across the imperial guard.

This person had not spoken since he entered the forest. For some reason, Qin Jiang vaguely felt that his gaze was a little too cold.

However, when he thought of the other party's identity and duty, Qin Jiang felt relieved.

To put it bluntly, Qin Jiang had been protected too well by Qin Canglan and the Old Marquis all these years. He had learned some skills, but he lacked the instinct to sense danger.

Su Cheng had crawled out of the pile of dead people in the year of the famine. At that time, the craziest thing was to eat one's son. He was not anyone's son. If anyone caught him, he would die.

In order to survive, he had no choice but to train his beast-like crisis instincts.

He might not be able to tell who had ill intentions toward him, but he could sense it.

There was something wrong with this imperial guard.

“Hehe, isn't that because you're annoying?

Qin Jiang retorted sarcastically.

Su Cheng raised his eyebrows and smiled. “It's better to be hated than useless. Speaking of which, is it because there are still traces of the medicine left in your body? Is that why you don't even have the strength to hunt today?” At the mention of this, Qin Jiang's expression quickly darkened.

He was forced to use a hidden weapon in the arena. In the end, not only did he not injure Su Cheng, but Su Cheng snatched it away and injured him.

He had lost all his face in front of so many people!

Qin Jiang's hatred and jealousy towards Su Cheng could be said to have reached an extreme. If not for the two imperial guards guarding him, Qin Jiang would probably have had a life and death battle with Su Cheng on the spot.

Su Cheng did not take Qin Jiang's words to heart. He was a person who bore grudges, but he would not be easily angered by a few words.

He was more concerned about the imperial guard beside Qin Jiang.

Su Cheng took out the dagger that his daughter had asked Su Qi to give him and played with it in his hand before putting it back into the scabbard at his waist.

He planned to get up and leave.

At this moment, a white figure flashed past not far away at an extremely fast speed.

Su Cheng turned his head sharply and saw a white tail burrowing into the grass.

It was the white-tailed fox!

To be honest, this white-tailed fox did not match its name at all. It was clearly white all over, and there was a hint of red on the tip of its tail.

Su Cheng felt that it should be called White Fox or Red-tailed Fox.

This was his mission today. If he took it down, he would be able to defeat Qin Jiang.

He swiftly mounted his horse.

Qin Jiang had also discovered the prey. He hurriedly got on his horse and chased after the white-tailed fox.

Qin Jiang was experienced in hunting. He was confident that he could take down the White-tailed Fox before Su Cheng did.

However, he did not expect that Su Cheng's horse would suddenly charge at his horse!

His horse was frightened. It raised its front hooves and turned to the side!

Qin Jiang gritted his teeth and pulled the reins.

Although he managed to stop it in time, Su Cheng managed to shake him off because of the delay.

Qin Jiang watched with killing intent as Su Cheng rode away.

If he was not mistaken, that horse just now… was Qin Canglan's mount!

Qin Canglan!

He had been his son for twenty vears, but he had never ridden his mount!

Su Cheng had only been back for a month and Qin Canglan had already given his mount to him!

Why?

They were both sons of Qin Canglan, but why was Qin Canglan so biased!

He hated it!

Not only did he hate Su Cheng, but he also hated Qin Canglan to the core!

He hated Qin Canglan even more!

He wanted to obtain military power and ruthlessly trample Su Cheng under his feet. He wanted Qin Canglan to widen his eyes and see what would happen to the son he was biased toward…

He would not let any of them have an easy time!

Qin Jiang, who was burning with anger, spurred his horse and chased after Su Cheng.

So what if he had Qin Canglan's mount? Su Cheng's riding skills were not as good as his, and his familiarity with the terrain was not as good as his…

The imperial guard behind him looked coldly at Qin Jiang and Su Cheng, who had entered the depths of the forest. He mounted his horses expressionlessly.

“Look! There are hoof prints here.”

Su Qi pointed at a wet patch of soil under the tree and said, “Why do the footprints seem to have parted ways? They're heading south and southeast.

Which one is Uncle's?”

Su Cheng was the uncle of the brothers, but the brothers all said that word at the same time.

“Southeast.” Su Xiaoxiao.

“How do you know?” Su Qi was puzzled.

Su Xiaoxiao pointed at the hoof prints on the ground, “There are some with the deepest hoof prints here.”

Su Qi suddenly understood. “Ah, I understand. Uncle is riding Granduncle's horse today. That horse is stronger than ordinary horses, and the hoof prints are the deepest.”

This little cousin was very observant.

Su Qi said, “From the hoof prints, the two teams have separated. Uncle is safe for the time being.”

Su Xiaoxiao pondered, “No, it would be disadvantageous if they split up.”

When the four of them were together, it was inconvenient for the archer to attack. However, if they separated, he would first kill Qin Jiang, then kill Su Cheng and another companion…

Perhaps the worst possibility was that the two imperial guards were in cahoots.

In that case, Su Cheng would really be unable to defeat four people with two punches.

An expert who could escape from Su MO was not someone Su Cheng, who had only learned martial arts for a month, could deal with.

Hearing Su Xiaoxiao's analysis, Su Qi felt a chill run down his spine. After all, the imperial guards were under the First Prince's jurisdiction. If he could plant a trusted aide, he could naturally plant a second one.

Previously, Su Qi had hoped that Qin Jiang would die. Now, he hoped that Qin Jiang could live and at least help his uncle bear some damage. Otherwise, it would be too disadvantageous for his uncle to fight two against one!

He frowned and said, “Let's go! Hurry up and chase after them!”

On the other side, Su Cheng caught up with the White-tailed Fox. However, the White-tailed Fox was abnormally cunning. Su Cheng almost caught it a few times, but it escaped from his hands.

Qin Jiang was actually not far away. He could hear the movements of Su Cheng and another imperial guard.

Qin Jiang felt that the imperial guard behind him was getting further and further away. He turned around and said, “If you can't keep up, don't follow! I'll meet you here later!”

The other party subconsciously reached for his waist. “Got it.”

Qin Jiang turned around.

Was it an illusion?

That person just now… was holding a bow?

Qin Jiang rode his horse a few steps and looked back suspiciously. Who knew that the imperial guard was no longer on the horse?

Qin Jiang's heart skipped a beat.

In the next second, a shadow enveloped him.

He looked up, and the imperial guard appeared on the branch above him.

When did the other party use his Light-body Technique? He actually did not notice it at all!

Wait, that wasn't the point. The point was why the other party—

The imperial guard held his sword and stabbed at the Baihui acupoint above Qin Jiang's head!

Qin Jiang rolled and fell from his horse.

The imperial guard's sword stabbed Qin Jiang's mount, and it let out a painful roar.

Su Cheng frowned strangely.

What happened?

Why did he hear… a horse's scream?

Qin Jiang knew that Su Cheng was not far away. After falling to the ground, he immediately wanted to call out to Su Cheng, but the other party was too fast and kicked his mute acupoint!

“Aiya! The prey has escaped!”

The moment Su Cheng was distracted, the little thing crawled into the grass again.

Should he chase after his prey or go to Qin Jiang's position to take a look?

Did something happen to that guy?

Would he be blamed if something happened?

Su Cheng did not care if Qin Jiang lived or died, but he could not let Qin Jiang's death affect his results.

Su Cheng was usually noisy and carefree. When it came to serious matters, he had his own judgment.

He thought about it and decided to check on Qin Jiang first.

Just as he tightened the reins and turned around, the imperial guard beside him moved.

The imperial guard silently followed behind Su Cheng, his large hand silently reaching for the dagger at his waist.

“You…” Su Cheng turned around.

The imperial guard shot out flying daggers at Su Cheng!

Su Cheng's eyebrows twitched!

However, the flying dagger did not hit Su Cheng. Instead, it flew past Su Cheng's head and shot straight at the other imperial guard who was slashing at Su Cheng with his sword!

Clang!

The other party blocked the flying dagger with his long sword, but because of this, he missed the best opportunity to assassinate Su Cheng.

“Gosh!” Su Cheng's body shook. He also realized that he had almost been killed.

He hurriedly spurred his horse a few steps forward and pulled out the large saber on his saddle.

The imperial guard that had assassinated Su Cheng flipped a few times in the air and landed steadily on the ground in front of the two of them.

Su Cheng looked at him and then at the imperial guard beside him. This guy had saved him just now.

“What's going on?” he asked.

The imperial guard beside him said indifferently, “Leave first and chase after your prey. Leave this to me. Don't worry…” Su Cheng rode off on his horse!

A certain imperial guard was dumbfounded.

A guard's face was ashen as he finished his sentence. ' …about me.”

The other imperial guard watched as Su Cheng left. His face sank as he looked at his companion. “You're not Imperial Bodyguard Cheng. Who are you?”

A certain someone sneered and raised the corners of his lips. He adjusted the human skin mask on his face, pulled out his long sword, turned around, and tossed his head. He said arrogantly…

“You mortals are not worthy of asking for the name of God!”

The guard was rendered speechless.

Was this person seriously ill?

Chapter 379

The guard looked at the back of someone's head like he was a fool and had the urge to hammer him to death.

It took an enormous effort to bring his thoughts back to the present. “Do you think you can stop me easily?”

“Stop you? Ha, I can crush you with one hand!”

Swoosh!

The imperial guard's movement technique was extremely fast. He flashed behind Yuchi Xiu and stabbed his sword into Yuchi Xiu's back.

Yuchi Xiu was stunned.

Yuchi Xiu turned his head and looked at the armor he had pierced through. He frowned in displeasure. “I really like this armor! You've angered me!”

The guard was stunned.

This person… was not injured?

Yuchi Xiu's arm stretched backward, and his fingertips clamped onto his longsword. With a light bend, he broke the blade.

The imperial guard immediately used his Light-body Technique to retreat ten steps.

He came to the saddle and retrieved his bow.

He was best at archery. No one could survive his arrows!

He quickly nocked an arrow and shot it at Yuchi Xiu!

On the other hand, Su Cheng had chased after the white-tailed fox and encountered a savage who had scurried out from behind a tree.

Su Cheng was so scared that his hair stood on end. He thought he had seen a ghost in broad daylight.

He pulled his horse and was about to step down…

“It's me!”

The other party said in a panic.

Su Cheng tightened his grip on the reins and turned to the side. After stabilizing himself, he stared fixedly at the unkempt man covered in mud and leaves.

“Uh… Qin Jiang?”

Qin Jiang let out a long sigh. “It's me.”

Su Cheng sized him up with an indescribable expression. “How did you end up like this? By the way, I saw the imperial guard beside you just now. Did you order him to kill me?”

As he spoke, Su Cheng's expression gradually became serious.

Qin Jiang stared at him speechlessly. “If I could order the imperial guard around, would I have ended up like this? I almost got killed too, okay? If I didn't run fast…

He stopped mid-sentence.

He must not lose face in front of Su Cheng.

“Did you jump into a cesspit?” Su Cheng asked.

“It's a mud pit!” Qin Jiang corrected him angrily.

It was not an ordinary mud pit. It was a mud pit under the miasma. At a glance, it looked like a swamp.

It was for this reason that the imperial guard did not jump down with him.

Otherwise, he would have died long ago.

“How did you escape?” Qin Jiang looked at Su Cheng in confusion. He clearly remembered that the imperial guard was charging towards Su Cheng.

Su Cheng snorted. “Heh, how can a mere imperial guard be my match? I can beat him down with a single punch!”

Nothing could affect his bragging!

Qin Jiang hit the nail on the head. “It's the imperial guard who was traveling with you, right? You're really lucky!”

There were two imperial guards in total, but he was assigned to the one with ill intentions.

How could there be so many coincidences in the world? It was just that someone had prepared meticulously in advance.

Qin Jiang and Su Cheng knew nothing about Wei Ting's arrangements.

Without a horse, Qin Jiang wanted to snatch Su Cheng's.

However, before he could make a move, another wave of assassins appeared. This time, it was not just one, but a real wave.

Qin Jiang said seriously, “Su Cheng, it's best if we join forces to deal with them.. '

Su Cheng snorted. “Deal with your grandpa! You can keep them!”

Su Cheng clamped his legs on the horse's belly and left!

Qin Jiang was furious!

The assassins who appeared were all masked. There were at least ten of them.

They were determined to kill him and Su Cheng!

Why did the other party do this?

Could it be that… the other party also wanted the Qin family's military power?

Other than this, Qin Jiang couldn't think of any other possibility.

Although Qin Canglan was still alive, he was already in his twilight years. When he was old, his heart would also become weak. At this moment, if Qin Canglan lost his son again, he would definitely not be able to withstand the blow. The other party had wanted to target Qin Canglan and destroyed the Protectorate.

As he pondered, a few assassins raised their long swords and called out to him. The others used their Light-body Technique to chase after Su Cheng. He originally thought that Su Cheng would be stopped, but a strange scene happened.

An arrow shot from the depths of the dense forest and shot straight into the heart of the leader, shooting him down from midair.

Immediately after, three more arrows were shot out, and the three assassins were shot down from the sky.

Qin Jiang was shocked.

Was there still an archer lying in an ambush in the forest?

Such precise archery… even he could not compare to it.

Could it be someone from the Divine Bow Camp?!

Chapter 380

After his companion was killed, two more assassins gave chase. The other person followed the direction of the arrow to search for the archer hiding in the dark.

However, he did not even have the chance to see the other partys appearance before his head was pierced by an arrow!

Looking at the assassin who flew out and fell to the ground, Qin Jiang's hair stood on end!

When did the Divine Bow Camp… produce such a ruthless archer?

Su Cheng ran wildly ahead. He knew that someone was chasing after him.

He turned around.

One was missing.

He turned around again and saw that there were fewer of them.

When he turned around for the third time, all the assassins chasing him had disappeared.

It was… quite confusing.

After dealing with the last two assassins, Qin Jiang was also injured. He sat on the ground, panting.

Behind a vine in the distance, an ice-cold arrow was aimed at him.

Suddenly, a well-defined hand gently pressed on the arrow.

“We can't kill him. If Qin Jiang dies, Uncle will look very suspicious. At that time, there might even be witnesses who will jump out and insist that Uncle instructed them to assassinate Qin Jiang. His Majesty doesn't want Uncle to obtain military power. No matter how Uncle proves his innocence, His Majesty will use this opportunity to convict Uncle.” The bow and arrow slowly descended.

In the next second.

The big bow was suddenly raised. The arrow left the bowstring and hit Qin Jiang's thigh!

Qin Jiang let out a miserable scream. “Ah!”

Su Cheng, who had already gone far away, looked at the startled birds in the forest. “Oh, why do I seem to hear Qin Jiang's scream again?

“If something happens to Qin Jiang, will they suspect me?”

“But there are so manv of them. If thev kill me too. won't I lose the chance to be
suspected… Forget it, I'll save my life first!”

Several tents were set up at the entrance of the hunting ground.

In the largest tent, Emperor Jing Xuan was testing military tactics on sandtable with Qin Canglan and the Old Marquis.

This was the entertainment of Emperor Jing Xuan and the generals. It was more interesting than playing chess.

The princes, Princess Jingning, and Princess Hui An watched the battle from the side.

Princess Hui An felt bored and yawned repeatedly.

A figure flashed past the door. Princess Jingning gave Tao Zhi a look.

Taozhi understood and walked out with the empty fruit plate.

Not long after, she entered the tent and reported to Princess Jingning in a low voice.

Princess Jingning said to Xiao Zhonghua, “Third Brother, I want to eat oranges.”

Princess Hui An snorted coldly and said, “If you want to eat oranges, get someone to pick them yourself. Why are you asking my Third Brother?” Third Brother was hers!

Xiao Zhonghua looked at Princess Jingning without batting an eyelid and said with a smile, “Coincidentally, Hui An likes it too. I'll go pick some for you.”

These words sounded like they were picked for Princess Hui An. Princess Hui An enjoyed it and let go of Xiao Zhonghua's arm.

Xiao Zhonghua left the tent and saw Su Yu, who seemed to be passing by.

“Is it for the Duke of Zhenbei? The Duke of Zhenbei is deducing the sand table with my father. Don't worry, I'll remind him to take the medicine.” After Xiao Zhonghua finished speaking, he took the medicine bottle from Su

Yu.

Su Yu looked at the patrolling imperial guards and said, “Thank you, Your Highness.”

After Su Yu left, a young eunuch carried snacks into the tent.

Xiao Zhonghua looked at him meaningfully.

Not long after, Xiao Duye came out with an ugly expression.

Seeing Xiao Zhonghua at the door, Xiao Duye's expression stiffened slightly.

In the next second, Xiao Duye smiled and said, “Third Brother, why are you standing outside?”

Xiao Zhonghua said warmly, “Oh, I'll be going in soon. Why did you come out?”

Xiao Duye's smile did not change. “It's nothing. I'm just thinking that something might have happened to Lord Qin and the Protector Duke after going in for so long. I plan to bring people in to look for them.” Xiao Zhonghua said gently, “I'll go with Big Brother.”

“There's no need, Third Brother.”

“I'll go report to Father.”

After Xiao Zhonghua finished speaking, he entered the tent without waiting for Xiao Duye's reply.

“Father has agreed.”

Xiao Zhonghua said to Xiao Duye after he came out.

Xiao Duye put on a fake smile and said, “Then, I'll have to trouble Third Brother to come with me.”

Princess Jingning walked out. “Wait, I'll go too.”

Xiao Duye said seriously, “Jingning, don't mess around. The forest is a hunting ground. It's very dangerous.”

Princess Jingning said lightly, “I'm just going in to hunt a little rabbit. My two brothers can protect me, right?”

Xiao Duye's mother was a Jade Concubine. She was one grade lower than Xiao Zhonghua's mother and was currently attached to the Empress.

Furthermore, the power of her maternal family was not outstanding..

Chapter 381

In short, Princess Jingning must not be harmed under Xiao Duye's nose.

Otherwise, the Empress would kill Concubine Yu. Of course, she would also take her anger out on Xiao Zhonghua and Concubine Xian.

“Me too, me too!”

Princess Hui An was determined not to let Jingning take the lead. If Princess Jingning could do it, she would do it!

Xiao Duye secretly clenched his fists.

“Mother said that you can't enter the hunting ground. Have you forgotten that you were injured during the last hunt?”

Xiao Zhonghua adhered to the principle of not bringing Princess Hui An into the forest and coaxed his sister nicely.

Princess Jingning was not in a hurry. She waited calmly and occasionally mocked Princess Hui An, telling her not to embarrass herself. Princess Hui An was so angry that she almost fought with her.

“Third Brother, you decide!”

“Brother, come and be the judge.”

Princess Hui An brought out Xiao Zhonghua, and Princess Jingning brought out Xiao Duye.

After a while, the matter of entering the forest was delayed.

Just as Princess Hui An was about to complain to Emperor Jing Xuan, the young eunuch at the entrance rang the gong.

This meant that the riding and archery competition had ended and someone had come out.

It was Su Cheng who came out.

He was wearing shining armor and riding a tall horse, like a victorious general on the battlefield.

The afterglow of the setting sun shone on his handsome face, casting a golden and cold light.

He gripped the reins tightly in his right hand and held the long saber in his left.

There was a man across the saddle.

When they got closer, everyone realized that it was the unconscious Qin Jiang.

Xiao Duye's eyes flashed.

Xiao Zhonghua asked, “Lord Protector, what's going on?”

Su Cheng said with a solemn expression, “It's a long story. Please allow me to report to His Majesty.”

In the tent, Emperor Jing Xuan summoned Su Cheng.

Su Cheng first took off the cloth bag hanging on the saddle and showed everyone the white-tailed fox he had captured alive.

The white-tailed fox's leg was covered with a seal, so it could not be faked.

Su Cheng had undoubtedly won this match.

Qin Canglan and the Old Marquis were so excited that they almost burst into tears—Cheng'er had defended the Qin family's military power!

The officials were shocked and speechless.

Su Cheng, the descendant of the Qin family who grew up in the countryside, had actually completely defeated Qin Jiang.

Not only was his martial arts superior to Qin Jiang's, but his horsemanship was also superior to Qin Jiang's.

There was only one Art of War left that had yet to be announced, but Su Cheng, who had won two rounds in a row, had already locked on to victory.

What was this talk about him being a farmer, a cowherd, and a country bully?

This man was clearly radiant!

“Father…”

Princess Jingning reminded Emperor Jing Xuan softly.

Emperor Jing Xuan regained his awareness and composed himself. He did not immediately announce the final result. Instead, he asked, “What happened to Qin Jiang? Why was he injured? Did you hurt him?”

The accusation was too obvious.

Qin Canglan and the Old Marquis' expressions darkened.

Princess Jingning lowered her eyes and did not speak.

Su Cheng replied without changing his expression, “Your Majesty, Qin Jiang was not injured by me, but by an assassin.”

Emperor Jing Xuan frowned and asked, “Assassin? Where did the assassin come from?”

Su Cheng sighed and said, “An assassin sneaked into the Imperial Guards. He was the one who followed Qin Jiang. Not long after we entered the forest, he ambushed Qin Jiang. Then, he ambushed me. Fortunately, Guard Cheng beside me sacrificed himself to protect me. I only suffered light injuries.” With that, he rolled up his sleeve, revealing a bloody right arm.

The expressions of Qin Canglan and the Old Marquis changed!

After showing off, Su Cheng pulled up his sleeves. He was afraid that he would be exposed if he was a second late.

Emperor Jing Xuan asked coldly, “Where are the two Imperial Guards?”

Su Cheng said sadly, “It wasn't easy to get rid of this imperial guard. Who knew that another group of masked assassins would come? I lured away a portion of them. Qin Jiang dealt with two of them. As for the rest… Imperial Bodyguard Cheng died with them. Their corpses are in the forest.”

Emperor Jing Xuan said to Xiao Duye and Xiao Zhonghua, “Go find them.”

The two of them agreed. “Yes!”

The two of them led a group of people and found everyone's corpses according to the route Su Cheng had pointed out.

Two of them were wearing armor. One of them was an archer from the forest that night, and the other was a real Imperial Bodyguard Cheng.

In addition, there were more than ten corpses of men in black.

Xiao Duye looked at the corpses on the ground in disbelief and muttered, “How could this be…”

Xiao Zhonghua looked at him in confusion. “Brother, what are you talking about?”

Xiao Duye composed himself and said, “I… I say, who did it? How did this happen? Since we found the corpse, let's hurry back..”

Chapter 382

Emperor Jing Xuan was furious that such an accident had happened during the riding and archery competition.

Qin Jiang was unconscious and no testimony could be retrieved from him.

According to Su Cheng, the traitor of the imperial guards had killed Qin Jiang's horse, snatched Qin Jiang's bow and arrow, and shot Qin Jiang while he was escaping.

Then, after killing the traitor, Imperial Bodyguard Cheng took back his bow and arrow and shot the group of assassins in black.

“Lord Protector, these are all your one-sided words,” an official from Xiao Duye's camp said.

Su Cheng raised his eyebrows. “So you think I injured Qin Jiang and killed two imperial guards and so many assassins? You don't really think I have this ability, do you? Although I'm indeed very powerful, look carefully. Two imperial guards died from sword wounds. My weapon is a saber! Also, my archery skills aren't that accurate… Otherwise, why would I capture my prey
alive…”

When Emperor Jing Xuan heard this, his eyes were so cold that they could freeze a hundred fish.

If he had known that Su Cheng's weakness was archery, would he have let Qin Jiang win through a simple contest instead of doing such complicated things?

“Maybe you know how to use a sword…” the official said.

Xiao Zhonghua said unhurriedly, “Assistant Minister Zhao, killing the imperial guards is a capital offense. There's no enmity between the Protector Duke and the imperial guards. If he really did it, what's his motive? Was he asking to be dragged back to be beheaded? If he really wanted to kill, he should have killed Qin Jiang, right? After all, the person who occupied his identity all these years was Qin Jiang. Since he killed two imperial guards, why did he let Qin Jiang

The Assistant Minister of Revenue, Official Zhao, successfully choked.

Su Cheng had no reason to attack the imperial guards. Of course, it could also be said that he wanted to attack Qin Jiang, and the imperial guards stopped him from being killed.

And after the imperial guards died?

Why did he keep Qin Jiang alive?

Moreover, they had all seen how powerful Su Cheng's martial arts were. He was indeed above Qin Jiang, but to say that he could seriously injure Qin Jiang alone, kill two imperial guards, and shoot ten assassins to death…

They would not believe it.

Emperor Jing Xuan did not believe it either.

If he believed it, wouldn't he be admitting that Su Cheng's talent was more powerful than Qin Canglan's?

It was not clear if they could find evidence to convict Su Cheng in the end, but the military power was probably Su Cheng's.

“Father, it's time to announce the results,” Princess Jingning reminded softly.

From the beginning, Emperor Jing Xuan had been playing dumb. He was unwilling to face the results of the investigation.

Princess Jingning's voice wasn't loud, but everyone could hear her clearly.

“That's right. We've got the prey and we've recovered the body. Isn't it time to announce the results?”

Emperor Jing Xuan's face darkened as he looked unwillingly at the white-tailed fox in Su Cheng's bag.

Su Cheng seemed to have read Emperor Jing Xuan's mind. He did not give Emperor Jing Xuan a chance to show off. He said seriously, “You didn't say that we have to kill it with arrows. You only said that we just have to hunt it down!”

More importantly… who would hunt with their bare hands?

This was really unexpected.

Emperor Jing Xuan's face darkened. “Riding and archery competition… Qin Che wins!”

Emperor Jing Xuan gritted his teeth.

Many officials were so happy that they clenched their fists!

It was very strange. They clearly did not think highly of Su Cheng in the beginning and did not even look forward to his win. However, Su Cheng's counterattack in the past few days was too exciting. Even if they did not participate in the competition between the two families, they could not help but want to cheer for Su Cheng.

Emperor Jing Xuan's cold gaze swept across the crowd.

The officials straightened their expressions and returned to their usual expressionless faces.

Only Qin Canglan and the Old Marquis were still grinning from ear to ear.

They had no choice. Su Cheng was too hardworking!

Their old faces were glowing!

“Don't be happy too early. There's still one more match that hasn't come to fruition.” Emperor Jing Xuan said calmly.

As soon as he said this, Qin Canglan and the Old Marquis's smiles froze and they looked at Emperor Jing Xuan strangely.

The others were also surprised.

There was another one… Was he referring to the art of war?

Su Cheng had already won two of the three matches. It didn't matter if he won or lost in the art of war, right?

Emperor Jing Xuan put on an innocent tone. “You have to win all three rounds to qualify for military power. Why? Didn't I say it? Fude Quan?” Eunuch Fu understood that he had to take the blame again.

He bowed and said, “His Majesty asked me to pass the message. I forgot… It's my fault. Please punish me, Your Majesty!”

As he spoke, he knelt down in fear.

How many people in the bureaucracy were not smart? How could they not tell that Emperor Jing Xuan was deliberately making things difficult for Su Cheng?

Chapter 383

If Qin Jiang had won two rounds in a row, Emperor Jing Xuan would not have let out a fart.

Cough cough, this is too much. They couldn't be so disrespectful to His Majesty, even in their hearts…

But then again, Emperor Jing Xuan did not do a good job.

Su Cheng was Qin Canglan's biological son. He was originally qualified to inherit everything, but someone else had impersonated him for twenty years.

It was already miserable enough for him to be stranded among the commoners and grow up stumbling. Now, he had to take back what belonged to him in such an unfair way.

It wasn't easy for him to win, but Emperor Jing Xuan did it again.

Some neutral officials could not stand it anymore.

This Su Cheng was really miserable. Too miserable.

But what could they do? Oppose Emperor Jing Xuan?

There were some things that they could fight for, but there were some things that they could not.

It was the same for Emperor Jing Xuan. There were some things that he could be shameless about but not for others.

In this world, no one could be always stubborn. It all depended on who grasped the ingenious balance first.

Emperor Jing Xuan slowly picked up his teacup and gently stirred the tea leaves with the lid. He asked, “Is the result out?”

Eunuch Fu quickly sent someone to ask.

Not long after, the young eunuch returned and reported the results of the military strategy examination.

Emperor Jing Xuan suspected that he had heard wrongly. “Say it again. Whose paper is better?”

The young eunuch trembled. “Su… Su Cheng…”

Seeing the emperor's gloomy face, he did not know what he had done wrong. He could only make wild guesses and change his words, “Qin Che! Qin Che's exam responses were more outstanding! ”

He said Qin Che twice in a row. It seemed that it was indeed not Qin Jiang.

At this moment, Qin Jiang, who was placed on the ground, slowly woke up.

The first thing he heard when he woke up was that Su Cheng had defeated him in the military strategy exam. His blood and Qi surged, and his vision went dark as he fainted again!

This time, the Ministry of War and the Hanlin Academy reviewed the papers together. After that, the three dukes reviewed the results. The degree of importance and rigor was not inferior to those of the imperial examination.

Not only that, Wei Ting even swaggered over to the location.

Naturally, Emperor Jing Xuan did not ask him to go. He was so thick-skinned that no one could chase him away.

Emperor Jing Xuan still did not want to believe it, so he asked someone to bring their exam papers over.

He glanced at the name on the paper and immediately wanted to scold him for making a mistake. After all, Su Cheng's big and clumsy handwriting was worlds apart from Qin Jiang's handwriting. How could he win?

Emperor Jing Xuan had personally come up with this test question. It was not based on the memorization of all kinds of military books by rote. Instead, they had to express their opinions on a battle of the navy.

They had a navy of 1,000 men and 20 warships against an enemy of 10,000 men and 200 warships.

They only had one night. At dawn, the enemy would capture the island.

The cliffs on three sides of the island were a natural barrier that prevented the enemy from going ashore. Only the east side allowed the enemy to go smoothly ashore.

Qin Jiang gave two strategies.

The first was to defend the east bank to death, using the terrain to block the enemy in the water and use the smoke to request reinforcements from the nearby navy.

It would take two days for the nearby navy to arrive, and the various defensive measures of Qinjiang's formation could last for three to five days.

It could be said to be a very successful defense.

His second strategy was to sacrifice 30% of his forces to break out with the ships, in exchange for maximum evacuation at the least cost.

He even described clearly how to arrange troops, how to set up formations, and how to launch a surprise attack.

If they had to forcefully break out of the encirclement, this was indeed the method with the least casualties.

Emperor Jing Xuan was very satisfied. As expected of someone who had been in the Qin family's army for 20 years. His train of thought was clear and his use of the art of war was very mature.

Then, he looked at Su Cheng's exam paper—

Emperor Jing Xuan frowned. “He handed in a blank paper?”

The Hanlin Academy scholar whispered, “…It's on the back.”

Emperor Jing Xuan flipped the paper over. What greeted his eyes were not dense words, but paintings with clear lines.

Compared to words, it was more intuitive and clear at a glance. A battle filled with smoke seemed to leap onto paper.

As night fell, the soldiers on the island began to modify the ship overnight under the command of their commander.

At 1:00 p.m., twenty warships would enter the night in an orderly manner. The soldiers on the warships would beat the war drums, and their robes fluttered in the sea breeze like life-threatening ghosts.

The enemy's alarm would ring. They did not expect the other party to launch a night attack.

This was simply courting death!

The night blocked their vision, but the enemy could accurately determine the direction of the warship through the beating of drums.

“Fire!”

Countless swords shot over.

The drumbeats gradually weakened, followed by the sound of the soldiers falling into the water.

“We hit them! Charge! We must kill them all tonight! Leave no one alive!”

The enemy warships swarmed forward.

However, when they got closer, they gradually realized that something was wrong.

It was too quiet.

Everyone on the ship seemed to be dead!

No, they were all standing, but why… didn't they counterattack?

When they saw that the scarecrow standing on the ship was not a real soldier, they finally realized that they had been tricked.

On all the warships, only the soldiers who were beating the drums were real. And now… those soldiers had long been shot by them…

No, those people were not shot into the water by them. They jumped into the water themselves.

However, the enemy still did not understand the meaning of the other party's actions.

At this moment, a burning arrow sped over from afar and pierced through a wooden barrel on the warship.

The wooden barrel lit up with a bang!

The kerosene on the 20 ships exploded and burned on the surface of the sea. The entire enemy warship fell into a sea of flames.

They won without expending a single soldier!

If he wasn't a general, who could be?

Like Emperor Jing Xuan, the grading officer first looked at Qin Jiang's paper. At that time, he felt that no one could surpass him, but after reading Su Cheng's paper, everyone seemed to have experienced it personally.

His blood was boiling!

Emperor Jing Xuan clenched his fists and could not say a word for a long time.

The exam papers were sent down for the officials to read.

After the officials finished reading, their admiration for Su Cheng reached its peak.

There were two reasons. The first was that this method was indeed unexpected and could be said to be perfect. The second was that everyone's expectations for Su Cheng were too low.

Even if Su Cheng only scored three out of ten, they would still be surprised and amazed. However, Su Cheng scored nine out of ten. How could this not make people applaud?

Emperor Jing Xuan said in a deep voice, “Did you really answer this yourself?”

Su Cheng said, “That's right! If you don't believe me, I can draw it for you again.

Eunuch, can you lend me a pen and paper?”

Eunuch Fu looked at Emperor Jing Xuan nervously.

Emperor Jing Xuan said coldly, “No need!”

He stood up and glared coldly at the unconscious Qin Jiang.. “Qin Che, victory!”

Chapter 384

On a carriage on the official road, Su Xiaoxiao and Su Qi had just wiped the last bit of mud off their hands with a handkerchief.

Su Cheng picked up the carriage in large strides, lifted the curtain, and entered with a grin. “Daughter!”

He also saw Su Qi. “Oh, you're here too.” He wasn't as enthusiastic about Su Qi.

After all, she was not his chubby daughter.

Su Qi greeted politely, “Uncle… Uncle.”

His ncle has regained his memory, right? Could I address him as his uncle now?

Why was he so nervous?

Su Cheng coughed lightly, not knowing if he had agreed.

Su Cheng sized up the two of them and asked, “Daughter, where did you two go? Why are you all wet? Did you fall into the water?” Su Qi secretly glanced at a certain chubby girl.

She did not fall. She dove.

Su Xiaoxiao said calmly, “Oh, Su Qi fell into the river. I pulled him up.”

Su Qi, who had been thrown into the river was speechless.

“Achoo!”

Su Qi sneezed.

The water in April was very cold. Why was this little girl fine?

Su Cheng handed Su Qi a handkerchief.

Su Qi was so touched that tears streamed down his face. His uncle really doted on him!

Su Cheng warned, “Cover your mouth and nose. Don't infect my daughter.”

Su Qi was speechless.

Su Xiaoxiao asked, “Father, is the result out?”

Su Cheng said, “It's out!”

“Who… who won?” Su Qi asked nervously.

It was a sure thing, but for some reason, he was worried that Emperor Jin Xuan would play tricks.

His worries were not unreasonable. Emperor Jing Xuan had resorted to trickery, but he had not won.

Su Cheng explained the small episode of the military strategy examination.

Su Qi frowned. “As expected! I knew things wouldn't go so smoothly…”

He thought of something and looked at Su Cheng in confusion. “But Uncle, you can't even read. Can you understand that test paper? Did you really do it yourself?”

“Why can't I understand? I… I can read!”

A certain someone said without confidence.

At this moment, Wei Ting's carriage passed by.

The officials left one after another. At this moment, there were too many people and eyes, so he did not come over to greet them. Lord Wei, who had hidden his achievements and reputation, sat in his carriage.

“It was Wei Ting, right?” Su Xiaoxiao asked.

Su Cheng looked up at the sky. “What did you say? I don't understand.”

He could still survive!

Wei Ting had indeed cheated in the military strategy examination this time. He had personally snuck into the palace and peeked at the examination paper in advance.

However, the final test was not the one that Wei Ting had seen.

However, Father Su was not stupid. He did not know much about the art of war and did not know how to write.

But he was smart.

If he couldn't write it, couldn't he draw it?

It was not about beauty. It was fine as long as it could be understood.

In the past, when he was on an escort mission, this was how he communicated with others.

He improvised and mastered it. This was probably the legendary talent.

Qin Jiang was too calculative about gains and losses, while Su Cheng was bold enough to not be limited in his thinking.

Outside the hunting ground, the princes and princesses also boarded the carriages one after another.

“Third Brother,” Princess Hui An called out.

Xiao Zhonghua smiled and said gently, “Wait for me in the carriage. I'll go talk to Big Brother. ”

Princess Hui An obediently got into the carriage.

Xiao Zhonghua walked to Xiao Duye's carriage and said, “Big Brother.” Xiao Duye's expression turned ugly.

As one of the commanders of the imperial guards, he was naturally punished by Emperor Jing Xuan for such a huge mistake.

It was expected that he would be punished when Su Cheng and Qin Jiang both survived, but it was unexpected that they survived.

“I want to congratulate Third Brother for being valued by Father.”

Xiao Zhonghua comforted him, “Big Brother, don't be dejected. I believe that

Father was just angry for a moment and took his anger out on you. When Father's anger dissipates, he will naturally let you resume your position.”

It would have been better if he hadn't said this, but once he did, Xiao Duye's face turned even darker.

If Su Cheng had not won, Emperor Jing Xuan would not have been so angry, and his punishment would not have been so severe.

Strictly speaking, the commander of the Guards Legion Corps was Lord Fu, and he was just an assistant. If something happened, he would not be the first to be targeted.

However, he was stripped of his official hat along with Commander Fu. It could be seen how upset Emperor Jing Xuan was with Su Cheng.

“What's the matter, Third Brother?” Xiao Duye asked indifferently.

Xiao Zhonghua said gently, “No, I just saw that Big Brother's expression was very bad, so I came to comfort you.”

“I'm fine. You don't have to worry about me.”

“In that case, I'll go investigate the case.”

What happened in the forest had to be investigated. Emperor Jing Xuan had already handed it over to the Court of Judicial Review and asked Xiao Zhonghua to go to the Court of Judicial Review to help investigate the case.

Xiao Duye felt even more stifled.

He had just been fired, but his brother had been promoted—

However, Xiao Zhonghua did not seem to notice the coldness in his eyes. He smiled gently and got into his carriage.

Xiao Zhonghua and the minister of the Court of Judicial Review went to the Protectorate.

Qin Jiang was already awake and knew that he had lost to Su Cheng. He didn't even have time to lament his misfortune before he was interrogated by Xiao Zhonghua and the minister of the Court of Judicial Review.

He wanted to slander Su Cheng, but he could not.

beside him who had rebelled and suddenly started to hunt him down. He hurriedly fled, and Imperial Bodyguard Cheng beside Su Cheng held back the traitor.

However, there were some discrepancies at the back.

“Su Cheng said that he lured some of them away? Heh, he was the one who abandoned me and fled first! ”

Xiao Zhonghua said, “So, no assassins went after him?”

Qin Jiang choked and said, “Yes.”

Xiao Zhonghua: “How many went?”

Qin Jiang: “About five or six.”

Xiao Zhonghua: “How many did you kill?”

Qin Jiang: “Two.”

Su Cheng was right.

The court minister glanced at Qin Jiang and thought to himself, “You just can't stand Su Cheng. He clearly helped you lure the assassin away, but you still slandered him for abandoning you and escaping.”

“By the way, how's the archer? Is he alright?” Qin Jiang asked.

Xiao Zhonghua and the minister of the Court of Judicial Review looked confused.

“What archer?” Xiao Zhonghua asked.

“Archers from the Divine Bow Camp.” Qin Jiang said, “He helped deal with many assassins, but… he also shot an arrow at me…” At this point, Qin Jiang could not figure it out.

Why did the archer shoot him?

If he wanted to kill him, he was still alive…

After he was hit by the arrow, he quickly fainted and did not know what happened after that.

“There were no archers.” Xiao Zhonghua said, “The person you mentioned who shot the assassin should be Imperial Bodyguard Cheng. After dealing with the traitor of the Imperial Guards, he rushed over to save you and Su Cheng.”

Qin Jiang muttered, “Was it Imperial Bodyguard Cheng? But his archery…

doesn't seem like something a mere imperial guard can have.”

Xiao Zhonghua said, “As for why he shot you, he probably missed. He wanted to shoot the assassin.”

Qin Jiang wanted to say that that person's archery was so precise, he could not have missed. However, other than this, he could not think of any other possibility.

From the beginning to the end, he did not consider that he was Su Cheng's accomplice because he knew that there was no such powerful archer who served Qin Canglan and Su Shuo.

It couldn't be that the two of them were personally involved. What a joke. They were accompanying Emperor Jing Xuan to deduce the sand table.

After leaving the Protectorate, Xiao Zhonghua was about to get into the carriage to return. After a pause, he said to the minister of the Court of Judicial Review, “I'll have to trouble Lord Tong to send someone to the Divine Bow Camp and ask if there were any archers secretly sent to the hunting ground.”

The minister cupped his hands. “Yes, Third Prince.”

At the Wei family, Wei Ting was obediently copying books in his room.

Matriarch Wei had order it.

This was the price of getting into trouble.

His right hand was injured, but his left hand was still functional and writing crooked text. He had to brace himself and copy.

Yuchi Xiu's figure flashed as he entered the room.

“Is it done?” Wei Ting asked.

Yuchi Xiu grabbed a peach and sat on the chair without a care for his image. I he nibbled on it, he said, “Is there anything I can't do?”

Su Xiaoxiao was right about one thing. Imperial Bodyguard Cheng was indee( Xiao Duye's chess piece.

However, Wei Ting had been staring at Xiao Duye the entire time. He had noticed Xiao Duye's little trick and had asked Yuchi Xiu to kill Imperial Bodyguard Cheng in advance and disguise himself as him.

“Ice money. ”

Yuchi Xiu said.

The coroner of the government office was not to be trifled with. Bodyguard Cheng died at noon. In order to prevent the coroner from finding out the tim of his death, Yuchi Xiu had prepared a large amount of ice to freeze the corps

This method was taught by Wei Ting.

“I owe you,” Wei Ting said.

Debt was not a burden.

Yuchi Xiu said unhappily, “You clearly just won five thousand taels from Xiao Duye!”

Wei Ting thought about it and seemed to think that his words made sense, so he opened the money bag, pulled out a copper coin from it, and placed it in Yuchi Xiu's hand.

Yuchi Xiu was stunned.

Yuchi Xiu clenched his fists.

Stingy, huh?

No pay?

Alright, then he wouldn't tell Wei Ting that that girl entered the forest today!

Actually, even Su Cheng didn't know that Su Xiaoxiao had gone in. He thought that those assassins were killed by Yuchi Xiu alone.

Of course, Su Cheng didn't know from the start that Yuchi Xiu had disguised himself as a guard. He saw Yuchi Xiu disposing of the corpse.

To be honest, that scene was a little awkward.

The ending was good. Su Cheng was very loyal. When he found out that Yuchu Xiu was sent by his son-in-law, he even helped Yuchi Xiu arrange the corpse.

Yuchi Xiu helped Su Cheng disguise an injury.

The two of them discussed their plan to deal with the aftermath and addressed many loopholes. They regretted not meeting sooner.

When he was with Su Cheng, Yuchi Xiu felt that he was a wise man. Both of them were shining with wisdom.

When facing Wei Ting, Yuchi Xiu often felt that he was a retard…

“Hmph!”

Yuchi Xiu left without looking back!

He wanted to find his soul brother!

Chapter 385

Protector Duke's Estate, West Courtyard.

Qin Jiang was lying unconscious on the bed. The servant had changed his clothes, and pots of blood were brought out of the room. Qin Yanran, who was watching from the corridor, was terrified.

Not long after, the imperial physician that Xu Qing had gone to get arrived.

The imperial physician entered the room to treat Qin Jiang's injuries and brought out a few pots of blood.

Qin Yanran's heart clenched into a ball.

When the door finally opened, Qin Yanran went forward and asked, “Imperial physician, how are my father's injuries?”

The imperial physician looked at her with a complicated expression and shook his head helplessly. “Lord Qin's right leg was pierced by an arrow. I've already taken the arrow out for him, but…

“But what?” Qin Yanran asked anxiously.

The imperial physician sighed. “But Lord Qin's injuries are too serious. Even if his wounds heal, I'm afraid it'll be difficult for him to recover.”

Qin Yanran's eyes trembled, “This means…”

The imperial physician said truthfully, “Lord Qin's right leg might be crippled. In the future, he will have to rely on crutches to walk.”

In short, he would be a cripple in the future.

Qin Yanran felt as if she had been hit in the head. Her body swayed and she almost fell down the stairs.

Fortunately, Xu Qing quickly pulled her back.

His large palm grabbed her cold arm. Xu Qing paused and hurriedly pulled his hand back.

Qin Yanran was suffering from a huge blow and lost all sense of her surroundings. She only looked at the imperial physician pleadingly and almost broke down as she said, “Imperial physician… are you joking? How can my father's leg be crippled? He only suffered an arrow wound… My father is a martial artist… He has suffered many injuries in the past… Once… I remember that he went hunting with my grandfather once… He fell from the back of a horse… His entire arm had such a long cut…”

As she spoke, she stretched out her fingers to gesture.

“There was a lot of blood… but he recovered… My father will be fine… right?”

The imperial physician sighed. “I'm sorry, I tried my best.”

With that, he carried his first aid kit and left helplessly.

Qin Yanran's tears fell.

His brother's fate was unknown. His father had just lost his military power, and now he was about to lose a leg…

“How did this happen… How did this happen?”

She held onto the pillar beside her, covered her face, and broke down into tears.

Xu Qing looked at her.

After a long time, he handed over a clean handkerchief.

Qin Yanran caught a glimpse of the handkerchief from the corner of her eye
and raised her head in a daze. After a while, she took the handkerchief in her hand distraughtly.

Just as she was about to wipe her tears, she suddenly heard Xu Qing say indifferently, “If I were you, I would quickly move out of the Protectorate.”

Qin Yanran's eyes were filled with tears as she looked at him in confusion. “Why?”

Xu Qing said, “It's better to move out yourself than to get chased out.”

Qin Yanran frowned. “Who wants to chase us out?”

Xu Qing said indifferently, “What do you think, Miss?”

Qin Yanran was stunned.

After a while, she clenched her fists. “Do they really want to be so ruthless? We've already returned the identity they wanted… They've also taken away their military power… What's there to be dissatisfied about?” Xu Qing did not answer.

Qin Yanran sobbed, “I'm going to look for Grandfather!”

Xu Qing reminded him, “Miss's grandfather is Qin Feng, who has passed away.

Qin Canglan is your uncle.”

Qin Yanran's heart suffered another heavy blow.

It turned out that a person's kindness could really be like an addictive poison.

Qin Canglan's care and love for her made her unable to accept that everything had turned into bubbles.

Every day, she prayed that she had only had a nightmare. When she woke up, she would still be the daughter of the Protector Duke and the treasure in Qin Canglan's hands.

“What did I do wrong again? Why doesn't he want me?”

Qin Yanran couldn't let go of her heart. She felt extremely wronged. Xu Qing hit the nail on the head and said, “From the beginning to the end, he only loved Su Huayin's bloodline.”

Qin Yanran's heart was torn apart. She tasted the pain of death.

She sobbed and said, “I'll go look for the Third Prince…”

Xu Qing stopped her. “Can't you tell? The Third Prince only has that fat girl in his heart. ”

Qin Yanran suddenly raised her voice and glared at him coldly. “You're talking nonsense!”

Xu Qing's expression did not change at all. “The Third Prince has known that fat girl since Qingzhou. She cured the Third Prince's evil illness. The Third Prince is grateful to her for saving his life and gradually fell in love with her..”

Chapter 386

Qin Yanran shook her head and said in agitation, “Impossible! You're lying! You're lying!'

Xu Qing said unhurriedly, “Master also knows, but he just doesn't want Miss to be sad, so he has always kept his mouth shut about Miss.”

Qin Yanran bit her lip and said, “I don't believe it…'

Xu Qing said, “Miss, if you don't believe me, you can go to the Third Prince to verify it.”

Qin Yanran laughed mockingly. “How do I verify it? Ask him if he has another woman in his heart?”

Xu Qing said indifferently, “If Miss asks this, the Third Prince will naturally not answer. However, Miss can tell the Third Prince a secret.”

Qin Yanran paused. “What secret?”

Xu Qing said, “That girl… was married to Wei Ting in the countryside. Su Cheng colluded with the Wei family and had ulterior motives. Ask the Third Prince to quickly report this matter to His Majesty in case something bad happens!”

After Xiao Zhonghua left the Protectorate , he immediately came to visit Jing Yi.

Jing Yi's fever had subsided, and the infection of his wound had been effectively controlled. However, he still needed to recuperate and could not get out of bed for the time being.

After checking on Jing Yi, Xiao Zhonghua left the Jing family.

Just as he was about to get into the carriage, Qin Yanran walked out from the carriage opposite his.

She was wearing a cloak and a hat that covered her figure and appearance.

.....

“Your Highness!”

She called out to Xiao Zhonghua.

Xiao Zhonghua stopped in his tracks and turned to look at her. He said in surprise, “Miss Qin?”

He looked behind her and looked around warily. He asked in a normal tone, “It's so late. Is Miss Qin here to look for me?”

Qin Yanran replied, “Yes, I have very urgent news to report to the Third Prince.” “Please speak,” Xiao Zhonghua said.

They were standing about ten steps away from the gate of Family Jing. It was neither far nor close.

She swept her gaze across the guards guarding the door and then looked at the coachman beside her. She said in a low voice, “I just heard about it. Su Daya…

actually, she had already privately agreed to marry the youngest son of the Wei family in the countryside.”

A cold light flashed in Xiao Zhonghua's eyes.

Qin Yanran said sincerely, “I know, I shouldn't have said this at this juncture. It makes it seem like I'm deliberately obstructing the Third Prince's marriage with Su Daya… But I swear to God, I'm definitely not doing this for my own selfish desires. I really, really just learned the news… I…”

“Miss Qin.” Xiao Zhonghua interrupted her. His tone was as gentle as ever. “I don't know where you heard the news, but I can tell you clearly that Miss Su and Wei Ting are not friends.”

Qin Yanran opened her mouth, “Your Highness…”

Xiao Zhonghua said seriously, “Wei Ting has been cultivating at the Dragon Temple for the past year. There are monks in the temple as witnesses. He has never been to Qingzhou, let alone seen Miss Su. Miss Su was my physician. I can testify to this!”

Qin Yanran returned to the carriage in a daze.

The carriage drove into a secluded alley.

Xu Qing slowly walked out from the shadows.

He came to the car window. “The Third Prince didn't believe Miss's words, right?”

Qin Yanran pushed open the small window and said, “Xu Qing, were you lying, or was the Third Prince covering for her?”

Xu Qing said, “I might be able to lie, but Old Master won't. When Old Master wakes up, Miss can personally verify it with him.”

Qin Yanran smiled bitterly, “Why would the Third Prince protect her and Wei

Ting?”

Xu Qing said sarcastically, “The Third Prince isn't protecting Wei Ting, he's just protecting her. Although this is a good opportunity to pull the Wei family down, in order to protect his sweetheart, the Third Prince is really willing to pay any price.”

She had lost her grandfather who doted on her and the identity she was proud or. NOW, even ner nance was leavmg ner.

“I can't accept this… I can't accept this!”

Su Xiaoxiao, Su Cheng, and the others returned to the medical center. Qin Canglan was also there.

The Old Marquis and Su Qi left the capital to pick up Su MO and Fifth Brother.

The three little ones had already left school. Xiao Weizi brought them to the medical center.

The three of them stood at the door in unison and looked at the carriages coming and going. Their cute appearances overwhelmed the passersby.

Finally, Qin Canglan rode his horse and escorted a carriage over.

Seeing Qin Canglan, the three little ones knew that Su Xiaoxiao and Su Cheng had also returned.

“Big great-grandfather!”

The three little ones panted as they ran over.

The carriage stopped.

The three of them climbed up eagerly.

The coachman didn't know whether to laugh or cry. “Young masters, let me get a stool first.”

“Xiaohu can climb up!”

Xiaohu climbed ineffectively for a long time.

Su Cheng lifted the curtain and came out, scooping the little guy onto the carriage.

“Grandpa! Grandpa!”

Dahu and Erhu also wanted it. Su Cheng also pulled them up.

“Mother!”

The three of them entered the carriage and sat down next to Su Xiaoxiao.

Xiaohu didn't sit next to her; he just climbed onto Su Xiaoxiao's lap.

That was nice.

He closed his eyes in enjoyment. His mother's arms were so comfortable!

Dahu and Erhu gave knowing glances to each other. They were going to beat Xiaohu up.

Su Xiaoxiao smiled and patted their heads.

The three of them sat for a while, swinging their legs, and got off the carriage in satisfaction.

Physician Fu was changing the patient's dressing in the ward. Shopkeeper Sun had gone out to run some business. Little Wei Zi and Du Juan were busy getting medicine for the patients in the hall. Ying'er was running errands upstairs and downstairs.

Everyone was busy with their routines.

The group went to Su Xiaoxiao's courtyard.

Su Ergou's IV drip was almost finished. Ying'er came over at the right time to see if she should change Su Ergou's dressing.

“Boss?”

Ying'er looked at Su Xiaoxiao in surprise. “You're back?”

Su Xiaoxiao nodded slightly. “Go ahead. I'll change the dressing later.”

“Yes, Boss.” Ying'er went out.

She brought over a pot of hot tea and a plate of cut fruits before going to work.

Su Ergou fell asleep on the bed.

Qin Canglan and Su Cheng brought the three little ones into the house to see him. They did not disturb him and tiptoed out again.

As soon as they left, Su Ergou opened his eyes..

Chapter 387

Su Xiaoxiao looked at him in anger and amusement. “Were you pretending to be asleep?”

“Hehe.” Su Ergou chuckled.

Dahu, Ergu, and Xiaohu tormented Ling Yun in school. After school, they tormented Su Ergou. After Su Ergou's face was covered in countless healing saliva, he finally learned to close his eyes and pretend to be dead.

“Sister! Did Father win?” Ergou asked impatiently.

Su Xiaoxiao sighed. Su Ergou's heart tightened. “Don't tell me he lost?”

Su Xiaoxiao didn't speak.

Su Ergou was extremely sad. He had won yesterday, but he had lost today—

It was not that he cared about the royal power and wealth, but he was a little unwilling to let the bad guys win.

He clenched his fists. “It's alright, Sister. It's alright even if we lose. At most, I'll sell more pancakes in the future and be able to support you and Father. When I grow up, I'll go and fight with him! I'll take back our things!” Su Xiaoxiao looked at Su Ergou and couldn't help but laugh.

“Silly brother, Dad won.”

It was a beautiful win.

Their father had taken back what belonged to him.

At night, the family sat in the central room and ate.

.....

Chef Cao had also heard the good news and specially cooked a large table of good dishes.

The family sat down to eat.

Chef Cao's best dish was the Big Bone Sauce. The three little ones and Su Ergou liked it very much. Su Xiaoxiao wanted to lose weight and didn't eat it.

“Come, Dahu's, Erhu's, Xiaohu's.”

Su Cheng picked a piece that was easy to chew for each of the three little ones and placed a big piece in Su Ergou's bowl.

“Father, you eat too.”

As soon as Su Ergou finished speaking, he saw Qin Canglan coming out of the kitchen with a bowl.

There was a very beautiful bone in the bowl.

Qin Canglan placed the bone in front of Su Cheng.

Su Cheng looked at him in confusion.

Qin Canglan coughed lightly and said, “You dote on your son, so do I.”

Bully Su, who had been shameless for ten thousand years, suddenly felt a little embarrassed.

Qin Canglan sat down beside Su Cheng. As he put food into Su Cheng's bowl, he whispered, “I even hid three big pieces.”

Su Cheng was speechless.

Qin Canglan really wanted Su Cheng to call him father.

However, Su Cheng had not called him father for thirty years. He could not bring himself to do it now.

Su Cheng felt awkward.

Qin Canglan was not awkward. Not only did he put food in Su Cheng's bowl, but he also peeled prawns and oranges for Su Cheng. After dinner, he even pulled him onto the horse's back and brought him out to shop.

Su Ergou's injuries were no longer serious. He could recuperate at home.

Su Xiaoxiao brought him and the three little ones back to Pear Blossom Alley.

After she bathed the three little ones, they somersaulted on the bed and fell asleep.

Just as she was about to rest, her vision blurred and she entered the pharmacy.

Indeed, the reward for March had yet to be given.

Based on past experience, the pharmacy's late delivery meant compensation. Moreover, she had treated so many patients during this period of time. These were also rewards.

Su Xiaoxiao opened her eyes in anticipation.

As expected, the tables in the lounge were already filled.

Alright, it was a little exaggerated to say that it was filled up, but it was indeed more than ever.

There was a bottle of San Wu's small yellow pills, a bottle of multivitamins, and a bottle of collagen peptide. These were just used up. The supplies came at the right time.

There was also a box of bone strengthening granules.

She had given him bone-strengthening pills previously but her father had yet to finish them. Moreover, his hand had completely recovered now, so there was no need for another box.

However, the bone-strengthening pills in the base's pharmacy were good stuff. Since the pharmacy had given it to her, she naturally wouldn't refuse.

Finally…

“Eh? What is this?”

Su Xiaoxiao picked up the palm-sized medicine bottle on the table.

It looked a medicine bottle, but it could not be opened. It was said to be something else, and it emitted the smell of mint and medicine.

“Forget it, I'll accept it first.”

Su Xiaoxiao put the things into the first aid kit and went to the various medicine areas to replenish prescription drugs such as anti-inflammatory drugs and anesthetics.

She had just come out of the pharmacy when Wei Ting came over.

Before she could pack the medicine, Wei Ting looked at the table full of strange medicine and suspected that his eyes were playing tricks on him.

“There was… nothing here just now.”

Wei Ting pointed at the table.

“Just now.” Su Xiaoxiao said without changing her expression.

“Really?” Wei Ting expressed his doubts.

“Yeah!” Su Xiaoxiao didn't allow him to doubt her. “What are you doing here so late at night?” Su Xiaoxiao changed the topic in time.

Wei Ting said lightly, “Just passing by.”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Oh, I thought you were here to see me.” Wei Ting said coldly, “Ha, you're thinking too much..”

Chapter 388

Su Xiaoxiao raised her eyebrows and said, “Why didn't you come earlier or later? Why did you have to wait for Dahu and the others to fall asleep before coming over? Did I really think too much? Lord Wei?”

Wei Ting snorted coldly. “I was delayed by something.”

Su Xiaoxiao crossed her arms. “Forget it. Since you've put in a lot of effort, I won't take off your cold front. Let me see your injuries.”

Wei Ting extended his right hand.

Su Xiaoxiao opened the gauze.

The wound showed no signs of inflammation, but the addition of a hideous wound on this originally jade-like hand was not something to be happy about.

“Does it hurt?” She asked. “It doesn't hurt.”

He said.

Su Xiaoxiao brought the medicine over and disinfected it with iodine before applying antibacterial ointment.

“I won't let you keep this scar.”

“Doesn't matter.”

Wei Ting did not care.

.....

As a man, if there was a scar, so be it. In his opinion, it was really nothing.

Su Xiaoxiao thought of the small medicine bottle and an idea came to her.

When Wei Ting saw her cunning look, he narrowed his eyes dangerously. “You want to test the medicine on me again!”

Su Xiaoxiao blinked. “No, no, definitely not.”

She silently put the small medicine bottle back.

After bandaging Wei Ting, Su Xiaoxiao took the medicine on the table.

Wei Ting came at the right time. She had something to ask him.

During this period of time, She was busy with the competition and put aside the grudge between Qin Canglan and Lord Wu An.

Now that the matter of military power had come to an end, it was time to resolve the doubts in her heart.

“…You're saying that Qin Canglan didn't send reinforcements because he thought that my grandfather was colluding with Northern Yan?” Wei Ting looked at Su Xiaoxiao in confusion.

Su Xiaoxiao nodded.

Wei Ting said, “This isn't the first time I've heard this.”

“Huh?” This time, Su Xiaoxiao was full of doubts.

Wei Ting said, “After my grandfather's accident, my grandmother personally questioned Qin Canglan in front of Emperor Jing Xuan why he didn't send troops. Qin Canglan said that the Wei family colluded with Northern Yan and even wanted him to send troops to reinforce them. He insisted the Wei family was trying to make him walk into a trap.”

Su Xiaoxiao was surprised. “Was there such a thing?”

Wei Ting continued, “But Qin Canglan couldn't produce any evidence of my grandfather's betrayal.'

Su Xiaoxiao roughly understood. “So, the Wei family thinks that Qin Canglan deliberately didn't send troops and even accused the Wei family of treason?”

Wei Ting nodded. “That's right.”

Su Xiaoxiao scratched her head. “This grudge… is really big. In the past, your two families… didn't suspect that someone was behind it?”

Wei Ting muttered, “The two families are mortal enemies. Who would believe that their mortal enemies are innocent?”

Su Xiaoxiao nodded thoughtfully. “That's true.”

The Wei family and the Qin family were loyal to different camps. This was not wrong, but in the process of serving their respective lords, they had done too many harmful things to each other and formed too many irreconcilable grudges.

How could it be written off just by saying that it was their own business?

But now, he had become the son-in-law of the Su family and she had become the mother of the three Wei children. There was an inseparable bond between them.

Thinking about it this way, fate was really magical.

“You should thank my father for capturing you.”

“You finally admit it?”

“I didn't. You misheard me.”

“Hell!”

Wei Ting did not need an injection today. He just needed to take medicine.

Su Xiaoxiao gave him anti-inflammatory medicine and divided it in a porcelain bottle. She told him how to use it and how much to use it. “One pill at a time in the morning and two at a time after dinner.”

Wei Ting put away the medicine bottle and prepared to leave.

He looked at Su Xiaoxiao, who was sitting at the head of the bed and repairing the slingshot for the three little ones. His eyes moved and he said, “About what

I promised you last time…'

“What?” Su Xiaoxiao looked at him in confusion.

“Close your eyes.”

“Yes?”

Seeing that a certain someone had dropped the ball at the critical moment, Wei Ting simply pounced on her. He raised his uninjured left hand and gently covered her eyes.

Immediately after, Su Xiaoxiao felt a warm breath approach her. It was soft and carried a hint of late spring warmth as it quickly touched the corner of her lips..

It was really just once.

Before Su Xiaoxiao could taste it, Wei Ting had already stood up.

Su Xiaoxiao touched her lips in disbelief.

Is this… what they meant by Zhu Bajie eating a ginseng fruit?

It felt like they had kissed, but it also felt like they had not kissed. It was gone before she could react?

“I can only give you this for now,” Wei Ting said seriously. “As for the rest… just imagine it.”

Su Xiaoxiao was thinking, “As someone with a husband, I have to imagine it for myself.”

What was this?

Painting pancakes to satiate hunger?

Speaking of which, were the ancients so conservative?

Then how long would it take to get to third base?

Su Xiaoxiao looked at a certain someone in shock. “Wei Ting… based on your progress… Don't tell me you're going to wait until you're in your seventies or eighties before doing that with me? Don't you mind that my beauty is past its prime?”

Wei Ting paused and said, “No.”

Su Xiaoxiao's eyes lit up. “You won't wait that long?”

Wei Ting said, “I won't despise you.”

Su Xiaoxiao was dumbfounded.

Su Xiaoxiao decisively chased a certain scumbag out.

There were so many handsome men in the world. Why should she hang around this one?

Life is too short, enjoy it in time!

Su Xiaoxiao angrily moved her pillow and was about to sleep when she unexpectedly found an envelope under her pillow.

When she opened it, there was a stack of heavy banknotes, a total of five thousand taels.

There was a note attached to the banknote—Family expenses.

“This guy… when did he place it there?”

When he kissed her?

“Don't think that money is enough. I'm still not very happy.”

Su Xiaoxiao accepted the banknotes and crawled into the blanket.

up a little bean and gave it a fierce hug.

Xiaohu woke up and asked with his messy hair, “Mother, are you

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Nothing.”

Xiaohu tilted his head..

Chapter 389

The night market in the capital was much livelier than in town. Su Cheng had been locked up in the horse ranch to practice martial arts these days and the number of times he went out could only be counted on one hand. Therefore, he was still curious about the night scenery in the capital.

Although he had regained some of his childhood memories, 30 years had passed. Things had changed.

There were people coming and going on the streets, and it was inconvenient to ride a horse. The two of them led the horse slowly forward.

Qin Canglan walked ahead. His son was already old, but he still subconsciously wanted to protect him as a child.

As he walked, he introduced to Su Cheng, “Do you still remember this shop? It used to sell sugar water. When you were young, you had to come over every day to drink a bowl. Later on, your teeth hurt, and your mother didn't allow you to come over anymore. You still secretly asked me to bring you over.”

At the mention of Su Huayin, his heart inevitably ached, but he was willing to reminisce.

Su Cheng looked at the cloth shop and had no impression of it.

The two of them continued walking.

“There's a martial arts school over there. When you first passed by, you even rushed in and fought with someone.”

“Huh?”

Was he so impressive and awesome when he was young?

Su Cheng asked in a daze, “Then did I win?”

Qin Canglan smiled and said, “Of course.”

“You're the legitimate son of the Qin family. Who would dare to beat you up?

Qin Canglan could not even bear to lay a finger on his son.

However, it was this prodigy who had been born with a golden spoon that actually suffered greatly among the commoners.

Qin Canglan could bear the pain to reminisce about Su Huayin, but he did not dare to imagine how much bullying and beating Su Cheng had suffered all those years.

His beloved son…

“I have an impression of this shop.” Su Cheng stood in front of the old noodle shop. “It has good bean juice.”

This was the first noodle shop the family had eaten at since arriving in the capital.

Su Xiaoxiao and Su Ergou were not used to the taste of bean juice. Before Su Cheng recovered his memory, he already felt that it was very delicious and had a nostalgic taste.

Qin Canglan hurriedly said, “You must be hungry after shopping for so long. Go in and eat supper!”

had a big appetite, and Qin Canglan was not inferior. The entire family was made up of people who worked hard.

“Sure,” Su Cheng said.

He remembered that his daughter liked to eat this restaurant's braised meat very much. He would bring two servings back for her later.

“Give me the horse,” Qin Canglan said.

Such a small shop did not have a horse shed or a servant who led the horse. He had to find a place to lead the horse to.

There was a good tavern nearby. With some money, he could find someone to watch the horses.

Qin Canglan led the two horses to the tavern.

Su Cheng found a table near the street and sat down. He asked for two bowls of braised noodles, two bowls of bean juice, and two catties of braised meat.

As soon as the waiter left, he saw a familiar figure across the street.

It was a woman in a cloak. She was walking in a hurry. The night wind lifted the hood of the cloak slightly, revealing half of her face.

“Eh? Isn't that my daughter's patient? Last time, my daughter even brought her home…'

It was just a doctor-patient relationship. Although Su Cheng recognized her, he had no intention of going forward to greet her.

However, she quickly discovered something else.

She was being followed!

A medium-sized man followed behind her. Su Cheng was a martial artist. At a glance, he knew that the other party was an expert.

He followed her sneakily and sized her up from time to time.

No matter what, she was his daughter's patient. Su Cheng could not sit back and do nothing.

He followed decisively.

When the man followed the woman into the alley, Su Cheng jumped down from the roof and knocked him out!

Bai Xihe heard the commotion behind him and subconsciously turned around.

Su Cheng hurriedly raised his hand and said to her, “Madam Bai, you're being followed, but don't worry, I've already dealt with him!”

Bai Xihe looked at Su Cheng and then at the guards protecting her in the dark. She was speechless.

At this moment, another guard quietly came over.

He did not know Su Cheng. Seeing that Su Cheng had knocked out his companion and thought that Su Cheng was up to no good with Bai Xihe, he secretly drew his sword and slashed at Su Cheng.

Bai Xihe was about to stop him.

looked at the shadow on the ground and turned around. “I'll hit!” The second guard was also stunned.

Su Cheng threw away the stick and dusted his hands. “Alright, you're safe!”

Bai Xihe was speechless. “Cheng'er, Cheng'er!”

Qin Canglan came over.

When Bai Xihe heard Qin Canglan's voice, she hurriedly pulled down the hood of her cloak and lowered her head to hide behind Su Cheng..

Chapter 390

“What's going on?” Qin Canglan looked at the two unfamiliar men on the ground and asked Su Cheng, “Is someone looking for trouble with you?”

“They're not looking for trouble with me. They're looking for this…” Su Cheng turned his head and realized that Bai Xihe, who was originally standing beside him, had moved behind him.

He didn't think too much about it.

She thought that she did not know Qin Canglan and was a little afraid.

Su Cheng said, “They followed her. She's Daya's patient.”

Qin Canglan might be wary of unfamiliar men, but it was fine if a weak woman hid. With his fierce appearance, there were indeed very few weak women who did not hide from him.

Moreover, the other party was Daya's patient, so Qin Canglan did not suspect anything.

“Madam,” he said, “where are you going? Let's send you back, or I'll report to the officials. Go to the noodle shop opposite and sit. I'll get the officials to send you back later.”

How could Bai Xi meet an official?

However, she did not dare to speak, afraid that Qin Canglan would recognize her voice.

Su Cheng said, “Don't be afraid. He's not a bad person. He's…”

Qin Canglan's eyes flickered, looking forward to hearing the words “my father”. He heard Su Cheng say, “The head of the Qin family, the old Protector Duke, he won't hurt you.”

Bai Xihe remained silent.

.....

Su Cheng thought that she was frightened. After thinking for a moment, he asked, “It's so late… Did you come to Scholar Street… to look for Daya for a consultation?”

Bai Xihe's eyes flashed as she nodded.

“Then why don't I send you back first?” Su Cheng scratched his head. “Aiya, I want noodles and braised meat…

Qin Canglan said, “I'll go get the food. It's more important for her to see a physician. Go find Daya first.”

Bai Xihe nodded again in tacit agreement.

Qin Canglan went to the noodle shop and found the waiter to report to the officials. He sat in the lobby and waited for noodles, bean juice, and braised meat.

Su Cheng sent Bai Xihe back to Pear Blossom Lane.

Seeing the Empress Dowager appear at home again, Su Xiaoxiao was stunned.

Why did her dear dad pick up a big boss again?

Bai Xihe was in a hurry to return to the palace, but with Su Cheng's interruption, the palace door had already closed. She could not go back tonight.

Su Xiaoxiao had been studying in the palace for so long, so she naturally knew when the palace door was closed.

However, she didn't know if Bai Xihe had other plans.

“Do you need me to send you somewhere else today?” Su Xiaoxiao asked.

Bai Xihe shook her head slightly.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Then… stay at my house?”

Bai Xi looked at Su Xiaoxiao innocently.

Su Xiaoxiao wondered if it was an illusion. Why did she feel that the Empress Dowager was like a pitiful little girl with nowhere to go?

Bai Xihe stayed in Pear Blossom Lane.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “My father and Ergou live in the front row. Only Dahu, I, and the others are in the second courtyard.”

Originally, there was Wei Ting, but that guy had just left and it was impossible for him to come over tonight.

Su Xiaoxiao carried the sleeping three little ones to Wei Ting's room. She and the three little ones slept in this room, and Bai Xihe slept in her room.

The bedding had just been changed today, but considering her personal habits, she still changed it clean again and took out a new pillow.

“Leave a lamp,” Bai Xihe said softly.

“Are you afraid of the dark?” Su Xiaoxiao asked.

Bai Xihe said nothing.

Su Xiaoxiao stopped asking. “Alright, I'll bring you a new one. You can't adjust the wick of this one. The oil will be gone after burning it for a while.”

After Su Xiaoxiao brought the new oil lamp over, she carried the old oil lamp next door.

Bai Xihe lay on the soft bed and smelled the clean soap fragrance from the bedding and the faint milk fragrance in the room. Her mood gradually calmed down.

There were not many words, no curious inquiries, or overly friendly reception.

Everything was just right.

It made Bai Xihe forget her identity for a short time.

She fell asleep peacefully like an ordinary person.

She didn't dream the entire night.

The next morning, Bai Xihe woke up to a childish sound.

“Sihu, you can't be picky.” “Sihu isn't picky about food.”

“It's picky. It doesn't even eat.” “It's not a puppy. Of course it doesn't bite bones!”

“But I want it to gnaw on bones.”

It was Xiaohu and Erhu.

The Sihu the two of them were referring to was the foal which was already three and a half months old .

Xiaohu gave it a name, Sihu.

Xiaohu was feeding Sihu the bone. Sihu was a horse who was not picky with food, but he did not know how to chew on bones.

Xiaohu said, “I'll teach you.”

Bai Xihe was dressed neatly. When she pushed open the door and came to the small courtyard, Xiaohu was holding a big bone and demonstrating to the foal how to chew the bone seriously.

Erhu went to the side to play with his little stone. Dahu was adopting a horse stance under the tree.

It was taught by Qin Canglan.

Qin Canglan said that as long as he persisted in the horse stance for three months, he would officially teach him martial arts.

Seeing the three cute children early in the morning, her mood was quite cured.

Su Xiaoxiao was making breakfast in the kitchen. Smoke rose from the chimney. Bai Xihe felt that this was like the smoke of the market and suddenly felt that time was peaceful.

Su Cheng and Qin Jiang's competition was originally scheduled to last for three days, and the Palace Academy was also on vacation for three days.

Unexpectedly, Emperor Jing Xuan accelerated the process and finished the competition in two days.

Hence, she decided to visit Su Xiaoxiao at Su Cheng's invitation.

Ordinary people did not dare to invite the princess to their house, and the princess would not accept the invitations of ordinary people.

Between the two of them, one dared to invite and the other dared to come.

It was Su Cheng who opened the courtyard door. He warmly welcomed Princess Jingning in.

“Daya! Your classmate is here!”

To Su Cheng, Princess Jingning's identity was her fat daughter's classmate.

When Bai Xihe in the backyard heard this, she was not flustered.

After all, there were so many daughters of the Palace Academy and not many had seen her true appearance. She was really not worried about being recognized.

Then, she saw Princess Jingning.

Princess Jingning also saw her.

Their eyes met.

A bolt of lightning sounded above their heads at the same time!

Chapter 391

Even in her dreams, Bai Xihe did not expect that the classmate Su Cheng mentioned was Princess Jingning.

After all, who would refer to a princess like that?

Princess Jinging never expected to see the Grand Empress Dowager here.

After all, which dynasty's Empress Dowager would leave the palace privately? She even appeared at her classmate's house!

She was really not mentally prepared at all!

“Aunt Bai, why aren't you combing?”

In order to play with the beautiful aunt, Erhu actually pulled out the bun Su Cheng had tied for him and asked Bai Xihe to tie it again. Princess Jingning's delicate body trembled. Aunt Bai?

“Fairy Sister!”

After doing the horse stance, Dahu recognized Princess Jingning and ran toward her.

Bai Xihe was also shocked. Fairy Sister?

The sky above the two of them was no longer a bolt from the blue. It was filled with rumbling thunder, and lightning.

Su Xiaoxiao walked over with a spatula and looked at the dumbfounded Princess Jingning, then at the frozen Grand Empress Dowager. She thought to herself that it was over.

.....

This was the scene of a large-scale demolition.

However… what was with Dahu calling Princess Jingning a Fairy Sister?

Fifteen minutes later, the three of them sat in the study of the second courtyard.

Before entering, Su Xiaoxiao had already successfully learned from the three little ones that they had scammed Qin Yun and the others.

Su Xiaoxiao solemnly thanked Princess Jingning for upholding justice.

Princess Jingning's heart could be said to be in turmoil again and again. The three children were actually adopted sons of the little girl's family. This was really—

Indeed, compared to tne appearance ot tne Grand Empress Dowager at someone's house, her chance encounter with the three little children was not too surprising.

“Grand Empress Dowager, why did you leave the palace incognito?”

There were some things that Su Xiaoxiao didn't ask, but that didn't mean that Princess Jingning wouldn't ask either.

This concerned the royal family, so she had to understand it clearly.

“I… will leave for a while?” Su Xiaoxiao said.

“No need,” Bai Xihe said.

She returned to her cold demeanor in the palace and said calmly, “My brother secretly returned to the capital. I left the palace to see him, but it was too late and I couldn't go back.”

Su Xiaoxiao didn't know much about Bai Xihe. She hadn't heard that she had a younger brother. She only knew that her family had fallen. Her parents had passed away early and had joined her distant relative, the Guo family.

It was Princess Lingxi's house.

Princess Jingning continued, “May I ask why you're here?”

Bai Xihe said, “I sprained my ankle and happened to bump into Physician Su.”

Su Xiaoxiao had met Bai Xihe twice in the palace. The first time was in the garden when Su Xiaoxiao killed the poisonous snake that ambushed Bai Xihe.

The second time was near the Bright Moon Pavilion. Bai Xihe dealt with Lin Ruyue, who had an argument with Su Xiaoxiao.

Princess Jing Ning looked at Su Xiaoxiao. “Is that so?”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “It's indeed like this.”

Bai Xihe relaxed slightly.

“I'll send you back to the palace,” Princess Jingning said.

Bai Xihe nodded slowly.

In the courtyard, Erhu asked, “Aunt Bai, Sister Fairy, are you leaving?”

The three little ones only expressed their reluctance.

She had clearly just arrived and had not played for long.

Bai Xihe stretched out her hand, wanting to pat Erhu's head. Just as she reached into the air, she saw Princess Jingning's gaze from the corner of her eye and calmly retracted her hand. Erhu asked, “Aunt Bai?”

Bai Xihe left.

Xiaohu and Dahu were also at a loss. They didn't understand why Aunt Bai, who had been playing with them just now, suddenly became so strange.

Princess Jingning said to the three of them, “Dahu, Erhu, Xiaohu, I'll visit you another day.”

The three little ones looked at her reluctantly.

Princess Jingning bent down and touched the three little heads one by one. “I'll invite you to my house another day, okay?”

The three little ones nodded cutely. “Okay!”

Xiaohu stretched out his little finger. “Pinky promise!”

Princess Jingning smiled and made a pinky promise with him, Dahu, and Erhu.

The two of them arrived at Princess Jingning's carriage. Princess Jing Ning gestured. “Please.”

Bai Xihe got into the carriage with a cold expression.

Princess Jingning also sat up

Princess Jingning's carriage did not need to be checked. It went straight into the palace.

About half an hour later, her carriage came out again and slowly turned into East Street before stopping beside another carriage.

“Come on up.”

She pushed open the carriage window and said.

In that carriage, Su Xiaoxiao got out and smiled at her before getting into her carriage.

“I knew you would follow me,” Princess Jingning said calmly.

Su Xiaoxiao handed her a box of steaming snacks. “You didn't eat much at my house just now. I specially made it for you.”

Hearing that it was specially made for her, Princess Jingning's ugly expression finally improved.

She took the snack, took a piece, and tasted it gently.

It was a pancake filled with taro mashed with potatoes. It was crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. The texture was thick and sweet, but not greasy. It was a taste that Princess Jingning liked.

“You seem to be very concerned about the Grand Empress Dowager.” Princess Jingning suddenly spoke.

“Ah, no,” Su Xiaoxiao said. “I came because I was worried about you. I was afraid that this matter would implicate you.”

Her expression was sincere.

Princess Jingning enjoyed it. She put down her snacks and said to her, “It's not like I brought the Grand Empress Dowager out of the palace. It won't implicate me.”

“That's good.” Su Xiaoxiao didn't ask further.

Princess Jingning said, “Don't worry. I didn't let anyone find out that she left the palace incognito. I'll keep her secret.”

It was not for the Grand Empress Dowager, but because she did not want to implicate this little girl.

Su Cheng had just won the competition and obtained military power. He was already at the center of the storm. At this moment, he might give others something to use against him for colluding with the Grand Empress Dowager. Who knew what trouble it would cause?

It was impossible for Su Xiaoxiao not to feel Princess Jingning's kindness.

She had given 30% of her regard to her, but she had paid 100% in return.

She was ashamed.

Su Xiaoxiao continued, “There's something I'm curious about.”

Princess Jingning said, “You mean the younger brother of the Grand Empress

Dowager.”

“Yes.” Su Xiaoxiao nodded.

“There's nothing I can't tell you,” Princess Jingning said. “The Grand Empress Dowager has a younger brother. After her parents passed away, her younger brother was adopted and she had nowhere to go. The rumors outside say that she came to the capital to seek refuge with the Guo family, but that's not the case. She's not distantly related to the Guo family. Otherwise, there's no reason for the Guo family to only take her in and not her younger brother.”

Su Xiaoxiao listened attentively.

Princess Jingning continued, “Back then, Prime Minister Guo went to a place to investigate a tax silver case and met the Grand Empress Dowager who sold herself to bury her father. Minister Guo bought her back. He originally wanted her to be ordered around as a maidservant, but Bai Xihe became more and more outstanding and was calculated to have an extremely elite birth date. Therefore, the Guo family adopted her as a girl in their residence and announced to the public that she was a distant relative.”

“As for her brother… after he heard that his sister became the Grand Empress Dowager, the entire family rushed over to join her. The Guo family treated that family politely at first, but later on, they gradually realized that that family was causing trouble everywhere in the name of the Grand Empress Dowager. Her brother even snatched a commoner's daughter and killed someone. The Guo family ran around everywhere trying to resolve the issue. Although the death penalty is exempted, he couldn't escape punishment. Her brother was exiled. Returning to the capital without permission is a capital crime.”

Su Xiaoxiao was enlightened. “I see.”

From the looks of it, Bai Xihe had left the palace previously to see her brother.

The Guo family knew about this.

Princess Jingning reminded, “If you encounter such a thing again in the future, don't fight it alone, and you're not allowed to take her in again. She's a big problem!”

Su Xiaoxiao asked strangely, “There's a story?”

Realizing that she had misspoken, an awkward expression flashed across Princess Jingning's face.

However, if she did not explain the matter clearly, with this little girl's fearless personality, she would not realize the seriousness of the problem.

She hesitated for a long time before finally making up her mind and revealing the secrets of the royal family. “A beauty like Bai Xihe was born to marry into an emperor's family because only an emperor's family can protect such beauty. Unfortunately, even an emperor can't protect Bai Xihe's beauty.”

This story… was getting more and more exciting…

Princess Jingning asked with a solemn expression, “Do you know why King Nanyang rebelled back then?”

Su Xiaoxiao blinked. “Don't tell me it's for Bai Xihe?”

Princess Jing Ning said, “It was for her.”

Su Xiaoxiao muttered, “Wait, this gossip is a little big. Let me digest it.'

Assuming that Princess Jingning's information was accurate and that King Nanyang had indeed rebelled for Bai Xihe, what was Bai Xihe's attitude towards King Nanyang?

In terms of status, there was an insurmountable gap between the two of them.

If they really wanted to be together without hesitation, it would probably be even harder than usurping the throne.

Su Xiaoxiao thought of the happy pulse that Imperial Physician Fu had diagnosed in Zhaoyang Hall back then.

Whose pulse was it?

Was it the Grand Empress Dowager's?

If it was the Grand Empress Dowager's, who was the man who made her secretly get pregnant?

Su Xiaoxiao thought for a moment and said, “Princess, forgive me for asking, but does your father have feelings for the Grand Empress Dowager?”

Chapter 392

Princess Jingning said, “Why do you ask?”

Su Xiaoxiao blinked and said without changing her expression, “I'm curious.”

With Princess Jingning's status, she should be admonishing Su Xiaoxiao. Such a royal secret was not something a little girl like her could be curious about.

She swallowed the words.

Forget it. This girl was so bold. She had been spoiled by her.

Princess Jingning looked helplessly at a certain bold little girl and said, “In my father's heart, the imperial power is the most important. He won't touch anyone or anything that can threaten his throne.”

Su Xiaoxiao touched her chin. “Oh.”

Emperor Jing Xuan actually did not have any improper thoughts about Bai Xihe. She was not used to him suddenly not being melodramatic.

Princess Jingning glanced at her and said jealously, “You're very concerned about the Grand Empress Dowager.”

Su Xiaoxiao asked, “Am I?”

Princess Jing Ning said, “Yes.”

Which person who grew up in the palace did not have the ability to read someone from their body language?

.....

Oh, except for that idiot Hui An.

The way the little girl looked at the Grand Empress Dowager was different from how she looked at other strangers.

Princess Jing Ning's expression darkened. “Don't tell me you want her as your backer?”

She muttered, “Girl, am I unable to protect you? ”

Su Xiaoxiao said to herself, “Why do I feel like there's a fire in the backyard…”

Su Xiaoxiao hurriedly said, “No!”

Princess Jingning was not easy to fool. She was a smart woman, and he could not casually brush her off.

Su Xiaoxiao thought for a moment and decided to reveal something. “Princess, the Grand Empress Dowager looks like an old friend of mine.” Princess Jing Ning was curious. “Which old friend?”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “My mother.”

Her mother in her previous life.

Princess Jing Ning knew Su Xiaoxiao's background. Her mother had passed away when she was very young. She and her brother had been raised by Su Cheng.

Thinking of this, Princess Jing Ning couldn't bear to blame her.

“Your mother must be a great beauty,” Princess Jingning said.

Bai Xihe had an ethereal charm. Those who could look like her must be beautiful.

Su Xiaoxiao didn't deny this.

Because in her impression, Madam Li was indeed a great beauty.

The two of them sat in the carriage for a while. Princess Jingning apologized for rushing back to the palace on her first visit and said that she would definitely invite her and the three little ones to the palace as guests next time.

Su Xiaoxiao smiled and thought to herself that it was enough to invite her.

It was better for the three little ones not to enter the palace. It would be a different story if Princess Jingning's biological father, the emperor, bumped into them.

After bidding farewell to Princess Jingning, Su Xiaoxiao went to the medical center.

The officials and the students who were injured at the event location of the small attic accident a few days ago recovered one after another. Other than two seriously injured patients who were still receiving treatment, the others had all returned.

The patients in Benevolence Hall were unhappy.

“I say, what's wrong with your Benevolence Hall? Are your medical skills good enough? Others have already recovered, but why does our leg still hurt so much?”

“That's right. My colleague went home yesterday. I can't walk today. I clearly remember that he was more injured than me…”

“Could it be that you deliberately delayed treating us and want us to pay for a few more days of medicine?”

When Second Master Hu heard this, he was furious and called Shopkeeper Wu over. “What happened?”

Manager Wu said, “Don't they know how injured they are? The doctors of our Benevolence Hall are brilliant. When the government office sent the patients over, they gave us all those who were seriously injured and sent those with light injuries to Number One Hall. Of course, their patients recovered quickly!” Second Master Hu glared at him. “What about those two who were about to

He was referring to the two seriously injured patients still receiving treatment in the Number One Hall.

Manager Wu was embarrassed. “It's just the two of them. The others are all lightly injured. The two of them haven't recovered yet.”

Second Master Hu frowned and said, “Keep an eye on Number One Hall!”

Manager Wu looked troubled. “I can't… I can't.”

Ever since Manager Sun came next door, none of the spies they sent could successfully enter Number One Hall.

The other party's eyes were very vicious. He spotted them accurately!

“Second Uncle! Second Uncle, I want to eat sugar-fried chestnuts!”

A seven-year-old fatty rushed in.

The little fatty lay on the ground and rolled around. “I don't care, I don't care, I want it! I want to eat sugar-fried chestnuts!”

Shopkeeper Wu looked at Imperial Physician Hut s youngest son and suddenly had an idea. “Boss, I have it!”

Second Master Hu asked, “What's wrong?”

Manager Wu smiled sinisterly. “The way to sneak into the Number One Hall!”

Su Xiaoxiao went to see two seriously injured patients. The two of them had passed the critical period and their wounds had healed well. The fractures no longer hurt. In three days, they would be able to go home to recuperate.

“Ying'er, have you seen my master?”

“Organizing the herbs in the storeroom!”

Su Xiaoxiao went to the storeroom on the first floor.

It had rained a few days ago, so some herbs were not kept properly and were damp.

He was removing them one by one.

“Master,” Su Xiaoxiao greeted.

Physician Fu felt guilty for having her call him Master, but Su Xiaoxiao did not feel any psychological burden, so he could only bite the bullet and agree.

“It's not easy for you to rest for a day. Why are you at the medical center again? Didn't I tell you not to come?”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “I have something to ask you.”

Physician Fu said, “Tell me.”

Su Xiaoxiao asked, “When did your father diagnose the happy pulse of Zhaoyang Hall?”

Physician Fu did not expect her to ask this. His father had passed away many years ago, and he would not be as sad as before when he occasionally mentioned it.

He was just puzzled. She seemed to be paying attention to this matter.

Physician Fu recalled, “In the winter of the second year of Jing Xuan, His Majesty had just ascended the throne and his foundation was not stable. The palace was very busy, and so was the Imperial Hospital.” Su Xiaoxiao said, “That's… about fifteen years ago?”

Physician Fu said, “That's right.”

Su Xiaoxiao continued, “Was the Prince of Nanyang in the capital that year?” Physician Fu thought for a moment and said, “Yes. the Prince of Nanyang had yet to move to his fief at that time.”

Su Xiaoxiao sorted out the clues she had.

Su Xiaoxiao sorted out the clues she had.

In the winter of the second year of Jing Xuan, Zhaoyang Hall diagnosed a happy pulse.

The following spring, the Prince of Nanyang moved to his fief and began to plan a rebellion.

In the fifth year of Jing Xuan, the Prince of Nanyang failed to rebel and was exterminated by Emperor Jing Xuan in the name of the “plague”.

Su Xiaoxiao asked, “Have you heard of the rebellion of the Prince of Nanyang?”

Physician Fu pondered and said, “I've heard of it, but… His Majesty didn't post the imperial announcement to the world. I don't know if it's true.”

Su Xiaoxiao touched her chin.

Assuming that the person diagnosed with the happy pulse was Bai Xihe, the child in her stomach might belong to the Prince of Nanyang.

If so, the Prince of Nanyang was rebelling for her and the fetus in her stomach.

If not, there were two situations.

One was that the two of them were in love. Bai Xihe had been forced by another man. In view of the fact that Bai Xihe was in the harem, the only man who had a chance to force her was Emperor Jing Xuan.

In order to save her from trouble, the Prince of Nanyang raised his army and rebelled.

The other situation was that the Prince of Nanyang had um he found out that Bai Xihe was pregnant with Emperor Jing blood, King Nanyang could not calm the jealousy in his hea the emperor himself to snatch Bai Xihe.

However, Princess Jingning had already made it clear that only had the throne in his heart and did not have any other Xihe.

In short, it was impossible for Emperor Jing Xuan to touch

In that case, if Bai Xihe was pregnant, the child could only of Nanyang.

Unless—

Chapter 393

Thinking of that possibility, Su Xiaoxiao felt that she had to verify it.

Su Xiaoxiao knew very well that the reason why she paid attention to Bai Xihe was not because of who Bai Xihe looked like, but because there was an invisible pusher behind the Wei family and the Qin family.

Anything related to the Prince of Nanyang and the Wei family might hide a clue.

As she was thinking, Madam Yang's scream came from outside. “Aiyo! What are you doing! Dahu, Erhu, Xiaohu! Are you alright?”

Dahu and the others were here?

Su Xiaoxiao immediately went to the back door of the medical center with Physician Fu.

The front door of the medical center was on Scholar Street, and the back door was a long alley facing an entire row of walls.

The alley was narrow and the carriage could not stop. There were not many pedestrians passing by here, and the three little ones would occasionally go to the back alley to play.

They had just finished school.

Su Xiaoxiao had only moved back to Pear Blossom Lane last night. Ah Zhong had forgotten for a moment and thought that he would bring the three little fellows to the medical center like a few days ago.

At that time, Su Xiaoxiao was changing the patient's dressing. The three little ones considerately didn't disturb her and played at the back door.

The three of them took small stones and scribbled on the ground. Halfway through, a fatty came over.

.....

The little fatty was about the size of Niudan. He was holding a box of fried fruits in his arms and eating them.

The three children, who had only learned to be normal, started observing the boy who looked like Niudan. When they suddenly saw a little boy about

Niudan's age, the three of them were a little stunned.

The three of them sized up him curiously.

They probably wanted to see a trace of Niudan in him.

However, the little fatty was not an idiot. He was Imperial Physician Hu's biological son, the legitimate son of the Hu family.

“You're those three brats!” The little fatty pouted. “You look identical. Are you triplets? My second uncle asked me to play with you!”

His face was filled with the words: You're so young. I despise you.

“It's not Niudan,” Dahu said.

“Well, no,” Erhu said.

“Playing with Niudan,” Xiaohu said.

The three of them only wanted to play with Niudan and not this person.

The little fatty walked over reluctantly and looked down at the three little ones who had lowered their heads to scribble again. “Hey, what are you doing? Drawing? It's so ugly! Can't your family even afford paper and pens?”

The three little ones ignored him and continued to scribble.

The little fatty was ignored and was very unhappy. He grabbed a few fruits and threw them at one of the children.

It was Dahu who was hit.

Xiaohu was angry. He ignored that the other party was older than him and rushed forward to punch him. “Don't bully Dahu!”

The little guy's fist was quite heavy. The chubby boy's thigh hurt. In a fit of anger, he reached out to push Xiaohu.

He was seven years old. It was easy for him to push down a child who was less than two or three years old.

However, he did not expect Xiaohu to dodge.

The little fatty went to push again, and Dahu bumped into him like a small cannon.

The seven-year-old fatty was sprawled out and stunned!

The little fatty was unreasonable at home. He was the youngest and everyone gave in to him. In addition, the children of the servants in the residence were afraid of him. If they were bullied by him, they could only swallow their anger. His personality was very unpleasant.

Unfortunately, he had bullied the wrong person this time.

They were the three little bullies who had made half of the children in the village cry on their first day in the village. Could they be bullied by a little fatty?

Dahu fell beside the little fatty.

In order not to let the little fatty catch Dahu, Erhu grabbed the fried fruit on the ground and threw it at him.

The little fatty cried out.

Xiaohu also picked up the fried fruit and threw it. It was just that he was weak and missed.

Madam Yang brought the washed vegetables in. Coincidentally, the water in the pot boiled. She took a ladle and scooped water. Halfway through, she heard the child's cries.

She was shocked and thought that something had happened to the three children. She ran out to take a look.

Uh… It seemed different from what she had imagined..

The little fatty's wail finally attracted the attention of the Benevolence Hall. Shopkeeper Wu and Second Master Hu hurriedly walked out.

Shopkeeper Wu was the one who paid attention to the little fatty approaching the three little ones. Shopkeeper Wu knew that there were triplets next door, so he wanted the little fatty to play with them.

After getting used to it, he would ask him to bring a maidservant or older servants and children over to ask for information.

In order to dispel Number One Hall's wariness, he specially convinced Second Master Hu to let the little fatty go himself.

The triplets were not even three years old. At most, they would not be able to play together. Anyway, the little fatty would not suffer a loss.

But he suffered. “Little Master!”

“Ji'er!”

Shopkeeper Wu and Second Master Hu's expressions changed drastically.

The two of them hurriedly rushed forward and wanted to slap the three little ones away.

Madam Yang picked up the shoulder pole on the ground and swung it at him.

“Ouch!”

Shopkeeper Wu took a solid hit.

The three little ones ran behind Madam Yang.

Although Madam Yang was only a woman, she was quite bold and strong. One pole after another, she beat Shopkeeper Wu and Second Master Hu up! Manager Wu said sternly, “You crazy woman! What are you doing!”

Madam Yang grabbed the shoulder pole and said without showing any weakness, “A crazy woman is still better than you two gutless men! You're dozens of years old, yet you're bullying three children! What ability do you have! Pfft!”

Manager Wu exploded. “Which eye of yours saw us bullying them!”

They had reached out to hit the children just now, but they didn't hit them.

On the other hand, what did these three little things do to their young master?

Second Master Hu picked up the little fatty.

The little fatty had never suffered such grievances in his life. He cried in Second Master Hu's arms.

Second Master Hu, who could not withstand the weight: Can you come down before crying?

After taking a few hits, Shopkeeper Wu finally grabbed Madam Yang's shoulder pole. He was about to press her to the ground.

Suddenly, a fat figure strode over and kicked him in the chest, sending him flying.

He slammed into the wall behind him and fell to the ground with a thud. One of his front teeth flew out!

“Stop!”

It was Hu Biyun.

She was the one who brought her brother to the medical center today. She had just bought a box of snacks for her brother. She did not expect something to happen to him in such a short time.

“Second Sister—”

The little fatty threw himself into her arms. “They hit me!”

Hu Biyun asked, “Who hit you?”

The little fatty raised his hand and pointed at the three children beside Su Xiaoxiao. “They… are triplets…”

At this moment, many patients of the Benevolence Hall and the people from the other shops also came out to watch the commotion.

Hu Biyun looked at her wailing brother and her heart ached. She glared at Su Xiaoxiao coldly. “Miss Su, you'd better give me an explanation!”

Su Xiaoxiao looked at the three little ones.

Xiaohu pointed at himself and then at the fried fruit on the ground. “He pushed Xiaohu and threw the fruit. Dahu hurts!”

Everyone understood that it was the little fatty of the Hu family who pushed one of them first and even threw fruits at them before they retaliated..

Chapter 394

Xiaohu continued to say vividly, “Dahu… his head hurts! Erhu… his hand hurts!”

What Xiaohu wanted to express was that the fatty had pushed him. In order to protect him, Dahu had hit him with his head. In order to protect Dahu, Erhu had picked up fruits and thrown them at him. The fruits were so prickly…

However, what the surrounding commoners understood was—not only did this child throw fruits at people, but he also hit one child's head and another child's hand.

Good lord, he was only seven years old. Could he bully others so easily?

Look at how wronged the three little fellows were?

The little fatty of the Hu family was furious. “You're talking nonsense! It was you… You bumped into me! You knocked me down! You even hit me!”

He couldn't tell which one had hit him. The three little fellows looked identical, and so did their hair and clothes. It was blinding.

Xiaohu placed his hands on his hips and stomped his feet. “No, you hit me first! ”

Su Xiaoxiao tugged at her sleeve indifferently and said, “Miss Hu, my sons are only two years old. Do you really think they can knock down such a big child?”

Everyone nodded. That's right. The little fellows looked less than three years old. How did they knock down a seven-year-old fatty?

It was obvious that this little fatty was bullying the three little fellows. When the adults came out, he would play the blame game when he could not win.

Speaking of which, many people present knew this young master of

.....

Benevolence Hall. They knew that he was the youngest legitimate son of the Hu family. His family had spoiled him and he was very delicate. He liked to bully others, cry, and lie.

Feeling everyone's questioning gazes, Hu Biyun was extremely embarrassed!

She had also heard from Qin Yanran that Su Daya had adopted a few sons in the countryside. Su Cheng's daughter could not get married and would not have anyone to rely on in the future. When she was old, there would be no one to send her off, so she raised three sons from outside.

She had also heard that Su Daya had a live-in son-in-law in the countryside. However, ever since they found out about their background, Su Cheng and his daughter looked down on a farmer from the countryside. When they entered the capital, they did not bring him along at all and left him in the countryside on the grounds that he was recuperating.

It seemed that Su Cheng and his daughter wanted to find a rich husband in the capital again.

How shameless!

Hu Biyun tried to anger Su Xiaoxiao with her eyes, but she was disappointed. Su Xiaoxiao didn't take her seriously at all.

She gritted her teeth and slowly walked up to Su Xiaoxiao. She said coldly, “Su Daya, don't be smug. So what if your father defeated Qin Jiang? After obtaining military power and losing your soul, you will pay the price for your stupidity one day.”

Su Xiaoxiao looked at her indifferently, her emotions unchanged. “Are you done?”

Hu Biyun was stunned.

Su Xiaoxiao's voice was very calm, but her eyes were filled with terrifying danger. “Look after your brother. My sons are young, but I might not be so gentle.”

Hu Biyun thought of how this girl had thrown Lin Ruyue into the water and felt a chill run down her spine.

Su Xiaoxiao picked up the shoulder pole on the ground and brought the three little ones back to the backyard of the medical center with Madam Yang.

“Sister-in-law Cao, are you alright?” Su Xiaoxiao asked Madam Yang.

Facing Shopkeeper Wu and Second Master Hu, Madam Yang actually picked up the shoulder pole and fought with them. This courage was impressive. Madam Yang hurriedly said, “I'm fine. They're such bastards. They even want to attack the children…”

She thought of something and said, “Boss, I didn't cause you any trouble, right?”

She didn't care when she rushed up. After fighting, she realized that one of them was the shopkeeper of the Benevolence Hall, and the other was the owner of the Benevolence Hall.

Their Number One Hall was already on bad terms with the Benevolence Hall. If the Benevolence Hall caught them with something—

“No,” Su Xiaoxiao said. “I have to thank you this time. Otherwise, Dahu, Erhu, and Xiaohu would have suffered. You don't have to worry about Benevolence Hall. Manager Sun will settle it.”

With Manager Sun taking action, it was still uncertain who would have something on who.

“That's good.” Madam Yang was relieved. “Take a look at the children. I saw them fall just now.”

“Yes.” Su Xiaoxiao brought the three little ones back to her courtyard.

Ah Zhong and Chef Cao had gone out to buy groceries. Little Weizi and the others were busy in front and did not know that something had happened in the backyard. Otherwise, Little Weizi would have rushed up to fight them.

Physician Fu came over to see the three little fellows. Xiaohu and Erhu were fine, but Dahu's knees were bald.

Physician Fu's heart ached.

How painful would it be for such a young child to fall?

“Let me do it,” he said to Su Xiaoxiao.

As the saying went, the mother's heart would hurt when the child's body was injured. He was afraid that Su Xiaoxiao would be sad.

“It's fine. I'll do it.” Su Xiaoxiao brought over a cotton swab and iodophor.

Xiaohu and Erhu also came over.

“Dahu, blow for you.” Xiaohu wheezed at Dahu's knee.

He wheezed on his left knee, and Erhu wheezed on his right knee, one on each side. They drooled on Dahu.

Dahu enjoyed the treatment that was previously meant for Uncle Ergou and decided not to blow air for Uncle Ergou anymore.

Su Xiaoxiao still had to educate them about what had happened today.

Although they were not at fault and it was Hu Biyun's brother who provoked them first, there were some things that they had to pay attention to.

She asked solemnly, “Have you thought about what to do if you can't win?”

“Run!” Xiaohu said.

Su Xiaoxiao was speechless.

Dahu's skin was solid. It was only a little scratched. Soon, it did not hurt anymore. He jumped down to the ground with a whoosh and ran to play with his brothers.

Su Xiaoxiao went to the Marquis Wuwei's Estate to check on Jing Yi.

Jing Yi was recovering well. The infection on the wound had completely disappeared, and his wound was healing rapidly. At this rate, he would recover in a few days.

“Can I practice swordsmanship now?” Jing Yi asked.

Su Xiaoxiao said seriously, “No! You have to endure this month at least.”

Did this child pretend that he had never been injured when his fever subsided?

Jing Yi was disappointed. “Oh.”

He had been in bed for a few days and felt terrible.

Su Xiaoxiao took out a box of snacks for him. “New flavor, hawthorn cake.”

Jing Yi took the snacks and his eyes lit up again.

Su Xiaoxiao packed her medicine box and prepared to leave.

Jing Yi asked, “Are you… leaving?

Su Xiaoxiao nodded. “Your injuries are fine. I'll come back in three days for a follow-up.”

Jing Yi lowered his eyes, his gaze a little resentful.

He touched the snack box in his arms and suddenly said, “There's been progress on the hunting ground case. Do you want to hear it?”

Since it was related to Su Cheng, Su Xiaoxiao naturally had to listen.

She sat back down on the stool beside the bed.

Jing Yi was a little energetic. “Those assassins lying in ambush in the forest and that guard surnamed Cheng came from a sect organization in the martial world —White Lotus Society.” “White Lotus Society?”

Su Xiaoxiao muttered.

This sect was very famous in her previous life. It had really existed in history. She did not expect it to exist here.

The White Lotus Society she knew was once a legitimate religion. It originated from Buddhism, observed its tenets and did not kill. It only slowly changed after it was passed down.

She wondered what the White Lotus Society here was like.

Jing Yi continued, “In addition, there's some progress on the case of the corpses under the attic.” Su Xiaoxiao queried, “Oh?”

Chapter 395

Looking at her like this, Jing Yi felt that she was not like his sister.

When his sister heard these things, she would ask him to stop talking in fear.

However, Su Xiaoxiao had the rare bravery of a woman in the world.

He said, “It was also done by the White Lotus Society. That place was once a stronghold of the White Lotus Society. The corpses buried in the cellar were all believers of the White Lotus Society. Rumor has it that the White Lotus Society has a tradition of making offerings… The Imperial Capital thinks that those dead people might have offered to be sacrificed voluntarily.”

Voluntary sacrifice?

This White Lotus Society was a big evil sect!

“How did the White Lotus Society come about? How many years has it been in the Great Zhou?” Su Xiaoxiao asked.

Jing Yi thought for a moment and said, “I'm not sure how it came about. It just… suddenly happened. It seemed to have been preaching for about ten to twenty years. ”

Su Xiaoxiao was deep in thought.

She had heard from Wei Ting that the archer was from a martial arts organization that had been destroyed many years ago.

Perhaps the White Lotus Society was built by the remnants of that martial arts organization.

Back then, that martial arts organization was destroyed by Wei Ting's grandfather, Lord Wu An. The other party must hate Lord Wu An and the Wei family to the core.

.....

Thinking of Wei Ting's repeated assassinations and the pusher behind the hatred between the Wei and Qin families, Su Xiaoxiao felt that this White Lotus Society was very suspicious.

At the Protectorate.

Qin Canglan had just brought Su Cheng to the military camp. Next month, Su Cheng would be handed his military power. Before that, he hoped to let Su Cheng familiarize himself with the environment.

He did not force Su Cheng to move back to the Protectorate. Su Cheng needed to slowly adapt to his identity, so he could not be anxious.

When he returned to the courtyard, he got someone to call Steward Cen to the study.

“How's Qin Jiang?” Qin Canglan asked.

Steward Cen said, “The imperial physician took a look. He said that… his injuries are too serious. His right leg is probably going to be crippled.”

Qin Canglan said nothing.

Steward Cen probed, “Old Master, are you sad?”

Qin Canglan glanced at him coldly. “Are you crazy or am I crazy?”

Steward Cen smiled awkwardly. “I spoke too much.'

From the moment Qin Jiang framed Su Cheng, he was no longer innocent. Unless Qin Canglan was crazy, he would never sympathize with Qin Jiang.

Qin Canglan thought for a moment and said, “Get them to move out!”

Originally, on account that they were of the Qin family's bloodline, he had left them a place to stay in the Western Campus. Unexpectedly, each of them was more restless than the other. Qin Yun was even more so at a young age and had dealt with Ergou time and time again.

This time, someone almost died.

If Wei Ting had not sacrificed his hand, Ergou's head would have been pierced.

None of these troublemakers could stay in the residence.

Steward Cen was not surprised by this decision. The old Duke Protector was not a cold-blooded and heartless person, but he was definitely not a soft-hearted person. If one dared to attack the young masters, he would be chased out.

Manager Cen was about to agree when the servant reported that Qin Yanran had come.

Qin Canglan's expression was hidden in the shadows and was difficult to read.

Steward Cen looked at him carefully and asked, “Shall I… send her away?”

Qin Canglan said calmly, “Let her in.”

Manager Cen waved at the servant. The servant understood and led Qin Yanran into the study.

Qin Yanran was dressed plainly and her hair accessories were simple.

She slowly bowed to Qin Canglan. “Yanran is here to bid farewell to Grandpa.”

Qin Canglan said coldly, “I'm not your grandfather.”

Qin Yanran didn't seem to have heard Qin Canglan. She lowered her eyes and said softly, “We're moving out of the residence. Thank you for raising us all these years… farewell!”

With that, she slowly knelt down and kowtowed three times to Qin Canglan.

Looking at her departing back, Steward Cen was at a loss. “Master, she's…”

Qin Canglan said calmly, “Ignore her. Let her go.”

“Then… should we send someone to keep an eye on them?”

“No need.”

Qin Yanran did not take too many things with her. She dismissed the servants in the courtyard and only left a few trusted aides who took care of them. Then, she sat in a carriage to leave the residence.

Xu Qing placed her box away and was about to leave.

“Sit down,” Qin Yanran said.

Xu Qing hesitated for a moment before sitting down opposite Qin Yanran. He reached out and gestured for the coachman outside to leave.

The carriage slowly drove out of the Protector Duke's Estate.

The sky was completely dark, and the carriage was pitch-black.

Xu Qing asked, “Do you want me to hold the lamp?”

Qin Yanran did not answer him. Instead, she said lightly, “Xu Qing, after leaving this mansion, I'll no longer be the eldest daughter of the Protector Duke. Are you sure you're still following us?”

Xu Qing said, “Master saved my life. I will be loyal to him for the rest of my life.

Qin Yanran asked, “What about me? Will you be loyal to me too?”

In the darkness, her clear beautiful eyes stared straight at Xu Qing.

Xu Qing's eyes moved. He stood up and knelt on one knee. “I'm willing to go through fire and water for Miss!”

After the three-day vacation, the Palace Academy resumed class.

Su Xiaoxiao arrived late, and most of the daughters in the classroom had already arrived.

Everyone gathered around Miss Wang's table and whispered.

“Have you heard? The competition between Qin Jiang and the Duke Protector has ended.”

“Three days have passed. Of course, it's over.”

“Do you know who won?”

“Of course, it's Qin Jiang! That Su Cheng grew up in the countryside. How can he compare to Qin Jiang, who was raised in the Duke's Estate for twenty years?”

“Then you're really wrong! Su Cheng won!”

“How is that possible?”

“That's right. How can Su Cheng win against Qin Jiang? Two out of three rounds. Which two aspects did he win?

“He won the martial arts, riding and archery, and art of war!” Gasps sounded in the classroom.

Obviously, everyone was very surprised by this outcome.

Miss Wang, who was packing her books, said in confusion, “If Qin Jiang loses, Miss Qin will be pitiful in the future… Will she still come to class?”

This question successfully stumped everyone.

That was right. The fact that Qin Yanran was not Qin Canglan's biological granddaughter already made her status awkward. Now that her father had lost his power, how could she stand in the capital in the future?

The eldest daughter of the Lu family, Lu Li, said softly, “Haven't you… heard?

Something… happened to Miss Qin.”

In the imperial study, Xiao Duye knelt on the ground with a solemn expression. Xiao Zhonghua and the other two princes stood at the side with solemn expressions.

Emperor Jingxuan sat behind the desk opposite them with a furious expression.

He looked coldly at Xiao Duye, who had his head lowered, and said sternly, “What did you do?”

Emperor Jingxuan was not a temperamental emperor. On the contrary, he was rarely angry. To be able to force him to this extent, it was obvious how angry he was.

Indeed, it was also because he had been unhappy recently.

The imperial study was silent.

Eunuch Fu came to the door with a pot of tea. When he heard the emperor's anger, he closed his eyes and decided not to go in first.

“She's your third brother's fiancée!” Emperor Jing Xuan was about to explode.

Xiao Duye lowered his head aggrievedly. “I… I had no choice…”

Emperor Jingxuan snorted.. “You had no choice? Was there no one on the shore?”

Chapter 396

The scene of the incident was on a pleasure boat by the lake. There were many tourists there, so it was impossible not to have a third person.

Xiao Duye explained, “Yes, but no one dared to go down. It's not good to swim underwater. Time was tight, and a life was at stake. I didn't think too much about it, so I jumped into the water to save her… When I saved her… I realized that the woman who committed suicide… was actually Miss Qin…”

Seeking death?

This information attracted Emperor Jing Xuan's attention.

Qin Jiang lost the competition. Was Qin Yanran so suicidal?

Xiao Duye wished he could take out his heart. “Father, believe me. I really didn' do anything unruly to Miss Qin… Fourth and Fifth Brother are also here. Father you can ask them!”

Emperor Jing Xuan's gaze landed on the Fourth Prince and the Fifth Prince.

The fourth prince said, “Father, after Big Brother saved Miss Qin, he handed her over to the servants.”

The Fifth Prince nodded, confirming that this was indeed the case.

Emperor Jing Xuan calmed down and said in a low voice, “The few of you, retreat first!”

Xiao Duye stood up and turned to leave with his brothers.

Emperor Jingxuan spoke again. “Third Brother, stay.”

.....

Xiao Duye glanced at Xiao Zhonghua.

Xiao Zhonghua said, “Yes, Father.”

After the few of them left the imperial study, Emperor Jingxuan asked Eunuch Fu to summon Qin Yanran into the palace.

Qin Yanran fell into the water last night, and her face was still a little weak and pale today.

“Greetings, Your Majesty.”

She bowed respectfully and even spoke weakly.

Emperor Jing Xuan pressed his eyebrows and asked, “I heard that you committed suicide last night?”

Qin Yanran lowered her eyes and said softly, “Your Majesty, I didn't commit suicide.”

Emperor Jing Xuan asked calmly, “Are you saying that the Eldest Prince is lying?”

Qin Yanran said, “His Eldest Highness didn't lie either. He just misunderstood me. I just moved out of the Duke's Protectorate yesterday. There were many things to buy in my new residence. On the way back, I wanted to bring a pot of fresh fish soup back to nourish my father and brother. Unexpectedly, I fainted and fell into the water while waiting for the fish soup on the pleasure boat.”

Move out of the residence?

Many things to buy?

Fainted and fell into the water?

This meant that she was in a hurry to move and came out before she was ready. She was most likely tired from fainting.

Thinking of the series of changes she had suffered, it was not an exaggeration to say that she had fallen from the clouds into the mud.

Emperor Jing Xuan asked with a complicated expression, “Did Qin Canglan chase you out?”

Qin Yanran said, “Uncle… Uncle didn't. I felt that I was too ashamed to stay in the Duke's Estate, so I took the initiative to bring Father and Brother out.”

Emperor Jingxuan asked suspiciously, “You made your own decision? Are your father and brother… seriously injured?”

Qin Yanran was depressed. “He's still unconscious.”

Emperor Jing Xuan frowned.

Qin Yanran hurriedly said, “Your Majesty, please don't blame Uncle. I did want to move out myself.”

Emperor Jing Xuan snorted coldly. “You don't have to speak up for Qin Canglan. I know his personality very well! If you didn't leave, he will have chased you away. By doing this, you saved some face.”

Qin Yanran didn't refute.

Emperor Jing Xuan's gaze landed on Qin Yanran's weak body. He suddenly felt that it was not easy for this daughter who had been abandoned by her family.

What happened back then was not her fault. She had never caused trouble to frame anyone like Qin Yun. She was well-behaved and did not fight for things. In the end, she was still implicated by her father and brother. She could not even stay in the mansion she had grown up in.

“I often hear the teacher praise you,” Emperor Jingxuan said.

“The teachers overpraised me,” Qin Yanran said calmly.

Emperor Jing Xuan cut to the chase. “What do you think about last night?”

The people of this dynasty were more open-minded than the previous dynasty, but the barrier between men and women was still serious. She had a physical relationship with the Eldest Prince in public, so it was inevitable that she would be criticized if she married the Third Prince.

The Eldest Prince's reputation was not pleasant either.

There were only two choices in front of her—become the Eldest Prince's person or become a nun.

Qin Yanran looked ashamed. “The Eldest Prince was focused on saving me, but he was implicated by me. It was my fault. I don't know how to atone for my sins, but please give me some time. When I recover from taking care of my father and brother, I will find a nunnery and accompany the ancient Buddha for the rest of my life.”

It seemed that she had no intention of pestering the Third Brother.

Emperor Jingxuan glanced at Xiao Zhonghua.

From the beginning to the end, this son did not plead for Qin Yanran. Emperor Jingxuan knew what to do.

Emperor Jingxuan's gaze landed on Qin Yanran's pale face. “The Eldest Prince already has a main consort. I'll have to trouble you to be a secondary consort.”

Qin Yanran's expression froze for a moment.

Emperor Jingxuan asked, “Why? Are you unwilling?”

Qin Yanran kowtowed. “Thank you, Your Majesty.”

After walking out of the imperial study, a breeze blew past her face, blowing up her slightly loose hair.

Her face was still pale, but her eyes were filled with determination. “Su Daya, I will definitely take back everything that belongs to me!”

“Look! Miss Qin is here!”

In the palace, a young lady discovered Qin Yanran outside the door.

The classroom instantly fell silent.

Everyone sized up her curiously.

She didn't enter the classroom immediately. Instead, she walked towards Su Xiaoxiao, who was washing her brush in a small pond at the side.

Su Xiaoxiao saw her reflection in the water and ignored it. She continued to wash the brush.

Qin Yanran was no longer like before, easily angered by the other party's neglect.

“Did you think I'd be under your feet for the rest of my life? But I'm sorry to disappoint you.”

“I'm going to marry the Eldest Prince as his secondary consort.”

“Don't forget that the daughter of the Duke's Protector is engaged to the Third Prince. If I get married, who do you think will get that engagement?”

“You really shouldn't have snatched my father's military power. I would have married the Third Prince on your behalf. Wouldn't it be the best of both worlds if you and Wei Ting lived together? You can't have both. You were too greedy. You forced me.'

“Do you want to guess what His Majesty is talking about with the Third Prince in the Imperial Study?”

Chapter 397

After all the unrelated people left, only Emperor Jingxuan and Xiao Zhonghua were left in the imperial study.

Among Emperor Jing Xuan's many sons, his eldest son, Xiao Duye, had the most real power—the Associate Imperial Guard, and his second son, Xiao Jinyan, had the highest official position. He was the imperial envoy of Youzhou, and his third son, Xiao Zhonghua, was not the most valued.

The reason why he arranged a marriage for him with the Qin family was that the Eldest Prince and the Second Prince were already married. He could not let the daughter of the Protector Duke be the Secondary Consort of the Prince with military power.

As for his younger brothers, it was either their mother's family background was not good enough or they were too young to be suitable.

In the eyes of outsiders, Xiao Zhonghua knew how much Emperor Jing Xuan doted on him.

He would not think that his father liked him so much just because this marriage landed on him.

To put it bluntly, his father just had no choice.

Emperor Jing Xuan said, “Although it was an accident that something like this happened to Qin Yanran and your brother, you've suffered.”

Xiao Zhonghua said nothing.

If he were to say that he did not feel aggrieved at all, he would seem angry.

Xiao Zhonghua had already guessed what Emperor Jingxuan wanted to say to him.

If it was her—

.....

Emperor Jing Xuan said calmly, “Your wedding date with the Qin family was originally scheduled for May. It's already April…”

Xiao Zhonghua said seriously, “Father, she's already married in the countryside. Father, do you want me to marry a married woman?”

Emperor Jing Xuan said indifferently, “If you have someone you like, just take her as your secondary consort.”

“Father…”

“Your Majesty! Your Majesty!”

Eunuch Quan walked over anxiously. “Something's wrong! The Empress Dowager… fainted!”

Emperor Jing Xuan's expression changed. “What!”

The Empress Dowager suddenly had an emergency and was unconscious. Many imperial physicians, led by Hu Jiusheng, gathered in Yongshou Palace to urgently discuss treatment plans.

Emperor Jing xuan entered the Empress Dowager's bedroom with a dignified expression.

Looking at the withered Empress Dowager on the phoenix bed, Emperor Jing Xuan's aura was extremely cold.

“What's going on? Didn't they say that the Empress Dowager has improved?” The imperial physicians fell silent.

Hu Jiusheng emboldened himself and cupped his hands. “Your Majesty, after I changed the prescription for the Empress Dowager, her illness has indeed improved…”

Emperor Jingxuan said in a low voice, “Then why did she suddenly faint?”

Hu Jiusheng was also puzzled, but he could not show it. Otherwise, people would doubt his medical skills.

He cupped his hands and said, “This… please allow me to take the Empress Dowager's pulse carefully.”

Emperor Jingxuan suppressed the anger in his heart and agreed to Imperial Physician Hu's request.

Hu Jiusheng took his pulse with a troubled expression.

“How is it?” Emperor Jingxuan asked.

Hu Jiusheng braced himself and said, “Empress Dowager… was overthinking…”

Emperor Jing Xuan's voice darkened. “Overthinking again. Can't you say anything else?! You're the imperial physician. I called you here to ask you to treat the Empress Dowager's illness, not to brush me off with a sentence!”

The emperor was abnormally agitated.

Imperial Physician Hu was really a little wronged.

In a few days, it would be the death anniversary of Prince of Nanyang. The Empress Dowager would usually fall ill at this time.

It was all because she missed the Prince of Nanyang.

As the saying went, it was a disease of the heart and mind. The Empress Dowager was indulging in the pain of losing her eldest son. What could they, as imperial physicians, do?

If one had to ask why she had survived in the past but could not be treated this time, it was because the Empress Dowager was aging and her body was not as strong as before. It would become more and more dangerous every year.

Emperor Jingxuan knew that the Empress Dowager was suffering from a mental illness, so he was even angrier.

He was the one who killed the Prince of Nanyang. He was the one who caused the Empress Dowager to suffer from heartache. Other than missing her eldest son, the Empress Dowager hated her youngest son every day.

“I don't care what method you have. If you can't treat the Empress Dowager, bring your heads to see me!”

With that, Emperor Jingxuan flicked his sleeve and left.

“What should we do?”

An imperial physician asked softly.

“Court Commissioner, do you have any ideas?”

Another imperial physician asked.

Hu Jiusheng muttered to himself, “If only I had a way.”

“It's really not that our medical skills are not good. It's really…” An imperial physician was halfway through his sentence when Hu Jiusheng glared at him and he tactfully swallowed his words.

Hu Jiusheng returned to the Imperial Hospital and took out a yellowed handwritten letter from a pile of old medical books.

This letter was left behind by Imperial Physician Fu back then. It recorded many acupuncture techniques for difficult illnesses. He carefully studied it for an hour and discovered that one of the acupuncture techniques might be able to relieve the Empress Dowager's symptoms.

However, this acupuncture technique was dangerous. Imperial Physician Fu had written it clearly—if one was unwell, it might backfire.

“There's no other way now. If I can't treat the Empress Dowager, I'll die anyway.”

Hu Jiusheng's strength was that he was bold and dared to try.

He went to Yongshou Palace and used Imperial Physician Fu's acupuncture. Fifteen minutes later, the Empress Dowager really woke up slowly. When she woke up, she felt hungry and actually ate half a bowl of porridge.

This made the palace servants extremely happy.

She had an appetite. This meant that she was getting better!

Hu Jiuzheng heaved a sigh of relief. Their heads were finally saved.

However, before he could be happy for long, the Empress Dowager's situation changed drastically in the evening and she suddenly lost her hearing!

The Empress Dowager was awake, but she could not hear anything. She was also dizzy and nauseous.

The entire Imperial Hospital panicked.

Hu Jiusheng panicked even more. He had expected that this acupuncture technique had failed. It was not that his technique was bad, but this acupuncture technique was not effective for everyone.

If there were side effects, it would be irreversible.

As Emperor Jing Xuan looked at the imperial physicians kneeling on the ground, killing intent flashed across his eyes.

“Your Majesty, the Third Prince requests an audience,” Eunuch Fu reported in a low voice.

“Why is he here?” Emperor Jing Xuan did not want to see him. “It seems to be for the Empress Dowager's illness,” Eunuch Fu said. Emperor Jingxuan said impatiently, “Let him in.”

The young eunuch brought Xiao Zhonghua into the Empress Dowager's bedroom.

Xiao Zhonghua did not waste his breath and went straight to the point. “Father, I want to recommend a physician.”

Emperor Jing Xuan asked, “A common physician?”

Xiao Zhonghua said, “Yes, this physician's medical skills are brilliant. She's not inferior to a imperial physician. She might be able to treat my grandmother's illness. ”

Emperor Jing Xuan did not believe in common doctors. After all, the best medical skills were in the Imperial Hospital.

But now, the Imperial Physician Hospital was helpless— Emperor Jing Xuan said, “Who?”

Xiao Zhonghua said seriously, “The daughter of the Protector Duke, Su Daya.”

At the entrance of Yongshou Palace, Xiao Zhonghua bumped into Princess Jingning, who had come to attend to the illness with the Empress.

“Mother.” Xiao Zhonghua bowed respectfully.

The Empress nodded and walked into the Eternal Life Palace.

“Third Brother.” Princess Jingning stopped him. “I heard that you were terminally ill in Qingzhou. It was Miss Su who treated you.”

Xiao Zhonghua nodded. “That's true.”

Princess Jing Ning asked coldly, “Then do you know that if she can't treat Grandmother, Father will vent his anger on her? Father was just worrying about not having an excuse to deal with Su Cheng when you gave him something to use against him..”

Chapter 398

Xiao Zhonghua looked at the vast starry sky above his head. “But if she's cured,

Father will owe her a favor.”

Princess Jingning did not understand. Why would he want her father to owe the little girl a favor?

She wanted to ask a few more questions, but Xiao Zhonghua had already turned around and disappeared into the night.

She frowned.

“Princess.” Taozhi put a cloak on her. “Go in. It's windy outside.”

Princess Jingning looked at Xiao Zhonghua's thin back thoughtfully. “My third brother… Whose side is he on?”

Su Xiaoxiao spent a day in the palace school following the rules.

The news of Su Cheng winning the military power competition spread in the Palace Academy. She could feel the change in the way the daughters looked at her.

The two daughters of the Lu family even took the initiative to come over and talk to her.

After school, a few more daughters planned to come and greet Su Xiaoxiao.

Hu Biyun sneered and said, “Have you forgotten about isolating her in the past?

A daughter surnamed Liu said, “Miss Hu, watch your words!”

Hu Biyun mocked, “Did I say something wrong? Didn't you isolated her?” The few of them choked.

To be honest, their impression of Su Xiaoxiao had long changed. It was not because Su Cheng had won the competition that they wanted to be friends with her.

The last time she helped Lu Hui deal with Hu Biyun's mockery, everyone already felt that she was not as useless as the rumors claim.

Moreover, she was chubby and cute.

They really wanted to feed her!

Miss Liu said, “You're just jealous of Miss Su!”

Another daughter echoed, “That's right. You're jealous that her medical skills are better than yours!”

Hu Biyun snorted. “My father is a Court Commissioner at the Imperial Hospital. My medical skills were learned from my father. She only learned a little from a village man. Do you really think she's so powerful! ”

“But last time, you couldn't even smell the medicine…”

“Exactly!”

Hu Biyun blushed.

Su MO had yet to return to the capital. The coachman who picked Su Xiaoxiao up today was arranged by Su Mo.

The coachman sent Su Xiaoxiao to Pear Blossom Lane before leaving.

Su Xiaoxiao went to pick up the three little ones.

They had been busy for the past few days. It was either Ah Zhong or Little Weizi who came to pick them up. They had not enjoyed Su Xiaoxiao's transportation for a long time.

The three little ones only saw Su Xiaoxiao at the door and cried out excitedly. They flapped their arms and pounced into her arms.

The three little fellows had grown taller and heavier. Su Xiaoxiao almost didn't catch them.

“Three little weights.”

Su Xiaoxiao said in amusement.

The three of them sucked in her fragrant scent, filling up the entire day's longing.

Su Xiaoxiao asked softly, “Did you listen to Master obediently today?”

“Yes!” The three of them nodded.

“Dahu listened to him!” “Erhu was also obedient!” “Xiaohu was the most obedient!”

Dahu and Erhu looked at him.

Wasn't he the most disobedient? Who smeared Master's flute with a pool of saliva?

“Mother.” Xiaohu placed his small book bag on the ground and rummaged through it. He took out a long flute and handed it to Su Xiaoxiao.

Su Xiaoxiao exclaimed, “Eh, what a beautiful jade flute.”

Xiaohu patted his chest and said proudly, “Master gave it to me! Master gave it to Xiaohu! He doesn't have it! He doesn't have it either!”

Dahu and Erhu looked at him speechlessly.

Was that because you played the flute into a funeral trumpet and almost sent your master to the heavens?!

“How's your master recently?”

She wondered if he had been eating the digestive enzyme she gave him last time.

Coincidentallv_ T .inø Viln_ who had finallv gent off the three little hilllieq
walked out to take a breather.

As soon as he reached the corridor, he heard Xiaohu say, “You've gained weight!”

Ling Yun staggered!

Evil disciple!

The three little ones were especially happy today. They followed their mother and skipped home.

Just as they reached the door, a carriage stopped in front of the three of them.

A familiar figure jumped down. It was Changping, whom she had not seen for a long time.

Changping was Xiao Zhonghua's long-time follower. He had met Su Xiaoxiao many times in Qingzhou.

The two of them did not get along well, and it was still the same. Changping pouted unwillingly and said, “My master invites you.” Su Xiaoxiao entered the house.

Changping, who had said the invitation in vain, was speechless.

Changping looked at the three little ones again. The three little ones also swung their heads and entered without looking back!

Changping muttered, “No way? I'm actually despised by three babies? Haven't they gone a little overboard?”

The three little ones worked together and pushed the door closed with a bang!

Changping was speechless.

Changping curled his lips aggrievedly and obediently lowered his posture before knocking on the door.

“Who are you looking for?” Xiaohu asked.

“I'm looking for… Physician Su,” Changping said.

Xiaohu continued, “Why are you looking for my mother?”

Changping deliberated over his words and said, “A Guiren (noble) is very sick. My young master asked your mother to make a house call.”

As soon as Changping finished speaking, he heard Xiaohu run a few steps and say in a childish voice, “Mother, he s inviting you to treat a Gui Zhe De Ren

(kneeling person)!”

Changping's legs went weak!

“Little ancestor, don't take my life…”

Su Cheng was not at home, and Zhong Shan was taking care of Su Ergou in the house.

Su Xiaoxiao spoke to the two of them.

Zhong Shan told her not to worry. He would wait for Su Cheng to return before leaving.

Su Xiaoxiao said to the three little ones, “The three of you have to watch Uncle.

Don't let him run around, understand?”

The three of them nodded. They would guard their uncle!

Su Xiaoxiao got into Changping's carriage.

She first went to the medical center to get the first aid kit. When she came out, Hu Biyun, who had come to Benevolence Hall, saw her.

Hu Biyun frowned slightly.

Wasn't that the guard beside the Third Prince? Where was she going in the Third Prince's carriage?

Could it be that she was going to meet the Third Prince in private?

Due to the urgency of the matter, Changping brought her to the Yong Shou

Palace.

Just now, the palace maid had served the Empress Dowager medicine. The Empress Dowager did not drink it and knocked over the medicine bowl, causing it to splatter all over the ground. Emperor Jing Xuan and the empress, tha

Jing Ning calculated the time of Su Xiaoxiao's arrival and persuaded the two of them to change their clothes in the side hall.

As soon as the two of them left, Su Xiaoxiao entered the Empress Dowager's bedroom with Changping.

Princess Jingning came out from behind the screen and pulled Su Xiaoxiao aside. She whispered, “Didn't you receive my note?”

Su Xiaoxiao asked, “What note?”

Princess Jingning looked at Changping.

Changping's eyes flashed..

Chapter 399

Changping lowered his head guiltily and silently took out a crumpled note.

Princess Jingning glared at him. “You're tired of living!”

“The Third Prince asked me to do this…”

Changping decisively sold his master.

Su Xiaoxiao opened the note and saw that it was from Jingning. “Don't come.”

Princess Jingning said earnestly, “My grandmother is very sick, and your father has just obtained military power. He's a thorn in my father's side. At this juncture, if there's any mistake, you'll die.”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “It's not a dead end. At most, I'll end up with a trump card or a crime.”

Princess Jingning frowned and said, “You knew, but you still dare to come?”

Su Xiaoxiao smiled. “I definitely have to come. If I don't come, how will I know if I can treat the illness?”

Princess Jingning said regretfully, “I've really spoiled you!”

The eunuch in charge of the Yong Shou Palace walked over and said calmly to

Su Xiaoxiao, “Physician Su, please.”

Su Xiaoxiao nodded and went to the Empress Dowager's bed.

Princess Jingning called Taozhi over. “Ask Little Zhuozi to leave the palace and look for my grandfather.”

Taozhi asked, “Princess, why are you looking for the Grand Tutor?”

Princess Jing Ning said, “Tell him to quickly find a few powerful divine physicians among the commoners. The sooner, the better!”

What if that girl couldn't cure her grandmother… It should be said that there was an 80% chance that she couldn't be treated..

At the very least, she had to make some preparations. She did not want her father to really behead that girl.

The Empress Dowager had just lost her temper and exhausted her strength. Now, she lay weakly on the phoenix bed.

The eunuch in charge bowed and said respectfully, “Empress Dowager, Physician Su is here.”

The Empress Dowager was deaf and could not hear.

The eunuch in charge wrote with a brush instead. When he was done, he brought it to the Empress Dowager.

The Empress Dowager did not even look up.

She smelled the ink fragrance and said only one word, “Get lost!”

The eunuch in charge smiled awkwardly. The Empress Dowager had asked them to get lost, but His Majesty had allowed Physician Su to treat her…

The eunuch in charge continued to write.

The Empress Dowager still did not open her eyes. “I said to get lost—cough, cough, cough…”

The Empress Dowager was agitated and coughed violently.

She was already weak, to begin with. With such a cough, she almost lost half her life.

Su Xiaoxiao placed the medicine box on the stool and walked over with ease. She grabbed the Empress Dowager's wrist.

The Empress Dowager opened her eyes. “How dare you!”

The eunuch in charge and the two little palace maids serving him were also shocked.

The fat girl had offended the Empress Dowager!

Su Xiaoxiao said solemnly, “Don't move. If you move again, I'll only knock you out with an injection!”

The Empress Dowager could not hear her at all.

Su Xiaoxiao grabbed a pen and paper and wrote in a flamboyant manner, “Move, I, will, inject, you!”

The Empress Dowager really did not move.

However, it was not because she had seen Su Xiaoxiao's words.

She stared fixedly at the little fat girl in front of her and was in a daze. “Su

Huayin…'

The eunuch in charge was 40 years old this year and had never seen Su Huayin, but he had heard of this person and knew that she was the late Madam Duchess.

He bowed and wrote with a pen and paper, “This is Physician Su.”

The Empress Dowager looked at Su Xiaoxiao and asked, “What's your relationship with Su Huayin?”

Su Xiaoxiao wrote, “I'll tell you if you behave well.”

The Empress Dowager was speechless.

Everyone was speechless.

Fifteen minutes later, after careful observation, smell, and questioning, Su Xiaoxiao had a preliminary inference about the reason for the Empress Dowager's deafness. “Empress Dowager, please turn your head.”

She demonstrated.

The Empress Dowager looked resistant, but she still turned her head accordingly.

Right on the heels of that, an extremely strong dizziness assaulted her.

Su Xiaoxiao held her in time.

Su Xiaoxiao took off the jade pendant around her neck.

This piece of jade was soaked in water and worn a lot. It had already recovered its original imperial green luster.

She held the rope from which the pendant was suspended and slowly waved the jade pendant in front of the Empress Dowager.

The Empress Dowager stared at the jade pendant, her pupils suddenly strange.

It was an eye shock.

This could confirm the diagnosis.

Su Xiaoxiao put away the jade pendant and said to Princess Jingning, who was waiting at the side, “The Empress Dowager has earstones.”

“Earstones?” Princess Jingning did not understand.

Su Xiaoxiao explained patiently, “It can be understood that something in the

Empress Dowager's ear has left its original position.”

In that case, Princess Jingning understood. “Is it serious?”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “It's not serious with me around.”

The eunuch in charge winced at her lack of humility.

Su Xiaoxiao continued, “Ordinary earstones rarely cause deafness. The

Empress Dowager's situation is relatively special.”

Princess Jingning's heart skipped a beat again. “Then… can it be treated?”

“I'll try,” Su Xiaoxiao said.

Princess Jingning hurriedly instructed, “Hurry up and get a pen and paper. Let Physician Su prescribe a prescription!”

Su Xiaoxiao stood up and said, “There's no need to take medicine. She'll be fine in a while.”

Everyone suspected that they had heard wrongly.

The Empress Dowager was dizzy, vomiting, and deaf. Was she sure she didn't need to take medicine?

There was a special reset method for earstones. It only needed to be done once to expel the earstones with the help of gravity.

Su Xiaoxiao got someone to bring over a bamboo bed and let the Empress Dowager sit on it.

Her hands were very busy and she could not write. If she did, the Empress Dowager would probably not understand, such as what a 45-degree angle was…

She might as well do it.

Everyone watched as she grabbed the Empress Dowager's head and twisted her hands to the left like she was twisting a chicken's neck. Then, she quickly tilted Empress Dowager to the back.

Everyone was shocked!

Was this girl trying to murder the Empress Dowager?!

Princess Jing Ning tightened her grip and broke out in a cold sweat.

If not for her absolute trust in Su Xiaoxiao, she would probably have given the order to capture the assassin!

Su Xiaoxiao asked the Empress Dowager to lower her head from the edge of the bed to the left.

Half a minute later, she slowly turned the Empress Dowager's head to the right.

Everyone's hearts were in their throats.

She was the first person to dare to twist the Empress Dowager's phoenix neck like a chicken's!

Next was to turn the Empress Dowager's body to the right. Her hand hugged the Empress Dowager's head. To keep her head still, she could only use her legs.

Everyone's eyes were about to pop out!

She actually used her legs to manipulate the Empress Dowager!

Was she not here to die?

This girl was good as dead!

The eunuch in charge clenched his fists and almost blurted out.

Princess Jingning warned, “Shut up!”

Su Xiaoxiao continued her treatment.

This body's flexibility and flexibility were really good. Otherwise, she would really not be able to roll the Empress Dowager over. Then, she kicked the Empress Dowager's calf down.

The eunuch in charge trembled!

Princess Jingning's heart trembled.

“This is all I can do for you. If you continue to be impudent, I won't be able to protect you…”

Fortunately, this was the last position. Half a minute later, Su Xiaoxiao slowly helped the Empress Dowager sit up.

“Alright, Empress Dowager. How are you feeling?”

Endless killing intent surged in the Empress Dowager's eyes as she glared fiercely at the little fat girl in front of her. “You still have the cheek to ask me how I feel? You're so disrespectful to me. I want to punish you to death!”

Princess Jingning said, “Grandmother, can you hear me?”

The Empress Dowager was stunned..

Chapter 400

Hu Jiusheng was reading medical books at the Imperial Hospital.

These books were all left behind by Imperial Physician Fu back then. Imperial Physician Fu was a physician who had spent his life saving lives. He had left behind many precious experiences and did not have the time to take them away because of the sudden incident back then.

His medical books and handwritten notes were all taken by Hu Jiusheng.

Hu Jiusheng was also a talented person. Supported by Imperial Physician Fu's medical books, his medical skills advanced by leaps and bounds, as he conquered many difficult illnesses, and successfully stabilized himself in the Imperial Hospital.

He believed that this time, he would definitely find a way to treat the Empress Dowager.

“There will definitely be… definitely…' He hurriedly flipped through the medical books. Suddenly, Imperial Physician Zhang rushed in.

“Treated, cured, cured… cured!”

He stammered.

Hu Jiusheng and the other imperial physicians looked up at him in confusion.

“What's cured?” Hu Jiusheng asked.

Imperial Physician Zhang's forehead was covered in bean-sized sweat. He was not tired from running over, but excited from witnessing a miracle.

His chest heaved as he panted. “The Empress Dowager… the Empress Dowager's ear disease has been cured!”

Everyone looked at him suspiciously.

An imperial physician surnamed Li said, “lmperial Physician Zhang, this joke isn't funny.”

Imperial Physician Zhang hurriedly said, “It's true! I was in Yongshou Palace just now and heard it with my own ears! The Empress Dowager has earstones and has already recovered her hearing through resetting!”

Hu Jiusheng happened to turn to this page.

Dizziness—ear disease.

Although it did not say the words “earstone”, the symptoms recorded were generally the same as what the Empress Dowager had displayed.

However, this page was not finished. There were only symptoms and no way to deal with it.

Imperial Physician Li did not believe it. He smiled faintly and said, “You just said… it was cured using a reset method? Who reset the Empress Dowager? Was it Imperial Physician Zhang?”

Everyone laughed.

It was not entirely their fault. It was just that Imperial Physician Zhang usually liked to brag and always praised his medical skills. In fact, he was only at the bottom in the Imperial Physician Hospital.

Imperial Physician Zhang was anxious. “It wasn't me… Sigh! It's true this time! I didn't lie to you!”

He did not know how to gain others' trust. Coincidentally, Imperial Physician Zhu came over from Yongshou Palace.

Just now, one of them had stayed behind to guard the Eternal Longevity Palace.

Imperial Physician Zhang hurriedly pulled Imperial Physician Zhu over. “Old

Zhu, tell them, can the Empress Dowager hear you?”

Imperial Physician Zhu nodded. “Ah, yes. Her hearing has recovered. Not only that, but her dizziness has also disappeared. She's no longer nauseous and vomiting.”

As soon as these words were spoken, the lobby of the Imperial Hospital fell silent.

Imperial Physician Zhu was an honest person. Like a monk, he did not lie.

Everyone's expressions changed.

“What, what's going on?” Imperial Physician Li asked in a daze.

Hu Jiusheng also looked at Imperial Physician Zhu in surprise.

Imperial Physician Zhu said, “It's the girl recommended by the Third Prince.

She cured the Empress Dowager's ear disease.”

“Is it that medical woman?” Imperial Physician Li asked.

In the Great Zhou, women who practiced medicine were called medical women. They could not be called physicians.

Xiao Zhonghua and the others called Su Xiaoxiao Physician Su more or less because they had some friendship. However, as the medical authority of the Great Zhou, the imperial physicians would never recognize her.

Imperial Physician Zhu said, “Yes, it's her.”

“How… how is this possible?” Another imperial physician surnamed Wan muttered.

He was not the only one who thought so. All the men in the room felt that it was unbelievable.

Even a large group of legitimate imperial physicians could not find the problem with the Empress Dowager. Yet a little physician girl from the commoners easily cured the Empress Dowager the moment she arrived!

Imperial Physician Zhang said, “It's true! Even f you don't believe me, you have to believe Old Zhu. If you don't even believe Old Zhu's words, you can go to the Yongshou Palace to take a look yourself!”

Imperial Physician Li asked, “That doctor girl… what's her background? Chief Physician Hu, is that a doctor of your Benevolence Hall? Did you recommend her to the Third Prince?”

It was not a secret that Hu Hui was close to the Third Prince.

Imperial Physician Wan teased, “Are you stupid? If it was from the Benevolence

Hall, why didn't he recommend her himself? Must he go through the Third

Prince?”

Hu Jiusheng frowned. His Benevolence Hall had medical women who were mainly in charge of delivering babies and some women's hidden gynecological illnesses. With his status, it was impossible for him to recommend them to the princes of a country.

In addition, his daughter, Hu Biyun, knew a little about medicine.

“If it's not from Benevolence Hall, then what's her background?” Imperial

Physician Li asked for the second time. He was most concerned about this.

Imperial Physician Zhu thought for a moment and said, “1 heard that the people from Yongshou Palace call her Miss Qin in private, but the Third Prince's attendant calls her Physician Su.”

Everyone was stunned.

Imperial Physician Zhu continued, “Oh, right, she seems to have opened a medical center in the capital. It's next door to the Benevolence Hall.”

He had also heard about it from the Third Prince's attendant and the palace maids.

Hu Jiusheng frowned. “You mean the Number One Hall?”

Hu Jiusheng knew about the Number One Hall. His biological brother had managed the Benevolence Hall for many years. This was the first time he had failed at the hands of a peer and had even failed several times.

“What's the background of the Number One Hall?” Imperial Physician Li wanted to get to the bottom of her background.

Imperial Physician Zhu was not sure about more.

Imperial Physician Hu called a medicine boy to inquire.

It was not a secret. It was not difficult to ask.

The medicine boy said, “Her father is Su Cheng, the biological son of the old Protector Duke. She acknowledged a physician as her master in town. His surname is Fu.”

Fu…

Hu Jiusheng's heart skipped a beat.

On the other side, Emperor Jing Xuan and the Empress returned to the Empress Dowager's bedroom after changing their clothes.

“Your Majesty, Physician Su is Jingning's classmate. If she can't treat Mother's illness, I hope Your Majesty can be lenient to her on account of her young age.”

The Empress had never asked for anything from Emperor Jing Xuan. If not for Princess Jingning begging her, the Empress would not have asked.

Speaking of which, Princess Jingning followed the Empress's personality and did not like to beg.

It was rare for her to beg, so the Empress agreed.

Emperor Jing Xuan said solemnly, “This concerns Mother's phoenix body. I can't be lenient just because I want to. If that's the case, will I have to agree to anyone in the world who wants to treat the Empress Dowager in the future? Moreover, I can't punish them if they're not capable of curing? Hmph, for overestimating themselves, they have to pay the price for their actions.” As soon as he finished speaking, Emperor Jing Xuan paused.

The Empress Dowager, who was originally tortured by the illness, was sitting quietly on the phoenix bed, with Princess Jingning carefully serving dinner.

It was a bowl of red date barley porridge. The red dates were picked out, leaving a hint of sweetness in the porridge.

A little fat girl sat at the side and was searching for something in the medicine box.

The palace servants felt as if they had been pardoned. There was no longer any fear on their faces.

Emperor Jing Xuan suddenly felt his face hurt!

Chapter 401

Emperor Jing Xuan took a deep look at Su Xiaoxiao, who was looking for medicine. He strode towards the Empress Dowager. “Mother.”

The Empress Dowager ate the porridge indifferently.

Emperor Jing Xuan felt a little embarrassed, but he had gotten used to it over the years.

On the other hand, Princess Jing Ning bowed. “Father.” She also bowed to the Empress behind him. “Mother.” The Empress Dowager glared at Princess Jingning.

Princess Jingning quietly continued to feed the porridge.

Eunuch Fu quietly approached Emperor Jing Xuan and reported softly, “The Empress Dowager can hear. She won't feel dizzy anymore and can eat.” Emperor Jing Xuan had mixed feelings.

On the one hand, he hoped that the Empress Dowager could be cured, but on the other hand, he did not want the person who treated her to be this girl.

After all—

“After all, your father agreed so readily. It's not that he trusts her or thinks highly of Xiao Zhonghua. It's because if she can't be treated, your father can punish her with the death penalty and use her life to coerce Su Cheng to hand over his military power.”

After Emperor Jing Xuan left, the Empress whispered to Princess Jingning.

Princess Jing Ning agreed.

The Empress looked at Su Xiaoxiao, who was checking on the Empress Dowager behind the screen. “This girl's medical skills are surprising.”

Princess Jingning puffed out her chest proudly.

She said, “Mother, go back to Kunning Palace. I'll accompany Grandmother tonight.”

The Empress knew that she was accompanying her classmate, so she did not expose her. She nodded and left with the palace maids.

Halfway through, a young eunuch hurriedly welcomed her and reported, “Her Majesty, His Majesty… has gone to Qixiang Palace.”

Qixiang Palace was Consort Xian's residence. Emperor Jingxuan had not been there for a while.

The empress said indifferently, “Got it.”

Seeing that she was so calm, Auntie Mei couldn't help but worry for her. “Your Highness, it wasn't easy to make Consort Xian lose favor. We can't let her be doted on anymore! Think of a way to get His Majesty to come to Kunning Palace, right?”

The Empress said calmly, “Hasn't he come enough recently?”

The Empress Dowager lay on the bed and watched as Su Xiaoxiao wrapped a strange cloth around her arm. She even used her internal energy to make the cloth swell—

Actually, it was not internal strength. It was the sphygmomanometer that inflated the airbag.

The Empress Dowager didn't understand, so she thought it was internal energy.

Then, she saw the little girl stick a cold little thing into her clothes and touch her chest.

“You… don't be too impudent!”

She gritted her teeth.

Doctor Su said seriously, “This is a checkup. Don't move. Take a deep breath and inhale….

The Empress Dowager glared at her as she took a deep breath.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Breathe…

The Empress Dowager glared and exhaled.

After repeating this several times, Su Xiaoxiao put away the stethoscope.

It took the Empress Dowager a long time to calm down.

She said calmly, “Girl, you haven't told me what your relationship with Su

Huayin is.”

Su Xiaoxiao opened the medicine box and placed the stethoscope inside. “Oh, she's my grandmother.”

The Empress Dowager was slightly stunned. “Your father is Su Cheng? You're the girl who grew up among the commoners?”

“Yes.”

Unexpectedly, even the Empress Dowager had heard of her. Was she famous in the palace?

The Empress Dowager studied Su Xiaoxiao's round face. “You really look.. like your grandmother…”

Su Xiaoxiao asked, “Does the Empress Dowager know my grandmother?” The Empress Dowager did not continue.

She looked at Su Xiaoxiao with a complicated expression and said, “Leave. Don't come to treat me in the future. You won't be able to treat me.”

The Empress Dowager was exhausted and rested after eating the porridge. Princess Jingning walked into the room with Taozhi behind her.

“Are you hungry?” she said. “Go get something to eat.”

“Okay.” Su Xiaoxiao followed her to the side hall next door. Princess Jingning left Taozhi and the eunuch in charge to take care of the Empress Dowager.

The two of them sat down on stools. The young eunuch serving them opened the food box and brought out a few steaming dishes.

“You eat too, ” Su Xiaoxiao said to Princess Jingning.

“I've eaten,” Princess Jingning said.

After a pause, she said to the young eunuch, “Give me a bowl of soup.” The young eunuch scooped a bowl of black chicken soup for her.

Princess Jingning took a sip and asked Su Xiaoxiao, “How's my grandmother's condition?”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “To be honest, the situation isn't good.”

Princess Jing Ning wondered, “I thought she could already hear? She's no longer dizzy and vomiting.”

Su Xiaoxiao explained, “Ear stone disease is a sudden illness. What really is really making the Empress Dowager sick is irreversible aging and overthinking..”

Sorry for the inconvenience. Thank you very much!

Chapter 402

It was similar to depression in her previous life, but it was not completely the same.

Princess Jingning said, “The imperial physician also said that it's a mental illness.'

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Mental disease is one of the reasons. Physical discomfort will aggravate her heart disease to a certain extent.”

This was the first time Princess Jingning had heard such a thing. “In that case, can my grandmother still be saved?”

Su Xiaoxiao nodded. “I need to see her medical history and case before making a detailed treatment plan.”

Princess Jingning said, “That's not difficult. The Imperial Hospital has records.”

Su Xiaoxiao paused and said calmly, “In addition, I hope you can tell me the reason for the Empress Dowager's heartache if it's convenient.”

Princess Jingning did not suspect anything and said helplessly, “In a few days, it will be the anniversary of Prince Nanyang's death. Every year, around April, the Empress Dowager will fall ill. Her condition seems to be the most serious this year. Actually, as long as she survives April, she will feel better.”

Prince Nanyang's entire family was destroyed in April. When the news returned to the capital, the cries in the Yongshou Palace rang for the entire night.

The Empress Dowager had not seen Emperor Jing Xuan for an entire year. The first time the mother and son met the next year, the Empress Dowager slapped Emperor Jing Xuan hard.

Emperor Jing Xuan wanted to announce the crime of the Prince of Nanyang's rebellion to the world, but the Empress Dowager threatened him with death.

“You've already killed your brother, but you still don't think it's enough. You still want to leave behind eternal infamy and let him be despised by later generations! Why don't you kill me too!”

The news of Prince Nanyang's rebellion was hidden just like that.

The world was so big. There were many people who knew and even more commoners who did not know.

At first, there were still people asking around. As time passed, no one paid attention to the truth about Prince Nanyang's family.

Only the Empress Dowager would forever remember the pain of losing her son and grandchildren.

Su Xiaoxiao muttered thoughtfully, “Prince Nanyang's Mansion…”

Prince Nanyang's Mansion had a young princess.

The imperial physicians packed their things and left the palace. Hu Jiusheng also sat in the carriage back to the residence with a dark expression. “Wait.” Halfway there, he called out to the coachman. “Go to Benevolence Hall.”

The coachman asked, “Master, which Benevolence Hall?”

Their Benevolence Hall had opened a few branches in the capital.

“At Scholar Street,” Hu Jiusheng said.

Half an hour later, the carriage stopped at the entrance of the Benevolence Hall. The coachman brought over a footstool, and Hu Jiusheng alighted from the carriage expressionlessly.

Hu Biyun was checking the herbs in the storeroom. When she heard that her father was coming, she quickly put down her work and went to the accountant on the second floor.

“It's so late. Why is Big Brother here?”

Second Master Hu gave up his chair and respectfully made a pot of tea for Hu Jiusheng.

Hu Jiusheng could not sleep after drinking tea at night.

“Dad.” Hu Biyun walked in.

Hu Jiusheng nodded.

Manager Wu looked at the three of them and smiled. “I'll go downstairs to help.”

Only the Hu family was left in the room. Hu Biyun said, “Dad, are you here to get the herbs? Do you need any rare herbs for the Empress Dowager's illness?” Hu Jiusheng frowned and said nothing.

Hu Biyun and Second Master Hu gradually realized that something was wrong.

Second Master Hu asked, “Brother, what happened?”

Hu Jiusheng did not answer him. Instead, he asked, “Is there a physician with the surname Su next door? Someone from the Protectorate?” Hu Biyun frowned and said, “Dad, why are you suddenly asking about her?”

Hu Jiusheng looked at his daughter. “Do you know her?”

“A classmate from the palace,” Hu Biyun said indifferently.

She hated Su Xiaoxiao to the core and didn't want to mention her at all.

Hu Jiusheng asked, “Then do you know that she knows medicine?”

Not only did she know, but she had also been played by her.

Hu Biyun didn't mention it. It was embarrassing.

Hu Biyun said, “The Qin family opened the Number One Hall next door for her.”

In Hu Biyun's opinion, it was impossible for Su Xiaoxiao to take out such a large sum of money herself. Qin Canglan must have given her money for this.

Hu Jiusheng said, “When I was downstairs just now, I saw that there were more patients next door than in Benevolence Hall.”

Second Master Hu said awkwardly, “Brother, don't be deceived by them. They're all shills. Not many of them are real patients.”

Hu Jiusheng said calmly, “Is that so?”

Second Master Hu said, “Of course! Our Benevolence Hall is the largest medical center in the capital. Big Brother, you're the Court Commissioner of the Imperial Hospital. Which medical center can continue operating next door to us? No matter how much they buy, it's useless. As time passes, their half-baked medical skills won't be able to fool anyone!”

Hu Jiusheng looked at him coldly. “You mean… the medical skills that cured the Empress Dowager's ear disease… are half-baked medical skills?”

Second Master Hu was shocked.

Hu Biyun turned pale. “Father… they… entered the palace to treat the Empress Dowager?”

Hu Jiusheng said, “It's not them. It's that little doctor girl.”

Hu Biyun clenched her fists. “Su Daya is just a disciple of a town doctor. What
right does she have to treat the Empress Dowager?”

Yes, what right did she have? But she had treated and cured the Empress Dowager.

Hu Jiusheng was not here to publicize Su Xiaoxiao's glorious deeds.

He asked, “I heard that her master's surname is Fu. What's his name?”

“Fu… I'm really not sure about that.” Second Master Hu scratched his head and glanced down the window. “Brother, it's him!”

Physician Fu went to the cloth shop opposite to exchange silver for some copper coins and was walking back.

As if sensing an unfamiliar gaze, he raised his head and glanced at the second floor of the Benevolence Hall.

Hu Jiusheng also happened to come to the window.

Their eyes met.

Hu Jiusheng's mind suddenly buzzed.

Fu Sheng!

Imperial Physician Fu's biological son!

Was that girl his disciple?

“Did you make a mistake?” Hu Jiusheng definitely did not believe that Fu Sheng could teach such an outstanding disciple, let alone that Fu Sheng had the guts to return to the capital.

Second Master Hu said, “There's no mistake. He's that girl's master.”

Hu Jiusheng clenched his fists tightly.

How was this possible?

If he could not treat the Empress Dowager, what right did Fu Sheng's disciple have?

Fu Sheng's medical skills were clearly inferior to his!

It seemed that that girl had cured the Empress Dowager's ear stone disease by chance!

Sorry for the inconvenience. Thank you very much!

Chapter 403

When Su Xiaoxiao returned home, it was already late.

The three little fellows were actually still awake.

Dahu was catching crickets for Xiaohu, and Erhu was squatting by the basin soaking his small stones.

Su Ergou was recuperating, but he fell asleep in his room.

Dinner was cooked by Su Cheng. It was already disgusting, but he made too much all of a sudden. At this moment, Qin Canglan was sitting in the kitchen eating sweet potatoes that the family could not finish.

“Dahu, Erhu, Xiaohu.”

Su Xiaoxiao closed the courtyard door and greeted the three little fellows. Dahu caught a cricket and pounced over. “Mother! Look at the cricket I caught!”

Su Xiaoxiao looked at the big and fierce cricket and smiled. “Dahu is so powerful.”

“Xiaohu is also powerful!” Xiaohu was not to be outdone. He walked over with a jar of crickets. “Look! There's a lot!”

“I caught them!” Dahu said. Xiaohu said, “You gave them to Xiaohu. They're Xiaohu's!”

He was quite unreasonable.

Erhu ran over. “Mother!”

The three little tiger heads rubbed against her arms, making her heart soften.

Su Xiaoxiao touched their heads and bent down to lift Dahu's pants to look at his injuries.

The wound was healing well. It was already scabbed over.

“Does it hurt today?” Su Xiaoxiao asked.

Dahu shook his head.

Children were not as sensitive to pain as adults. When they went crazy, they forgot everything.

Su Xiaoxiao went to see Su Ergou again.

During the day, Physician Fu came to change Su Ergou's dressing and bandaged it extremely well.

“I can't eat anymore.”

“You're so big. Why can't you even eat sweet potatoes?”

Qin Canglan and Su Cheng's conversation came from the kitchen.

Qin Canglan sat on the small stool like a tall bear with a black thing in his bear paw. His expression was a little indescribable.

An hour ago, he said that there were only two sweet potatoes left…

“Dad.” Su Xiaoxiao entered the kitchen.

Su Cheng's eyes lit up as he put down the spatula. “Daughter! You're back! Have you eaten dinner? Are you hungry?” “I've eaten,” Su Xiaoxiao said. Qin Canglan also smiled. “Daya!”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Grandpa.”

Qin Canglan staggered and fell forward. The black sweet potato fell out of his hand. He hurriedly grabbed it. The disobedient sweet potato jumped a few times in his hand, causing him to almost flip the stove.

“W-What did you just call me?”

Qin Canglan, who had grabbed the sweet potato, looked at Su Xiaoxiao in disbelief.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Grandpa.”

Qin Canglan's aura instantly reached 2.8 meters!

His granddaughter called him grandfather!

He was a grandfather!

Although it was not Su Xiaoxiao's first time calling him grandfather. Oin Canglan was not a fool. How could he not tell that Su Xiaoxiao was just putting on a show when she called him grandfather in the Duke's Estate?

This time, she was sincere!

Qin Canglan couldn't stop smiling. If not for a pair of ears blocking the way, the corners of his mouth would have reached the back of his head.

Su Cheng pursed his lips.

Thinking of something, Qin Canglan said, “By the way, Daya, I heard that you entered the palace to treat someone. Were you treating the Empress Dowager?”

Su Xiaoxiao nodded. “It's her.”

Qin Canglan was silent for a moment before suddenly sighing. “Back then, your grandmother… was friends with her. The two of them had a good relationship. Unfortunately… Sigh, fate makes fools of people. They broke up in the end.”

Su Xiaoxiao didn't understand. “Break up?”

Qin Canglan sighed. “She hoped to support her eldest son, Prince Nanyang, to inherit the throne, so she even looked for your grandmother. However, our Qin and Su families supported her second son, Prince Ruyang.”

“I see.” Su Xiaoxiao continued, “Can I ask why the Qin and Su families didn't support Prince Nanyang?”

“It's the late emperor's decree.” Qin Canglan did not think that his granddaughter should not ask this. “Before his death, the late emperor asked someone to give a secret decree to me and the Marquis of Zhenbei at the distant border to appoint Prince Ruyang as the new emperor.” Su Xiaoxiao was deep in thought.

At Yongshou Palace, the Empress Dowager slowly woke up.

The eunuch in charge hurriedly bowed and asked softly, “Empress Dowager, are you awake?”

The Empress Dowager glanced at Princess Jingning, who was lying by the bed, and waved at the eunuch in charge.

The eunuch in charge understood and lowered his voice. “The princess has been guarding your bed. She just fell asleep.” The Empress Dowager raised her hand.

The eunuch in charge helped her slowly sit up.

“What about the child?” the Empress Dowager asked.

“Did you say… Physician Su?” The eunuch in charge brought a pillow and placed it behind the Empress Dowager's back. He poured a glass of warm water and said, “She just left.”

The Empress Dowager leaned against the thick pillow and took the teacup. She took a sip and sighed. “She really looks like Huayin.”

The eunuch in charge smiled and said, “I entered the palace late and have never seen the old Madam. However, looking at Physician Su's physiognomy, she seems to be more blessed than other young ladies.” The Empress Dowager handed him the teacup. “Just say that she's fat.”

“Ahem.” The eunuch in charge was embarrassed.

The Empress Dowager paused and said, “She's much thinner than Huayin when she was young.”

The eunuch in charge choked.

How fat was the old Duchess when she was young…

The Empress Dowager looked at the cabinet on the dressing table. The eunuch in charge understood and immediately went forward. He opened the cabinet door and took out an exquisite painting box.

He brought the drawing box to the Empress Dowager.

The Empress Dowager slowly opened the lid of the box and took out a scroll.

The eunuch in charge placed the box away and turned the oil lamp brighter.

The Empress Dowager carefully unfolded the painting.

The painting was a beautiful pavilion with four peerless women sitting in it.

The woman in purple played the zither, the woman in white raised her chess piece, and the woman in red played with the red tassel spear. She was valiant and heroic. Only a chubby little girl in blue at the side crossed her legs and leisurely ate a big drumstick.

The eunuch in charge secretly took a look.

The purple-clothed woman playing the zither must be the Empress Dowager. The Empress Dowager was good at playing the zither, and Princess Jingning took after her.

That fat girl must be the old Madam Su Huayin.

Physician Su was indeed like her.

As for the other two women who played chess and wielded red tassel spears… the eunuch could not guess for a moment.

He had been by the Empress Dowager's side for ten years. In these ten years, he had never seen the Empress Dowager get too close to any women.

In short, the people in the portrait had either passed away, such as the old Madam Su Huayin, or they had distanced themselves from the Empress Dowager.

The Empress Dowager's dry and wrinkled hand brushed across the person in the portrait inch by inch.

Things had changed, and there was no going back.

At dawn, Su Xiaoxiao woke up early.

Dahu also got up and did the horse stance in the courtyard.

The little guy had been very hardworking recently.

Su Xiaoxiao walked over and bent down to give Dahu a reward kiss.

Dahu's face turned red.

“Haha!”

Su Xiaoxiao couldn't help but laugh.

Children were so fun.

On the other side, Hu Jiusheng also woke up early and went straight to the Imperial Hospital.

The imperial physicians had also arrived.

Everyone bowed to him.

Hu Jiusheng asked, “At Yongshou Palace… Is Physician Su still treating the Empress Dowager?

Imperial Physician Zhang was the first to arrive and told him the news he had heard. “No, Physician Su left the palace last night.”

Imperial Physician Li said unhappily, “The Empress Dowager is so seriously ill, but she left just like that? How ridiculous!”

Announcement: we are moving Boxnovel.com to Bronovel.com. Please bookmark Our new Site. Sorry for the inconvenience. Thank you very much!

Chapter 404

Imperial Physician Wan chuckled and said, “She's a little girl who grew up among the commoners. Do you expect her to be like an imperial physician?” Imperial Physician Li said unhappily, “Is she coming or not? If she's not coming, tell me. Should we continue to go to the Yongshou Palace to ask for a safe pulse?”

Everyone looked at Hu Jiusheng.

Hu Jiusheng sat down in his seat and flipped open a medical table. He said seriously, “Of course, we have to ask for the Empress Dowager's pulse. Everyone, don't let your guard down. The Empress Dowager's illness still needs to be treated by our Imperial Hospital. Ear stone disease is just an urgent illness that suddenly appeared in the Empress Dowager, but what really made the Empress Dowager lie in bed is her old illness. This is the most important thing. ”

Imperial Physician Wan hurriedly echoed, “The Court Commissioner is right.

That girl only treated her ear stones. The Empress Dowager is still bedridden… I don't see anyone from the Yongshou Palace coming to get medicine… That girl is most likely helpless against the Empress Dowager's illness, right?”

Another imperial physician said, “That's right. Is she only good at ear stones?

Yet another imperial physician said, “In my opinion, it was a coincidence, right?”

Everyone was talking at once. In the end, they didn't believe that Su Xiaoxiao had treated the Empress Dowager with her exquisite medical skills.

“It's been so long, but I haven't heard of her entering the palace. She probably won't come, right?”

“She can't treat it. Of course, she won't come and embarrass herself!”

“That… I heard it was the Empress Dowager's idea.”

“What do you mean?”

“The Empress Dowager said that Physician Su can't treat her illness and asked her not to come.”

“The Empress Dowager didn't say such things to our Imperial Hospital, right? Even the Empress Dowager can tell that her medical skills aren't exquisite! She just happened to stumble onto a cure and doesn't have any medical skills!”

“Ahem!”

Imperial Physician Zhu coughed heavily.

“What's wrong, Old Zhu…” Imperial Physician Zhang looked in the direction Imperial Physician Zhu was pointing and choked.

It was true that one could not talk about people during the day and ghosts at night. Why did this girl appear just as he was talking about this girl? “How long has she been here?” Imperial Physician Zhang covered his mouth and asked.

Imperial Physician Zhu gritted his teeth and said, “It's been quite a while. She's been standing there since you said that she stumbled onto a cure.”

Imperial Physician Zhang instantly blushed. “Why didn't you say so earlier?”

Imperial Physician Zhu continued to say with stiff lips, “I gave you a look. All of you were blind. What can I do?”

They were all qualified imperial physicians. Putting aside their medical skills, it was really awkward to gossip behind someone's back. Su Xiaoxiao smiled calmly. “Good morning, imperial physicians.”

Everyone was embarrassed. “Morning, morning.”

Su Xiaoxiao smiled. “I made some medicinal cuisine this morning. I came late and made everyone anxious.”

Imperial Physician Zhang gave a fake smile. “No, no. Doctor Su, are you here to get medicine?

Su Xiaoxiao said, “I'm here to take the Empress Dowager's medical case and ask everyone about the Empress Dowager's medical history.”

Imperial Physician Zhang turned to look at Hu Jiusheng.

He was the current Court Commissioner. He had the final say in this matter.

Hu Jiusheng said indifferently, “Can't you diagnose what illness the Empress Dowager has? Do you still need to see our medical case? Besides, can you understand it?”

He had heard from Bi Yun that this girl's homework in the palace was a mess. She could not even write a few words.

“If she can't understand it, I'll read it for her!”

Princess Jingning walked in with a dignified expression.

Hu Jiushengs expression changed. He hurriedly stood up and bowed respectfully. “Greetings, Princess Jingning!”

The others also cupped their hands and bowed. “Greetings, Princess Jingning!” Princess Jingning glanced at Hu Jiusheng indifferently. “The medical case.”

Hu Jiusheng frowned and braced himself to find the Empress Dowager's medical case. He handed it to Princess Jingning.

Princess Jingning said in a tone, “Give it to Physician Su.”

Hu Jiusheng gritted his teeth and brought the medical case to Su Xiaoxiao.

Su Xiaoxiao smiled. “Some people don't have high medical skills and are quite arrogant.”

Hu Jiusheng's face darkened.

After the two of them left, the Imperial Physician Court fell silent for a long time. No one dared to say anything.

Everyone was not stupid. They could tell that the girl was giving Court

Commissioner Hu an opening gambit just now and establishing a superior aura over him.

When she said that “some people's medical skills are not high and they're quite arrogant”, she was clearly mocking Court Commissioner Hu. “Court Commissioner Hu, does she have a grudge against you?”

Imperial Physician Li couldn't help but speak.

Hu Jiusheng said coldly, “I don't know her at all. How can there be a grudge? She doesn't take the entire imperial hospital seriously!”

Everyone thought about it and felt that it made sense.

Hu Jiusheng said seriously, “The ignorant child is young and frivolous. Don't take it to heart. We should think about how to treat the Empress Dowager's illness.”

“That's right. The Empress Dowager still depends on us in regard to her illness.”

“She doesn't even know how to take a pulse and has to look through our medical cases. Why would His Majesty let such a quack treat the Empress Dowager?”

Imperial Physician Wan muttered, “I heard… that she was recommended by the Third Prince.”

Imperial Physician Li asked, “Why did His Highness recommend her?”

Imperial Physician Wan said, “Qin Jiang's daughter is going to be the Eldest Prince's secondary consort.”

Everyone was first shocked, then came to a realization.

The Qin family and the Third Prince were engaged. The original Third Princess

Consort was Qin Yanran. Now that Qin Yanran had already agreed to be the Eldest Prince's secondary consort, who else could marry into the Third Prince's residence other than the girl who grew up among the commoners?

The Third Prince was paving the way for the future Princess Consort…

Unfortunately, she could not treat the Empress Dowager at all.

At Yongshou Palace, the Empress Dowager saw Su Xiaoxiao again.

The Empress Dowager frowned. “Didn't I tell you not to come?”

Su Xiaoxiao opened the medicine box and took out a stethoscope and a blood pressure gauge. “Did the Empress Dowager sleep well last night?”

The Empress Dowager turned her face away and ignored her.

The eunuch in charge coughed lightly and said, “She slept for six hours. It's better than a few days ago.”

The Empress Dowager glared at the eunuch in charge.

The eunuch in charge shrank his neck and subconsciously leaned toward Princess Jingning.

Princess Jingning said, “Grandmother, you look much better today.”

The Empress Dowager said calmly, “Stop bewitching me.”

Princess Jingning said helplessly, “Alright, I look much better.”

The Empress Dowager glanced at her.

Princess Jingning did not wear a veil in Yong Shou Palace.

If one didn't look, they wouldn't know. Upon closer inspection, one would realize that Princess Jing Ning's complexion had changed greatly.

The acne on her face had disappeared, leaving no acne marks. Her skin had become delicate and smooth, and her facial features were still ordinary, but they were much more pleasing to the eye.

Princess Jingning said softly, “I used Doctor Su's medicine to treat my face.

Grandmother, you've seen Doctor Su's medical skills. Let her treat you.”

The Empress Dowager said coldly, “I said that I won't be treated!”

Su Xiaoxiao said to Princess Jingning, “Princess, can I treat the Empress Dowager alone?”

Princess Jingning looked at Su Xiaoxiao and then at the Empress Dowager.

This did not make sense.

However, since the little girl made such a request, she must have her own reasons.

In the end, Princess Jingning chose to trust Su Xiaoxiao.

“Eunuch Cheng, I made some tonic soup for the Empress Dowager. Follow me to get it.”

“Yes!”

The eunuch in charge slipped away extremely quickly, afraid that he would be retained by the Empress Dowager if he was a second slower.

The Empress Dowager said sternly, “Girl, do you want to use force on me like yesterday? Believe it or not, I'll really punish you with the death penalty!”

Su Xiaoxiao gently placed the medicine box on the table and slowly opened it.

As she took out the stethoscope, she said calmly, “I want to tell the Empress Dowager a story.”

The Empress Dowager sneered. “Hmph, I don't want to hear it!”

Su Xiaoxiao continued, “Once, in an aristocratic family, there were brothers from the same mother. They were not the legitimate sons of their father. One was the eldest son of a concubine, and the other was the fourth son of the same concubine. They had many siblings at home, but they only had one family business. Their father was also very melancholic about who to leave it to.” The Empress Dowager paused.

“The biggest opponent was Father's legitimate son. They joined forces to pull him down. At this moment, a new problem arose. Who was more qualified to inherit the family business? The biological mother liked the eldest son, but the father liked the fourth son. In the end, the fourth son won and chased the eldest brother out of the family. The eldest brother was indignant and made a comeback a few years later. Unfortunately, not only did he fail to take back the family business, but he was almost wiped out by the fourth son.”

Su Xiaoxiao hung the stethoscope around her neck and sat down beside the Empress Dowager with a blood pressure gauge. “Can the Empress Dowager understand what it means?”

The Empress Dowager's pupils constricted.

Su Xiaoxiao put on her stethoscope.

The Empress Dowager's thoughts raced as she reached out and grabbed Su

Xiaoxiao's arm tightly. “You… what do you know!”

Su Xiaoxiao said unhurriedly, “I know a lot. For example, someone in the coffin lived.”

The Empress Dowager widened her eyes in disbelief.

She said with a trembling voice, “I… I don't believe you…

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Then pretend I didn't say anything.”

A conflict flashed across the Empress Dowager's eyes, and her body trembled slightly.

“If you dare to lie to me, I'll cut you into pieces!”

Sorry for the inconvenience. Thank you very much!

Chapter 405

“She's out, she's out!”

At the entrance of the Yongshou Palace, Imperial Physician Zhang hurriedly took a few steps back and turned around, pretending not to be peeping.

He had come with two other imperial physicians to ask for the Empress Dowager's pulse.

They knew it. How could treating the Empress Dowager be so smooth?

Even their Imperial Hospital had hit a wall everywhere. It was unknown how much bad luck they had with the Empress Dowager. This girl must have been chased out by the Empress Dowager!

“Physician Su, take care.”

The eunuch in charge sent her to the door.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Eunuch Cheng, please wait. Later, please send someone to the Number One Hall to get the medicine. I'll get someone to prepare the herbs. ”

The eunuch in charge smiled and said, “Thank you, Physician Su.”

Imperial Physician Zhang and the others looked at each other.

Did they hear wrongly?

The people from Yongshou Palace were going to the Number One Hall to get medicine?

Wait, didn't the Empress Dowager get all her medicine from the Imperial Pharmacy? How could she use medicine from outside?

No, that was not the point.

The point was that the empress dowager had actually agreed to take the medicine.

Everyone looked at Su Xiaoxiao in disbelief.

Su Xiaoxiao reminded him, “In addition, I made the medicinal cuisine myself. It's helpful to the Empress Dowager's condition.”

The eunuch in charge said amiably, “I will remind the Empress Dowager to eat.”

“How is it?” Princess Jingning walked forward and asked.

Su Xiaoxiao raised her eyebrows and said, “The Empress Dowager is very kind and cooperative!”

Princess Jingning muttered, “Are you sure we're referring to the same Empress Dowager?

News of Su Xiaoxiao treating the Empress Dowager spread like wildfire.

More and more patients came because of the reputation, and many of Benevolence Hall's business was snatched away.

Shopkeeper Wu stood at the door and looked out at the entrance of the Number One Hall. Manager Sun introduced Su Xiaoxiao to others in high spirits.

Shopkeeper Wu said angrily, “She hasn't been treated yet, but they really dare to say it! When did Eldest Master publicize for treating so many nobles?” This was the crux of the problem.

Hu Jiusheng was an imperial physician. His starting point in becoming famous was high. It was not a big deal to treat the nobles in the palace.

Su Xiaoxiao was different.

She was Qin Canglan's long-lost granddaughter. She had grown up among the commoners and had suffered a lot. Her starting point could not be lower.

If everyone's expectations for her were calculated from one to ten, she would at most be one.

However, she had achieved ten. This contrast would make one's jaw drop.

“It's not just the Empress Dowager. You know about the Marquis of Zhenbei, right? His illness was also treated by our boss. If you don't believe me, go and ask around. There's also the Third Prince and Young Marquis Jing of the Marquis Wuwei's Estate. Our boss has treated them all!”

Manager Sun already knew Su Xiaoxiao's background and was determined not to let go of any opportunity to make a name for the medical center.

He did not mention Princess Jingning. It was Su Xiaoxiao who instructed him.

Su Xiaoxiao didn't want Princess Jingning's appearance to become everyone's topic of conversation.

Second Master Hu was so angry that he stomped his feet. He glared at Shopkeeper Wu and said, “Think of something! If this continues, all the patients in our Benevolence Hall will really be snatched away!”

Manager Wu scratched his ears and cheeks. “Thats what I've been trying to do!”

Wei Ting came over to Pear Blossom Lane today.

He used to come at night, and it was rare for him to appear in the day.

The three little ones looked at him with unfamiliarity.

“Call me Dad,” he said.

Xiaohu placed his hands on his hips and stomped his feet. He said solemnly, “Do you still remember that you're our father? You don't do anything and don't return home. Mother was so busy! Is there anyone like you as a father?” The little guy spoke much more nimbly than before. Wei Ting said in amusement and anger, “I come at night. You were asleep.”

Xiaohu crossed his arms. “Hmph, I don't believe you!”

Wei Ting laughed and scratched Xiaohu's head. “I'm your father even if you don't believe me. Quick, call me father!”

Xiaohu raised his chin. “That's hard to say. If Mom doesn't want you anymore, Xiaohu can change fathers!”

Wei Ting was speechless.

When Su Xiaoxiao arrived home, Wei Ting was tidying up his clothes.

“There you are. Eh? Are you staying?”

If he didn't stay, his sons would have to change their father— Wei Ting said coldly, “You came to my room to sleep?”

Her hair and fragrance were on the pillow.

Before Su Xiaoxiao could speak, he said, “There's no need to miss me like this.”

Su Xiaoxiao muttered,” Why do I suddenly want to chase you out?”

When Wei Ting came over, Su Ergou was the happiest. He missed his brother-in-law very much.

Of course, there was another reason. Su Cheng was not around. Otherwise, he would probably be the happiest.

“Where's Dad?” Wei Ting asked.

“He went to the racecourse to practice martial arts,” Su Xiaoxiao said.

Qin Canglan did not relax his training of Su Cheng just because Su Cheng defeated Qin Jiang. On the contrary, he was even stricter and made Su Cheng work harder as if he was anxious to teach Su Cheng everything he had learned in his life.

“You went to the palace to treat the Empress Dowager?” Wei Ting asked. Su Xiaoxiao hummed. “Did you rush over in broad daylight because of this?”

Without waiting for Wei Ting to speak, she raised her eyebrows and said, “You don't have to be so worried about me.”

Wei Ting was speechless.

Wei Ting took a book and sat down by the window.

Su Xiaoxiao opened the medicine box, grabbed his bandaged right hand, and told him about the secret decree that the late emperor had given to Qin Canglan and the Old Marquis.

When Wei Ting heard this, he thought for a moment and said, “The previous emperor also gave my grandfather a secret decree back then to let him elect Prince Nanyang to the throne.”

“Two secret decrees…” Su Xiaoxiao touched her chin. “It was impossible for the late emperor to establish two new rulers at the same time. Which secret decree is real? ”

“Mother!”

Xiaohu ran in. “Does Sihu wants to eat candied hawthorn?”

Wei Ting asked, “Who is Sihu?” “Brother,” Xiaohu said. “It's been four months.”

Wei Ting's body trembled!

During the few days he was not at home, the little brats even had a younger brother!

“Sihu can't eat it,” Su Xiaoxiao said.

Xiaohu's eyes darted around. “Then, Dahu wants to eat candied hawthorn!”

Su Xiaoxiao couldn't help but ask, “Only Dahu wants to eat it?” Xiaohu thought for a moment. “Erhu wants to eat it too!”

Su Xiaoxiao teased him, “Then only Xiaohu doesn't want to eat it?”

Xiaohu blinked cutely. “But if Mother insists on buying it for Xiaohu, Xiaohu can eat it too.”

Su Xiaoxiao laughed.

He was a brat!

After changing Wei Ting's dressing, Su Xiaoxiao and Wei Ting went out to buy candied hawthorn for the three little fellows.

In order not to be recognized, Wei Ting wore a jade mask.

Even though this person's face was covered, he was still as cool as jade.

Su Xiaoxiao hesitated for a moment before putting on a veil.

Wei Ting looked at her unique chubby figure. “I don't think there's much point in you wearing a veil.”

The two of them spent half a tael of silver to buy six sticks of candied hawthorn.

“The price of sugar has increased again,” Su Xiaoxiao said. “In the past, it was 40 to 50 copper coins a stick.”

The two of them walked back.

Wei Ting said, “The battle in the southwest has started.”

Su Xiaoxiao was surprised. “Have they really fought?”

Wei Ting said calmly, “It's just a group of rebels. They've already been eliminated. It's just that the southwest is rich in sugar, and the price of sugar has been affected.”

Su Xiaoxiao nodded. “I see.”

Since ancient times, war had hurt the people.

Wei Ting continued, “Fortunately, it didn't affect the salt shipment in the southwest this time.”

Sugar was not a necessity for ordinary people. Salt was. If the price of salt rose, who knew what chaos it would bring.

Su Xiaoxiao listened attentively.

Suddenly, a carriage bumped into her!

Sorry for the inconvenience. Thank you very much!

Chapter 406

No sooner said than done, Wei Ting grabbed Su Xiaoxiao's wrist and pulled her to the other side.

The carriage sped away.

Wei Ting's eyes turned cold. He flew up and kicked the coachman off the horse!

At the same time, he held the reins with one hand and suddenly turned around, stopping the carriage.

A three-year-old child eating candied hawthorn on the street looked at the carriage parked half a step in front of him in a daze, confused.

The woman who had bought a thimble at the stall turned around and saw this scene. She was frightened out of her wits and hurriedly held on to her son.

The coachman who fell to the ground probably did not expect to be so unlucky. He got up and ran!

“Are you running off now?”

Su Xiaoxiao stomped the other party to the ground.

The other party screamed and spat out a mouthful of blood!

He begged for mercy in fear. “Miss, spare me! Miss, spare me—”

“You're riding a horse on the streets in broad daylight. Why? Are you trying to kill me for money?” After Su Xiaoxiao finished speaking, she realized something and frowned. “Wait, how do you know that I'm a girl?”

She had clearly ambushed him from behind just now. Unless he had eyes on the back of his head, he would definitely not be able to see if he was a man or a woman.

“I…” The man choked and stammered.

Su Xiaoxiao asked coldly, “You bumped into me on purpose, didn't you?”

The man's eyes flashed. “No… no, Miss… I… I didn't mean to… I couldn't pull the horse… Please be magnanimous… ah—

Su Xiaoxiao suddenly increased the strength of her foot, almost breaking his ribs.

“If you don't tell the truth, I'll trample you into a vegetable.”

The man gritted his teeth. “I didn't mean to… but Miss wants my life… Is there any law under the emperor's feet!”

Su Xiaoxiao sneered. “Talk to me about the law? Why don't you ask around who I am? I'm…

Halfway through her sentence, Su Xiaoxiao suddenly had an idea and a strange smile appeared on her lips.

“The accompanying maid of the Eldest Prince's new secondary consort! My

Master is the law!”

The man looked at Su Xiaoxiao in shock.

Su Xiaoxiao slapped his head. “What are you looking at!”

The man said to himself,” Look at you lying through your teeth!”

'l'ne man was aDout to speaK wnen su xlaoxlao slappea mm again, causing mm to see stars.

The commoners whispered.

“So you're from the Eldest Prince's residence. You're too much!”

“That's right. He's so arrogant and treats human lives like grass. He's really far inferior to the Second and Third Prince!”

“I didn't expect the Eldest Prince to be such a person…'

“Could it be an imposter?”

Wei Ting pretended to walk over and asked Su Xiaoxiao, “I've frightened you. His First Highness ordered me to send you back to the residence. Did anything happen to you?”

The surrounding commoners stared at Wei Ting.

“Ah, it's the guard of the Eldest Prince's residence…”

“Did you see his skills just now? Other than the royal guards, who else can be so powerful?”

“Yes, yes…”

Su Xiaoxiao said arrogantly, “He dirtied all the candied hawthorn I bought for my Miss. If I don't teach him a lesson, my Miss will probably be bullied when she enters the manor in the future! Kill him!”

“Yes!”

Wei Ting pulled the man into a nearby alley.

Some commoners planned to follow and watch. Su Xiaoxiao crossed her arms and said casually, “Why? Do you want to be punished too?”

Everyone dispersed in fear.

There were only the three of them left in the alley.

Su Xiaoxiao stepped on his chest and asked domineeringly, “Tell me! Who instructed you to do it?!”

The man looked at Su Xiaoxiao in pain. Su Xiaoxiao crossed her arms. “You're not going to say it, right?”

She slowly increased her strength.

The man's veins were bulging. Take your foot away… You're stepping on me until I can't breathe… What can I say…

The man used all his strength to say two words.

Su Xiaoxiao frowned. “It's Qin? Qin what? Qin Yanran?”

The only person with the surname Qin who had a grudge against him was Qin Jiang. Qin Jiang and Qin Yun were seriously injured and could not cause trouble for the time being. In that case, only Qin Yanran was left.

Su Xiaoxiao's eyes turned cold as she stuffed the candied hawthorn into Wei

Ting's hand. “Go home first. I'll settle it myself.”

At Baofang House, a jewelry shop, Qin Yanran was choosing jewelry with the maidservants.

“His First Highness is so good to you. He specially reserved the entire Baofang House for you to choose from.”

“Our Miss is the number one talent in the capital. She should have been the main consort. It's His Highness's blessing to be able to marry our Miss as his secondary consort!”

Qin Yanran said, “Qiao'er, you can't say this casually. If anyone hears it, you'll be beheaded.'

“Yes,” Qiao'er agreed.

Xiao Duye's main concubine was an elite. Unfortunately, her looks and talent were slightly inferior and she was not favored.

Qiao'er smiled and said, “On the day you pass through the door, Miss will definitely stun everyone below the hall!”

The corners of Qin Yanran's lips curled up as she said, “I want all of these. Wrap them up.”

The three of them left Baofang House and were about to get into the carriage when a chubby hand suddenly reached over from behind and grabbed the back of Qin Yanran's neck, dragging her into another carriage.

“Miss!”

The two maidservants' expressions changed.

The two of them got into their carriage and chased after her, but they only caught an empty carriage. Their young lady had long disappeared. In the quiet alley, Su Xiaoxiao mercilessly threw Qin Yanran to the ground. Qin Yanran cried out in pain, “Who are you?”

Su Xiaoxiao threw a sack over her and picked up the stick in her hand.

Chaos, Staff, Shadowless!

The snowflake-like rod landed, and Qin Yanran was beaten until she doubted her life!

In the alley, the man finally caught his breath and finished what he had not been able to say.

“Yes, this…”

He wanted to say, “Here's what happened.” Unfortunately, he had only said two words before the other party left.

Wei Ting found Su Xiaoxiao.

Su Xiaoxiao raised her stick. “What?”

Wei Ting coughed lightly. “I think you beat up the wrong person…” Su Xiaoxiao was speechless.

Qin Yanran suffered an undeserved calamity and was beaten up.

When the two maidservants found her, she was already unrecognizable and had become a pig head.

They had agreed to stun His Highness on their wedding night.

Now, there was probably only shock left…

On the way back, Su Xiaoxiao tidied her clothes and said seriously, “I'm a lady!

It was a special situation!”

Wei Ting said calmly, “Oh, did you have fun beating her up?

“I did…” Su Xiaoxiao stopped in time and glared at him. She snorted proudly. “I said it was a special situation!”

Wei Ting suppressed the corners of his lips.

“So it was Benevolence Hall?” Su Xiaoxiao asked.

Wei Ting said, “Yes, a shopkeeper surnamed Wu spent money to buy someone from the underworld.”

Su Xiaoxiao snorted. “But I'm already wearing a veil. How can he recognize

Wei Ting sized her up. “Even if you were covered in a sack, it seems it wouldn't affect others from recognizing you..”

Sorry for the inconvenience. Thank you very much!

Chapter 407

Su Xiaoxiao reached out and gestured for him to stop. “You don't have to interfere. I'll do this myself! A woman can't rely on a man!”

Heh, was she sure she didn't want to keep all the fun to herself?

Wei Ting casually took out a few banknotes. “Since women can't rely on men, the family expenses this time…”

Su Xiaoxiao took the banknote and said solemnly, “Look at you. You spend all the money you have. I have to save it for you!”

The two of them returned to Pear Blossom Lane first and gave the candied hawthorn to the three little ones.

“One for Dahu, one for Erhu, one for Xiaohu, one for Sihu, one for grandfather, and one for Uncle. Mother won't eat them.”

Su Xiaoxiao was on a diet and never touched candied hawthorn.

“Where's mine?” Wei Ting asked.

“There's no more,” Xiaohu said.

“Sihu won't eat it. Give it to me.” Wei Ting already knew that Sihu was that foal.

“Sihu, do you want to give it to Daddy?” Xiaohu turned to look at Wei Ting.

“Sihu said no.”

Wei Ting said, “It didn't say anything.”

Xiaohu said righteously, “Sihu said it, but you didn't hear him!”

“Little brat, you just want to take the two sticks of candied hawthorn for yourself, right?”

Wei Ting teased him and insisted on eating Sihu's stick of candied hawthorn. In the end, he successfully made Xiaohu cry.

Xiaohu lay on the ground with his butt raised high. He buried his face in his palms and cried.

“What's wrong? What's wrong?” Su Cheng hurriedly ran out.

Wei Ting said calmly, “Dad, don't worry about him. Let him cry.”

“How can that do?” Su Cheng said. “You have to take medicine if you cry. Medicine is very expensive.”

Wei Ting was speechless.

Wei Ting said, “Dad, Daya doesn't seem to be feeling well. Go take a look. I'll coax Xiaohu.”

Su Cheng hesitated for a moment. “Alright, don't let Xiao Hu cry on the ground! He'll catch a cold! He'll cough when he feels a chill!”

Wei Ting agreed. “Got it, Dad.”

Su Cheng went to Su Xiaoxiao's room.

Wei Ting looked at a crying little fellow with a faint smile, picked up a small cushion, and threw it beside him.

The ground was hard, and the back of his hand hurt.

Xiaohu thought for a moment, got up, lay on the mat, and continued to cry.

He was halfway through crying when he turned around.

Eh, there was no one in the courtyard!

He quickly picked up the cushion and brought it into the house. He lay beside Su Cheng and Su Xiaoxiao and continued to cry!

Su Cheng and Su Xiaoxiao were speechless.

Benevolence Hall.

Manager Wu paced around the accounting room.

A waiter hurried over. “Shopkeeper! ”

Manager Wu looked around and pulled him in. He closed the door and whispered, “How is it? Is that girl injured?”

Shopkeeper Wu's original intention was not to kill anyone. He was not so bold. His goal was to injure Su Xiaoxiao so that she could not continue to enter the palace to treat the empress dowager.

The shop assistant said, “I don't know. That guy is gone!”

Manager Wu was shocked. “What?”

The shop assistant said awkwardly, “I guess… could he have taken our money and run away?”

Manager Wu was so angry that he slapped his forehead. “How did you do it? The person you found is so unreliable!”

The shop assistant touched his head which was in pain from the slap and stammered, “I was just guessing… It might not have really failed… Perhaps…” Manager Wu looked at the chubby figure downstairs. “Everyone is here!”

Su Xiaoxiao entered the Number One Hall and asked Du Juan, who was helping her guests get medicine, “Is Manager Sun here?”

Du Juan pointed upstairs. “In the accounts room.”

Su Xiaoxiao thought for a moment. “Get Little Weizi to come up too.”

Du Juan said, “Alright, Boss!”

She was a little busy today. Not only did Du Juan have to get the herbs, but she also had to run errands for Su Xiaoxiao. She accidentally knocked over a bag of herbs.

Physician Fu happened to pass by and frowned. “Du Juan, herbs are very precious. You've already scattered the medicine for the third time!” Du Juan explained, “My… boss asked me to call Little Weizi…”

Physician Fu said, “But you can't be flustered.”

The patient's family urged, “Are you going to prepare the medicine? Du Juan hurriedly said, “I'll do it! I'm sorry! I'll get you another set!”

“Du Juan! I asked you to call Little Weizi, but you didn't?” Su Xiaoxiao's dissatisfied voice came from upstairs. Du Juan said aggrievedly, “I, I forgot! I'll go now!” “Hey! You haven't gotten my medicine yet!” “Mine too! We're all waiting!”

“We've waited so long. What's going on?”

Little Weizi went upstairs. A moment later, Little Weizi shouted downstairs, “Du Juan, make a pot of tea!”

Du Juan, who was extremely busy, was so anxious that her eyes turned red. “I'm coming!”

Du Juan was a medical assistant and a maidservant. She was busy. When she was making tea, she accidentally scalded her hand. When she brought it up, she was scolded by Manager Sun for being slow and could not compare to the 12-year-old Ying'er.

Du Juan felt wronged.

She sat alone on the threshold of the back alley and cried.

“Yo, isn't this Du Juan?

A servant from the Benevolence Hall walked over with a dustpan.

Du Juan quickly wiped her tears and sat up straight as if nothing had happened.

The servant smiled and sat down beside her. She said, “Don't be afraid. I'm not sent by Benevolence Hall. I've cleaned several shops. Are you short of people here?”

Du Juan sniffed and shook her head. Her voice was a little choked. “No, Sister-in-law Cao sweeps it every day. Occasionally, Ying'er and I help do something.”

The servant asked curiously, “Aren't you a medical assistant? Why are you still helping to clean?

Du Juan said, “When I'm too busy, I do more work.”

The maidservant's heart ached for her. “Sigh, the medical ladies of Benevolence Hall never do those dirty and tiring work. They only care about delivering babies and treating women. Eh? What happened to your hand?”

“Nothing?” Du Juan covered her hand with her sleeve.

The maidservant pulled Du Juan's hand over. “Aiyo, you're scalded? Why didn't you apply some ointment? The First Hall is a big medical center after all. You won't be stingy with some scald ointment, right? It'll be bad if there's a scar on a girl. You're so beautiful. You'll definitely be able to marry into a good family in the future.”

Du Juan said nothing.

“Just wait.”

The servant placed the dustpan down and entered Benevolence Hall. Not long after, she took out a box of scald cream. “Here, my nephew has used it before. It works.”

“Thanks,” Du Juan whispered.

The maidservant advised, “If you're not happy, go somewhere else to work.

You're good-looking and hardworking. Where can you find work?”

Du Juan lowered her head and said, “I'm a girl who has signed a death contract. I can't leave unless I can save enough money to redeem myself… But that's a lot of money… I probably won't be able to save it even if I work my entire life.” The servant's eyes flashed. “What if… someone is willing to redeem you?”

Du Juan wiped her tears. “Aunt Tong, stop joking. Who would be willing to redeem me?”

Aunt Tong patted her hand. “Actually, this isn't difficult.”

At the accountant's office.

Su Xiaoxiao scrabbled for walnuts in the jar.

Without Su MO around, the walnuts that others peeled did not look good.

She frowned and threw one into her mouth bitterly.

Creak—

The door was pushed open.

Little Weizi walked in.

“Did the fish take the bait?” Su Xiaoxiao asked. Little Weizi chuckled. “Don't worry, Boss!”

Su Xiaoxiao grabbed another walnut.

“BenevolenceHall, I originally planned to give you three months, but who asked you to court death? Then don't blame me for closing the net in advance!

Hohohoho!”

Manager Sun muttered, “You're really smiling sinisterly…”

Wei Ting stayed here tonight and bathed the three little ones.

The three little ones looked disgusted.

They wanted her mother to wash them.

Wei Ting said seriously, “You'll be three years old in two months. You're not children anymore. You can't let your mother bathe you again.”

Xiaohu exploded. “A three-year-old is still a baby!”

Dahu tilted his head. “You wanted your mother to bathe you at seven years old.”

Wei Ting asked, “Who said that?”

Dahu said, “Great-grandma.”

Wei Ting coughed lightly. “She's spouting nonsense. I didn't.”

Dahu continued to expose dirt. “You even peed on the bed once when you were four years old. I stopped wetting the bed when I was two years old!” Wei Ting gritted his teeth, “That's because I drank too much green bean soup!”

“Unfilial son… How much of your father's dark history did you dig up!”

No matter what, Wei Ting was now an adult.

His fists were hard, so he had the final say.

In the end, the three little ones, who were two years and ten months old, were still ruthlessly stripped of their right to have their mother bathe them. They turned into three soulless salted fish and allowed their father to put them around.

When Su Xiaoxiao arrived home, the three little ones were sitting cross-legged on the bed.

They looked like three small Maitreya Buddhas.

Su Xiaoxiao asked, “What's wrong?”

The three little ones pressed their palms together. “Amitabha.”

Su Xiaoxiao was speechless..

Sorry for the inconvenience. Thank you very much!

Chapter 408

After coaxing the three little fellows to sleep, Su Xiaoxiao went to the next room.

“Wei Ting, Dahu and the others are so strange today.”

Wei Ting said calmly, “What's strange? They've just grown up. They said that you don't have to bathe them in the future. They're big children.”

“Is that so?” Su Xiaoxiao looked at him skeptically. Didn't his conscience hurt from scheming against three-year-old children?

“How's the medical center?” Wei Ting immediately changed the topic.

Su Xiaoxiao sat down opposite him. “Is there anything I can't do? Just wait. There will definitely be a big show in at least three days!”

Su Cheng's voice came from the courtyard. “Daughter, we're almost out of lamp oil at home. I'll go out and buy some lamp oil!”

Su Xiaoxiao stood up and said, “Dad, I'll go buy it!”

Wei Ting indicated that he would go too. Su Cheng thought for a moment and let the couple go.

The lamp oil shop on Scholar Street was closed. The other lamp oil shop was a little far away.

Su Cheng had been training hard recently. Su Xiaoxiao was glad that she and Wei Ting had come out to buy it.

Halfway there, a carriage came up to them.

Perhaps remembering the accident just now, the two of them subconsciously looked at the carriage.

There was a masked woman sitting in the car.

Wei Ting was not interested in strange women, but Su Xiaoxiao took a few more glances.

“No way… She ran out again?”

“You know that person?” Wei Ting asked.

The carriage had already brushed past and turned into another street.

Su Xiaoxiao thought for a moment and didn't answer Wei Ting immediately.

Instead, she asked, “Do you know why Prince Nanyang rebelled back then?”

Wei Ting said, “To take back the throne.”

Su Xiaoxiao continued, “Then, have you… heard of the rumors about Prince Nanyang and the Grand Empress Dowager?”

Wei Ting said, “To take back the throne.”

“My master, Physician Fu, is Imperial Physician Fu's son. Back then, something happened to Imperial Physician Fu because he diagnosed a happy pulse in Zhaoyang Hall. ”

Wei Ting did not know about this.

Wei Ting frowned slightly. “Happy pulse? Prince Nanyang's flesh and blood?”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “If it's the Grand Empress Dowager's happy pulse, it can only be Prince Nanyang's.”

Wei Ting pondered for a moment. “Could the person in the carriage just now be the Grand Empress Dowager?”

Er… did he connect the dots so quickly?

How dare he make such a bold guess?

As expected of her husband!

The couple exchanged a look.

Wei Ting said, “Lamp oil…”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “I'll buy it next time!”

Wei Ting used his movement technique and chased after the carriage with Su Xiaoxiao.

The last time Bai Xihe said that she left the palace to look for her brother, Su Xiaoxiao was a little suspicious. However, she didn't pursue the matter in front of Princess Jingning.

This time, she could finally figure out who made her risk her life time and time again to leave the palace.

Wei Ting landed on a roof with Su Xiaoxiao. “They seem to have realized that they were followed and are taking a detour.”

Su Xiaoxiao bent down.

The two of them lay dormant on the roof for a long time. They drove southeast after feeling safe.

Wei Ting learned his lesson and followed from afar.

The carriage stopped in front of a house.

Bai Xihe alighted from the carriage wearing a cloak.

The courtyard door opened from inside, and Bai Xihe walked in.

However, at this moment, something unexpected happened.

Su Cheng had appeared!

Speaking of which, his appearance was also a coincidence.

There was originally only half a pot of lamp oil left at home. It was fine and should last until tomorrow morning, but he accidentally spilled it.

His daughter and son-in-law had not returned after so long. They had most likely gone gallivanting…

It was only right for the young couple to date more. It would be worrying if they didn't.

He instructed Su Ergou to keep an eye on the children and come out to buy lamp oil.

He took a shortcut and happened to bump into her.

Bai Xihe's two coachmen were the two guards he had knocked out last time.

The two of them secretly followed Bai Xihe and were taught a lesson as lechers.

This time, seeing the two of them appear with Bai Xihe, logically speaking, he should reconsider their relationship.

However, Su Cheng's thinking was different from ordinary people.

“I didn't teach you enough last time, but you came again! Madam Bai, don't be afraid!”

Su Cheng jumped up and threw a punch at the two of them!

These two were not Su Cheng's match, but someone was.

In the courtyard, a shadow flashed out with a powerful and terrifying aura and struck Su Cheng's face!

Bai Xihe immediately said, “Stop!”

It was too late.

The other party's technique was too fast and could not be stopped.

If this palm landed on Su Cheng, it would definitely break all the meridians in his body.

Wei Ting flew down and met the other party's attack with a palm!

The two guards vomited blood from the shockwaves.

Wei Ting immediately pulled Su Cheng back while the expert protected Bai Xihe with his body.

Su Cheng broke out in a cold sweat.

He looked at the guard who had vomited blood from the aftershock of the internal force and clicked his tongue. “Wow, so terrifying. Son-in-law, are you alright?”

Wei Ting shook his head. “I'm fine.”

The expert was about to attack Wei Ting again when Bai Xihe said coldly, “Biwu, stand down!”

The black-clothed expert silently retreated to Bai Xihe's side.

Bai Xihe looked at Wei Ting and then at Su Cheng as a complicated and surprised expression flashed across her eyes.

But soon, she calmed down.

She said calmly, “Son-in-law?”

Su Cheng introduced, “That's right, Madam Bai. He's my son-in-law. That man in black is your guard. It's a false alarm!”

Su Xiaoxiao held her forehead and sighed. This was not a false alarm. It was a large-scale exposure scene!

Fifteen minutes later, Su Xiaoxiao, Wei Ting, and Bai Xihe sat in the central room of this courtyard.

Su Cheng was not around. He had gone to the courtyard to spar with Bi Wu.

He was a little indignant.

.That's what happened. We got married in the countryside.” Su Xiaoxiao told him about her relationship with Wei Ting.

After all, at this point, if she said that she had nothing to do with Wei Ting, she would be treating Bai Xihe as a fool.

Bai Xihe paused. “So Consort Xian didn't make a false report in regard to Wei

Ting the other day.”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “It's not like you don't care about anything else in the harem.”

Bai Xihe said calmly, “If I really didn't care about anything outside, I would have died countless times.”

“True.

The palace was a ruthless place. Simple people could not survive.

The exception would be those with backing, such as Princess Hui An.

Su Xiaoxiao looked at her steadily. “What about you? What's your relationship with the owner of this house? That child is only 14 years old. It's impossible for him to be your brother.”

There was no need to worry that the other party would betray her.

There was a 14-year-old youth living here. He looked a little similar to Bai Xihe.

Bai Xihe was silent.

Su Xiaoxiao said seriously, “With all due respect, 15 years ago, Zhaoyang Hall had a good pulse. This child's age happened to match.”

Bai Xihe's pupils dilated.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “Grand Empress Dowager, was that child Prince Nanyang's back then?”

Bai Xihe clenched her fists under her wide sleeves.

She said.

“Whose is it?” Su Xiaoxiao asked.

A conflicted look flashed across Bai Xihe's eyes..

Sorry for the inconvenience. Thank you very much!

Chapter 409

“Emperor Jingxuan's, ” Bai Xihe said.

Su Xiaoxiao nodded and thought for a moment. She looked at Bai Xihe and said, “The happy pulse isn't yours, right?”

Bai Xihe was shocked again and looked at Su Xiaoxiao in a daze.

Su Xiaoxiao said, “I once thought that other than Prince Nanyang and Emperor

Jingxuan, there was no one else who had the guts to touch you. However, Emperor Jingxuan probably won't touch you, so if you're pregnant, it can only be Prince Nanyang's. On the other hand, if the child isn't Prince Nanyang's, the person who's pregnant definitely won't be you.”

Bai Xihe was surprised and Su Xiaoxiao sighed softly. “That's right. It's the child of my personal female official.”

Fifteen years ago, Emperor Jing Xuan was drunk and accidentally came to Zhaoyang Hall to visit Bai Xihe's female official.

Although the women in the entire palace belonged to the emperor, there were two places where the women could not be touched.

One was the Empress Dowager's Yongshou Palace and the other was the Grand Empress Dowager's Zhaoyang Hall.

If Emperor Jingxuan was a tyrant who did things his own way, it would naturally not matter. However, his persona was that of a wise ruler, so he could not commit such a foolish thing.

Therefore, Imperial Physician Fu had to die.

Bai Xihe did not die because she was the Grand Empress Dowager, the last fig leaf for the late emperor who was said to have plotted to snatch the throne from his nephew.

She had to live safely to stop the crowd.

As for that female official—

Bai Xihe said, “I once went out of the palace to recuperate for a year, hoping that she could secretly give birth to the child. Unfortunately, it was difficult to give birth. She died in childbirth with the baby.”

The female official was Bai Xihe's trusted aide. After entering the palace, she accompanied her. Their master-servant relationship was deep, and Bai Xihe sincerely hoped that the mother and son would be safe. Bai Xihe had even found a family to adopt the child.

In the end, she could not resist fate.

“Then this child…” Su Xiaoxiao was referring to the young man in the courtyard.

At this point, there was no need for Bai Xihe to hide it.

“My brother's flesh and blood. My brother was sentenced to exile. Before he left, he entrusted me to take good care of Yan Zhi. Not long ago, my brother contacted me through the Guo family. He escaped from the exile and hid his identity in Youzhou. He asked me to think of a way to send Yan Zhi and her son over to reunite with him. However, this child has been sick recently… The matter of leaving the capital has been delayed…

Su Xiaoxiao came to the next room.

A woman two years older than Bai Xihe was feeding the young man on the bed medicine.

The woman was the Yan Zhi that Bai Xihe was referring to.

She was older than Bai Xihe's brother by three years, and there were traces of time at the corners of his eyes.

“I'm a physician.” Su Xiaoxiao said, “Madam asked me to come over and take a look. ”

Yan Zhi's hand trembled, and the medicine spilled.

Su Xiaoxiao's gaze landed on Yan Zhi's face.

Yan Zhi lowered her head in fear.

The young man said seriously, “Don't blame my mother!” Su Xiaoxiao said, “I haven't said anything.”

The young man choked and lowered his head in embarrassment.

Fifteen minutes later, Su Xiaoxiao came over from the next room and said to Bai Xihe, “Yan Zhi doesn't want to leave. She tampered with his son's medicine and prolonged his illness.”

After a pause, she said, “Your nephew knows, but Yan Zhi doesn't know that he knows.”

Yan Zhi could not leave her stable life in the capital and did not want to rely on an exiled criminal.

The young man silently endured his mother poisoning him again and again.

This was Bai Xihe's family matter. How Bai Xihe wanted to deal with it was not something she and Wei Ting could interfere with.

Wei Ting did not say a word from the beginning to the end, like a towering tree that silently protected a certain little fat peacock.

In the courtyard, Su Cheng finally successfully knocked Bi Wu down with all kinds of shameless moves. He used his hands and feet to lock him down.

Bi Wu did not resist.

Of course, it was very likely that the other party could not be bothered to resist.

He was tired of playing with Su Cheng.

“Daughter!”

Su Cheng had the burden of a father. As soon as his fat daughter came out, he immediately let go of Bi Wu and ended this unsightly spar.

“Are you done treating him?” he asked.

Su Xiaoxiao nodded. “Her nephew's illness is fine. He'll recover after taking a few pills.”

Su Cheng scratched his head. “Oh, is she alright? She looked very sad just now.”

Su Xiaoxiao said, “It's fine. Let's go back, Dad.”

“Deal!

The family returned to Pear Blossom Lane.

The oil at home was gone, so Wei Ting and Su Xiaoxiao went out to buy it.

Just as they were about to rest, Bai Xihe came.

It was Su Cheng who opened the door.

Su Cheng asked, “Madam Bai, it's so late. What's the matter?”

“Ah, are you here to get medicine for your nephew?”

Bai Xihe opened her mouth and suddenly covered her lower abdomen. She fell to the ground in pain.

“Madam Bai! Madam .

Su Cheng looked at Bai Xihe, who was curled up in pain and was at a loss.

However, at the thought that she was his daughter's patient, he still helped her in.

“The lamp oil at home is gone. It's quite dark. Sit for a while. My daughter and son-in-law will buy the lamp oil back later.”

“I'm fine,” Bai Xihe said weakly.

Su Cheng said, “How can you be fine? You're in so much pain… Are you injured?” Bai Xihe said weakly, “I'm not injured..

“Then you…” Su Cheng was halfway through his question when he understood something. He cleared his throat and turned to go to the kitchen. A cooking fire rose in the kitchen, its flames illuminating the narrow space.

Bai Xihe casually glanced at the man who was busy at the stove and slowly lowered her eyes.

The night was very dark and the night wind was gentle.

About half an hour later, Su Cheng brought her a bowl of steaming brown sugar ginger tea with a few red-skinned peanuts and red dates.

Bai Xihe had severe menstrual cramps and drank brown sugar water in the palace, but no one would use so many ingredients.

It was not that one could not afford to add those items, but most did not think of adding them at all.

“Is it Physician Su's prescription?” she asked.

Su Cheng looked at the sugar water in her hand.

“You're talking about this? It's not a prescription. It's just that Daya's mother used to be like you. Every month… ahem, her tummy hurts. She only drank brown sugar water, but she found it greasy and added ginger. She also found it spicy. Later on, I added some red dates and red-skinned peanuts, and she liked to drink it.”

Su Cheng was a culinary idiot who could roast sweet potatoes into dark cuisine, but the brown sugar ginger tea stewed for his wife had an unforgettable taste.

Su Xiaoxiao and Wei Ting returned home after buying lamp oil and realized that Bai Xihe was also there.

The two of them were very surprised.

They looked at her and then at Su Cheng.

Su Cheng said, “Madam Bai isn't feeling well, so she came to look for you.”

Su Xiaoxiao sniffed. “Dad, did you make brown sugar water?”

Su Cheng said, “That's right. Madam Bai… Ah, you bought the lamp oil, right?

I'll go hold the lamp!”

He carried a jar of lamp oil in his hand and left without looking back!

Bai Xihe looked at Su Xiaoxiao and Wei Ting indifferently. “You… actually want to know my relationship with Prince Nanyang, right? Alright, I'll tell you..”

Sorry for the inconvenience. Thank you very much!

Chapter 410

Wei Ting lit the oil lamp. The dim yellow light flickered on the three of their faces.

The central room was silent.

Bai Xihe lowered her eyes, her expression calm and cold.

Su Xiaoxiao didn't rush her, but she didn't wait long.

Bai Xihe said softly, “Prince Nanyang and I are innocent, whether you believe it or not.”

The room was silent again.

“Daughter! Eh? It's on!”

Su Cheng walked over with an oil lamp and looked at the almost dry oil lamp. He said, “Let's use this one. That one will be extinguished in a while.”

He placed the oil lamp in his hand on the table and took it to the kitchen to add
oil.

After the small interlude, the atmosphere between the few of them seemed to liven up.

“Have you liked Prince Nanyang?” Su Xiaoxiao asked bluntly.

Bai Xihe laughed self-deprecatingly. “With my status, am I qualified to say that I like him?”

Ever since she entered the palace at the age of 13, she clearly knew that she was destined to have no love in her life.

Perhaps it was even earlier, on the day she was treated as an adopted daughter by the Guo family, her fate was beyond her control.

She would not hope for those dangerous things.

Prince Nanyang might be the husband that all the women in the world dreamed of, but as a heartless person, it was impossible for her to be attracted to any man.

“Rumor has it that Prince Nanyang created a rebellion for me.”

Su Xiaoxiao didn't expect her to mention this.

“Why do men always put the blame on women when they do things? What does Prince Nanyang's rebellion have to do with me?”

After saying that calmly, she stood up expressionlessly and left the central room without looking back.

Su Xiaoxiao watched her walk to the backyard and muttered, “What a pitiful person.”

Wei Ting looked at her in disbelief. “Has the day finally arrived when you pity others?”

“I'm not heartless. I'm such a kind person…”

Su Xiaoxiao couldn't even continue to brag about this. She cleared her throat. “It's not sympathy. She doesn't need anyone's sympathy. She was sentimental, that's all.'

Wei Ting went to close the door of the central room.

Su Xiaoxiao looked at the closed central door and then at the brightly lit backyard. Her chubby hand scratched her head. “Wei Ting, I keep feeling that something is wrong.”

“Heh.” Wei Ting did not tell her and carried the oil lamp to the backyard.

Su Xiaoxiao followed him.

As she walked, the door to her room closed with a bang.

She woke up from a dream!

This was her room!

Yet Bai Xihe lived in it!

She came to the door in disbelief. “Madam Bai…”

Bai Xihe said, “I'm going to sleep.”

Su Xiaoxiao muttered, ” You didn't come to me to tell us about your relationship with the King of Nanyang, right? You're here to freeload, right!”

Bai Xihe stayed in Su Xiaoxiao's room, so Su Xiaoxiao could only go to Wei Ting.

“Dahu and the others…” Wei Ting's meaning was obvious. The three brats were not coming over?

Su Xiaoxiao snorted. “If you have the ability, knock on the Empress Dowager's door!”

Wei Ting naturally could not knock.

“Has she been here?” he asked.

Looking at Bai Xi and her familiar appearance, it was obvious that this was not the first time.

Su Xiaoxiao said gloomily, “She lived there twice by a freak combination of factors. The second time, she bumped into Princess Jingning.”

The corners of Wei Ting's mouth twitched. What kind of luck is this?

Su Xiaoxiao felt that she had been tricked by Bai Xihe. She sat cross-legged on tne Dea ana nuggea tne pillow witn a Ditter expression.

Wei Ting walked over slowly.

“What?” Su Xiaoxiao asked angrily.

Wei Ting looked at her indifferently. “This is my bed. Why do you think I'm here?”

Su Xiaoxiao moved to the side.

Wei Ting turned off the oil lamp and began to take off his clothes.

Because she couldn't see, her hearing was infinitely magnified. The sound of breathing and the friction of clothes carried a faint ambiguity.

Su Xiaoxiao's throat was suddenly a little dry. She curled her lips and muttered, “You actually turned off the lights before taking off your clothes, making it look like I've not seen it before…

Wei Ting did not say anything and leaned down.

Su Xiaoxiao's chubby body stiffened.

Wei Ting walked over to her and slowly lay on the inside of the bed.

She liked to sleep outside.

She thought that something would happen to her, and her heart raced. In the end, nothing happened…

“You seem disappointed.”

Wei Ting's magnetic voice came from the darkness.

As he lay flat on his back, his tone was calm.

Su Xiaoxiao said solemnly, “You're the one who's disappointed. I don't want to touch you at all.”

Wei Ting closed his eyes calmly. “That's best.”

Su Xiaoxiao glared at a certain someone, swung the pillow, and lay down angrily.

She reached for his blanket. “1 don't have—”

Swoosh.

He casually threw a blanket over and covered Su Xiaoxiao from head to toe.

Su Xiaoxiao pulled down the blanket and revealed her head. Her face was ashen as she finished her unfinished words. “… blanket.”

Soon, even breathing came from Wei Ting.

His scent lingered at the tip of her nose, making Su Xiaoxiao feel that it smelled very good. Su Xiaoxiao called out to him, “Wei Ting.” No reaction.

She blinked and moved quietly to his side.

She moved again.

She shifted again.

She moved!

Finally, they were close.

In the darlmess, she widened her black eyes and blinked.

Then, she secretly stretched out two fingers and walked them toward him.

Swish.

Her fingers squeezed the corner of his blanket.

She pursed her lips and tugged gently.

Huh.

It didn't budge.

She changed places and continued to pull, but she still couldn't move at all.

Did this guy… wrap the blanket around himself?

Was there a need to be so wary of her?

He made it seem like she would do something to him…

Su Xiaoxiao rolled her eyes, wrapped herself in the blanket, and rolled away from him!

A moment later, she rolled back and lifted the blanket. She propped herself up on her elbows and looked at him without blinking.

If he did not let her take advantage of him, she would insist on taking advantage of him!

Su Xiaoxiao smiled evilly and approached him bit by bit.

“You want to be thrown down?”

Su Xiaoxiao shivered and slipped on her elbow, falling towards him.

Pop.

It was Wei Ting's slender hand that accurately pressed her forehead.

Su Xiaoxiao lay down with a dark expression and pulled the blanket over her head before falling asleep!

'My Lord!”

Yuchi Xiu uncovered a tile on the roof.

Wei Ting looked at the sleeping Su Xiaoxiao and covered her with the blanket.

“What's up?

He asked coldly.

Yuchi Xiu said, “Old Madam wants to see her great-grandsons.” Wei Ting thought of Bai Xihe next door. He paused and said, “Not tonight.”

“Oh, then I'll go back and report.” Yuchi Xiu had just covered the tile and removed it again. He looked in through the hole and said, “Sir, haven't you always slept together in the countryside? Why did you split the blanket? Does she despise you?”

Wei Ting looked at someone with a dark expression. “Do you want to die?”

Yuchi Xiu continued to court death. “Or are you getting more and more unable to control yourself? You're worried that if she touches you, you'll—” Swoosh!

Wei Ting coldly shot out a hidden weapon and Yuchi Xiu's hair stood on end!

Sorry for the inconvenience. Thank you very much!

Table of Contents

Chapter 1
Chapter 2
Chapter 3
Chapter 4
Chapter 5
Chapter 6
Chapter 7
Chapter 8
Chapter 9
Chapter 10
Chapter 11
Chapter 12
Chapter 13
Chapter 14
Chapter 15
Chapter 16
Chapter 17
Chapter 18
Chapter 19
Chapter 20
Chapter 21
Chapter 22
Chapter 23
Chapter 24
Chapter 25
Chapter 26
Chapter 27
Chapter 28
Chapter 29
Chapter 30
Chapter 31
Chapter 32
Chapter 33
Chapter 34
Chapter 35
Chapter 36
Chapter 37
Chapter 38
Chapter 39
Chapter 40
Chapter 41
Chapter 42
Chapter 43
Chapter 44
Chapter 45
Chapter 46
Chapter 47
Chapter 48
Chapter 49
Chapter 50
Chapter 51
Chapter 52
Chapter 53
Chapter 54
Chapter 55
Chapter 56
Chapter 57
Chapter 58
Chapter 59
Chapter 60
Chapter 61
Chapter 62
Chapter 63
Chapter 64
Chapter 65
Chapter 66
Chapter 67
Chapter 68
Chapter 69
Chapter 70
Chapter 71
Chapter 72
Chapter 73
Chapter 74
Chapter 75
Chapter 76
Chapter 77
Chapter 78
Chapter 79
Chapter 80
Chapter 81
Chapter 82
Chapter 83
Chapter 84
Chapter 85
Chapter 86
Chapter 87
Chapter 88
Chapter 89
Chapter 90
Chapter 91
Chapter 92
Chapter 93
Chapter 94
Chapter 95
Chapter 96
Chapter 97
Chapter 98
Chapter 99
Chapter 100
Chapter 101
Chapter 102
Chapter 103
Chapter 104
Chapter 105
Chapter 106
Chapter 107
Chapter 108
Chapter 109
Chapter 110
Chapter 111
Chapter 112
Chapter 113
Chapter 114
Chapter 115
Chapter 116
Chapter 117
Chapter 118
Chapter 119
Chapter 120
Chapter 121
Chapter 122
Chapter 123
Chapter 124
Chapter 125
Chapter 126
Chapter 127
Chapter 128
Chapter 129
Chapter 130
Chapter 131
Chapter 132
Chapter 133
Chapter 134
Chapter 135
Chapter 136
Chapter 137
Chapter 138
Chapter 139
Chapter 140
Chapter 141
Chapter 142
Chapter 143
Chapter 144
Chapter 145
Chapter 146
Chapter 147
Chapter 148
Chapter 149
Chapter 150
Chapter 151
Chapter 152
Chapter 153
Chapter 154
Chapter 155
Chapter 156
Chapter 157
Chapter 158
Chapter 159
Chapter 160
Chapter 161
Chapter 162
Chapter 163
Chapter 164
Chapter 165
Chapter 166
Chapter 167
Chapter 168
Chapter 169
Chapter 170
Chapter 171
Chapter 172
Chapter 173
Chapter 174
Chapter 175
Chapter 176
Chapter 177
Chapter 178
Chapter 179
Chapter 180
Chapter 181
Chapter 182
Chapter 183
Chapter 184
Chapter 185
Chapter 186
Chapter 187
Chapter 188
Chapter 189
Chapter 190
Chapter 191
Chapter 192
Chapter 193
Chapter 194
Chapter 195
Chapter 196
Chapter 197
Chapter 198
Chapter 199
Chapter 200
Chapter 201
Chapter 202
Chapter 203
Chapter 204
Chapter 205
Chapter 206
Chapter 207
Chapter 208
Chapter 209
Chapter 210
Chapter 211
Chapter 212
Chapter 213
Chapter 214
Chapter 215
Chapter 216
Chapter 217
Chapter 218
Chapter 219
Chapter 220
Chapter 221
Chapter 222
Chapter 223
Chapter 224
Chapter 225
Chapter 226
Chapter 227
Chapter 228
Chapter 229
Chapter 230
Chapter 231
Chapter 232
Chapter 233
Chapter 234
Chapter 235
Chapter 236
Chapter 237
Chapter 238
Chapter 239
Chapter 240
Chapter 241
Chapter 242
Chapter 243
Chapter 244
Chapter 245
Chapter 246
Chapter 247
Chapter 248
Chapter 249
Chapter 250
Chapter 251
Chapter 252
Chapter 253
Chapter 254
Chapter 255
Chapter 256
Chapter 257
Chapter 258
Chapter 259
Chapter 260
Chapter 261
Chapter 262
Chapter 263
Chapter 264
Chapter 265
Chapter 266
Chapter 267
Chapter 268
Chapter 269
Chapter 270
Chapter 271
Chapter 272
Chapter 273
Chapter 274
Chapter 275
Chapter 276
Chapter 277
Chapter 278
Chapter 279
Chapter 280
Chapter 281
Chapter 282
Chapter 283
Chapter 284
Chapter 285
Chapter 286
Chapter 287
Chapter 288
Chapter 289
Chapter 290
Chapter 291
Chapter 292
Chapter 293
Chapter 294
Chapter 295
Chapter 296
Chapter 297
Chapter 298
Chapter 299
Chapter 300
Chapter 301
Chapter 302
Chapter 303
Chapter 304
Chapter 305
Chapter 306
Chapter 307
Chapter 308
Chapter 309
Chapter 310
Chapter 311
Chapter 312
Chapter 313
Chapter 314
Chapter 315
Chapter 316
Chapter 317
Chapter 318
Chapter 319
Chapter 320
Chapter 321
Chapter 322
Chapter 323
Chapter 324
Chapter 325
Chapter 326
Chapter 327
Chapter 328
Chapter 329
Chapter 330
Chapter 331
Chapter 332
Chapter 333
Chapter 334
Chapter 335
Chapter 336
Chapter 337
Chapter 338
Chapter 339
Chapter 340
Chapter 341
Chapter 342
Chapter 343
Chapter 344
Chapter 345
Chapter 346
Chapter 347
Chapter 348
Chapter 349
Chapter 350
Chapter 351
Chapter 352
Chapter 353
Chapter 354
Chapter 355
Chapter 356
Chapter 357
Chapter 358
Chapter 359
Chapter 360
Chapter 361
Chapter 362
Chapter 363
Chapter 364
Chapter 365
Chapter 366
Chapter 367
Chapter 368
Chapter 369
Chapter 370
Chapter 371
Chapter 372
Chapter 373
Chapter 374
Chapter 375
Chapter 376
Chapter 377
Chapter 378
Chapter 379
Chapter 380
Chapter 381
Chapter 382
Chapter 383
Chapter 384
Chapter 385
Chapter 386
Chapter 387
Chapter 388
Chapter 389
Chapter 390
Chapter 391
Chapter 392
Chapter 393
Chapter 394
Chapter 395
Chapter 396
Chapter 397
Chapter 398
Chapter 399
Chapter 400
Chapter 401
Chapter 402
Chapter 403
Chapter 404
Chapter 405
Chapter 406
Chapter 407
Chapter 408
Chapter 409
Chapter 410